Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce

Shift Happens Conference
2025-11-27 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto) | 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 | ON
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 | ON
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 | ON
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 | ON
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.

Stick & Puck Bala Arena
2025-12-03 16:30 - 17:20 | Bala Arena, 1009 Maple Ave, Bala
Bala Sports Centre (Arena)
Tuesdays, 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM | 4:30 – 5:20 PM
Thursdays, 4:00 – 4:50 PM
Fridays, 4:00 – 4:50 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:

Tuesdays, 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM | 4:30 – 5:20 PM
Thursdays, 4:00 – 4:50 PM
Fridays, 4:00 – 4:50 PM

Where: Bala Sports Centre (1009 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0)
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 Bala Arena or call directly at 705-765-5725

Knitting Group, Port Carling
2025-12-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Muskoka Lakes Library Port Carling, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, P0B1Jo, Canada
No need to knit alone! Drop in to the Port Carling branch on Thursdays, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. to share patterns, get inspiration, discuss your latest yarn project, or venture into book discussion and conversations with other knitters and needlecrafters of all abilities. Bring your project and get knitting! No registration required.
Please note that this is a self-led, drop-in program.

Jingle & Mingle Business After Hours at Savvy Community in Gravenhurst
2025-12-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Savvy Community Coworking Centre, 820 Muskoka Road S, Gravenhurst, Ontario, P1P 1K2, Canada
The Muskoka Lakes Chamber invites you to a festive Holiday Edition Jingle & Mingle Business After Hours hosted by Christie Buckley from Savvy Community! Step into the holiday spirit with cozy conversations, seasonal cheer, and plenty of networking magic.
Holiday sweaters and festive attire are encouraged so bring your sparkle (or your ugliest sweater!) and join us for an evening of connection, celebration, and community.
This year, we’re excited to welcome Mrs. Claus, and there will be a cookie-decorating station to add a sweet touch to the festivities!
It’s the perfect way to wrap up the year with great company, fresh ideas, and a little holiday fun. Don’t miss it!

Let's Get Crafty - Adult Card Making
2025-12-04 17:30 - 18:45 | Muskoka Lakes Library Port Carling, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, P0B1Jo, Canada
Come to the Port Carling branch from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. on Thursday December 4th to create some holiday cards with other crafty adults. All supplies and materials provided, just bring your creativity!
Please register for this event by calling 705-765-5650 or emailing info@mlpl.ca. Drop-ins accommodated only if space and supplies allow.

Lessons & Carols, Port Carling
2025-12-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Knox Presbyterian Church, 93 Joseph Street, Port Carling, ON, P0B1J0, Canada
Join us on Friday, December 5th @ 6pm
for Lessons & Carols

In support of Operation Winter Warmth(a community endeavour to provide winter jackets to those in need)

Knox Presbyterian Church
93 Joseph Street, Port Carling

Community dinner to follow
Freewill offering

Happy Holidays
2025-12-06 00:00 | ON
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Our Chamber staff can’t wait to serve you in 2026. Our office will be closed for a holiday break from December 24 to January 2. We’ll be back on January 4 and watch for your Membership Renewals that same week. Warmest wishes from your Chamber team.

Port Carling Legion Christmas Market
2025-12-06 09:00 - 15:00 | Port Carling Legion, Port Carling, On
Come on out and join us for a fun day. Local crafters and producers. Bake sale to support our Student Bursary program. Light lunch available from the kitchen 11:30am to 1:30pm. Spaces still available. rcl529pc@gmail.com. or messages, 705-765-5302.

Bala's Trek to Bethlehem
2025-12-06 18:00 - 20:30 | Bala Community Centre, 1008 Maple Ave, Bala, Ontario, P0C1A0, Canada
Tour the Trek – Starring an impressive cast!
-Fun for the whole family
-An outside walk, please dress for the weather
-No charge, donations welcome
-Refreshments after
-No pets allowed

For more information you can call 705-762-5663 or email thebalatrek@gmail.com

GODDO 50th Anniversary Tour
2025-12-06 19:30 - 20:30 | Rene Caisse Theatre, Rene Caisse Theatre, Bracebridge
Led by its legendary founder, singer/bassist GREG GODOVITZ, the all-new GODDO is now a powerfully dynamic 6-piece consisting of guitarists STEVE JENSEN and STEVE MACPHERSON, keyboardist DREW WINTERS, saxophonist GENE HARDY and original GODDO drummer MARTY MORIN.
This re-energized rendition of GODDO delivers new life and spirit to their classic hits like “So Walk On”, “Sweet Thing”, “Tough Times”, “Too Much Carousing”, “O Carole (Kiss My Whip)”, “Under My Hat”, “Pretty Bad Boy” and much more!
Free meet n’ greet after the show!

Tickets: $50 (+ fees)
​

BUY TICKETS

Bala Bay Divas: Fire & Ice
2025-12-06 20:00 - 23:30 | The Bala Bay Inn
Get ready for a sizzling night of Fire & Ice at the Bala Bay Inn Dec 6!
A fierce drag show with the Bala Bay Divas & Ty Dreams! ❄️✨
19+ event

Canada Summer Jobs Application Deadline Dec. 11
2025-12-06 21:00 - 2025-12-10 00:00 | ON
Be sure to get your applications in on December 11.
APPLY NOW > Click here to start
Pro Tips
a) Try to get them at least the day before if not earlier.
b) On the day, get your app submitted BEFORE 4pm ET (no matter what the application says about 11:59pm Pacific Time.
c) Offer more than the minimum wage of $17.60. The higher the pay, the more points your application will score.
d) Be sure to say Yes, you plan to retain the student after the end of the wage grant. YOu may only get a few weeks of grant and the question efers to retaining AFTER the grant period, NOT after the summer.

Songs & Stories at Gravenhurst Opera House
2025-12-09 18:30 - 22:00 | Gravenhurst Opera House
Join us in the Trillium Court Lounge at the Gravenhurst Opera House for an intimate evening of stories and songs hosted by Muskoka musician, singer and songwriter, Sean Cotton. The December edition features fan faves Christina Hutt & James Gray!
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Bar Opens at 6:30 PM; Entertainment at 7 PM
Admission: $10 at the door (suggested minimum)
Cash Bar | ATM onsite

Cram-A-Cruiser Event
2025-12-10 11:00 - 12:00 | ON
Spread Holiday Cheer with Hospice Muskoka–Andy’s House!
This holiday season, we’re excited to host our first annual Cram-a-Cruiser event! We’re collecting non-perishable food items and unwrapped toys to bring joy to families in need. Drop off your donations at Andy’s House anytime between now and December 10th.
Join us on December 10th at 11 a.m. as we come together to fill a cruiser and share the spirit of giving with the West Muskoka Food Bank, @shamrock_lodge, and the OPP detachment.
Let’s make this season a little brighter for everyone in our community—one donation at a time.
