A Season of Togetherness
Métis Families Gather for Fall Family Camp
Métis families from across Ontario gathered in early October for the Métis Nation of Ontario’s Fall Family Camp—a four-day celebration of culture, community, and outdoor adventure.
Held at Camp Wanakita in Haliburton, the in-person event brought families together to connect, learn, and take part in engaging activities that celebrated Métis culture and the beauty of the fall season.
Families settled into their cabins Friday afternoon and then were welcomed to camp by staff and presenters. After a delicious dinner, the evening continued with crafts and games such as cup decorating, button making, and jar crafts. Later that evening, adults attended an information session on MNO programs and services while children enjoyed open programming in the main hall.
Saturday’s full schedule kicked off with families taking part in cultural activity stations featuring fur and scat identification, tote bag decorating inspired by sash colours, beginner jigging lessons, and outdoor art projects such as lead rubbing. In the afternoon, families explored Camp Wanakita through hikes, scavenger hunts, and canoeing, while others joined beginner beading sessions indoors.
The evening Kitchen Party around the campfire was a highlight of the weekend, featuring s’mores, jigging, and gross motor games, including a lively tug of war game that filled the night with laughter and joy. Older youth, known as “Moose,” also had the chance to test their teamwork and problem-solving skills in an escape room challenge.
The fun continued on Sunday with a needle felting workshop, where families learned to sculpt wool into creative designs using special barbed needles, as well as a lively predator vs. prey game led by YMCA staff. Families enjoyed more self-guided created time, including dot art, beading, and swimming. Children were then divided into age-based groups for the afternoon programming as they learned new skills such as archery, jam making, and high ropes climbing.
The camp concluded Sunday evening with a closing ceremony at the fire pit, where families reflected on the weekend and decorated their commemorative camp shirts. By Monday morning, Métis families departed with new memories, friendships, and a sense of pride and community.
Maarsii to the families and staff who made the weekend unforgettable!