5 Things to do on Family Day Weekend
Ontario is celebrating Family Day for only the ninth time, but it already feels like a revered tradition. There are so many kid-friendly activities for the long weekend that choosing can be tricky. Our Deal Experts have narrowed it down to a few easy -- and inexpensive -- options.
EVENTS
Our top pick: Family Fun Fest in Toronto ($5 & up; Saturday, Feb. 13). Expect more than 30 rides and attractions spread over 30,000 square feet inside a Downsview Park film studio. Doo-Doo the Clown provides the entertainment; parents may remember his role in the hit Adam Sandler movie Billy Madison. Travelzoo members save more than 35%.
Honourable mentions: Kids Fest in Mississauga ($5 & up; Saturday, Feb. 13) and Braden's Hot Chocolate Festival near Hamilton (Free; Monday, Feb. 15)
DAYS OUT
Our top pick: Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa ($15; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15). This is possibly one the nation's most spectacular museums; fun artifacts and vividly presented displays keep things interesting for young ones. A special science and technology-focused exhibit featuring Thomas the Tank Engine recently opened, and Travelzoo members get free admission to an IMAX show.
Honourable mention: Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park near Oshawa ($7; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15)
LIVE SHOWS
Our top pick: Anything Goes at the Lower Ossington Theatre in Toronto ($30; two shows on Saturday, Feb. 13; matinee only on Sunday, Feb. 14). Cole Porter's music and lyrics are basically timeless, and a love story set aboard an ocean liner complete with dancing sailors carries great all-ages appeal. Travelzoo members save $20.
Honourable mentions: Magicians Greg Frewin and Edward Stone in Niagara Falls ($22-$25; Saturday, Feb. 13); Fancy Nancy the Musical in Toronto ($18 & up; matinees on Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 13-14)
SKIING
Our top pick: A day on the slopes at Hockley Valley Resort ($28; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15). A warm winter has meant a late start to the season, but all runs are now open to snow-starved GTA dwellers. On the Saturday, kids can partake in off-slope activities with names like "Cupcake Boss" and "Princess Manicures". Travelzoo members save 40%.
Honourable mention: Skyloft Resort near Oshawa ($20 & up; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15).
JUST FOR KIDS
Our top pick: A day of fun and games in Niagara Falls. There's no shortage of guilty pleasures to choose from, but to get the best bang for your buck, we recommend buying a bundle for either Niagara Falls Fun Zone or Captain Jack's Pirate Cove ($18-$19; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15). They both come with a pile of arcade tokens, activities like mini golf and mirror mazes, and dining credits.
Honourable mentions: Jellybeenz indoor playground in Brampton ($12; Saturday-Monday, Feb. 13-15) and Colour With Me Art Studio classes in Toronto or Markham ($29; Saturday, Feb. 13 and Monday, Feb. 15).
What will you be doing for Family Day weekend? Let us know in the comments below.