Mid-Winter Social

Event Description

Join us on Family Day weekend 2025

About the Mid-Winter Social

Discovery Harbour celebrates winter by welcoming visitors to the historic site on February 15-17, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily. This event runs in tandem with the Town of Penetanguishene’s 77th Annual Winterama.

All the activities (Saturday, Sunday and Monday – see below for specific times.)

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Jump on the tractor-pulled wagon ride
Experience the thrill of a kids’ snow tube run – we provide the tubes!*
Strap on snowshoes and stomp along the snowshoeing track*

*Some activities are weather dependent*

HISTORIC EXPERIENCE

Explore historic Keating House, watch historic cooking demonstrations and sample warm maple syrup
Watch the sparks fly at the historic blacksmith demonstration
Be mesmerized while watching the Black Powder Musket firing demonstration
Dress up like a 19th century British soldier in the soldiers’ encampment
Enjoy guided tours of the original establishment’s Officers’ Quarters and explore a 19th century soldiers’ encampment
Explore the H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre and check out the real Tecumseth shipwreck and other museum displays
Listen to traditional Métis storytelling in the Métis dwelling

GAMES, CRAFTS AND MORE!

Say hello to costumed characters! More info and details coming soon!
Join the fun of the new Mini Winter Olympics – a variety of games held throughout the historic site
Try the hands-on traditional activities of candle-making and beading in our cozy cabins
Transform in your favourite animal at our face painting station!
Join the Endorphin Boost Challenge and help spread smiles and joy!
Games and activities in the HMS Tecumseth Centre
Discover your inner artist at our Arctic Art Adventure in the HMS Tecumseth Centre

SWEETS, TREATS AND SHOPPING

Warm up with hot chocolate and a variety of snacks at the Cocoa Corner in the HMS Tecumseth Centre and Theatre Treats at the Kings’ Wharf Theatre
Roast bannock over a crackling open fire
Visit local artisans and vendors in Garrison Hall

EVERYTHING ELSE

Gather your team of 4-6 players and try to escape the Brig in our Escape Room Experience (additional charge)
Kid-approved live performances in the Kings’ Wharf Theatre (more info coming soon!)
Enjoy a delicious meal at Captain Roberts’ Table

The roots of Discovery Harbour date back to 1793, when Sir John Graves Simcoe scouted Penetanguishene Bay as a strategic site for a naval base. The steep-sided, deep water bay would be an ideal spot to protect and maintain ships. The bay could also serve as a vital transport link from York (Toronto) to the northwest.