our top Resources for Parents
Parents need a break! We’ve got some great cheat sheets here to help make your family time easier and more fulfilling. We add more articles all the time, so check back often!
Things To Do This Weekend With Kids: January 17-19, 2025
The weekend is here and we have combed through our events calendar to bring you a list of fun things to do this weekend in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and beyond!
2025 March Break Camps in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps for kids in Kitchener and Waterloo. Our Camps Guide will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is closed for the week.
March Break Camps 2025 in Burlington, Oakville, and Milton
Our Guide to March Break Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out.
March Break Camps 2025 in Hamilton
It’s time to start planning for March Break Camps in Hamilton! Our Guide to March Break Camps near you will help you find a great spot for kids to be while school is out. Active Parents includes every single camp we come across because we want to help parents (and kids!) choose the best camp to complement their passions and personalities.
Free Things To Do With Kids in January!
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.
Adult and Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve At Home Party Ideas
Looking for New Year’s Eve at-home ideas? Want to throw a new years eve party for kids? We’ve got you covered from decor to food to ways to celebrate midnight with little people who can’t stay up that late!
The Easiest Way To Track Santa’s Sleigh with NORAD
Here is how to track Santa’s sleigh as it makes its way through the night sky, delivering gifts to children around the world who celebrate Christmas.
Things To Do On Christmas Day: 20+ Activities You Will Love
The holidays are all about spending time with families and friends — but that doesn’t mean you have to spend that time…at home! Whether you have to shift your Christmas dinner plans or you don’t celebrate Christmas, there are still a lot of fun things to do on Christmas Day.
Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunts For All Ages
Kids will love walking or driving by Christmas Houses in Burlington and Hamilton (and beyond) when they have a mission to complete! Print these scavenger hunts and see how many of the items they can find.
50+ Things To Do This Winter
Let’s banish those winter blues! Here are more than 50 things to do during winter in Hamilton and Halton area, including Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Waterdown, Hamilton, Stoney Creek and beyond.
Family New Year Events 2024
We know it’s a time-honour tradition to ring in the new year with a celebration of some size, and we can help you outsource the planning and cleanup. 3…2…1… Let’s ring in the new year with the kids!
Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms Near Burlington and Hamilton
It’s the time of year to visit a Christmas Tree Farm to bring home your holiday centrepiece. Choose to cut your own tree or buy one that’s pre-cut and ready to tie to the roof of your car.
Where To Donate Your Christmas Tree After Christmas
Donate your Christmas Tree to one of these locations
The Candlelit Stroll – Wintertime Fun In Downtown Burlington
The Candlelit Stroll through Downtown Burlington is a free family-friendly event transforms the downtown core into a winter wonderland of lights, glowing storefronts and merriment.
Experience the Magic of the Botanical Train Display at Royal Botanical Gardens
Looking for a delightful winter outing that the whole family will love? The Botanical Train Display at Burlington’s Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is a must-see seasonal attraction that combines the charm of model trains with breathtaking natural artistry. Here’s why this exhibit deserves a spot on your family’s holiday itinerary.
Walk Through and Drive Through Christmas Lights Displays
Enjoy the season by going to drive-thru Christmas light festivals and walking through light displays. No matter which of these Christmas light experiences you choose, you will agree that Ontario is all glowing with magic during the Holiday season.
Map of Christmas Lights in Burlington, Hamilton and Beyond
2024 marks the 7th year that our Map to the Best Decorated Christmas Houses has been wowing families all over the region. Easily find the best-decorated homes with our map and photo gallery!
80+ Stocking Stuffers for Kids of Every Age
Our family loves opening our stockings on Christmas morning. It’s like the pre-game show to the big present-opening party. Here are some of our favourite stocking stuffer ideas, and ones that come highly recommended by our community of parents like you.
The Best Christmas Towns From Toronto to Niagara
Holiday lights, snowy strolls, outdoor ice skating and Christmas markets galore.
Burlington Festival of Lights – 2024 Dates and Photos
It is rare to have such a beautiful light festival also be FREE but the Burlington Festival of Lights is just that! Here’s when it starts, ends and what displays you can expect to see.
Ice Skating Lessons For Kids and Adults
Want to learn to skate? These ice skating lessons near Burlington, Oakville and Milton will have you gliding gracefully before you can tie your skates! Ice skating in the wintertime
Santa Photos 2024: Where To Get Santa Pictures This Year
Where’s Santa? He’s a very busy man at this time of year, but Santa always makes time for little boys and girls. Here is where and how you can visit Santa this year.
9 Advent Calendars For Kids That Aren’t Chocolate
One of the ways our family counts the days till Christmas (besides my kids asking hourly “How many days till Christmas, again?”, is with an Advent Calendar.
Letters to Santa – Important Dates For Grown-Ups!
Canada is one of the few places where when you mail your letters to Santa, he writes back! It must be because we’re so nice! It’s time to make your list, check it twice, and hope that Santa sees you when you’re being nice!
The CP Holiday Train Is Back For 2024 & Stops Near You
The CP Holiday Train is back on track for 2024! Here is where you can see the train and enjoy the concert near Hamilton, Milton and Toronto.
2024 Christmas Events in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara
It’s that time of year again! Gather round for holiday cheer, kisses under mistletoe, and dashing through the snow to enjoy Christmas activities in Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville and beyond.
Santa Claus Parades 2024 – Route Maps and Dates
Updated for 2022! Santa has a very busy season ahead of him, and so do you! Use our guide to find a Santa Claus Parade (or two) that fits your family’s schedule.
8 of The Best Snow Tubing Hills in Ontario
We have some fabulous locations for snow tubing near us. All this snow makes now the perfect time to find a snow tube hill nearby and plan an exciting day on the slopes with your family.
Breakfast With Santa Events Near You 2024
Experience a joy-filled morning with one of the seasons most loved traditions – Breakfast With Santa! We know where you can see the big guy in red, while enjoying some delicious fare.
2024 Christmas Markets and Holiday Shopping Events
There is no better feeling than shopping at a local Christmas Market and finding that perfect gift for someone you care about. This list of local Holiday Markets near Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Hamilton and Niagara will help you do just that!
10+ Board Game Cafes That Are Too Cool To Pass On
Board game cafes have been popping up all over the world, and in your city, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a unique and fun experience for people of all ages and backgrounds.
We Rock The Spectrum Indoor Playcentre Oakville
We Rock The Spectrum in Oakville is a kids gym where everyone is welcome, regardless of their abilities and needs. From toddlers thru teen years, everyone loves playing at this unique kid’s gym.
Teal Pumpkins – What Are They And Do You Need One?
Wondering if you should have a teal pumpkin on your porch this Halloween?
2024 Best Decorated Halloween Houses with Maps and Photos
Drive or walk around your area to see the scariest, spookiest and downright fangtasic Halloween displays in Burlington, Oakville and Hamilton. The whole family will love it, and it costs next to nothing.
Spooktacular Halloween Events Near Halton, Hamilton and Niagara Regions
We update this list daily, so save this post and check it often! We know families who love Halloween are excited to take their Boo Crew to a spooktacular Halloween event in Niagara and Milton, too!
Hanes Corn Maze is Canada’s Largest Corn Maze!
It’s not Fall without a visit to Hanes Corn Maze. Never been? Here’s the scoop on what makes it an ideal destination for a day out with the family.
The 7 Best Corn Mazes Near Me In Hamilton and Halton
Get lost – and found – in a corn maze this fall! There is a variety of corn mazes in Hamilton and Halton, perfect for all ages. You’ll even find some super-easy pint-sized mazes just for the littlest adventurers to conquer.
Local Advertising: 5 Free Ways To Work With Active Parents
Hello Business Owners! At Active Parents, we’re dedicated to connecting local families with the best services and experiences in our community via our tried and true local advertising methods. We
5 Ways to Stay Connected to Your Customers
Since March 2020, we have all been asked to pivot our businesses from the one direction we had charted to a completely new course. My business has always been digital,
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation Events and Ceremonies
The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is observed as a federal holiday on September 30th each year. To honour this sacred and solemn day, we have a list of gatherings, events and resources for your reference and consideration.
Best Places To See Fall Colours Hamilton and Burlington
October is the perfect time to watch the leaves in Ontario change from fresh green to warm, firey hues before the frost of winter rolls in. Here are our suggestions for the best places to see leaves change in Burlington and Hamilton.
The Apple Orchard Is Full of Fall Family Fun
The apple orchard was one of the very first places I took my kids to pick apples. I’m pretty sure we went the first year they were open! And we’ve been recommending it to families ever since.
Pumpkin Patches Families Love in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara
The crisp fall air, hayrides, and freshly baked farm treats are a great way to spend a day. If you’re looking for a pumpkin patch, you’ll find all the info you need below.
PA Day Camp Providers in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton
It’s almost time for another PA Day or PD Day in Hamilton and Halton area schools. Active Parents makes choosing a PD Day Camp for your kids easier! Our guide
Horseback Riding Near Hamilton, Halton, Brantford, Niagara
Our readers often ask “Where can I go horseback riding near me?” so we knew this curated list would help a few families out. If you have a child who is ready to progress from pony rides to horseback riding, you’ll want to check out our list of local stables.
Apple Picking in Hamilton, Halton and Beyond
There are lots of pick-your-own apple orchards throughout Halton and into Hamilton. Here’s our pick-your-own apple guide with all the details you need to find an orchard and have some family fun on the farm over the next few weeks.
25+ Fall Festivals In Halton, Hamilton and Niagara
Autumn events are in full swing and our events calendar is home to the best fall festivals in Niagara, Hamilton and Halton – and beyond! Apple pie, pumpkin spice, wagon rides and more, these family-friendly harvest festivals deliver more than just jack-o-lanterns!
Andrews Scenic Acres Farm Market
From spring through autumn, Andrews Farm Market – also known as Andrews Scenic Acres – is an ideal outdoor place to go with kids. This Milton farm offers a variety of activities and seasonal events that families will love. Read on for what to expect when you visit.
Springridge Farm: A Must-Do For Little Farm Fans
Springridge Farm is a long-time family favourite place to visit. This is a great place for multi-generations to visit together. The grandparents have as much fun as the kids do! Let us show you why Springridge Farm in Milton is always a great way to spend a day.
Martial Arts For Kids Near Halton and Hamilton
Welcome to the Parent’s Guide to STEM Classes, Coding, and Robotics Classes for Kids. Coding, robotics and STEM classes offer an exciting journey into the world of innovation, problem-solving, and creativity! In this guide, you will find classes and programs for kids in Halton, Hamilton and Niagara.
The Children’s Art Factory – Where Kids Get Messy and Creative
Messy play is great for kids because it allows them to create and explore without worrying about the clean up – that’s their grown up’s job, right?! Just wait! The Children’s Art Factory in Guelph provides the play and cleans up the mess! Come along as learn about why this makes a great stop on your family adventures.
Natural Playgrounds Near Burlington and Hamilton
There are so many natural playgrounds near Burlington and Hamilton, and visiting one with a picnic in tow makes for an excellent and inexpensive summer day! What makes it a
10 Things To Do With Kids in Guelph
Guelph, Ontario is just a short drive from the Burlington Hamilton area and makes for an ideal day trip, no matter what season. It’s a favourite of ours, so we put together some of the top Things To Do With Kids in Guelph.
13+ Things to Do At Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville is just one of the 340 Ontario Parks. We visit multiple times a year in every season because there’s always something fantastic to do at Bronte Creek. Here are some highlights of what you can expect when you visit.
It’s Cherry Picking Season! Here’s Where to Pick Cherries Nearby
Cherry picking is a fond memory I have of time well spent with my grandparents. Make some memories of your own this summer when you and the whole family go cherry picking near me in the Niagara, Hamilton and Halton regions. We really do grow the best cherries out this way!
Outdoor Birthday Party Venues
If you are lucky enough to have a summer birthday, take your party outside! The weather is perfect and kids will love the fresh air and sunshine they get to soak up at one of these outdoor birthday party venues. Indoor parties happen 9 months a year, as a result, your party will be memorable and unique when it happens outdoors.
50+ Things To Do This Summer At Home
This summer doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg just because you have some kids to entertain! To help you make the most of your family time, we’ve got 50+ things to do this summer when you want to have fun without leaving home.
Hamilton Farm Crawl
What is Farm Crawl Hamilton, you ask? Farm Crawl provides public access to farms across Hamilton to learn about agriculture, see operations and have a “genuine” farm experience. It happens 3 times a year, so get your tickets today!
Canada Day Fireworks 2024: Where To See Them
Can you believe that July 1st is around the corner?! We sure can’t! It’s so exciting to see the return of many in-person Canada Day fireworks in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and beyond. In this article, to help you and your family make the most of the Canada Day weekend, you’ll find a list of all the fireworks displays and festivals to mark this special occasion!
9 Beautiful Beaches Families Love Near Burlington, Hamilton
There are so many beautiful beaches in Hamilton and Burlington! Most are free or cost a small fee to visit for the day. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach near Hamilton or the surrounding area.
9 Outdoor Waterparks You Must Visit This Summer
Visiting a waterpark in the summer is one of the more exciting things to do with your kids. We’ve rounded up all of the waterparks near Hamilton, Niagara and the GTA to help you plan an awesome summertime day trip with your family.
Wild Waterworks in Hamilton: A Thrilling Aquatic Adventure
From exhilarating water slides to lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we’ll take you on a detailed journey through the park, highlighting its attractions, amenities, and everything else you need to know for an unforgettable day of fun and adventure.
Waterdown Memorial Park Has a Massive Skate Bowl, Playground and Paved Path
Waterdown Memorial Park is filled with natural beauty and great amenities for families. Read on to find out why we love visiting this park among other family friendly Hamilton locations.
Maple Park in Burlington is Gated and Has a Skate Park, Too!
Located just south of Mapleview Centre in Burlington’s west end, this park has a ton to offer families and kids of all ages. Maple Park in Burlington’s south-west had a makeover and the upgrades make it ideal for toddlers! But bring your big kids too, because this park has fun for all ages!
Coronation Park in Oakville – Perfect For Picnics, Biking Paths, and Splash Pad
Oakville’s Coronation Park is a beautiful park situated on the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s 23+ acres of beauty, and it’s an ideal destination for your next day trip.
Paletta Lakefront Park and Mansion
Nestled behind a stone wall and manicured shrubbery sits Paletta Mansion, at Paletta Lakefront Park in Burlington. The grounds make for a peaceful place to stroll, and the mansion is ideal for the specialist of occasions. Come with us on a mini tour of Paletta Lakefront Park.
Spend the Day in Stratford, Ontario
Have you been to Stratford, Ontario? I hadn’t been in years, so when a friend inspired me to visit again, I did. I took the kids on the road and we spent the day in this adorable small town. Here’s what we did.
Where To See Trains: 8 Places in Halton, Hamilton & Beyond
Wondering where to see trains nearby? If you’re a train enthusiast or simply love the charm of locomotives, you’re in luck! There are several fantastic places near you where you can witness the beauty of trains up close. Here’s a list of must-visit locations.
50+ Fun Date Night Ideas You Need To Put On Your Calendar
Discover the best date night ideas in southern Ontario. Our curated list of day dates, free dates, outdoor dates and more grows all the time to provide couples with more inspiration to spend one-on-one time together.
Heritage Green Sports Park: 2 Zip Lines + Tall Climbers
A great friend recommended we visit Heritage Green sports complex in Stoney Creek and boy are we glad they did! Here’s why we think you should plan a visit next
Opening July 2024 – Chicopee Zip Lining at Chicopee is An Adrenaline-Filled Family Adventure
Looking for another epic family adventure this summer? Let me introduce you to zip lining at Chicopee Tube Park!
Bird Kingdom: Get Up Close With Exotic Birds and Creatures
A day trip to Niagara Falls is not complete without a visit to Bird Kingdom, the World’s Largest Free-Flying Indoor Aviary. Kids and adults will love this immersive experience that gets everyone up close with birds, turtles, snakes and more!
5 Beautiful Lavender Farms Near Halton, Niagara & Beyond
Visiting lavender farms like these can be a relaxing and photographic summer outing for your family. Spend some quality time together surrounded by fields of lavender in every shade of purple and violet blue. Go for a walk where the lavender grows, have a picnic, snap some photos, and treat yourself to some honey lavender ice cream.
Family Pride Events
Family Pride Month events provide a platform for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, parents, and allies to connect, share stories, and amplify their voices. It is a time to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges faced, and envision a future where every family is valued and respected.
William Rose Park – Great Playground, Sports Courts, Skate Bowl and Trails
William Rose Park in North Oakville is one of the city’s newest parks. It is 4 acres of fun for the entire family and here’s what you can expect. Welcome
Mountainside Park in Burlington – 2 Playgrounds in 1 Visit
Janelle and her girls ventured off to Mountainside Park in Burlington recently and were pleasantly surprised with what they found. It has everything for a variety of age groups between
Exhibition Park is a Huge Natural Playground in Guelph
I love a good day trip, and this summer we’ve been doing many! A few weekends ago we grabbed the kids and hopped in the car to visit Guelph –
Tansley Woods Park in Burlington Has Trails and a Japanese Garden
Tansley Woods Park and Playground is a great spot to spend an afternoon. The playground is great for all ages, and the paths make for a beautiful stroll. Where Is
Watch Free Outdoor Movies This Summer
Back for 2024! Enjoy free outdoor movies near you this summer! Nothing tells you it’s summertime like the release of the movies in the park schedule. We’ve got the whole line-up here for you, so start popping that popcorn!
100 Days of Fun: Summer Event Calendars For June, July and August
Fill your summer break with FUN thanks to our June, July and August calendars that offer you something AWESOME to do every day!
Sports Leagues in Oakville: Soccer, Baseball, Hockey and More
Every season of every year, parents like you are looking for the best sports programs to register their children in. We can help!
Sports Leagues in Burlington: Soccer, Baseball, Basketball and More
Every season of every year, parents like you are looking for the best sports programs to register their children in. We can help!
Sports Leagues in Hamilton: Basketball, Soccer, Football, and More
When you’ve got a little athlete at home, you want to find the best sports leagues for kids in Hamilton will help keep your children active and engaged all year long!
Kid’s Birthday Party Entertainers
Are you planning a birthday for your kiddo and need a birthday party entertainer? Hiring someone is such a great way to offload some of the hard work to a
Visit The NEW Wonderlab at Toys R Us Burlington
The Toys R Us Burlington location has had a serious glow up and families are going to love visiting even more now! Come along as we take you on a tour of the brand new FREE Wonderlab!
The Ultimate Guide to Summer Festivals in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves the lively atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at these festive gatherings.
Pick-Your-Own Strawberries in Niagara
Our guide to Niagara region pick-your-own strawberry farms provides you with all of the info we could track down online. As farms release more info, we will be back to update our guide – so stay tuned!
Strawberry Picking in Hamilton
One of our favourite early summer activities is strawberry picking in Hamilton at a local fruit farm. FInd all of your options, plus pricing and info here.
Pick Your Own Strawberries Near Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Make the most of the early days of summer by taking the family to pick your own strawberries in Halton! Strawberries are at their peak sweetness in the early days of summer vacation – June and July – and we know where you can find the best farms for strawberry picking near Burlington, Oakville and Milton!
Grand River Rafting Adventure – Tips From Our Trip
Floating along the Grand River was definitely our best summer adventure!
Splash Pads, Outdoor Pools and Wading Pools in Burlington
Spend your summer cooling down at a Burlington splash pad (sometimes called splash parks or spray pads). Most of them are free summer activities! If you need a bigger refresh, we love the outdoor pools in Burlington. They offer waterslides, climbing walls, and they feel like local water parks.
Adventure Village – High Energy Excitement Awaits
Nestled amidst lush greenery and boasting a myriad of attractions, Adventure Village promises an action-packed day out for parents and kids alike. Read on for details and enjoy our Adventure Village photos, too!
The Coolest Mini Golf Courses in Niagara
Grab your putters and get ready for an adventure that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a mini golf pro or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Niagara’s mini putt courses won’t disappoint.
2024 Victoria Day Fireworks, Events and Festivals
Hellooooo Summer! Victoria Day is the (un)official kickoff to our Canadian summer, and it couldn’t come at a better time! This weekend you can enjoy Victoria Day fireworks, festivals and more fun events happening all weekend.
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Hamilton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Hamilton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
Budget Friendly Summer Camps in Burlington, Oakville and Milton
Finding affordable summer day camps for your children can be a challenge. These budget-friendly summer camps in Halton offer a variety of engaging, educational, and fun activities without breaking the bank.
Visit Lowville Park in Burlington Every Season
The amount of fun, fresh air and family time you can get from a visit to Lowville Park in Burlington is limitless! We try to visit a few times every summer, at least once in the fall and we even come back for tobogganing in the winter!
Farmers Markets in Burlington, Oakville and Hamilton
Visit a Farmer’s Market in Burlington, Hamilton and Oakville. It’s a great way to support the hardworking folks who grow and make our food, and to show the kids where their dinner ingredients *really* come from!
5 Must-Do Activities at Halton County Radial Railway Museum
The Halton County Radial Railway Museum is a volunteer-run train museum and a unique attraction to visit in Milton. You’ll love the history and hands-on exploration that happens.
40+ Ideas For Father’s Day Fun + Father’s Day Events Near You
Looking for great things to do on Father’s Day? We can help! this list of 40+ ideas will surely spark interest for your dad. And check out the planned Father’s Day events happening around town too. They’re linked here.