April Family Activities: 12 Fun & Cheap Things To Do This Month

 

12 Fun and Cheap Activities for April in Ontario

 


Who can deny the excitement that naturally begins to rally as the sun shines brighter, for longer, as the snow melts and summer shows her pretty face in the horizon? 

April is the perfect in-between when the snow has finally melted away, but before it’s too hot to enjoy a full day outdoors.

The beginning of spring is one of the best times of the year to get the family together, enjoy your loved ones, and even sneak a day to yourself to act like a kid again. Whether you’re looking to entertain a few kiddos, impress the significant other, or excite the child within, here are some great suggestions, my personal top 10 fun & cheap activities for April in Ontario. To make it easy, the categories are separated to help you identify the best activities to fit your interests.


Museums and Science Activities

Don’t shy away from these events assuming they’re boring and dull. Trust me, that stereotype can’t be further from the truth. Museums make some of the best day date locations, and these science activities are great for children. Read on to see some great recommendations.

 

1. Free Solar Observing at the Ontario Science Centre

If we’re talking popularity, it’s hard to top the Ontario Science Centre, after they’ve welcomed more than 52 million visitors since its opening in 1969. Helping to teach relevant science discoveries from around the world with a hands-on approach, rich in experience, you’re sure to find something that interests everyone here.



2. Royal Botanical Gardens Frog Exhibit

The uniqueness of the Royal Botanical Gardens helps set the atmosphere for the unforgettable experience of learning about the surprisingly shocking lives of frogs. Their lessons about caring for the environment are both thoughtful and insightful. I’d recommend this, especially for a children's fun afternoon.


3. Free Spectacle of Lights Toronto

With three different installations to choose from, it’s easy to find an interesting sight at the Spectacle of Lights. There’s a spiral tree in the Peter Street Basin, as well as the fire truck, stars and snowflake motif at the Fire Hall. Last, but far from least is the Toronto Music Garden, which features animated music notes, harps, and canopy.




4. Royal Ontario Museum: Vikings and ROM’s Dinosaur Gallery

As a combined effort between the government of Ontario, and the University of Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum was designed to be an international focal point to display the finest arts the country has to offer. An added bonus, the world renowned museum offers several discounts, including those for children, youth, and senior citizens.


5. Sault Ste. Marie Science Festival (Science North)

This specific suggestion has a limited time to visit, as it is only available from April 23 – 25. This year marks the fourth anniversary, aimed to inspire a love of the sciences for all ages. The week-long event highlights both technology and sciences, in an inclusive community designed to introduce coding, math, and innovation in an




Easter Events

With the spring comes the new holidays, designed in festive pastel colours and bright with the excitement of the change of seasons. These events are specific to the holidays in April and include events that are both limited by time and weather.


6. Celebrate Easter Activities

This is a fun and free activity that you can do any time of the month. It’s great for kids, and I like to keep it in my back pocket for a rainy day. While there is a festival you can attend in the city, there is a plethora of fun activities you can do at home with little more than construction paper, eggs, and food colouring.




7. Maple Syrup Festivals

Varying from the beginning to the end of the month, there are more than enough Maple Syrup Festivals in Ontario to keep you busy. You’d be surprised by how many recipes you can make with the sweet and savoury magic that is maple syrup. From savoury entrees to delicious desserts, you’ll enjoy trying the famous tastes offered at the festivals throughout the city.




8. Get Green this Earth Day

The actual annual holiday is April 22, but many organizations offer events and specials throughout the week to celebrate the meaningful day celebrated around the world. This is a great opportunity to teach the little and big ones how to care for this planet we call home while understanding your impact in the community.



Get Outdoors!

9. Family Activities

If you ask me, there’s always a free option when it comes to entertainment. In the case of the top 10 fun and cheap activities for April in Ontario, there are endless ways to enjoy the break in the weather. From flying a kite to taking a walk to enjoy the cherry blossoms and blooming spring flowers, there are so many things to do outdoors in the city.




10. Visit a Local Conservatory

As the weather warms up, this is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon – admiring the incoming additions of spring. You’ll find great exhibits around the city, showcasing butterflies, flowers, and even a few small animals. It’s a great adventure for kids or even a date day.



 

11. Do a Spring Craft

Spring is a time for redecorating and fixing things up, so why not get the family together for a little spring project? You may want to add or create new seasonal decors for your home and if you need some inspiration or a little help visit your local Crafts Supplies or Hardware stores. Kids will enjoy making free crafts like the Build-your-own window birdhouse at Home Depot. Or sign them up for activities at Michaels Arts and Crafts. 





12. Head out to a Spring Festival

While the steady line-ups of summer festivals is a bit away, there are many fun festivals popping up across Ontario during the month of April. There is the Tartan Festival in Fergus and the Mississauga Rotary Ribfest and of course Earth Day festivals as mentioned above. Remember to check out your town’s festival and events guide. You may be pleasantly surprised at the number of scheduled events.




Honestly, I had more suggestions than I could manage for enjoying the city that I love so much. April is one of the busiest months, as everyone rushes outside to experience a new season. I narrowed it down to twelve so that you wouldn’t get overwhelmed, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to add to my activity list.

What do you like to do in Ontario? I’m excited to hear how you best celebrate the break in weather every year. What would make your list of 10 fun and cheap activities for April in Ontario? Let me know in the comments, or send me an email, and I’ll be sure to update the list as the great recommendations roll in. And if you try any of my suggestions, I’d love to hear how you enjoyed your time.

 

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