PORT SYDNEY - The 56th annual Port Sydney Winter Carnival should dash away any winter blues with numerous activities for all ages scheduled from Jan. 23 to 27.
Whether indulging in area food offerings at the grand Marché and other available feasts or playing human curling, snowshoeing or watching demonstrations, it’s a weekend full of winter fun.
“We encourage people to come and try all the things going on,” said Nancy Ewing, general manager with the Port Sydney Chamber of Commerce. “There are things for every age group. Whole families can participate in building snow structures. It’s fun for everyone.”
Many popular events will be returning such as the mushball tournament, hosted by the Stevenson District Lions Club, where competitors play hockey with baseball bats. Helmets must be worn. The Lions will also be hosting a Dance the Night Away event, Port Sydney firefighters will be demonstrating ice rescues, the Ontario Pioneer Camp will offer candle making, human curling (kids sit on tires), a snowshoe obstacle course and broomball, there will be face painting by Painted Kids and comic relief from Tim Holland.
Depending on weather, staff with RE/MAX North Country Realty will be offering hot air balloon rides.
There will also be a pancake breakfast on Saturday morning and a barbecue on the beach in the afternoon with skating all day.
On the last day of the festival, the North Granite Ridge Golf Club will offer free cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on its trails.
New to the event this year is a Rabbie Burns Night roast beef dinner with entertainment by the Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums, the Jennifer Low Highland Dancers and singers Ken and Elaine Heron.
“It’s great to get out in the fresh air. Winter in Muskoka is just as good as summer in Muskoka, when there’s a lot of events being prepared for people.”
Most activities for the event are covered by the $2 admission; however the meals require their own tickets.
The carnival is a fundraiser for the chamber to help with its Canada Day festivities, which will be held on June 29 this year, as July 1 is a Monday.
For more information, including the schedule, visit portsydneycofc.com or phone 705-385-1117.