Ontario Relaxing Alcohol Restrictions in Provincial Parks

Province giving adults more freedom to responsibly enjoy alcohol throughout park grounds and beaches

Just in time for summer, the Ontario government is making it easier for people to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends by allowing adults to responsibly consume their favourite alcoholic beverages throughout provincial parks. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by building a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy, this change means alcohol will no longer be restricted to individual campsites, making it easier for people to relax and spend time with family and friends while supporting a stronger tourism industry that creates jobs and drives economic growth across the province.

“Ontario Parks are some of the province’s most sought-after destinations for day trips and overnight camping, offering people a chance to connect and spend quality time together,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “As families and friends gather for picnics or unwind after a long day on the trails, updated rules around where alcohol can be consumed are intended to improve the overall park experience and support local tourism, while continuing to prioritize safety. Ontario Parks are a key part of what makes our province a travel destination and we are supporting experiences that attract more visitors, strengthen communities and grow the economy.”

As parks open this spring and summer, adults aged 19 and older can now enjoy alcohol responsibly in most areas of provincial parks that are open and staffed for the 2026 season, such as picnic areas, beaches and other day use areas across the park. Park users will not receive tickets or fines for responsibly consuming alcohol in permitted areas outside of individual campsites. Existing rules still apply for unsafe or unlawful behaviour, including public intoxication, underage possession or consumption, and having open or improperly stored alcohol in a motor vehicle or boat.

Parks will post clear signage to identify areas that will remain alcohol-free, such as sites of cultural or historical significance, buildings where food and drink are already restricted and areas that may pose significant safety risks.

Park staff will continue to enforce rules to ensure Ontario Parks remain safe, family‑friendly and enjoyable for everyone, including:

• consuming alcohol only where it is allowed
• respecting other park users
• disposing of containers properly
• never driving or boating while impaired

This change builds on the government’s broader efforts to modernize alcohol rules and support local tourism, including expanded “bring‑your‑own” permits for outdoor public events that give communities more flexibility to host festivals and cultural gatherings that support local economies. It is part of the government’s broader plan to protect Ontario by boosting the tourism sector, promoting Ontario as a global travel destination and helping create jobs across the province.

Quick Facts

• Ontario Parks sees more than 13 million visits each year, connecting millions of people with nature across Ontario.
• Overall, these visits contributed an estimated $1.2 billion to Ontario’s tourism industry in 2025.
• Alcohol sales will continue at select Ontario Parks stores, including Bonnechere, Presqu’ile, Pinery and Halfway Lake provincial parks. Sales are also expanding to Fitzroy, Earl Rowe, Emily and Murphys Point provincial parks for the 2026 operating season.
• Ontario’s tourism sector supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the provincial economy each year.

The post Ontario Relaxing Alcohol Restrictions in Provincial Parks appeared first on In Play! magazine.

Fish for Free in Ontario this Family Day Weekend

This Family Day weekend, people across Ontario can fish for free from February 14 to 16 without purchasing a licence or Outdoors Card.

“Family Day weekend is a perfect time for families to get outdoors and enjoy ice fishing here in Ontario,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Whether you’re a seasoned angler or it’s your first time ice fishing, take advantage of this opportunity to get out and make lasting memories with friends and family.”

Before heading out to ice fish, keep safety the top priority. Check conditions with local ice hut operators or anglers and remember that clear blue ice is strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is weaker. Let someone know where you will be fishing and wear appropriate gear for warmth and safety.

Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits continue to be in effect as do restrictions in sanctuaries and other fishing regulations.

Recreational fishing is a vital part of Ontario’s economy, contributing significantly to local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing periods, such as Family Day weekend, encourage more people to discover the joy of fishing and help protect Ontario’s resource-based industry by promoting the many economic, social and environmental benefits that recreational anglers bring to the province.

Quick Facts

• This weekend is the first of four times when Canadian residents can fish for free in Ontario throughout the year. The other three times are: Mother’s Day weekend (May 9 to 10), Father’s Day weekend (June 20 to 21) and Family Fishing week (June 27 to July 5).
• 1.3 million licensed anglers spend $2.4 billion per year on recreational fishing in Ontario.
• Canadian residents participating in free fishing periods must carry identification issued by the provincial or federal government, showing their name and date of birth.
• Outside of free fishing periods, most people between the ages of 18 and 64 must have an Outdoors Card and a licence to fish. All veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province, whenever and wherever fishing is allowed.
• Ontario fishing licences can be purchased online at HuntAndFishOntario.com. If buying online, always look for the Ontario logo. Licences can also be purchased in person at participating ServiceOntario or authorized licence issuer locations.

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Province Building and Upgrading More Than 1,000 Ontario Parks Campsites

Largest expansion of Ontario Parks in 50 years will protect and expand province’s tourism sector

The Ontario government says it is investing nearly $60 million to create more camping opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts at some of the province’s most popular provincial parks, adding up to 300 new campsites and upgrading 800 campsites with electrical service. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this historic investment will make it easier for more people to camp at world-class Ontario Parks destinations while boosting domestic and international tourism that supports local businesses and jobs.

“This upgrade marks a major milestone for Ontario Parks — the most significant expansion of camping opportunities in 50 years. More people than ever before are looking to vacation in Ontario and across Canada to support their local communities. With hundreds of new and upgraded campsites, we’re giving more people the opportunity to support local businesses and jobs while camping at Ontario Parks and making memories to last a lifetime.” – Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

Through this investment, Ontario Parks will create 300 new campsites and upgrade approximately 800 existing sites with electrical service over the next three years. The addition of new campsites will help meet rising demand for high-quality outdoor experiences in some of Ontario’s most scenic and sought-after destinations. As part of this expansion, new campsites will be added at Driftwood, MacGregor Point, Bon Echo and Killarney provincial parks, with more parks to follow.

At the same time, existing campsites at Sandbanks, Arrowhead and Bon Echo provincial parks will be upgraded with electrical service, with additional parks receiving electrified campsites in the future. Sandbanks — one of Ontario’s most popular parks with approximately 750,000 visitors each year — will see up to 73 campsites electrified by summer 2026, enhancing comfort and improving accessibility for a wider range of visitors.

Ontario Parks’ phased expansion is prioritizing parks based on project readiness, cost-effectiveness and the ability to deliver high value to park users. A full list of additional parks receiving new or upgraded campsites will be released at a later date. Additional projects will be considered as part of the ministry’s long-term strategy to expand access to Ontario Parks.

Quick Facts

• Demand for camping opportunities at Ontario Parks has surged over the past decade, with many parks reaching capacity during peak seasons.
• As part of the 2024 Ontario Budget: Building a Better Ontario, the government committed $59 million over three years to expand camping opportunities and bring electricity to more campsites.
• This investment represents the largest addition of new campsites at Ontario Parks in 50 years.
• Established in 1970, Sandbanks Provincial Park is one of the province’s most popular natural attractions. It is home to the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation.
• Procurement for electrical upgrades at Sandbanks began this summer, with construction scheduled to start later this month. Some of the upgraded sites are expected to be available for booking in summer 2026.
• Sandbanks Provincial Park offers three expansive sandy beaches, over 12 km of hiking trails and discovery programming to an average of 750,000 visits annually.
• Since 2018, the province has invested $76.1 million to make important infrastructure improvements at Ontario Parks.
• With 12.4 million visits in 2024, Ontario Parks is the largest provider of outdoor recreational opportunities in the province.
• Park visitors play a key role in Ontario’s tourism economy, generating spin-off benefits for nearby communities through local dining, shopping and attractions.

The post Ontario Building and Upgrading More Than 1K Parks Campsites appeared first on In Play! magazine.

City of Windsor Invites You to Discover Peche Island

Discover the captivating beauty of Peche Island this summer! The City of Windsor is offering both guided and self-guided tours to this hidden gem.

Discover Peche Island Guided Tours

The Discover Peche Island Tour is a great way to learn about the history of the island. This tour experience is approximately two hours in length and includes a one-hour guided tour around the island learning about its cultural history and significance, and one hour spent on the island. There, guests can enjoy a leisurely 2-kilometre (1.24-mile) stroll along the island’s trail.

The Discover Peche Island Tours run every Friday and Saturday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. until October. Ticket price is $30 per person and the tours depart from Lakeview Park Marina.

Peche Island Self-guided Tours

For those who prefer to move at their own pace, the Peche Island Self-guided Tours are an amazing option. Catch a ride to the island and explore trails, canals and ruins across 86 acres of land.

The Peche Island Self-guided Tours depart Lakeview Park Marina every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. with the final return trip to the marina at 2 p.m. (weather permitting). Admission is $10.75 per seat.

You can book either tour by contacting CRBC@CityWindsor.ca by email or by calling 519-255-1161.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Ensure you come prepared with your photo identification (ID).
• Bring protection against bugs and the sun.
• Bring water bottles to stay hydrated.
• Bring a compact personal bag, such as a purse or backpack.
• Remember to bring your binoculars to enhance your island exploration.
• Please ensure that you carry out whatever you bring in.

Peche Island was purchased by Hiram Walker in 1883. He used the island as a summer home and his buildings included a stable, large home, greenhouse, and icehouse. The property was sold in 1907. The City of Windsor acquired the land from the province of Ontario in 1999 and has invested significantly over the years to protect and reinforce the area while increasing accessibility and providing opportunities for community engagement and eco-tourism.

Add a visit to Windsor’s Peche Island to your list of seasonal must-dos and explore this hidden gem!

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MLP and Downtown Windsor BIA Tag Team to Bring Big Names in Pro Wrestling to Downtown Windsor!

Wrestling fans, get ready – Downtown Windsor is about to transform into the ultimate battleground for one of the most electrifying events of the summer. On Saturday, July 26, the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) and MAPLE LEAF PRO Wrestling (MLP) join forces to present Downtown Showdown, a FREE, open-air professional wrestling extravaganza taking place on the 300 block of Ouellette Avenue, close to the intersection of University Avenue.

“There have been many infamous ‘street fights’ in wrestling history, but this is something entirely different. We’re literally shutting down the street, building a ring in the middle of the road, and bringing world-class wrestling action to the heart of my hometown.” – Scott D’Amore, President of MAPLE LEAF PRO and a proud Windsor native.

With a 6:00 PM bell time, fans are encouraged to arrive early for prime viewing spots. This family-friendly event promises jaw-dropping athleticism, dramatic storylines, and the raw energy of live pro wrestling under the open sky.

STACKED CARD. BIG NAMES. HOMETOWN HEROES.

Headlining the action are internationally renowned superstars The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows), known for dominating tag team divisions across WWE, NJPW, and Impact Wrestling. Joining them are a powerhouse lineup that includes:

• Gisele Shaw – Reigning MLP Canadian Women’s Champion
• Rohan Raja – Current PWA Grail Champion
• Ace Austin, Bhupinder Gujjar, and Sheldon Jean – Former stars of TNA Wrestling
• Windsor’s own: El Reverso, Psycho Mike, Brent Banks, Laynie Luck, and Beaa Moss

“The energy from Rumble on the Roof this past weekend was electric — you could feel the city come alive from the top of the Pelissier parking garage to the streets of downtown Windsor,” said Chris MacLeod, Chair of the DWBIA. “We’re building on that momentum and turning up the volume for the Downtown Showdown. It’s not just another wrestling event — it’s another step in making Downtown Windsor the place to be. The ring is set, the stars are coming, and the community is ready. Let’s make some noise.”

Ward 3 Councillor Renaldo Agostino added, “You can count on massive crowds, electric energy, and an unforgettable night right in the heart of our city. Partnering with major players like Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling is a championship move for Downtown Windsor. MLP brings world-class talent and excitement – and I can’t wait to see kids, families, and fans of all ages soaking it all in. The Champs are coming, and Downtown’s ready to rumble!”

Whether you’re a lifelong wrestling fan or just looking for something unique to do on a Saturday night, Downtown Showdown promises high-flying, hard-hitting entertainment.

MAPLE LEAF PRO Wrestling revives the iconic Maple Leaf Wrestling brand—once a cornerstone of the sport across North America. Under the leadership of Scott D’Amore, MLP blends the legacy of legends like Lou Thesz and Ric Flair with today’s top talent from WWE, AEW, NJPW, and beyond. With its roots in Ontario, MLP is reshaping the future of pro wrestling while paying homage to its storied past.

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