Winter Holiday Workshops
Looking for a creative way to kick off the holiday season? Join us at Discovery Harbour for one or both of two unique, hands-on workshops led by Tonya Pinkney of Blossom & Bundle. Create seasonal handmade gifts during A Handmade Holiday: Simmer & Sip on December 5 or celebrate the season with Return of the Light: A Winter Solstice Celebration on December 12.
Make the experience even more memorable with an overnight stay in one of our four-season waterfront cabins on the shores of Georgian Bay. Overnight guests receive two complimentary admissions to each workshop included in their package, making it easy to combine creativity, comfort, history, and natural beauty in one unforgettable getaway. Enjoy one workshop or both and make the most of your stay.
A Handmade Holiday: Simmer & Sip
Saturday December 5th, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Participants will create a collection of handcrafted, gift-ready seasonal blends, including a Winter Simmer Blend, Savoury Seasoning Blend, Sweet Holiday Spice Blend, and Herbal Tea Blend. Designed around the art of thoughtful handmade gifting, this workshop includes coordinating kraft labels, twine, and recipe or use cards for each blend, making every creation ready to share with family and friends.
Through shared learning and creative exploration, guests will leave with unique handmade gifts and a renewed sense of seasonal inspiration.
Cost: $60 per person or free with overnight booking
Return of the Light: A Winter Solstice Celebration Workshop
Saturday December 12th, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Participants will create a hand-poured wood wick candle, natural fire starters, and birdseed ornaments while exploring the traditions and themes of the Winter Solstice. This hands-on workshop offers a gentle and meaningful way to celebrate the season through light, warmth, reflection, and giving back to the land.
Through hands-on making and meaningful conversation, guests will deepen their connection to the season, the natural world, and one another while creating beautiful handmade pieces to take home.
Cost: $60 per person or free with overnight booking
About the Workshop
Tonya Pinkney is a Métis land-based educator who is passionate about reconnecting people with the land through hands-on learning, traditional knowledge, and seasonal teachings. She creates welcoming experiences that weave together Métis culture, native plants, nature-based wellness, and practical skills, helping participants of all ages build meaningful relationships with the natural world. Through storytelling, cultural teachings, and shared experiences, Tonya inspires others to slow down, learn from the land, and carry these traditions forward for future generations. Learn more here.
- Parking is available at Discovery Harbour, however some walking from the lot to the Charthouse is required
- Please arrive 15 minutes early to ensure time for check-in.
- Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on Discovery Harbour property.
- A support person accompanying a paying guest with a disability is eligible for free admission.
- Free admission programs for Indigenous peoples, Ontario Teachers, and Canadian Armed Forces do not apply to this limited-capacity experience.
- Season passes do not include this experience.
93 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene, L9M 1G1
Parking Info
There is ample parking for visitors including those with RVs and buses. Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way to Captain Roberts’ Table Restaurant, past the black gates.
Need more info?
Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 526-7838 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 Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.
