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Canada's Family Day: Celebrating Togetherness

Family Day Activities Throughout the Country

February 16, 2024

Did you know? Two beloved games, Trivial Pursuit and Balderdash, were both invented in Canada? In 1979, journalists Scott Abbott and Chris Haney conceived Trivial Pursuit, captivating minds worldwide with its blend of knowledge and strategy. Then, in 1984, Laura Robinson and Paul Toyne crafted Balderdash, infusing laughter into gatherings with its witty wordplay.

These Canadian inventions continue to unite families, embodying the spirit of fun and intellect celebrated on Family Day and beyond. (watch)

LIVING
Canada's Family Day: Celebrating Togetherness

Family Day in Canada, celebrating this year on Monday, February 19th, is a cherished holiday providing families with a much-needed respite from their daily routines. Originated in Alberta in 1990, Family Day in Canada was proposed as a mid-winter break to encourage family bonding. In the early 2000s, the government of Alberta declared the third Monday of February as a statutory holiday.

📜 A Historical Journey 🕰️
The aim was to address the need for families to spend more time together amidst their busy schedules. Recognizing the significance of this initiative, other provinces followed suit, and by 2013, Family Day had become a statutory holiday in all Canadian provinces except Quebec.

🎿 Diverse Celebrations Across the Nation 🌎
Family Day celebrations vary across the country, with families engaging in a wide range of activities tailored to their preferences and traditions. Some opt for outdoor adventures such as skating, skiing, or snowshoeing, while others enjoy indoor pursuits like board games or movie marathons. Many communities organize family-friendly events, including free skating sessions, tobogganing, and winter carnivals, providing opportunities for families to connect and have fun together.

💖 Reflection and Appreciation 🌟
Beyond the festivities, Family Day serves as a time for reflection and appreciation. It is an occasion to acknowledge the importance of family and the support they provide. Families use this day to strengthen their relationships and create new traditions that will be cherished for years to come.

CANADA EH?
Things to do around you:

Since 2012, Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo's penguins have delighted visitors with the penguin walk! This winter, watch king penguins stroll through the zoo grounds. Catch them every Saturday at 10:30 until March 15. Get tickets.

Discover MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, a vibrant winter festival blending gourmet dining, cultural events, and outdoor fun in Place des Festivals. Don't miss the themed meals, workshops, live music, and exciting activities from February 22 - March 10. Learn more.

Toronto welcomes back the Canadian International AutoShow for its 51st year at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre with a focus on electric cars. There will even be a number of family-friendly activities from toy brands LEGO and Mattel. February 16 - 25. Get tickets

Formerly named Just for Laughs Northwest Comedy Fest, Just for Laughs Vancouver is typically held in late February. Ticket prices start at $10, with some events restricted to ages 19+. If you're a comedy enthusiast, this festival is a must-see for its hilarious shows! February 15- 24 at the Queen Elizabeth and Vogue Theatre Get tickets

The Pentathlon des neiges Sun Life, the world's largest winter multisport event, features 5 disciplines: biking, snowshoeing, skiing, skating, and running. Available for individuals or teams, held in the historic Plains of Abraham, Québec City. Spectators enjoy free activities. February 17- 25. Learn more

Join the Great Canadian Kilt Skate in Ottawa at the Lansdowne Park Skating Court on February 18, 2024. Whether you don a kilt or not, come skate and celebrate Scottish and Canadian culture! Learn more

TRAVEL
Family Day Activities Throughout the Country

This year, Family Day falls on Monday, February 19th! While not universally celebrated across all provinces, let's discover the diverse array of activities available in regions that do partake in the festivities:

Alberta
As the birthplace of Family Day, Alberta promises an abundance of fun activities for families this year. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures like skating, snowshoeing, or motorized winter activities, there's something for everyone. Kids can even try their hand at ice fishing! If the cold isn't your thing, fear not—Alberta offers plenty of indoor experiences to enjoy as well. Check out the full list of activities and make this Family Day one to remember! (To Do Canada)

British Columbia
This year, the B.C. government is teaming up with the BC Recreation and Parks Association and the BC Museums Association to support a range of free Family Day activities, both virtual and in-person, across the province during the Family Day weekend. Find your city and check out what free family day activities are in your area.

New Brunswick
A long weekend presents a perfect opportunity to unwind and cherish quality moments with loved ones. Despite the winter chill, there's no shortage of fun to be had in Fredericton this Family Day Weekend. Here are 15 fun activities to consider from February 16th to 19th, 2024, ensuring a memorable time for all ages. (To Do Canada)

Ontario
This year families have an extra day to bond and enjoy various activities together. From snowy adventures like skiing and snow tubing to indoor fun at entertainment complexes like The Factory in London and Kids Fun City in North York, there's something for everyone. Animal lovers can explore zoos and aquariums. There are also plenty of activities for teens including fat biking at places like Crimson Ridge in Sault Ste. Marie. With a plethora of options available.

Check out Destination Ontarios' extensive list of things to do this Family Day.

Saskatchewan
Looking for ways to keep your kids entertained this upcoming long weekend and school break in Saskatchewan? From thrilling outdoor adventures to engaging arts and crafts sessions, educational workshops, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore this list of exciting activities tailored for families to make the most of Family Day Weekend and February Break in Saskatchewan, running from February 17th to 25th. (To Do Canada)

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Top 100 Places to Eat in Canada

Damas, Montreal

Join us as we uncover the best culinary gems across Canada, named by Yelp. From Toronto's multicultural tapestry to Montreal's gastronomic delights and Vancouver's coastal flavours, prepare to indulge in the nation's top eateries. 

Savouring Toronto
Toronto, a melting pot of cultures and flavours, shines bright on Canada's culinary map with an impressive twenty restaurants gracing the Top 100 list. Leading the charge is the illustrious Chen Chen’s Nashville Hot Chicken, capturing the number one spot with its tantalising blend of Nashville hot chicken and Asian-inspired southern sides. 

Joining the ranks of Toronto's culinary elite are Grandma Loves You at number four and New Orleans Seafood & Steakhouse at number five, the innovative Zeal Burgers at nineteen, and the enchanting Momo Hut & Gardens at twenty-five.

Quebec’s Gastronomic Delights
Quebec proves its culinary prowess with fourteen esteemed establishments earning a coveted spot on the list. Among these, Buvette Scott in Quebec City stands tall at number two, showcasing its culinary finesse and dedication to excellence. From Montreal, we can find Bouillon Blk, a modern European eat, and Damas, which is known for their Syrian food.

Vancouver's Culinary Gems
With eleven restaurants making the cut, Vancouver adds its own flair to the culinary tapestry of Canada. While each establishment offers a unique dining experience, Manoush’eh claims its place as a returning favourite at number two  Also making the list are Number E Food and Workshop Vegetarian Cafe.

Alberta’s Round Up 
Alberta makes the list multiple times with restaurants like Minas Brazilian Steakhouse high up at number twelve and The Himalayan up there at number fifteen! Other honourable mentions can do to The Italian Centre Shop which has been serving authentic Italian food in Edmonton for over 60 years 

SPORTS
Getting to Know Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Commonly known as SGA, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a prominent Canadian basketball player currently playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Born in Toronto and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, he gained recognition after being drafted 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018 and swiftly traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. 

Despite injuries, Gilgeous-Alexander's talent shone, earning him a spot on the All-NBA First Team in 2023. 

With notable achievements both in the NBA and internationally, including a bronze medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to make waves in the basketball world, solidifying his status as a Canadian sports icon. (watch)