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Hosting the holidays in Orillia
By now, your house is festively decorated right down to the draped garland and mistle toe dangling from doorways. Scents of cinnamon, pine and gingerbread waft through the air, and there’s an inviting radiance coming from the fireplace.
You’ve thought of everything, right down to the place settings for dinner on the big day. But have you thought of how you’re going to entertain and feed the company that’s about to descend on your home?
Why not stay warm on these cooler days, while taking in some interesting sights, by bringing family and friends to one of many art galleries and museums throughout the Sunshine City, including the OPP Museum.
Or, tucker the kids out with a day trip to Orillia’s popular recreation centre where a Fun Pass will gain you access to the aquatic centre, gym, fitness centre and more.
If it’s cold and snowy enough, enjoy the famed toboggan hill at Couchiching Golf Club (North Street East), numerous outdoor skating rinks, and other open spaces and recreational trails throughout the area – many that stretch beyond the city’s limits.
What does any group want after a day adventuring in the cold? Delicious food and lots of it! Pick up ready-made, mouth-watering meals at eateries in the city’s downtown. You’ll find a number of bistros and shops offering snacks, appetizer fare and take-away meals that easily go in the oven or microwave when hunger strikes.
Dining out in downtown Orillia is always an epicurean pleasure, but especially this time of year when restauranteurs ramp up the cosy factor. From vegan cuisine to pub food, Italian and Mediterranean fare, as well as cafes offering an abundance of soothing drinks and homemade comfort food, foodies of all stripes will be impressed.
Need a last-minute gift or two? Over 150 unique shops in the city’s core offer distinctive items that will ensure a smile on Christmas morning. From snowboards to gaming, jewellery to eclectic home accents, you’ll find something for everyone on your shopping list.
Add a little fun to your downtown experience by taking part in Goosechase to win prizes. Download the free Goosechase app and compete in a team or as an individual. The game code is LK57EP. View 50 missions that can be completed anytime until Dec. 31, 2022. Each mission is worth different points and whoever has the most points by Dec. 31 will win a grand prize. There are also six weekly prizes for completing certain tasks within the week.
Visit the Goosechase website for more information on this engaging game that’s fun for all ages.
There is simply no better place to spend the holidays than in Orillia and when it comes to hosting family and friends you’ll find what you need in the Sunshine City.
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