Trumpeter Swans Arrive on Kempenfelt Bay

 Trumpeters make southern trip to  Barrie area on Lake Simcoe

Festival of Lights & Christmas Break Camps

Festival of Lights

Ski Instructor Kids

Festival of Lights
month of December 2011
The Farmer's Market provides a comfortable, indoor environment for consumers and farmers to buy and sell farm fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and other agricultural products. Local musicians and other entertainers on site providing a festive atmosphere.Vendors operate their own booths and consumers get a chance to meet and ask questions direct of growers.
Festival of Lights website info
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Sudbury, ON

Christmas Lights Across Canada’s Capital Region
December 1, 2011 - January 7, 2012
Parliament Hill, 20 NCC sites and over 60 other sites along Confederation Boulevard will sparkle with more than 300,000 dazzling lights during the Holiday Season.  On opening night, join us on Parliament Hill at 6pm for the illumination ceremony.
Christmas Lights Across Canada website info
stay at , resorts, inns, hotels Ottawa, ON    Ottawa hotels on-line

Festival of Northern Lights Catch The Magic
Owen Sound
November 18, 2011 to January 3, 2012
Owen Sound has a History of Local resident Sally Sargent was quoted in a past Sun Times article as saying it was fairly easy to determine who worked for Noma Lites during the 1950s and early '60s in Owen Sound. “You'd be able to drive down the street and see all of the homes all lit up with lights and you would know they worked at Noma. . . . You'd almost have to wear sunglasses when you went by some of the houses.”
Festival of Northern Lights web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Owen Sound, ON

Barrie Festival of Trees Continues to Spring 2012
Barrie lights up along Kempenfelt Bay's Lakeshore Drive on Lake Simcoe through until the spring of 2012. See the Barrie Festival of Trees and Lights Photo gallery where some of the 50,000 lights which form the Festival of Trees Display at Centennial Park will be five animated displays. A Barrie shopping trip for Christmas New Year  holiday gifts could involve an overnight stay in featured Barrie hotels, resorts and romantic inns.

Upper Canada Village's Alight at Night Festival
Morrisburg, ON
December 2, 2011-January 7, 2012
Stroll around historic Upper Canada Village, adorned with a quarter million lights. Horse-drawn wagons, carriage rides for two, Toy Train rides for kids of all ages, skating, dining, shopping &more!
Upper Canada’s Village web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa, ON  Ottawa hotels on-line

 

Ice Candle - Festival of Lights
Kenora, ON
December 24-26, 2011
A unique celebration of life and love. Ice candles stay lit from Christmas Eve through to Boxing Day (December 24-26).
Ice Canada Festival of Lights info

Kenora Hotels on-line

Winter Wonderland
Newmarket, ON
December 9 - 31, 2011
Marvel at holiday light displays and take a free train ride.  Lights on nightly from 6 to 9pm Enjoy a train ride on Tim Hortons Express. Train dates TBA. Weather permitting. Free.
Newmarket Winter Wonderland info

Newmarket Hotels on-line

 

Christmas Break Camps

MacLaren Art Centre

Barrie, ON
December 27, 2011 -January 6,  2012

Cool Yule and Winter Break Arts Camps for children run from December 27 to January 6. 

MacLaren Art Centre Cool Yule Art Camp info

MacLaren Art Centre Winter Break Art Camp info

stay at resorts, inns, hotels Barrie, ON

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre

Midland, ON

December 27 - 30, 2011& January 2-6, 2012

Looking for something fun, active and local for your kids to do on Winter Break. The Wye Marsh keeps things natural, for kids ages 6-12; we provide activities such as Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, orienteering, GPS navigation, bannock roasting, live animal demonstrations (birds of prey, reptiles and amphibians, trumpeter swans), feeding chickadees and crafts.

Wye Marsh Winter Break Camp Info

stay at resorts, inns, hotels Midland, ON

Sirs Sam Ski & Bike

Haliburton, ON

Christmas and New Year's Ski Camps
December 27, 2011 - January 6, 2012
Sir Sam's Ski & Bike offers special Christmas and New Year's Ski Camps from December 27, 2011- January 6, 2012.

Sir Sam's Ski Camp info

stay at resorts, inns, hotels Haliburton, ON

Weekend Getaways Ontario Travel December Getaway North of Toronto

Romantic Getaway of the Week Pine Vista Resort - Lakefield, Ontario Pine Vista Resort - Re-connect and rekindle your romance with this amazing Couple’s Getaway. Couples will enjoy…Two nights accommodation in a one bedroom townhouse with full kitchen and deck with BBQ. Enjoy a two person whirlpool bath, wood burning fireplace and satellite TV. Complimentary bottle of wine. Treat your special someone to a therapeutic massage for pampering and relaxation.  Saturday appts only. Mid-week ~ $265/couple or Weekend ~ $315/couple  (Taxes are additional) Time together can be spent enjoying all resort facilities including our indoor hot tub, “Hot Tub Under the Stars”, 8 km of hike nature trails, toboggan hill, skating rink, games room and a variety of recreation equipment and more! Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto

Spa Getaway of the Week Best Western Mariposa Inn & Conference Centre - Orillia, Ontario Best Western Mariposa Inn & Conference Centre - Spa package includes: One Night Accommodation in a Traditional Room (Upgraded Suite if Available) Dinner in the Grape & Olive Wine & Martini Bistro and a $75.00 Voucher for the Caravan Inn & Spa. Package Starting at $169.50 per person per night Price per room; subject to availability; based on double occupancy; applicable taxes and gratuities not included Spa Getaways north of Toronto

Family Getaway of the Week Ruby's Cottage Resort & B&B - Algonquin Highlands, Ontario Ruby's Cottage Resort & B&B - Small lakefront Cottage Resort & B&B on Boshkung Lake in Haliburton County. Some cottages with woodstoves (one cottage with private hot tub). Also B&B Suite with personal hot tub. On site games room with satellite TV & ping-pong table, wireless high speed internet, central hot tub room. Dogsledding, cross-country & downhill ski, snowshoeing, snowmobiling trails, all nearby. Complimentary use of snowshoes & cross-country skis. We are 2.5 hours drive from Toronto Family Getaways in resort destinations

Seasonal December Getaway of the Week The Rosseau, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa - Minett, Ontario The Rosseau, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa - Family Fun Getaway in Muskokac. Treat the family to a special getaway this holiday season at The Rosseau, A JW Marriott Resort & Spa! Rates from:   $199.00 - $379.00 CAD. Valid Through:   January 8, 2012. PROMOTIONAL CODE:  FML Offer includes:  Accommodation in luxurious studio or one-bedroom suite with fireplaces and spa-inspired bathrooms in all guest rooms.  Daily breakfast for two adults and up to two children under 12 years. Resort activities for two adults and two children (based on availability): Guided nature/snowshoe hikes (scheduled times).  Wild Muskoka demonstration (when offered).  Astronomy (weather permitting).  Complimentary s'mores family pack December Getaways north in Ontario

Weekend Getaway of the Week Moulin Wakefield Mill - Wakefield, (Greater Ottawa Area), Ontario Moulin Wakefield Mill - Winter Tube Sliding Package. December 26, 2011 -March 31, 2012. Package includes: 1 night stay. Table d'hôte dinner. Full country breakfast. Gratuities on the meals. Use of outdoor hot tub. 1 Day Tube Sliding Pass at Ski Edelweiss. From $170.00 per person. All rates are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Winter Getaway of the Week The Cranberry Resort - Collingwood, ON The Couples Resort - Home for the Holidays Package. Booking for December 24th or 25th arrival. Package includes: One night accommodation. Christmas Day brunch for two. Package starting at $170.00 per night, per room, subject to availability; based on double occupancy; applicable taxes and gratuities not included; subject to change without notice. Click here for availability and rates Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Ontario Attraction Getaway of the Week Muskoka Wildlife Centre - Severn Bridge, Ontario Muskoka Wildlife Centre - A 100 acre wildlife park, featuring exhibits of live animals including moose, wolves, eagles, bears and much more. Everyday, enjoy "Meet the Creature" presentations. Located 20 minutes north of Orillia, right on Highway 11 North. OPEN WEEKENDS ALL YEAR! October 12, 2011 - May Victoria Day Weekend 2012 Weekends 12 pm - 5 pm May Long Weekend to October Long Weekend, 2012 Daily 10 am - 6 pm Admission:Adults $13.75 Teens/Seniors $11.75 Children $10.75 Family (2 adults + up to 3 children) $49.00 (2 and under are free) Ontario Attractions north of Toronto

Ontario Resort Destination of the Week Township of Georgian Bay (http://www.gbtownship.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp) Discover Ontario's Gateway to the HistoricTrent-Severn Waterway and Georgian Bay's 30,000 Islands.  Georgian Bay Townships is part of the new Biosphere Reserve, and has access to Georgian Bay Islands National Park.  Parks Canada information centre is located at Lock 45 in Port Severn.The Muskoka Tourism Information Centre is located at Highway 400 and Muskoka Road 5.  Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

Ontario Ski Resorts Open for 2011-12 Season

Ontario Travel Centre News – Horseshoe Valley and Hardwood Ski and Bike are open today.

Kids ready for 2011-12 Ski Season

Horseshoe Valley has opened today with 2 lifts, 2 runs and a mostly man-made snow base of 40cm. They are offering a $25 lift ticket for the next few days and for those with night ski passes – they can ski during the day until night skiing opens (which they hope will be this Friday) They have listed on their website that they hope to continue to operate daily for the rest of the season as long as the weather holds. Please check the website before heading out or before providing information for skiers who are asking.
http://horseshoeresort.com/site/winter.html


Hardwood Ski and Bike Centre – just north of Barrie has had their cross country trails open for a few days now and they continue to be open for those that wish to get that first Nordic outing of the season in early. You can get the latest details on conditions by consulting their website. Please check before heading out.
http://www.hardwoodhills.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=111&Itemid=57

Loch Lomond Ski Resort in Thunder Bay has already been open for downhill skiing on weekends. They are not open today but do plan to re-open mid week. Please check their website for the latest details.  http://www.lochlomond.ca/


Get more Ontario Travel news and updates on winter festivals, events, ski packages and getaways north of Toronto.

Featured Santa Claus Train Rides, Festivals of Trees & Lights & Christmas Craft Shows December 16-18, 2011

Santa Claus Train Rides

A Portage Flyer Christmas - Evening train ride to Santa 
at Muskoka Heritage Place
Huntsville, ON
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Time to be confirmed closer to the event.
$5.00 per person
An evening of magic with all the joy & hope, sparkle, twinkle & dazzle of the festive season Last chance to tell Santa your side of the story!
Muskoka Heritage Place web site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Huntsville, ON

Santa Claus Express South Simcoe Railway (Tottenham)
Share the Magic of Christmas... ride the SANTA CLAUS EXPRESS!
Saturday December 3rd and Sunday December 4th
Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th
Saturday December 17th and Sunday December 18th
Advance reservations available
Departures at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm and 2:30pm. Special event fares apply. Tickets on sale November 1st either on-line or by telephone.
South Simcoe Railway website 
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Alliston, ON

Festival of Lights

Festival of Lights
month of December 2011
The Farmer's Market provides a comfortable, indoor environment for consumers and farmers to buy and sell farm fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and other agricultural products. Local musicians and other entertainers on site providing a festive atmosphere.Vendors operate their own booths and consumers get a chance to meet and ask questions direct of growers.
Festival of Lights website info
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Sudbury, ON

Christmas Lights Across Canada’s Capital Region
December 1, 2011 - January 7, 2012
Parliament Hill, 20 NCC sites and over 60 other sites along Confederation Boulevard will sparkle with more than 300,000 dazzling lights during the Holiday Season.  On opening night, join us on Parliament Hill at 6pm for the illumination ceremony.
Christmas Lights Across Canada website info
stay at , resorts, inns, hotels Ottawa, ON    Ottawa hotels on-line


Festival of Northern Lights Catch The Magic
Owen Sound
November 18, 2011 to January 3, 2012
Owen Sound has a History of Local resident Sally Sargent was quoted in a past Sun Times article as saying it was fairly easy to determine who worked for Noma Lites during the 1950s and early '60s in Owen Sound. “You'd be able to drive down the street and see all of the homes all lit up with lights and you would know they worked at Noma. . . . You'd almost have to wear sunglasses when you went by some of the houses.”
Festival of Northern Lights web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Owen Sound, ON

Barrie Festival of Trees Continues to Spring 2012
Barrie lights up along Kempenfelt Bay's Lakeshore Drive on Lake Simcoe through until the spring of 2012. See the Barrie Festival of Trees and Lights Photo gallery where some of the 50,000 lights which form the Festival of Trees Display at Centennial Park will be five animated displays. A Barrie shopping trip for Christmas New Year  holiday gifts could involve an overnight stay in featured Barrie hotels, resorts and romantic inns.

Upper Canada Village's Alight at Night Festival
Morrisburg, ON
December 2, 2011-January 7, 2012
Stroll around historic Upper Canada Village, adorned with a quarter million lights. Horse-drawn wagons, carriage rides for two, Toy Train rides for kids of all ages, skating, dining, shopping &more!
Upper Canada’s Village web Site
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa, ON  Ottawa hotels on-line

Christmas Craft Shows &Bazaars

Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Show
Ottawa, ON  Lansdowne Park
December 8 – 18, 2011
Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Sale is a leading and oldest fashion, gift, art & craft Show & Sale in Canada. It will attract many visitors and best artisans, artists and designers from Ottawa and Canada to related Christmas decorations, fashions, jewellery, art, sculpture, home decor items.
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa, ON, Ottawa hotels on-line

Weekend Getaways Ontario Travel December Getaway North of Toronto

The weekly getaways listed below are perfect for a romantic weekend or a December getaway pick for your family Christmas New Year's Vacation.  Pick some of the best travel deals & experiences in resort destinations around Toronto and north in Ontario.

Romantic Getaway of the Week Christie's Mill Inn & Spa - Port Severn, Ontario Christie's Mill Inn & Spa - The Midweek Madness and Weekender Package: Escape the everyday routine with this two night vacation sure to rejuvenate and refresh! Pamper your palate with the wonderful cuisine served complete with amazing waterfront views. Complete your stay with a visit to the spa or just unwind in a Muskoka chair on the dock and soak up the scenery. This package includes two nights accommodation, breakfast both mornings and dinner one evening. Spa services are additional. Starting at $334.00 per couple for Midweek Madness  $348 for the Weekender* Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto

Spa Getaway of the Week Briars Resort & Spa - Jacksons Point, Ontario Briars Resort & Spa - Soul Sisters Getaway: Add $50 to any overnight stay Designed with you and your soul sisters in mind. Share your dreams and relive great moments. Enhance any overnight stay with this wonderful welcome. It includes a delectable tray of treats, a bottle of wine, Spa gift and a cosy Spa robe to wear in your room and each Soul Sister gets a 1/2 hour manicure! (Please book your manicure appointment well before your arrival.) Talk the night away in your own inn guestroom, private cottage or lodge. Package includes: Overnight accommodation. Dinner, breakfast and lunch. Use of spa robe. ½ hour manicure. Arrival treats in your room. Spa gift. Resort activities such as yoga, guided nature and historical walks, power walks etc., based on activities schedule. Spa Getaways north of Toronto

Family Getaway of the Week The Irwin Inn - Lakefield, Ontario The Irwin Inn - New Year's Sparkling Reflections: Bring in the new! A season of sparkle culminates with a year ending and another beginning! Look forward to a fresh new year. Soft jazz, champagne & canapé reception, five course dining, truffles and rose, are part of your celebration. Ring in the New Year privately in your deluxe suite or cottage with fireplace, whirlpool or private hot tub. Relax to the warmth of a crackling fire. Seasonal activities, weather permitting. NEW YEARS PACKAGE RATES December 30, 2011 to January 2, 2012 2 nights from $300-$500 per person,  Breakfast and Dinner Daily Included Family Getaways in resort destinations

Seasonal December Getaway of the Week Nottawasaga Inn Resort - Gowganda, Ontario Nottawasaga Inn Resort - Christmas Getaways Nottawasaga Resort is the perfect holiday getaway destination!  The end of the year is quickly approaching and it's time to start thinking about your holiday plans.  We have a whole line-up of family activities planned over the Christmas holidays that the whole family will enjoy!  For more details on great packages we have available please visit our website. New Year's Eve Grand Gala Celebration Ring in the New Year at our Burlesque themed Gala. The stage is set in true style, with hints of vintage burlesque infused within the red and black adorned room. Our celebration includes a welcome reception, gourmet buffet feast, wine with dinner, live burlesque entertainment, live band, late night snack buffet, champagne toast at midnight and more!  Click to view our Early Booking Bonuses outlined in our brochure.  2 Night Package from $177.* pp/nt/dbl • 1 Night Package from $243.* pp/nt/dbl • Gala Only from $139. December Getaways north in Ontario

Weekend Getaway of the Week Clarion Resort Pinewood Park - North Bay, Ontario Clarion Resort Pinewood Park - Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding Package For avid skiers and riders who hold the secret to loving winter, or those that want to learn the secret, come discover North Bay's very own Ski Hill. Our Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding Package includes your accommodations, a full hot chef-cooked plated breakfast, 3-course plated dinner per person in our very own Explore Your Senses dining room as well as your Adult full day rate lift rate. Starting at $259.99* *Plus HST. Based on Double Occupancy in a Standard Room with 2 Queen Sized Beds. Upgrades are available. Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Winter Getaway of the Week The Couples Resort -Algonquin Park-Whitney, ON The Couples Resort “Romance should always be so Tempting.”Winter from $76 per person. Accommodation has extra large Jacuzzi in-front of the Wood Fireplace. Hot tub Accommodation Extra. 1st Class Gourmet Dining. 5 Course Dinners Awarded a Top 10 Dining Experience by North American Inns.The Couples Resort, where 40 Huskies are Ready to Run! This Winter Mush your own Dog Sleigh (Guided) at Algonquin Park. We are out everyday and we are having fun. Come on up and try this unique experience. Rides are $98pp.midweek (xmas new years week and march break at $120pp) and $128pp weekends. Horseback riding this winter is also available here at Algonquin Park. Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Ontario Attraction Getaway of the Week Hardwood Ski and Bike - Oro Station, Ontario             Hardwood Ski and Bike - The Hardwood Holiday Hustle will be held on December 17th and is part of a weekend of competitive and fun racing.   The second day of the weekend features the Highlands Trailblazers Race Society’s annual Yuletide Ski Blast. The Hardwood race is a free technique races for all ages including novices Demo Day - December 17, 2011 Come and try out the latest from Fischer, Rossignol and Salomon equipment before you buy.  You can take the skis out for approximately 30 minutes and that lets everyone have a chance to try what’s new.  No other special requirements other than a trail pass. Ontario Attractions north of Toronto

Ontario Resort Destination of the Week Municipality of Magnetawan (http://www.magnetawan.com/) The Municipality of Magnetawan is located in the District of Parry Sound between Parry Sound and Burk's Falls. With a population of approximately 1300, Magnetawan is a beautiful, natural area boasting the Magnetawan River and many scenic lakes. From its headwaters in Algonquin Park, the Magnetawan River flows through lakes, rapids and waterfalls as it winds its way to Georgian Bay. The historic lift locks, located in the Village of Magnetawan opened in 1886, making this one of the oldest colonized areas in the Parry Sound District. St. George the Martyr Anglican Church was painted in 1933 by A.J. Casson of the Group of Seven. Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

Featured Santa Claus Parades, Festivals of Trees & Lights & Christmas Craft Shows December 9-11, 2011

 Santa Claus Parades 

Bobcaygeon Santa Claus Parade
Bobcaygeon, Ontario

December 10, 2011  5pm
Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce web Site 
Stay at inns, resorts, hotels in Kawarthas, Ontario

Baysville Santa Claus Parade
Baysville , Ontario
December 11, 2011   1 pm
Tourism Bracebridge website
Stay at inns, resorts, hotels in Bracebridge, ON Bracebridge hotels on-line

Maynooth Santa Claus Parade
December 10, 2011 5pm
Theme: Brighten the Night  The Veterans have arranged a kid's party with a very special appearance beginning after the parade
Maynooth santa claus parade info
stay at inns, resorts, hotels Maynooth, ON

Carp Santa Claus Parade
December 10, 2011 12pm
Christmas in Ottawa website
stay at inns, resorts, hotels Ottawa, ON

Santa Claus Express South Simcoe Railway (Tottenham)
Share the Magic of Christmas... ride the SANTA CLAUS EXPRESS!
Saturday December 3rd and Sunday December 4th
Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th
Saturday December 17th and Sunday December 18th
Advance reservations available
Departures at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm and 2:30pm. Special event fares apply. Tickets on sale November 1st either on-line or by telephone.
South Simcoe Railway website 
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Alliston, ON


Festival of Trees & Lights

Festival of Lights
Sudbury, ON
month of December 2011
The Farmer's Market provides a comfortable, indoor environment for consumers and farmers to buy and sell farm fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and other agricultural products. Local musicians and other entertainers on site providing a festive atmosphere.Vendors operate their own booths and consumers get a chance to meet and ask questions direct of growers.
Festival of Lights website info
stay at resorts, inn, hotels  Sudbury, ON

Christmas Lights Across Canada’s Capital Region
December 1, 2011 - January 7, 2012
Parliament Hill, 20 NCC sites and over 60 other sites along Confederation Boulevard will sparkle with more than 300,000 dazzling lights during the Holiday Season.  On opening night, join us on Parliament Hill at 6pm for the illumination ceremony. 

Christmas Lights Across Canada website info

stay at inns, resorts, hotels Ottawa, ON    Ottawa hotels on-line

Festival of Northern Lights Catch The Magic
Owen Sound
November 18, 2011 to January 3, 2012
Owen Sound has a History of Local resident Sally Sargent was quoted in a past Sun Times article as saying it was fairly easy to determine who worked for Noma Lites during the 1950s and early '60s in Owen Sound. “You'd be able to drive down the street and see all of the homes all lit up with lights and you would know they worked at Noma. . . . You'd almost have to wear sunglasses when you went by some of the houses.”
Festival of Northern Lights web Site 
stay at inns, resorts, hotels  Owen Sound, ON

Barrie Festival of Trees Continues to Spring 2012
Barrie lights up along Kempenfelt Bay's Lakeshore Drive on Lake Simcoe through until the spring of 2012. See the Barrie Festival of Trees and Lights Photo gallery where some of the 50,000 lights which form the Festival of Trees Display at Centennial Park will be five animated displays. A Barrie shopping trip for Christmas New Year  holiday gifts could involve an overnight stay in featured Barrie hotels, resorts and romantic inns.


Christmas Craft Shows & Bazaars

Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Show
Ottawa, ON  Lansdowne Park
December 8 – 18, 2011
Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Sale is a leading and oldest fashion, gift, art & craft Show & Sale in Canada. It will attract many visitors and best artisans, artists and designers from Ottawa and Canada to related Christmas decorations, fashions, jewellery, art, sculpture, home decor items.
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa, ON, Ottawa hotels on-line

 Events

Friends of the Simcoe County Museum present

‘Christmas, Past and Present’ Fundraising Event
Minesing, ON

December 8 and 9, 2011   6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Experience the joys of the season during Christmas, Past and Present at the Simcoe County Museum, December 8^th and 9^th, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

 Step into our heritage buildings lit by lanterns to hear Christmas stories of Simcoe County’s past.  Make mice mints and decorate a gingerbread cookie to take home.  Take a horse-drawn wagon ride and listen to the sound of sleigh bells ringing on a crisp winter night.  During your journey, sit for a while beside the fire as you discover the origins of the first Christmas tree.  With horses, lanterns, stories, festive music, crafts and a decorated tree competition, this event is guaranteed to get even the ‘Grinch’ into the holiday spirit.   

Simcoe County Museum website
stay at resorts, inn, hotels Barrie, ON

Weekend Getaways Ontario Travel December Getaway North of Toronto

The weekly getaways listed below are perfect for a romantic weekend or a December getaway pick for your family Christmas New Year's Vacation.  Pick some of the best travel deals & experiences in resort destinations around Toronto and north in Ontario. .

Romantic Getaway of the Week Pine Vista Resort - Lakefield, Ontario Pine Vista Resort - Re-connect and rekindle your romance with this amazing Couple’s Getaway. Couples will enjoy… Two nights accommodation in a one bedroom townhouse with full kitchen and deck with BBQ. Enjoy a two person whirlpool bath, wood burning fireplace and satellite TV. Complimentary bottle of wine. Treat your special someone to a therapeutic massage for pampering and relaxation.  Saturday appts only. Mid-week ~ $265/couple or Weekend ~ $315/couple  (Taxes are additional). Time together can be spent enjoying all resort facilities including our indoor hot tub, “Hot Tub Under the Stars”, 8 km of hike nature trails, toboggan hill, skating rink, games room and a variety of recreation equipment and more! A wonderful gift for a Birthday, Anniversary or Honeymoon.   Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto

Spa Getaway of the Week Hockley Valley Resort - Orangeville, Ontario Hockley Valley Resort - Just For You, You’re Invited... Bring a friend & enjoy a day at The Spa. December Spa Promotion. Festive Holiday Escape. 80 min | $129 pp Enjoy a full body relaxation massage using warmed oil with a hint of frankincense and myrrh followed by a decadent hot oil scalp treatment ending with a holiday peppermint foot scrub.  Afterwards relax by the fire in our newly renovated lounge while sipping festive mulled wine. (Great to Enjoy side by side in ourspecial couples suite) Spa Getaways north of Toronto

Family Getaway of the Week The Norsemen Restaurant & Walker Lake Resort - Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Norsemen-Walker Lake Resort A relaxing all-season resort nestled in the woods on beautiful Walker Lake in Muskoka - Lake of Bays. Located just 15 minutes from Huntsville and Algonquin Park but a million miles from it all. Seven lakeside cottages offer privacy and great views of the lake, some with Jacuzzi tubs and wood stoves. The Norsemen is a great choice for an intimate and cozy retreat. Relax in your secluded cottage, cuddle by the wood-burning stove while you gaze at the lake, then soak in the Jacuzzi tub.  The two and three bedroom cottages all have kitchens, bathroom, living room, and a screened porch or deck.   Family Getaways in resort destinations

Seasonal December Getaway of the Week Auld Reekie Lodge - Gowganda, Ontario Auld Reekie Lodge - Centrally located between Shining Tree and Elk Lake right on the A107C Trail, we offer the finest in accommodations, meals and service.  Warm up by the fire in our licensed dining room, stay in one our superior accommodations and enjoy our very large outdoor hot tub.  Come in and experience why Auld Reekie is the #1 choice for sledders.Our Snowmobiler's Package is $95.00 per person per night and includes 3 course dinner, superior  accommodation and full hot breakfast. Retail Gas and Oil, limited repairs and service available on site and full repairs nearby. December Getaways north in Ontario

Weekend Getaway of the Week Moulin Wakefield Mill - Emsdale, Ontario Moulin Wakefield Mill - 1 Night Cross Country Ski Getaway December 1 - March 31, 2012 Package includes:  1 night stay.  Table d'hôte dinner. Full country breakfast.  Gratuities on the meals.  Use of outdoor hot tub.  1 Day Gatineau Park Pass. From $167.00 per person All rates per person, based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. 2 Night Cross Country Ski Getaway December 1 - March 31, 2012 Package includes:  2 nights. 1 Table d'hôte dinner.  2 Full country breakfast.  Gratuities on the meals.  Use of outdoor hot tub.  1 Day Gatineau Park Pass. From $262.00 per person. All rates per person, based on double occupancy and subject to change without notice. Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Winter Getaway of the Week Carriage Ridge Resort at Horseshoe Valley - Shanty Bay (Barrie), ON Carriage Ridge Resort - Located only 1 hour north of Toronto, our winter deals can’t be beat!  Carriage Ridge Resort offers spacious Ski-in Ski-out condo-suites on the ridge of Horseshoe Ski runs.  Plus… we are only 15 min’s from Mount St Louis Moonstone – a true skier’s paradise with the best snow-making in Ontario.Pool, hot tub and on-site activities 7 days a week!  Awarded TripAdvisor.com TOP 10 – CANADA for Families and Bargains in 2011Book your ski vacation and discounted pass rates now! Winter Getaways north of Toronto

Ontario Attraction Getaway of the Week Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Midland, Ontario Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Wye Marsh offers the opportunity to discover the secrets of a wetland with the assistance of our dynamic naturalist staff. In the Spring, Summer and Fall look for life in the water during a guided canoe adventure or dip net from accessible boardwalks. You can enjoy the grace of the magnificent Trumpeter Swans. North America's largest waterfowl. Feed chickadees from your hand, spot wetland and woodland birds along easy-access trails and tour the interactive display hall (all handicapped accessible). There is always something fun and interactive to do in every season; maple syrup harvest in spring, family programs all summer and many special events. In winter the Marsh offers cross-country skiing on more than 22 km of beautiful groomed and track-set trails. Join us for a snow shoeing trek on 10KM of picturesque hiking trails. Ontario Attractions north of Toronto

Ontario Resort Destination of the Week Lake Simcoe (http://www.400eleven.com/lakesimcoe.html) Lake Simcoe is Toronto's close to home resort destination. It is the first major lake north of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and has often been described as the "Sixth Great Lake". Lake Simcoe is linked to the Great Lakes through the Trent-Severn Historic Waterway to Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. The two largest cities on Lake Simcoe are Barrie, and Orillia both with substantial public marinas, beaches and waterfront parks. Simcoe County, York Region, Durham, and Kawartha Lakes all touch on Lake Simcoe. Many say Lake Simoce is the Ice Fishing Capital of North America. See Lake Simcoe Ontario Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

Christmas & Holiday Shopping North in South Simcoe County via Highway 400

Picture windows at night always a Christmas treat

Holiday shopping close to home is akin to the 100 mile diet.  A recent trip to South Simcoe County including Allitston and Cookstown, offered up an opportunity for some early Christmas shopping with some made in Canada items.  Surprising locations and boutique stores drew our attention and interest even though the notion of shopping was not a primary purpose of the visit.



Kudos to:  In Alliston,  Details on Victoria Street as well as Brenda Roy Jewellery and in Cookstown  Cabo Clothing & Accessories on Queen Street.

Location and Accommodation

Both Victoria Street and Queen street are part of Highway 89 quickly found off of Highway 400 heading west. We recommend a shop and stay holiday in this area with overnight accommodation at Nottawasaga Inn Resort, or the Red Pine Inn in Alliston.

Purchases:  Unfortunately some but not all  purchases were "made in Canada".

Christmas Vacation New Years 2011-12 Ontario Resort Travel Getaways North of Toronto Resorts

Christmas Vacation New Years 2011-12 Ontario Resort Travel Getaways North of Toronto Resorts:

Snowfamily in an Ontario Christmas Resort Wonderland

Ontario Christmas Getaways and Christmas Vacation updates in resort destinations north of Toronto. Christmas and New Years week 2011-2012 should provide a nice Christmas long weekend as December 25, and January 1, 2012 both fall on a Sunday.

What better way to celebrate the Christmas New Year week in a cottage country resort destination north of Toronto. Imagine the Christmas scene with romantic "Mistletoe" and a gift of a white Christmas Vacation.

Toronto cross-country skiing ace reaching new heights - thestar.com

Toronto cross-country skiing ace reaching new heights - thestar.com:

The story from the above link expresses an inspiring story for parents who might want to buy cross-country skis for their kids this Christmas. Cross country skiing is an easy sport to get into and get the kids off the computer.

Who knows.... perhaps you may even raise a champion. Visitors wanting more snow and challenging trails can try a winter getaway weekend or vacation in Ontario. There are more than a dozen cross-country ski packages available in resort destinations north of Toronto.

Bondi Village Cottage resort is one of the family fun resorts in Muskoka offering cross country skiing on site.  15 km of well groomed and track set cross-country ski trails begin right at your door,

Featured Weekend Events: Craft Shows & Bazaars December 2-4, 2011

Craft Show & Bazaars

8th Annual Holiday Treasures Arts and Crafts Show & Sale
Rosemont, ON   Dufferin Museum
November 18 – December 4, 2011Just in time for the holidays! Find one-of -a-kind items for everyone on your list, while you enjoy the atmosphere of the Museum at Christmastime. One stop shopping. Over 40 artists and artisans transform the Museum's Main Gallery into a seasonal show and sale of unique handcrafted gifts, perfect for the person who has everything. One-of-a-kind items include candlesticks, clothing, jewellery, baskets, two and three dimensional works of art, seasonal wreaths and decorations, wooden bowls and hooked rugs, candles, honey, bath products and much more!
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Alliston, ON

4th Annual Christmas Craft Show
Wasaga Beach, ON
December 3, 2011
Come to the Wasaga Beach RecPlex Hall 1! Gifts, Decorations and more!
stay at resorts, inns, hotels Wasaga Beach, ON

Petawawa Christmas Craft Show
Petawawa Civic Centre
December 4, 2011
Jewelry, Knitting & Gift Baskets
If you're looking for a special Christmas gift for that someone special, be sure to check out the Town of Petawawa Christmas Craft Show and Sale! Over 70 tables filled with handmade arts, crafts, woodworking, food and so much more! You won't leave empty handed from this annual show that brings out hundreds of shoppers from the Ottawa Valley!
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa area, Petawawa hotels on-line

Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Show
Ottawa, ON  Lansdowne Park
December 8 – 18, 2011Originals Ottawa Christmas Craft Sale is a leading and oldest fashion, gift, art & craft Show & Sale in Canada. It will attract many visitors and best artisans, artists and designers from Ottawa and Canada to related Christmas decorations, fashions, jewellery, art, sculpture, home decor items.
stay at resorts, inns, hotels  Ottawa, ON, Ottawa hotels on-line