Northeastern Ontario boasts some of the best places to host big events, no matter the size or aesthetic you’re looking for. For conferences, work parties, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and more—here is a list of some of the best places across the region to host your next big event!
Sometimes an event needs an epic backdrop and the Harbourfront Pavilion offers just that. Temiskaming Shores is arguably one of the most inviting and thriving communities in Northeastern Ontario, with exciting community-focused initiatives being spearheaded by passionate locals year-round—so it is not surprising that one of their best venues is a public community space.
This scenic pavilion, operated by the city of Temiskaming Shores, is located on the shores of Lake Temiskaming and is unique not only for its location but for its adaptability—it offers retractable curtains that can block out inclement weather, so events can proceed no matter what the weather. The space can accommodate 325 for a seated event or event requiring a liquor license and 900 for a standing event. The space also includes a small kitchen, with limited amenities, and some chairs and picnic tables are included with the rental. Music and media are also welcomed in this space, so an event can truly come to life whether that be with video presentation or music and dancing! Got an extra day to explore? Indulge in a food tour of the region to help you celebrate.
Located in scenic Sudbury, Natura Events and Catering facilitates one-of-a-kind events at Verdicchio Ristorante|Enoteca that can accommodate various event sizes and themes. The venue can host 200 guests for seated functions or 250 for cocktail-style parties and includes a gorgeous semi-sheltered patio which is perfect for an outdoor event. The rustic Italian aesthetic of this building provides the perfect backdrop and can be transformed to match a client’s desire. This family-owned business prides itself on its award-winning Italian cuisine and are champions within the local food movement. While the chefs at Natura specialize in modern Italian cuisine, they have worked and studied around the world and are keen to work with clients to create their dream menus, including accommodating any dietary restrictions. Verdicchio also boasts an excellent beverage program that supports local distilleries, breweries, and vineyards from the province, which will pair stunningly with both the venue and the cuisine.
Located smack-dab in the middle of a repurposed elementary school in North Bay, you will find a beautiful outdoor oasis that is the perfect location for your next outdoor event. Designed for collaboration, connection, and growth, the 176 coworking building offers a unique locale that provides all amenities needed to make your event a success.
The mixture of interlocking stone and green turf make for a level base for tents, tables, and chairs and allows for quick drying of the ground in the case of a pre-event rainfall. The scattered gardens and pathways along with many electrical outlets for lighting allow this space to be transformed from a relaxing daytime retreat to a romantic evening setting and can facilitate music and media presentations. Located across the hall from the main entrance from the courtyard into the building is The Cafe, which includes a full kitchen, and it can be utilized for catering and bar services preparation. Guests are also welcome to wander the halls of the building, where they will find the Nipissing Region Curatorial Collective (NRCC) Novah Art Gallery, a highlight of the coworking space. In the true spirit of collaboration, the building facilitators are more than happy to work with event coordinators to create a weather plan that works best for your event.
If you are interested in a venue that has an interesting history and a passionate staff, the Porcupine Dante Club in Timmins is an excellent choice. The Dante Club is an Italian restaurant and banquet hall that aims to preserve Italian culture in the Timmins region. The Dante Club’s story began in 1938, when it was originally a chapter of The Sons of Italy. After World War II, the Mascioli family, who ran a construction business in Timmins were looking for strong workers. And many Italian families came to Canada and Timmins to escape post-war Europe had family members who needed work. The Mascioli family and four other founding families began the Dante Club to help support the Italian immigrants who settled in the region.
This non-profit has two banquet halls: A small upstairs hall that can accommodate up to 120 people and a larger main hall that can accommodate up to 500 people. The main hall in particular is a gorgeous space with a great base aesthetic that can be transformed for any type of event. Take note of the gorgeous dramatic curtained balconies that add to the ambiance. The Dante Club also has an excellent restaurant that caters events with selections of delicious Italian-inspired items, which are popular with Timmins locals. The club is staffed by members and volunteers who take the utmost pride in their organization, which ensures your event will be hosted the utmost care and consideration.
If you’re looking for a venue that allows your guests to disconnect from their daily grind and reconnect with nature and their surroundings, Elk Lake Eco Lodge is a perfect destination. Located about an hour from Kirkland Lake and Temiskaming Shores, the Eco Lodge provides the perfect backdrop for an event, no matter the size.
The Elk Lake Eco Lodge was built with the goal of promoting a healthy environment and experience for its guests. As a result, the architecture and construction is as environmentally friendly as possible. This charming rustic lodge features gorgeous meeting rooms and dining areas, a full-service bar, and an infrared sauna and hot tub. The restaurant takes pride in its nutritious and delicious menu and the chef is happy to work with guests for event catering. The eco-lodge also has 6 large chalets, including one fully accessible chalet, for multi-day retreats. The staff at Elk Lake Eco Lodge are more than happy to help make the lodge the perfect place to host your next big event that people won’t stop talking about!
Manitoulin Island is arguably one of the most gorgeous destinations in Northern Ontario, with a deep and rich history centered around its First Nations culture and traditions. If you’re looking for somewhere that your guests can truly connect and learn about Canada and Northern Ontario, the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre in Little Current is the place to go.
By far the largest of venues included in this roundup, The Manitoulin Conference Centre can accommodate small events up to large multi-day events where the whole center can be booked. Event spaces range from many small meeting rooms to full-size conference and ballrooms. The spaces, the hotel rooms, and the restaurant have all been built and maintained with First Nations traditions at their core, and is able to facilitate learning experiences around First Nations culture and traditions for your event-goers. To top off this amazing hotel and conference center, it is located on the shores of the breathtaking North Channel of Lake Huron, with views of the LaCloche Mountains.
No matter the occasion, we know visitors will find the perfect venue in Northeastern Ontario to help them celebrate!
