Muskokans are a thriving, tight-knit, true-northern community that comes alive when the lake freezes over and the summer cottagers head home. I should know — I’ve been one of those cottagers all my life. Yes, six generations on the same island.

But two years ago, I moved to a little Cape Cod–style home in the heart of Bracebridge, about two hours north of Toronto. And since then, I’ve discovered a small-town winter wonderland far from the lake, one that the “townies” (like me now) absolutely adore.

Today, you’ll get a glimpse of these real Muskokans, what they love about winter here, and one truly audacious way they celebrate Muskoka’s so-called off-season.

Learn more about the Fire and Ice Festival at https://fireandicebracebridge.com/