Fork & Flame
A culinary weekend with Chef Michael Smith
February 20-21, 2026 | Deerhurst Resort, Muskoka
Ignite your senses this winter at Fork & Flame, an immersive culinary weekend celebrating the bold, rustic flavours of wood, fire and smoke. For its third year in a row, Deerhurst Resort is thrilled to welcome back Chef Michael Smith, one of Canada’s most beloved chefs and best-selling authors, for an unforgettable two-day experience inspired by his new book Wood, Fire and Smoke.
Set against the natural beauty of Muskoka in the winter, this exclusive event blends chef-driven creativity, interactive dining, and warm fireside moments into a truly one-of-a-kind escape.
From full weekend packages to flexible event-only tickets, Fork & Flame offers a variety of ways to enjoy this chef-led culinary experience in Muskoka. Review the options below to see what’s included and choose the one that’s right for you.
The full Fork & Flame getaway.
Perfect for guests who want the complete culinary escape with Chef Michael Smith, paired with a cozy Muskoka winter stay.
Includes:
- Two nights accommodations
- Friday evening Welcome Reception
- Saturday Book Signing
- Saturday Fireside Chat
- Saturday Cocktail Reception
- Saturday Interactive Plated Dinner Party
- Access to resort amenities and winter activities
Event only Tickets
Join the culinary celebration—no stay required.
Includes:
- Friday evening Welcome Reception
- Saturday Book Signing
- Saturday Fireside Chat
- Saturday Cocktail Reception
- Saturday Interactive Plated Dinner Party
- Access to resort amenities and winter activities
Friday Night Only Ticket
Experience the opening night of Fork & Flame.
Includes:
- Friday “Cook the Book” Welcome Reception
- Signature themed food stations
- Live music throughout the evening
Saturday Night Only Ticket
The signature Fork & Flame dining experience.
Includes:
- Saturday Cocktail Reception
- Saturday Interactive Plated Dinner with Chef Michael Smith
Friday, February 20
7:00pm – 9:00pm | Welcome Reception: “Cook the Book”
Kick off the weekend with a flavour-forward standing marché reception inspired by Wood, Fire and Smoke. Wander through curated food stations showcasing open-flame cooking, smoky profiles, and Chef Michael Smith’s signature approach to seasonal ingredients. Enjoy live music and a chance to meet fellow food lovers in a relaxed, Muskoka-casual atmosphere.
Saturday, February 21
Time TBC | Book Signing
Guests are invited to bring their own copy of Wood, Fire and Smoke or any of Chef Michael Smith’s favourite cookbooks for personal signing. An excellent opportunity to meet the chef and add a memorable keepsake to your collection.
Time TBC | Fireside Chat: The Mind of a Chef
Settle in for a warm and insightful discussion with Chef Michael Smith and Nick, as they dive into the worlds of ferments, foraging, fire, and the creative philosophy behind modern wood-fired cuisine. This intimate conversation is a favourite part of the weekend every year.
6:00pm | Cocktail Reception
Ease into the evening with a pre-dinner cocktail reception—a simple, elegant way to set the tone before dinner. Sip and socialize – beverages available for purchase as you get ready for the night’s signature culinary experience.
7:00pm | Interactive Plated Dinner Party
The signature event of the weekend. Experience a multi-course, interactive plated dinner. Chef Michael Smith will guide guests through the inspiration, techniques, and story behind each dish – crafted exclusively for Fork & Flame. Please note: This is a party-style seating with no reserved or pre-selected seats, encouraging a lively, social dining experience.
Moments from Past Chef Michael Smith Weekends
