Warm Up with Winter Festivals and Events
With the holidays over and a brand new year barely begun, we are all longing to stretch our wings and celebrate the best that winter has to offer. The new year is a time to get moving, to fulfill our resolutions, and connect with family and friends. For the winter averse, it’s also a time to get cozy and dream of spring.
Whether you’re a winter lover and yearning to get outdoors in all weather, or are more interested in a cup of cocoa and a warm fire, this list of winter festivals and events is for you.
Celebrate Winter
Do you love winter and pushing yourself to get outdoors, no matter the weather? Celebrate winter at one of these frosty winter festivals.
Cobden Ice Fishing Derby
Where: Cobden
When: Feb. 7, 2026
Nothing celebrates winter more than spending the day out on a frozen lake! If you've ever wondered what a fishing derby is, find out at the Cobden Ice Fishing Derby the first Saturday in February. Taking place on Muskrat Lake near Cobden, this is where you can give ice fishing a try in a fun environment, or watch as teams compete for more than $20,000 in prizes. Get your tickets here.
Hike Haliburton – Winter Edition
Where: Haliburton
When: Feb. 7 to 8, 2026
This free event is about more than just hiking and integrates arts, culture, heritage and food and drink experiences into one fantastic weekend. Take part in over 20 guided and themed snowshoe hikes, demonstrations and events and work up a sweat this winter. Registration opens early January 2025.
Lanark Highlands Frosty Fling - Lanark
Where: Lanark Highlands
When: Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, 2026
The village of Lanark is the setting for this frosty event celebrating winter. Head to the Lanark & District Civitan Club or the Lanark Arena over the weekend to take part in skating parties, afternoon movies, and live entertainment. There is usually a sledding hill at the Civitan Club for little people to sled on.
Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival - Dorset
Where: Dorset
When: February 13 to 14, 2026
Gather together to watch the Snowball Parade, and learn about birds of prey before belting your hearts out at karaoke. Transform yourself with face painting, and document the day by donning zany outfits and fun props in the photo booth.
Frost and Fire Winter Festival - Perth
Where: Perth
When: Feb. 14, 2026
This winter event features everything you could ever possibly want from an old fashioned celebration of winter. Taking place in downtown Perth, Frost & Fire includes a range of activities from axe throwing to a scavenger hunt, outdoor art show, sledding, bowling, and more. Dig out the snowsuits and bring the kids for a full day of frosty fun in beautiful Perth.
Stoco Lake Sled Dog Derby - Tweed
Where: Tweed
When: March 8 to 9, 2025
This fun outdoor event will make you wish you knew how to mush! Watch sled dogs living their best lives running over snow-packed trails. Other events include skijoring, where competitors on skis are pulled by dogs. Celebrate the best of Canada's winter fun in Hastings County in March.
North Frontenac Winterfest – Plevna
Where: Plevna
When: Feb. 21, 2026
Buckshot Lake in Plevna is the snowy setting for this outdoor event! Join us for a skating party, lunch, kids’ activities, and local craft beer from Kick & Push Brewing Company. The event runs all afternoon from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.
Stay Cozy Events
Not into braving winter’s chill? No problem, stay cozy at one of these indoor events.
February Folkfest - Haliburton Highlands
Where: Haliburton Highlands
When: Feb. 1 to 28, 2026
This event takes place in various communities across Haliburton Highlands and is a celebration of talented musicians and community spirit, taking place across venues throughout the Haliburton Highlands. From folk and acoustic to pop and beyond, the festival features music of all genres, offering unforgettable performances that will brighten even the coldest winter days.
Comicon - Carleton Place
Where: Carleton Place
When: Feb. 16, 2026
Break out your inner superhero for this fun comic-inspired event at the Carleton Place Arena. This is a great time to get some reading material for snowy days. Costumes are optional, but recommended!
TIFF Film Circuit - Bancroft
Where: Bancroft
When: Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, 2026
Get cozy and bring on the popcorn with an International Film Festival movie presented at the Village Playhouse in Bancroft. Shows include Jane Austen Wrecked My Life, We Lend a Hand, and Sentimental Value. Tickets can be purchased from the website.
