Cross-Country Skiing

**Please note we simply list our events on Meetup - the only way to register for an adventures is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/upcoming-adventures-and-events).** Muskoka, Ontario's 'Cottage Country', is one of Canada's best-loved and most beautiful destinations. At this time of year, it's more special than ever. We're visiting during the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year and the turning point for longer days! We’ll start the day exploring *Hardy Lake* on a 8km loop trail. This hike introduces you to Muskoka’s distinct scenery, around gorgeous lakes, the iconic granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield and an environment unmistakably shaped by beaver activity. Along the way, you may just spot some of the beavers, otters and turtles who call Hardy Lake home, offering a true snapshot of Muskoka's wilderness. We’ll finish the day with a *visit to the iconic town of Bracebridge*, giving you the chance to wander, shop, or simply unwind before we head home. It’s built around a dramatic waterfall that cuts right through the downtown, and it's one of the few places in Ontario where you can walk from an independent coffee shop to a riverside lookout in under five minutes. It offers just enough to explore without feeling rushed, making it a perfect final stop to wind down before the drive home. From forests and lakes to great food and panoramic views, this tour showcases the best Muskoka has to offer in just one day. Join us and experience it yourself. **Included in your trip:** \- Return Transport from Toronto \- You'll ride in our comfortable air conditioned coach\, with a TTC accessible pickup location\. \- Expert Guides Our guides are the best in the business. Friendly, encouraging and brimming with qualifications. They'll keep you safe, teach you all about the environment and ensure you have fun as you do it. **Highlights** **Iconic Scenery -** You'll take in some of the region's most beautiful views. Get up close with the Canadian Shield. **Visit Bracebridge -** Stroll the streets of Muskoka's most striking town. **Wildlife Spotting -** If you're lucky, you may spot the beavers and otters that call this region home. **Itinerary** **07:00 - 09:30:** Bus journey to Muskoka **09:30 - 13:30:** Hike the 8km Hardy Lake Trail **14:00 - 15:30:** Visit Bracebridge **15:30 - 18:00:** Return journey to Toronto **Event cost** ***Wilderness Union members:*** $60+HST (optional transport = $60+HST) **Register [here](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/muskoka-winter-solstice).** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community of people like you who will become your new friend group. Members range from 20-40 years old and are a mix of people who've grown up here but their friends are in a different place, newcomers to Canada, and folks from out West who want that lifestyle in Toronto Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Join us on December 21, 2025, at Global Link Toronto for the Toronto Global Film Festival 2025 — an international event showcasing powerful ## Toronto Global **Film Festival** We are proud to invite you to the **Toronto Global Film Festival**, an international cinematic event dedicated to powerful stories centered on **women, war, and migration** — narratives of resilience, identity, and human experience. 📅 **December 21, 2025** 📍 **Global Link – Toronto** The festival program includes: * ✨ **Opening Ceremony** * 🎞 **Film Screenings** * 🏆 **Closing Ceremony & Awards** From **over 4,000 film submissions from around the world**, selected films will be honored in major categories including **Best Director, Best Actor, Best Screenplay**, and more. 🎥 This international festival brings together filmmakers, artists, and distinguished actors based in Toronto and across Canada, creating a vibrant space for dialogue, creativity, and global storytelling. If you believe in cinema that amplifies voices and transcends borders, **we look forward to welcoming you at the Toronto Global Film Festival.** https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-global-film-festival-tickets-1977682330087?aff=erelexpmlt

Greetings Bird Lovers, Why do we keep going to Long Point, well the main reason is the sheer number of birds we can see, there is no place in Southern Ontario that offers the number of birds you can see at this time of year. Our trips to Long Point have always been exceptional. On our trips we’re treated to an incredible mix of wildlife, Bald Eagles, possibly Snowy Owls, Tufted Titmice, thousands of Sandhill Cranes, and literally thousands of ducks. Every visit feels like stepping into a National Geographic special. Even in the heart of winter, the slowly lengthening days and brighter light remind us that the outdoors is still full of magic, and moments like these are exactly why we keep heading back out into the field. Long Point's significance as part of the Canadian Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, as well as its role as the home to Bird Studies Canada, is underscored by the continuous presence of birds throughout the year. This renowned Ontario wintering ground hosts a myriad of species, including waterfowl, Sandhill Cranes, Tundra Swans, and the occasional surprise guest. From the commonplace Bald Eagles to the captivating Birds of Prey such as Red-tailed Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Harriers, and American Kestrels, each visit unfolds a tapestry of avian wonders. Long Point, a globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), beckons ornithologists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts worldwide. We're eagerly looking forward to our upcoming birding adventure at this extraordinary location. A stop at Ruthven Park promises encounters with the charming Tufted Titmouse and possibly wintering Eastern Bluebirds. Additionally, our itinerary remains flexible, allowing us to stay attuned to local birding news for the possibility of rare bird sightings. Nature's surprises often unfold during this season, prompting us to adapt our plans for the chance to witness something truly extraordinary. Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of birding at Long Point, a journey of exploration, discovery, and sheer magic. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply revel in nature's wonders, all are welcome to join. Binoculars are recommended for an enhanced experience. Our shared love for nature fosters a lively and enjoyable camaraderie within the group. I assure you of smiles, laughter, and a thoroughly delightful day out. Our rendezvous point is the Finch Station Passenger pick-up and Drop-off. Parking Lot at 7:45 am, with departure promptly at 8:00 am. We anticipate returning around 5:00 pm, having explored various areas southwest of Toronto to maximize our chances of encountering special bird species. For those interested, I can accommodate up to 3 Nature Lovers in my vehicle. The cost for my guidance, unveiling the super-hotspots, is $99.00 plus tax, totaling $113. To secure your spot, payment can be made through PayPal or via direct e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. If you opt for the latter, kindly inform me, and I will manually add you to the trip. Let's embark on a day filled with nature's wonders, capturing moments that will linger in our memories. We look forward to sharing this adventure with you!

Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a fun Holiday Season Sunday social leisure nature walk that will include trails, parks and beautifully decorated neighbourhoods along our walk. The evening will continue as we hit a great location for dinner, beverages and conversation. **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **2:30 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:00 p.m.)** This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small adventure through quieter and more natural parts of the city we don't usually get to see. More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **Holiday Season Nature and Christmas Lights Neighbourhood Walk! (with Dinner Party After)** -A great event planned as we explore Parks, Trails, Cafes and beautiful Neighbourhoods with Christmas Lights and Decorations (Restaurant Reserved with Dinner, Cocktails and Conversations after) -During the walk we will stop and rest at different spots, bathroom breaks, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning of the walk as well to help us get to know one another \*This event is a great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air and (re) connect with some wonderful people **Bonus after our Leisure Nature Walk: (Optional)** \*Stick around after the walk for a fun Sunday Night gathering at an iconic venue with Reserved Seating, Great Menu, Beverages and Mingling **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** **Date:** Sunday December 21st We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **2:30 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:00 p.m.)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Meet at 'Round the Horn' pub for the Maple Leafs Hockey viewing and party in the Roncesvalles area. Team attire is encouraged. Leafs game starts at 7pm. Please be a gracious guest and buy at least one beverage per venue. Always be respectful towards participants and venues. Safety is your own responsibility. And have a blast!!!

Our group will leave at the posted time, so please arrive early. Please cancel your RSVP if you can't make it. How fast and how far? We'll be walking at near 4.5 km/ hour for about 7.5 km. The route is a loop, so we will finish where we originally start from. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes to walk in. Crampons are necessary to have on hand. Required reading for you and your guests before RSVP'ing to all events: 1. [Liability Waiver and Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vR0LFNJVYn5j1AYl8eR63HjAxKMkRwg5ifKXqL3rP6Xl7v_Wcsx4xR_kNFluE3eILpSmP-EJ0OouQvT/pub) (updated 05/30/22) 2. When asked at RSVP time, indicate **\*Yes\*** if you agree to the question provided. 3. See general information about [Tick Safety](https://www.ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease)

🎄 **The Christmas Flower Show at Allan Gardens Conservatory** 🎄 ✨ *A Magical Holiday Tradition Returns!* ✨ Step into a world of festive wonder as the **Allan Gardens Conservatory Christmas Flower Show** bursts into bloom! 🌺🌟 The city’s most enchanting winter escape is back — and the **historic Palm House is open once again!** Built in 1910, this stunning glass-domed landmark glows like a snow globe filled with Christmas magic. Inside, thousands of radiant blooms and **over 30 varieties of poinsettias** fill the air with colour and joy. 🌹🎅 Wander among **holiday-inspired topiary masterpieces**, twinkling lights, and exotic plants from around the world. It’s a breathtaking celebration of nature, nostalgia, and the season’s spirit — *a Toronto holiday tradition you don’t want to miss!* \*\*\* 🌿 **Meetup Details** 📍 **Meeting Spot:** I wll be outside of Allan Garden's Conservatory which is the BIG white building in front of main doors. I will be wearing my Moose Hat. 👒 Mathew will be easy to spot in his *famous Moose Hat!* 🕚 **Meetup Time:** 11:00 AM sharp (Mathew will wait 5 minutes) 🕰️ **Visit Duration:** 30–45 minutes at the Conservatory 🍳 **After the Visit:** We’ll stroll over to **Fran’s Restaurant**, one of Toronto’s most beloved historic diners, for a cozy brunch together. (There might be a short wait for seating.) \*\*\* 💲 **Meetup Fee:** 💵 $5 cash in person **or** 📲 E-transfer to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This small fee helps support our group — thank you! \*\*\* 🎁 **What to Bring:** * Camera or phone for all the gorgeous photo ops 📸 * Warm layers (it’s toasty inside, brisk outside!) 🧣 * A sprinkle of holiday cheer 🎅 \*\*\* 💬 **Stay Connected:** 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) ⏰ **Leaving Time:** Any time you like — take in the magic at your own pace. ⚠️ **Note:** Occasionally, events may need to be rescheduled — please check for updates before you come! \*\*\* 👤 **Organizer:** Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email \*\*[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**](http://torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)

Cost: $16 per person (includes feather birdies). Plastic birdies are available upon request. Payment: Cash is preferred and should be made before playing. E-Transfer (EMT) or debit card payments are accepted (plus applicable taxes). Time: Sundays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: 1370 Birchmount Rd, Unit #6 (Closest intersection: Birchmount Rd & Lawrence Ave) Requirements: Racquets: Bring your own racquet. Rentals are available at the club if needed. Shoes: Please bring indoor gym shoes and change into them at the club before entering the courts. Winter Reminder: Ensure you change into court shoes before stepping onto the courts during the winter months. Rules and Guidelines: No outside food is allowed. This meetup is open to players of all skill levels (beginner to advanced). The primary purpose is to play friendly doubles games. This event is not intended for singles matches or formal training sessions. Attendance is capped based on court availability. Waitlisted participants may be moved to the confirmed list as space allows, with priority given to regular attendees and those with reliable RSVP history. No Drop-ins: Only individuals on the confirmed “Going” list are allowed to attend. Unregistered participants will be asked to leave. Cancellation Policy: Please cancel at least 48 hours in advance if you cannot attend. Failure to do so will result in being marked as a no-show. Repeated no-shows may lead to removal from future “Going” lists.

**Don Mills Civitan Arena** is located on 1030 Don Mills Rd, about 4km south of Sheppard Ave. Nearest intersection is Don Mills and Lawrence. Bring your skates, there are NO skate rentals. This is an indoor rink, so dress accordingly. It will not be affected by warm or rainy weather. Look for me in a blue blue jacket and glasses/mask. Amenities: Change room and Washroom available. TTC directions: Closest subway is Don Mills station - take the 925 or 25 bus south (about 10mins) or you can also, take the same buses from Broadview going north (about 30mins). Plenty of parking near the arena or at Shop on the Don parking lot. Please update your RSVP to Not Going if you cannot make it.

Ready for a night of music, laughter, and fun? Join us at Thunderwing Brewery for Music Bingo — a lively twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and good vibes are guaranteed! RSVP to secure your spot. Text Renee (614-257-9389). (Headcount needed to make sure staffing can accommodate the group) Arrive early to get a seat - **bring a camping chair for extra seating.** Often the brewery has food trucks or you can bring in your own food. Bonus - You can bring your dog!

Please join us the 3rd Wednesday of each month to learn more about the Columbus Ski Club and what we have to offer. Pizza, wings and a variety of appetizers provided. We are a non-profit organization founded in 1958 with over 800 members. The club has grown beyond the single mission of providing members with not only quality skiing events but also year round social and sport activities. Our gatherings are an opportunity for members and non-members to interact and learn about the many activities offered such as euchre, billiards, volleyball, tennis, bowling, golf & softball leagues along with ski and non-ski trips. Our members also plan group activities such as visits to bike trips, glass blowing workshops, plays and local sports games, etc. CSC membership is not required to belong to the Meetup group. Membership is required in order to participate in most club activities (CSC member). However, anyone (21 and over) is welcome at our meeting gatherings which consist of checking out our current activities and socializing. The annual dues for club membership are $35 with the membership year from September 1st – August 31st. [https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=60&club_id=686961)

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

We will hike approx 4 miles looping through the gardens, boardwalk trail and chipmunk trail.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.