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  • What to get up to this February in The County β„πŸ·
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What to get up to this February in The County β„πŸ·

After a long January, restrictions are gradually easing and The County is reopening, ready for plenty of winter fun. If you have a visit planned this month, if you live in the area and are looking for a fun weekend activity, or if you just want to experience the joys of February in The County second hand, read on.

This information is accurate as of February 1st, 2022. As always, we recommend checking in directly with operators as this information is subject to change. Visit our COVID-19 pageΒ for more information.

Reminder: as of January 4th 2022, enhanced vaccine passports with a scannable QR code are required for indoor dining and locations such as recreational facilities. Further to that, some businesses are going above and beyond to keep the community safe, so we ask that individual requirements are respected at all times.Β 

 

A Vintner Winter

The vines may be resting under a comfortable blanket of snow and earth, but many wineries will be serving up pours in their tasting rooms this February. Be sure to download the PEC Wine Explorer App before you visit to plan your trip and explore Prince Edward County Wineries (and Cideries!) by region, style and more. As always, check in with wineries before visiting via the app or Instagram to confirm operations and open hours, and be sure to make a reservation where necessary. You can also start your planning right here on VisitPEC.ca by checking out the wine section of our website for inspiration.

Enjoying a wintery red at Closson Chase Vineyards. Photo by Anne McIsaac

Hit the Trail

If you’re looking to get outside while you’re here, there are plenty of ways you can do so. Fancy giving snowshoeing a try? Head to Sugarbush Vineyards where you can rent snowshoes for $20, which includes a wine tasting and hot chocolate (weekends only). Or you can participate in a guided 3km snowshoeing walk at Three Dog Winery on weekends throughout February, which includes snowshoes and a glass of wine. Also keep an eye out for foodie pop-ups at Three Dog to complete your experience.

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A post shared by Three Dog Winery (@threedogwinery)

Snowshoeing not your thing? There are plenty of other ways to get outdoors. Why not bring your cross country skis and plan a trip down the Millennium Trail? Or how about pack your best snow boots and go for a winter hike at Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area or at the Sandbanks Dunes Trail (the parking lot at Dunes is now maintained in the winter). If you plan to head out in winter, though, be sure to plan your route ahead of time, make sure your phone is charged, dress warmly and ensure you head out with plenty of daylight left – it’s easy to get turned around on trails, especially after fresh snowfall.

 

Related: What to do in Winter in Prince Edward County

 

Plan an Escape

Escape Camp Picton is reopening for the 2022 season with a special Family Day Weekend event! Join them for an escape between February 11 and 14 and enjoy an extra special post-game celebration with a hot chocolate buffet and a make-your-own puzzle kit to take home with you.

Want to escape Camp Picton from the comfort of home? They also have a handcrafted at-home puzzle box available for purchase – perfect for cozy snow day weekends or evenings spent back at your accommodations.

 

Hit the Ice

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A post shared by Parsons Brewing Company (@parsonsbrewing)

If you haven’t heard, Parsons Brewing Company‘s covered ice rink is open daily for the season and it’s more epic than ever! Whether you want to play some shinny or you just want to skate, this family-friendly activity makes for a perfect winter outing, especially when paired with their rink-side snacks – we’re talking emanadas, grilled cheese and roast tomato soup, served alongside their wide selection of beers and coffee (with Bailey’s!) if you’re feeling the chill. They even have hot chocolate and s’mores kits for the kids (and big kids) who want to have some fun by the fire pit after a good skate. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for daily updates on rink conditions as well as for rink rules.

Speaking of ice, if you are visiting a beach during winter be sure to stay off the shore ice as this is known to be dangerous, even in the coldest weather. Also, unless you are with a guide or familiar with ice conditions in the area, any lake ice should be considered unsafe. Stick to shore and stay safe.Β 

If skating’s not your thing but you’re still chasing classic “apres” vibes and craft beer, there’s plenty of options for you! Gillingham Brewing has a fabulous winter patio setup (complete with Oysters!), Prince Eddy’s will be serving up pours both in and outdoors, Matron Fine Beer has a sweet sheltered back patio, and Slake comes complete with many fire pits to share the warmth alongside their gorgeous views – but don’t worry, their indoor seating is also open if you want the views without the windchill.

 

Go Back in Time

It’s Flashback February at The County Museums, which means we have plenty opportunities to engage with the history and heritage of Prince Edward County through talks, performances and more. The 2022 event (February 19-27) will include a combination of in-person and virtual offerings including a historic barn tour at Karlo Estates Winery (multiple in-person dates), a Photos and Follies exhibit at North Marysburgh Town Hall,Β  an exhibit on the “social media” of early Prince Edward County, a virtual historic cooking presentation, and more. Check out the Flashback February website for more details.

Related: 10 Places to Get a Taste of County History

February Feasts

Indoor dining is back, and your favourite County restaurants are ready to welcome you (at limited capacity for now). Not only are the all-season restaurants open again, but so are the restaurants that typically close in January like La Condesa, Flame + Smith and The Marans Dinebar. (note: some restaurants operate seasonally and will open again in the spring, so we still recommend confirming operations before setting your heart on a particular spot!) If you’re planning a foodie trip be sure to make a reservation where possible or plan in advance to potentially wait a for a table (though wait times in February are typically much less than in summer, reduced capacity make affect wait times). Looking for a unique Friday night dining experience? Book a Fondue Friday at The Eddie. Wanting to experience the newest of the new? be sure to book a spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner at The Royal Hotel, the reimagined historical gem of Picton Main Street.

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A post shared by The Royal Hotel (@theroyalhotelpicton)

Here for Valentine’s Day? Many spots are offering special pre-fixe menus for your romantic celebrations. So be sure to check out the restaurants on your wish list on social media to see what feasts they have dreamed up for the day of love.

 

Winter with Lakeside

If you’re looking for a family and pet-friendly winter outing, why not head to The Lakeside Motel in Wellington? They have a few epic weekends planned on their property. Swing by to enjoy live music, their new food truck and their cozy heated enclosure alongside their epic lake views. Check out our event listings for more information.

 

Visit a Gallery

February is a great time to visit a Prince Edward County art gallery. Most galleries and studios are open weekends or by appointment, so we highly recommend discovering local artists through the County Arts Council and the Arts Trail before you visit. Once you’ve built your wish list, be sure to check in directly to confirm hours of operation or book an appointment before visiting.

If you want to take your appreciation of art outdoors, be sure to check out the sculpture garden at Oeno Gallery (yes, it’s open in winter, and yes it is magical – see the video from last year below!) or take a stroll just off Picton Main Street to Benson Park to enjoy fun installations by The Department of Illumination.

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A post shared by Oeno Gallery (@oenogallery)

Take in a Concert

We’re excited for February to bring a return to in-person performance. If you’re a fan of Jazz, Big Lake Concerts has just the think for you. Be sure to get tickets to one of two seatings of SOA and Friends at The CAPE on February 24th. SOA covers a wide stylistic terrain from jazz, consistently enveloped by the warm and soulful voice of Chrystelle Maechler. Thompson Egbo-Egbo joins her on the piano and together they will deliver a rich evening of musical sounds and stories. Rooted in jazz, SOA features a mix of originals and fresh interpretations of outside material, in French, English, and sometimes German. β€œSOA” means β€œprecious” in the language of Madagascar.

Soa & Friends

Plan Your 2022 Visit

If you don’t have a February visit planned but are feeling a little bit envious after reading about all of these amazing happenings in The County this month, let the inspiration strike! Now is the perfect time to start planning your 2022 visit. Take advantage of the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit and book somewhere to stay, discover more things to do, taste and experience and start building the a picture perfect PEC itinerary. Looking for more inspiration? Be sure to check out our blog.

 

 

See something missing or need something updated? Send us an email atΒ tourism@pecounty.on.ca.

 

 

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Visit The County is the DMMO for #PrinceEdwardCounty, a rural community bursting with creative talent & natural stunners.

Prince Edward County β„οΈπŸ·πŸ½οΈπŸ
❄️ A Winter Bucket List for PEC ❄️⁠ ⁠ ❄️ A Winter Bucket List for PEC ❄️⁠
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We're going to let you in on one of our best-kept secrets: winter in Prince Edward County. Sure, it's colder and quieter, but for us those are just added benefits that make for some unforgettable experiences. For the uninitiated that may need some convincing, so head to our blog to discover our complete bucket list for an incredible winter experience in The County.⁠
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Link in bio πŸ‘†οΈβ 
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Note: this bucket list might not be accomplished in a single weekend getaway, but maybe that calls for making a PEC winter getaway a tradition. Or better yet, book a longer stay to enjoy a whole week of winter fun in The County. Discover unique and luxurious accommodations on our website at visitthecounty.com/stay⁠
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πŸ₯Ύ Hit the Trails πŸ₯Ύβ  ⁠ There's nothing li πŸ₯Ύ Hit the Trails πŸ₯Ύβ 
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There's nothing like a walk in the forest after a snowfall. Luckily, Prince Edward County has lots of options to get you breathing that winter air between brunch, wine tasting, and your next indulgent County meal. ⁠
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πŸ¦‰ Macaulay Mountain Conservation area is a great stop for a walk after spending the morning in Picton. With access from Macaulay Heritage Park, this @quinteconservation area has a large trail network that allows for you to customize your routes. Be sure to download a map from the Quinte Conservation website  and wear appropriate footwear as the path can be wet in places in mild weather, though with a fresh cover of snow it's a dream! If you're looking for an easier stroll or if you just want to take a look at one of The County's loveliest community arts projects, be sure to check out @birdhouse_citypec.⁠
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🌲 Sandbanks Provincial Parks really shows off in winter with six trails to choose from of varying lengths and difficulty. From snow on the beach on Dunes Trail to quiet, riverside moments on Cedar Sands, you're bound to stumble upon countless magical "are we in Narnia?" moments for your memory bank. Head to the Ontario Parks website to learn more about accessing @sandbankspp in Winter, and don't forget these crucial safety tips: ⁠
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1. Stay off the lake. Shore ice can be very precarious and it's not worth the risk. ⁠
2. Start your walk with plenty of time before dark to help ensure you get back to your car safely. ⁠
3. Dress appropriately. Winter boots. Layers. Gloves and hats. This is no place for sneakers! ⁠
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❄️ The Millennium Trail runs the length of The County and is just as much a major artery through the area in winter as it is in the warmer months. Cross country skiing, fat biking, walking, and snowmobiling are just a few ways you can enjoy this public linear park. ⁠
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Image Description: Yellow and green arrows mark a trail in Sandbanks Provincial Park during winter. The path ahead is covered in snow and lined with snow-frosted pine trees. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC #WinterinPEC
🍳 Brunch Season 🍳⁠ ⁠ When you have a day 🍳 Brunch Season 🍳⁠
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When you have a day of wintery outdoor adventures planned, there's no better way to start your day than with hearty brunch. Luckily, winter in Prince Edward County is brunch season, with many spots offering seasonal brunch menus in addition to our already popular brunch offerings. Here are some delicious brunch experiences you will want to have this winter: ⁠
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πŸ₯“ @creekside_cafe_pec won our hearts with their stunning brunch menu when they opened last summer, and the good news is that they're still at it this winter, and with new menu items to boot. Brunch starts up again this Saturday, so don't miss it! ⁠
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πŸ›οΈ Come for the weekend and stay for the brunch starting January 15 at @jacksonsfallscountryinn. Not staying at the inn? That's okay - you're invited too! Just be sure to make a reservation in advance. ⁠
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🍾 Head to @karloestates for their bubble brunch every Sunday - all-you-can-eat vegan pancakes, handcrafted sparkling wine, and a cozy barn setting - what more could you want?⁠
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🍺 Run to @parsonsbrewing to experience their seasonal brunch menu before enjoying a wintery pint by the fire and a skate on their outdoor rink (weather permitting). ⁠
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🍳 Check out the new breakfast menu at @thecountycanteen featuring deliciousness such as an epic breakfast burrito and an indulgent breakfast poutine. ⁠
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πŸ₯ž They're available all year round, but we'd be remiss not to mention the decadent brunches at @drakedevonshire, @theroyalhotelpicton, and @pictonharbourinn. ⁠
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πŸ“… Visiting in February? Don't miss brunch @stellaseatery and @bermudapec to help lift you out of your deep winter blues. ⁠
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Image description: Patrons enjoying brunch at Creekside Cafe. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC
✨ 2023 ✨⁠ ⁠ Gliding into the new year like ✨ 2023 ✨⁠
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Gliding into the new year like... ⁠
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With the holidays behind us we're looking forward to a winter filled with outdoor adventures, delicious culinary experiences, and cozy moments inside stunning accommodations. ⁠
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Have you booked your winter getaway to Prince Edward County yet? Head to visitthecounty.com today to start planning. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC
⁠❄ PEC Winter Bucket List ❄⁠ ⁠ #3 Gettin ⁠❄ PEC Winter Bucket List ❄⁠
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#3 Getting Cozy on an Outdoor Patio⁠
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Sure, it's great snuggling up indoors next to a fire, but there's something equally as great about embracing the chill, bundling up and enjoying some locally-crafted beverages by the fire pit. Whether @gillinghambrewing or many of Prince Edward County's wineries, breweries and cideries, this is an essential part of the winter experience in The County. Bonus: it's family and pup-friendly, with space for kids to enjoy the snow and the ability for pups to join you on your County outings. ⁠
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Have you booked your winter getaway to PEC yet? Start your planning at visitthecounty.com today!⁠
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Image description: A couple smiles as they cheers with another couple @gillinghambrewing on their patio in wintertime. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC #WinterinPEC #WinterTravel
🌟 All is Bright 🌟⁠ ⁠ Happy Holidays from 🌟 All is Bright 🌟⁠
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Happy Holidays from Prince Edward County! We hope you and yours are staying safe and enjoying a beautiful time together while sipping on PEC wine, noshing on locally-produced goods, and opening County-made gifts. ⁠
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As for us? We're reflecting on another year of beautiful memories made in The County, and looking forward making more in 2023. We hope you'll join us! ⁠
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What PEC adventures do you have planned for next year? Let us know in the comments! ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #VisitPEC
⭐ Holiday Hours ⭐⁠ ⁠ Spending the holidays ⭐ Holiday Hours ⭐⁠
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Spending the holidays in PEC? Wondering what's open and closed over the holiday period? Be sure to check out our Instagram story highlight for an ever-growing round-up of 2022 holiday hours from Prince Edward County shops, wineries, breweries, restaurants, and more. ⁠
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Don't see a business mentioned in our highlight? That's great! It's very likely they are open and running as normal. But it's always best to reach out before making the trip to be sure - follow them here on Instagram, check out their hours on their website, or give them a quick call to confirm. ⁠
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🌨️ Please note these hours are subject to change, especially with the expected inclement weather, so be sure to stay tuned in if you're thinking of going out, and adjust plans if necessary. Stay safe out there! ⁠
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Image by OneLook for Visit The County⁠
Image description: An arial shot of a frozen Picton Harbour in Prince Edward County under a blanket of fresh snow with blue sky on the horizon. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC
❄ PEC Winter Bucket List ❄⁠ ⁠ #2 Skating a ❄ PEC Winter Bucket List ❄⁠
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#2 Skating at Parsons⁠
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One of the great things about Prince Edward County in wintertime is that there is plenty of fun to be had for the whole family, and one of these hubs for winter family fun is @parsonsbrewing, where kiddos and kiddos at heart can take to the covered rink, sip hot chocolate and make s'mores by the fire. Stick around for their delicious food menu (or come early for Sunday brunch!) and of course their extensive list of handcrafted beers. ⁠
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To have this winter experience, be sure to follow @parsonsbrewing for updates about the opening of their winter rink. This experience is of course subject to the weather! We're 🀞 for colder temps so we can enjoy the rink for as long as possible! ⁠
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Have you booked your winter getaway to PEC yet? Start your planning at visitthecounty.com today!⁠
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Image description: A boy skates on the rink on a chilly January day at Parsons, his parents looking on. ⁠
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#PrinceEdwardCounty #PEC #CountyUp #DiscoverON #VisitTheCounty #SouthEasternOntario #TheCounty #BayOfQuinte #DiscoverOntario #Picton #SandbanksPP #VisitPEC #WinterinPEC #WinterTravel
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