Good morning. Growing up I used to love flipping through the XS Cargo flyer that got delivered with our weekly paper. There was always a treasure trove of cool stuff ranging from paint ball equipment to fishing gear at some crazy price. Truly a dream for a 12 year old Sean.
Sadly XS Cargo closed their doors in 2014— but this week I discovered something that brought me back to sitting on my parents couch excitingly scanning each page thinking to myself, “S#!t, that’s a good deal.”
Local business are a fundamental part of any small town. From burger stops to the brewery that occupies your boathouse fridge, all started off as a dream that someone brought to life with hard work and perseverance. The funny thing about it is, you don’t really think about these places as business— they’re fundamental parts of your Muskoka experience. But behind every cottage tradition is a team of people who work tirelessly bring it to life.
The Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce is hosting an online auction that features a wide range of local items up for bid. Everything from plane tours over Muskoka to wakesurfing lessons lead by pros. There are some FANTASTIC deals up for grabs— and the best part is, it all goes back into helping the local business community.
The auction closes on May 7th, and they are currently 15% to their goal of $17K. If you were looking for a sign to support local business and the folks that are a key part of making Muskoka shine, this is it.
Today’s read time: 7 minutes.
Muskoka Forecast
The Essentials with Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce
It’s an online auction, but feel free to raise your hand and yell “yuuuup” when you place your bid 🙋🗣️
Love Local Supports Local helps to raise funds the Chamber needs to promote local buying in Muskoka. And hey, it’s fun!
The funds from successful bids go right back to support our local business community, including Chamber marketing programs that showcase businesses and non-profit organizations.
BIDDING OPEN NOW
BIDDING ENDS: Thursday, May 7th at 9:00 pm
Learn to wakesurf with the pros at SWS Muskoka—fun, fast, and unforgettable on the water.
Tee up something truly special at Windermere Golf & Country Club.
This is one of Muskoka’s most sought-after private courses—and chances to play here don’t come around often. Immaculate greens, classic design, and those iconic Lake Rosseau views make every round unforgettable.
Here’s your chance to step inside the ropes and experience it for yourself. A bucket-list round in beautiful Windermere, Muskoka Lakes.There is nothing quite like seeing a moose up close. The quiet strength. The sheer size. The unmistakable presence.
On your tour of Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, you might be able to experience these incredible animals in a safe and respectful setting while learning about their habits, habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild. Sometimes if it's hot or they are shy, they won't come out to see you - we have to tell you that, but most of the time visitors get lucky!Cruise back in time on one of Muskoka’s iconic steamboats.
Enjoy a scenic voyage from Gravenhurst Wharf on your 1.5 hour cruise.Climb aboard with local pilot Ron Brent and see the lakes, forests, and winding shorelines from a whole new perspective. This is the view few get to see from above: sparkling water, hidden bays, and iconic landmarks stretching as far as the eye can go.
Whether you’re a lifelong cottager or seeing it fresh, this unforgettable flight is pure Muskoka magic. ️
Play
Crossed Up at the Cottage
Thursday, Apr 30, 2026
How it works: Solve the crossword, check answers, and see your time!
🏆 Solve it faster than last week?
A Final Note
Local loonies roll further
Until next time,
Reach the Canadian Cottage owners of today - and tomorrow. Learn about advertising in The Cottage Almanac.
