Adventure Begins Here
There is so much to do in Algonquin Highlands! The Township offers a wide array of indoor and outdoor recreation programs all year long for all ages, interests and abilities.
Drop-In Basketball
Thursdays until August 28, 2025, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Dorset Recreation Centre
Drop-in basketball is open to all ability levels. Join us at the Dorset Recreation Centre in the Gymnasium on Thursday evenings. You can preregister here.
There is no fee to register online. This program is included with membership. If you do not have a membership, day pass fees will apply upon arrival.
Book Club First Wednesday of the Month The Dorset Book Club meets once a month at the Dorset Recreation Centre on the first Wednesday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m. If you are unable to attend in person upon request we are able to send you a Zoom Link to participate virtually. All are welcome! Learn more or register.
CARDS & GAMES NIGHT
Dorset Recreation Centre
Come and enjoy a variety of games, fun competition and socialization on Wednesday evenings throughout September from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Scheduled games nights are as follows:
Sept. 3 - Yahzee/Boggle Night in Dorset
Sept. 10 - Euchre Night in Dorset
Sept. 17 - Bridge Night in Dorset
Sept. 24 - Dominos & Quirkle Night in Dorset
You can view the community calendar here.
For more information contact the Dorset Recreation Centre at 705-766-9968 or email recreation@algonquinhighlands.ca
Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m.. to 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $15.00 + HST per class. All levels are welcome.
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Classes are designed to work on improving balance and maintaining mobility, with the focus on breathing, body awareness, flexibility, and stress reduction. All levels and drop-ins welcome. Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
Thursday March 12 & 26 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free 55+
Location: Oxtongue Lake Community Centre
Description: Classes are designed to work on improving balance and maintaining mobility, with the focus on breathing, body awareness, flexibility, and stress reduction. All skill levels welcome.
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
DORSET LINE DANCING
Date: Mondays, April 13-May 25, 2026
Time: 2 to 4 PM
Cost: $60+HST for 6 weeks - $12+HST for drop in
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Join us for a 6-week line dance series designed to work for you! Each class is two hours long and starts with beginner dances, gradually progressing as the class goes on. The first hour focuses on learning the steps, perfect if you’re brand new to line dancing. The second hour builds on those foundations with a mix of beginner and improver dances to help you grow your skills. You’re welcome to attend the full two hours or choose the portion that suits you best. Please bring a refillable water bottle and an indoor pair of shoes.
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
Sunday, September 28, 2025 to April 26, 2026
10 a.m. to Noon
Dorset Recreation Centre
Come out to the DRC and watch members of the Dorset Model Aviators, Airplane & Helicopter Flying Group fly their small ultra-light, electrically powered flying machines for a minimal fee of $2.00 per person on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This group follows the safety rules established and are certified by MAAC (Model Aeronautics Association of Canada). Please remember to bring your indoor shoes and join us in the gymnasium of the Dorset Recreation Centre.
When indoors, the group flies small ultra-light, electrically powered flying machines. Some are airplane-type, others helicopter or quad-copter type.
They share the gym by agreeing to fly in a pattern or take turns to fly mild aerobatics. The electric power allows for quiet operation and due to the light weight, it is safe for all participants.
This group welcomes new members who agree to join MAAC and are willing to follow the established safety rules.
Contact Ark Skupien at skupien@cogeco.ca if interested.
Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon, Stanhope Firefighters' Community Hall
Come out and join in the fun with instructor Jacqui Bell. This class is a great way to exercise the body and soul while having fun. All levels of ability welcome, including beginners. The cost per class is $10.00 per person.
For more information contact clancelinedance@gmail.com
Drum Fit
Date: Wednesdays
Time: 9 to 9:45 a.m.
Cost: $2.00 weekly drop-in
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: This is 45-minute fun filled fitness class. Open to all skill levels and ages.
Register here or by calling 705-766-9968.
Date: Wednesdays, April 1 to 29, 2026
Time: 9 to 9:45 a.m.
Cost: $10.00 for 5 week or $2.00 weekly drop-in
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: This is 45-minute fun filled fitness class. Open to all skill levels and ages.
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
Date: Thursdays, April 9 to May 14, 2026
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $60.00+HST for 6 week or $15.00+HST weekly drop-in
Location: Stanhope Firefighters Community Hall
Description: A 50 minute class, including a warm-up cardio conditioning, strength conditioning, balance, and a cool down. A total body workout for every day life.
Continue to stay independent and living at home by staying active and strong.
Please bring indoor shoes and a water bottle
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
(Senior Active Living Centre Program)
Date: Thursdays, July 16 to August 20, 2026
Cost: By donation
Location: Stanhope Firefighters Community Hall
Description: Join certified instructor Georgia Shank for a 45-minute senior stretch class. This class is a gentle stretching and mobility program. Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. Stretching is a very effective way to reduce pain and increase strength and mobility.
To Register: Call 705-766-9968 or register here.
Date: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
Time: 2 sessions, morning 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Afternoon 1 to 4 p.m.
Cost: By Donation
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Fitness Success Workshop, with instructor Georgia Shank. Learn how to use the fitness equipment and what does a fitness routine look like along with the benefits of proper use and regular exercise. Level up your fitness room skills and become a healthier you.
To Register: Call 705-766-9968 or register here.
Fridays, June 6 to 27, 2025
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Dorset Recreation Centre
Drop in to play floor hockey at the Dorset Recreation Centre! This program is entails informal, non-competitive pickup-style floor hockey, and is open to all ages. Please note that there is no pre-registration required. This program is free with membership, or day pass fees will apply.
Dorset
Drop in for pickleball at the Dorset Recreation Centre at 1051 Main Street on:
You are welcome to pre-register for any of our drop-in pickleball programs, as well as see how many people have already pre-registered. You can register here.
Please note pre-registration is not mandatory and you are welcome to continue to drop in any time. Please note a day pass or membership is required to participate at the pickleball drop-in, but the online pre-registration is free.
Please let us know if you have any questions or need support accessing your online account by emailing recreation@algonquinhighlands.ca or calling 705-766-9968.
Pilates
Date: Thursdays
Time: 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.
Cost: $10.00 per class (HST included)
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Pilates class focuses on the basics and helps you feel more connected to your body. You’ll learn how to match your breath with movement, strengthen your core, and move with confidence and control. With regular practice, you’ll improve your posture, boost body awareness, and build strength that supports you in everyday life. Please remember to bring indoor shoes, refillable water bottle and a yoga mat if you have one.
Register here or by calling 705-766-9968.
Stanhope Soccer League (For children ages 4 to 11)
Date: Tuesdays, July 7 to August 25, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $48.04 for 8-week program
Location: Stanhope Park
Description: Stanhope Soccer League is a fun, non-competitive, skills-building, outdoor league for children aged 4 to 11, running July 7 through August 25, 2026, at Stanhope Gardens. The cost of this 8-week program includes a shirt, team photo and end-of-the-year celebration. Registration will open on Monday, April 27th, 2026 at 9:00am.
You can register here or by calling 705-766-9968.
Please note: Spaces are limited, and volunteer coaches are needed to make this program a success. If you are interested please reach out to the recreation department at 705-766-9968 or email recreation@algonquinhighlands.ca
Fridays from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., Stanhope Firefighters' Community Hall
Moving meditation, tai chi incorporates stretching and turning in a sequence of movements. Taoist Tai Chi is specifically designed to improve health. It can bring a wide range of health benefits to the muscular, skeletal, and circulatory systems. In the process, it contributes to better balance and posture, increased strength and flexibility, and calmness and peace of mind.
For more information, visit www.taoist.org, or call Wilma at 705-457-5829.
Taoist Tai Chi - Basic Beginner Classes
Fridays from 11 a.m. to noon, Stanhope Firefighters' Community Hall
The basic beginner session is literally just the beginning. It is an introduction to the movements through a low impact, developmental process, and people of all ages and abilities can learn and benefit from it. Some participants only take the initial session out of curiosity, many continue practicing for the rest of their lives.
For more information, visit www.taoist.org, or call Wilma at705-457-5829.
Date: Tuesdays
Time: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Cost: $2.00 weekly drop-in or register by the month
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Come out an enjoy Toning class with instructor Joanne McLeod, light weight in a fun and friendly environment. All abilities welcome! Bring a bag lunch and join us after class for a social time.
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
Date: Fridays
Time: 9 to 10 a.m.
Cost: $2.00 weekly drop-in or register by the month
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: Come out an enjoy Toning class with instructor Joanne McLeod, light weight in a fun and friendly environment. All abilities welcome!
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
Mondays 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Please note there will be NO classes on Statutory Holidays.
Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m.
This program is for those aged 55 and older.
Cost: Free
The VON is offering the SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together)® Exercise Program at the Dorset Recreation Centre, free of charge! (Classes are funded by Ontario Health at Home)
SMART exercises are designed to: strengthen muscles; increase flexibility and/or balance; and prevent falls.
Classes are held twice a week, by VON trained Exercise Leaders.
Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Spaces are limited.
To register, call 705-787-1996.
Monday – Friday
9:00 to 9:45 a.m.
Dorset Recreation Centre
Come out and join us in the Gymnasium and bring your indoor walking shoes! This program provides opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and build social support networks. It is also a great way to get your steps in on inclement weather days while avoiding the bugs. Please note this program is free with membership, or a day pass fee will apply.
Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.
Cost: $15.00 + HST per class. All levels are welcome.
Location: Dorset Recreation Centre
Description: All levels are welcome. Classes are designed to work on improving balance and maintaining mobility, with the focus on breathing, body awareness, flexibility, and stress reduction. Yoga poses will take you from the floor, to hands and knees to standing positions.
Registration is available online or by calling 705-766-9968.
ZUMBA – Dorset Recreation Centre
September 22 to November 3, 2025 (Please note there is no class on Monday, October 13th)
Mondays from 4 to 5 p.m.
Cost: $2.00 per class
All levels are welcome. Classes will take at the Dorset Recreation Centre in the Gymnasium and this fun fitness class will be for all genders and ability levels (18+ years).
Register here or by calling 705-766-9968.
Events
Sunday, June 28, 2026
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Dorset Parkette
Saturday, October 10, 2026
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Dorset Recreation Centre
Join us at the Dorset Arts & Crafts Show for a vibrant celebration of local talent. Explore a diverse collection of handmade goods, from exquisite wood working and jewelry to stunning paintings and unique textiles.
Meet talented artisans, find the perfect gift, and support your local creative community.
NEW Vendors Welcome!
For more information contact 705-766-9968 or register online.
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Oxtongue Lake Community Centre
Come out and enjoy some Canada Day festivities! We are excited to announce the book launch of Oxtongue Inspires; Through the lens of local artists from Algonquin to Lake of Bays. Algonquin Highlands Fire Services will be hosting an open house and BBQ lunch. Amanda’s Exotic Animals will have a display and Steve Morrin -The Wildlife Caller - will be there! This is a must-see show!
Other Activities include face painting, games and silent auction. Be sure to stop by and support our local vendors!
If you would like to be a vendor at this event you can register here or by calling 705-766-9968
For more information, contact 705-766-9968 or recreation@algonquinhighlands.ca
Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Dorset Lions Centennial Park, 1054 Main Street Dorset.
Tables are available for rent to sell household yard sale items. $5.73 + HST per table. Tables are 5 feet long. Set up begins at 8 a.m. and all items must be removed by 2 p.m.. Space is limited, please reserve your table in advance.
For more information contact 705-766-9968 or register here.
Dorset Kids Fishing Derby
Saturday, July 4, 2026
9 to 11 a.m.
Town Dock by the Bridge at Trading Bay
$3.00 per child
The Dorset Kid’s Fish Derby is for children aged 16 years and under. Lots of prizes! Come with your lucky fishing, hat, socks and have fun with your choice of outfit for the day! The event will take place at the Dock downtown by the main street bridge in Dorset. If you do not have a fishing rod, we will have tackle there so you can sign one out.
For more information contact 705-766-9968 or register here.
Oxtongue Lake Community Yard Sale
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to noon
Location: Oxtongue Lake Community Centre, 3979 Hwy 60, Dwight, ON
Tables are available for rent to sell household yard sale items. $5.73+HST per table. Tables are 5 feet long. Set up begins at 8 a.m. and all items must be removed by 1 p.m.. Space is limited, please reserve your table in advance!
For more information contact 705-766-9968 or register here.
Contact Information
Dorset Recreation Centre
1051 Main Street, Box 99
Dorset, Ontario P0A 1E0
Phone/Fax: 705-766-9968
Email:
recreation@algonquinhighlands.ca
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