Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, 2026

Looking for something fun to do this weekend without spending a lot of money? Bruce and Grey counties have some great opportunities to get out, enjoy the beautiful fall weather, and connect with your community!

From children’s activities and library programs to outdoor adventures and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone. At United Way of Bruce Grey, we believe enjoying your community shouldn’t have to break the bank!

Here’s a look at some free activities to check out this Saturday and Sunday.

GREY COUNTY

Owen Sound: Local Author Visit and Picture Book Reading

Saturday, October 17 | 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Bring the little ones for a special visit and picture book reading with local author Amy Darrell and Bumper. A wonderful opportunity to encourage a love of reading while celebrating local creativity!

Owen Sound: Self-Guided Salmon Tour

Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18

Get outside and enjoy one of Owen Sound’s most remarkable natural attractions! Explore local waterways and learn about the annual salmon migration. It’s a great way to enjoy the fall colours, get some fresh air and appreciate the natural beauty of our region.

Durham: Free Chair Yoga at West Grey Public Library

Saturday, October 17 | 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Looking for a relaxing way to start your Saturday? Join Jessica at the Durham Branch of West Grey Public Library for a free chair yoga session! Enjoy gentle stretching, movement, and a little time for yourself. Wear comfortable clothing and register in advance, as spaces are limited.

Meaford: Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 17 | During Library Hours

Get ready for Halloween without spending a fortune! The Meaford Public Library is hosting a Halloween Costume Swap. Bring in a gently used children’s costume or pick out one that’s new to your family. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to celebrate Halloween while giving costumes a second life!

Meaford: Teen Creative Writing Contest

Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 | Entries Accepted

Calling all young writers and artists! The Meaford Public Library’s Write @ Your Library contest invites teens to submit short stories, poetry, or cover designs for a chance to win cash prizes. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get creative and share your imagination. Entries are accepted until October 23.

Meaford: Win with Your Library Card

Sunday, October 18 | Contest Begins

Your library card could be your ticket to something special! The Meaford Public Library is celebrating with a prize draw featuring toys, activities, and other goodies. Show your library card to receive a ballot for a chance to win. Don’t have a library card? It’s a great time to sign up!

The promotion runs October 18 to 24, so check the library’s opening hours before visiting.

BRUCE COUNTY

Port Elgin: Children’s Author Kevin Sylvester

Saturday, October 17 | 1 p.m.

Young readers and aspiring artists won’t want to miss this special visit from bestselling children’s author and illustrator Kevin Sylvester! Learn about storytelling, drawing, and the creative process during this interactive library event.

Wiarton: 6th Annual OEC Open House

Sunday, October 18

Bring the family for a fun-filled day at the Outdoor Education Centre! Enjoy hay wagon rides, children’s games, activities, and opportunities to learn more about the centre. The Bluewater Astronomical Society will also be on hand with telescopes. Admission is free, with food available for purchase.

Wiarton: Children’s Author Kevin Sylvester

Sunday, October 18 | 2 p.m.

Missed Saturday’s event in Port Elgin? Here’s another opportunity to meet popular children’s author and illustrator Kevin Sylvester! Bring the family to the Wiarton Library for an entertaining afternoon celebrating books, creativity, and imagination.

Port Elgin: Kids Create

Sunday, October 18 | 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Let those creative minds shine! The Port Elgin Library’s Kids Create program gives children an opportunity to enjoy a hands-on activity, explore their imagination, and have fun with other young community members.

Walkerton: Community Library Book Sale

Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 | Check Event Hours

Love a good book? Stop by the Walkerton Branch of Bruce County Public Library and browse the community book sale. It’s a wonderful opportunity to discover something new to read while supporting your local library. Browsing is free, with books available for purchase.

Kincardine: Explore the Kincardine Lighthouse and Waterfront

Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 | Self-Guided

Enjoy some fresh fall air along Kincardine’s beautiful waterfront! Take a stroll, admire the historic lighthouse from outside, and enjoy the views of Lake Huron. It’s a relaxing, budget-friendly way to spend time with family or friends. Outdoor sightseeing is free.

Southampton: Explore the Fairy Lake Trail

Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 | Self-Guided

Looking for a peaceful fall outing? Head to Southampton’s Fairy Lake and enjoy a walk surrounded by autumn colours. Bring a friend, take a few photos, and enjoy the beauty of nature right here in Bruce County. A simple and free way to make the most of your weekend!

Great Communities, Great Experiences, No Big Price Tag!

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make wonderful memories. Sometimes the best experiences are the simplest ones, whether it’s enjoying a walk outdoors, taking the kids to a library program, or meeting a neighbour at a community event.

At United Way of Bruce Grey, we know that strong communities grow through connection, kindness, and opportunities for everyone to participate. Free local activities help make those connections possible while giving individuals and families a chance to enjoy everything our beautiful region has to offer.

So grab a friend, bring the family, or head out on your own and enjoy everything Bruce and Grey counties have to offer this weekend!

Please note: Event details and schedules may change. The linked headings lead to event information pages or community calendars. Please confirm times, admission, and any registration requirements before attending. This is a selection of activities, not an exhaustive listing of all free events.