Community / Nov 6, 2024

Things To Do in The Bay of Quinte This Winter

Winter in the Bay of Quinte region is a magical time filled with outdoor adventures, cozy indoor activities, and festive community events. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s plenty to see and do during the colder months that will make you fall in love with this charming area. Here’s a list of some of the top things to do in the Bay of Quinte this winter.

Ongoing Seasonal Events

1. Belleville Festival of Lights

Dates: Nov 15, 2024 – Jan 6, 2025

The Festival of Lights is a much-loved tradition that transforms Belleville’s Jane Forrester Park into a glowing wonderland. This year’s event kicks off on November 15 with the grand lighting ceremony, including live entertainment, food trucks, and the arrival of Santa. Take in the dazzling displays, perfect for a holiday stroll with the family.

Location: Jane Forrester Park, Belleville

2. Quinte West Fantasy of Lights

Trenton Doug Whitney Fantasy of Lights

When: Nov. 24 – Jan. 1
Where:Fraser Park Quinte West

Frankford Christmas Fantasy

When: Nov. 24 – Jan. 1
Where: Frankford Tourist Park

3. Downtown Belleville Enchanted Holiday Market

Dates: November 29th to 15th (weekends)

Fridays from 5pm – 8pm
Saturdays from 11am – 5pm
Sundays from 11am – 5pm

The Downtown District will be filled with Christmas cheer, holiday vendors, carriage rides, and more!

Location: Front Street, Belleville

Winter Adventures

Skiing

Head to Batawa Ski Hill for downhill skiing and snowboarding, perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers. For cross-country enthusiasts, Sandbanks Provincial Park, Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area, and Hanna Park offer scenic routes. Check with the Quinte Conservation Website for updates on available trails.

Snowshoeing

Many Bay of Quinte locations offer beautiful winter scenery and various trail lengths, making them suitable for all skill levels of snowshoeing. If you have your own pair and want to head out solo or with a group, check out the Millennium Trail or Sandbanks Provincial Park. For those seeking guided tours, check out the list below:

Three Dog Winery – Guided winter hike through vineyards, cedar and pine forests, and sugar bush – includes snowshoe rental, lunch, wine, and guided tour.
Sugarbush Estates Winery – Rentals typically available on Saturdays; may open Sundays based on conditions, wine tasting included. Reservations recommended.
The Eddie Hotel & Farm – Located on the Millennium Trail with 80 acres to explore. Snowshoes available to borrow.

Skating

Enjoy indoor skating with public skate times at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre, the Wellington and District + the Prince Edward Community Centres, and many other surrounding arenas. Community-run outdoor ice rinks such as Brimley Park, Exhibition Park, The Tyendinaga Township Outdoor Rink, and the Coe Hill Recreation Pavilion offer a great back-to-nature skating experience.

Ice Fishing

For ice fishing enthusiasts, the Bay of Quinte offers excellent opportunities. Trenton Bay, Belleville Bay, Telegraph Narrows, and Hay Bay are some well-known hot spots for winter fishing. If you prefer a guided experience, consider heading to Madoc, Ontario, where local outfitters provide guided ice fishing tours to help you make the most of your adventure. Or head over to Merland Park Cottages on Picton Bay where visitors can rent winterized cottages, ice-fishing huts, and have a personal fishing guide. Always remember to check ice conditions and local regulations before heading out!

Enjoy the Season

The Bay of Quinte offers something for everyone this winter. So bundle up, embrace the cold, and explore all the adventures waiting for you in this beautiful region!

For more information visit the Bay of Quinte Tourism Upcoming Events.

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