Barrie 
Barrie Winterfest returns this weekend, offering a variety of winter-themed activities across multiple locations in the city.
Credit: City of Barrie
What to See & Do
Taking place at Centennial Park and Will Dwyer Park on February 7 &8, this festival has something for everyone, whether you’re into dazzling ice sculptures, delicious treats, or high-energy entertainment.
- A full weekend at Centennial Park: Activities run Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Centennial Park serving as the main hub for Winterfest attractions, live entertainment, warming stations, food vendors, and drop-in activities across the waterfront.
- Signature winter attractions and displays: Visitors can expect ice and snow features including a large snow sculpture by artist Siggi Buhler, a mini tube slide from Snow Valley, inflatable games, maple taffy from Lalonde’s Maple Syrup, fire pit warming zones hosted by Scouts Canada, and helicopter rides priced at $90 per person.
- Live shows scheduled throughout both days: Performances run steadily across stages, featuring the Great Canadian Lumberjacks, NorthFIRE Circus, Scott Jackson’s beatbox shows, Pyromeo fire performances, Steve Ski Patrol, One Arm Bob, Lukas Stark’s magic, and character meet-and-greets at set times.
- Wildlife and nature-focused programming: Educational exhibits include Speaking of Wildlife animal encounters and The Eyrie Birds of Prey shows, alongside Nature Play, snow painting with the MacLaren Art Centre, and winter wildlife activities exploring how animals adapt to cold conditions.
- Food, warmth, and hands-on art: The Winter Food Vendor Village brings together local and mobile food vendors, while indoor and outdoor warming stations are provided by Napoleon Home Comfort. Families can also contribute to the Make Winter Bright community art installation in the Nature Nook.
- Events beyond the park: Winterfest extends across Barrie with skating at Circle at the Centre, shinny hockey at Will Dwyer Park, the Hot Cocoa Trail downtown, February Blues Festival performances, a pancake breakfast, and family workshops at the MacLaren Art Centre and Five Points Theatre.
Trip Planning – Barrie Winterfest 2026
Credit: Tourism Barrie
Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and embrace the winter magic at Barrie Winterfest 2026!
- Outdoor Adventures:
- Snow Valley’s mini tube slide
- Shinny hockey at Will Dwyer Park
- Snow Sculpture
- Toronto Kite Fliers showcase (weather permitting)
- Helicopter rides ($90/person, weather permitting)
- Tasty Treats:
- Maple taffy samples
- Fireside marshmallow roasting
- Vendor market ($)
- Family Fun & Crafts:
- Eyrie Birds of Prey Show, Character Meet & Greet and more
- Wildlife activities
- Inflatables and games
- Live Entertainment, Buskers, Lumberjack Show
Where:
Centennial Park & Will Dwyer Park, plus events across Barrie
How Much:
Most activities are free; some require payment ($)
When:
Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 10:00am–5:00pm
Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 10:00am–4:00pm
Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 10:00am–4:00pm
Getting Around
- Free Park ‘N Ride Shuttle – Runs all weekend. Park ‘n ride from Allandale Recreation Centre stop #20 or hop on/off along the route, including stops at the Barrie Allandale Transit Terminal, Downtown Transit Hub, and along Lakeshore Drive.
- Parking – Downtown parking is free on weekends; waterfront lots require a digital permit.
