Plenty to do this Ontario Family Weekend

You don't need a fishing license Family Day Weekend

There's a ton of stuff happening in Sunset Country this weekend including tons of free events.

Free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend
 
Ontario Family Fishing Weekend is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish Ontario waters without the otherwise mandatory fishing version outdoors card. The Ontario Government designates two periods throughout the year as license-free, one of these being this Family Day weekend. You can fish license free from February 16-18, 2013 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Monday). In the summer you can also fish license free from July 6-14, 2013 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday). During all other time periods, Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 years must purchase a valid fishing license to legally fish in Ontario. If you've never been ice fishing, this weekend would be an opportune time to get out there and fish. You can also take a friend fishing.

Participants fishing without a license must fish under the Conservation fishing license limits which are set out in the current Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. With the exception of the licensing requirement, Ontario fishing regulations, fees and limits continue to apply during license-free days.

Snowmobile our winter wonderland

Permit Free Snowmobiling

The OFSC is also having a 'Try Our Trails Permit'. The Try Our Trails Permit is only valid for available OFSC trails on Ontario’s Family Day Long Weekend February 16-18, 2013.

• You will be required to enter your sled license plate number, VIN, make, model and year when applying for this permit.*
• Print the permit yourself from confirmation email you receive after registering online.
• Permit must be affixed to your sled.

The OFSC wants to invite new participants, former riders and out‐of province visitors to try OFSC trails at no cost. They encourage all regular permit buyers to invite their families and friends to obtain a 2013 Try Our Trails Permit, so they can Take a Friend Snowmobiling. What a great opportunity to try the OFSC snowmobile trails. Find out more at the Ontario Federation of Snowmobiling Club website. 

2012 'Pimp Your Ice Shack' Winners

Winter Festivals

Check out the Dryden Winter Festival February 15-18, 2013. Celebrate winter outdoors with family and friends. There's a pancake breakfast, horse drawn sleigh rides, skating, sliding, snow kiting lessons and demos, snow sculpting, family fishing derby and so much more... You can download a printable schedule of Dryden Winter Festival events.

The Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival will kick off on February 14 with the Kin Baby contest at 6:30 p.m. The event continues on Friday with the annual fish fry at the Lions hall. There will be events all day Saturday including a pancake breakfast and a mini kids carnival, and a new event - the trapline challenge dog sled race. It's a mass start at 10:30 at the government dock. After that there will be having a kids mutt run. Sunday events include the Kin Family Fish Derby, which is often called the main event. Those interested in signing up for the fishing derby will be able to at the carnival. For more information on event registration contact Scott McEwan at 227-2904.

Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is open Family Day

There are also many Family Day Activities throughout the cities and towns in Sunset Country.

In Kenora, visit the Kenora Recreation Centre for a free public skate from 12:30-2pm and a free public swim from 1-2:30pm. Mount Evergreen Ski Hill will be open from 10-4pm and they have special pricing for the day. Beaver Creek Ranch is also open from 2-4pm. They will have sleigh rides, petting zoo, crafts and a bonfire.

In Thunder Bay there are lots of great things happening this Family Day weekend! There's Fort William Historical Park's Voyageur Winter Carnival all weekend and Winterfest down at Prince Arthur's Landing on February 18th. 

An “Indoor Planetarium” is coming to the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre on Monday, Feb. 18 (Family Day). Pick up your tickets for one of the six shows, which cost $2/person.

That's just a taste of what's happening in Sunset Country this weekend. Now get off the computer and head outside!

Mud, Music, Dragon Boats, Blueberries and Bass!

The August 10-12th weekend was filled with events in Sunset Country. From the Atikokan 4X4 Mudfling to the Shaw KBI to the Blueberry Festival in Sioux Lookout to the Trout Forest Music Festival in Ear Falls, Sunset Country had it all. Here's a quick recap of the weekend with links to see some of the photos of these summertime events.

Blueberry Bert joining the entertainment

The Blueberry Festival

The Festival is a 10 day festival that ran August 3-12, 2012 in Sioux Lookout, Ontario. This year was special as it was the 30th anniversary of the Blueberry Festival and Sioux Lookout's Centennial. The theme for this year’s Blueberry Festival was 'Hometown Heroes.' This theme was chosen to honour and celebrate the people who have worked so hard to make our community what it is today. There were over 130 events each year at the Blueberry Festival. Visit the Blueberry Festival Facebook page for tons of great photos of all the events. CKDR also has some Blueberry Festival photos.

News Articles of the Blueberry Festival: 
- Blueberry Festival Begins today, Aug. 3

Full Trottle

The 2012 Atikokan Mudfling

The Atikokan Mudslingers 4x4 Club Mudfling was held August 11-12th and had a double feature presentation. Spectators got to see "Full Throttle" and "Paper Boy Express" in action at the Opening Ceremonies and at Intermission on Saturday, and again on Sunday morning. "Full Throttle" and "Paper Boy Express" was set up in an area for you to talk with the people that built and drive these awesome machines and see their cars up close. The 4x4 Mudfling was held at the Charleson Recreation Area in Atikokan. Bookmark the Mudslingers' website for next year's events and to see photos of the event.

The Trout Forest Music Festival

The Ear Falls Waterfront Park came alive for the 17th Annual Trout Forest Music Festival August 10-12, 2012. The weather held out and concert goers were treated to over 25 musical acts including Jon Brooks, Alex Cuba and April Verch. Check out some photos of the Trout Forest Music Festival at Tourism Red Lake's Facebook page or on both Q104s or CKDR's Facebook page.

News articles about the Trout Forest Music Festival:

- Trout Forest Music Festival 2012 Gallery, Aug. 12
- Final Day for Trout Forest Music Festival, Aug. 12
- Trout Forest Music Festival has some of Manitoba's best playing waterside, Aug. 9

Rob Horley holds a 5.58lb largemouth bass caught at the 2012 SKBI - Photo courtesy of the Kenora Daily Miner and News

The Shaw Kenora Bass International

The SKBI was held August 9-11th, 2012 on Lake of the Woods in Kenora. Aaron Wiebe and Peter Tully were the 2012 tournament winners, taking home a $22,375 first prize. 2012 was the 25th year for the SKBI, which for years was named KBI until Shaw became a major sponsor. Past tournaments are showcased on the newly designed SKBI website. The bass tournament on Lake of the Woods is now known as Shaw KBI or SKBI. The biggest bag of fish came on day two with Jim Gustafson and Ben Gustafson reeling in 20.40 lbs. Jon Olson and Clay Lajeunesse got the biggest fish on both Day 1 and Day 2 with a 6.09 and a 5.99 lb bass. Day Three's biggest was caught by Michael Dufresne and Louis Syemour with a 5.38 pounder. All results of the 2012 Shaw KBI can be found online here. View some more photos of the SKBI at the 89.5 The Lake Facebook page.

News articles about the SKBI:

- Wiebe/Tully take 25th Shaw KBI with 18.85-pound final day, Aug 11
- Wiebe and Tully Win SKBI, Aug. 11
- Jim and Ben Gustafson shoot to top of the SKBI leaderboard with 20-plus-pound day two haul, Aug 10 
- McNanney, Rydberg lead SKBI, Aug.9

Dragon Boat racers on Rabbit Lake

The Kenora Dragon Boat Festival

Over 340 paddlers took part in the 10th Annual KLWRCF Dragon Boat Festival held August 12th on Rabbit Lake in Kenora. The one day festival went off without a hitch, finishes a couple of hours before the rain began. 17 boats raced this year's 500-metre water course. The races were held in heats of 2 or three boats starting off on the east end of the lake and ending just in front of the cheering crowd at the Kenora Rowing Club. After a few races, they broke for the flower ceremony where the Dragon Tamers, Chemo Savvy and other female paddlers took to the water. The Dragon Tamers were selling carnations to be thrown in the water after a touching song and the single beat of a drum. The foundation raised $22,000 from this past weekend's dragon boat races. Super Troopers won the A-side title, and Carpe Diem, members of Kenora's legal community placed first in the b-side event. Check out some of the photos on the Sunset Country Facebook page or the 89.5 The Lake Facebook page.

News articles about the Dragon Boat Festival:
- Dragon Boats Profitable for Community Foundation, Aug. 13
- Super Troopers repeat as champs, Aug. 13
- Tenth annual Dragon Boat Festival, Aug. 12

All in all, in was a very busy weekend in Sunset Country. For a list of events in Northwest Ontario, visit the new Ontario's Sunset Country Events Calendar.

Which Sculpture Would You Choose?

The 2012 Kenora Winter Carnival is set to take place March 2-4, 2012. This morning I took photos of the seven snow sculptures along what is known as thew Kenora Greenbelt. Official judging takes place on Friday. If you were the judge, which snow sculpture would you pick to win first place?

#1 - Moose Skiing

#2 - 1 Fish 2 Fish

#3 - Tobogganing

#4 - Trees

#5 - Fun Family Time

#6 - Fish under the ice

#6 - Different angle of Fish under the ice

There is one other sculpture that is not finished yet. Either that or someone has ruined (eek!) some of it, I am hoping it's just not completed yet.

They are all so good, it will be hard to pick a winner. I think my two favourite sculptures are the Tobogganing one and the Fish under the ice (these are just my names by the way). So which is your favourite snow sculpture?

Winter Festivals in Sunset Country

Why hibernate in the winter? There are many winter festivals and carnivals in Northwest Ontario. It's much more fun to take part in an ice fishing derby, carving or viewing a snow sculpture, or watch canoe races than sitting on your couch! Here are a few of the Winter Carnivals in Sunset Country:

Many communities have snow sculpture competitions

Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival - February 16-19, 2012

The Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival is spread over 4 days in February. The Kin Karnival Events are suited to everyone - both young and old. Take part in the events such as the Fish Fry, Pancake Breakfast, Snow Derby, Kids Karnival and the Kin Karnival Dance for adults. See the crowning of the Carnival Queen and don't forget the main event, the Kin Family Fish Derby.

Thursday February 16 - There is the Kin Baby Contest and Cake Walk at the  Lions Hall from 6:30-9:30pm. Hot dogs and Canteen available. Pre-register at the toy library 807-227-KIDS.

Friday February 17 - Fill up at the yummy Fish Fry at Lions Hall from 5-7:00pm. Then at 7:00pm there is a Coffee House Fundraiser for Syd Wall.

Saturday February 18 - Start the day at Lions Hall where there is a Kin Pancake Breakfast from 8-11:00am. The Lion's Family Snow Derby takes place from 9:00am to 1:00pm. No trail permit required. The Eagle Lake SC Spaghetti Supper is at the Lions Hall from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. The Kin Karnival Queen will be crowned after the Spaghetti Supper. Mini Kids Karnival - 11:00am to 4:00pm at the School. In the evening, take part in the Kin Karnival Dance at the Bayview Motel starting at 9:00 pm. Age of Majority only.

Sunday February 19 - Have breakfast at the Kin Pancake Breakfast at the Lions Hall from 9:00am-11:30am. The Queen Contest Raffle Draw will be at 11:00am. The Kin Family Fish Derby takes place from the Eagle Lake Government Dock, 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Awards are at the Lions Hall from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. For more information on the Vermilion Bay Kin Karnival, visit www.experiencedryden.ca or contact Scott at 807-227-2904. For more information on Vermilion Bay visit www.visitmachin.com



Dryden Winter Festival - February 18-20, 2012

Take part in the Dryden Annual Winter Festival starting on Saturday February 18th. On Saturday, there will be a Grand Opening Ceremony at the Dryden Memorial Arena and then a fun hockey event for kids to watch, the Dryden Ice Dogs vs. Cops.

Sunday, February 19th is packed with activities. Start the day with breakfast at Moose Hall Breakfast from 9:00am-Noon. Take part in the 32nd Annual Snowarama for Easter Seals kids. Enjoy free activities such as the Family Fun Skate at the Dryden Memorial Arena, the Family Fun Swim at the Pool and Fitness Centre and the Skating Oval & Sliding Hill at Van Horne Landing. Warm up at the Bonfire & Warm Up Hut in the afternoon. There are also free Snowkiting Lessons & Demos.

Monday, Family Day, starts with a Pancake Breakfast at the Royal Canadian Legion. 3 on 3 Hockey Tourney at the Dryden Memorial Arena. There are many free activities again on Monday. Try Water Fit, Family Fun Swim, or Progressive Tennis at the Pool and Fitness Centre. Try your luck at the Family Fishing Derby on Wabigoon Lake. A fishing license is not needed as this is the Free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend. Holes are pre-drilled, just bring your rods & bait. We look forward to a fun family fishing day with you! Pimp Your Ice Shack - A panel of judges will make their rounds to ice shacks on Wabigoon Lake on February 20th. Pimp your shack along the ice road for easy judging OR provide transportation to your shack for the judge’s view. There will also be free Sleigh Rides & Dog Sled Rides, Snowkiting Lessons & Demos and skating and sliding at the Skating Oval & Sliding Hill at Van Horne Landing.

For more information on events and exact times, visit Experience Dryden. You may also call 807-223-1426 or email akidd@dryden.ca or winterfest@dryden.ca

Sioux Lookout Pond Hockey Tournament

Sioux Mountain Winter Festival - February 24-26

Sioux Lookout hosts an annual Sioux Mountain Winter Festival. The Legion Ladies Auxiliary host a beef on a bun event on Friday night. The Warrior boys hockey have their annual pancake breakfast on Sunday morning. The star of the show is the fifth annual Pelican Lake Pond Hockey Tournament taking place Saturday and Sunday at the Forest Inn Lakefront. For more information on the Pelican Lake Pond Hockey Tournament, contact Christine Hoey at 737-7955 or Email: christine@siouxtravel.ca The festival will run from February 24 until the 26 and takes place in various locations in Sioux Lookout as well as on Pelican Lake.

Kenora Winter Carnival - March 2-4, 2012

The Kenora Winter Carnival opens on Friday with free hot chocolate at 6:30pm under the tent. At 6:45pm the winner of the 2012 Snow Sculpture will be announced and then fireworks start at 7:00pm. Also at 7:00pm is a Euchre Tournament at the Keewatin Seniors Centre. The Rockin' Roots & Blues begins at 8:00pm at Shooters featuring live music by The Crooked Brothers, Bourbon Creek, Romi Mayes, and Jr Boy Jones with Ms. Kerrie Lapai.

Saturday is jammed pack with events at the Harbourfront and around town. At the Kenora Harbourfront you can find vendors and food concessions from 10:00am-5:00pm. The Kids Carnival and Funtastic Castle will be there from 10:00am-4:00pm. Beaver Creek Ranch will be there from 11:00am-3:00pm offering wagon rides. Have a talented dog? Bring him or her to the Dog Agility Contest at noon. At 1:00pm Boardanyone is putting on a snowboard competition. At 2:00pm there will be a Servers Scuttle, where teams of 2 people race through an obstacle course, holding a tray of glasses filled with water. The Sunset Trail Riders are also holding a Poker Derby.

Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is hosting a Dummy Downhill Race at 2:30pm. There is a free Public Swim from 3:15-5:15 at the Kenora Recreation Centre. Saturday night is hopping with the 4th Annual Hosers and Mukluks Winter Ball at the Lakeshore Hotel in Keewatin and the Rockin' Roots & Blues continues at Shooters featuring: Hillbilly Burlesque, the F Holes, Shadow Junction, and Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials.

Sunday of the Kenora Winter Carnival begins with a pancake breakfast at the Harbourfront from 10:00am-12:00pm. Also at the Harbourfront with be the Kids Carnival and Funtastic Castle and Snowmobile Rides from 10:00am-2:00pm. The Log Sawing Competition begins at noon and the Great Canadian Canoe Race begins at 12:30pm. Mount Evergreen Ski Hill is also hosting Dawn of the Shred at 11:00am. Beaver Creek Ranch is hosting a Girls Night from 6:00pm-8:00pm. You must pre-register for some of the events, please visit the Kenora Winter Carnival website for more information and to download registration sheets. If you are coming into Kenora for the weekend, the Super 8 is offering a Roots and Blues Package.

Cribbage Tournament at the Nestor Falls Winter Carnival

 

Nestor Falls Winter Carnival - March 2-4, 2012

Friday, March 2nd, 2012:

The Nestor Falls Winter Carnival begins with the judging of the Ice & Snow sculptures at 4:00pm. At 7:00pm come to "Without a Trace's" live performance at the Nestor Falls Community Hall. They'll play Country and Rock hits from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & Today! Only 100 seats available. Age of Majority strictly enforced. Free entry in the All Participants Draw with ticket purchase! Only $10.

Saturday, March 3rd, 2012:

Registration for all events is at the Nestor Falls Community Hall. Get your ice fishing rods ready, the Winter Carnival Fishing Derby takes place from 7:00am – 5:00pm. The Poker Derby runs from 9:00am – 4:00pm as does the Scavenger Hunt. The Cribbage Tournament as well as Kid's Games start at 11:30am. Winter Photos will be judged and the winner announced. Submit your best winter themed photo by e-mailing it to Kiley Hanson at kileyhanson@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Photos must be high resolution and in image file format. At 5:00pm Awards and attendance prizes will be awarded. Cash bar and canteen will be available starting at 11:00 am. Entry fee for all events automatically enters to win an All Participants’ Draw. Saturday night features a Live Band - "Highway 71" at the 30th Annual Winter Carnival Dance from 9:00pm – 1:00am. $5 cover. Age of Majority strictly enforced.

Sunday, March 4th, 2012:

Fill up at the Pancake Breakfast from 8:00am-11:00am. It's all you can eat pancakes & sausage! $4.00/adult, $2/children 12 & under and Seniors eat free!

For more information on any events or activities at the Nestor Falls Winter Carnival, contact Kiley Hanson – kileyhanson@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 276-4405 or visit the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls website – www.livethelakelife.ca


Please visit the Sunset Country Events page for more information on other winter carnivals or events. If you have a winter carnival you'd like added to this post please email me.

4 Shows the Whole Family Will Love

Flyin' Bob opens the Children's Entertainment Series circuit in Northwest Ontario. Atikokan's Children's Entertainment Series, Dryden's Children's Delight Series, Fort Frances' Kids and Company, Kenora's Sunday Smiles, Red Lake's Family Entertainment Series,  and Sioux Lookout Kids Kaleidoscope have been offering four, high quality performances that focus mostly on dance, music theatre and puppetry for children and their families Sunset Country.

The 2011/12 performances are as follows:

Flyin' Bob

From the rainbow skywriter, to a dramatic and nearly disastrous finale on the 9 foot high, 20 foot long tight-wire, Flyin' Bob; balancer, wire walker, professional idiot and highly skilled goofball, takes you on a visit to the one man three ring circus in his mind. He views the world as filled with toys, and tries to convince his audience to see it the same way. The most common reaction after seeing the show is, "This guy has too much time on his hands!". Flyin' Bob considers this the highest possible compliment.

• October 20, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• October 21, 2011 at 6:30 pm at New Prospect School in Dryden
• October 22, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake 
• October 23, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora
• October 24, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• October 26, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus 

Based on the book by L Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz, this exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and adopted by the wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the very first toys. Meet the original reindeer Glossie and Flossie as well as the chilly rogue Jack Frost and find out the answer to lots of Christmas questions! Why do we hang stockings? Where the first Christmas tree was decorated? And finally how he came to be known as Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus. Packed with funny jokes, inventive puppets, enchanting songs and tons of opportunities for the audience to join in, The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus is both a beautifully crafted story and an engaging piece of theatre.

• November 17, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• November 18, 2011 at 6:30 pm at The Centre in Dryden
• November 19, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• November 20, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• November 21, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• November 23, 2011 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan 

Anders Magic 

Winnipeg magician Anders has been performing and astounding audiences professionally for over 10 years. Anders' show is an interactive combination of magic, juggling, comedy and pick-pocketing. The kids will be glad to know he uses plenty of audience participation but watch out for Anders' 2 animal co-stars Rocky and Vinnie. A true entertainer, Anders strives to make your experience memorable and magical. This 60 minute show is sure to impress and delight all ages.

• February 23, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• February 24, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the New Prospect School in Dryden
• February 25, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• February 26, 2012 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• February 27, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• February 29, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

Project Soul

Project Soul was created to share the love and passion of hip hop. It shows the positive impact it can have on communities and how it connects/identifies with so many of today's youth. The group is made up of individuals who each specialize in different genres of street dance: popping, locking, hip hop, street jazz and breakdance. The show highlights these individual lives and how they came together as Project Soul.

Project Soul begins with the opening of their current touring show: how music gave them the gift of dance. This leads into each individual performer's solo that include biographical voiceovers expressing how they got involved with street dance culture and what impact it has on their lives. In conclusion they end with how hip hop has brought them together as a group, a community and given them much more understanding of their own identity.

• April 19, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Sacred Heart School in Sioux Lookout
• April 20, 2012 at 6:30 pm at New Prospect School in Dryden
• April 21, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Red Lake District High School in Red Lake
• April 22, 2012 at 2:00 pm at Lakewood School in Kenora 
• April 23, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Townshend Theatre in Fort Frances
• April 25, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Atikokan High School in Atikokan

For more information and ticket prices, please visit:

Atikokan: Atikokan Children's Entertainment Series or call Kathy at 807-597-4306
Dryden: Children's Delight Series
Fort Frances: Kids and Company
Kenora: Sunday Smiles or Sunday Smiles on Facebook
Red Lake: Family Entertainment Series
Sioux Lookout: Kids Kaleidoscope

A Whole Festival Related to Blueberries? You Betcha!

Over 110 Events at This Year's Blueberry Festival in Sioux Lookout

Blueberry Festival, Sioux Lookout, Ontario

The Blueberry Festival is a 10 day festival celebrating the community of Sioux Lookout. It runs from July 29-August 7, 2011. With over 110 events this year, the Blueberry Festival has become a grand summer celebration attracting thousands of visitors from around the region and around the world. Blueberries are abundant in Northwest Ontario so it only seems fitting to have a Blueberry Festival. Wild blueberries are one of my favourite fruit and my mouth is watering a little bit as I write this. Starting on the Friday of August long weekend and lasting for ten days, residents and visitors come together and form a bond of great communal spirit. Many of the events encompass the beauty of the area, allowing participants and spectators to enjoy the plentiful lakes and beaches. From the very young to the young at heart, and from the athletically inclined to the most sedate sport enthusiasts, there is something for everyone at the Blueberry Festival.

The festival starts with the Blueberry Festival Opening Ceremonies taking place at the Town Beach from 3:30-6pm. There will be face painting, free balloons, speeches, Kenora Scottish Pipes & Drums performance, entertainment by Edible Rex, presentation of the Jack McKenzie Memorial Award, and the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and cake. This sets the scene for the next 10 days in Sioux Lookout. Many of the restaurants even get in on the action by offering blueberry themed baking, meals and even Blueberry Mojitos at Foxy's July 29th from 5:30-9pm. Visit the Forest Bar & Grill at the Forest Inn from July 29-August 7 and receive a piece of blueberry pie with the purchase of any entree after 4:30pm. Drop by the Mayfair Theatre for a blueberry snack. Blueberry cheesecake ice cream, blueberry milkshakes, and blueberry sundaes will be available all week. Visit Dick & Nellie's Restaurant for a taste of blueberry spirit. The menu features Homemade Blueberry BBQ Pork Ribs, Cool Summer Blueberry Soup with Creme Fraiche, Blueberry Panna Cotta Cream Dessert, and more! The Dick & Nellie's blueberry inspired menu is available from 4:30pm to closing until August 6.

Some of the other events include a Blueberry Window Painting Contest, a Bannock Bake-off, Blueberry Rock-Paper-Scissors Tournament, the Annual Roy Lane 10K Road Race, Family Fun Day, Wagon Rides, and much more. Get a bird's eye view of Sioux Lookout with a Slate Falls Town Tour. There are also golf, beach volleyball, bocce, tennis, road hockey, dodgeball, hockey, basketball tournaments.

Sioux Mountain Music and Cultural Festival is held on July 30-31. Saturday is a day of live music at the Town Beach featuring local artists and more! From noon to midnight, come and enjoy music, workshops, vendors, and food!

 Visit the Blueberry Festival website to see the complete Sioux Mountain Festival Line Up. There will also be a BBQ, Sioux Mountain Festival t-shirts, draws, raffles, give-a-ways and the Taste of Sioux Lookout (local chefs offering their signature dishes). On Sunday, come to the Town Beach from 12-6pm and experience all Cultural Day has to offer. Featuring workshops, music, booths, demonstrations, and other fun activities such as  snow shoe making,
tie dying, 
dance workshops, 
craft booths 
and so much more!

August 7th is the Annual Childrens Festival. Take your kids to the Town Beach from 10am-2pm for the 5th Annual Childrens Festival featuring a Dog Parade, Comic Book Workshop, Diamond Dogs Show, Cedar Bay Wagon Rides & much more.

With over 100 events, I can't list them all! See the Blueberry Festival for a complete listing of events. For more information on Sioux Lookout, please visit the Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce or www.ontariotowns.net/SiouxLookout/

UPDATE:  A list of all the winners at the various events at the 2011 Blueberry Festival can be found on the Blueberry Festival's website.

Angler Young Angler Introduces Kids to Competitive Fishing

Focus on Kids at AYA Tournament!

Dryden AYA 2011 Winners John Butts, Aidan Butts and Luke Turcotte

The Angler Young Angler program takes place in Red Lake, Dryden and Thunder Bay Ontario as well as many other cities in Canada and the U.S. This year's Championship is in Kenora on Lake of the Woods. The Angler & Young Angler Tournaments started in 1998 with the intent of giving  youth the opportunity to fish in a Competitive style tournament.  The main objective is to introduce young anglers to competitive sport fishing in a fun environment surrounded by family and friends. Kids get to spend time with their parents fishing together. The memories created will last a life time.

This year Red Lake held their event on June 5th on Red Lake. Dryden's  was on July 9th on Wabigoon Lake, Thunder Bay's was also on July 9th on the Kam River and the National Championship is being held held on Lake of the Woods in Kenora this year taking place on August 13th. The 2011 winner of the Dryden AYA was John Butts, Aidan Butts and Luke Turcotte. Gord Ellis along with team members Austin Ellis and Landon Brochu won in Thunder Bay this year. The 2011 winners from Red Lake were Ed Goulet, Jenna Goulet and Brett Kreiger.

Huge walleye from Dryden's AYA Winning Team

Each team consists of 1 adult angler and 2 young anglers under the age of 17. Since fishing is the main attraction in this part of Ontario, the tournaments are one of the highlights of the summer and a fun family event! There is an official weigh-in, prizes and a BBQ to follow a day of fishing. The winner of each regional event qualifies for the opportunity to participate in the International Championship. The first place team wins the title of  'Angler & Young Angler International Champions'  as well as an all expense paid trip for 4 to Walt Disney World.  The second place team wins a fishing trip for 4 to a Wilderness North lodge. Past years have seen trips include Knee Lake Resort, Plummers Lodge, Totem Resorts and to Arctic Adventures.

In March 2012, there will be the Third Angler Young Angler Ice Fishing Derby. The 2011 Ice Fishing Derby was held on Lake Winnipeg. Carter Johnson, an 8 year old angler stole the day catching a huge 12.08 greenback walleye. For his catch, Carter won a trip to God's Lake Lodge.

The AYA events are filmed and presented on TV. The series is broadcast throughout the country, reaching millions of children who do not have the chance to participate in the tournaments. A goal of the AYA Fishing Tournaments is to expand the exposure of youth fishing throughout Canada, by participation in the tournaments and reaching them through TV. Go the Angler Young Angler web site to see video clips of excited kids and families fishing across North America. You can also find out information on how you too can become a part of the AYA experience.

For a list of other fishing tournaments in Northwest Ontario, please visit our list of Fishing Tournaments in Sunset Country.

UPDATE: August 16, 2011
The winner of the 2011 Angler Young Angler Championship on Lake of the Woods was John Butts of Dryden, a former Professional Walleye Tour angler, his son Aidan Butts and friend Luke Turcotte (pictured above after winning the AYA in Dryden earlier this summer). The Dryden Team won the tournament by 1.22 lbs, with a total of 46.41 lbs. Second place winners were Ed Goulet, Jenna Goulet and Brett Kreiger from Red Lake, Ontario. The winners win a trip for four to Walt Disney World and the Red Lake trio win a trip for four to a Wilderness North fly-in lodge.

How to Win $20,000 Fishing

Anglers waiting to weigh in at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship

The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship is set to take place July 17-23, 2011 on Rainy Lake. If there's a full roster, the top prize is $20,000. Not bad for a couple of days fishing. The total prize package with a full roster is $102,000. There are prizes for daily top top catch, biggest daily fish, and more. There is even a top 2011 Rookie Team prize. The best rookie will have entry into the 2012 tournament.

But besides the payout there is lot's of reasons why to experience a fishing tournament. The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship goes all out and has a major celebration. The event starts with the Safeway Kid Pro fishing July 17th from 7am-3pm. On July 19th, there is a Much Music Video Dance Party. The Boston Pizza Parade of Boats begins at 3:00 and then at 7pm the Quest for the Best begins. July 21-23 the fishing starts with the Flight #1 departing from the Government Dock at Pithers' Point Park. Thursday the anglers return at 3:30pm. There's a Chicken 'n Ribs dinner from 4:30-7:30pm. Friday the dinner is Floppin' Fresh Fish Dinner and then Kartune Kriminals and Bed of Roses (Canada's #1 Bon Jovi Tribute Band) hit the stage. Saturday the excitement grows as people wonder who will come in with the biggest catch, who will win? The Top Ten Boat Parade begins at 5:00 and the Angler Awards presentation begins at 7:00. There is a Kiwanis Streak Fry  and in the evening Borderland's favourite local band, Thinking of Pinky takes the stand. For more information visit the FFCBC website or visit their Facebook page.

The 5th Annual Friends and Family Bronze Back Classic is held from July 23-24,  2011 on Lake of the Woods. The entry fee is $400.00 and there is a 100% pay out on entries. The focus of the Bronze Back Classic is to get families, friends, local anglers, long time summer residents, and especially youth involved in this boating event.

Angler showing his bass to the crowd at KBI

August begins with another big bass tournament. The Kenora Bass International  (KBI) is held on Lake of the Woods in Kenora, Ontario from August 4-6th. If there are 150 entries, the top place receives $25,000. There are many other ways to win as well. There are 10 big catch prizes, biggest smallmouth, biggest largemouth, prizes for the top 30 placing in the KBI, adult/youth team, man/woman team and more. See the pay out schedule for complete prize estimates. Every year a battle wages between Canada and the U.S. along the shores of Lake of the Woods. 5 teams representing Canada and 5 teams representing the USA compete against each other for the honour and glory of being crowned the winner and for the Frank Townsend Can-Am Challenge trophy.

Anglers will fish Thursday to Saturday. Delicious dinners and beer gardens welcome anglers and the public in the evenings. Saturday is the big finale with the top 10 boats parading through the tent to an exciting finish. There also is a KBI Kids Tournament that is open to kids ages 4-13. The children will be fishing off the Kenora Harbourfront docks. There will be a prize presentation at the end of each flight, loot bag and t-shirt for every child who participates. A trophy and a special prize will be awarded to the male and female anglers with the biggest bass on each day! There is also free kids entertainment including Minnow Races from 11:30am - 2:30pm. For more information on the Kenora Bass International visit the KBI website. With Shaw as a major sponsor, the tournament can now be viewed on TV. Current standings can also be found on the KBI website once the tournament starts.

Next in the line-up of Sunset Country Tournaments is the Atikokan Bass Classic August 12-13. It is touted as the "Funnest Bass Tournament in the Northwest". Payout is 96% of Team Entry with the first place finish netting approximately $10,000. Besides the top 10 teams, prizes will also go to the best Parent & Child, Grandparent & Child, All Women, Male/Female Teams and for the biggest fish.  Access into Marmion Lake is at  the Anderson Dam Landing.  Competitors are provided a free steak supper the Friday night of the tourney.

Fishermen bringing in their bass to get weighed

The Morson Bass International is held on Lake of the Woods in Morson from August 27-28.  This Catch and Release Bass Tournament  starts at the Government Dock in Morson.  View a video of the Morson Bass International. Like many of the other fishing tournaments in Sunset Country, the MBI has a kids fishing tournament,  yummy dinners and entertainment. You can download an Entry Form or get more information on the Morson Bass International website.

September begins with the Red Lake Fall Classic Catch & Release Walleye Tournament on the Red Lake Chain of Lakes on September 2-4.  Based on 140 team entries, the top prize is $11,000.  Second prize is $5,000 & 2 Humminbird Trolling Locators and third is $3,000 & 2 MinnKota Trolling Motors. See the Red Lake Falls Classic Prize structure for more prizes. Both days the 3 flights leave between 7 and 7:30am. Saturday there is a free supper for tournament participants where they can see the posting of first day standings.  Sunday around 6pm you can visit the Red Lake Legion to see the prize and trophy awards. Saturday afternoon also has a Junior  Championship at the Government Docks. Prizes for all children.

Perch Lake Bass Challenge  is held on the Seine River Chain of Lakes September 4th. Meet at Homer's Cabins on Perch Lake 20 minutes west of Atikokan. Top prize is $1000 & possession of tournament trophy for 3 months. Top 5 win cash prizes. There are also prizes for the biggest fish, Top Lund team, top young angler and top couple. Rules & Boat Checks at 8am, fishing between 9am to 3:30pm. The 2011 PLBC is now full. To get your name on the waiting list, email info@perchlakebass.com

Bassin' for Bucks is a fishing tournament on Lake of the Woods from Sioux Narrows September 9-11. The Sioux Narrows Bassin’ for Bucks tournament format is a two person team, fishing for 3 days, daily and total combined weight, live release tournament. Besides prizes for the top 6 each day, the grand aggregate weight prizes are as follows: 1st place is $6000, 2nd is $5000 and 3rd is $4000. There are also prizes for Tournament Big Fish, Big Smallmouth each day and Big Largemouth each day. Prize structure based on 120 entries. The flights leave between 7:30 & 8 each morning. Must fish these areas: Red Cliff Bay, Yellow Girl Bay, Whitefish Bay, Lobstick Bay, Regina Bay, Cross, Knickerbocker and Blueberry Inlets, and anywhere else accessible by boat that is within the boundaries. Out of bounds is all waters West and North of the longitudinal line #25’ that runs from the Northwestern tip of the Eastern Peninsula, South to the West side of Ferrier Island to the Aulneau Peninsula.

One of the Top 10 anglers parading through the tent

Crow Lake Classic Bass Tournament is held on Crow Lake September 16-17. Held at Hansons Hideaway Lodge on Crow Lake (Kakagi lake). $350 entry fee per team. Download registration form at the Crow Lake Classic website. Based on 50 entries, the top prize is $4,000. The top ten get cash prizes ranging from $4,000 to $350. New in 2011 are first, second and third top daily bag prizes. There is also a team draw for 2 Shimano Rod & Reel Combos, a Secret Number Placement and Closet Team to 10lb Daily bag prizes. The top 2 placing Princecraft boats powered by Mercury motors win 24 volt trolling motors.

During the fall the Ontario walleye tournaments start up again. The Rainy River Walleye Tournament in Rainy River is held September 22-24. The overall prize purse will be $43,450 with the champion earning $15,000. There are prizes for the top 15, 4 hidden weight prizes, a parade prize, River Champ, Day 1 & 2 Big Fish and the Lionel Roberts Memorial Award Largest Basket of Tournament $1,000 prize. Thursday has a parade of boats at 4pm, Fisherman's Dinner (contestants only) and then beer gardens open to the public. Friday, anglers leave between 8:45am & 9:15am. Saturday anglers leave between 7:45 & 8:15am. 3:15 the anglers weigh in and then the Awards Presentation and the Rainy River Junior Curlers Draw follows. There is a  Weekend of fun and excitement for the whole family under the Big Tent on the shores of Beautiful Rainy River! Visit the Rainy River Walleye Tournament website for more information.

The Last Chance Bass is held on Shoal Lake September 24-25. Contact Randy Paishk 807-733-3940 or or Vern Fair  807-733-3191 for more information.

The Whitefish Bay Fall Bass Classic is held in Nestor Falls on Dogpaw, Caviar and Flint Lakes. The tournament runs October 1-. For more information call 807-226-5411.

The third annual Lake of the Woods Walleye Challenge will be held on Lake of the Woods in Morson October 7-8. It is a 2 day fishing tournament. $300 per team. Cash and merchandise prizes to anglers and spectators. Last year 21 teams participated for $6,500 in cash and prizes with 100% of entry fees going back to the top placing entries and prizes for hidden weight, top finishing husband/wife team and top finishing parent/child team.  Spectators and anglers are invited for a dinner at the Morson Hall. For more information call 807-488-5905.

So, while it may sound easy to win 10 or 20 thousand dollars, it is far from it. Sure, there's a lot of luck in fishing, but there is a lot of preparation. Many anglers spend time and money pre-fishing a lake before a tournament. All in all though, a fishing tournament can be quite fun to participate in. Some anglers do the circuit and fish tournaments all summer long, some just do one in their community. The fishing tournaments I have listed here are coming up in the rest of 2011. For a complete list of fishing tournaments in Northwest Ontario, visit our fishing page on Sunset Country's website. Maybe next year I'll be reading about you winning the jackpot.

Events Highlight a Summer of Fun!

Let's Party

Summer is party time in Ontario's Sunset Country and there are a boat load of events in the towns and cities across the region. In Red Lake you can take in the Norseman Festival and experience the lore of the Canadian bush plane. Dryden, Ontario is hosting the 2010 CMWA Canadian Championships in windsurfing and it promises to be an exciting event. Kenora's annual Harbourfest is a rock and roll party you don't want to miss. Dance the night away on the shores of Lake of the Woods under the big tent. Fort Frances, Ontario has its 2nd annual Folk Festival this summer and you can also listen to music at the Trout Forest Music Festival in Ear Falls - on beautiful Lac Seul!

Wherever you are this summer you can find a community event going on. There is always something to do! Here is a list of 2010 festivals and events in Sunset Country, Ontario

Festivals and Events - Party Time in Sunset Country

Festivals a Big Part of Summer

Summer is celebrated in a big way in Ontario's Sunset Country. It is the true "tourist season" - the time of year when visitor numbers are at their highest. Folks from the United States, Europe and as far away as Asia and the Pacific flock to this part of Canada. Why you ask, because they want to enjoy the incredible outdoor travel experiences we offer!. Set in the boreal forest and with 70,000 freshwater lakes Sunset Country attracts fisherman, hunters, campers, wilderness canoeists and families who can find unique and fun things to do.



In this post we want to focus on the festivals and events taking place in our towns and cities. It's summer and we're in a partying mood and you can always find something going on. In Red Lake, Ontario for example the Norseman Float Plane Festival is a great time and it takes place the last week of July. Vintage bush planes are the star attraction but stage entertainment, and many family activities also occur. Ear Falls offer one of Central Canada's best outdoor music experience at the Trout Forest Music Festival. Listen to major acts and enjoy a great camping trip at the same time.

Dryden's major summer festival is Moosefest with 9 days of exciting activities going on. A major windsurfing regatta one event you won't want to miss. Kenora has the big party along the shores of Lake of the Woods - Harbourfest - features major rock bands, and with the Agricultural Fair, going on at the same time, it is an event you don't want to miss.

Meet Blueberry Bert at the Sioux Lookout Blueberry Festival. This event begins at the end of July and celebrates the harvest of a wild blueberries in the area. Many family-oriented activities make this a great idea for your family vacation - stay at nearby Ojibway Provincial Park or right in town. Pickle Lake laughs at one of the region's pest at the Black Fly Festival. If you are "at the end of the road" when it's on you'll find a wide variety of things to do and see.

Atikokan celebrates it reputation as a canoeing destination each year at Canoefest. Quetico Park just turned 100 years old in 2009 so there is lot's to celebrate in this great town west of Thunder Bay.