The following media releases were issued by the City of Barrie's Marketing & Communications Department within the last two years.
The City will open registration for spring programs for residents on Tuesday, February 24 at 8 a.m. Non-resident registration opens on Tuesday, March 3. Customers can now browse offerings via play.barrie.ca and save them to their spring recreation “Wish List" to conveniently find desired programs when registration opens.
The City of Barrie is preparing for another winter weather system tomorrow, as Environment Canada is predicting significant snowfall for the area, as well as a risk of freezing rain and ice pellets.
The City is seeking residents’ feedback to support the creation of a new Parks Strategic Plan. The plan will create a roadmap for future parkland services and outdoor recreation facilities in Barrie, as the city grows to an anticipated 298,000 people by 2051.
Barrie Fire and Emergency Service (BFES) will host the 2nd annual Ignite! Barrie Fire Academy from May 29 to 31, 2026.
Local students with an entrepreneurial spirit are invited to apply for this year’s Summer Company Program for the opportunity to turn their passion into a real business venture and a summer job. The program is available to students in Barrie, Simcoe County, and Orillia who are between the ages of 15 and 29 and who are returning to school in the fall.
The City of Barrie reminds residents of the following affected services, closures and activities happening on the Family Day holiday (Monday, February 16, 2026).
– The City of Barrie’s annual Family Day celebration returns this year at a brand new location: Barrie City Hall (70 Collier Street). Families are invited to enjoy free, family friendly activities on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The City and the Barrie Public Art Committee are inviting proposals from artists for public art installations that will serve as a downtown patio enhancement, as part of the 2026 Brightening Barriers program.
Barrie Winterfest returns February 7 and 8, offering two full days of seasonal fun at Centennial Park, throughout downtown Barrie, and at other venues across the city.
February is Black History Month and the City of Barrie is proud to support and share some of the community's events and initiatives that highlight the significant contributions Black Canadians have made and continue to make to the cultural landscape of our country.
Media releases are archived on this website for up to two years.