The holidays might be over, but there is still so much to celebrate! Keep busy this winter by checking out one of the many festivals and events happening in Northeastern Ontario this 2017 winter season.
February 2-5, 2017
Municipality of Killarney
For those looking for a relaxed festival weekend, look no further than the Killarney Winter Carnival! Young families will be able to enjoy a variety of games and activities for kids such as hockey, skating, and other entertainment including magicians and clowns. Adults looking for something more their speed can participate in events such as a hockey tournament, a bonspiel, or heading on over to Veterans’ Memorial Hall for the community dinner and Carnival Dance on Saturday night.
February 3-5, 2017
City of Greater Sudbury
There is no better way to indulge in Canada’s favorite pastime than as a participant or one of 1,500 spectators at the eighth annual Pond Hockey on the Rock tournament. Due to the unpredictable nature of, well, nature, this year participants will be strapping on boots instead of skates in a good old-fashioned street hockey showdown taking place at the Jim Jerome Sports Complex. So come on down and celebrate the best game you can name!
Get full details from their website, or check them out on Facebook.
February 4, 2017
Town of Mattawa
Get ready to hustle! Going on its sixth year, the Into the White Snowshoe Race has been a longtime favorite of northerners. The race features 12k and 15k options, and ends in an exhilarating snowslide to the finish! After the race, participants will be treated to a light lunch over a bonfire to warm the body and soul. This year, registration will be informal and by voluntary donation.
Keep an eye on their Facebook page for more details or check out their website.
Feb 10-20, 2017
Town of Cochrane
The Cochrane Winter Carnival is really in a class of its own. In addition to being the oldest and largest of winter carnivals in northern Ontario, it offers both classic and newer twists on festival favourites. This year, spirits tasting, vintage snowmobile drag racing, and a beard growing contest round out the newest additions. Don't worry, there's still the winter festival classics such as ice sculpting, a parade, and the always incredible Torchlight Parade (pictured on the cover)!
Learn more about the carnival on their website.
February 17-19, 2017
South Porcupine (Timmins Area)
Start your Canada 150 celebration early this year with the South Porcupine Winter Carnival. While it might still be in the planning stages, this year's carnival is planning on celebrating Canada’s big milestone, so keep an eye on the Facebook page for updates and details!
Get the latest updates on their Facebook page.
March 4, 2017 from 11 am-3 pm
City of Greater Sudbury
Add a little extra winter fun to an outdoors weekend with Kivi Park: Sudbury’s brand new winter wonderland! Bring your skis or snowshoes and explore Kivi Park’s 300+ acres of gorgeous Cambrian Shield in between sleigh rides, a bonfire, s’mores hot chocolate, pony rides, face painting and more.
Find our more about the Karnival on their Facebook page.
Feb 9-12, 2017
Walden (Sudbury Area)
The City of Sudbury's longest-running annual event (40 years!), this small-town carnival is a great way to kill the February blues. Focusing on family friendly activities both outdoors and in, this carnival is perfect for warming the body and spirit! Play some boot hockey or bubble soccer, go for a family skate or purchase tickets for Comedy Night on Friday February 10th.
See the full event line up on their website.
Ice Follies
City of North Bay
The cold has never been able to stop Northerners from doing what they love, whether it be work, play, or… art! Experience breathtaking and thought-provoking exhibits set in the contrasting and complementary setting of the frozen surface of Lake Nipissing. In between, enjoy stops and experience all that North Bay has to offer. This festival is biennial and won’t be taking place until 2018, so keep it in mind when making your travel plans next year!
Until then check them out on social media to view previous installations or find out more on their website.
