Snow, Fun, and Family: Celebrate Family Day Weekend at the Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival!

The Family Day long weekend is a perfect opportunity to embrace community festivals, even when the temptation to hibernate is strong. A longstanding tradition, the Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival is a beloved event that draws locals, cottagers and visitors from across Ontario for a mix of outdoor fun, entertainment, and educational experiences that celebrate winter traditions, local history, and the great outdoors. The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival, taking place in Dorset, Ontario on February 14 & 15, 2025, is the perfect opportunity for families to come together during Family Day weekend to enjoy a variety of fun, hands-on learning experiences. Whether you're exploring outdoor winter activities, engaging in interactive workshops, or enjoying the festive atmosphere, there’s something for every age to enjoy. Families can make memories while learning and connecting in a winter wonderland. The in-person and online tutoring team at Teachers on Call recommends this event for the chance to discover exciting educational opportunities in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Keep reading to see an exclusive interview with Chad Ingram, communications coordinator for the Township of Algonquin Highlands, to learn more about this year’s carnival!

In addition to the wide range of activities, the carnival will feature live performances, family-friendly games, and a special showcase of local talent. With an emphasis on creativity and teamwork, it’s a wonderful chance for children and adults alike to collaborate and learn new skills. Don’t miss the incredible chainsaw carver in action or the interactive walk-through zoo featuring exotic animals, where you can get up close to some truly fascinating creatures. The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival is the perfect way to enjoy winter while making meaningful connections. For science enthusiasts, the carnival provides a fantastic chance to see the natural world in action and discover the wonders of the winter season while having fun!Don’t miss out on this celebration of community and learning!

Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival Location:

The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival takes place in Dorset, a charming hamlet located within the Township of Algonquin Highland. The event is centered around the Dorset Recreation Centre and the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for winter festivities and community gatherings. Located approximately 45 to 60 minutes from Muskoka. It’s a scenic drive that takes you through parts of Ontario’s beautiful cottage country, making it an enjoyable trip for those heading to the Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival from Muskoka!

There is just one location, which is downtown Dorset, including the main street, Lions Centennial Park, and Dorset Recreation Centre (1049 Main St, Dorset, ON P0A 1E0).

Behind the Snowball: Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival’s History, Highlights, and What’s New for 2025

Check out our interview with Chad Ingram, communications coordinator for the Township of Algonquin Highlands.

The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival began in 1991 as a fundraiser for the Dorset Recreation Centre. Could you share more about the early days of the event?

I can’t speak specifically to the early days of the event, but I know from the get-go it was a grassroots, volunteer-driven festival. It has evolved over the past three decades, so its earlier incarnations were smaller in scale than the contemporary event.

The Carnival takes place on Family Day Weekend every year. Why is Family Day an important time to host this event?

Family Day Weekend is a long weekend, therefore there are more people in the area, including many of our seasonal residents are able to attend the festivities.

What activities or events during the Carnival are specifically designed to bring families together?

Certainly the skating party on Friday evening and pancake breakfast on Saturday morning are a great chance for families to come together, but really the whole event is designed to be a fun day out with your family members and friends.

Dorset is a small, close-knit community. How does the Carnival reflect the unique character and heritage of Dorset and the surrounding Algonquin Highlands?

The Great Canadian Lumberjacks show certainly pays homage to the important role logging played in Dorset’s history. The Dorset Heritage Museum (1040 Main St, Dorset, ON P0A 1E0) is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, so there is a great opportunity to see a number of exhibits about the hamlet’s history.

Where do your guests typically travel from to attend the Carnival? Have you seen any surprising or notable locations represented in recent years?

Certainly people from throughout Haliburton County and the District of Muskoka attend Snowball, but people do come from all over the province.

The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival is made possible by volunteers. Are there volunteer opportunities for students looking to complete their graduation requirement?

To volunteer with the Township, students must be at least 14 years old, and must undergo a police check, as is a mandated requirement for all volunteers.

The Snowball Parade is a major highlight of the event. Could you tell us about its history and how it has evolved over the years?

The parade has been a long time staple of the carnival, and has grown to include the Algonquin Highlands Fire Services fleet, local dignitaries, community organizations and local businesses. Our MP and MPP often take part in the parade as well, which is followed by an official opening ceremony featuring a town crier.

How do local groups and businesses get involved in the parade?

They can sign up on the Algonquin Highlands website.

Are there any new attractions or events planned for the 2025 Carnival that attendees should look forward to?

This year we have a chainsaw artist who’ll be carving works of wood, as well as an exotic pet zoo and virtual dog sled tour. These are all new attractions.

Can you tell us about the cost of attending the Carnival and how you keep it accessible for families?

The cost to attend Snowball is $5 per person, which includes a souvenir button – a great deal.

Who are the sponsors that make this community event possible, and how do they contribute to its success?

A number of local businesses sponsor the event, and you can find them in the 2025 Snowball brochure.

~

The Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and a winter wonderland. Whether you’re a local or traveling from nearby areas like Muskoka, this festival offers something for everyone—family-friendly activities, exciting new attractions, and a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history of Dorset. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with others, learn something new, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. With the support of volunteers and local businesses, the Snowball Carnival continues to thrive and evolve, making Family Day weekend even more special. Don’t miss out on the fun this year—check out more winter activities happening across Canada on our blog, including the Bon Soo Winter Carnival in Sault Ste. Marie, and the Silver Skate Festival in Edmonton.