This winter, the Durham region is brimming with fun and unique activities for you and your family. So rather than spending your winter hibernating, I suggest staying active and making the most of this beautiful season. In the Durham region, we are particularly lucky to have numerous outdoor winter activities to participate in, especially compared to many regions of the GTA. Here are my top picks for what to do in Durham this winter:
Stocking Stuffer Madness
During the month of December, stop by the Courtice Flea Market for some holiday shopping and amazing savings. Taking place every Saturday and Sunday in December, the event runs from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM at 1696 Bloor St. in Courtice. For more information check out the Courtice Flea Market website or call 905-436-1024.
Get in the Christmas spirit
Whether or not you have your Christmas tree yet, Knox’s Pumpkin Farm is the perfect place to get in the Christmas spirit. Not only can you pick out the perfect Christmas tree, but you can also partake in numerous holiday festivities. Sit around the campfire and enjoy some Farmhouse mulled cider and classic Christmas carols, or schedule a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus who will be making a special appearance. Activities will be taking place every weekend in December up until Christmas.
Ski the slopes
The Durham region is lucky to have not just one, but numerous downhill ski slopes in the region. If you’ve never tried downhill skiing before, this is the perfect time to take lessons and become a master of the slopes. My favourite ski spot is Brimacombe in Bowmanville, home of the Oshawa Ski Club. Either buy a single lift ticket for the day, or if you plan on going a few times throughout the winter, you may want to consider a season pass. Nothing beats a day on the slopes followed by a hot cup of cocoa in the chalet.
Re-watch the classics
On those chilly winter nights nothing beats staying inside and watching a good movie. This winter, the Regent Theatre in Oshawa will be hosting a Classic Movie Night on the first Thursday of each month. The first showing of 2017 will be the beautiful and unforgettable movie Dr. Zhivago, on Thursday, January 5 at 7 PM. Admission is only 5 dollars, and children and students are free. Visit their website for more information.
Cheer on your local hockey team
No sport epitomizes the Canadian winter more so than hockey. This winter why not go to an Oshawa General’s game and cheer on our hometown team. The General’s are one of the best teams in the OHL and have made their way back up to the top of the league this season, so you’ll be sure to catch a good game. Who knows, you may be watching the next Bobby Orr or Eric Lindros, both former alumni of the Oshawa Generals.
Family Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe Day
Every January the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority hosts a Family Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe Day. Taking place at the Ganaraska Forest Centre in Campbellcroft, the day will begin with an introductory cross-country skiing lesson followed by a guided tour of the Ganaraska Forest (as well as free snowshoeing). Keep an eye on their website for dates and times.
Maple Syrup time
March can be a difficult time of the year, with winter lingering and spring not yet on the horizon. Beat the winter blues with a trip to the Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival, where you can indulge in some delicious pancakes and local maple syrup, as well as horse-drawn wagon rides. Tickets for the 2017 festival are not yet on sale, but you can complete a notification form on their website to be notified when the Purple Woods Conservation Area will be hosting next year’s festival.
I hope you make the most of this coming winter season. As you can see, there are many ways to remain active and engaged in the Durham region over the winter months. Please feel free to comment or add any events that I have not included.
Merry Christmas!
