WAHA Blog Post

Programs

On Friday, we sent more than 40 athletes to Camp Winnebagoe for Intercamp Sports. Despite not having home-field advantage, our teams knocked it out of the park, any bringing home the W.

Our U12 Dance Team has also been hard at work preparing for tomorrow’s Dance Intercamp. Led by extraordinary dancer/choreographer, Kat Osen, the group has spent countless hours rehearsing and refining their routine. We know they are ready to hit the stage and make Wahanowin proud.

Units

We wrapped up Friday evening with a special Shabbat service presented by the Grad Unit. The theme of the service was Gratitude, and campers shared many of the things they are most thankful for. Camp food received plenty of appreciation with chicken fingers earning a particularly enthusiastic mention! More importantly, many campers expressed gratitude for their loving and supportive camp families, a reminder of the strong connections that help make camp such a special place.

Traditions

Saturday night marked the official kickoff of the 2026 Wahanowin Theatre Season in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre. The Main Camp units presented a memorable production of Seussical the Musical, the first production under the leadership of Co-Theatre Directors Eloise & Zoe. Five Star reviews from all theatregoers. Many audience members commented that it was the best production of Seussical in Wahanowin history!

Before the standing ovations had even finished, the entire camp was whisked away to Bunny Beach for an epic Opening Ceremony of the 25th Annual Wahanowin Olympiad. Once again, Team Waha and Team Nowin faced off in one of the closest and most hard-fought competitions in Olympiad history. For our newest campers, it was an introduction to a tradition they will carry with them forever. Once you are assigned to Team Waha or Team Nowin, that team pride stays with you for life.

One of the day’s most memorable moments was the legendary Team Marathon. Team Nowin built what appeared to be an insurmountable lead, but as every veteran Olympian knows, it all comes down to the rope burn (i.e. Burn Baby Burn). In a dramatic comeback, Team Waha built their fire in record time, and their rope burned through just moments before Team Nowin was poised to secure the victory. It was a classic Olympiad moment that campers will be talking about for years to come.

As always, Olympiad concluded with Closing Ceremonies in the theatre, where each team proudly presented its dance, song, and plaque. Particularly noteworthy this year was the message reflected in both teams’ plaques: camp unity. While competition fuels the excitement of Olympiad, both teams beautifully captured the idea that the joy of competing together never outweighs the importance of being one Wahanowin community.

In the end, however, there could only be one champion. Drumroll, please… By the narrowest of margins, Team Nowin emerged as the 2026 Olympiad Champion!

Congratulations to all competitors for their incredible passion, effort, and sportsmanship in what was truly one of the great days in Summer 2026.

This morning, campers enjoyed a well-earned sleep-in followed by a delicious brunch. Phew!

And the best part? There’s still so much more to go. We’re having so much fun!!!

July 8, 2026

Where Has the Time Gone?

Time has truly flown by. We can hardly believe that the sun is beginning to set on our two-week session. Thankfully, it has been an action-packed, non-stop adventure at Wahanowin, filled with countless memories that will stay with our campers long after the summer ends. As we mentioned previously, imagine the lifelong friendships that have already formed in Summer 2026.

Campers have embraced every opportunity, whether they were challenging themselves on the waterfront, competing in a sport, or simply enjoying time with friends. The sense of community that has developed over these two weeks has been truly special to watch.

Traditions

We love our well-worn traditions at Wahanowin, but we also believe there is always room to create new ones.

Our second annual Sunset Campfire Sing Song was a massive success. As the sun slowly dipped below the horizon, the entire camp gathered together to sing some of our favourite campfire songs. It was one of those quintessential camp moments that reminds us just how special this place can be. Is there anything more peaceful than sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with your camp family, singing as the sky lights up in brilliant colours over Lake Couchiching?

Activities

There has been plenty of excitement down at the waterfront this week as campers enthusiastically welcomed the newest member of the Wahanowin boat fleet: Beatrice, or “Bee” for short. With just a hint of yellow, the name seemed like a perfect fit. If wake surfing wasn’t popular before, wowza! Campers have been lining up for their chance to work on their surfing skills

 Programs

Tuesday brought one of the marquee events of the summer as Wahanowin welcomed several other camps for the annual W Tournament. Our athletes represented camp with tremendous effort, sportsmanship, and pride throughout the day. Both the U12 and U16 Boys competed hard and performed brilliantly against strong competition. The story of the tournament, however, belonged to our U16 Girls, who embraced their underdog status and emerged as CHAMPIONS!  Let’s go, Waha! Their accomplishment was celebrated by campers and staff alike and served as a wonderful reminder of what can happen when a group believes in one another.

Earlier today, the camp gathered at the flagpole for an EPIC Spirit Rally where the entire camp rocked their unit colours…lots of cheering but the Eagles took the win this week!

 Units

A major highlight of the week was the return of the Eagle Unit from their overnight trip on Monday and the BB-Bears on Tuesday. For many campers, it was their very first overnight camping experience, making the adventure even more meaningful. The weather could not have cooperated any better, providing perfect conditions for campers to enjoy. What’s not to love about sleeping under the stars, exploring the outdoors, and creating memories that simply can’t be replicated anywhere else?

Looking Ahead

It has been a phenomenal two weeks. As we prepare to say goodbye to many of our campers tomorrow, there is certainly a mix of emotions around camp. While we will miss everyone who is heading home, we are incredibly grateful for the memories we have created together and the opportunity to be part of their summer stories.

One of the lessons camp teaches us every year is how important it is to cherish every moment. The days can sometimes feel long, but the weeks pass in the blink of an eye. Before you know it, the summer sun will set for the last time.

Thank you for sharing your children with us. We have loved every minute of this session, and we hope your children return home with new friendships, greater confidence, and stories they’ll be telling for years to come.

July 1, 2026

It’s safe to say that summer has officially arrived at Wahanowin! Canada Day greeted us with soaring temperatures, bright sunshine, and another picture-perfect day on the shores of Lake Couchiching.

While it’s been hot, our campers have been taking full advantage of every opportunity to cool off. Between bonus swims in the lake, waterfront activities, sprinklers set up across camp, and plenty of shade breaks, everyone has been staying safe, hydrated, and making the most of these classic summer camp conditions.

As we move through our first week together, camp is beginning to feel even more like home. We’ve seen campers settle into routines and become more confident in navigating camp life. For many of our first-time campers, those early feelings of homesickness have largely faded away, replaced by a growing sense of belonging within their units and across camp.

Traditions

One of the highlights of camp life is watching connections form between campers of different ages. Those special connections will be on full display this Friday evening when the LTP and BB/Bear buddies come together to lead our next Shabbat Service. We are excited to see the camp spirit that this unique group brings to one of our favourite weekly traditions.

Programs

Canada Day has been filled with plenty of red and white spirit around camp, but the competitive energy is only just getting started. Tomorrow marks our first Spirit Rally of the summer, when campers will proudly wear their unit colours and compete in a variety of challenges and activities.

Keeping cool has become an art form at Wahanowin. One of today’s favourite moments was a special “Snack Attack” at the waterfront, where campers enjoyed Beavertail bites while taking a refreshing swim. Combined with extra lake dips throughout the day, it was a perfect way to celebrate summer and Canada Day at camp.

Many campers gathered in the Theatre last night for a World Cup viewing party to cheer on Mexico. The event drew a fantastic crowd and created a particularly meaningful experience for our campers and staff from Mexico, who were thrilled to share their national pride with the wider camp community.

Units 

Last night delivered some unforgettable evening programs across camp. The PGs embraced the heat with an epic water-themed Man Hunt that quickly turned into a massive water battle, while the Grads spent the evening racing and sliding through a giant slip-and-slide experience. Both activities provided equal parts excitement, and much-needed ways to beat the heat.

As we look ahead to the rest of the week, there is plenty more excitement on the horizon. From Spirit Rally to Shabbat, unit activities to waterfront fun, Summer 2026 continues to build momentum. The energy around camp remains incredibly high, and we can’t wait to see what the next few days bring.

June 29, 2026

It’s been a phenomenal start to Summer 2026 at Wahanowin! The thermostat just got cranked up and it looks like we’re in for a full week of sunshine and classic camp heat. Hats, sunscreen, and water bottles are the must-have accessories for campers and staff alike. We’re making sure everyone stays cool, safe, and hydrated while soaking up every moment.

But temperature is not the only thing that is soaring high: the vibe here is off the charts. With a full camp, the energy and enthusiasm are palpable and contagious. From the very first night, the theatre was alive with booming unit cheers that set the tone for what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable summer.

We know that many campers are here for their very first Wahanowin experience, and with that comes a natural period of adjustment and discovery. The amazing thing about camp is how quickly everything clicks – people always say one day at camp feels like a week back home, and we’re already seeing that magic in action. Our incredible staff and Camper Care team are working closely with each camper to ensure a smooth, positive transition.

Traditions      

Our Head Staff led the first Shabbat Service of the summer, centred around the theme “Be Part of It.” It perfectly captured the spirit we hope everyone brings to camp: dive in, try new things, and fully embrace the Wahanowin experience. It was a special moment to hear a packed theatre singing the Wahanowin classic, ‘This Place I Know’ during the service.

Units

Sunday brought one of our most heartwarming traditions – the BB/Bear and LTP Buddy Picnic. Our oldest campers were paired up with our youngest, creating instant connections across the camp life cycle. It’s a beautiful way for mentorship, laughter, and friendship to take root, and we’re so excited for all the buddy moments still to come this summer.

Our CITS took off bright and early this morning for the annual rafting trip along the Ottawa River.

The LTPs are gearing up for their own adventure, heading out tomorrow for a two-day hiking trip.

Programs

We didn’t waste a second bringing the big-time fun to Summer 2026. Last night’s Camp-wide Carnival transformed Main Camp into a tropical escape bursting with color and cool vibes. Campers enjoyed pony rides, giant inflatables, an epic water slide, carnival treats, and interactive games everywhere you turned.

Meanwhile, the arts are already in full swing. Rehearsals have begun for our first major production of the summer: Seussical the Musical, featuring our Main Camp units. We can’t wait to see the creativity, talent, and Dr. Seuss magic come alive on stage in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre next Saturday night.

And the excitement doesn’t stop there – auditions are underway for Dance Intercamp, where campers from 10 different camps will compete for the coveted trophy. The talent and dedication we’ve seen so far has been incredible.

So much has already happened, and yet, we’re just getting started. Summer 2026 is off to an amazing start, and we can’t wait for everything still to come!

June 25, 2026

🎵 Countdown, finally done
Been waiting for this drive
My friends are here
You can hear them cheer
Cause we finally arrived

Down to Main Camp
Or up to the Grove
Doesn’t matter where I am
Cause I finally made it back to Wahanowin 🎵

–  This Place I Know

Dear Wahanowin Families,

We were beyond excited to welcome back so many familiar faces to the shores of Lake Couchiching, and just as excited to meet so many campers who are stepping into Wahanowin for the very first time. No matter where they came from, by the end of today every single camper and staff member became part of one incredible WAHA community.

And wow… what an arrival!

With the music blasting, staff cheering at full volume, and that unmistakable Wahanowin energy in the air, campers stepped off the buses into something VERY special. There were definitely all the first-day feels, a little curiosity, a little excitement, maybe even a few nerves, but it didn’t take long before those turned into smiles, laughter, and instant connections.

Our returning campers were absolute superstars, helping lead the way and making sure that every new camper felt welcomed, supported, and included from the very first moment. That’s what WAHA is all about.

The afternoon flew by as cabins came to life, with new friendships already starting to take shape. Our staff did what they do best, turning introductions into real connections and helping every camper feel like they belong. It’s heartwarming to think about the lifelong friendships that began today.

And then… one of the most anticipated moments of Day 1: Chef Adam’s legendary opening night pasta dinner. Yes, it was as big a hit as always.

Tonight, we gathered in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for our Opening Ceremonies. Dressed in unit colours, the campers and staff were cheering non-stop. What an awesome way to begin the summer! For our new campers, it was their first real taste of WAHA spirit, and for everyone else, a reminder that they’re exactly where they’re meant to be.

As if the day needed a better ending, we were treated to a classic deep red Wahanowin sunset, the kind that makes you pause for a second and just take it all in. A perfect finish to Day 1 of our 71st summer.

If today was any indication, this summer is going to be something special. There’s an incredible feeling around camp right now, full of connection, inclusivity, and fresh beginnings.

We feel so lucky to be sharing this with your children, and so proud to be watching many continue or begin their WAHA journey today.

Thank you for your trust in us and in our team. We’ve got this!

Elijah and Tia

Aug 13, 2025

We miss you already…2025 was THE BEST summer ever!

What a summer!

The buses rolled out just a few hours ago, and camp feels quiet! Today is always such a strange day for us – we celebrate an epic summer while also feeling sad it’s all over for another year.

But what a year it was! Wahanowin 2025 was incredibly special. Everyone felt it. The weather was perfect, the programs were exceptional, the energy was high, and the campers shined. It was one of those summers where everyone came loving camp but left totally obsessed!

For us, every moment is magical, but there are always some that stand out and represent everything WAHA is about:

• Camp-wide campfire at Bunny beach, with a spectacular Couchiching sunset, six guitars, 300 voices singing and a skyful of stars to end the night.
• The LTP-BB-BEAR Buddy program continues to create special bonds between our oldest and youngest campers. When reflecting back on their time as campers, our CITS consistently talk about how much they loved the opportunity to have that impact.
• Airbands energy was lit – from the second the units busted into the dining hall in their colours ready to rumble, to announcing the winner in the theatre. It’s what camp is all about.
• Dance Intercamp was absolutely fire this year. We hosted nine other camps for a great day of competition and incredible talent. It’s such an amazing tradition for both the dancers and the audience.
• Our community is strong and deeply rooted, as evidenced by our milestone celebrations this year – 46 people celebrated five years, nine people celebrated 10 years and one person celebrated 15 years. We are so honoured that people keep coming home to WAHA.
• 23 campers from the Reena Foundation had the full WAHA experience this summer including participating in activities and special programs (campfires, services and plays).

There is definitely a WAHA buzz happening. We felt it at camp, but we also feel it from the wider community. Our Wahano-One and Weekender programs were completely sold out this summer – with more than 500 young campers experiencing sleepover camp for the first time at Wahanowin! It’s the largest attendance we’ve ever had.

As you also may be aware, Camp Tamarack had its final season this past summer. Many Tamarack families have inquired about Wahanowin for Summer 2026, and many have toured camp to see what WAHA is all about.

Given that, we encourage you to take advantage of early registration starting on September 2^nd. Demand for spots is going to increase significantly for Summer 2026, and we want to make sure that all our current Wahanowin families reserve their spots.

And finally, thank you. We are where we are today because of you. You’ve always believed in Wahanowin. And you supported us in our goal to always improve and in our dream for what’s possible for Wahanowin. We have built this momentum together and we are excited to grow our community. WAHA is definitely the place to be!

Elijah and Tia

Aug 11, 2025

We’re soaking up every last sunbeam, swim, and s’more as Summer 2025 winds down. The countdown is real—but the fun is far from over!

Traditions

Wahanowin Survivor: Season 17 has officially wrapped—and wow, what a finale! Huge shoutout to all our fearless competitors, and a standing ovation for Tessa Simon, who outwit, outplayed, and outlasted to claim the title of Ultimate Survivor.

Tonight, we’re trading bug spray for bow ties at the legendary Wahano-Ball. The Dining Hall transforms into a glittering ballroom where Chef Adam serves up his fan-favourite steak and potatoes (seriously, five stars on Yelp if we could). Then it’s time to bust a move with DJ Spencer (aka, Spencer – our Alumni Unit Head), who knows exactly how to turn a dance floor into a full-blown party.

Tomorrow night, we go out with a bang—literally. Our Closing Banquet, hosted by the fabulous CITS, is tailgate-themed this year, and we’re already drooling over what Chef Adam might whip up. After dinner, it’s off to the theatre for performances, awards, and the grand finale: the Burning of the W, complete with a firework show that lights up the sky and our hearts.

Unit Activities

Saturday was a splash-tacular success for the LTPs, who dove headfirst into their Splash Bash. Picture water guns, paint, and messy campers/staff—capped off by a sprint into the lake.

Programs

Our Wahano-One campers got the VIP treatment on Saturday with a mini taste of camp life. These pint-sized adventurers brought big energy, and our staff and CITs brought the magic. We were especially proud of our CITs, who demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout the day.

We’re almost at the finish line—but we’re not waving goodbye just yet. Let’s make this last day unforgettable.

Aug 8, 2025

Our second rainfall of the summer came in like a cool breeze at just the right moment. It only lasted an hour, but it gave us a much-needed break from the heat and a chance to pause, breathe, and soak in the magic of camp life. With just days left in Summer 2025, every moment feels a little more golden.

Tradition

Tonight is one of the most cherished traditions at Wahanowin: our CIT/10 Year Service. It’s a night filled with stories, laughter, and the kind of tears that come from deep love and connection. Our oldest campers and longtime community members — those who’ve been part of Wahanowin for a decade or more — take the lead, sharing memories that tug at the heartstrings. The evening wraps with a beautiful ceremony welcoming the newest members into the 10 Year Club. Kleenex highly recommended.

Unit Activities

This morning, our CITs traded camp gear for aprons and teamed up with Chef Adam to bake the Challah for our final Shabbat dinner of the summer. The kitchen was buzzing with flour and laughter. It’s more than bread — it’s tradition, teamwork, and a delicious way to say goodbye to an unforgettable summer.

Events

Wahanowin’s 17th season of Survivor is reaching peak intensity — we’re down to the final three! The whole camp has been swept up in the drama of redemption arcs, nail-biting eliminations, and epic challenges. Our contestants have braved it all over the past three nights, and the grand finale on Monday promises to be epic.

Tomorrow night, the curtain rises one last time for the final play of the summer — and what better way to close out the 2025 Theatre Season than with the fan-favorite Mama Mia!

A few nights ago, we gathered at the beach for a Campfire Singalong that felt straight out of a movie. Acoustic guitars strummed under a painted sunset, the fire crackled, and the whole camp joined in for a chorus of classic folk rock. Pure magic.

And tomorrow, we roll out the welcome mat for over 40 brand new campers for our Wahano-One day! These future campers will get a taste of the Wahanowin experience, surrounded by cheers, support, and the full force of our incredible community.

With the end of Summer 2025 on the horizon, we’re holding tight to every laugh, every hug, and every unforgettable moment. Let’s make these last days count.

Aug 4, 2025

Summer of the Sun at Wahanowin! 

Aside from one dramatic storm (Mother Nature’s flair for the theatrical), we haven’t had to dip into our rainy day program stash. 2025 is serving up endless golden rays —and we are loving it!

Programs

Saturday was straight out of a summer dream. Picture this: sizzling BBQ aromas, Caribbean beats floating through the air, and campers sipping smoothies at our swim-up smoothie bar. Yes, it was as awesome as it sounds. BEACH DAY!

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the stage lit up with a spellbinding performance of Wicked. Campers from multiple units defied gravity and expectations, leaving us all cheering for an encore. Broadway better watch out!

Chef Adam is taking us on a gourmet getaway this Wednesday. French cuisine is on the menu, and we’re ready to say oui oui to whatever deliciousness he’s cooking up.

Unit Activities

Immediately after the curtain closed on Wicked, the Grads and PGs got a surprise mission—Princess Peach was kidnapped! Teams Mario and Luigi sprang into action for a two-day color war packed with challenges, strategy, and fierce fun. The final showdown is tonight. Who will save the princess?

The LTP girls and our amazing Kids of Courage crew made waves at Splash On Water Park in Barrie. Laughter, splashes, and unforgettable memories were the order of the day

Traditions

We’re honored to welcome campers from Reena once again. This incredible organization supports individuals with developmental disabilities, and their time at Wahanowin is always a highlight. Our campers and staff love connecting, learning, and sharing the magic of camp with them.

Sunset Magic

With all this sunshine, we’ve been treated to breathtaking Wahanowin sunsets nearly every night. It’s the kind of beauty that makes you pause, smile, and feel grateful. Honestly, who could ask for anything more?

8 days to go!

Aug 1, 2025

We’re finally getting a summer breeze up on Lake Couchiching as we gear up for some of the best programs of the season. The sun’s out, the spirits are high, and camp life is thriving — so let’s dive in!

Programs

Today, we’re unleashing our elite squad of all-star athletes on Manitou for the home and away intercamp showdown. Tennis aces, pool sharks, basketball champs, and soccer stars — they’re ready to shine across the board. Let the friendly rivalry begin!

Meanwhile, while the heat wave tried to take us down, we turned the tide with the ultimate foam party. Think wall-to-wall suds, wild dance moves, and campers having the time of their lives. Soaked and smiling — the perfect combo.

Unit Activities

Alumni/LTP Colour was straight out of a Star Wars movie — All the jedi masters participated in a showdown of strategy and speed. In the end, Darth Vader’s red team claimed the crown and brought glory to the dark side.

Tonight, we’re bringing the camp together in the theatre for a heartwarming service hosted by the BB/Bear, Eagle and Senior units. Expect meaningful moments, laughter, and possibly a few tears.

And the CITs? They just got back from swinging through the treetops of Huntsville — Treetop Trekking brought thrills, views, and a healthy dose of adventure.

Traditions

Cue the steel drums — tomorrow is beach day! The camp transforms into our very own tropical escape, complete with a giant slip & slide by the lake and a swim up smoothie bar that dreams are made of. Good vibes are required.

Activities

Lake Couchiching’s legendary wind has been working its magic, making this week’s sailing regattas absolute standouts. Our campers are catching gusts, building skills, and racing like seasoned sailors — no wonder our sail program is so popular.

Less than two weeks to go and the energy at camp is reaching rocket fuel levels. Stay tuned — things are just getting epic.

July 28, 2025

When the Lights Went Out—Camp Powered On

Not even a 12-hour power outage could dim our spirit! The biggest storm of the summer knocked out electricity, but campers hardly blinked. One of the key life lessons we learn at camp is adaptability. We rallied, improvised, and made it to Friday night dinner just in time for the lights (and dessert) to return.

Special Programs:

This week we gathered in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for the PG service, celebrating our favorite word: community. Camp isn’t just a place—it’s a living, breathing galaxy of shared laughs, singing, and epic cabin camaraderie.

Traditions

Hold onto your lightsabers! Alumni/LTP launched into a three-day galactic showdown featuring Luke Skywalker, Yoda, and Darth Vader—yes, the force is everywhere! The break was legendary, the costumes fierce, and the competitive spirit? Stronger than a Death Star tractor beam.

Unit Activities

No rest for the theatre! As soon as the light sabres fade out, Alumni/LTP units will shift into full-throttle rehearsal mode for their production of Wicked. Expect powerhouse solos, dramatic green makeup, and enough sass to fill the Emerald City twice over.

It’s hot, but our CITs are cool. They will help us beat the heat with a spectacular “C-Iced-T Station,” serving up camp’s chilliest sips. No need to sweat it when you’ve got your hands on a frosty cup filled with creativity and camp spirit.

Activities

Campers are channeling their inner engineers to build mini boats from scratch in Woodshop—and soon, these handcrafted vessels will race across Lake Couchiching in a splashy showdown. Will they float or flounder? Either way, cheers and laughs are guaranteed.

At Waha Café, joy is dipped in chocolate and rolled in sprinkles. Campers are crafting and munching on cake pops that look like they were made by unicorns. Sweet, shareable, and slightly addictive.

From surprise storms to Star Wars-themed traditions, this month has been one for the camp history books. And the best part? The fun’s only gaining momentum. Buckle up: special programs are shifting into turbo mode.

July 23, 2025

Changeover days hit us right in the feels. After four unforgettable weeks together, saying goodbye to our first-month campers is never easy. We’ve laughed, we grew, and shared countless memories—so yes, there were more than a few tears! But as the camp clock spins faster than kids running for their tuck, we welcome our second-month campers with open arms and wild excitement. New faces, new energy, new adventures—round two is officially underway!

Traditions

We wrapped up the first session with a full-blown Air Bands showdown, and wow, was it electric! Think rock stars, dance-offs, and some serious lip-sync legends lighting up the stage. The Alumni unit claimed the crown with back-to-back wins. Can they pull off the elusive three-peat in 2026? Only time will tell.

Unit News

Big smiles and open hearts as we welcomed campers and staff from the incredible Kids of Courage program. For campers who are children of injured Israeli soldiers, Wahanowin offers a chance to just be kids—to soak in the sun, splash in the lake, and experience the magic of Canadian summer camp. We’re proud to be part of their journey.

This week’s service? Hosted by the ever-awesome PG unit, who we know will bring warmth, creativity, and a few surprises on Friday night.

Meanwhile, CITs are launching into their third rotation—more leadership, more learning, more camp legends-in-the-making!

Program Highlights

Clear your Saturday night calendar because it’s time for the Camp-Wide Talent Show! From jaw-dropping dance moves to talents you didn’t know were talents, our campers and staff never fail to impress, amuse, and inspire.

So yes, we miss our first-month campers deeply. But there’s something magical about this fresh start. It’s a time to reset, reignite, and fall in love with Wahanowin all over again.

July 21, 2025

What a Fantastic Visitor’s Day!

Sunshine, smiles, and snickle snackle — could it get any better? The hugs were so big they practically had their own zip code, and the brunch spread legendary! We hope everyone left with full hearts (and stomachs!) after a beautiful day at camp. Thanks for bringing your good vibes and making it extra special!

Unit News
After weeks of sun-soaked skies, the LTP unit got a crash course in puddle-hopping during their hiking trip — it poured like Mother Nature was making up for lost time. No full hike? No problem. These campers braved the soggy trails and made memories that will stick like mud on hiking boots!

The Grad/PG production of Footloose was a certified smash. We sang, we laughed, and we didn’t even miss Kevin Bacon. These performers cut loose in all the best ways and brought the whole camp together with epic energy.

Special Events
Wahanoween took camp by storm last Thursday! The BB/Bear, Eagle, and Senior campers strutted their cool costumes stuff for a special trick or treat in the Grove cabins. It was spooky AND spectacular. Special shoutout to Cabin 43 for their Haunted House — so creepy it gave the ghosts chills.

Tonight is the Grove Social, and trust us, the dance floor won’t know what hit it. Campers are ready to bust out all the right moves.

And tomorrow night? Buckle up — it’s the Air Band showdown! Units in their colors, wild rehearsals echoing throughout camp, and campers giving it their all on “stage.” The PGs of 2024 are looking to defend their title, but competition is fierce. It’s loud, proud, and one of the most unforgettable nights of summer.

Camp Traditions
Last Friday, we gathered in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for a deeply meaningful Alumni Unit service centered on “growth.” From mastering water skiing to tackling personal mountains, we heard powerful reflections from campers and staff that left everyone inspired.

We also had a musical surprise as alumni Osher Mader and Troy Lebane teamed up with Jenna Weir to perform the Song of the Week — and wow, it brought the house down.

The evening wrapped with the Five-Year Milestone ceremony, where over 40 campers and staff were celebrated for their amazing dedication to Wahanowin. Cue the nostalgia — old photos, new memories, and a whole lot of love.

As we roll toward the end of our first month, it’s hard to believe how fast the summer is flying by. The energy is electric and the countdown to Wednesday’s send-off is on — but there’s still plenty of fun to pack into every last moment.

July 16, 2025

The heat wave is finally expected to break tomorrow—but our campers didn’t miss a beat! We’ve channelled that summer energy into a lot more time in the lake.

Traditions

Olympiad was an epic day of fierce—and friendly—competition. From the tug-o-war to the epic marathon, campers left it all on the field. As dusk fell, the theatre roof practically lifted off with cheers during the final events. In a nail-biter finish, Team Waha clinched the Olympiad trophy for the Red Team!

Special Programs:

On Tuesday we welcomed campers from White Pine, Manitou, Walden, Winnebagoe, Timberlane, New Moon, Arowhon, Northland and Tamarack—for our annual Dance Intercamp. Our under-12 squad dazzled, and the under-16 crew slayed their routine. In the end, Winnebagoe won the overall event. We were incredibly proud of the talent and determination of our teams.

Unit News

The LTP unit set off for their two-night hiking adventure in picturesque Tobermory.  Can’t wait to hear about their journey in the caves.

Our Grads and PGs have started rehearsals for “Footloose,” ready to cut loose and bring down the house on show night.

With Saturday’s big day around the corner, Cabin-cleaning competitions have sparked some friendly rivalry—nothing like prizes to give the campers that extra special cleaning motivation.

We can’t wait to see you this weekend—get ready for big hugs and a whole lot of camp magic!

July 12, 2025

Time flies at Wahanowin and we are loving every moment.

Camp Traditions
Last night, the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre was glowing with heart and emotion as we came together for the Grad Service. The theme? Gratitude. Campers and staff shared touching reflections about the people, memories, and moments they treasure most—especially the lifelong friendships and deep love for camp.

Tonight, the theatre takes a wild turn as it becomes the Pride Lands for our first play of the season: The Lion King. The BBs/Bears, Eagles, and Seniors are ready to sing some of the most beloved tunes in movie and musical history. Of course, no show night is complete without donuts and chocolate milk for the cast and crew. Broadway wishes it had snacks this good.

Special Events
Right after the show and sugar rush, we head straight to the beach as the camp erupts into Olympiad mode. The Wahanowin Olympiad kicks off with a dazzling opening ceremony that’s far from ordinary—think fireworks, glowing Olympic rings, and the whole camp covered in red and white.

Tomorrow? It’s game time: Team Waha vs. Team Nowin. Expect fierce competition, booming chants, and enough camp spirit to power a small city.

Activities
Pottery at Arts & Crafts is officially the talk of the camp. Bowls, mugs, and mysterious-yet-marvelous clay creatures are flying off the wheel. Everyone’s getting their hands dirty, and the creativity is next-level. Campers are molding masterpieces that are equal parts of charming and hilarious.

Looking forward to another week of making forever memories on the shores of Lake Couchiching.

July 9, 2025

The Heat Wave May Be Over… But the Fun’s Just Heating Up!

With the sizzle of the sun settling down, campers haven’t missed a beat. Summer is still serving up joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments—and we’re here for every sun-kissed second.

Traditions

Tonight brings one of Wahanowin’s most cherished traditions: Midnight Madness! Campers in BB/Bears, Eagles, and Seniors will take a twilight journey through the theme of Elemental—an exhilarating after-dark experience channeling fire, water, and air! Think amusement park vibes with set pieces that shimmer and splash. The icing on the cake? Tuck at night! What could be better??!!

Special Events

Our boys and girls U16 baseball stars brought the heat to the diamond, battling hard in nail-biting finals! While we didn’t clinch the win, the teams showed incredible heart and made Waha proud.

Today was also World Tour Wednesday, and we went south of the border with delicious Mexican cuisine lighting up both breakfast and lunch.

And just around the corner—Intercamp Friday with Camp Manitou! All our teams will be competing hard. Let’s gear up and cheer loud: Let’s go Waha!!!

Activity Updates

Waha Cafe is hotter than ever, with campers whipping up tasty treats like Banana Chocolate Chip muffins. Verdict: absolutely YUM.

Over at the fishing docks, it was a real “Holy mackerel!” moment when one camper reeled in a 5-pound bass. Legendary catch alert!

As for our expanded waterpark—wowza. Campers couldn’t get enough of the new Nautilus featuring a climbing wall, speedy slides, and a daring 10-foot jump. Beat the heat? Mission accomplished.

Meanwhile, our ski crew joined the fiesta with their own Mexican-themed day, turning the docks into a salsa party.

Unit News

Campers from the PG, Alumni, and LTP units headed off on an incredible canoe trip in Algonquin Park, diving into nature and bonding over paddles, portages, and peaceful lakes.

It’s hard to believe, but our two-week session wraps up tomorrow. Time flies when you’re having all the fun—but every moment has been magic.

Here’s to the sunshine, the spirit, and the silliness of Waha. Until next time, keep those memories close and your sunscreen closer!

July 6, 2025

S’more Summer Magic: A WAHA Recap

So much goes on at Wahanowin…

July 2, 2025

🌞 WAHA WEEKLY: SIZZLING SUMMER EDITION 🦁🍁🌊

Hold onto your hats, folks, because it’s HOT, HOT, HOT here at Wahanowin—and we are not just talking about the weather. From singing in the savannah to syrup-soaked celebrations, this week has been a scorcher in all the best ways!

🎭 Camp Traditions: Hakuna Matata, Baby!
The Main Camp units have officially begun their journey to the savannah as rehearsals for The Lion King kick off. Pride Rock has never looked this fabulous.

🚣 Unit & Cabin Buzz: Paddle-Powered Adventures
The Senior Unit is blazing the tripping trail as they launched their epic two-night canoe voyage through the stunning wilds of Algonquin Park. Sunscreen? Check. S’mores? Double check.

Meanwhile, our awesome CITs are riding the waves on the legendary Ottawa River. Helmets on, adrenaline up—it’s the rafting rite of passage we all cheer for.

🎡 Carnival Craziness & Canuck Pride
Sunday brought the magic of our annual camp-wide Carnival! Inflatables bounced, faces were painted into masterpieces, and stomachs were filled with sugary wonders—cotton candy, popcorn, and the holy grail of summer sweets: slushies.

Then on Monday, we put the “eh” in Yay! with our fabulous Canada Day celebration! Campers went full maple-mode at our Canadian-themed waffle bar and decked themselves in red and white. From flag crafts to folk tunes, the patriotism was as thick as a beaver’s tail!

🍔 BBQ Bliss: Dinner on the Green
Tonight marks a mouthwatering milestone—our first Dinner on the Green! Picture this: a sun-soaked evening, the scent of barbecue in the air, and campers enjoying burgers in hand and joy in their hearts. It’s giving summer camp chic, and we are here for it.

🏀 Game On!
Tryouts for our sports teams launched today and the fields are buzzing! Whether you’re channeling your inner Serena, LeBron, or Beckham, we’ve got room for all our rising superstars.

🌏 World Tour Wednesday: G’Day, Mates!
Crikey, it’s Australia Day! From Vegemite taste tests to didgeridoo jams, campers took a dive Down Under as part of our World Tour Wednesday. Even the kangaroo hops in dodgeball were on point.

Until next time—keep that SPF high, those spirits higher, and don’t forget: at Wahanowin, every day is an adventure 💫

June 29, 2025

🎉☀️ WAHA WOW! What a Whirlwind of a Weekend! ☀️🎉

What an incredible kickoff it’s been here at Camp Wahanowin! The sun has finally caught up with us, and Lake Couchiching is sparkling under those summer rays — just in time for the magic of summer to begin. 😎🌊

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🎭 Camp Traditions: The Spirit is ALIVE!

This Friday night, the theatre echoed with excitement as Head Staff welcomed campers to our very first Friday Night Service of the summer! This year’s camp theme? Drumroll, please… 🥁
✨ “Camp Stop, Won’t Stop!” ✨
Each Head Staff member shared what this theme means to them — from cherishing every golden moment at camp, to carrying the friendships and lessons of Waha far beyond the gates. The vibe? Inspiring, heartwarming, and totally WAHA!

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🧺 Unit & Cabin News: Buddies, Picnics & Big Smiles!

Our legendary Buddy Picnic kicked off today! Campers from LTP and the BB/Bear/Eagle Units paired up for an afternoon of food, fun, and mentoring magic. It’s amazing to see how easily friendships spark between the oldest and youngest campers — the big smiles said it all!

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🍓 Daily Life: It’s the SUMMER OF FOOD!

That’s right — Summer 2025 is officially delicious! Camp food has never been tastier thanks to the amazing work of Chef Adam, who has leveled up our dining experience. 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳

Start your morning with our brand new breakfast bar — featuring everything from classic oatmeal and cocoa to fresh fruit, creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy granola, and build-your-own parfaits. Oh, and did we mention the daily smoothie station? YES. WE. DID. 🥤✨

And lunch? Don’t even get us started! Our upgraded salad bar features items like mandarin slices, feta, crunchy veggies, pasta salad, and more dressings than you can imagine.

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🏹 Activity Updates: Skillz & Thrillz!

Campers are crushing it across camp! Whether it’s waterskiing, arts & crafts, or pickleball serves, levels are being recognized every day — with roaring cheers filling the dining hall. 🏅🙌

And guess what? We’ve launched a brand new activity called WILD — a wilderness adventure zone where campers get hands-on with shelter building, fire skills, plant ID, archery, and orienteering. It’s rugged. It’s real. It’s Wahanowin Wild! 🌲🔥

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So much is happening, and we’re just getting started!
Stay tuned for more fun, laughter, and WAHA memories in the making.

Until next time…
Camp Stop, Won’t Stop 😄💙

June 26, 2025

We’ve been waiting all year, and it’s finally here! Summer 2025 has officially begun – and the rain stopped just in time!

As soon as the first bus made that left turn off Rama, you could literally feel the WAHA vibe coming alive.

There truly is nothing like the first day of camp. It’s almost indescribable. So much excitement. So much anticipation. So much possibility.

We all feel it and we all see it in the smiling face of every camper. That first step off the bus is the first step back into their best camp selves, their cabin family and the warmth of the WAHA community.

The afternoon was spent settling in – transforming beds into “areas” and bonding with cabin mates and counsellors. Everyone was excited for Chef Adam’s traditional opening day dinner of pasta rotini. After dinner, we officially kicked off Summer 2025 in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre with Opening Ceremonies. Talk about a vibe! All the units gathered together in their unit colours, singing unit songs and chanting unit cheers.

As we geared up for summer 2025, we could just feel that this was going to be THE summer. Our Wahanowin community has never felt stronger and more united. The staff and campers can feel the positive momentum that’s been building. It all came together and came alive today in smiles, hugs and laughter.

We could not be prouder in this moment. And we could not be more excited for all the amazingness that is to come!

Starting with tomorrow…our first full day of WAHA Summer 2025!

Elijah and Tia

August 14, 2024

Dear Wahanowin Families,

Time is so fundamental to the camp experience. In some ways, we are very regimented. Flagpole is at 8:25am, first period is at 10:20am, lunch is at 1:10pm. But in other ways, time passes by without notice. Campers barely know what day it is (unless it coincides with their favorite meal of the week) and forget about asking them the day of the month. That’s one of the great things about camp: we are always aware of the time, but we simultaneously get to lose ourselves in just being at Wahanowin. If you measure how much you love camp based on how fast time flies by, Summer 2024 was THE BEST!

This was our 2^nd full summer as the Owners of Camp Wahanowin. We have been so warmly embraced by this community that it’s hard to remember when Wahanowin wasn’t a fundamental part of our lives. Thank you for that!

People often ask us what distinguishes Wahanowin from other camps. We have cool activities, amazing programming, and a robust camper care program. Many camps have those features. What makes Wahanowin unique is the way all of that blends together by the people who make it happen every day. The dedication of our team is unmatched. It’s inspiring to see how much time and effort our staff put into making programs memorable. It’s heartwarming to see how much care they put into ensuring our campers, ALL campers, have the experience of a lifetime. Kids get to be their authentic selves while being constantly supported and encouraged. We see it every hour of every day. It’s like nothing we have experienced before.

We were lucky enough to have some alumni visit camp with their young kids this summer, including long-time camper and staff, Josh Benzacar. Something Josh said really stuck with us – that Wahanowin is similar to the way it was years ago but with a new and vibrant energy that is impossible to describe without experiencing it first-hand. Before his visit this summer, Josh hadn’t been to camp in about 8 years.

This summer was full of so many highlights: Waha’s celebration of their Olympiad win, seeing Ava from the BB/Bear Unit getting up on skis for the first time, the out of this world enthusiasm in the theatre for Airbands, Aidan from the LTP Unit winning Survivor, Eagle camper, Nathan, fly at the trapeze. The laughter on our campers faces when the intercamp bus returned from Manitou and its horn didn’t stop beeping for the last 45 minutes of the trip, the joy and exhaustion on the Grad/PG faces after finishing the 12 hour Colour War Treasure Hunt, watching the spontaneous dance off during Wahano-One day, and getting to smash pies in Jack and Richard’s faces as a reward for loudly singing Wahanowin songs. The list goes on and on.

We also love seeing how campers work through the inevitable challenges that come up at camp – sometimes with our support or the support of their staff, but often by themselves. What we noticed throughout the summer was that these kids are resilient and are great problem solvers.

The emotional goodbyes as the buses are about to leave are always so heartbreaking to watch. Today felt extra emotional. There just wasn’t enough time. Sometimes hearing Green Day’s song ‘Good Riddance’ feels a bit cliché. Not today.

Because we genuinely had the time of our lives. Thank you for a great summer!

See you in 2025!!

Elijah and Tia

August 11, 2024

What a weekend!

For our last Friday night, we had the traditional CIT/10-year milestone service. Our oldest campers reflected on their time at camp as they are about to transition to the next stage of their camp life cycle. The CITs are joined by everyone at camp who has been at Wahanowin for 10+ years. It was, as always, a beautiful and emotional service. It is so heartwarming to hear how deeply Wahanowin has impacted the lives of so many people. The service finishes off with a slide show of photos of all campers and staff who achieved their 5 and 10-year milestones at camp this year. This year, we are grateful to have honoured the following recipients.

10 Years: Sienna Glowinsky, Olivia Fuss, Harrison Perlmutar, Jenna Weir and Max Siegel.

5 Years: Maya Altman, Callie Bloom, Talia Collis, Ben Farbman, Gabby Farbman, Myles Gold, Hailey Goldberg, Addison Goldman, GG Green, Jessica Green, Josh Harris, Sammie Isaac, Eden Luft, Markus Luft, Zack Marcovici, Mikayla Sandler, Matti Sher, Kassidy Silverberg, Mayah Silverman, Owen Salughter, Tori Stacey, Charleigh Wade, Romy Weizmann, Richard Coffey, Jordana Ross, and Jack Wiener.

After the service, we celebrated with a party for all the new 10-year recipients along with everyone else who has been at Wahanowin for more than 10 years. It’s a tradition at the party to open a time capsule that was created 10 years earlier. Opening and sharing photos and letters from 2015 was a blast.

On Saturday, we welcomed a large group of campers for our Wahano-One day. What’s really cool is that many of our 10-year recipients vividly recall their Wahano-One day and how much that influenced their decision to make Wahanowin their summer home. This year’s group had a blast. They got to experience the best of camp led by our incredible staff and CITs. Even some of our PG campers joined in to help. It’s really cool to think that those PG campers will likely be staff for the Wahano-One kids one day. The camp life cycle is awesome. A highlight for us was the spontaneous dance party that broke out during lunch. Love it!

On Saturday night, we gathered in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for the staff’s production of The Addams Family. What a fun show! It was a perfect way to end our 2024 theatre season.

Tonight is the finale of Survivor. Stay tuned to learn who is the 2024 ultimate survivor!

We are going to make the best of the few days we have left of Summer 2024 at Waha.

August 7, 2024

We’ve got a big final week coming up.

Team Spotify edged out Team Apple Music in the Grad/PG Colour War. It was a memorable 2 days of competition for the campers and staff. There were so many great moments, but the songs, dances and cheers were a highlight for many.

On Monday, the LTP unit had a great day at the Slash On Water Park in Barrie.

We are welcoming a number of guests to camp this week. First, we have a group of campers from the Reena Foundation who will be with us for 5 days. We have proudly partnered with Reena for many years now. To learn more about the Reena Foundation, check out this link – https://reena.org/about/. A highlight of our CIT program is that our CITS have an opportunity to work with and learn from the Reena campers.

Second, we are welcoming a large group from Green Acres Day Camp for an overnight experience to give these young campers a taste of overnight camp life at Waha.

Our Kids of Courage campers from Israel worked their magic to win this week’s Clean Up awards. The celebrations continue for them!!!

Wahanowin Survivor (yes, like the reality TV show) has become a legendary program at camp. Campers in the Alumni, LTP and CIT units compete to become the ultimate survivor. They participate in 3 days of games, challenges and team councils while living in tents at a top-secret location in camp. They return to the ‘mainland’ for some of their challenges which culminates in the finale before the whole camp in the theatre. We all get to watch the video of what unfolded during the competition and witness the live final vote. This year’s game had an incredible plot twist with the introduction of a PG camper into the game for the first time ever. More news on Survivor to come!

Today, we said goodbye to our 6 week and August two week campers. We will miss them!

So much goes on at Wahanowin!

More news to come…

August 4, 2024

10 days left. Ugh!

With the end of the camp summer approaching, the Seniors reminded us in their service theme to ‘hold onto every moment’. Singing songs like Billy Joel’s This is The Time, we all took a moment to reflect on how so many little moments at Wahanowin are with us our whole lives.

The two-day Grad/PG Colour War is underway. Team Spotify is battling Team Apple Music to see who will take over the music industry. The competition even flows into meals where the campers had an epic dance off at lunch today.

On Thursday, the BB/Bear, Eagles and Seniors got the bubbles flowing at our annual Foam Dance Party. After dinner, the grove joined in and had their own bubble fest which was capped off with pizza bagels for special snack. This is always a summer fave.

The CITS are on “CIT Day Off” today at the local cinema enjoying Despicable Me 4.

While we have less than two weeks to go, some of the best programs are still to come!

Lots more news to come.

August 1, 2024

Today we needed to Beat the Heat so we celebrated with a Beach Day! The sun was hot, the water was calm and the whole camp stayed refreshed in Lake Couchiching.

All our water activities were open for all campers. To make things fun, campers and staff enjoyed our awesome floating smoothie bar where delicious blends of tropical fruits were served throughout the day. To cap things off, dinner was a beach front BBQ of burgers and dogs. What a perfect day!

Tomorrow, we have several teams competing in intercamp competitions at Camp Manitou. Campers will face off on the hockey rink, on the basketball courts and some will even compete in the water. We can’t wait to meet our friends at Manitou.

An epic 3-day Alumni/LTP Colour War finished a couple nights ago with Team Red declared the winner. It’s so inspiring to see how hard these 14- and 15-year-old campers dedicate themselves throughout the 3 competitions. A highlight this year was the 12-hour treasure hunt where campers battled through heat, rain and challenging clues.

Rehearsals are ongoing for Camp Rock which is one of the first ever camp wide shows. We can’t wait to see it on Saturday night.

15 campers return tomorrow from the 3-day all-star canoe trip in Algonquin Park. We can’t wait to hear their stories!

Tonight is our Foam Party social. A perfect end to a perfect day!

We are continuing to life our best lives up here at camp!

July 28, 2024

Nothing beats the summer sun! The weather continues to be perfect up here on Lake Couchiching.

Friday was the PG service where we celebrated the theme of being Camp Connected. We heard so many stories during the service of campers and staff who met at Wahanowin years ago and how their camp memories are foundational to those friendships.

Grease was the word last night in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre with the Alumni/LTP Unit presenting their production, focusing on the lives of the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies.

After the show, the Alumni and LTP unit began their traditional 3-day Colour War, led by camper captains selected from each unit. This year’s theme relates to Pixar’s production of CARS!

The entire camp celebrated last night’s production of Grease with a sleep in and brunch featuring Chef Adam’s classic Waffles! So delish.

Today was Sunday Funday where campers get to choose their activities for the morning. It’s a great way to break up the traditional programming day.

At changeover, we welcomed a group of campers and staff from Kids of Courage for the month. These campers from Israel have family members who were impacted by war. We are so grateful to support this program. The campers are having a phenomenal time!

This week, we have campers of all ages heading out for an epic 3-day canoe trip in Algonquin Park.

There are several legendary camp programs coming up in the next few days. We can’t wait to tell you more!

July 24, 2024

Dear Wahanowin Families,

Second month!!! Today marks the unofficial halfway point of summer 2024. Our staff are refreshed and excited for this new beginning. It was so nice to welcome new faces to camp today!

Our new campers have seamlessly settled into their cabins. That’s one of the best things about camp – the ease with which new campers become part of our community.

Dinner tonight was a Chef Adam special! Indoor BBQ – chicken, grilled salami and the usual amazing salad bar.

All our units are having their own individual evening programs tonight to give them a chance to spend time getting to know our new campers. We can’t wait for our first full programming day of second month tomorrow! The weather looks to be amazing all week!!

It’s a bittersweet day because we also had to say goodbye to our first month campers. First month had the perfect ending with the traditional camp wide Air Band competitions.

It’s the kind of night that you must see to believe. Think of the enthusiasm of a World Cup soccer match. Then multiply it by 7 units. Our new campers have so much to look forward to!

Each unit spends hours and hours rehearsing and prepping for the big night. The camp comes to dinner in their unit colours.  And it’s a dinner like no other. The cheering begins as they enter the Dining Hall and doesn’t stop until the end of dinner. It’s magical.

Once the camp gets to the theatre, the energy goes to a whole new level. WOW! The creativity and talent of our campers and staff is mesmerizing; the noise level is earth shattering; the uninhibited joy is just awesome. But what sets this night apart for us is the enthusiastic support the entire camp shows for every unit’s performance. Every camper gets to feel like a star. It’s a ‘pinch me’ moment for a Camp Director.

We look forward to sharing many more highlight moments with you during second month!

The fun continues here at Waha!

Continue to follow our blog updates throughout the summer!

Elijah and Tia

July 21, 2024

What a great Visitor’s Day we had yesterday! We loved welcoming our families into our summer home to catch up with loved ones and to see first-hand all the ways they have grown. The perfect weather didn’t hurt either. We couldn’t have asked for a better day.

We appreciate that saying goodbye can be emotional, especially for the younger campers. Trust us, any sadness was quickly replaced with the excitement of having to get ready for Wahanoween – the camp wide costume and candy party. Who doesn’t like Halloween in the summertime?!! Our Main Camp campers dressed up in cool and creative costumes and went trick or treating to each cabin in the grove where the older campers handed out candy. It was adorable.

The Alumni unit hosted this week’s service on Friday night. Their theme was ‘I Believe.’  The campers reminisced on the camp successes and talk about overcoming challenging with the help of fellow campers and staff. Of course, the night was filled with a singalong to some of Waha’s greatest summer hits.

Immediately after the service, we were entertained by the Song of the Week which is curated each week by our own superstar, Jenna Weir. This week’s song was exceptionally performed by a group of our staff.

Tonight was the Wahanowin talent show where campers and staff from every unit show off their unique skills for the camp. Some of the highlights included tap dancing, a Backstreet boys remake by a group of staff and the introduction of our Alumni/LTP…GREASE! We can’t wait!!!

We have 2 full action-packed days before the sun sets on first month at Camp Waha.

July 17, 2024

There is something that feels so comfy about being in the middle of the summer. The warm summer breezes, the perfect sunsets and the laughter throughout camp. It’s perfect.

While the highways in Toronto were submerged in water on Tuesday and many homes experienced flooding and power outages, we somehow escaped with only a light rain.

After our sleep in and brunch on Monday, we held our weekly Fun Day. It’s normally Sunday Fun Day but this week was a special Monday Fun Day. It’s a change from our normal programming days. Instead of travelling with their cabins, campers get to choose their own activities!

Yesterday, we hosted the annual Dance intercamp in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre where campers from 9 different camps competed in the junior and senior divisions. While the Wahanowin teams didn’t win, their dances were our favourites and had the whole theatre cheering. We’re very proud of our campers; they worked tirelessly on their routines.

The clean-up prize for this week’s super-duper clean up was Starbucks for the whole cabin. As you can imagine, the entire camp was spotless. Campers even left notes to welcome us to their cabins. It was so cute! In a rare victory for our oldest campers, the LTP girls had the cleanest cabin and celebrated their victory with delicious lattes.

Speaking of coffee, today is Tim’s camp day where all proceeds from Tim Horton’s purchasers are being donated to Tim’s Camps, which help underserved youth across North America. To show our support, we bought Tim’s for all our staff and CITs.

The Grad/PG/Alumni canoe trip left this morning. The campers will be heading out to Algonquin Park where they will be seeing some of the best sites in all of Ontario.

The BBs/Bears/Eagles and Seniors had their first dance of the summer which was hosted by Bounce Entertainment. The campers had a blast dancing and singing the night away!

The CIT unit began their second rotations today. They alternate between being with a cabin throughout the day and helping out at a specialty area.

Visitor’s Day prep is underway! We can’t wait to see you this Saturday.

July 14, 2024

What a weekend!

Saturday was a beautiful day capped off by the BB/Bear and Eagle 5-star production of Breaking Bad in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre. Elijah and Tia gave it two thumbs up! (and so did everyone else!)

Our post show celebratory sleep in and brunch had to wait another day because immediately after the play the camp was surprised with the 23^rd annual Olympiad opening ceremonies. Campers are forever on Team Waha or Team Nowin, which ensures all competitors are fiercely loyal to their team.

The opening ceremonies is always one of the most breathtaking and spine-tingling nights at camp – the staff Olympians guide the camp through a torch lit path where the Wahanowin origin story is told. The ceremony culminates with the lighting of the Olympic rings and an epic fireworks show. This year’s teams are being led by staff captains Matthew Allen & Jemima Love for Team Waha and Neta Schur and Meeka Daniels for Team Nowin.

The Olympiad day is filled with games and competitions for all campers. One of the highlights is when the camp gathers around the flagpole for the unit Tug O War and staff “Wahano-Push.” The afternoon event is the epic marathon baton race where campers and staff participate in over 50 games and challenges which finishes with the legendary fire building competition. Team Waha edged out Nowin in the Tug O War and, in an epic back and forth battle, Team Nowin’s fire was the first to burn the rope!

Tonight, the entire camp gathers in the theatre for evening program in what is always one of the most spirited nights. The teams participate in 3 classic competitions – the song (written by each team the day of the event), the plaque and the dance. The talent at Wahanowin is remarkable. We can’t wait to be-blown away by the camp’s sprit and creativity.

In the end, there can only be one winner. We hear it is currently one of the most narrow point differentials of all time. Stay tuned for the next blog post to hear who took home the coveted trophy!

And finally, tomorrow, we get that well deserved sleep in and brunch!!!

July 12, 2024

Has it already been over two weeks? We have so much to look forward to even though Summer 2024 has been a blast so far.

Sadly, we said goodbye to our two-week campers yesterday. We miss them and can’t wait to see them next summer.

Tonight’s service was led by the Grad’s. Their theme was Memories which is a perfect topic to reflect on at camp. We always hear from people how camp was the best time of their lives. What’s amazing is that we spend so little time here at camp, yet the memories have this outsized impact for the rest of our lives. Only at camp.

The Senior Unit got back today from their fun packed two-day canoe trip in Algonquin Park. For many of the campers, the highlight of the trip was paddling across Canoe Lake and the beautiful Algonquin sunsets.

Our campers from Mexico had a great time exploring Niagara Falls on Tuesday and even got to take a ride on the Maid of the Mist!

The W tournament was a huge success. While Wahanowin didn’t bring home any trophies this year, we are immensely proud of our teams for their hard work and dedication.

The Grove had a social on Wednesday night hosted by the dynamic group at Bounce Entertainment. The evening was capped off by Pizza Pockets which remains one of Chef Adam’s most popular snacks.

Our dance team is hard at work rehearsing for the upcoming Dance Intercamp which, as always, is hosted at Wahanowin. It’s always a highlight of the summer. We get to welcome 8 competing camps to our beautiful theatre.

There was a Super-Duper Cabin Clean up with the winning cabin, Cabin 42, getting QUADURUPLE TUCK!!!!! As you can imagine, the cabins were particularly clean for that contest. Seems we may need to offer it up again…we’re due for another clean!

Tomorrow night we’ll be back in the theatre for the BB/Bear/Eagle production of Breaking Bad. An original script written by our theatre team. Saturday nights in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre are the best!

We don’t get a lot of time at camp, but we all make the most of it.

July 9, 2024

The fun has been non-stop at camp and the weather has been phenomenal.

On Friday night, the LTP unit, together with their BB/Bear & Eagle buddies hosted the service. This week’s theme was friendship. It’s really sweet to see how fast the buddies have all bonded with each other.

It was a busy weekend of hosting many Waha warm up campers. Jack Rosenbaum led our Weekender program where 40 campers joined us for a 4-day taste of Wahanowin. Many former head staff joined our team as staff to help give the Weekender campers a magical experience. The weekenders got to try every activity at camp and several special programs, including their own private horse and pony rides.

We also hosted Waha alum, Josh Benzacar, Jordan and Adam Epstein and their families for the weekend. It was heartwarming for the alumni to share their childhood summer home with their awesome kids.

On Saturday, the Senior unit blew us away with their production of The Wizard of Oz. We laughed and sang along as we marched down the Yellow Brick Road. The Seniors set a high bar for the other units. The show was followed by our traditional Sunday sleep in and brunch. We’re loving the brunch waffle station!

The BB/Bear and Eagle Unit is already working on their show. This Saturday will be another great night in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre.

The BB/Bear and Eagles recently returned from their cool overnight adventure at Balsam Lake. The highlight of the overnight was learning to cook over the fire with the Canoe Trippers.

Today is the annual W Tournament hosted at Wahanowin. We are hosting Northland, Winnebagoe and Timberlane in under 14 and under 16 girls and boys baseball. Our teams have been working hard to bring the W Tourney trophy back to where it belongs!

Tonight, the BB/Bears/Eagles and Seniors will be participating in one of our favourite programs: Midnight Madness (which actually takes place at 10pm). After Evening Program, the main camp campers will return to their cabins where their staff will surprise them with the news about the extra special program. The campers will be led to the top-secret Midnight Madness location that will be transformed into a Magical Mystery Tour. This is always a Waha highlight of the summer.

So much goes on at Wahanowin!!

July 4, 2024

Lots of amazing stuff is happening at Wahanowin! They say a day at camp is like seven days in the city. Things move super-fast here. The most gratifying part of the pace of life at camp is to see how fast cabin bonding happens. Even for new campers; it feels like they have always been part of the Wahanowin family.

The LTP unit returned from their hiking trip. The campers and staff had a fantastic time exploring Killbear Provincial Park, including the amazing cliffs and sunsets.

Last night, the Grads had a delicious cookout for their evening program – all the campfire classics were on the menu!

The CITS are about to return from the annual 2-day white water rafting trip on the Ottawa River. This trip has been a CIT tradition for more than 40 years. As always, the CITS had a blast.

Rehearsals for the Senior production of The Wizard of Oz are continuing and word on the street is that the Seniors are going to blow the camp away with their show on Saturday night. Can’t wait!

The PG boys enjoyed a trip around Lake Couchiching today on the newly renovated Waha princess.

Today marked the beginning of the staff baseball league, the WSBL. It was a sold-out crowd!!

Grilled cheese was on the menu for lunch. Huge win!!! And tonight, we have our weekly Dinner on the Green where the camp enjoys an outdoor BBQ of burgers, hot dogs, chips and veggies!

Tomorrow is the first camp wide program of the summer: Carnival! Campers and staff gather in main camp to enjoy giant inflatable games/challenges, go for pony rides and enjoy classic carnival cuisine – popcorn, cotton candy, sno-cones and all the fixins’

We are loving the summer of 2024!

July 1, 2024

And we’re off!!! Sure, it’s been a little rainy and cold but you would never know it from the enthusiasm throughout camp.

It’s a special tradition at Waha for the camp to dress in whites on Friday night with the oldest campers leading a procession down to the Dining Hall as the whole camp gatherered for Chef Adam’s traditional Friday night meal of chicken, potatoes and soup. After dinner, we gathered in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for the head staff service. The theme of the service was Gratitude. Many members of the head staff team discussed how grateful they are to have the opportunity to impact the lives of our campers and staff this summer.

The first unit show of the summer is The Wizard of Oz which will be presented by the Senior unit this Saturday night. Rehearsals are underway and we can’t wait to see the Senior’s take on this classic show.

One of the most meaningful programs for us is the BB/Bear/Eagle and LTP buddy program. LTP campers are paired with campers from the BB/Bear/Eagle Units where they get to spend time and learn from each other. The first Buddy Program of the season was the annual picnic. It’s so heartwarming to see our oldest and youngest campers getting a chance to bond.

The LTPs left for their hiking trip today, where they will camp and hike in one of the most picturesque trails in all of Ontario.

The sun has returned for Canada Day where the camp is dressed in a sea of red. As a surprise treat for this special day, campers and staff enjoyed a visit from the Beaver Tail truck. Yumm!!!!!

As we look out of the office, we see campers everywhere at activity areas, laughing and working on their skills. We’re about to challenge some Grads to a game of pickle ball!

It’s been an incredible start to the summer and we look forward to sharing regular updates with you.

June 27, 2024

Dear Wahanowin Families,

Waha 2024 has officially begun!! It was so amazing to see the busses roll into camp and watch camper after camper after camper step off with the biggest smiles on their faces.

We had the most perfect day of weather for arrival day – sun, light breeze and a very calm Couchiching. After some time to meet counsellors and cabinmates and settle in, we dined on Chef Adam’s traditional (and famous!) opening day pasta rotini. And then we gathered together as a camp for the first time in the Phyllis Weisfeld Theatre for Opening Ceremonies. Units in unit colours, songs and cheers. We are back! And we are vibing!

The day would not have been complete without a magical Wahanowin sunset. The colours were amazing, and it was the most incredible welcome to Waha 2024.

We cannot tell you how excited we are to see the dining hall filled with smiling faces and the cabins come alive as our campers’ homes for the summer.

This is truly what we live for. Today. Seeing the kids light up and feeling their anticipation and excitement for all the amazingness that is to come. For us, and for them, camp is everything.

We can’t wait for tomorrow!

Elijah & Tia

PS: We’re going to be updating the NEWSLETTERS on our website every few days, so you can follow along on all the amazing things happening during Waha 2024.