NEWS RELEASE
HURONIA HISTORICAL PARKS
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Discovery Harbour invites you to bring your friends and family for a magical Family Day weekend at the 2025 Mid-Winter Social.
From Saturday, Feb. 15 to Monday, Feb. 17, the historic site will transform into a winter wonderland filled with classic activities and fresh, new fun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
What’s new for 2025:
This year’s Mid-Winter Social introduces exciting new entertainment options that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. For the first time, guests can enjoy live music and mesmerizing magic performances at King’s Wharf Theatre, all included with admission. Talented local musicians Ken Lindsay and Ron Whitman will take the stage, along with captivating mini-bubble and traditional magic shows. Also making its debut in 2025, bubble soccer invites friends to suit up for some hilarious and competitive fun on the field.
Dive into the festivities
With so much to see and do, this year’s Mid-Winter Social promises an unforgettable experience for families, history enthusiasts and winter adventurers alike. From action-packed outdoor activities to interactive historic demonstrations and creative kids’ programming, the event offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the scenic snow-covered grounds, savouring delicious food or engaging in hands-on fun, there’s no better way to celebrate Family Day weekend than at Discovery Harbour.
“We’re thrilled to introduce live music and magic performances this year,” said Will Baird, general manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “This addition brings a new level of excitement to the Mid-Winter Social, creating unforgettable moments for families and visitors of all ages.”
Outdoor adventure
Embrace the winter spirit with outdoor activities for the whole family:
- Kids’ snow tube run (weather dependent): a thrilling favourite for kids and the young at heart.
- Snowshoeing trail (weather dependent): Take in the snowy vistas at your own pace.
- Tractor-pulled wagon ride: Traverse the historic site in style.
- New this year — bubble soccer: Suit up for a hilarious, bouncy competition with friends.
Timed activities
Don’t miss these scheduled attractions:
- Kings Wharf Theatre music and magic: Experience live performances by local musicians Ken Lindsay and Ron Whitman, along with dazzling bubble and traditional magic shows. Shows at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. daily.
- Black powder musket firing demonstrations: Witness a live demonstration of historic military techniques. Every hour on the hour from 12 to 3 p.m.
- Bo’sun’s Brig Escape Room: Solve puzzles in a one-hour, traditional escape room set in the historic brig. (Pre-booking required for groups of four to six players. Additional cost applies.) There are three time slots each day: 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. A French-language option is also available.
- Costumed kids’ characters: Meet beloved characters for photos and fun, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
- Saturday: Elsa and Anna
- Sunday: Bluey
- Monday: Mario and Luigi
Historic activities
Step back in time with interactive and educational experiences:
- Black powder musket firing demonstrations
- Blacksmith demonstrations: Watch our blacksmiths work with metal and fire in a mesmerizing display of historic skill.
- Tours of the original officer’s quarters: Explore the preserved history of Discovery Harbour.
- Historic cooking demonstrations at Keating House: Enjoy the aroma of traditional recipes with maple syrup sampling.
- Soldiers’ encampment: Immerse yourself in the life of 19th-century soldiers.
- Authentic historic games: Play games from a bygone era.
- Storytelling in the Métis dwelling: Hear captivating tales of Métis heritage.
- Roast bannock over an open fire: a hands-on, delicious experience.
Kids’ activities
Little ones will delight in activities designed just for them:
- Face painting: Transform into a favourite character or animal.
- Arctic art adventure: Create winter-inspired masterpieces.
- Mini Winter Olympic Games: Join in fun competitions across the historic site.
- Dress-up station: Try on costumes from the past, including sailors and soldiers.
Other great highlights
Don’t miss these additional features:
- Local vendors and artisans: Discover unique finds in Garrison Hall.
- Métis Artisan Guild: Find Métis artists and artisans in Navy Hall.
- Learn to play snow snake: Try your hand at this traditional winter game.
- Additional Métis activities and traditional crafts: Activities are open to all visitors.
Delicious food at Mid-Winter Social
Get ready to indulge at Captain Roberts’ Table, open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the Mid-Winter Social. Treat your taste buds to a mouthwatering special menu featuring irresistible family favourites like juicy mini-burgers and crispy deep-fried bannock on a stick, loaded with all your favourite toppings. These delicious delights are the perfect way to warm up and refuel for a day of fun. Plus, their regular menu will be available daily to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on the ultimate Sunday brunch buffet from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (last seating at 1 p.m.), packed with a variety of scrumptious options for the whole family.
For even more delicious eats, the Foodiez food truck will be rolling in on Sunday and Monday of the long weekend, serving up a variety of mouthwatering poutine and kid-friendly favourites like crispy chicken fingers. Whether you’re craving something savoury or satisfying your little ones’ appetites, Foodiez has something for everyone.
Admission details
Admission to the Mid-Winter Social is just $12 per person, tax included. Children five and under enjoy free admission, with additional free admission programs available. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.discoveryharbour.on.ca. Tickets can also be purchased at the entrance during the event.
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