Toronto’s winter calendar gets a big splash of adventure this weekend as the 2026 Toronto International Boat Show returns to the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place from January 17–25, 2026. Recognized as North America’s largest indoor boat show, this nine-day celebration of boating, water sports, outdoor lifestyle and more draws tens of thousands of visitors every year, with something for every kind of water enthusiast — from hands-on experiences to thought-provoking films and interactive displays.
Whether you’re dreaming of summer sailing, obsessed with kayaks and canoes, or just curious to try something different this weekend, the show transforms the convention centre into a vibrant water-centric playground — right in the heart of winter.
🛶 Paddling Film Festival Premiere — January 22
One of the highlights of this year’s show is the Paddling Film Festival Premiere, kicking off its 2026 world tour right here in Toronto on Thursday, January 22. The festival celebrates the universal connection to water through award-winning films that capture paddling adventures on rivers, lakes and oceans. What makes this screening extra special is that you’ll see only the winning films — a surprise lineup that’s not shown anywhere else on the tour.
- 📍 Where: Enercare Centre, Salon 107 (near Hall B entrance)
- 🕕 Doors Open: 6:00 p.m.
- 🎥 Film Screening: 6:30–10:00 p.m.
Tickets:
- Standard: $20 — includes film & entry to the Boat Show from 4:00 p.m.
- Premium: $30 — includes film & entry to the show starting at 11:00 a.m.
All proceeds support Project Canoe, a Toronto-based youth charity that fosters transformative outdoor experiences.
This night is ideal for film lovers, paddling enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a cinematic escape into nature’s wild places — without leaving the city.
🏓 Pickleball on the Water — Yes, Really
Not your typical winter sport: the show’s Indoor Lake, the world’s largest body of indoor water created for boaters at a boat show, doubles as a floating pickleball court for the first five days of IDS. Participants can grab a paddle and hit the court right on the water — a quirky and totally free-spirit activity that bridges water life with one of Canada’s fastest-growing sports.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious to try something new, this indoor pickleball experience — alongside canoe demos, kayak races, and free boat rides — offers a playful, interactive diversion from the usual trade-show routine.
🚤 More to Explore at the Show
The Boat Show’s indoor lake area also offers:
- Free boat rides in canoes, kayaks and pedal boats
- Wakeboard demos and competitions
- Remote control sailboat races
- Fishing seminars and giant fish tank displays
- Boat-handling and docking lessons
- Kids & Classics Museum hands-on booths
- Antique and vintage boat showcases
Plus: over 500 exhibitors and 1,000+ boats on display, from sleek cruisers to kayaks and dayboats — making the event perfect for families, outdoor lovers, and anyone planning their next summer adventure.
📅 Show Info & Tickets
2026 Toronto International Boat Show
📍 Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON
📆 January 17–25, 2026
Hours:
- Daily various hours (including extended evenings Jan. 21–22)
- Check the official site for exact show times and special events.
🎟 Tickets are on sale now at www.torontoboatshow.com — grab yours before the weekend crowds arrive.
Whether you’re into films, paddling, pickleball, water sports, or just curious about life on the water, the Toronto Boat Show offers a one-of-a-kind winter escape that’s fun, educational, and totally splashworthy.
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