BY: JESSICA BEUKER
Monday, February 20 is Family Day and it’s a national holiday here in Canada. It’s not just any long weekend though; it’s a chance to spend quality time with your loved ones doing fun activities that bring everyone together. Haven’t got a clue what to do? Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by the possibilities? Either way, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best Family Day activities to take your kids to (or yourself if you don’t have kids).
1. Dinner and a Movie
This might seem like a bland and obvious choice for an adult, but it’s not very often that a kid gets to go out for a fancy dinner, followed by a movie at the theatre. Have them get dressed up beforehand in semi-formal wear and make it a night on the town. Your family will be treated to a delicious meal and then laugh their heads off at the newest family film playing at the theatre. Bonus points if it’s in 3D – your kids will love that!
2. Science Centre or Museum
When was the last time you visited a science centre or museum? Usually reserved for school field trips, an outing to a science centre is something that is not just fun for the whole family, but educational too! Make it a goal to learn something new. Have each member of your family remember three new, cool facts they learned and then share them at the end. Or male a game out of your visit and all vote on your favourite exhibit at the end.
3. Visit a Park
While it’s usually still a bit chilly in some places in February, you can bundle up and take the kids to the park for an afternoon of skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating. If it’s a particularly warm day, pack a picnic and go on a winter hike. It might sound crazy, but when the ground and trees are glistening with snow and frost, you will feel as if you are in a magical wonderland.
4. Check out your City
Every city is likely to have their own Family Day activities planned. Whether it’s a free show or concert, fun games like a family scavenger hunt, or arts and crafts, there will be something for everyone. Do a quick online search to find out what events are happening around you, and mark them in your calendar!
5. Stay at Home
If it’s still too cold, or maybe you don’t like crowds, that’s okay too! Plan a day in for you and your family. Create your very own spa day, bake and decorate cookies, break into teams and play your favourite board games, and finish the night with a movie, complete with snacks and hot chocolate with marshmallows. The best part about being at home is that you can get into your PJs and cuddle in front of the TV. No getting ready, no crowds, no hassle, no money spent – just quality time with the people you love the most. Let the Top Country Songs playlist be your soundtrack!
