Where winter comes alive at Discovery Harbour
Breathe in the crisp Georgian Bay air and step into a winter celebration like no other. The Mid‑Winter Social transforms the historic grounds of Discovery Harbour into a lively mix of glowing firepits, heritage experiences, delicious comfort food, and hands‑on adventures.
It’s winter the way it should be — cozy, active, joyful, and a little bit magical.
Experience winter at its best
A world of snow‑sparked fun — all in one place.
Bundle up for a day filled with interactive activities, creative workshops, charming treats, and unforgettable moments with family and friends. From the crack of a musket echoing through the cold air to the smell of popcorn drifting across the site, every corner offers something new to explore.
Whether you’re here to play, learn, snack, or just soak in the atmosphere, the Mid‑Winter Social feels like the ultimate long‑weekend escape.
Event highlights
Winter activity zones
Try hands-on crafts, explore kid-friendly challenges, warm up indoors, or dive into outdoor adventures. There’s something for every age — and plenty of surprises along the way.
Heritage brought to life
Watch historic skills in action or try them yourself. Let the past spark your curiosity and warm your imagination.
Fireside treats and seasonal snacks
Nothing beats the taste of winter: s’mores oozing with chocolate, steaming hot cocoa, fresh popcorn, and more. Perfect for warming your hands… and your heart.
Theatre + event combo tickets
Make it a whole-day destination: pair your visit with a live performance at the Kings Wharf Theatre and enjoy full admission to the Mid‑Winter Social.
Dates and hours
Saturday, February 14 — 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Sunday, February 15 — 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Monday, February 16 — 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Special Experiences (Add-ons)
Enhance your Mid-Winter Social experience with one of these unique hands-on activities:
Mini Blacksmith Workshop
$60.00 per participant
Craft your own keepsake using traditional blacksmithing techniques.
Ages 15+
Shot in History: Public Musket Firing
$20.00 per participant
Feel the power of history with a guided musket‑firing experience.
Ages 15+
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.
- Please allocate 15-30 minutes for parking and admissions. Parking is available at 93 Jury Drive
- Discovery Harbour is wheelchair accessible, however pathways may be snow covered
- There are several accessible parking spots near the main entrance of Discovery Harbour, but they fill quickly during this event. We recommend arriving early
- Taking photos is encouraged
- Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on Discovery Harbour property
- Light snacks will be available for purchase at the concession stand inside King’s Wharf Theatre
- Please note this event takes place mostly outdoors and, visitors should plan to dress accordingly for weather and terrain
93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene, L9M 1G1
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.
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 Tourism, Culture and Gaming.
