After winter’s deep freeze, the early spring sun seems to feel extra warm as it shines down on us. Its inviting rays make us want to shed our jackets, breathe in the fresh air, and get our blood flowing a little faster. We know we aren’t the only ones who feel this way.

If you’re looking for ways to get outside to tap your toes, paddle hard, stretch your legs, and satisfy a need for speed this spring, check out one of these high-energy events taking place across Ontario’s Highlands.

Maple Weekend

When: April 1 to 2, 2023
Where: Participating sugarbushes across the region

Join maple syrup producers as they celebrate the maple harvest in Ontario! This free, family-friendly, two-day event is hosted by the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers' Association, and is the perfect way to celebrate spring and the annual maple syrup season, while learning more about how maple syrup is made, from tree to table. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find participating sugarbushes near you here.

MACKfest

When: April 14 to 16, 2023
Where: Marmora & Area Curling Club, Marmora

To some, the melting snow and ice signal one thing: the return of paddling season. Stretch your muscles and feel your spirit come to life as you kick off the beginning of the whitewater season with fellow paddlers during MACKfest. Whether you’re an expert or a novice, discover a river or play-spot suited to your skills in the Marmora area to paddle the weekend away, and join new and old friends to indulge in hearty meals and share stories around the campfire. 

Walk with a Hawk

When: Saturdays beginning April 29
Where: 1095 Redkenn Rd., Dysart et al

This experience will get your heart thumping! Join a licensed falconer for a walk through Haliburton Forest. Learn about birds of prey and learn all about these "wolves of the sky." Get up close and personal with this beautiful predator. 

BORCA Spring Chicken Enduro

When: May 12, 2023
Where: Beachburg Fairgrounds, Beachburg

Get your legs pumping and tires spinning during this mountain bike race organized by the Beachburg Offroad Cycle Association. Ease back into the biking season with the 32km loop or challenge yourself with the 60 km route, before heading to the fairgrounds to indulge in delicious food and refreshments during the 'Apres-Ride' BBQ.

Jock River Paddle

When: May 13, 2023
Where: 9th Line, Beckwith Township

Dip your paddle, push forward, and breathe in the fresh spring air as you spend the morning exploring 6.5 km of the Jock River on your way downstream to Ashton Brew Pub where you can refuel with lunch as you get to know other paddlers.

Hell or High Water

When: May 14, 2023
Where: Petawawa

Come to Petawawa to see Canada's largest whitewater race, right on the Petawawa River. Watch as whitewater kayakers, canoeists, paddle boarders and rafters compete downriver during the peak of the high water season. This event launches the Hell or High Water weekend in Petawawa, which features demos, racing, camping, clinics, and family events.

Front Porch Shenanigans

When: May 27, 2023
Where: Front Porches along the main streets of Stirling with additional activities at Farmtown Park, Black Dog Pub, the Stirling Fairgrounds, and St. Paul’s Church

Shimmy and shake away any winter vibes during the Porchfest portion of the event on Saturday, May 27 as the front porches of Stirling transform into stages featuring live local music. We bet this is one weekend you won’t be able to keep your toes from tapping.

Spring