The New Year has begun, we're still in a pandemic and some days there may not seem like enough coffee in the world to get through the day. Grab your warm clothes and a fresh perspective, as we blast away those winter blues!
Get some fresh air with your family
Strap on your winter boots, snowshoes, or cross-country skis and hit the trails. Pick up your toboggan and head to a local hill, like Watson Park in Ridgetown, Ferguson Park in Thamesville or Kingston Park in Chatham. Build a snowman, enjoy a frozen pond to skate on (be sure it's safe and you aren't trespassing!) or take a walk through the various communities in Chatham-Kent and rediscover CK. Before you head out, grab a hot beverage from the many cafés and bakeries that dot our region.
Spend some time discovering outdoor activities
When the ice is safe, head out to Mitchell's Bay, Rondeau Bay or the Thames River for some ice fishing. Grab your binoculars or camera and see what winter birds you can find as you hike through Rondeau Provincial Park or check out Wheatley Provincial Park.
Skip the leftovers and order in
Now is a great time to pick up takeout and just stay warm inside, while supporting our local businesses. Better yet, warm up after a day out in the cold and pick up hot chocolate and your favourite treats available on the Bakery Trail. Tired of leftovers or trying to figure out what you want to cook? Choose from the many varieties of take-out options available across Chatham-Kent from restaurants that offer take-out service.
Enjoy locally crafted brews
We know you are longing to sit on a patio with friends and good craft beer. For now, bring it home and check out the options on our Kegs and Corks trail. A great selection awaits at Bayside Brewing Co. in Erieau, Red Barn Brewing Co. in Blenheim, at Sons of Kent Brewing Co. in Chatham. If beer isn't your beverage of choice, Early Acres Estate Winery has a great variety of wines for any occasion. Missing your friends? Toast them through an outside visit while bundled up, or from the comfort of your own home on one of the many digital platforms available. Throw a virtual game board game in, and you've got a night to remember with less clean-up!
Plan your 2022 Ontario Staycation
Now is a great time to start planning your 2022 Ontario Staycation and take advantage of the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit. Just by enjoying all that Chatham-Kent has to offer and staying in one of the qualified accommodations, you'll get money back when you do your taxes in 2023!
