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Cozy winter fun at historic Discovery Harbour
Warm up at Discovery Harbour’s Mid-Winter Social with firepits, heritage experiences, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities in Penetanguishene this weekend.
Event details
Step back in time at this 30-acre living history site on the shores of Penetanguishene Bay, where costumed interpreters bring 19th-century naval life to vivid reality during Family Day Weekend, February 14 through 16, 2026.
From 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, you can watch fire artist Scarlett Black perform at 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM, catch black powder musket demonstrations, and try your hand at traditional games like Nine Men’s Morris. Kids love the snow tube run, face painting, and creative craft stations, while adults appreciate the blacksmithing demonstrations and hands-on Mini Blacksmith Workshop, $60 for a two-hour session.
The King’s Wharf Theatre hosts family performances each day: Juno-nominated duo Sonshine and Broccoli on Saturday, bilingual performers Razzmatazz on Sunday, and Uncle Buck’s Magic on Monday.
General admission runs $12 per person, children 5 and under free, with 25% off if you show your Winterama button. Free parking is available at 93 Jury Drive.
Discovery Harbour traces its roots to 1817 when the British Navy built this strategic base after the War of 1812. Today you can explore the original 1845 stone Officers’ Quarters, see the recovered hull of the 200-year-old H.M.S. Tecumseth, and warm up by glowing firepits with maple taffy and s’mores. The site offers free dockage for boaters arriving by water, connecting you directly to Georgian Bay’s 31,000 islands.
After exploring, walk five minutes to World Famous Dock Lunch, the beloved waterfront institution serving families since 1957, famous for its burgers, Greek food, and dairy bar milkshakes. Phil’s Family Restaurant on Main Street dishes up hearty Hungarian schnitzel and all-day breakfast. Couples seeking evening atmosphere should try Café Kittyhawk’s Friday “Nighthawk” cocktail and tapas service.
For accommodations, Lake.com features Georgian Bay waterfront cottages perfect for families wanting to combine history, winter fun, and lakeside relaxation into one memorable weekend. Plan about two hours minimum to experience everything the Social offers, and dress warmly since most activities take place outdoors on the historic grounds.
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