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2 Min Read March 23, 2024 No Reply

Easter Activities to do that don’t involve Bunnies or Eggs

Parenting

The upcoming long weekend doesn’t have to be all about Easter (and for many who don’t celebrate it, or welcome the Bunny, it already isn’t!).  There are other ways to spend the long weekend as a family and still get out of the house for a bit. Below I’m sharing a few suggestions for you to consider if you want to fill the time this weekend but don’t want to see another pastel anything for a while.

1- Go to the Movies

Right now, there are many family friendly movies playing.

2- Find a sugar bush

This won’t help if you are trying to avoid the crowds this weekend, but it’s still maple syrup season and I’m not sure there is anything better than fresh syrup (or maple candy. Drool).

3- Go for a nature walk

Pull on the rubber boots (and splash pants) and head for a nature walk on a local path. If the snow has started melting in your area, it may mean a messy, muddy walk, but it also means you can chat with the kids about the emerging plant life, the animals coming out of hibernation and more.

4- Go for a drive

We like to hit the road in one direction or another for short drives on weekends like this. We often end up somewhere to eat (or at a bakery) and explore some of our favourite neighbourhoods and town we haven’t been to in the winter because of timing or weather.

Tip: Black Walnut Bakery in Cumberland has plenty of outdoor seating so if we get a nice-ish day, it’s a treat to be able to enjoy a hot beverage outside! Just be mindful of which days they are open!

But food doesn’t have to be involved! Going somewhere new and different can be fun.

5- Indulge in a treat

Sure, snow may be on the ground, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have ice cream. Easter weekend often kicks off our upcoming ‘warm weather’ ice cream addiction. If you have a favourite haunt, why not indulge in a special long weekend treat together.

Pro tip: Cafe Latte Cino in Orleans has a waffle on their menu that is topped with gelato. A perfect combination (at least, my kids seem to think so!)

6- Try a new game

Long weekends are a great time for families to reconnect, certainly in our house with everyone being so busy with work, school and extracurriculars, the slower paced long weekends give us a chance to try a new board game or video game. Any excuse to spend some extra time together!

4 Min Read February 26, 2024 No Reply

March Break Activities in Ottawa

Around Ottawa, Parenting

March Break for many families in the Ottawa area is March 11-17.

Not sure what to do? While we are looking forward to some quiet days without the hustle and bustle of a busy high school semester, I also know that many families (ourselves included) will be looking for some new and fun activities to enjoy for kids of all ages.

Please note that some activities are free, and others are ticketed/paid admission events.

March Break with Kids in Ottawa

Go Goat snuggling

Do I need to say anything else? Since our Beach Goat visit when we were in PEI this summer, goats have become a bit of an obsession for this family. Near Ottawa, in Winchester, at Vanderland The Barnyard Zoo, you can book a private goat snuggling session.

Honestly, just check out their Instagram to see that it literally means you’ll get to snuggle goats. You need to privately message to book your time.

Visit Parc Omega

A family favourite of ours, Parc Omega is a nice day trip outing to take with the kids. At this time of year, you’ll just be missing their maple season but there is still a lot to do during your visit. Kids of all ages LOVE seeing the animals and of course feeding them carrots!

wolf at parc omega where you can visit during march break

Plan a Staycation or Mini Getaway

We don’t have to plan a week-long vacation over the March Break (although admittedly, I would also love to do that) but a night or two away at a nearby location is sometimes the perfect break. It also means less stress since the drive is typically shorter and you don’t feel like overpacking the same way!

Not sure where to begin? Check out my staycation post for some ideas.

In Ottawa, many of our local hotels have amazing March Break packages that include visits to Museums and other activities (for example, the Lord Elgin has a family package that looks like a lot of fun and Brookstreet is always a great family hotel! Or, check out Fairmont Chateau Montebello for swimming, indoor activities and outdoor adventuring.) Being a tourist in our own city can be a blast.

Enjoy Maple Syrup Season Activities

I’ve always loved maple syrup season and sugar bush activities. During March Break, plan a trip to a local sugar bush to enjoy pancakes, learn about the making of maple syrup and play outside! Check out Proulx Farm or Stanley Farms.

Have a HOOT at a Museum!

Take your pick of which museum you want to visit in Ottawa because there are so many to choose from (we are fortunate that way!) But of note, the Owls Rendez-Vous at the Canadian Museum of Nature is ending on April 1 and I recommend that one (I need to take my kids too!) You can read about it from my previous visit here.

owls at the nature museum in ottawa. Visit during march break before they are gone

Also, over at the Children’s Museum (a part of the Canadian Museum of History), there are March Break activities in celebration of Anne of Green Gables! Fitting for fellow PEI lovers (or fans of the classic story).

Get hands-on at your local library

I love going to the library even when there are no events happening. If you have kids of any age, it’s a worthwhile outing. Everyone gets to browse for a new book to enjoy (and with the extra time at home during March Break, it’s a good time to get a stack!) A

TIP: if you didn’t already know, you can borrow video games for most systems (including older ones – shout out to the Wii fans) so it’s a nice little perk. There are movies too for family movie night. This is also a free activity!

In additional to creating your own self-guided fun at the library, there are many FREE events happening during March Break. Many require a pre-registration (although there are some drop-in activities) but you can browse all of the activities on the Ottawa Public Library website.

Take a walk outside

I know it seems so simple, but everytime we used to take the kids for a walk on a path or at Gatineau Park, we loved it – and it’s easy to forget how sometimes the simple activities (and the free ones) end up being filled with memories. You can create an outdoor scavenger hunt or just bundle up (in snow pants or rain pants depending on the weather!) and head outside!

HAVE FUN!

3 Min Read March 10, 2023 No Reply

March Break in Ottawa

Around Ottawa
march break in ottawa

Once upon a time, we travelled for March Break. We went somewhere warm and sunny. A joy, and privelege, that we truly loved.

For the past few years, that hasn’t been the case. And in 2023, it remains the same. For a variety of reasons, our March Break in Ottawa will be spent at home. The kids are older so it’s not like I have to create a camp experience for them like I would have when they were younger to keep them busy.

We’ve all been really busy and tired.

They’ll enjoy some time to relax, hang with friends and sleep in. I’ll enjoy sleeping in a bit.

We are considering an overnight at some point, and will likely focus on tasty food.

Andy and I are both also working.

If you find yourself wondering what to do with the kids for March Break, or want some ideas to make special plans, I’ve gathered up some options.

Remember – this is meant to be a break. If it feels like a lot of work for everyone, or manufacturing ‘special’ time, try whatever works for you and your family!

March Break Activities in Ottawa

Visit the Mall

I used to love taking the kids to the mall when they were younger (I still do!). The Food Court had something for everyone, we could wonder around indoors and stay warm and dry, and it was a good way to pass the time.

Because of March Break, many of the malls are offering special programming. Visit your local one to determine if there’s anything happening.

Place d’Orleans has a week of activities like Little Ray’s Reptiles and cookie decorating.

Carlingwood’s March Break Fun Zone has a play area, music throughout the week, and a bird calling/bird house painting – just to name a few activities.

Visit a Museum

Ottawa’s Museums are amazing. I’ve talked about this a lot and they were always a go-to when my kids were younger. The truth? We still love going to museums (the eldest teen especially)!

Ingenium Museums (Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum) all have March Break programming.

Not sure where to go? Start with The Farm (Canada Agriculture and Food Museum) – it’s an awesome place for little ones to be in and outside and the animals are always a hit. If my kids were little that’s where I would start. (Although all the museums have been faves of ours!)

Visit the Library

I still love going to the library after years and years of library visits with the kids. It’s the perfect place to spend time time – borrowing books, video games or movies. But also the Ottawa Public Library has programming for kids and teens all week long.

The library programming is also free!

Play with your Food

Activities that you can do at home can be fun, unique and memory making without having to bundle everyone up to head to a destination.

Order decorate-your-own cupcakes or cookies from The Cupcake Lounge or make a fancy hot chocolate bar with hot chocolate bombs from Aux Delices Bakery and Pastry Shop.

March break is the perfect time to try some new recipes as a family too! Pull out a recipe from your childhood and recreate it together or for a meal. Bonus if you have teens: They never get tired of hearing you start stories with ‘when I was younger’ 😉

2 Min Read March 7, 2018 No Reply

Magic is coming to Shenkman Arts Centre

Around Ottawa

Do your kids love magic? Do they try out tricks on you or have they gotten a ‘My First Magic Trick’ book? My eldest especially took an interest in the art of illusion a few years ago. What didn’t hurt was the fact that his uncle learned a few tricks of his own, which served to mesmerize the kids at each visit (and, I’ll be honest, myself too!)

Wouldn’t it be neat to watch tricks of the eye and an illusionist at work live, in person and right before your eyes (with some audience interaction added in)? If your family enjoys a great show and wants to step into a world of wonder, look no further than the Shenkman Arts Centre.

On March 24, at 7 pm, grab tickets for yourself and the kids and watch Vitaly: An Evening of Wonders. 

Vitaly Beckman is an innovative, world-class illusionist who sees the wonder in the world and turns it into an unforgettable theatrical experience. See photographs and paintings come to life! Watch audience members disappear from their own driver’s licenses!…Brace yourself for a whole new take on magic when you step into Vitaly’s world.

On the Shenkman Arts Centre website, you can watch a video clip from Vitaly’s performance on a Penn and Teller show last year (where he fooled them) – that had everyone’s jaw dropping! Honestly, I watched the clip and every time I thought I knew what was happening or why it was happening, I was completely wrong. Each step of the trick had me scratching my head. That’s a great sign of a successful performance – we don’t want to know how it’s done, but can’t stop ourselves from thinking about it!

The upcoming show is recommended for kids aged 7 and over and tickets are still available!

Find your tickets on the Shenkman Arts Centre website. 

Shenkman Arts Centre is a blog advertiser. 

3 Min Read July 22, 2017 No Reply

What to do with Kids in August in Ottawa

Around Ottawa
ottawa family activities in august

There is still plenty of summer left before the kids all go back to school! Not sure how to keep them busy if you are around Ottawa this summer? Here are some activities that you may want to check out (I’ve included ones that will be perfect for older kids and ones for younger toddlers and preschoolers too!)

What to do in #ottawa with the kids in August via @bitofmomsense

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Fun family activities to do in Ottawa this August

Explore the Canadian History Hall

The History Hall has been something we’ve been looking forward to, and it’s on our August list to visit. With so many Canadian artifacts and so much information in one spot, it’s sure to be an interesting visit.

Learn about Vimy at the Canadian War Museum

My son has been asking to go to this for a while, so if you have older kids or ones interested in military history, the limited Vimy – Beyond the Battle exhibit (it’s here until November) will be of interest to you. This is also on our August list!

Take in the fun programming at Billings Estate National Historic Site

This was brought to my attention by my sister who has three little ones under the age of five. She raved about the special programming at the Billings Estate National Estate Site (a place we love to go too!). I didn’t realize they had so much to offer during the summer. There are programs for preschools as well as kids up to age 12. Different days of the week offer a different theme. Check it out!

Learn about Farming at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum

Another local museum that we love is the Cumberland Museum. On August 13, they have a special farming event where families can learn more about farm life, and get hands-on with experiments and more.

Go back in time at Upper Canada Village

We love visiting Upper Canada Village, and the summer is always a great time to walk around the village and explore. Plus, buy bread. Before you go: Print off the two free children’s tickets that Ontario has available!

Visit Petrie Island

I recently wrote an article on SavvyMom about all the fun activities at Petrie Island. It’s been a rough year for the Island, and some activities may have changed depending on how the location is doing, but it’s worth looking into the junior naturalists program so kids can learn more about the creatures and plants living there!

Walk through Mosaicanada

I keep talking about this event, but it’s for good reason. If you haven’t been, it’s worth checking out. It’s free and stunning.

Attend the Navan Fair

I love a rural fair. Probably because I grew up where every summer you couldn’t wait to attend the fair. I also love deep fried mini donuts. The Navan Fair is August 10-13!

Check out the Ottawa Busker Festival

I always find it fun when we are able to see art, acting, music and more on the streets, up close and out in the open. The Ottawa Busker Fest is sure to have the kids in awe as they watch! It’s on Sparks Street from August 3-7!

Happy August!

2 Min Read December 15, 2016 No Reply

Family Workshops at NCAC and NVAC

Parenting

The Nepean Creative Arts Centre and Nepean Visual Arts Centre welcome families for art adventures

We had such an amazing time at a recent Nepean Visual Arts Centre family craft workshop. It was a holiday workshop that took about 2 hours and included hot chocolate, cookies and family bonding time! You may have seen my picture of our super cute reindeers that we all did from Instagram.

What I loved about the workshop was not only the cost ($66 for the entire family!) but also that it was real quality time together. No other commitments, no phones, no dishes in the sink staring at us – it was our family (surrounded by other families!) getting creative. Each of our personalities came out in the results and they now are proudly displayed in our living room.

The family that crafts together 😍😜 🎄

A photo posted by Rebecca S (@bitofmomsense) on

It was not only agreed that we would absolutely do another workshop next year, but we’ve already recruited my sister and her family who want in on the crafting action as well!

The Nepean Creative Arts Centre and Nepean Visual Arts Centre offer classes, workshops and programming for kids, families and adults all year round.

In 2017, they have more offerings that everyone will enjoy! A few that have caught my eye:

Canvas and Cocktails (I wrote about my experience in a previous blog post), the Clay Wheel Workshop and I think a lot of kids will love the acting workshop! For a full list of upcoming dates, visit their website.

TIP: Experiences like this make wonderful holiday gifts!

Make Memories – Give the gift of art this holiday season with an arts centre gift card

When you are faced with the task of choosing a gift for someone you love, it can be daunting. Look no further than a gift card that they can spend at the Nepean Visual Arts Centre and the Nepean Creative Arts Centre. Whether your special someone is a painter, potter, dancer, singer (the list goes on), there is a class for everyone!

-Nepean Creative Arts Centre and Nepean Visual Arts Centre

 

 

Disclosure: NCAC is a blog advertiser

 

3 Min Read August 30, 2016 No Reply

Around Ottawa: Family Fun over Labour Day Long Weekend

Around Ottawa

This post could also be titled ‘it’s the last official weekend of summer holidays before school what can we do instead of being sad’ but that felt long 😉

It’s hard to believe that summer is almost over!! I’m not ready (and yet, a little bit of routine won’t hurt any of us.) The Labour Day long weekend offers a great opportunity to make a few more summer vacation memories before the kids head back to school! If you are planning to be around the Ottawa area over the long weekend check out some of these fun activities!

Nokia Sunday Bike Days

Sunday, September 4 marks the last of the Nokia Sunday Bike Days for 2016. Cyclists, runners and other active movers can enjoy the scenic parkways that the capital has to offer. On the Ottawa side, the parkways are open from 9 am to 1 pm while the parkways in Gatineau Park are open from 6 am to 11 am. Check out the National Capital Commission’s website for maps and information on points of interest on or near the parkways.

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival

Have you been to Canada’s largest balloon festival running from September 1 to 5 at parc de la Baie in Gatineau, Quebec before? I haven’t but it sounds amazing! In addition to watching the spectacular balloons take flight, there are rides and live entertainment for the whole family.  Four or five day passes are available and kids 10 and under are free!

Ottawa Champions Baseball

As you know by now, my family is passionate about baseball. Thankfully, there is some exciting baseball action right here in Ottawa! I can’t believe we haven’t been to a game yet so this might be how we spend some of our long weekend. Head of to the ball park to see the Ottawa Champions close out the 2016 regular season with a four game set against the Quebec Capitales. On Monday, September 5, former National League Cy Young Award winner Eric Gagne will start for Ottawa. What a great opportunity to see a former major leaguer and help cheer on the Ottawa Champions as they prepare to make their first ever playoff run!

Canadian Museum of Nature – Ultimate Dinosaurs

Earlier this month, I wrote an article for www.savvymom.ca  about the Ultimate Dinosours exhibit at the Canadian Museum of Nature. If you haven’t had a chance to go, now’s the time – the exhibit will close on Monday, September 5. I hope to make it!

Load the Kids Up and Take a Drive!

As of this moment, the weather forecast for the long weekend in the Ottawa/Gatineau region is looking spectacular! Why not take the opportunity to hop in the car and go for a drive? Pack some snacks and head off to any one of the almost endless number of places to see within an hour(ish) of the Ottawa area! Here is a quick list of just a few of our favourites:

montebello

Enjoy the last long weekend of the summer!

2 Min Read July 25, 2016 No Reply

Around Ottawa: Family outings and activities for the August Long Weekend

Around Ottawa

If you are in Ottawa and looking for some family friendly, fun and unique activities to do over the August long weekend, I’ve rounded up a list that I think you’ll love.

If you end up staying home this weekend, browse my activities section for some creative crafts and games!

August Long Weekend in Ottawa:

Family Outings

Canadian Aviation and Space Museum – STAR TREK: The Starfleet Academy Experience

Get ready to geek out – this one is for kids young and old! As a new cadet recruit, this immersive experience will take you from student orientation through to graduation, and to the deck of an active Starship! Running daily until September 5, your ticket also includes FREE admission to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum and 50% admission at the Canada Agriculture and food Museum!

Ottawa International Buskerfest

Celebrating its 25th year, the Ottawa International Buskerfest has world-class performances and shows running on Sparks Street in the heart of Ottawa from July 28 to August 1.

Bytown Days

Head down to the Ottawa Locks on the Rideau Canal (between Parliament Hill and Chateau Laurier) to celebrate the creation of the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site and the history of Bytown. Events run daily from July 30 to August 1.

Capital Ribfest

FOOD! While in enjoying the long weekend in the Capital, why not grab a bite at the Capital Ribfest? Located in the Festival Plaza next to City Hall at 110 Laurier Street, this family friendly event offers live entertainment on top of all the yummy treats! A portion of the proceeds go to support the Ottawa Foodbank.

Glengarry Highland Games – Maxville, Ontario

Take the drive to Maxville, Ontario (about an hour east of Ottawa off Highway 417) to experience all things Scottish. The Glengarry Highland Games features music, dance, sports, fiddling, and more! I love that there are performances and activities that include all ages. Fingers crossed for amazing weather!

Northern Lights: Sound and Light Show

Come to Parliament Hill to experience a thrilling sound and light show that illuminates Canada’s history. This free show is presented nightly until September 10, 2016. (Note to self: My family needs to go here!)

 

What are your plans for the long weekend?

Long weekend activities in

0 Min Read May 24, 2011 No Reply

Ottawa Family Activities: Mothercraft Touch-A-Truck

Activities and Crafts, Around Ottawa, Giving, Kids

*** Looking for Touch a Truck 2014 information? Click Here! ***

What is it with our kids and their fascination with large trucks? My kids have always been so excited to see big trucks pass by, or better yet tractors and firetrucks that they can get really close to.

Luckily, there is a perfect family event happening in Ottawa this coming weekend – the Mothercraft Touch-A-Truck event.  Take the kids to see huge trucks and vehicles and let them get up close and personal with them.

Entry to the event is $5 each or $20 for an entire family and proceeds go to Mothercraft, a charity in Ottawa supporting parents.

It’s at Lincoln Fields shopping centre on Sunday May 29 from 10-3.  I am disappointed that I won’t be able to take the kids because of other commitments but I know they would have loved it!

Find out more information here.

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