Historic blacksmith workshop
Join us for an immersive two-hour workshop at Discovery Harbour on Family Day weekend.
Learn historic blacksmith skills alongside a blacksmith instructor in a small group setting.
Dates and time
- February 14, 15 & 16, 2026
- 11:15 AM & 2:00 PM
Cost
Adults (15 years old+): $60.00 including tax
What is included
- safety briefing
- gloves, safety glasses, heat-proof apron, ear protection
- hands on instruction including blacksmithing techniques
- finalizing your take-home metalworks project
- Admission to Mid-Winter Social!
What do participants need to bring?
- steel-toed safety boots or shoes
What do participants need to wear?
- Shirt: Long-sleeved shirt made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen or wool (t-shirt is acceptable in warm weather)
- Pants: full-length pants made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen or wool (shorts are acceptable in warm weather)
- Approved Clothing Materials: cotton, linen or wool only
Please note: This event takes place in an outdoor shelter. Please wear layers and dress appropriately for the weather.
Q : What is the recommended group size and age for this program?
A: This program has a maximum capacity of four people with a minimum age minimum of 15 years old.
Q: Will there be accessible washrooms available?
A: Accessible washrooms are available at Discovery Harbour – at the King’s Wharf Theatre building and the HMS Tecumseth Centre.
Q: I have mobility issues or other challenges – am I able to attend this program?
A: Yes! We welcome people of all abilities to this program. Please reach out via email to Matt.Kelly@Ontario.ca in advance of your booking to discuss any specific concerns or requirements you may have.
Q: What happens if it rains/snows?
A: This program will run rain, snow or shine, and takes place under an open-sided shelter. Should the program need to be rescheduled for extreme weather events, alternative dates will be provided for you.
Q: What is your drug, alcohol and tobacco policy?
A: Alcohol and drugs will not be permitted at any time during this program. As our historic site is also a smoke-free establishment, we kindly ask there be no smoking during this program.
Q: Are you able to provide me with a pair of steel toe boots?
A: Steel-toed boots are not available at this time at Discovery Harbour, please plan accordingly.
Plan your visit
While we love our furry friends, we are not able to accommodate pets at this special event (service dogs are welcomed of course). Thank you for your understanding.
- Taking photos is encouraged
- Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on Discovery Harbour property
- Please note this event takes place mainly outdoors and, visitors should plan to dress accordingly for weather and terrain
How to get here
Parking info
Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way on foot through the black entrance gates to the boardwalk area and The Charthouse (Admissions building).
Need more info?
Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 549-8064 if you have any questions.
About Discovery Harbour
Discovery Harbour traces its roots back to the original British naval and military base in Penetanguishene, built to safeguard access to Upper Canada after the War of 1812.
“His Majesty’s Naval Establishment on Lake Huron”, (as it was first called) kept ships prepared to supply British posts to the northwest. By 1820, it was home to over 70 people, including sailors, officers, shipwrights, and soldiers. Five large ships, 15 smaller vessels, and numerous workshops and dwellings were built.
In 1828, a British garrison on Drummond Island was relocated to Penetanguishene. By 1834, Canada was defended exclusively by these forces. An impressive stone Officers’ Quarters was built in 1845. The military occupied the site until 1856.
Discovery Harbour is operated by Huronia Historical Parks, and is an Attraction of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
