Winter Holidays

From festive recreation activities and family events to important seasonal service updates, everything you need for a safe and enjoyable winter break is in one place. Explore holiday programs, check schedules, and find information on closures, waste collection changes, and Christmas tree recycling.

What's happening over the holidays in Norfolk

Holiday Skate Schedule

Special holiday skates and sponsored skates are happening across Norfolk County this winter break. Bring the whole family and enjoy time on the ice together—it’s a great way to stay active and celebrate the season. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

View and register for skates using ENCORE.

For more information about skating in Norfolk, visit norfolkcounty.ca/Skating.

Holiday Skate Schedules

December 20 to 27, 2025 (PDF)

December 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026 (PDF)

Holiday Swims

Make a splash this holiday season at the Annaleise Carr Aquatic Centre! Our special holiday swims are the perfect way for families to stay active and have fun together. Whether you’re looking to relax in the water or burn off some energy, everyone is welcome to join in.

View and register for swims using ENCORE.

For more information about swimming in Norfolk, visit norfolkcounty.ca/Swimming

Holiday Swim Schedules

December 22 to 28, 2025 (PDF)

December 29, 2025 to January 2, 2026 (PDF)

Leadership Programs

SOS 4 Kids! Babysitter Training Course

For youth aged 12 or turning 12 within six months of the course end date. Attendance on both days is mandatory, and a minimum grade of 75% on the final exam is required to receive certification. Topics include caring for children from three months to school age, emergency prevention and response, and basic first aid. Cost: $83 per session.

Simcoe Recreation Centre

• Monday, December 29 and Tuesday, December 30
• 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

SOS 4 Kids! Home Alone Safety Program

This program helps children ages 9–12 build independence by covering street smarts, bike safety, accident prevention, and basic first aid. Cost: $49 per session.

Simcoe Recreation Centre

• Monday, December 29
• 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

SOS 4 Kids! My Safe Life: Personal Safety for Kids Program

For children ages 7–10, this program teaches life skills, bullying prevention, self-defense, and basic first aid to promote safe, respectful decision-making both online and offline. Cost: $49 per session.

Simcoe Recreation Centre

• Tuesday, December 30
• 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Community Events

New Year’s Eve Bash

Celebrate the New Year with family fun—enjoy skating, crafts, games, light refreshments, and a festive balloon drop! Pre-registration is required. Cost: $5.25 per person.

Talbot Gardens Arena

• Wednesday, December 31
• 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Captain’s Polar Bear Levee

Celebrate the New Year with us! Enjoy music and great company. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., and the levee begins after the Polar Bear Dip. Please bring non-perishable food items for the food bank. Admission by donation.

Port Dover Harbour Museum

Thursday, January 1
1:00 p.m.

Camp

Holly Jolly Camp

Campers can dive into swimming, explore their artistic side with crafts, enjoy exciting games, and bake a delicious treat. Cost: $49 per day.

Simcoe Recreation Centre

• Monday, December 22
• Tuesday, December 23
• 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

What's open and closed in Norfolk over the holidays

Holiday Hours

County Administration Buildings

All administration buildings are closed from 4:30 p.m. December 24, 2025, to 8:30 a.m. January 2, 2026.

Emergency, Essential and Critical Services

Fire and Paramedic Services continue to operate as usual.

Provincial Offences Court

Closed during this period.
Reopening January 2, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

Social Services and Housing

Simcoe and Dunnville offices are closed during this period.
Reopening January 2, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.
Crisis support: Victim Services Support Line 1-800-264-6671.

Heritage and Culture

All museums and Norfolk County Archives are closed from December 24 to January 3.
Port Dover Harbour Museum’s Captain’s Polar Bear Levee: January 1, 2026, at 1 p.m. Admission by donation.

Norfolk County Public Library

Close at 2:00 p.m. December 24 and 31
Closed December 25, December 26, and January 1
Saturday, December 27 – Regular hours (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Monday, December 29 – Simcoe Branch open regular hours (10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.)
Regular hours for all branches resume January 2
Digital resources available 24/7 at ncpl.ca.