Merry Christmas from Meaford Haven! We’re glad to see it looks like it’s going to be a white one after all.

In Meaford, winter is just another opportunity to enjoy the activities the area has to offer and to embrace the great outdoors.

Here are some ideas on what to do during your 12 days of Meaford Christmas.

1. Carve the hills. Despite Mother Nature’s stinginess with snow so far this year, the Village webcam at Blue Mountain is showing some action on a few runs. And with colder temps and snow in the forecast, there’s lots more to come. (Driving by last night, we saw the snowmaking going furiously.)

2. Enjoy a glass of Coffin Ridge wine by a roaring fire. This unique local winery has something for every palate and menu, and this winter, they’ll be grooming cross country ski trails around the vineyards.

3. Head down to the Meaford Curling Club on December 27 to watch or participate in the Family Bonspiel – a great opportunity to socialize with friends while sharing competition and exercise with all. More details

4. Rock out at Ted’s Jam Night. With everyone home for the holidays, the place will be rockin’ on Wednesday night, as a crew of new faces and regulars takes to the stage.

5. Head to Meaford Arena for $2 adult skating at 10:30 a.m. or free public skating (sponsored by the Apple Harvest Craft Show) at 1 p.m.

6. Stroll through the Village at Blue to enjoy the Christmas decorations and check out the shops. Let the kids join in the Scavenger Hunt, or go skating on the pond. Then cap it off by settling down to a great meal at one of many restaurants.

7. Kick off the New Year’s Eve festivities with a delicious three courses of Lobster and Crab Ravioli, Roasted Ontario Duck Breast, and Vanilla Panna Cotta. Celebrate New Year’s at Meaford Hall with a meal by Reed’s Catering, door prizes, friends, fun and festivities. Only $40, including a glass of champagne. More details.

8. On New Year’s Day, meet with the Mayor and your neighbours at the Mayor’s Levee from noon to 2 p.m. at Meaford Hall Galleries. Enjoy hors d’oeuvre’s and refreshments, and find out who has won the Passport Meaford Contest.

9. Fire up your snowmobile and take to the trails. Get in touch with the Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club or visit www.snowmobilegreybruce.com to find the best routes and events.

10. Break backcountry trail at Kolapore, or enjoy the groomed cross country ski trails at Scenic Caves or Massie Trails, all within half an hour of Meaford Haven.

11.Snowshoe out your back yard, or meander along the Bighead River on the Trout Hollow Trail.

12. Mull some locally produced cider or mix up a festive drink with Meredith’s Ginger Syrup. Whatever your favourite, you’ll find lots of local flavours to enhance your festive gathering or provide a warm finish to your active day.