Elliot Lake was alive with energy during Winterfest 2025, which took place from February 21 to 23. This winter celebration attracted a lively crowd to various locations throughout the community. The festival showcased the enchantment of the season, uniting both residents and visitors for a weekend brimming with friendship, a collective appreciation for the city, and an array of fun activities.
The festivities kicked off on the evening of Friday, with an exciting trivia night hosted by the Elliot Lake Museum at the Renaissance Centre. This event welcomed teams and tested their knowledge on a variety of topics, including the area’s rich history.
Collins Hall was alive with energy as it hosted a youth dance for children in grades 1 through 8, providing a fun-filled time of music and dancing.
Saturday morning saw the Masonic Lodge bustling with activity as community members gathered for a hearty breakfast. The tables were filled, and attendees enjoyed a spread of breakfast favourites. The lively atmosphere set the tone for a day packed with winter-themed activities.
One of the highlights of Winterfest was the unique beach party at Spine Beach, where families came together to savour hotdogs and steaming cups of hot chocolate. Children delighted in games and activities, while adults gathered around a warm campfire, fostering a welcoming community spirit despite the chilly winter air. The mix of laughter, warmth, and the tempting aroma of food created an unforgettable experience.
For those who sought a bit of adventure, Winterfest offered snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Courier du Bois provided free snowshoe rentals, inviting attendees to explore the winter landscape. Meanwhile, Jack’s Ski and Bike Shack offered cross-country skiing equipment, allowing participants to glide along the snow-covered trails surrounding the beach.
As evening approached, a fundraising event organized by the Elliot Lake Women’s Group (ELWG) took place. The Coldest Night of the Year event attracted a significant turnout from residents and successfully raised funds for Larry’s Place and Maplegate House. The day wrapped up with a Glow in the Dark Skating event at the Outdoor Rink in Kiwanis Park.
In addition to the outdoor fun, Collins Hall hosted an engaging exhibition from Science North on Sunday, featuring a variety of interactive displays designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages. The event was a hit, drawing in crowds eager to explore science in a fun and accessible way.
The Scavenger Hunt on Sunday afternoon encouraged participants to navigate the town in search of clues leading to the final destination and prize. The Cardboard Sled Races at Mt. Dufour were a blast for the kids, giving them a chance to dive into an exciting competition while also letting their imaginations run wild. Every child got to show off their handmade sleds, and the air was filled with laughter, cheers, and a sense of excitement as each one took their turn zooming down the snowy slope.
No winter festival would be complete without tasty treats, and the Beaver Tail truck was a standout favourite. Unfortunately, it sold out early with an employee saying, “Elliot Lake gave us lots of love this year.”
As the festival drew to a close, a 12-minute drone show illuminated the night sky, enchanting countless attendees and quickly becoming a highlight of Winterfest 2025.