For most Ontarians, Family Day is the newest holiday they can look forward to — it takes place on the third Monday in February. And though the holiday has been around for almost three years, many companies and organizations haven’t recognized it in any significant way. But not so this year. This year, many family-friendly attractions will be open, and many other companies will host special activities or events. Here’s a rundown of what’s happening on Family Day 2011 in Toronto.
Family Day Programming at TIFF Bell Lightbox
As Canada’s newest — and swankiest — film house, the Lightbox will hold two days of free programming, including viewings of the Tim Burton exhibition and screenings of movies like “Alice in Wonderland” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
For more information, visit tiff.net.
Animation Fun
Another film house — the National Film Board — is getting in on the Family Day action with a free drop-in day of animation activities. Kids are invited to illustrate what family means to them through 2D animation. Workshops are being offered at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Screenings of the “The Cat Came Back” and “The Danish Poet” are also on tap as are scavenger hunts.
For more information, visit onf-nfb.gc.ca.
Winter Apple Ball
Ontario’s Apple Growers have come together to create a fun-filled day for families at Toronto’s Westin Harbour Castle Hotel. From an attempt at a Guinness Book of World Records record — bobbing for apples — to apple treats, face painting and apple trivia, there’s something for kids and family members of all ages.
For more information, visit www.onapples.com.
Other activities
For the most part, libraries, banks, liquor and beer stores and municipal offices, daycares and grocery stores will be closed on Family Day.
So why not head to the Metro Toronto Zoo to spot some of its animals? You can also head to the mall to get some shopping done at the Eaton Centre. Casa Loma, one of Canada’s oldest castles, will have some cool classes and tours available. And for hockey-loving families, the place to pop by will be the The Hockey Hall of Fame. Most museums will be offering special exhibits, including The Art Gallery of Ontario, Bata Shoe Museum, Campbell House, The Royal Ontario Museum, Colborne Lodge and the CN Tower.
Leave a Comment