Four events you need to check out in South Simcoe this weekend

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season in South Simcoe.

This weekend, there's a Santa Claus parade, holiday-themed markets and other activities lined up that may make you feel like that magical time of the year is finally upon us. At BradfordToday and InnisfilToday, we’ve got your go-to list of events. Here's some of what's planned in South Simcoe on Saturday and Sunday:

Paul Dossey Memorial Tournament skates into Bradford

South Simcoe Minor Hockey Association's annual tournament takes to the ice starting today and running throughout the weekend under a new name, the Paul Dossey Memorial Tournament, in honour of the late Paul Dossey. For more than 15 years, the tournament formerly known as the Blue and Gold Classic has seen minor teams from across Ontario compete for the chance to be known as the best. Teams from U10 to U18, in A, AA and BB categories, are set to face off at three facilities: BWG Leisure Centre, the Bob Fallis Sports Centre and the Nottawasaga Inn Resort's Centre Ice Sportsplex. There is no fee for spectators and a full schedule can be found online at sites.google.com/view/southsimcoe23-11-17/schedules-results.

Holiday market returning for third year

The third annual Holiday Market — an event to celebrate local artists and community spirit, in honour of the late Marlene Wren — will take place Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lakeside Dance Studio in Innisfil. Lakeside Dance is at 2723 Ireton St. Admission to the market is free. 

Take a dip at the BWG Leisure Centre

All-ages leisure swimming is planned at the leisure centre Nov. 18 and 19 at 1:30 p.m. each day. Swim laps, relax or take a ride on the waterslide. Admission is free for children under three years old, $4 for kids four to 12, $4.50 for 13- to 24-year-olds, $5.25 for adults and $4.50 for seniors (ages 60-plus). Households of up to five people can enter for $12. For more, including the town’s admission policy, visit calendar.townofbwg.com.

Santa Claus arrives Saturday night

The annual Bradford West Gwillimbury Santa Claus parade will usher in the Jolly Old Elf as it rolls through the town core Nov. 18 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Billed as the municipality’s “greatest holiday tradition,” this event is expected to draw thousands of spectators. Representatives from 50 local businesses, service groups and government organizations will bring to life this show under the stars with intricately decorated floats and vehicles. The nearly two-kilometre route starts at Bradford District High School on Professor Day Drive, turns east on Holland and goes south on Simcoe Road, ending at the Bradford and District Memorial Community Centre. For more details on the event, visit townofbwg.com or see our preview story. 

If you've got an upcoming event that could be featured through our publication, send me a tip at [email protected].