Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce

Senior's Free Ham Dinner
2025-11-12 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Toronto) | Port Carling Community Centre

MA&C Holiday Market
2025-11-14 | MAC ON MAIN, 63 Manitoba St, Bracebridge, ON, P1L 1S6, Canada
Join us at the Holiday Market to celebrate Muskoka’s finest arts and Crafts! Featuring local talented juried artisans, festive music, and a cozy hot cocoa station. Support local makers and find one-of-a-kind gifts perfect for the season. Celebrate creativity, community, and the joy of the holidays! Runs from now until January

Pratts Annual Christmas Market
2025-11-15 10:00 - 2025-11-16 16:00 | Pratt’s Garden Centre, 3233 Muskoka District Road 169, Bala, Ontario, P0C 1A0, Canada
The most magical weekend of the year is almost here!

Join us at Pratt’s Annual Christmas Market — November 15–16, 10–4 daily!

Enjoy a festive day filled with local vendors, family photos, pet-friendly fun, and the cozy charm of the holidays.

All in support of the OSPCA — helping pets in need this Christmas season.

Pratt’s Garden Centre, Bala

Bring the whole family (pets included!)

Acrylic Painting Class For Wahta Members
2025-11-15 11:30 - 15:00
The Wahta CHC is hosting an Acrylic Painting Class next Saturday, November 15th with visiting artist Faith Katsiró:te Wilson from Six Nations. Faith will be leading it along with a friend Rako’nikonhrakátste who was a teacher in Kanyenke’ha, for extra language and support. We are extending the invitation to the workshop to the entire Wahta community, to promote all members of the community to come together regardless of age.

Please Note: This is for Members of Wahta Mohawk First Nation only (living on or off territory).

The theme of this painting class is the Thanksgiving Address, the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen. We will be breaking up into groups and doing a painting for each of the parts of the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen.

Includes:
– All painting materials, canvases, and lunch
-Ages 13+
– All skill levels welcome
– Children 12 and under welcome to come with a participating adult

Register by emailing erin.nicholson@wahtamohawks.ca or kyle.pittman-gates@wahtamohawks.ca

Bala Santa Claus Parade
2025-11-15 13:00 - 17:00
Save the date!!

Santa is coming to Bala on Saturday November 15th! Parade starts at 1pm. Also, Santa will be at the community centre after the the parade to meet all the kids!!

Skating will also be happening across the street at the arena!

Pretzel Logic: Tribute to Steely Dan Concert
2025-11-15 19:30 - 22:30 | Bala Legion, 1011 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0

Christmas Open House
2025-11-21 10:00 - 2025-11-23 17:00
HillTop Interiors has been transformed into a Snowy & Bright Wonderland, and we now eagerly await your arrival to celebrate this year’s Christmas Open House.

Come enjoy a personalized shopping experience Friday November 21st, through till Sunday November 23rd from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

All guests will receive 20% off all weekend long!

Housing First: It Takes a Village
2025-11-22 08:00 - 12:00

Very Merry Shopping at TWIG & Overboard Bala
2025-11-22 11:00 - 16:00 | Overboard & Twig, 3137 Muskoka District Rd 169, Bala, Ontario, Canada
Featuring: surprises, festive food, and shopping!
At Twig and Overboard Bala

Muskoka Business Week Events Nov 24-28
2025-11-24 08:00 - 2025-11-28 19:00
In Muskoka, Business Week is in November!
Shift Happens — and so does Business Week, as Muskoka moves to a new rhythm this fall.
Muskoka is making a bold business move: this year, Business Week shifts to November!
For all events across Muskoka, please visit muskokabusinessweek.ca
From November 23 to 28, 2025, Muskoka Business Week will showcase innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship through events across the region. The shift from October’s Small Business Week gives local employers, especially in tourism and trades, a better chance to participate after the busy fall season.
“Shifting Business Week to November is our answer to local businesses who said October is just too busy,” said Norah Fountain, Executive Director of the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce and project lead for the week’s flagship Shift Happens conference. “We’re changing things up to suit our region — and to celebrate the success and resilience of Muskoka businesses.”
The week’s highlight is the Shift Happens Conference on Thursday, November 27 (9am–12pm) at the Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame. The half-day event features Canada’s Small Business Professor Brad Poulos and a panel with Jennifer Davies (Pratt’s Lawn Care & Garden Centre) and Chandler Joliffe (Cedar Canoe Books), offering fresh ideas for business growth and adaptability.
Events throughout the week include a Contractors’ Boot Camp in Bala, sector circles, networking sessions, a trivia night fundraiser, and more. Business owners and community members are encouraged to join, learn, and connect.
“Muskoka’s business community is the heart of our local economy,” said Jeff Lehman, Chair of the District of Muskoka. “This week celebrates the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that define our region.”

Contractor Shift Workshop: From Tradesperson to Business Owner
2025-11-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Bala Community Centre, 1008 Maple Ave, Bala, Ontario, P0C1A0, Canada
Join Rick Harris of Work Boot Consulting for a practical, no-nonsense workshop designed for contractors and tradespeople ready to take control of their business. Learn actionable strategies for leadership, financial management, and process development to help you make the shift from working in your business to working on your business.
Tickets on Sale Now | $20 +HST (includes light food & refreshments)
Event Agenda (topics & times subject to change)
9:00 AM-9:15 AM Welcome & Orientation
9:15 AM – 9:45 AM Activity # 1: Your Time is Your Business
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM Activity # 2: Price like An Owner – Markup vs. Margin: Why it Matters
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM Networking & Refreshment Break
10:30 AM – 11:00AM Special Guest: Paul Meyers, PM Consulting

Who is Paul? A digital marketing specialist since 2016, focused on contractor growth in Ontario PM Consulting+1PM Consulting+1
What he brings: Insight into PM Consulting’s Contractor Success System—local SEO, ads, CRM automation, and lead tracking built specifically for trade businesses PM Consulting
Why it matters: Learn how to gain more qualified leads, smooth estimate-to-job conversions, and reliable pipelines

11:00 AM – 11:30 AM Activity #3: Estimating & Billing That Works
11:30 AM – 11:55 AM Wrap-Up & Roadmap
11:50 AM – 12:00 PM Final Q&A & Closing Remarks

Thank you to our Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors: The District of Muskoka and RBC Wealth Management, Investment Advisor Alison Gaudet
Bronze Sponsor: Netspectrum
Event Sponsors: IION, Employment North, and Marquee Benefits
Community Partners: Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, Hunstville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, Muskoka Futures, Southeast Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce

Business After Hours at Port Carling Community Centre
2025-11-25 17:00 - 19:00 | Port Carling Community Centre
The Muskoka Lakes Chamber invites you to a special Business After Hours during Muskoka Business Week! Join us on Tuesday, November 25th from 5–7PM at the Port Carling Community Centre, proudly hosted by the Muskoka Lakes Township.
Step into an evening designed to bring our business community together to connect, inspire, and celebrate Muskoka’s businesses. Network with fellow professionals, share ideas, and spark new opportunities in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Looking to showcase your business? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to purchase a tabletop display and highlight your products or services to local leaders and peers.
It’s the perfect way to be part of Muskoka Business Week—don’t miss it!
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors: The District of Muskoka and RBC Wealth Management, Investment Advisor Alison Gaudet

Bronze Sponsor: Netspectrum
Event Sponsors: IION and Employment North
Community Partners: Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, Hunstville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, Muskoka Futures
Host Venue: The Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame & The Venue
If you have questions, or are interested in this Sponsorship Opportunity please contact: Andi Lakatos, Member Engagement Manager at andi@muskokalakeschamber.ca.

The Lake Joseph Club End of Year Sale
2025-11-26 10:00 - 17:00

Shift Happens Conference
2025-11-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame & The Venue, 1512 Muskoka District Road 118 West, Bracebridge, Ontario, P1L 1T4, Canada
We’re excited to introduce Shift Happens — a brand-new event as part of Muskoka Business Week. The goal of this half-day event is simple: to empower businesses, spark meaningful change, and foster authentic connection. Through a dynamic and engaging panel discussion featuring local entrepreneurs, and interactive elements like our “Unstuck Map” and “Reflect & Share” table discussions, attendees will explore how to get unstuck, think differently, and future-proof their businesses.
This morning is designed to be impactful — sharing real stories, fresh ideas, and valuable networking opportunities in an inspiring and collaborative setting. Join us for a morning breakfast as we gather to shift perspectives, spark ideas, and strengthen Muskoka’s business community.
Tickets on Sale Now | $25+HST (includes full breakfast buffet & refreshments)
Event Agenda (topics & times subject to change)
9:00 AM-9:35 AM Registration/Buffet Breakfast/ Open Networking
9:35 AM – 9:45 AM Opening Remarks
9:45 AM – 9:55 AM Keynote Speaker: Brad Poulos, Canadian Small Business Professor
9:55 AM – 10:30 AM Reflect & Share
10:30 AM – 11:05 AM Panel Discussion: Navigating Change as a Business Owner in Muskoka
11:05 AM – 11:15 AM Coffee/Snack & Networking Break
11:15 AM – 11:55 AM The Unstuck Map
11:55 AM – 12:00 PM Closing Remarks/ Final Thoughts

Thank you to our Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors: The District of Muskoka and RBC Wealth Management, Investment Advisor Alison Gaudet
Bronze Sponsor: Netspectrum
Event Sponsors: IION, Employment North, and Marquee Benefits
Community Partners: Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, Hunstville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, Muskoka Futures, Southeast Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce
Host Venue: The Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame & The Venue

MUSKOKA BUSINESS WEEK CONFERENCE, Shift Happens on Thursday
2025-11-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame & The Venue, 1512 Muskoka District Road 118 West, Bracebridge, Ontario, P1L 1T4, Canada
Tickets still available for the Muskoka Business Week Conference Thursday, Nov. 27 at Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame.
Hear from Canada’s Small Business Professor Brad Poulos, key note speaker, who will also host a fireside chat with local business leaders.
Tickets from $25 including breakfast (act fast as there are some 2-4-1 tickets)
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/muskoka-business-week-conference-shift-happens-tickets-1676572777309?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Minettones Community Christmas Kitchen Party
2025-11-28 19:00 - 21:00 | Peninsula Recreation Centre, 1131 Juddhaven Rd, Minett, Ontario, P0B 1J0, Canada
Join The Minettones for a night of carolling! The Peninsula Lions Club Christmas Tree Light and Community Reception to follow.

Pop Up Studio Event - NEIGHBOURS HOLIDAY MARKET
2025-11-29 00:00 - 2025-11-30 00:00
Showcasing JFeist Fine Art Studio and AMAW Wood Decor,
1843 and 1844 Muskoka Beach Road, Bracebridge.
WHEN: November 22, 23, 29 & 30, December 6 & 7 from 10 – 4 p.m.
Featuring original Fine Art paintings & art cards by Janice and
Handmade one-of-a-kind creations from reclaimed wood, by Amanda. Unique clocks, coasters, charcuterie boards and more. *Added bonus, come and meet our guest artists!
www.janicefeist.com
amaw-wood-decor.squaresite
@amawwooddecor

Christmas Market at Muskoka Discovery Centre
2025-11-29 10:00 - 2025-11-30 16:00 | Muskoka Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst, Ontario, P1P 1Z9, Canada
Mark your calendars for Sat Nov 29 & Sun Nov 30 starting at 10am
The holidays are coming to Muskoka! Join us for the 3rd Annual Christmas Market at the Muskoka Discovery Centre. Browse local artisan goods, enjoy festive décor, and meet Santa. Something for everyone – family fun included!

Christmas Market at Muskoka Discovery Centre
2025-11-29 10:00 - 2025-11-30 19:00 | Muskoka Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst, Ontario, P1P 1Z9, Canada
The holidays are coming to Muskoka! Join us for the 3rd Annual Christmas Market at the Muskoka Discovery Centre. Browse local artisan goods, enjoy festive décor, and meet Santa. Something for everyone – family fun included!

BSDA's Holiday Spectacular
2025-11-29 11:00 - 15:00 | Rene Caisse Theatre, Rene Caisse Theatre, Bracebridge
Get ready to be amazed as the Bracebridge School of Dance Arts takes the stage for their dazzling winter show, The BDSA Spectacular at The Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre.
Experience the energy, talent, and creativity of BDSA’s incredible dancers in a performance that celebrates the magic of movement and the joy of the season.
Don’t wait- tickets for this show sell FAST!
​11:00am show: Tickets $30 (+HST), $20 (child, +HST)
3:00pm show: Tickets $30 (+HST), $20 (child, +HST)

Rawley Resort, Spa and Marina's 3rd Annual Holiday Market
2025-11-29 11:00 - 16:00 | Rawley Resort, Marina and Spa, 2900 Kellys Rd, Port Severn, Ontario, L0K 1S0, Canada
Celebrate the holiday season at Rawley Resort’s 3rd Annual Holiday Market! Browse a curated selection of unique goods from talented local artisans.
FREE ENTRY

AI Digital Literacy for Everyone: Understanding and Using AI Safely in Your Daily Life
2025-11-29 13:00 - 14:00 | Port Carling Library, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, Ontario, P0B 1J0, Canada
Come to our Port Carling branch on Saturday November 29th from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. for an engaging hour with Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert, Dr. Ainslie Harris, founder of Zivo. Based in Bracebridge, Dr. Harris brings over 20 years of international leadership experience in media, technology, and operations and a deep commitment to making complex technical concepts accessible to non-technical adults. Her passion for helping people feel informed and empowered by technology drives Zivo’s mission to ensure no Canadian is left behind as AI reshapes how we work and live. Participants will receive free access to Zivo’s AI Essentials online course, with the opportunity to earn a certificate of completion.
Please register for this event by calling 705-765-5650 or emailing info@mlpl.ca.

Wreath Workshop
2025-11-29 14:00 - 16:00 | Simply Cottage, 339 Ecclestone Dr, Bracebridge, ON, Canada
Seasons in the Country will be joining us for an Evergreen Wreath Workshop!
Learn how to create your own beautiful wreath, perfect for the holiday season.
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
$60 per person • 8 spots available
Call 705-646-2828 to reserve and pay for your spot.
simplycottage.com

Port Carling Santa Claus Parade
2025-11-29 18:30 - 21:00
The Port Carling Lions Club Santa Claus parade will be held November 29, 2025 starting at 6:30pm.
The parade runs from Ferndale Rd to Bailey Street.
Visit with Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and hot dogs at the Community Centre immediately after the parade.
Do you want to enter a float in the parade? Please do! Contact us for all the information needed. portcarlinglions@gmail.com

Transform Your Digestion and Elevate Your Well-being with Our Ayurveda Workshop
2025-11-30 11:30 - 15:30
Join our transformative workshop designed to empower you with ancient wisdom and practical tools for a healthier life!
What Awaits You:
1.15h gentle session filled with hands on practice, including guided breathing exercises and yoga, designed to enhance your digestive power.
Delight in a nutritious Ayurvedic Lunch that aligns with the principles of optimal digestion and balance.
Receive a personalized test to evaluate your digestion, and assess toxin levels in your body, providing you with insights tailored to your unique needs.
Introduction to Ayurveda, different states of metabolism, food guide and food combining.
This workshop is perfect for anyone curious and eager to learn the time tested Ayurvedic practises that have been in reaching lives for over 5000 years.
Brace the opportunity to transform your health and well-being with the power of Ayurveda. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey to a healthier, more vibrant you ! Email: magdajustbe@icloud.com if you have any questions.

Public Skating Bala Sports Centre
2025-11-30 13:00 - 14:20 | Bala Arena, 1009 Maple Ave, Bala
Bala Sports Centre (Arena)
Saturday & Sundays, 1:00 – 2:20 PM • Runs through the end of March
Closed on all public holidays.
Spend your Saturday & Sunday afternoons on the ice! Join us for community public skating at theBala Sports Centre (Arena). Perfect for families, friends, and solo skaters looking for some fun and exercise.
Details at a glance

When: Saturday & Sundays, 1:00 – 2:20 PM
Where: Bala Sports Centre (1009 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0)
Cost: $3 per person
Season: Ongoing each week through the end of March
Closures: No skating on public holidays

What to know

Helmets are strongly recommended for all skaters.
Skate rentals are not available, please bring your own skates.
Please arrive a few minutes early to lace up and review rink rules.
All participants must wear skates on the ice surface
Wheelchairs & strollers are allowed on the ice provided the wheels have been completely cleaned & inspected by an arena staff worker. All participants using wheelchairs or strollers are asked to skate around the perimeter of the rink. Children in strollers must be safely secured.

Questions?
Email the Bala Arena or call directly at 705-765-5725

Tech 1-On-1
2025-12-01 14:00 - 16:00 | Bala Community Centre, 1008 Maple Ave, Bala, Ontario, P0C1A0, Canada
Figuring out a new device? Giving video chat a try? If you’ve got a question about today’s technology, then we’re here to try and help! To book your 30 minute session with a staff member, between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at our Port Carling branch. Please send an e-mail to info@mlpl.ca or call 705-765-5650 with your technology concern, and to book your 1-on-1 session.

Move and Mingle
2025-12-01 14:00 - 16:45 | Bala Community Centre, 1008 Maple Ave, Bala, Ontario, P0C1A0, Canada
Join us at our Bala branch from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Mondays, for a relaxed indoor drop-in space. Walk a few laps indoors, sit and do a puzzle, play some cards or board games, or just enjoy a warm place to unwind. A Nintendo Switch will be set up after school for anyone who wants to play!
All ages welcome; light, easygoing activity—come and go as you like.

Children aged 9 and under must have a parent or guardian remain in the library for the duration of the program.

Stick and Puck Port Carling Arena
2025-12-01 15:30 - 16:20 | Port Carling Arena, 3 Bailey Street, Port Carling, Ontario, P0B 1J0
Port Carling Arena
Mondays, 3:30 PM – 4:20 PM
Wednesdays, 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM | 3:30 PM – 4:20 PM
Runs through the end of March
Closed on all public holidays.
Bring the family out for a fun and safe ice time! Family Stick & Puck provides an upbeat environment to build hockey skills together — from skating and puck control to passing and stick handling — all at your own pace.
Details at a glance

When: Mondays, 3:30 PM–4:20 PM | Wednesdays, 11:30 AM-12:20 PM + 3:30 PM-4:20 PM
Where: Port Carling Arena
Cost: $3 per person
Season: Weekly through the end of March
Closures: No sessions on public holidays

What to know

This is an informal, non-contact session.
Children must be accompanied on the ice by a guardian (18+).
Please share the ice fairly; no slap shots.
Sticks and pucks are encouraged.
Space is limited to ensure participant safety.

Required equipment

CSA-approved hockey helmet with full face shield (or cage)
Hockey gloves (minimum requirement)
Full equipment strongly recommended

Questions?
Email the Port Carling Arena or call directly at 705-765-5725

Canada Summer Jobs Virtual Info Session
2025-12-02 10:00 - 11:00
Applying for a Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) grant? Thinking about it. Join the Canada Summer Jobs 2026 MP Information session on:
VIRTUAL INFO SESSION DETAILS – WORTH YOUR TIME: COULD HELP YOU GET THE WAGE GRANT
Date: Tuesday December 2, 2025 (you must apply by Dec. 11 to be eligible). PRO TIP: APPLY EARLY and before 5PM EST (don’t get thrown off by the Pacific Time shown on application)
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Virtual via Teams Meeting
Language: English
RSVP via Email to ROBIN (tell her the Chamber sent you)
There will be a Service Canada representative attending and running the meeting and Robin from MP Aitchison’s office will be on hand to help as needed.
Should you know anyone who would wish to attend this session, please have them RSVP to ROBIN, to receive the Virtual meeting link.
