Observed in most provinces on the third Monday in February, Family Day delivers a welcome mid-winter long weekend for Canadians to reconnect across generations. Whether you lace up skates on a frozen pond, explore a museum's latest exhibit, or huddle indoors for a marathon of board games by the fire, Family Day celebrates togetherness and simple pleasures.
Outdoor Adventures & Winter Sports
- Skating & hockey: Municipal rinks and outdoor ponds host free public skating, shinny games and family skate-together sessions.
- Ski hills & snowshoe trails: Resorts in the Rockies, Laurentians and the Gatineau Park offer discounted lift tickets and guided snowshoe tours.
- Sledding & tubing: Local hills fill with laughter as kids and adults race down on toboggans and inner tubes.
Indoor Fun & Cultural Outings
- Museum free days: Many art galleries, science centres and heritage museums waive admission fees, making it ideal for multi-generational exploration.
- Community centre events: Free family swims, drop-in crafts and story-time sessions at libraries keep little ones entertained.
- Cozy board-game marathons: Cafés and rec rooms host themed game days—everything from classic Monopoly to new Canadian-designed strategy games.
Comfort-Food Feasts
- Poutine & comfort classics: Warm up with cheesy fries, hearty soups or slow-cooked stews at family-friendly diners.
- Bannock & butter tarts: Indigenous-inspired bannock and sweet butter tarts connect generations through shared recipes.
- Hot chocolate stations: Parks and ski lodges set up cocoa stands with marshmallows, whipped cream and local maple syrup.
Family-Friendly Festivals & Workshops
- Winter carnivals: Towns from Winnipeg to Fredericton host ice-sculpture contests, sleigh rides and live music.
- Art and craft workshops: Community halls offer drop-in sessions for making family photo frames, Valentine's cards or simple wood-working projects.
- Theatre matinees: Children's theatre companies stage special Family Day performances—puppet shows, musicals and interactive storytelling.
Planning Your Family Day Weekend
- Check provincial calendars—Family Day dates vary (AB, BC, SK: 3rd Monday; ON: 3rd Monday; MB & NB: 3rd Monday; NS & PEI: 3rd Monday).
- Book popular activities (ski lessons, museum tours) in advance to secure spots.
- Bundle up in layers—mid-February temperatures can range from crisp sunshine to icy winds.
- Combine indoor and outdoor plans to keep everyone happy, from toddlers to grandparents.