“Kick off Canada Day celebrations supporting your local, independent businesses. We’ve seen a very strong “Buy Canada” sentiment during the first half of the year. With continuing tariff threats, supply chain challenges and cost uncertainty, we want to make sure that momentum carries through the second half of the year. There’s no better way to support Canadian than to shop at your local Canadian-owned small businesses,” said Ryan Mallough, CFIB’s vice-president of legislative affairs.

New CFIB data shows that since the start of the trade war, nearly four in ten (39%) small businesses have seen increased sales of Canadian/locally made products – especially in the retail (44%), hospitality (43%) and wholesale (41%) sectors. Businesses that actively promote these products were more than twice as likely to see growth in sales of Canadian/locally made products (55% vs 23%).

CFIB’s #SmallBusinessEveryDay Big Thank You Contest is a chance to win big!

The Big Thank You Contest is presented by CFIB in partnership with Scotiabank, Interac Corp. (Interac), and Chase Payment Solutions. Small business supporters can enter two weekly draws by visiting SmallBusinessEveryDay.ca and leaving a thank you message to their favourite small Canadian business.

Each week, one supporter and the business they thanked will be drawn as winners. The supporter will receive a $1,000 cash prize to spend locally, and a Big Thank You gift box filled with products from small businesses across Canada and the contest’s sponsors. The business will receive $3,000, a gift box, and a free one-year CFIB membership. An additional $3,000 bonus prize will go to the business with the most nominations at the end of the contest.

“Small businesses support a whole local ecosystem. They employ local residents, support local causes and source their goods and services from other local businesses,” added Mallough. “Sixty-six cents of every dollar spent local, stays local. Every time Canadians choose to shop at a small business, they strengthen their communities,” Mallough said.

To help businesses get involved, CFIB has created free digital toolkits, with printable posters and customizable social images to promote the contest and shopping local. For more information on how to support small businesses, check out SmallBusinessEveryDay.ca.

The post This Canada Day, Shop Local And Thank Your Favourite Small Business For A Chance To Win appeared first on Muskoka411.

Ingredients
1 package chocolate wafers
1 cup whipping cream
2 tbsp icing sugar
1 tsp vanilla
diced strawberries or sprinkles

Instructions
Beat whipping cream, icing sugar, and vanilla on high speed until thickened.
Spread whipping cream over chocolate wafers. Stack in groups of 4.
Place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Add sprinkles or strawberries just before serving.
Makes approximately 8 mini ice box cakes.  Enjoy!

The post Try These Mini Ice Box Cakes For Canada Day appeared first on Muskoka411.

Tim Hortons is helping guests get ready to celebrate Canada Day with sweet treats to share with family and friends and a collection of drinkware that features beautiful vistas from each province.

Available now just in time for Canada Day at participating Tims restaurants are:

• Inspired by the fireworks that will cap off Canada Day, the Canada Celebration Donut features red and white sprinkles and fizzy candy clusters that pop in your mouth.
  
  
• The 2025 Tim Hortons Travel Collection of drinkware has a lineup of ceramic and stainless steel mugs featuring beautiful landscapes from each province. Ceramic mugs featuring landmarks from Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary and Niagara Falls are also available, as is the popular Canada Travel Mug. They are all also available on TimShop.ca.
  
  
• The Summer Timbits Bucket can be purchased with 31 Timbits and is perfect for sharing at your Canada Day gathering.

“Canada Day is a time to come together and celebrate everything we love about our country. At Tim Hortons, we’re honoured to be part of those moments, whether fueling up on a road trip or sharing Timbits under the Canada Day fireworks,” said Carolina Berti, Vice President of Category and Innovation for Tim Hortons.

“We’re excited to celebrate the country we all love so much with our new drinkware collection and Canada Celebration Donut.”

Cool off on Canada Day with an Iced Capp offer – exclusive for Tims Rewards members

Tims Rewards members will soon receive an exclusive offer in the Tims app to buy an Iced Capp and get a second Iced Capp for 50 per cent off. This members-only offer starts June 27 and runs until July 1. Join the Tims Rewards loyalty program in the Tims app to participate. See the Tims app for offer terms and conditions.

The post New Canada Celebration Donut At Tim Hortons appeared first on Muskoka411.

Sadly, one person lost their life in a boating incident over the long weekend. During the campaign which focused on seatbelt, lifejacket and helmet laws, the OPP laid 1,287 seatbelt-related charges, 96 charges for lifejacket and other marine safety equipment violations and 34 “no helmet” charges.

Among the overall 17,889 traffic/marine charges laid throughout the enforcement/education campaign (June 21-July 1, 2024) were:
Speeding: 8,421
Stunt driving: 224
Impaired driving: 447
Distracted driving: 173

The OPP thanks all drivers and passengers who kicked off the summer and celebrated the Canada Day long weekend with safety at top of mind and encourages them to continue to do so throughout the year.

The OPP is committed to delivering on its Provincial Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims to reduce injuries and fatalities on more than 130,000 kilometres of roadways and close to 100,000 kilometres of waterways and trails throughout Ontario.

The post OPP Kept Busy During Canada Day Long Weekend With Several Charges appeared first on Muskoka411.

The Ontario government is celebrating this Canada Day by encouraging fishing enthusiasts and first-timers alike to enjoy free fishing from June 29 to July 7. This is a great opportunity to recognize the province’s angling traditions and to get outdoors and enjoy Canada Day.

The post Ontario Celebrating Canada Day With Free Fishing appeared first on Muskoka411.

Every day, the CBSA works hard to protect Canadians, support the economy and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across our borders. In 2023, we welcomed over 86M travellers and intercepted more than 72,200 kg of prohibited drugs, cannabis, narcotics, and chemicals, representing an increase of close to 30% from 2022.

The CBSA dedicates significant efforts to planning and preparing for peak periods, including long weekends and summer months. CBSA monitors traveller volumes and plan to minimize border wait times at land ports of entry and at international airports, without compromising safety and security.

Here are some tips to help you plan for your trip:

Before you travel, plan ahead

• Check border wait times and expect delays.
  • Early mornings are the best time to cross the border to avoid wait times
  • The Mondays after holiday long weekends tend to be the busiest.
  • Consider an alternative port of entry with shorter wait times or less traffic.
  • Check the port of entry’s hours of operation on the official CBSA Directory of Offices and Services
  • If you are using a GPS application (such as Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze) to direct you to a port of entry, consider checking different navigation options (such as fastest and shortest routes) to determine the preferred route of travel.
• Have your travel documents handy. Speed up processing times by always coming prepared with your travel documents.
• Travelling with children? When travelling with a child who is not your own or for whom you don’t have full legal custody, we recommend you have a consent letter from the parent or legal guardian authorizing you to travel with the child. CBSA is always watching for missing children, and in the absence of the letter, officers may ask additional questions.
• Flying into Canada? Use Advance Declaration and make your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at participating airports.
• Entering Canada by boat? You must report to the CBSA without delay. Review reporting requirements for private boaters before making travel plans.

At the border, be prepared to declare

Declare everything you have with you upon entry into Canada. If arriving by land, you are responsible for everything inside your vehicle. If you are the operator of a boat entering Canadian waters with the intent to disembark, you are responsible for reporting your goods on board.

Are you bringing any of the following into Canada?

• Food, plant, or animal products: Consult the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) before bringing any food, plant, or animal products into Canada.
• Poultry products: Be sure to review current restrictions on poultry and birds from the United States before bringing these products across the border. Homemade food or leftovers containing poultry cannot be brought into Canada.
• Fireworks: Consult Importing, exporting and transporting fireworks to ensure that the fireworks you are bringing in are authorized.
• Medication: Make sure you understand your responsibilities when travelling with medication.
• Firewood: Firewood from outside of Canada is not permitted as it may contain diseases or invasive insects. Buy local and burn local.
• Goods purchased abroad: If you are a Canadian resident, personal exemptions allow you to bring goods (up to a certain value), back to Canada without paying regular duty and taxes – including alcohol and tobacco.
  • Make sure know how much you are bringing back in Canadian dollars and have your receipts readily available for the officer.
  • Use the CBSA duty and taxes estimator to help estimate the amounts owed on goods purchased abroad.

Restricted and prohibited goods

Make sure you review the necessary information before attempting to bring certain items into Canada.  If not, you risk having your goods seized or facing fines and/or prosecution.

• Firearms: Leave them at home. You are encouraged not to travel with firearms. If you choose to do so, be sure to check the rules on importing firearms.
• Weapons: Other restricted and prohibited goods include pepper spray, switchblades, and butterfly knives.
• Narcotics:  Narcotics such as cocaine and heroin, are illegal in Canada. If you are found to be in possession of illegal drugs (on your person, in your vehicle, or in your luggage) you will be arrested and may be charged. The drugs will be seized.
• Cannabis: Don’t bring it in. Don’t take it out. While cannabis is legal in Canada, bringing it across the border in any form, including oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution. A medical prescription from a doctor does not count as Health Canada authorization.

Not sure? Ask a CBSA officer. The best way to save time is to be open and honest with the CBSA officer. If you are not sure about what to declare, don’t hesitate to ask.

For more information, visit the CBSA Website or call them at 1-800-461-9999.

The post Travelling For Canada Day Or U.S. Independence Day? The CBSA Gives Tips For A Smoother Trip appeared first on Muskoka411.

• Municipal Office, 1000 Taylor Court
• Bracebridge Sportsplex, 110 Clearbrook Trail
• Bracebridge Memorial Arena, 169 James Street
• Bracebridge Library, 94 Manitoba Street
• Bracebridge Fire Station 1, 225 Taylor Road

Facilities will re-open for service during their regular business hours on Tuesday, July 2.

Canada Day in Downtown Bracebridge
Manitoba Street
4 to 8 p.m.

The Downtown Bracebridge Business Improvement Area (BIA) has a spectacular celebration planned to celebrate Canada’s birthday. Stroll up and down Manitoba Street to shop and support local businesses, enjoy kids make and take crafts and live music, or challenge friends and family to a game of pickle ball, badminton, cornhole, Yardzee and more. Fireworks will begin at 10 p.m.

Learn more at downtownbracebridge.com/events-calendar.

Bracebridge Fire
Bracebridge Fire Station 1 will be closed to the public on Canada Day. In the event of an emergency, please call 9-1-1. Residents are reminded that daytime burning is not permitted from April 1 to October 31 and to check the fire danger rating prior to any burning. For more information, visit bracebridge.ca/fire.

Bracebridge Library
While closed, Bracebridge Library card holders can enjoy free online resources 24/7. For access to eBooks, magazines, newspapers, online courses, reference centers, and more, visit bracebridgelibrary.ca/online-resources/

Bracebridge Transit
Bracebridge Transit and Bracebridge Mobility will not operate on Monday, July 1. Service will resume on Tuesday, July 2 at 7:30 am. For route and schedule information, visit bracebridgetransit.ca.

Firework Safety
Residents and visitors are reminded that fireworks are only permitted on designated days set out in the Towns Noise Control By-law. This includes Canada Day and the day immediately preceding and following the holiday.

Fireworks should only be used in clear areas away from other structures and dry vegetation. Fireworks are not to be used on streets or public property. Please follow these safety precautions when discharging fireworks:

• Place fireworks in a bucket of sand and incline fireworks to travel away from spectators. Postpone the use of fireworks if the wind is strong.
• Ensure spectators are at least 10 metres away from the fireworks firing line.
• Always have water close by, either access to a garden house or bucket of water.
• You must be 18 years of age to discharge fireworks and should always wear eye protection and gloves.
• Do not attempt to pick-up or re-ignite a firework that did not discharge for at least 30 minutes.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then placing them in your trash can.
• Do not hold a lit firework in your hand or throw or point them at other people.
• Do not give sparklers to children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause severe burns and eye injuries.

For additional firework safety tips, visit bracebridge.ca.

The post Celebrating Canada Day In Bracebridge appeared first on Muskoka411.

Below are a few highlights of the day’s activities.  For more information and to stay up-to-date on the schedule, visit Huntsville.ca.

Huntsville’s Community Celebration at Muskoka Heritage Place

To celebrate Canada Day, Muskoka Heritage Place (88 Brunel Rd.) will open its gates at 9:30 a.m., kicking off festivities with a performance by Neil Hutchinson – Acoustic Canadiana, speeches from dignitaries, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and other special guests. Muskoka Heritage Place admission is free to the museum and pioneer village with the donation of a non-perishable food item to The Salvation Army Food Bank of Huntsville.

Throughout the day, there will be activities for the whole family, including a scavenger hunt, cattail dolls, and period games along with free Canada Day cupcakes and strawberry scones, while supplies last.

July 1 also marks Steam Up Day – the launch of the steam train at Muskoka Heritage Place for the season. The train will run at 11:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Regular admission for the train applies.

Canada Day in Downtown Huntsville presented by Huntsville BIA

Huntsville is a great place to celebrate all Canada has to offer with a vibrant art and culture scene, great dining, and local shopping in a beautiful natural setting. Downtown Businesses are welcoming visitors and shoppers to check out their selections of Canadiana products & services. In addition, the BIA will have Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery founder, Gerry Lantaigne, hard at work on a new community mural — get in on the action and add your own brushstrokes. You can find Gerry and the Community Mural in Kent Park from 11a.m. – 3p.m. Please note this event will not run in inclement weather.

Port Sydney BBQ

The Port Sydney Parks and Recreation Barbeque will be held from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Port Sydney Beach. The Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums will be performing, and the Port Sydney Utterson Chamber of Commerce will be presenting their Citizen of the Year Award during the event.

Activities & Music in River Mill Park

2-5 p.m.          Roaming Juggler Kira Spins

3-5 p.m.          Lawn games like cornhole, connect four, mini putt, and giant Jenga along with music from local singer-songwriter Briar Summers

3-9 p.m.          Canvas Brewery Beverage Garden

7-9 p.m.          Join Tobin Spring at The Muskoka Music Crawl ‘Campfire Session’ presented by Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce

Hunters Bay Fireworks

End the day at 10 p.m. with fireworks over Hunters Bay.

Inclement Weather

Canada Day celebrations are rain or shine but may be delayed in the event of severe weather. Updates will be provided on the Town of Huntsville and Muskoka Heritage Place Facebook and Twitter accounts. Should the fireworks at Hunters Bay require rescheduling or cancellation due to severe weather or a fire ban, updates will be communicated on the Town of Huntsville Facebook and Twitter account.

Parking

The Town of Huntsville has an online interactive map outlining full day and three hour parking. Canada Summit Centre (20 Park Dr.) is a great option for additional parking for Muskoka Heritage Place or for those who would enjoy a short walk to Huntsville’s historic downtown.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

Ce projet est financé en partie par le gouvernement du Canada.

The post Celebrate Canada Day 2024 In Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

OTTAWA, ON, June 29, 2023 /CNW/ – Parks Canada administers a vast network of protected areas that is a gateway to nature, history, and 450 000 km² of stories from coast to coast to coast. National historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas represent the diversity of natural and cultural heritage in Canada and tell stories of who we are.

On July 1, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, invites Canadians and international visitors to connect with some of the most iconic destinations in Canada with free admission at all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas.

Canada Day is an opportunity to celebrate what unites us, the diverse facets of history and culture in Canada, and to take time to reflect and talk to one another about how we can work towards a more inclusive and open-minded society. With opportunities to learn more about Canada’s history or to soak in breathtaking views, Parks Canada administered places allowing visitors to experience the country’s rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage. This includes learning more about the historic and contemporary contributions of Indigenous peoples, their histories, and cultures, as well as the special relationships Indigenous peoples have with ancestral lands and waters.

Parks Canada is committed to providing visitors with high quality and meaningful experiences across the country. To make the most of their Parks Canada experience, visitors are asked to plan their trip in advance, by visiting the Parks Canada website and signing up for the e-newsletter, to be among the first to find out about new and noteworthy events and activities, special offers, trip planning ideas and much more – all delivered directly to their inboxes! Visitors can also download the Parks Canada app, listen to Parks Canada’s new podcast ReCollections, and follow Parks Canada on social media for destination inspiration and to help plan their perfect visit.

The post Spend Canada Day With Parks Canada appeared first on Muskoka411.

Ontario Water levels and flows near hydro stations and dams may look safe, but they can change into rapidly flowing waters with dangerous currents. Please obey warning signs, maintain distance from booms, buoys, and barriers marking the danger zone, and stay clear to stay safe.

For more information about water safety, please visit: www.opg.com/watersafety

• OPG operates 66 hydroelectric stations and 240 dams on 24 Ontario river systems.
• Despite continued warnings, some people disregard our signs and barriers, putting themselves and first responders at risk.
• OPG works with Ontario Provincial Police to enforce these warnings, including laying charges.

“While you are enjoying this Canada Day long weekend, please make sure you are practicing water safety,” said Paul Seguin, OPG SVP, Renewable Generation. “Always remember conditions can change within seconds. Water levels can rise, become turbulent and create a life-threatening situation.”

“Summer fun can turn tragic if you choose to ignore signs and barriers around hydroelectric dams. Trespassing in these areas could result in charges and fines, but worse, endangers you and the first responders who could be called upon to save you,” said OPP Media Relations & Community Services Coordinator, Sergeant Jason Folz. “As you enjoy this holiday weekend, please keep water safety top of mind.”

The post Stay Clear, Stay Safe This Canada Day Long Weekend appeared first on Muskoka411.