Family Day 2025 in St. Catharines and Surrounding Areas: A Comprehensive Guide
Celebrate Family Day in St. Catharines and the surrounding areas with a weekend full of fun, adventure, and bonding moments. Whether you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities, interactive arts and culture experiences, or a relaxing family day out, there’s something for everyone. Check out this guide to plan your perfect Family Day 2025!
1. First Ontario Performing Arts Centre: Family Day Celebrations
- Date & Time: Monday, February 17, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 250 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines
- Highlights:
- 🎨 Arts Hive by The Willow Arts Community – A creative space for kids and families to explore arts and crafts.
- 🖼️ Puppet-making with Carousel Players – Hands-on puppet creation for little ones.
- 📚 Story Sessions celebrating Black narratives.
- 💃 Bollywood Dance Workshop – Get the whole family dancing with a fun and energetic Bollywood-style class.
- 🎭 Interactive Performances such as “TWEET TWEET!” and “Samajam: YOU are the Show.”
- 🎬 Family Movie Experience – Screening of Shrek, complete with interactive fun.
- Tip: Some activities are free, but others require tickets. Be sure to check the official website for details.
2. Niagara Family Fun Day
- Date & Time: Saturday, February 15, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Merritton Lions Club, St. Catharines
- Highlights:
- 🤹♂️ Vendor and Entertainment Fair – Explore 100 tables featuring local vendors, young entrepreneurs, and entertainers.
- 🎶 Live Performances – Local talent performing throughout the day.
- 🧁 Food and Treats – Snack on goodies from various food vendors.
3. St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre
- Date & Time: Open daily | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: 1932 Welland Canals Parkway, St. Catharines
- Highlights:
- ⛓️ Explore Local History – Learn about St. Catharines rich industrial history and the famous Welland Canal.
- 🏒 Lacrosse Hall of Fame – Discover Canada’s beloved sport of lacrosse through interactive exhibits.
- 🛠️ Hands-on Discovery – Participate in family-friendly educational programs.
- Tip: Admission is by donation, and sensory-friendly spaces are available for families.
4. Outdoor Adventures: Fun for All Ages
- Skating and Swimming:
- ⛸️ Public Skating at Seymour-Hannah Sports Centre and Bill Burgoyne Arena.
- 🌊 Leisure Swimming at St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre (Free on Family Day!).
- Winter Fun:
- 🏞️ Winter Hikes at Short Hills Provincial Park or Morningstar Mill.
- 🛷 Tobogganing at popular spots like Ontario Jaycee Garden Park and Burgoyne Woods Park.
- Tip: Pre-registration for swimming and skating sessions is recommended to secure a spot. Visit ActiveSTC for more details.
5. Niagara Parks: Family Day Birding Open House
- Date: Monday, February 17, 2025
- Location: Niagara Glen Nature Centre, Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Highlights:
- 🦅 Birdwatching Excursion – Learn about local birds and their habitats, with expert guides leading the way.
- Tip: Be sure to dress warmly and bring binoculars for the full experience. For more info, visit the Niagara Parks website.
6. Clifton Hill Attractions: A Day of Fun in Niagara Falls
- Highlights:
- 🎡 Niagara SkyWheel – Ride the giant Ferris wheel for stunning views of Niagara Falls.
- 👻 Zombie Attack & Ghost Blasters Dark Ride – Thrilling experiences for brave families.
- 🍦 Fun Pass – Bundle access to several attractions (including Ripley’s Believe It or Not!) at a discounted price.
- Tip: Family Day weekend is busy, so get there early to avoid crowds. Check the Clifton Hill website for details.
Additional Tips for a Memorable Family Day
- Plan Ahead: Confirm event details and availability by checking online or calling ahead.
- Dress Warmly: Many events are outdoors, so bundle up for winter adventures.
- Be Flexible: Some events may have limited spots, so have a backup plan just in case!
With these activities, your Family Day in St. Catharines is sure to be filled with laughter, memories, and plenty of fun. Make sure to check the event specifics in advance, and most importantly, enjoy the quality time with your loved ones!
FAQs for Family Day in St. Catharines 2025
What events are happening on Family Day in St. Catharines?
There are various events, including arts and performances at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Niagara Family Fun Day, and outdoor adventures at Short Hills Provincial Park.
Are there free events for Family Day in St. Catharines?
Yes! Many events, such as the arts activities at the FirstOntario PAC and leisure swimming at Kiwanis Aquatics Centre are free.
Where can I go for outdoor activities on Family Day?
You can go hiking at Morningstar Mill, skating at Seymour-Hannah Sports Centre, or birdwatching at Niagara Glen Nature Centre.
What are some indoor Family Day activities in St. Catharines?
Visit the St. Catharines Museum, enjoy interactive performances at the FirstOntario PAC, or explore fun attractions at Clifton Hill.
What’s open and closed on Family Day 2025 in St. Catharines?
Many attractions remain open, but government offices and some businesses may be closed. For a full list, check Niagara This Week.
