Recent Updates

What Is the Great Backyard Bird Count?

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a global Community Science birdwatching event held every year in mid-February. In 2026, Canadians and travelers from coast to coast to coast are invited to take part. Supported by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, the GBBC brings together everyday travellers, families, and nature lovers to help scientists better understand bird populations and migration patterns.

Since 2013 the Great Backyard Bird Count has transformed into one of the world’s most accessible and influential wildlife events. Today, birdwatchers in urban centres, rural communities, local parks, and travel destinations across Canada contribute observations that support long-term conservation research. This is your chance to make a positive impact on bird conservation in North America!

How to Participate in Canada

1. Choose a location. No backyard? No problem. You can participate from a hotel balcony, the
window of your B&B, a local park, trail, or waterfront, a national or provincial park, or while
travling through urban or rural landscapes.
2. Observe birds anytime between February 13–16, 2026 for at least 15 minutes.
3. Identify all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool
for sharing your bird sightings:
If you are a beginning bird admirer and new to bird identification, try using the Merlin Bird ID
app to tell us what birds you are seeing or hearing.
If you have participated in the count before and want to record numbers of birds, try the eBird
Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website (desktop/laptop).
4. Submit your checklist on eBird and become part of a global conservation effort

A Flexible, Winter-Friendly and Accessible Nature Experience for Travelers

• Only 15 minutes or more of birdwatching is required
• Follow an easy, standardized counting method used by participants worldwide
• If you head outdoors, simply dress for the weather and enjoy Canada’s winter landscapes
• No birding experience or special equipment needed

This accessibility makes the GBBC ideal for families, casual travellers, photographers, students, and seasoned birders alike.

Why Your Observations Matter

• Data is verified by experts, ensuring scientific accuracy
• Findings help raise awareness about changes in bird populations and habitats
• In previous years, participants have reported nearly half of all known bird species worldwide
• Canadian observations support conservation across forests, wetlands, coastlines, and urban
green spaces.

Turn Your Winter Trip into a Meaningful Experience

Whether you’re exploring Toronto’s ravines, Vancouver’s coastal parks, Quebec’s wildlife areas, or prairie landscapes in Alberta and Manitoba, the Great Backyard Bird Count 2026 is a simple way to connect with nature and contribute to global conservation — wherever your travels take you.

Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show 2026: Canada’s Ultimate Outdoor Travel & Gear Event

If you love camping, hiking, paddling, travel, and exploring Canada’s wild spaces, the Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show is the must-attend event of the year. Each winter, thousands of outdoor enthusiasts gather to discover the latest gear, meet expert adventurers, and plan their next unforgettable trip.

Hosted at the The International Centre near Toronto Pearson Airport, this massive event brings together hundreds of outdoor brands, destinations, outfitters, and travel experts under one roof.

Whether you’re planning a backcountry canoe trip in Ontario, a hiking expedition in the Rockies, or your first family camping adventure, this show is designed to inspire and equip Canadian adventurers.

Event Details

Event: Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show
Dates: February 20 – 22, 2026
Location: The International Centre – Hall 5
Address: 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, Ontario

Show Hours

* Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
* Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
* Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tickets

* Adult: $16 online / $18 at the door
* Weekend Pass: $20 online
* Senior Friday Ticket: $12
* Children 11 and under: Free

Buying tickets in advance online is recommended as this is one of Canada’s most popular outdoor events.

What You’ll Experience

- 300+ Outdoor Exhibitors

- Explore more than 320 exhibitors showcasing the latest gear, trips, and outdoor innovations including:

* Camping equipment and glamping gear
* Canoes, kayaks, and paddle sports
* Hiking gear and outdoor apparel
* Adventure travel destinations
* Scuba diving experiences
* Cycling and backcountry gear
* Canadian tourism organizations

- Many brands offer exclusive show pricing and pre-season deals you won’t find anywhere else.

Inspiring Speakers & Adventure Presentations

The show features 100+ expert presentations and live talks designed to help you plan your next adventure. Topics often include:

* Backcountry canoeing routes in Canada
* International adventure travel
* Hiking the world’s most iconic trails
* Outdoor photography
* Wildlife and wilderness skills
* First-time camping tips

These sessions feature well-known adventurers, explorers, and outdoor personalities sharing real experiences and practical advice.

Interactive Adventure Zones

The Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show is known for its hands-on experiences, including:

* Indoor climbing wall
* Whitewater demo pool for paddling
* Camping showcases
* Outdoor skills demonstrations
* Travel planning theatres
* Family-friendly adventure zones

Visitors can test gear, learn new skills, and connect directly with experts.

Travel, Food & Atmosphere

Expect a lively festival atmosphere with:

* Food vendors and quick dining options
* Coffee stops for planning your next trip
* Travel lounges and destination booths
* Community outdoor clubs and organizations
* Meet-ups with fellow adventurers

It’s a great place to network, learn, and get inspired before the outdoor season begins.

Why Outdoor Enthusiasts Should Attend

The Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show is considered Canada’s largest showcase of outdoor gear and adventure travel experiences

Reasons people attend every year:

* Discover new outdoor destinations across Canada and the world
* Compare camping and adventure gear in person
* Meet guides, outfitters, and travel companies
* Attend expert-led talks and demonstrations
* Plan spring and summer adventures in one day

For Canadian explorers, paddlers, hikers, campers, and adventure travellers, it’s the ultimate way to kick off the upcoming season.

Quick Visitor Tips

* Buy tickets online to save money and skip lines
* Plan to spend at least 3–4 hours exploring the show
* Bring a backpack for brochures and gear purchases
* Check the speaker schedule in advance
* Arrive early for popular presentations

✅ If adventure is calling, this is where your next trip begins.
✅ https://www.ehcanadatravel.com/experience/campers-backpackers-paddlers-travellers-explorers-and-hikers-unite-at-the-outdoor-adventure-show-in-toronto-ontario.html

Mark your calendar and join thousands of outdoor lovers at the Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show 2026.

Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Victoria Park, London, Ontario, Canada

Kick off your holiday season in the heart of London Ontario at the Lighting of the Lights in Victoria Park!

On Friday, December 5, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, join locals and visitors for a magical evening filled with festive fun, live music, and a dazzling display of over 100,000 holiday lights that will transform the park into a winter wonderland.

Event Highlights:

Live Music & Entertainment
At 6:00 PM, enjoy the sounds of The Rockin’ Reindeer, featuring rising star John Fellner and local musicians. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

Capture the Moment
Snap a festive selfie at the 360° photo booth and send your holiday wishes directly to the North Pole at Santa’s Mailbox.

Delicious Treats & Hot Cider
Warm up with a cup of free hot cider courtesy of Farm Boy, and enjoy tasty offerings from a variety of food trucks. Farm Boy will also be collecting non-perishable food donations in support of Second Harvest.

The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For
At approximately 6:50 PM, join Mayor Josh Morgan and John Davidson (founder of Jesse’s Journey) for the ceremonial flip of the switch, lighting up Victoria Park with thousands of sparkling lights. This stunning display will include festive scenes like Santa and his reindeer, a Christmas train, and a cheerful snow family.

Victoria Park will continue to glow with holiday magic every evening through January 16, 2026.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the Holly Jolly Holiday Market is back for its fourth year of festive fun! Whether you're looking for unique gifts, delicious treats, or just the perfect holiday experience, this vibrant market has it all. From crafts to cocktails, and hot chocolate to horse rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Event Highlights:
Huge Christmas Tree in the Market Square
Outdoor & indoor food and artisan vendors featuring local delights
Christmas Cocktail Garden to enjoy festive drinks
Workshops including cookie decorating, ornament making, and letters to Santa
Horse & carriage rides through the holiday lights
LED lounge + swings for a playful outdoor experience
Live music & entertainment by local bands
Pictures with Santa – don’t forget to bring your camera!

Market Hours:
Fridays: 4 PM - 10 PM (Outdoor & upstairs mezzanine)
Saturdays: 10 AM - 9 PM (Outdoor & upstairs mezzanine)
Sundays: 10 AM - 5 PM (Outdoor & upstairs mezzanine)

Important Notes:
On Fridays and Saturdays after 7 PM, access the mezzanine via the King Street elevator or stairwell to enjoy live music, indoor seating, washrooms, and more vendors.

Come for the shopping, stay for the festivities! Bring your friends, family, and a holiday spirit ready to be filled with joy. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor atmosphere, warming up inside, or capturing a magical moment with Santa, Covent Garden Market’s Holly Jolly Holiday Market promises to be an unforgettable experience this season. See you there!

The CPKC Holiday Train 2025 is on the move!

The CPKC Holiday Train will be making a stop at the train tracks near the intersection of Richmond Street & Piccadilly Street in London, Ontario, on November 21st, 2025 from 8:30 PM - 9 PM! Join in the festivities, bring a food donation, and help support a worthwhile cause!

The 2025 CPKC Holiday Train will tour Canada and the US from Nov 19, 2025 to Dec 21, 2025 raising money, food, and awareness to support food banks across the continent. Professional musicians, including American Authors, Barenaked Ladies, Smash Mouth, JJ Wilde and more are playing free concerts from the train this year, adding to the festivities at each stop.

CPKC donates to the local food bank at each stop and encourages all attendees to make a monetary or heart-healthy food donation. This is the 27th anniversary of the festive Holiday Train spreading good cheer and making a difference to a worthwhile cause. Be a part of this important holiday tradition!

To learn when this special holiday train might be visiting a community near you, please check out the CPKC Holiday Train website.

2025 Hyde Park Santa Claus Parade, London, Ontario

Experience the Magic of the Holidays at the Hyde Park Santa Claus Parade in London, Ontario!
Get into the festive spirit with the annual Hyde Park Santa Claus Parade, one of London, Ontario’s most cherished holiday traditions! Join thousands of spectators for a fun-filled, family-friendly event that lights up the streets of Hyde Park with holiday cheer.

Date: November 22, 2025
Time: 10:00 am start
Location: Starts at Sherwood Forest Mall. Heads west on Gainsborough Rd to Hyde Park Road.

This vibrant parade showcases beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, talented performers, and of course, the grand arrival of Santa Claus himself! It's the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones while enjoying the festive atmosphere and community spirit.

Brought to you by the Hyde Park Lions Club in partnership with the Hyde Park Business Improvement Association (Hyde Park BIA), this year's theme is paws, Claus, and Christmas cheer. Families are encouraged to bring along food donations to help other families facing unprecedented challenges in our community this holiday season. A volunteer team of happy Elves will be on site to collect donations from spectators.

Letters to Santa

The Hyde Park BIA and the Hyde Park Lions are also inviting you to write a letter to Santa! Let Santa know how you've helped out in your community this year, and he'll write a letter back. Paper letters will be accepted along the route, or you can send your letter to Hyde.Park.Santa.Letter@gmail.com.

Enjoy a variety of activities, including photo ops with Santa, holiday music, and warm treats along the parade route. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, the Hyde Park Santa Claus Parade offers an unforgettable holiday experience for all ages. Come out and help celebrate the festive season!

The Christmas Truce of 1914: A WWI Holiday Story

Step back in time to 1914 and experience the moving story of the Christmas Truce, when soldiers on opposite sides of World War I temporarily laid down their weapons to celebrate the holiday together. Hosted by Fanshawe Pioneer Village in partnership with the History Matters Association, this special outdoor event brings history to life with reenactments, historical storytelling, and immersive experiences.

On this guided walking tour, you and a small group will visit four unique historical spaces and explore a replica WWI trench. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of soldiers' lives during the Great War and witness the touching moments of the Christmas Truce. Along the way, you'll learn about the hardships of war, the camaraderie that transcended conflict, and how humanity found a moment of peace during one of the darkest times in history.

Event Highlights:
• Historical Reenactments: Experience scenes from the Christmas Truce, complete with battlefield sound effects and dramatic performances.
• WWI Trench: Walk through a carefully crafted replica of a WWI trench and learn about the daily realities of soldiers.
• Outdoor, Nighttime Experience: The tour takes place in low lighting and uneven terrain, so be sure to dress warmly for winter weather. This is an all-ages event, but note that it involves sound effects and discussions of war.
• Community Spirit: The event is an inclusive experience, reflecting the cooperative nature of the truce and the local community spirit.

Ticket Information:
• Ticket Price: $22.00 (plus tax and Eventbrite fees)
• Tour Times: 6:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:00 p.m.
• Tour Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes

Additional Information:

Accessibility: The event is outdoor and includes uneven ground. Persons with disabilities are welcome to bring one support worker free of charge. Please contact the Public Programming Coordinator to reserve a free ticket.

Weather: The event will take place regardless of weather conditions. Please dress appropriately for the cold.

Pre-Tour Experience: Enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa (dairy-free options available upon request) and browse WWI artifacts inside the Spriet Family Visitor Centre before or after your tour.

Parking: Free parking is available at the Visitors Parking Lot. Accessible parking is also provided near the Spriet Family Visitor Centre.

Check-in: Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Check-in will take place inside the Spriet Family Visitor Centre, which is located beside the entrance to the Heritage Village.

Important Note: Entry to the event is via the back entrance at 2609 Fanshawe Park Road. Please do not use the main gate at Clarke Road.

Canada's largest showcase of outdoor gear and adventure travel experiences in coming to TORONTO! I'm planning on heading there February 21st or 22nd, and I CAN'T WAIT!

Why? Because there are over 320 exhibitors offering the latest camping gear, paddle sports, outdoor clothing, scuba diving and adventure travel destinations.

Did you Know? There are over 100 adventure presentations being offered over the course of the weekend as well!

When: February 21-23, 2025
Where: International Centre, Toronto

How much? About $17 per person, or get a weekend pass for $21

Join in on the fun February 17th, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre for an action-packed afternoon filled with FREE activities! A day of fun and spending quality time together on Family Day!

A variety of activities including:

Arena
- Lorna Willis & Lynn Wyminga Sponsored Public Skate from 12:00-2:00pm
- Canteen will be open for food purchases

Parking lot
- Loyalist Emergency Services Truck Tours & Giveaways

Library
- Temporary Tattoo Station
- Colouring Station
- Lego Station
- Bouncy Castle from Lucky Inflatables
- Just Dance
- Photobooth from Photobooth Kingston.

Winter Wonders Royal Botanical Gardens

Date: December 15, 2024 - January 7, 2025 (Open Thursday to Sunday)

Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Event Description:

Experience the magic of the season at the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Winter Wonders! Hendrie Park transforms into a captivating winter wonderland, where dazzling lights, festive installations, and enchanting displays create an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. Stroll along scenic pathways adorned with millions of twinkling lights, while the sounds of festive music fill the air. Enjoy the warmth of holiday treats as you wander through the illuminated gardens, guided by the glow of stars and twinkling lights.
Indoors, the magic continues as the Mediterranean Garden and Breezeway come alive with seasonal décor and vibrant plant displays that offer a burst of colour and warmth against the winter chill. The highlight of the event is the whimsical Botanical Train Display, where model trains wind their way through beautifully crafted scenes of iconic Canadian landmarks, from coast to coast.
Be sure to stop by the RBG Gift Shop, where you’ll find unique seasonal treasures, perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes. Whether you're enjoying holiday treats, exploring festive displays, or finding the perfect gift, Winter Wonders offers something for everyone in a truly enchanting setting.

Ticket Information:

Adult $20 (+HST & $1 Service Fee)
Child (age 3 to 12) $16 (+HST & $1 Service Fee)
Infant / Toddler (age 0-2) FREE

Timed-tickets required. This is a time-ticketed experience. Upon registration you will be required to select an entry time.

Join us for an evening of seasonal cheer and festive magic at Winter Wonders – an experience you won’t want to miss!

The CPKC Holiday Train 2024 is on the move!

The CPKC Holiday Train will be making a stop at the train tracks near the intersection of Richmond Street & Piccadily Street in London, Ontario, on November 24th, from 8:30 PM - 9 PM! Join in the festivities, bring a food donation, and help support a worthwhile cause!

The 2024 CPKC Holiday Train will tour Canada and the US from Nov 21, 2024 to Dec 20, 2024, raising money, food, and awareness to support food banks across the continent. Professional musicians, including American Authors, Alana Springsteen, Tyler Shaw and more are playing free concerts from the train in this year, adding to the festivities at each stop.

CPKC donates to the local food bank at each stop and encourages all attendees to make a monetary or heart-healthy food donation. This is the 26th anniversary of the festive Holiday Train spreading holiday cheer and making a difference to a worthwhile cause. Be a part of this important holiday tradition!

To learn when this special holiday train might be visiting a community near you, please check out the CPKC Holiday Train website.

Looking for some family-friendly fun this holiday season? Christmas at the Village is a great way to kick off the holiday season with some family-friendly fun at Fanshawe Pioneer Village. Explore the decorated heritage village, participate in outdoor winter games, try your hand at festive holiday crafts, and learn about the cherished traditions of the past. Who knows? You may even bump into jolly old St. Nick!

Admission: Adults: $12
Seniors/students: $10
Children: $7 (ages 4-16)
No pre-registration

This is an outdoor event, so please dress warmly!

Free One-Day Provincial Park Access is on Friday, July 19th at 75 Parks in Ontario Canada.

The Ontario government is offering free day-use access on Friday, July 19, to mark Healthy Parks Healthy People Day.
This annual celebration is part of a global movement to promote the incredible health benefits of getting outside in nature.
As the largest provider of outdoor recreational opportunities in the province, Ontario Parks offers programs and facilities to enjoy
nature year-round – in most parks, you can go hiking, cycling, paddling, swimming and more.
The Ontario government is enhancing those recreational opportunities by building 300 new campsites and bringing electrical services to
800 existing campsites at several parks throughout the province, the largest addition of new and electrified campsites in Ontario Parks’ history. Since 2018, the province has invested $55.4 million to help maintain and build more facilities including roofed accommodations in provincial parks to help meet the demand of the province’s growing population, while ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Throughout the summer, Ontario Parks offers numerous ways to engage with nature including:
In-park Discovery Programs allow kids and adults to gain confidence in nature and wildlife through guided
hikes to explore a new trail and other educational programs.
The 30x30 Nature Challenge encourages people to spend 30 minutes in nature for 30 days during August.
Take a Hike Day on August 10, providing guided hikes at provincial parks around the province. Visitors can join in on one of the many
events happening across the province.
To guarantee access to Healthy Parks Healthy People Day, visitors are strongly encouraged to obtain a daily vehicle permit up to five days
before the celebration, at no charge, for the 75 parks that offer this service.

Take part in a special one-day celebration, Healthy Parks Healthy People, on July 19th, when Ontario Parks will welcome visitors with free entry. Enjoy a complimentary day pass to explore your local Ontario Provincial Park, use the facilities, and participate in fun events until 10 pm.

Please note that while general park access is free, fees for camping, equipment rentals, and swimming pool use at Bronte Creek and Earl Rowe provincial parks will still apply.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Ontario's parks!

There's a new film festival on the Edmonton scene this year. YIKES! Film Festival is two days of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, thriller, and mystery short and feature films. The vibe is less of the stuffy red-carpet type and more of a casual night hanging out with friends. In fact, YIKES! promises to be a terrifying fun time and a hit on the Alberta horror, sci-fi, thriller and mystery movie scene.

In addition to the carefully curated film schedule that focuses on creating the ultimate moviegoer experience, YIKES! has exclusive spooky vendors, merchandise, and giveaways. There are opportunities built into the schedule to grab something to eat and a drink. Each evening caps off with live music preformed by a local band.

Independent Filmmakers from Canada and abroad submitted their works for consideration by the festival. Their hope, to win their category grand prize of $100.00 CAD and to take home the coveted Hands of Horror trophy!

Tickets are $12 a day and include:
- Access to the Festival
- Film Screenings
- Live Music
- Exclusive Event Vendors
- Exclusive Event Merchandise

Thursday Nov 16 6pm - 10:30pm with music by the comedy band, Success 5000
Friday Nov 17 6pm - 10:30pm followed by live music the Spanish Flies

The detailed film schedule is broken into two blocks each about 2 hours long. The blocks are made up of films that very from as shorts as just under a minute to almost 2-hours. The length and genre of each show is listed so festival goers can choose which films they want to see.