Hello freebies! This month brings us a sandbox full of free things to do with kids, too. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or fun adventures, there’s something for every family and all offer FREE admission. This list highlights free things to do in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Niagara and more!
As parents, we understand the joy of spending quality time with our little ones without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of fantastic and FREE fun to enjoy with your kids. From outdoor escapades to creative indoor activities, we’ve scoured every corner to compile the ultimate collection of fun-filled experiences.
We think this list of family-friendly events that are free of charge will knock your socks off. We don’t often appreciate how many great activities for kids (and parents!) our area has, but there are lots!
Get ready to create family fun and let your imaginations run wild, all while keeping your wallet happy. So, let’s dive right in and discover free things to do with kids that guarantee family bonding!
We have combed our events calendar to bring you all the best FREE kids’ events near you. Use this calendar to find free things to do today or free things to do this weekend!
Free Things To Do With Kids Today, This Weekend and This Month
If you have children to keep busy, you may wonder, “What free activities are available nearby?” We have the answer! Here is a list of all the free events happening this month.
Events
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Bark for Books at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaRead aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario. Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm […]
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Rainbow Family Storytime at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaJoin HPL staff for stories, songs and rhymes that foster acceptance and inclusion, celebrate family diversity, being yourself and a love of reading. Tuesday, May 26: 10:30am - 11:00am Valley Park Branch Tuesday, June 02: 9:30am - 10:00am Turner Park Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am Concession Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am […]
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BPL Rainbow Storytime
BPL various branches Burlington Libraries, Burlington, ON, CanadaStories, songs & more to celebrate Pride Month Read, sing, and play along in this joyful storytime celebrating love, inclusion, and community. Perfect for families with children ages 5 and younger. Family Storytime is very popular at this location, and space is limited; please arrive early to secure your spot. Tuesday, June 16: 10:30am - 11:00am […]
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Bark for Books at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaRead aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario. Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm […]
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Sensory Storytime
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaA story time for children who thrive better in small groups. A small, welcoming group program with stories, songs, rhymes and sensory play activities for children ages 2-6 who have developmental disabilities, atypical sensory processing and/or other conditions. Registration required. If you need an accessibility accommodation during this program, please contact us before your visit. […]
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Lil’ Kids Club
Hamilton Farmers Market 35 York Boulevard, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaIntroducing the Hamilton Farmers' Market Lil' Kids Club! Once all the bigger kids are back to school, join us at the Hamilton Farmers' Market for toddler aged programming (0-4yrs) on Thursday mornings. Starting September 11th, from 10:30-11:30AM, join Darcy from Enchantment Theatre for a program that introduces the love of the Market through music, storytelling, […]
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Happening in Grimsby
Downtown Grimsby Main Street from Patton Street to Ontario Street, Grimsby, Ontario, CanadaJoin us downtown Grimsby for Happening in Grimsby summer festival with kid's zone, vendor market, food trucks, live entertainment and licensed beverage area. The Happening in Grimsby takes place June 18, 19, and 20.
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Happening in Grimsby
Downtown Grimsby Main Street from Patton Street to Ontario Street, Grimsby, Ontario, CanadaJoin us downtown Grimsby for Happening in Grimsby summer festival with kid's zone, vendor market, food trucks, live entertainment and licensed beverage area. The Happening in Grimsby takes place June 18, 19, and 20.
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Burlington’s Summer Music Parade
FeaturedDowntown Burlington Burlington, Ontario, CanadaGet ready for a morning full of music, colour, and community spirit! The Burlington Summer Music Parade on Saturday, June 20 kicks off at Drury Lane and Caroline Street at 10 a.m., and the fun rolls all the way through to downtown.
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Children’s Garden Party
Gage Park 1000 Main St East, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaJoin us in The Children's Garden for the ultimate garden extravaganza at our 5th annual Children's Garden Party! Calling All Little Planters, Families and Garden Enthusiasts! Are you ready for the ultimate garden extravaganza? Bring your family and friends for a day bursting with fun and excitement at our 5th annual Children's Garden Party!
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Summer Reading Kick Off at OPL
Oakville Public Library - various branches Oakville, ON, CanadaCome out to a Summer Reading Kickoff and start your summer with a splash! The TD Summer Reading Club is Canada’s largest free reading program for kids and teens of all interests and abilities. This year’s theme, Dive In!, invites you to explore a boatload of books. You’ll earn weekly stickers, fun prizes, and chances to win exciting grand prizes all […]
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Soaring Spirit Festival Pow wow
Battlefield Park 77 King St W, Stoney Creek, Ontario, CanadaAll welcome to join the Indigenous community for a 3 day celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day June 19- 21. Artists and community vendors. Live music. Watch, learn and participate in traditional drumming and dancing. Free Event
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BPL Rainbow Storytime
BPL various branches Burlington Libraries, Burlington, ON, CanadaStories, songs & more to celebrate Pride Month Read, sing, and play along in this joyful storytime celebrating love, inclusion, and community. Perfect for families with children ages 5 and younger. Family Storytime is very popular at this location, and space is limited; please arrive early to secure your spot. Tuesday, June 16: 10:30am - 11:00am […]
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Father’s Day Weekend Car Show
West Highland Church 1605 Garth Street, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaWest Highland’s Annual Car Show is Back! Calling all drivers and car enthusiasts—get ready to rev your engines! Date: Saturday, June 20 Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Check-in opens at 9:00 AM) What to Expect: An exciting car show featuring classic and unique vehicles, free BBQ lunch, and awesome prizes! Driver’s Breakfast As in previous years, the breakfast […]
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Bike Rodeo – Thorold
Thorold Community Activities Group 131 Richmond St, Thorold, ON, CanadaHeart Niagara is pleased to invite your child to participate in a Bike Rodeo on June 20th, 2026 from 12:00pm - 2:30pm at the Thorold Community Activities Group! We’re thrilled to offer this interactive cycle safety education program at no cost to youth and families (regularly $10 per child), thanks to the generous support of the City of Thorold, the Thorold […]
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Heartful Meditation, Clay & Play
BPL - Central Branch 2331 New St., Burlington, Ontario, CanadaMeditate, create & take home. Ages 6–12 with an adult Kids ages 6–12 and their adults are invited to slow down and connect through gratitude, guided meditation, and creative expression. Begin with a calming guided meditation to center the mind and open the heart, then carry that calm into a playful clay activity. Shape and […]
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Happening in Grimsby
Downtown Grimsby Main Street from Patton Street to Ontario Street, Grimsby, Ontario, CanadaJoin us downtown Grimsby for Happening in Grimsby summer festival with kid's zone, vendor market, food trucks, live entertainment and licensed beverage area. The Happening in Grimsby takes place June 18, 19, and 20.
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Father’s Day 5K and Festival Oakville
Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park 2340 Ontario Street, Oakville, Ontario, CanadaBring the whole family. The festival opens at 8:00 AM alongside the race and runs until 3:00 PM — live music on the waterfront, a kids zone that runs all day, 50+ local vendors, craft beverages, and food from every corner of Oakville. You don't need to run a single step to enjoy it.
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Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Central Park Burlington 2311 New Street, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaEveryone is invited to attend Indigneous People's Day celebration on Sunday, June 21 at Central Park. This will be festive, fun and free! Join us for live music, traditional drumming, percussive performances, and dance choregraphy. Learn more about Indigenous culture and take part in this fantastic and fun celebration. This event is organized by the […]
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FrancoFEST 2026
Gage Park 1000 Main St East, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaFrancoFEST is three days of celebration set to the rhythm of the Francophonie! Join us on June 19, 20, and 21, 2026, at Gage Park in the heart of Hamilton for a vibrant artistic lineup, immersive cultural experiences, and a festive atmosphere for all ages. Concerts, activities, discoveries, and connections come together to create a […]
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Bike Month at the BG Beach Eco-Hub
BG Eco-Hub 1094 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, ON, CanadaPop by our Eco-Hub on June weekends from 10am to 4pm for biking resources, tips, spin to win bike trivia, and other eco-fun! On Saturday, June 20th, 11am to 3pm, the City's Cycling Committee will be available to share resources and giveaways.
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Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants
Indigo Heritage Green 1783 Stone Church Rd E, Stoney Creek, ON, CanadaThe Piggy Mobile is hitting the road across Ontario as Chris Paul Rainbows celebrates the launch of Guinea Pigs Don’t Wear Pants with joyful readings, signings, storytimes, Pride events, library visits, and community celebrations. From Windsor to Ottawa, Hamilton to Huntsville, Chris is bringing laughter, belonging, and rainbow-hearted fun to families in every corner of […]
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Free Family Open Studio at the AGB
Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaCelebrate heritage, imagination and the power of storytelling through art this spring! This season of free family-friendly programming is inspired by artist Roda Medhat’s immersive sculptural environment. Our knowledgeable artist-instructors will be present to offer guidance and support to develop new ideas, or you are welcome to explore independently and create in your own unique […]
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Summer Reading Kick Off at OPL
Oakville Public Library - various branches Oakville, ON, CanadaCome out to a Summer Reading Kickoff and start your summer with a splash! The TD Summer Reading Club is Canada’s largest free reading program for kids and teens of all interests and abilities. This year’s theme, Dive In!, invites you to explore a boatload of books. You’ll earn weekly stickers, fun prizes, and chances to win exciting grand prizes all […]
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Father’s Day Pop Up
Oakville Towne Square 166 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville, Ontario, CanadaJoin us for our Father Day Pop Up in Towne Square featuring a car display, jazz by John Canham, and more!
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Bark for Books at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaRead aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario. Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm […]
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Sensory Hour Family Drop-in at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaConnect with other families in a sensory-friendly environment. Drop in to connect with other families and have fun in a sensory-friendly environment. If you need an accessibility accommodation during this program, please contact us before your visit. Either email mmcsween@hpl.ca or call 905-546-3200 x3452. Friday, April 10: 3:30pm - 4:30pm Barton Branch Monday, April 20: 4:00pm […]
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Spanish Books Out Loud
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaSit back and relax as we read Spanish-language books aloud. Explore Spanish-language books and practice your Spanish while meeting friends and doing group activities. Presented by Asociación Fraternidad Hispana - Hamilton (AFH-Hamilton) with support from Keetup Publishing House. Monday, May 11: 5:00pm - 6:00pm Kenilworth Branch Monday, May 25: 5:00pm - 6:00pm Kenilworth Branch Monday, June 08: 5:00pm […]
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Rainbow Family Storytime at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaJoin HPL staff for stories, songs and rhymes that foster acceptance and inclusion, celebrate family diversity, being yourself and a love of reading. Tuesday, May 26: 10:30am - 11:00am Valley Park Branch Tuesday, June 02: 9:30am - 10:00am Turner Park Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am Concession Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am […]
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Bark for Books at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaRead aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario. Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm […]
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Rainbow Family Storytime at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaJoin HPL staff for stories, songs and rhymes that foster acceptance and inclusion, celebrate family diversity, being yourself and a love of reading. Tuesday, May 26: 10:30am - 11:00am Valley Park Branch Tuesday, June 02: 9:30am - 10:00am Turner Park Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am Concession Branch Wednesday, June 03: 10:00am - 10:30am […]
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Lil’ Kids Club
Hamilton Farmers Market 35 York Boulevard, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaIntroducing the Hamilton Farmers' Market Lil' Kids Club! Once all the bigger kids are back to school, join us at the Hamilton Farmers' Market for toddler aged programming (0-4yrs) on Thursday mornings. Starting September 11th, from 10:30-11:30AM, join Darcy from Enchantment Theatre for a program that introduces the love of the Market through music, storytelling, […]
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Burlington Latino Festival
Ireland Park 2315 Headon Forest Drive, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaWe are very proud to be the first and largest Latino festival in the city of Burlington. We aim to celebrate and share the diversity and beauty of Latin American culture. We hope you enjoy each edition, which will undoubtedly mark a turning point in the cultural events of the city and the region.
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Patio Play at HPL
HPL - Turner Park Branch 352 Rymal Road East, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaStories, crafts and hands-on activities outside. Soak up the sunshine with a story on our patio. Join us outdoors for fun stories, crafts and hands-on activities. Friday, May 22: 10:00am - 11:00am Turner Park Branch Friday, June 26: 10:00am - 11:00am Turner Park Branch
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Library Mini Golf
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaDesign and play an indoor mini golf course. Design and play an indoor mini golf course using library books and your imagination. Supplies provided. Friday, April 17: 12:00pm - 1:00pm Saltfleet Branch Friday, June 26: 12:00pm - 1:00pm Saltfleet Branch
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Moonlight Flicks – Niagara Outlets – Lilo and Stitch
Niagara Outlets 300 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, CanadaJoin us in watching Lilo & Stitch at the Outlet Collection at Niagara on Friday June 26. Bring your chair/blanket, friends and family!
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Burlington Latino Festival
Ireland Park 2315 Headon Forest Drive, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaWe are very proud to be the first and largest Latino festival in the city of Burlington. We aim to celebrate and share the diversity and beauty of Latin American culture. We hope you enjoy each edition, which will undoubtedly mark a turning point in the cultural events of the city and the region.
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Summer Reading Kick Off
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaSummer Reading Club 2026 is all about water—so dive in! Registration for Summer Reading Club begins on June 27. Head to any branch to register and celebrate the start of summer with fun activities. Set your sites on a reading tracker and find out what's happening at any branch or Bookmobile this summer. Check the […]
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Kids Club: Hamm Piggy Bank
Michaels Craft Stores Michaels, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaCome in for a fun and free in-store event. Make your very own Hamm Piggy Bank to celebrate the release of Toy Story 5.
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Summer Reading Club Kick-Off Party
BPL various branches Burlington Libraries, Burlington, ON, CanadaSplash into summer reading! All ages welcome You're o-fish-ally invited to our Summer Reading Club kick-off celebration! Bring the whole family to your local branch for music, dancing, and creative sea-inspired crafts and activities. All ages are welcome! While you’re here, sign up for the Summer Reading Club and set sail on your own reading […]
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Look Like Me, Read Like Me in partnership with Halton Black Voices
MPL Main branch 1010 Main St E, Milton, ON, CanadaFor children 4-8 years of age. Parents/caregivers must remain on-site for the duration of the program. Look Like Me, Read Like Me will offer kids the chance to see themselves in the stories they hear in order to foster confidence, imagination, and a love for reading and writing. Facilitated by Halton Black Voices, the sessions will be filled […]
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Burlington Model Railway Club Public Demonstration
Burlington Model Railway Club 1137 Hidden Valley Road, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaAt the Burlington Model Railway Centre - Hidden Valley Park, Aldershot (Burlington) Ontario See operating model railroads in three different scales: N-scale and HO scale layouts inside, G-scale outside on the garden railway (weather permitting). Interactive fun for the youngsters! Admission is free Donations will be gratefully accepted
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9th Annual Hamilton Game Swap: Presented by Dorkalicious
Calvin Christian School 547 West 5th Street, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaWhat's a Game Swap? It's a multi-vendor indoor garage sale in which you can buy / sell / trade your Retro, current, new/used games, consoles, memorabilia, etc. and shop from MANY sellers. Our event keeps growing bigger every year!
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Summer Reading Kick Off at OPL
Oakville Public Library - various branches Oakville, ON, CanadaCome out to a Summer Reading Kickoff and start your summer with a splash! The TD Summer Reading Club is Canada’s largest free reading program for kids and teens of all interests and abilities. This year’s theme, Dive In!, invites you to explore a boatload of books. You’ll earn weekly stickers, fun prizes, and chances to win exciting grand prizes all […]
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Kids’ Trivia at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaTest your trivia knowledge in this fun competition for kids ages 6-12. HPL brings the questions, you bring the brains. Test your trivia knowledge in this fun competition for children ages 6-12. Thursday, April 09: 4:00pm - 5:00pm Saltfleet Branch Saturday, May 02: 10:30am - 11:30am Red Hill Branch Friday, June 05: 1:00pm - 2:00pm […]
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Burlington Latino Festival
Ireland Park 2315 Headon Forest Drive, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaWe are very proud to be the first and largest Latino festival in the city of Burlington. We aim to celebrate and share the diversity and beauty of Latin American culture. We hope you enjoy each edition, which will undoubtedly mark a turning point in the cultural events of the city and the region.
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Train Days with the Golden Horseshoe Live Steamers
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology 900 Woodward Ave, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaCatch a ride on a miniature train, operated by the Golden Horseshoe Live Steamers! Various model engines will be running on the miniature railroad track at the museum from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The Museum of Steam & Technology will also be free offering self guided tours of the Boiler house and Pumphouse. Learn […]
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Michaels Canada Day Party
Michaels Craft Stores Michaels, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaCome in-store for a fun free event! Celebrate Canada with demos, a free party popper craft, and more!
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Free Family Open Studio at the AGB
Art Gallery of Burlington 1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, CanadaCelebrate heritage, imagination and the power of storytelling through art this spring! This season of free family-friendly programming is inspired by artist Roda Medhat’s immersive sculptural environment. Our knowledgeable artist-instructors will be present to offer guidance and support to develop new ideas, or you are welcome to explore independently and create in your own unique […]
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Bark for Books at HPL
HPL - selected branches Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, CanadaRead aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario. Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm […]
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