May 2024

Candlelight Concerts & Other Experiences for your Summertime Ontario ToDo List

Attending candlelight concerts in Ontario this summer offers a uniquely enchanting experience, blending the magic of live music with the soft glow of hundreds of candles. Set in historic and picturesque venues across the province, these concerts cover a range of genres from classical to contemporary hits, performed by talented musicians. The intimate and serene atmosphere, coupled with the beautiful candlelit settings, creates a captivating ambiance perfect for a memorable evening out. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these concerts promise a delightful escape into a world of music and light.

Beyond candlelight concerts, Ontario’s summer calendar is brimming with exciting events, from vibrant concerts to cultural celebrations such as Caribana and the Stratford Festival. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy numerous food and craft beer tours, art shows, and farmers’ markets, making Ontario a dynamic destination for a diverse range of summer activities.

Upcoming Ontario Events & Experiences

Things To Do in Hamilton

Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at The Cotton Factory
Venue: The Cotton Factory
Dates: June 14, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
Venue: The Westdale
Dates: July 6, 2024
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Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Venue: The Cotton Factory
Dates: June 14, 2024
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Candlelight: Featuring Mozart, Bach, and Timeless Composers
Venue: The Cotton Factory
Dates: June 19, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA
Venue: The Cotton Factory
Dates: June 15 & 19, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele
Venue: The Westdale
Dates: July 6, 2024
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Things To Do in Kitchener-Waterloo

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA
Venue: Maxwell’s
Dates: June 12, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Maxwell’s
Dates: June 12, 2024
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Candlelight: Classic Rock on Strings at Maxwell’s
Venue: Maxwell’s
Dates: July 18, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele
Venue: Maxwell’s Concerts & Events
Dates: July 18, 2024
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Things To Do in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls: Boat Cruise + Journey Behind the Falls Tour
Prepare to be blown away by the most thrilling adventure of your life at Niagara Falls! Brace yourself for non-stop excitement with a guided 2.5-hour walking tour led by passionate experts. Get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring might of the falls as you gain access to the sensational Journey Behind the Falls and the world-famous Niagara Falls boat tour. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of this natural wonder while uncovering fascinating history and enthralling stories. Don’t even think about missing out on this mind-blowing opportunity of a lifetime!

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Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour of Niagara Falls
Get ready to have the most epic, heart-pounding experience of your life on the mind-blowing Devil’s Hole Rapids tour! Brace yourself for an adrenaline rush as you navigate through the jaw-dropping class 5 rapids in a super-cool jet boat. Choose the Wet Jet and embrace getting totally soaked, or opt for the Freedom Jet to stay dry but still get in on the wild fun. Prepare for absolute excitement and breathtaking scenery. Discover fascinating insights about the mighty Niagara River from your daring captain. And don’t even think about forgetting a change of clothes – this mind-blowing adventure is going to leave you breathless and utterly enthralled!

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Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto
Escape from the city and hear the roar of Niagara Falls on this roundtrip from Toronto! Enjoy an in-depth narrated tour as you travel from Toronto to Niagra in comfort with your own private group and guide. There’ll be plenty of activities to fill the day from start to finish including a ride up to the Skylon’s observation deck with incredible views, and a boat cruise on the Hornblower to the falls’ plunge pool. You’ll want to put on your complimentary poncho because things can get real misty down by the plunge pool! Finish the day at the caves behind the falls for a unique view.

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Things To Do in Ottawa

Ottawa Private Investigator: Mystery Exploration Game
Meet the people behind the scenes who have left their mark on the nation’s capital. They are architects, artists, everyday people, and leaders, but most importantly, they have made an impact that has forever changed our city. Enjoy Ottawa’s natural, green spaces, as well as the hustle and bustle in the heart of the city. Play this game using a bike or e-scooter.

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Ottawa River Boat Cruise
Prepare to embark on an absolutely thrilling Ottawa River Boat Cruise! Brace yourself for a mind-blowing journey through Canada’s mesmerizing national capital region. Imagine yourself gliding along the peaceful Ottawa River, getting up close and personal with iconic landmarks such as the Supreme Court, Parliament Buildings, and majestic Rideau Falls. Picture yourself on the open upper deck, capturing jaw-dropping photos that will leave your friends envious. And let’s not forget about the captivating history of Ottawa that you’ll learn about along the way. With accessibility for wheelchairs, this 90-minute adventure guarantees awe-inspiring views and memories that will forever be etched in your mind.

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The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa
Get ready for the ultimate haunted adventure in Ottawa! Join this thrilling 1 hour and 15-minute Haunted Walk and prepare to be spooked! Follow your guide’s flickering lantern as they lead you through terrifying tales of crying dolls and phantom footsteps. Uncover hidden cemeteries, hear spine-chilling stories of mysterious mysteries and brace yourself for an unforgettable tour that will leave you with goosebumps.

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Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Discover Ottawa like never before! Perfect for newbies, this city tour offers a fab intro to all the must-see spots, with plenty of day left to roam free and uncover more gems on your own.

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Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River
Set sail on the Ottawa River like never before! Jump aboard our Hawaiian-style Tiki Hut with your crew for an unforgettable adventure. Perfect for chilling with pals, romantic getaways, or even a unique school trip, this is your ticket to becoming part of the Ottawa Ohana. Make your way to Mill Street Pub, follow our signs, and embark on a journey of relaxation and fun.

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Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen and More
Venue: Knox Church
Dates: June 21, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Leonard Cohen
Venue: First Baptist Church
Dates: June 28, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac at The Gladstone Theatre
Venue: First Baptist Church
Dates: July 18, 2024
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Candlelight: From Bach to The Beatles
Venue: First Baptist Church
Dates: July 27, 2024
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Things To Do in Toronto

2hr Shared Sailing Experience in Toronto
Set sail for an unforgettable 2-hour adventure through Toronto’s stunning harbor and beyond! Glide past the world’s shortest commercial ferry, dive into the cool breeze of Humber Bay and Lake Ontario, and catch the thrilling local sailing races. Drift by the unique Toronto Islands community, spot summer cruise ships, and marvel at urban beaches, sleek condos, and the iconic CN Tower.

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Candlelight Spring: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
Venue: Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto
Dates: June 14, 2024
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Candlelight Spring: Featuring Mozart, Bach and Timeless Composers
Venue: Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto
Dates: June 14, 2024
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Candlelight Spring: A Tribute to Adele
Venue: Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto
Dates: June 15, 2024
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Candlelight Open Air: A Tribute to ABBA
Venue: Evergreen Brickworks
Dates: June 20, 2024
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Candlelight: A Tribute to Celine Dion and more
Venue: Paradise Theatre
Dates: June 27, 2024
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Overnight Accommodations in Toronto

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Toronto in Bloom Package

SAVE UP TO 15% OFF YOUR STAY. Spring is here and Chelsea Hotel, Toronto is making it easy for you to explore the city in full bloom. The hotel places you just steps away from the city’s attractions, shopping, sport venues & more. Enjoy a special discount for your stay when you book 1 day in advance.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Drive, Stay & Play Package

The Chelsea Hotel is making it a little easier for travelers to take a road trip. Book this package and parking is included.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Fairmont, Royal York

PRIDE Package

Celebrate Toronto Pride with 10% off luxury accommodations at Toronto’s landmark hotel.

For every stay booked, a $10 CAD donation will go to the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) to help promote equality and safety within LGBTQ+ tourism worldwide.

Offer Includes

10% off luxury accommodations
$10 CAD donation per stay to IGLTA

CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW

May 28, 2024 Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka & Parry Sound, Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay & Lake Simcoe, Greater Toronto Area, Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley, Hamilton, Halton & Brant, Huron, Perth, Waterloo & Wellington, Kawartha Northumberland, Niagara Falls, Northeastern Ontario, Northwest Ontario, Ottawa & Countryside, Sault Ste. Marie - Algoma, South Eastern Ontario, Southwest Ontario, York, Durham, Headwaters

June Events and Things ToDo at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in Toronto

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in Toronto has a variety of exciting events and activities lined up. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Sharks After Dark

This event runs from January 1 to June 30, 2024, starting at 5:00 PM. Visitors can save $5 on tickets to explore the aquarium’s exhibits after dark, making for a unique nighttime experience.

2. Friday Night Jazz

On the second Friday of every month, enjoy live jazz music while exploring the aquarium. This event combines the beauty of marine life with the soothing sounds of jazz.

3. Night at the Aquarium

A Night of Drag, Dancing, and Sharks Awaits You at Night at the Aqueerium! Get ready to dive deep into the most fabulous Pride event of the year! Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is hosting its legendary “Night at the Aqueerium” event on Friday, June 21.

4. Stingray Experience

Available through December 31, 2024, this interactive event allows guests to get up close with stingrays in the Ray Bay. It’s an educational and thrilling experience for all ages.

5. Sensory Sunday Mornings

On the first Sunday of every month, the aquarium provides a more serene environment with special accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors, including those with sensory sensitivities.

6. Breakfast with a Mermaid

Scheduled for June 15, 2024, this event is the perfect blend of fantasy and learning, creating unforgettable moments and inspiring everyone to become ocean heroes. Come make a splash with Ripley’s.

Additionally, the aquarium offers a Sea the Sky Combo Ticket throughout 2024, which includes general admission to both Ripley’s Aquarium and the CN Tower, providing a full day of Toronto’s top attractions.

For more details and to purchase tickets, you can visit the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada website.

Overnight Accommodations in Toronto

Why not spend the night, or two, and enjoy a Toronto getaway.

Staying in Toronto for the weekend offers a vibrant mix of activities and attractions. Begin your day exploring the iconic CN Tower and nearby Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, where you can experience unique events like Friday Night Jazz and interactive exhibits. Stroll through the bustling streets of downtown, enjoy shopping at the Eaton Centre, or visit the historic St. Lawrence Market for local delicacies. In the evening, dive into Toronto’s diverse culinary scene with a variety of restaurants offering everything from gourmet dining to street food. Cap off your night with a show in the Entertainment District or a visit to one of the many rooftop bars offering stunning city views. With its rich cultural tapestry and myriad of activities, Toronto promises an unforgettable weekend getaway.

Toronto getaway packages to take advantage of:

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Toronto in Bloom Package

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Drive, Stay & Play Package

The Chelsea Hotel is making it a little easier for travelers to take a road trip. Book this package and parking is included.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Fairmont, Royal York

PRIDE Package

Celebrate Toronto Pride with 10% off luxury accommodations at Toronto’s landmark hotel.

For every stay booked, a $10 CAD donation will go to the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) to help promote equality and safety within LGBTQ+ tourism worldwide.

Offer Includes

10% off luxury accommodations
$10 CAD donation per stay to IGLTA

CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW

May 28, 2024 Greater Toronto Area

Indigenous People’s Day & Month in Ontario

Indigenous Events, Activities & Experiences

Every June brings another chance to celebrate and honour Canada’s rich history with National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st. First established as a national holiday in 1996, the day encourages Canadians to honor and celebrate the legacy and culture of the country’s Indigenous groups.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate your own Indigenous heritage or simply want to honor a piece of the country’s history, there are plenty of ways to get involved this year. Read on for more information about Indigenous Peoples Day, and find out how you can celebrate throughout the entire month of June!

A History of Indigenous Peoples Day

In 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood (now known as the Assembly of First Nations) called for the creation of a day that would recognize the rich culture of Canada’s Indigenous peoples, as well as the contributions they’ve made to the nation’s prosperity.

Over a decade later, Governor General Roméo LeBlanc officially declared June 21st of each year to be National Aboriginal Day. Thanks to a statement issued by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2017, the holiday is now widely known as National Indigenous Peoples Day and honors the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples of Canada.

The Importance of Celebrating Indigenous Culture

The contributions made by Indigenous peoples to Canada’s history and prosperity are overlooked. And thanks to a long history of colonization and discrimination, Indigenous culture has largely become invisible, despite the fact that Indigenous peoples make up nearly 5% of Canada’s total population.

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day provides a space for these groups to be recognized and celebrated for their achievements and rich culture. It also allows non-Indigenous people to gain a better understanding of and a new appreciation for the Indigenous communities that surround them.

Celebrating Indigenous Culture Respectfully

If you’re a non-Indigenous person who would like to participate in the Indigenous Peoples Day celebration, it’s important to maintain a level of respect.

Respectfully observing the holiday largely means keeping the focus on Indigenous culture and history. This can be done in countless ways and can include anything from eating traditional foods to attending a celebration hosted by an Indigenous organization.

Another crucial aspect of celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day respectfully is educating yourself about Indigenous history, which is often improperly taught. Staying educated can minimize misinformation surrounding Indigenous culture, and keep misconceptions from being passed down to future generations.

Ways You Can Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Month This Year

In 2024, there are plenty of things you can do to honor Canada’s Indigenous history all month long. Read on to find out what you can do for Indigenous Peoples Day this year!

Online Government Programs & Celebrations

Be sure to check out National Indigenous Peoples Day virtual activities happening in your region through Celebrate Canada.

Learn More

Midland Cultural Centre Indigenous Art Gallery

The new art gallery located in the heart of Midland is always featuring Indigenous artist exhibitions. This free-admission fine art gallery is proud to show the works of regional and Ontario artists.

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Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival

Where: Ottawa, Ontario

Come celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, Competition Pow-Wow and much more.

INDIGENOUS DAY CELEBRATION: June 21

EDUCATION DAYS: June 21 – 23, 2024
FREE performances and interactive workshops that share and celebrate the diverse Indigenous cultures of Canada. All of this programming is designed to encourage interaction and engagement with our Indigenous artists and knowledge keepers who will help bring the curriculum to life in a fun, authentic and appropriate way.

POW WOW: June 21 – 23, 2024
This year the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is excited to feature both our Virtual Pow Wow and live Competition Pow Wow, presented by CN Railway & Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Learn More About This Festival

Mādahòkì Marketplace

Where: Ottawa, Ontario

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National Indigenous Peoples Day @ Sainte Marie Among the Hurons

DATE: Friday, June 21, 2024
HOURS: 10 am to 3 pm*
Special Event Rate: $ 12.00 per person, plus HST
* The historic site and indoor museum are open until 5 pm (last admission at 4 pm).

Join this dynamic, annual, education-focused celebration of the heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Take part in workshops, presentations, and activities to learn about a wide variety of Indigenous skills including drumming, dancing, and craftwork. Learn about traditional teachings, shop for Indigenous art, and more. Come and honour these dynamic communities on the longest day of the year, at historic Sainte-Marie among the Hurons.

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Daphne Cockwell Gallery @ ROM

Where: Toronto, Ontario

Located on the main floor of the Hilary and Galen Weston Wing, the Daphne Cockwell Gallery dedicated to First Peoples art & culture is one of ROM’s premiere cultural spaces, featuring more than one thousand works of art and cultural heritage.

As part of ROM’s broader effort to foster a greater appreciation of the Indigenous ancestral objects in the Museum’s collections, and to support the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, admission to the Daphne Cockwell Gallery dedicated to First Peoples art & culture is free of charge to the public.

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Niibing Tribal Tours

Where: Niibing, Ontario (approx 40 minutes from Thunder Bay)

Learn about regional history and Indigenous cultural experiences on this leader-led weekend getaway. Learn about Kakabeka Falls, Mount McKay, Marina Park, Amethyst Mine Panorama, Ouimet Canyon, Silver Islet, Sleeping Gian Provincial Park and Old White Pine Stand. Choose from packages that include flights, accommodation, transportation and everything you need.

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FREE ATTRACTION ENTRY

In Ontario, a growing number of tourism attractions are offering free entry to Indigenous peoples as part of efforts to recognize and honor their heritage and contributions. This initiative includes popular sites such as Ontario Parks, which grants free admission to all its provincial parks, allowing Indigenous visitors to connect with their ancestral lands and enjoy natural landscapes. Museums like the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) also participate in this initiative, providing opportunities for Indigenous peoples to explore cultural, historical, and artistic exhibits without financial barriers. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to reconciliation and fostering an inclusive environment where Indigenous communities can freely access and engage with Ontario’s rich cultural and natural resources. Newly added to this list is the Toronto Metro Zoo.

Mohawk Institute Public Virtual Tour

The Woodland Cultural Centre presents a screening of the Mohawk Institute Residential School. Join them every third Wednesday of the month at 7pm and help support virtual programming at the Woodland Cultural Centre with your donation.

The virtual tour video was created with local production company Thru the Reddoor, and it follows the guide, Lorrie Gallant, as she gives a tour of the former Mohawk Institute Indian Residential School. During the video Lorrie provides the history of the institution over its 140 year history. Viewers will get to see the different rooms in the school, from the girls’ and boys’ dormitories, the cafeteria, laundry room, and other rooms throughout the building, as well as hear interviews from five Survivors of the Mohawk Institute.

Learn More

June is month filled with things to celebrate in Ontario. Always check out the ToDoOntario Events Calendar for more things to do in Ontario.

May 27, 2024 Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka & Parry Sound, Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay & Lake Simcoe, Greater Toronto Area, Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley, Hamilton, Halton & Brant, Huron, Perth, Waterloo & Wellington, Kawartha Northumberland, Niagara Falls, Northeastern Ontario, Northwest Ontario, Ottawa & Countryside, Sault Ste. Marie - Algoma, South Eastern Ontario, Southwest Ontario, York, Durham, Headwaters

Father’s Day Gift Ideas For Ontario Dads

Things To Do Father’s Day For All Kinds Of Dads

Father’s Day in Ontario is on June 16, 2024.

Ontario Dads are pretty special. They do an amazing job at teaching their children not only all the fun things to do in Ontario, but how to enjoy them like a kid. Ontario offers all kinds of activities that fathers love and love to teach their kids.

Spending time with Dad on father’s day weekend is always quality time. Spending the day with your father and doing something dad loves is a wonderful way to show your appreciation for everything he does. Summer-like weather means there are plenty of things to do in Ontario on Father’s Day.

Perhaps plan a hike, golf or fishing outing. Make a reservation on his favourite patio and get a bite to eat. Definitely make some reservations no matter what you choose to do.

If you’re staying home maybe you can plan an outside bonfire and watch his favourite movie outside with popcorn and snacks. If you have a bonfire, make sure you make the ToDoOntario Dessert Cones!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

If you’re looking to get something special for your dad this year, here are a few fathers day ideas that are getaway packages or experiences you can send Dad out to do, or do together.

SPA TIME FOR DAD AT A HYDROSPA

Let Dad go and soak or steam his stress away at JW Marriott the Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa’s Hydrospa. They offer indulgent spa services with gorgeous Muskoka views.

After a relaxing spa visit Dad can dine and then experience the Crystal Head Vodka Ice Bar.

BOOK NOW

FRIDAY HARBOUR SPECIAL EVENTS

Enjoy live music and entertainment, outdoor adventures, special menus and more. Plus, join Friday Harbour as they welcome Saturns Drives on Sunday afternoon for a special visit with super, exotic, and high end sports cars.

Learn More

SEND DAD ON A FISHING TRIP

For a night, for a weekend, for a whole week, send Dad off to recharge his batteries on an Ontario fishing trip.

View Fishing Getaway Packages

RELAX AND CRUISE GEORGIAN BAY

Any Dad would love to join Island Queen Cruises as they cruise through the inner islands of the Big Sound, an area many locals consider to be home to some of the most beautiful islands and channels on the Bay, including the famous Hole in the Wall! This non-stop two-hour morning cruise is the cruise that started it all.

Learn More About Island Queen Cruises

Celebrate Father’s Day – Join Sunset Cruises for SPECIAL Cruises on Lake Rosseau!

Dads cruise for FREE with one paid cruise ticket.

Calling all families and adventure seekers! This Father’s Day, give Dad the ultimate treat with an unforgettable experience aboard Peerless II, on the picturesque Lake Rosseau.

Sunset Cruises does not have any online reservation available, you must contact the office – 705-645-2462 or email info@sunsetcruises.ca to book your tickets.

See Cruise Schedule

FORE THE LOVE OF DADS

Ontario has no shortage of beautiful golf courses and driving ranges. Buy your father a gift certificate to enjoy a course he loves or even a new one to try!

View Ontario Golf Courses

Climb Like A Kid Again Canopy Tours & Treetop Trekking

In the treetops or on a zip line are a great way to have fun and make memories with Dad. Ontario has some pretty cool canopy tours and activities that will have your dad feeling like a kid again.

Haliburton Forest Canopy Tours Ontario Treetop Trekking locations

PLAY IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF ONTARIO

Enjoy the great outdoors at Blue, ride the attractions on the mountain or shop and dine at Blue Mountain Village.

Blue Mountain Village Blue Mountain Resort

Does your dad like caving, hiking and incredible views? Scenic Caves Nature Adventures is a great place to explore the caves AND check out the view from the 420ft suspension bridge.

Explore Scenic Caves

SEND DAD ON A SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY FOOD TOUR

Indulge in a variety of flavours as you walk, sip and taste your way through some of the best eateries and shops in southern Georgian Bay. Each tour consists of 5-6 different locations and runs rain or shine-so please dress accordingly. Alcoholic pairings can be added for a nominal fee. Whether your dad is looking for a fun afternoon with friends or tasty new way to explore Collingwood, Creemore, Midland or Thornbury, these tours include great good, a touch of local history and of course, lots of laughter.

Book Now

EXPLORE CAVES & SCENIC VIEWS

Explore caves with Dad and take in picturesque views of The Blue Mountains and Collingwood. Situated within one of Canada’s eighteen UNESCO biosphere reserves and dating back 450 million years, our location is steeped rich in history and heritage. Explore new heights from the longest Suspension Bridge in Southern Ontario, or take in our Hiking Trail Centre offering 15 kilometers of trails meandering through 370 unspoiled acres of natural beauty. Experience the unique views of the 200 year old forest, with well-marked trails offering gentle rolling slopes to steep climbs, and expansive, world class views!

Learn More

TAKE DAD OUT FOR LUNCH OR A TREAT, ORDER HIM MAPLE SYRUP

Find a fun spot for a road trip near you and take your dad out for summer fish and chips or (and?) ice cream! Read out past blogs to easily find a place to try if you’re looking for something new.

If you’re 19+, read our blog about tips for visiting microbreweries in Ontario and have fun (safely) with Dad exploring some Ontario craft beers. The blog section contains YOUR list of favourite Ontario fish and chips places and also YOUR favourite Ontario ice cream shops. Does he love all things maple? Order him some Ontario maple syrup or maple products and have them shipped right to him.

SEND DAD TO FORAGE FOR MUSHROOMS

This immersive wilderness learning experience will bring your dad into the forest with a single delicious goal in mind: how to find, identify, and harvest wild edible mushrooms! This isn’t for every dad, but for those who love nature, being the woods and learning about Ontario’s wilderness, this is for him!

Book Dad's Mushroom Foraging Workshop

TAKE A HIKE, DAD!

We’ve all done a ton of hiking since the pandemic but this guided hike in Haliburton is extra special. Sign your father up to join a knowledgeable hiking guide for a 2-3 hour hike around the Barnum Creek Nature Reserve, learning about everything the region has to offer, and the rich history and stories of the area.

Book Dad a Hike

There are so many great things to get dads or do with dads this year.

Check out the ToDoOntario Events Calendar for events and experiences your dad might like and our list of summer getaway packages for more inspirational gift ideas.

May 14, 2024 Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka & Parry Sound, Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay & Lake Simcoe, Greater Toronto Area, Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley, Hamilton, Halton & Brant, Huron, Perth, Waterloo & Wellington, Kawartha Northumberland, Niagara Falls, Northeastern Ontario, Northwest Ontario, Sault Ste. Marie - Algoma, South Eastern Ontario, Southwest Ontario, York, Durham, Headwaters

Arts Orillia presents GATHERING: Festival of First Nations Stories

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13th, 2024

Arts Orillia presents GATHERING: Festival of First Nations Stories, May 31st and June 1st, 2024!

Don’t miss this anticipated event with award-winning authors, storytellers and musicians.

Everyone is coming to Rama First Nation as events kick off Friday, May 31st at 7 p.m. with a Story Welcome Circle at Rama Community Hall. Festival host Sherry Lawson and (Gimaa) Chief
Ted Willams will lead the community welcome for visiting authors and presenters Alicia Elliott, Armand Garnet Ruffo, Brandon Reid and Drew Hayden Taylor. You’ll also meet Rama First Nation’s own celebrated author and artist, Chief Lady Bird as well as award winning filmmaker Keesic Douglas.

But that’s not all! Stay for the party. Anishinaabe DJ and producer Boogey the Beat will hit the stage at 8 p.m. All the way from Winnipeg, this performer will build percussive heartbeats with
passion as he reminds audiences that, “at one time it was illegal for us to sing these songs, play these drums, and go to these ceremonies – now it’s a time for celebration, and for us to take over the main stage.”

Don’t stay up too late! On Saturday June 1st, the Sunrise Circle at Victoria Park in Rama starts at 5:30 a.m. and it’s followed by a comprehensive day of learning and entertainment back at Rama Community Hall, beginning at 9 a.m. Enjoy readings with our guest authors, and a session about Indigenous Governance with Christa Big Canoe and Julie Williams. You are also warmly invited to a screening of Welcome Home. A Healing Journey Back to Community created with members of Rama First Nation Binoojiinyag gaa bi giiwejig – Children Who Came Home. Arts Orillia is proud to bring our guest speakers to local elementary and secondary schools as part of Gathering: Festival of First Nations Stories.

See Arts Orillia’s website for a complete schedule. All events are free of charge, but making a reservation is encouraged, to secure your seat. Gathering is made possible through the generous support of private donors along with federal, provincial and corporate funders. Close to home, we would like to thank Mariposa Folk Foundation for its commitment to Indigenous music artists at Gathering: Festival of First Nations Stories. In addition, many thanks to our supporters at Orillia Community Foundation, City of Orillia, and Rama First Nation.

Media Contact: Kate Hilliard, Artistic Director: (416) 455-3657.

May 13, 2024 Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay & Lake Simcoe

Voyageur Quest makes it easy to Experience Algonquin

Learn How to Enjoy Algonquin Park With This Toronto Connection

Part of Algonquin Park’s appeal is its remoteness, seemingly a world apart from the urban sprawl of southern Ontario. It’s a vast wilderness – larger than Prince Edward Island – with so much to offer, every season holding its own distinct appeal.

Unfortunately, for some, the park’s distance from Toronto – three hours to the nearest entry points – represents an obstacle to enjoying this crown jewel of Ontario’s provincial park system.

But this needn’t be the case, thanks to Voyageur Quest.

Specializing in organizing excursions into the Algonquin’s interior, Voyageur Quest also makes it easy to get to the park by providing packages that include bus transportation. No car, no problem. It’s part of the company president Dave Langford’s mantra that the wilderness is for everyone.

Founded in 1991, Voyageur Quest has earned plaudits for offering a wide range of authentic guided and self-guided wilderness adventures in Algonquin Park, including moose safaris, winter snowshoe and dogsled excursions, and epic canoe trips into the most secluded, least visited parts of the park.

But these experiences aren’t merely for hardened adventurers. Voyageur Quest seeks to promote outdoor activities in Algonquin by smoothing out the edges of a typical camping experience. You don’t need to rough it to enjoy the wilderness. Voyageur Quests offers gourmet backwoods dining, for example, and as a basecamp guests enjoy a rustic, six-bedroom log lodge with a dining room wrapped around a huge stone fireplace, a lounge and library, hot showers and even a sauna.

World class adventure meets glamping, if you will.

To ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to access the park’s natural wonders, Voyageur Quest provides a shuttle to meet patrons at the South River bus terminals.

Ontario Northland’s Algonquin Park Bus departs twice daily return and departure routes from Toronto, while Northern Airport Passenger Service buses connect to Pearson International Airport. Both stop at South River, where Voyageur Quest’s vehicles meet guests to bring them to the Kawawaymog Lake cabin.

Voyageur Quest’s shuttle and pre-trip ‘transport’ package includes shuttle to and from the base camp, a BBQ dinner on the licensed patio, cozy lakeside cabin accommodations, and breakfast.

“About 90% of our shuttle and pre-trip transport’ packages are for our guided trips,” says Langford. “Our customers arrive the day before their trip. We pick them up at 230pm (Ontario Northland) or 530pm (Northern Airport Shuttle). Some of our self-guided (DIY) customers take advantage of the service—mostly international travelers who don’t want to rent a car and the odd solo traveller from the GTA who does not drive.”

In addition to offering guided adventures, Voyageur Quest also serves as an outfitter. The “complete outfitting” package is ideal for those coming by bus, as it includes all equipment and meals.

Voyageur Quest will also offer shuttle service to connect with South River trains once Ontario Northland resumes operation, scheduled for 2026.

Guests love the fact that Voyageur Quest bases its operation in the more remote, less trafficked northwest corner of Algonquin Park. It’s very different from the busier, more crowded Highway 60 Parkway Corridor. People come to Algonquin for wilderness – the hushed quiet of the forest, the mirror-like reflection of a smooth lake, the dusk call of a distant loon – and here they truly find it.

Voyageur Quest’s shuttle package makes your backwoods adventure more accessible, more convenient, and more comfortable.

“Personal pick up, in town, a nice dinner, a glass of wine, the quiet,” enthuses Langford, “is a great way to start your adventure.”

For more information and to book your adventure packages go to: Algonquin Park Adventures – Canoe Trips and Lodge Adventures (voyageurquest.com)

Article written by Andrew Hind.

May 2, 2024 Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka & Parry Sound, Featured