With no shortage of things to do on Family Day, your only problem will be narrowing down your options. Barrie and the surrounding areas have all kinds of activities happening this weekend in celebration of Family day and many of them are free!
Outdoor Family Day Activities In Barrie And Area
Barrie and surrounding areas have plenty of events and activities planned to keep you busy this Family Day (Monday, February 19, 2024). Here’s what you need to know:
Barrie's Family Day Winter Adventure
The City of Barrie is hosting a Family Day event from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Barrie Community Sports Complex (2100 Nursery Road, Midhurst). The event offers FREE outdoor activities including:
- Axe throwing (ages 10+)
- Broomball
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides
- Tobogganing (bring your own sled)
- Kicksledding
- Snowshoeing
- And more
When you're ready to take a break from the cold, warm up by the bonfire or make some crafts.
Nature In Winter
On February 17 you can head over to Sunnidale Park for the Nature In Winter Pop-Up. While there, you can learn about local animals, birdwatch, snowshoe, hands on activities about owls and other birds, and much more.
You can also join in on Forest Bathing with Beth to learn about the benefits of nature in health. Sessions will take place at 11 AM and 12 PM. Registration is required.
Sugar Bush Family Day
The 13th Annual Sugar Bush Family Day event, hosted by Friends of Sugarbush, promises a delightful day packed with activities. Head over for thrilling cardboard toboggan races (register via email at friendsofsugarbush@gmail.com), skating, cozy campfires, winter games, wagon rides, and more!
The event will be at Sweetwater Park from 11 AM to 3 PM.
Free Fishing
There are only 4 times a year you can fish in Ontario without a license and this weekend is one of them. Enjoy fishing all weekend long without having to go get a permit to do so.
But remember, you still need to follow a few rules including:
- Conservation licence catch limits
- Size limits and sanctuaries
- Fishing regulations
If you need equipment, take advantage of the TackleShare program through the Barrie Public Library or other loaner sites.
Friday Harbour Family Day Fun
Friday Harbour will be having a fun Family Day experience this weekend. Activities include ice skating in the Piazza, live entertainment, and a visit from Olaf. Once you're ready to warm up, you can head to the chalet cabins for some treat or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and handcrafted cocktails in the warming lounges.
Family Day in Wasaga Beach
This weekend, Wasaga Beach is your destination for non-stop entertainment and excitement! On Saturday, don't miss the exhilarating SuperDogs show, a fast-paced and interactive experience, happening for free at the RecPlex.
Then, on Sunday, kids can showcase their skills in a Hockey Skills Competition (pre-register by emailing hockeycircuitnorth@gmail.com), indulge in the lively Jeremy and Jazzy show, and be mesmerized by a magical performance starring Edlluision.
Hot Cocoa Trail
Warm up before your day of family fun with delicious hot chocolate from February 17 to 18.
The Downtown Hot Cocoa Trail will be running for just two more weekends until the end of the month. There are over 25 participating locations with unique takes on hot chocolate and delicious treats.
As an added bonus, every purchase of hot chocolate at any of the participating locations will include the chance to win a $250 Downtown Barrie prize pack!
Family Day Fun At Horseshoe Valley
Horseshoe Valley is celebrating Family Day all weekend long. Enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures every day of the weekend.
On February 19, families can also take in a live Sonshine & Broccoli performance.
Indoor Family Day Activities In Barrie
If you're looking for indoor fun, we've got you covered ...
Barrie Rec Centres
All three recreation centres (Allendale Rec Centre, East Bayfield Rec Centre and Peggy Hill Team Community Centre) will offer a variety of drop-in activities from 6 AM to 9 PM on Family Day. Activities include:
- Fitness classes
- Open swim
- Family Day swim
- Hockey
- And more ...
To view the schedule, visit barrie.ca.
MacLaren Art Centre
This Family Day, MacLaren Art Centre is hosting a drop in art session. Family's will be able to create fun and colourful projects that celebrate their family and a strong sense of self.
The free event takes place from 11 AM to 2 PM.
Family Day Fun In East Gwillimbury
From 10 AM to 1 PM, head to the East Gwillimbury Sports Complex a day of Family Fun.
The event will include a free skate, face painting, 3 on 3 hockey tournament, music, food and so much more.
Services In Barrie That Will Be Affected By Family Day
- Barrie Transit will operate according to the regular Sunday service schedule. Visit myridebarrie.ca for details.
- Curbside Collection: There will be no garbage, organics, or recycling collection on Family Day in Barrie. Collection during the week of this holiday will occur ONE day later for the remainder of the week. Visit www.barrie.ca/CurbsideCollection for details.
- City Hall will be closed.
- Parking: Downtown parking (on-street and lots) is free on all statutory holidays. Waterfront parking is enforced 24/7/365; residents must display their permits and visitors are required to pay $10/hour (daily maximum: $50). Visit www.barrie.ca/Parking for details.
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