Free Family Day Fun

You won't have to spend a lot to get a lot this Family Day weekend. There's plenty of fun to be had in Toronto without paying a penny. Here are five of our favourite free Family Day activities.

1. Make a splash at the new Regent Park Aquatic Centre.

With its Tarzan rope, waterslide and three (count 'em, three!) pools, this ain't your average community centre. Test the waters for yourself: Drop in for leisure swim any day this weekend. February 16 and 17, 1:30-5 p.m.; February 18, 2-5 p.m.

2. Choose your own adventure at the HarbourKids Skating Festival.

There's lots of fun to be had at the Harbourfront Centre this weekend—both on the ice and off. Bob the Builder types can tackle a DIY snow fort or put their construction skills to the test at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, while little snow princesses won't want to miss Le Patin Libre’s interactive ice ballet over at the rink. February 17-18; see website for complete schedule of events.

3. Share a picnic at the Evergreen Brick Works.

A trip to the Children’s Garden at the Brick Works' Chimney Court is a great way to while away any weekend, but this Family Day, the campfire is especially enticing with music, guided walks and free skating. February 18, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Chimney Court

4. Sing “Old MacDonald” at Riverdale Farm.

Be sure to belt out a verse for each animal you see: cows, horses, sheep, goats, geese, rabbits and more. Then, once you've had your fill of E-I-E-I-Os, head inside for board games and sewing crafts. February 16-18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with drop-in activities 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

5. Take in a movie—and a workshop—at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

It's no surprise that the TIFF team has programmed a lights, camera, action-packed day of family-friendly entertainment, including special effects workshops, magic shows, crafts and, of course, movies galore. February 18; see TIFF website for complete schedule of events.