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Whether you are in the mood for a haunted winter walk or would prefer something a little more light-hearted like watching a movie, going to a theatre, catch a live concert, Wellington County has you covered. With its rich history, diverse geography, and many cultural attractions all you have to do is bundle up and pick an activity from this list that appeals to you.
Winter Fun in Guelph – Wellington: Events, Festivals and Outdoor Adventures
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Events & Festivals
Dreams of Vienna
Ring in the New Year with your favourite waltzes, arias, and Viennese-inspired revelry. GSO’s New Year’s Day in Vienna concert is a delightfully joyous tradition – it’s the perfect way to bid a fond farewell to an old year while ushering in a new one. Details
Thursday, January 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Ballet Jörgen – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
One of Shakespeare’s beloved comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is perfectly suited for this whimsical ballet adaptation. Choreographer Bengt Jörgen brings out the magic of Northern Canada’s woodland and its friendly creatures such as moose, beavers, bears, and squirrels. Details
Sunday, January 11, 2026 | 2:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Animaniacs in Concert
Join the voices of the Animaniacs as they perform world-famous songs from the beloved cartoon series, backed by the original projected animation. Fans of all ages will experience Animaniacs like never before — especially those who grew up watching it. As its creators say, “Animaniacs in Concert is for the adults – it’s hip, it’s funny — but kids will love it, too!” Details
Sunday, January 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Ventastic – Reimagining the Art of Ventriloquism
Prepare to be amazed! His performance showcases the artistry and skill required to master the intricate art form of ventriloquism. As a professional, full-time touring performer, he ignites a spark in his young audience, encouraging them to chase their creative passions, no matter how unconventional they may be. His message is simple: embrace your creativity and chase your dreams with everything you’ve got! Details
January 20 – 22, 2026
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Bonnie and Clyde – The Broadway Musical
From the mind of Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde, Dracula, The Scarlet Pimpernel), this cult-favourite Broadway musical retells the unbelievable true story of America’s most infamous couple, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the ill-fated lovers and outlaws whose story has been legendary since they achieved folk hero status during the Great Depression. This provocative story takes shape on stage with a driving score infused with Country, Bluegrass, and Gospel music. Details
January 24 – 25, 2026
Fergus Grand Theatre, 244 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
Grand Shanghai Circus
This impressive, multifaceted show is dedicated to celebrating the art and culture of China. Experience the country’s colourful traditions through amazing acrobatics, mystifying magic, comedy, music, and breathtaking sets! This stunning show is designed for all ages and features performers of all ages, too. Prepare to be in awe of the incredible talent and choreography. Details
Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Go on a Winter Birdwatching Hike
Discover the joy of winter birdwatching! Spot vibrant resident birds and visiting northern species, bringing color to the season. Whether beginner or expert, embrace nature’s beauty on this winter birding adventure. Details
February 13 – 15, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
The Arboretum, 200 Arboretum Road, Guelph
The 39 Steps
In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she’s a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called “The 39 Steps” is hot on the man’s trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale! A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, The 39 Steps amounts to an unforgettable evening of pure pleasure! Details
Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Guelph Little Theatre, 176 Morris Street, Guelph
Girls Nite Out
Laugh yourself silly with this all-female, all-funny comedy ensemble. The showcase features a mix of standup and improv from some of the funniest comedians in Canada: Elvira Kurt, Jennine Profeta, Diana Frances, and Karen Parker. Celebrating friendship and hardship through story and song, Girls Nite Out delivers a new performance every evening, improvising scenes based on audience suggestions. Details
Friday, February 13, 2026 | 8:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
The Great Gatsby
Behind the champagne and jazz lies a story of obsessive love, reckless ambition, and the crumbling illusions of the American Dream. This stage adaptation captures the elegance and excess of the Jazz Age while focusing on its most poignant, tragic moments. Details
January 29 – 31, 2026
Fergus Grand Theatre, 244 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
Guelph Storm
Cheer on the hometown team and enjoy a game of hockey with Guelph Storm. Details
Sleeman Centre, 50 Woolwich St, Guelph
Black Umfolosi International
Black Umfolosi International is a self-taught a capella singing and traditional dance group. The group was formed in 1982 by school friends in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, who wanted to develop themselves and contribute to their community in Zimbabwe.
Specializing in imbube music, gumboot dance and Zulu dance, they have since garnered international attention with performances that are energetic and engaging, mixing a gentle spirit and soulful song with exuberant dancing. Details
February 24 – 26, 2026
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
An Evening with Elton Rohn and Epic Eagles
ELTON ROHN returns to the River Run Centre. They’ve been called the best Elton John tribute in the world. Providing a masterful presentation of Eagles classic hits and Don Henley favourites with its rock n’ roll game-changing song catalogue, Epic Eagles has earned its place among the top drawing tribute acts in North America and is widely regarded as the finest Eagles tribute show in production today. Journey through all the Eagles’ signature sounds, from country rock to hard rocking tunes highlighting their extraordinary catalogue, with lush vocal harmonies and exceptional musical accuracy. Details
Friday, February 27, 2026 | 7:30 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Elliott Tree Farm Maple Syrup Experience
Enjoy Elliott Tree Farm’s Maple Syrup Experience, which includes entry to the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario, all-you-can-eat pancakes with bacon and sausage, and a walk to the sugar shack to witness maple syrup being made while tasting maple taffy, sugar, sap, and syrup. Details
Weekends, February 14 – April 5, 2026
Elliott Tree Farm, 9467 Erin East Garafraxa Townline, Hillsburgh
Coldest Night of the Year
The Coldest Night of the Year is a winterrific family-friendly walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. Details
February 28, 2026 | 2 km starts at 2:10 PM; 5 km at 5:10 PM
2 km Route – 21 Meyer Drive, Guelph
5 km Route – 155 Paisley St, Guelph
Blithe Spirit
A smash comedy hit on London and Broad stages, this much-revived classic from the playwright of Private Lives offers wit, conflict and big laughs as a fussy, cantankerous novelist finds himself haunted by the ghost of his late first wife. Details
March 8, 14 – 15, 20 – 22, 2026
Century Church Theatre, 72 Trafalgar Rd, Hillsburgh
Little Women
Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women follows the March sisters as they come of age in Civil War-era New England, balancing love, family, and ambition in a timeless story of resilience and sisterhood. Details
March 12 – 15, 2026
Fergus Grand Theatre, 244 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
Ontario Craft Whiskey Festival
Join local Ontario Craft distillers for an afternoon to sip and savour a wide array of Whiskeys with samples, limited edition sales, cocktails, music, and guest speakers on mixology, history, pairing, and blending. Details
Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville St, Elora
Little Women
Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women follows the March sisters as they come of age in Civil War-era New England, balancing love, family, and ambition in a timeless story of resilience and sisterhood. Details
March 12 – 15, 2026
Fergus Grand Theatre, 244 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
The Celtic Kitchen Party
Join us. Come celebrate St. Patrick’s at the biggest show in Fergus on Thursday, March 19th, as touring act The Celtic Kitchen Party take the stage at Fergus Grand Theatre. Details
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Fergus Grand Theatre, 244 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
Curious George: The Golden Meatball
Everyone’s favourite monkey is on a new mission — to help his friend, Chef Pisghett, enter the world-famous Golden Meatball Contest in Rome, and the audience is invited to come along for the fun-filled adventure. This brand new, live action musical is specifically designed for young admirers and is sure to leave them singing and swinging down the aisles! Details
Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 4:00 PM
River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich St, Guelph
Attractions & Outdoor Adventures
Moveable Feasts
Discover award-winning guided food and drink tours across Guelph, Elora, and Wellington County. These moveable feasts feature local growers, makers, and culinary gems while uncovering regional history and cultural landmarks. Choose from private tours, curated picnics, or themed experiences like the Craft Gin Trail or Elora Grand Food Tour.
Go Tobogganing
The Mole Hill at Centennial Park is a popular tobogganing destination. While youngsters slide down the hill, the adults can walk the trails or take the dog to meet some new furry friends at the onsite leash-free park.
Explore Old-Growth Forest
North of Guelph, the Ignatius Jesuit Centre’s Old-Growth Forest is a 5km network of hiking and cross-country skiing trails in a diverse natural area along the Speed River, passing through the old Jesuit settlement ruins.
Enjoy skating at Market Square Skating Rink
Located in front of City Hall, the Market Square Skating Rink is open all winter long. The rink is open from 10 am to 10 pm daily except on holidays.
Market Square skating rink; The City of Guelph
Enjoy a Winter Hike
If winter hiking is your passion, join the Guelph Hiking Trail Club. Join other hiking enthusiasts for a variety of organized hikes and get updates on hiking trail closures.
Search for Ghosts at the Wellington County Museum
The Wellington County Museum, also known as the Poor House, is considered to be one of the most haunted places in Wellington County. This former homeless shelter may just be spooky enough to see from the outside, but if you dare, step inside the museum to learn more about the history of Wellington County.
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Go on a Tour
Take a self-guided tour through the University of Guelph. Although the university itself was founded in 1964, many of its buildings go back to the beginning of the 20th century. For example, Macdonald Hall is the University’s oldest residence building, dating back to 1903.
Go Skiing
Love skiing? The Guelph Nordic Ski Club maintains some of the finest ski trails in the area. Enjoy over 10 km of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing.
Check out the Farmers’ Market
The outdoor Guelph Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm. Almost two centuries old, it is considered one of the most active and vibrant markets in Southern Ontario and offers a gorgeous view of Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate.
Visit the Basilica
Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate is an iconic Gothic Revival church in the heart of Guelph. Resembling the famous Notre Dame in Paris, the church’s construction began in 1847 and was completed in. Centrally located, the church can be seen from multiple vantage points. Get up close to see the splendour for yourself or visit the Church’s virtual tour.
Basilica – Shrine of Our Lady Immaculate
Go Geocaching
Love outdoor scavenger hunts? Try Geocaching. Hundreds of geocaches are hidden all around Guelph and in the surrounding areas. Hidden places, interesting facts, and souvenirs along the way are waiting to be discovered with this free app.
Skate at the Riverside Park
Stretching between Woodlawn Rd E and Speedvale Ave E, Riverside Park is the most popular park in Guelph. During the winter months, the natural skating rink is open weather permitting. The leash-free dog area and the trail running along the Speedvale River are popular amongst pet owners.
Explore Eramosa River Park
Another top-ranked park, according to local residents, is the Eramosa River Park. In the winter, you’ll see the ducks waddling on the ice sheets along the Eramosa River Trail, and if you are up for a longer adventure, this trail connects to the Guelph Radial Trail.
The Eramosa River Trail passes through many landmarks in the city of Guelph. One of these landmarks is the lattice covered bridge. Constructed in 1992, it’s one of only 2 remaining covered bridges in Ontario.
Go Winter Cycling
Guelph Off-Road Bicycling Association is a group devoted to preserving, maintaining, and even increasing the trail network in the Guelph area. Join the Club by visiting their website to participate in club rides and get updates on trail conditions.
The City of Guelph
Hike the Silvercreek Trail
Silvercreek Trail which runs through Guelph, has paths for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
Explore Rockwood Conservation Area
Rockwood Conservation Area is maintained by Grand River Conservation Authority year-round. Visitors can hike and snowshoe the trails that traverse caves and ruins.
50 Things to do in Guelph – Wellington this Summer
Visit Guelph Lake Conservation Area
In the winter months Guelph Lake Conservation Area is open for hiking. Grand River Conservation Authority season pass will grant you access or you can pay at the honorary box located at the gate.
Hike the White Junction Trail
Located in the town of Minto, the 12km White Junction Trail is maintained in the winter and has hiking trails for all skills levels.
Visit the University of Guelph Arboretum
The University of Guelph Arboretum covers 400 acres next to the main campus. The area is devoted to the preservation of woody plants and has many walking trails, woodlands, wetlands, and meadows.
The Arboretum, University of Guelph
See the Palmerston Railway Pedestrian Bridge
A symbol of local railway heritage, the Palmerston Railway Pedestrian Bridge, was originally built to allow school children a safe passage over the tracks to get to school. Now it’s a scenic lookout.
Hike the Fletcher Creek Ecological Reserve
Fletcher Creek Ecological Reserve is an abandoned quarry that is now a wetland and home to foxes, groundhogs, and other animals. During the winter you can see and hear many birds as you hike the trails of this reserve.
Discover Elora and Fergus
Discover the picturesque towns of Elora and Fergus. Visit the ruins or enjoy a spa treatment or dinner (limited seating) at the Elora Mill with a gorgeous view of the rushing river underneath.
@elorabia
Try Ice Climbing
If you are feeling adventurous, you can scale a sheet of ice at the Elora Gorge. Visit One Axe Pursuits to book a private or a group lesson.
Things to Do During Winter in Ontario
You can also do a Taste Detours! Year round food adventures. We feed your curiosity. Give us a shout.