Elliot Lake's Winterfest 2025 is set to bring together fun, community spirit, and public awareness for a great cause this weekend. Kicking off on Friday, Winterfest will commence with brain-bending trivia questions ranging from local history to current events. Teams of up to eight players can register for $80, and the excitement starts at the Renaissance Active Living Centre, located at 2 Veteran’s Way, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and trivia questions hitting the floor at 7 p.m.
For younger attendees, the weekend starts with the ELIS youth dance at the Collins Hall, where kids can enjoy a fun-filled evening for just $5. The entry times are structured for different age groups: from 5 to 6 p.m. for Grades 1 to 3; 6:30 to 8 p.m. for Grades 4 to 6; and from 8 to 9:30 p.m. for Grades 7 and 8.
Saturday kicks off with a hearty breakfast at the Masonic Lodge from 8 to 10 a.m. for just $10 each. Following breakfast, participants are invited to partake in the weekly Park Run at Sheriff Creek. Whether running, walking, or snowshoeing, everyone is encouraged to enjoy the scenic winter vistas. Registration is available at ParkRun.ca, with parking instructions guiding participants to Milliken Mine Road past the Garden Centre. The forecast suggests it’ll be chilly, so dressing warmly is highly encouraged.
Later on Saturday, the Coureurs des Bois will host a guided hike starting at noon from Spine Beach. Enthusiasts can take advantage of free snowshoe rentals, making this winter experience accessible to all. Another highlight of this winter celebration is the annual winter beach party and bonfire at Spine Beach from noon to 3 p.m., featuring games, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, music, and refreshments including free hot dogs and hot chocolate. The bonfire, supported by community members Rejean Cyr and Tex in the Trees, aims to gather residents together to embrace the winter spirit.
Simultaneously, the Elliot Lake Women’s Group will initiate the Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser Walk on Saturday, starting from 1 College Place. Participants can check-in beginning at 4 p.m., followed by the walk at 5 p.m. Afterward, attendees can enjoy a light meal served at the Grace Christian Centre. This family-friendly fundraising walk supports local charities, particularly the Elliot Lake Women’s Group. Interested individuals can find details for donations and participation at CNOY.org.
On Sunday, Winterfest will culminate with Science North hosting Spooktacular science exhibits for families free of charge at Collins Hall from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Two special shows will entertain children and adults alike at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., showcasing regional creatures and introducing guests to Northern Ontario’s alien invaders with hands-on stations. A scavenger hunt will also entertain participants, starting with the first clue shared on the city’s social media at 11 a.m. Sunday—those who wish to join will have to solve riddles to unravel the locations of hidden treasures.
While the community gears up for the exciting events of Winterfest, there’s also reassuring news about the city’s drinking water system. A recent report from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment has confirmed there are no compliance risks within the 496 risk criteria assessed. Assistant Director of Public Works Bart Doyle presented the water system evaluation findings at the Public Services Committee meeting, stating, “The report provides evidence and assurance to mayor and council as officers of the corporation [that] council is exercising the prescribed standard of care with respect to the operations of the water treatment system.”
Doyle discussed the inspection conducted on December 12, 2024, pointing out the 100 percent compliance rating achieved. He elaborated on the report's findings, detailing 33 adverse reports primarily related to maintenance issues. He highlighted seasonal lake turnover as a factor contributing to some water quality complaints, which were documented but do not pose risk to residents.
During the committee meeting, questions from members ensued. Councillor Rick Bull expressed concern about recognizing the staff responsible for this success, remarking, “That’s an awesome job!” Doyle emphasized the collective effort of the team to maintain the high standards, “It’s like I say, it’s a complete team effort. We take thousands of samples a year, and the guys are very good at doing what they do.”
Both events—Winterfest and the water report—highlight Elliot Lake's commitment to fostering community engagement and ensuring public safety. The joyous laughter and camaraderie at Winterfest join together with the assurance of clean and safe drinking water, portraying Elliot Lake as both vibrant and resilient.