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Knapsack Signature Experience Program

Explore Kawartha Lakes

Kawartha Lakes is full of experiences waiting to be explored. From charming towns and villages to unique accommodations, dining, and year-round activities, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip with everything you need on the Explore Kawartha Lakes tourism website.

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Kawartha Lakes Knapsack Signature Experience Program

Do you have a new or existing tourism idea that could become a Kawartha Lakes Signature Experience? The Knapsack Signature Experience Program can help turn your idea into a memorable visitor attraction.

About Knapsack
Knapsack is the City of Kawartha Lakes’ experiential tourism training and recognition program. It helps tourism businesses create and share unforgettable moments by leveraging what makes them—and the region—unique.

The program supports the development of new experiences, recognizes excellence, and promotes standout offerings. Graduates gain regional, provincial, and national attention for delivering transformative experiences while sharing recognition with peers committed to best-in-class tourism.

What is a Signature Experience?
A signature experience is highly anticipated, memorable, and delivered by a skilled, knowledgeable host with a strong connection to the local community. Being “signature” means it is among the best offerings and part of a curated collection of exceptional experiences.

Other Signature Experience Programs

  • Destination Canada: Showcases over 200 once-in-a-lifetime experiences across the country.

  • Destination Ontario: Highlights world-class experiences curated across Ontario, including many Canadian Signature Experiences.


  • Create economic opportunities through tourism in Kawartha Lakes
  • Build strong partnerships with innovative, engaged tourism operators
  • Mentor operators to leverage unique attributes of their business and the region
  • Develop 2–3 new signature experiences each year to attract visitors
  • Establish program parameters and requirements for operator participation
  • Gain recognition for the region and deliver emotional connections through tourism
  • Support the creation of high-quality, memorable, authentic experiences
  • Focus on small-group, high-yield experiences rather than mass-market offers

2026 Program Intake

The 2026 Knapsack Signature Experience Program opens in January 2026.

Knapsack Graduates and Signature Experiences

Learn about past Knapsack Graduates and book one of the Kawartha Lakes Signature Experiences on the Explore Kawartha Lakes tourism website.


Supporting Tourism in Kawartha Lakes

Connect with Laurie McCarthy, Economic Development Officer - Tourism

How Laurie Can Help:

  • I can help your business expand and select a site
  • Access local talent & training
  • Signature Experience Program
  • Understand available grants & incentives

Telephone: 705-324-9411 extension 1233
Toll Free: 1-866-397-6673
Email Laurie

Contact Us

Kawartha Lakes 
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337

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