During the holidays, Georgian Bay communities offer many different events and activities to bolster the spirit of the season. Dress warm and venture out to make new Christmas memories.
Decorate Santa’s Cookies
Youngsters have the chance to come to the Collingwood Library and join efforts in decorating cookies for Santa. The event is scheduled for December 8 from 4:00 to 5:00 P.M. Children 7 to 12 are invited to attend. There is no fee for participation. However, advanced registration is required. Call 705.445.1571 to register.
Christmas Past and Present
The Simcoe County Museum welcomes guests on December 10 and 11 from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. to explore the holiday atmosphere as it might have appeared in a less technology-dependent era. Pathways will be illuminated with the help of historic lanterns. Sleigh bells will ring through the air as a horse-drawn wagon provides transportation. Find novelty gifts from the displays created by local artists. The Simcoe County Paramedic Services are also hosting a toy drive for local children. Admission is by freewill donation.
Moreston by Candlelight
The historic homes and merchant shops of Moreston Heritage Village come alive to provide visitors with a glimpse of the holidays from the 1850s to the 1940s. Each location is lit by candles or lanterns in an attempt to recreate the ambiance of the past. Horse-drawn wagons decked with sleigh bells offer rides and costumed presenters offer homemade treats and hot apple cider. Bonfires help take away the chill of the evening air. The special event takes place on December 12 from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Admission fee is $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children aged 5 to 12. Family rates are $20.00.
Thornbury Olde-Fashioned Christmas
Thornbury residents welcome guests to help them celebrate the holiday season all day on December 12. Walk along Main Street and see the shop decorations. Help Mrs. Claus decorate cookies,sing along with the carolers, and watch an amazing magic show. Scrooge will be handing out chocolate money and little ones will gaze in awe as Santa’s reindeer undergo training for the upcoming big night. Other activities include face painting and outdoor ice skating.
The Nutcracker Fleet-wood Dance Centre
Come to Meaford Hall on December 12 and enjoy a presentation of this traditional holiday classic ballet. Sit back, relax and enjoy the glittering magic of this holiday favorite. Presentations are scheduled for 2:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. Admission is $20 for guests 12 and up. The price for children under 12 is $10.
DCMA Annual Christmas Concert
Get in the holiday spirit on December 13 at 2:00 P.M. when the Forever Young group presents a live concert of seasonal favorites in the Main Gallery of the Duffering County Museum and Archives. The annual Holiday Treasures Art & Craft Show will also be open and continues through December 20. Admission is $10 and proceeds are designated for the Senior Santa Christmas Hamper.
Frozen in Time Festival/Winter Wonderland
Collingwood welcomes guests to explore their unique wonderland from December 26 through January 3. By day, the entire family may participate in various activities that include making holiday crafts, building with ice blocks, and playing a variety of games. Attend story time, eat s’mores, and watch a shinny game. There will be a Cocoa Cabin to get warm by the roaring fire and enjoy refreshments. When the sun goes down, tour the historic streets of the community and witness dozens of amazing illuminated ice sculptures.