Find ideas and inspiration for kid-friendly fun and a most memorable Family Day in the city.
From live classical performances and escape rooms to dining under the stars in a dome, you'll find something the whole family will enjoy. Family Day in Toronto, Ontario, is February 20, 2023—so start planning now.
Things to do for Family Day Weekend
See a live performance
For older kids who like classical music, Casa Loma hosts Twilight Symphony at the Castle. Guests are guaranteed a one-of-a-kind performance. Surrounded by candlelight, you’ll listen to classic scores from Hollywood's most memorable films or enjoy music from beloved arias to Broadway favourites.
Celebrate Black History Month
As part of Kuumba at Harbourfront Centre, Toronto's largest Black Futures Month celebration, you can join in on the thought-provoking performances and discussions. The dance, music, workshops and literary events highlight contemporary artists and thought leaders from the Afro-diaspora in Canada.
Toronto Black Film Festival celebrates its 11th anniversary from February 15 to 20. Get ready for an inspiring set of films, venues, round tables and online discussions.
Learn how to drum on February 18, as the Toronto Public Library hosts a drumming workshop celebrating Black History Month. Featuring Afro-Latin drummers, the all-ages workshop will be an authentic experience of afro roots and culture in Latin music.
Animal attractions
At the Toronto Zoo, families can enjoy over 10 km of wintery trails and visit the Canadian and Tundra animals in their natural winter habitats. Don't worry, there are tropical indoor pavilions to warm up.
Check out the Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Royal Ontario Museum and possibly encourage your budding photogs to enter the global competition in the future.
Take in the soothing views at Ripley’s Aquarium, where the jellies and other creatures are excited to SEA you!
For those looking to enjoy the fresh air while sneaking in a stroll, swing by Riverdale Farm. This turn of the century Ontario farm is open all year long and kids can see many farm animals even in the winter.
And if you’re looking for something unique, unleash that sense of wonder, discovery and curiosity at Little Canada. Here you’ll embark on a journey to discover the sights and sounds of Canada as you explore parts of the country on a miniature scale—keep an eye out for those animals in various cities!
Escape rooms for tweens and teens
If you enjoy games and puzzles, Toronto is home to many escape rooms. Each one weaves unique storytelling elements into its game.
Captive Rooms offers games for those 13 and older. Dream Escapes has a cocktail lounge for adults and allows players 11 and older to participate in their escape rooms. If you want to be spooked, the Butcher's Room at Round About calls your name.
Kid-friendly places to eat
Enjoy dinner in a dome
Jungle-themed Selva is hosting Selvierno, where you can enjoy dinner and play a few card games while gazing at the CN Tower.
While Proof Bar & Patio, located in The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel, offers Fine Dining Domes with a 3-course Luxury Prix-Fixe menu or a Light Lounge menu where you can enjoy a drink, appetizer and dessert.
Pinkies up for afternoon tea
Head over to Toronto’s castle, Casa Loma, for an over-the-top, classic tea service featuring a range of savoury and sweet offerings. There are two daily seatings during the Family Day weekend. Bonus: there are adult beverages for the parents too!
The Shangri-La Hotel Toronto Afternoon Tea is inspired by Chinese family traditions (perfect for continuing to celebrate the Lunar New Year). They also have a special tea that caters to the littlest explorers and supports Make-A-Wish International with a donation from every Kid’s Afternoon Tea until March 31, 2023.
Instagram-worthy eats
Tweens, teens and adults will be entertained at Toronto's geekiest bar, Storm Crow Manor. Think mind-boggling themed rooms, secret doors and glowing decor. Enjoy bubbling cocktails with mysterious names and a menu featuring comfort food to warm you up.
Fancy pretending you're living in the era of knights and fair maidens? Then make plans to visit Medieval Times, where your family will not only cheer on opposing teams but also enjoy a four-course feast while watching knights and squires battle it out.
For sweet treats, young kids are bound to love the toilet-themed dessert spot, Poop Cafe, where you not only sit on a toilet but also eat out of them!
Outdoor activities for Family Day Weekend
Yes, it's cold outside (this is Canada!), but there's so much fun to be had. Layer up and get ready to explore the city. There are winter workouts with scenic sights that the whole family will love, like snowshoeing on the Toronto Islands and more.
Yes, you can go to the Toronto Islands in winter.
Go tobogganing
Break a sweat pushing the kids down hills at Christie Pitts, Riverdale Park or Trinity Commons—all great spots for tobogganing! There are more than 20 toboggan hills in and around Toronto. Remember always to wear the proper safety gear and to make sure hill conditions are ideal.
Lace up and go ice skating
Choose from 54 city-run skating rinks or one of the beloved neighbourhood skating rinks to go ice skating. The Bentway is hosting a family day skate session on February 20 with a free, all-ages DJ Skate Party!
