Winter sure has settled in.
While I admit I'm more prone to hibernation than outdoor activity at this time of the year, it is nice to see many of the traditional winter activities in full swing across the region. We are lucky to live in this part of North America, where great skiing, skating, ice-fishing and snowmobiling options exist, historically, in abundance.
So if getting outside in the cold is your thing, get at it. Because you never know when the next thaw will arrive.
Here’s what’s happening in Bradford and Innisfil in the coming days:
Hit the outdoor ice in Bradford
The town has outdoor rinks that are in great condition right now, at Lions (226 Colborne St.) and Bud Brown (7 Dixon Blvd.) parks. The surfaces are open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., weather dependent. No hockey sticks, pucks, balls, chairs or strollers are permitted on the ice at any time. Outdoor rinks are unsupervised in Bradford, so users assume all risks when participating in skating activities.
Ditto for Innisfil
Bradford’s northern neighbour also has outdoor skating at Cookstown Community Park (20 Church St.) and the Town Square trail (971 Innisfil Beach Rd.). Cookstown operates from dawn to 11 p.m. daily from December to March, weather permitting. The Town Square trail provides 240 metres of ice-skating surface each day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. For rules and other information, visit innisfil.ca.
Drop-in family storytime
Join staff at the Lakeshore branch of the Innisfil ideaLAB and Library (967 Innisfil Beach Rd.) Saturday, Jan. 18 for the next instalment of this weekly family event. Expect an hour of stories, songs, crafts and playtime. Get to know other families in your community while nurturing your child's love of books and reading. All ages are welcome, though it is considered most suitable for kids six and under. This event is free, it runs from 10 to 11 a.m. and no registration is required.
English conversation circle
If you’ve ever wanted to take the step of improving your language skills in a fun and supportive environment, drop by the Lakeshore library on Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m. Led by YMCA newcomer services personnel, the free circle provides a welcoming and inclusive space for learners of all levels. No registration is required, just stop in.
A Playapalooza adventure
The Innisfil library’s Lakeshore branch will host Playapalooza on Saturday from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. From hands-on crafts and engaging STEAM activities to family movies and games, an adventure is waiting to unfold. All ages are welcome to this free event. No registration is required.
Got an upcoming event or news tip to share? Send it to [email protected].
