TORONTO
KIDS &
BIRCHMOUNT GYMNASTICS CENTRE Classes walking to teens
Register on-line at:
www.birchmountgymnastics.com or Call us at: 416 292-4110
Aug 2013
Summer CampHalf & Full Days 1800 Birchmount Rd.
Toronto
Day Tripping Family-friendly destinations a short drive from the city p3
Port Authority Flicks Family movie night - on the beach! p4
AWESOME
AUGUST!
Savour the last days of summer! Events and Festivals, pgs 8-11
2 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 3
outdooradventures
Day Tripping! Five must-see destinations a short drive from the city With the summer half-over, there’s a good chance many families have run through the list of kid-friendly activities and destinations in the city - and the kids are starting to look bored! Luckily, there are literally hundreds of exciting, family-friendly destinations in Ontario, all within a few short hours’ drive from Toronto. Here are our top five picks for family summer daytrips. Pelee Island: From historical sites to shops, nature walks, and night life, Pelee Island provides visitors with loads of opportunities for fun. Whether taking a bike ride, going for a swim, or browsing through the local shops, Pelee Island can satisfy your desires. A number of public beaches can be found on the Island, offering a variety of different settings and bases, ranging from stone and shale to pebble and sand. Sunset Beach is on West Shore Road north of the
ferry docks, and East Park Beach is on East Shore Road just north of East West Road and includes a public campground. www.pelee.org Visit the Escarpment: The Niagara Escarpment is a massive ridge of fossil-rich sedimentary rock which began its formation 450 million years ago as the outer rim of a shallow sea known geologically as the Michigan Basin. The Escarpment soars 510 metres at its highest point and stretches an impressive 725 km from Niagara to Tobermory, offering hundreds of kilometres of potential opportunities for fun. The Niagara Escarpment Commission provides four separate driving tours online, Dufferin-Simcoe, Dufferin-Peel, Grey County, and Halton Region. Check them out with your kids, plan your route, and pile in the car!
www.escarpment.org Scenic Caves Eco Adventure Tour: The Scenic Caves, located in Blue Mountain, now offers an Eco-Adventure Tour, including a canopy walk through an enchanted forest, and a 1200-foot zip-line plunges high above the earth. In addition to the Eco Adventure Tour, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the historical caves; hike to scenic lookouts; and brave the longest suspension footbridge in Ontario. And kids enjoy a few additional attractions: mini-golf and Gemstone Mining -- a chance to pan for real semi-precious gemstones. www.sceniccaves.com Sandbanks Provincial Park: Located in Prince Edward County, Sandbanks is the perfect place to escape the city, with three beautiful sandy beaches, among the largest in Ontario. It also has the world’s largest fresh water sand bar and dune system. Nearby, there are several farm experiences you can book for just the day or overnight. Feed baby animals, interact with various farm animals, learn where our food comes from, ride horses and get lost in a corn maze. prince-edward-county.com River Run Rafting and Wildness Resort: From 6 to 86 years, this family style raft trip is great fun for adults as well as a wonderful experience for children. With
gentle whitewater on the middle channel, the famous Rocher Fendu section of the Ottawa River, offering 12-kilometers of gentle rapids, isolated islands and spectacular waterfalls. Everyone must be at least 6 years of age and 50lbs. www.riverrunrafting.com
Yamaha Music School
5075 Yonge St. 10th Floor Toronto M2N 6C6
FREE PREVIEW CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS www.yamahamusicschool.ca
416-224-5590
4 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
outdoorfun
Sail in Cinema Family movie night at Sugar Beach If family movie night is a big hit at your house, this August the Toronto Port Authority is giving you the opportunity to cozy up with the kids to watch a flick while sitting on the beach or swaying on a boat. So grab the popcorn, some blankets or comfy chairs and head out to Toronto Harbour’s Corus Quay! From August 15 to August 17, the TPA is hosting it’s annual Sail in Cinema. When the sun goes down at approximately 9:00 p.m., families are invited to view a PG movie projected from a one-of-a-kind 28-foot, two-sided screen on a barge in the harbour — about 50 feet from shore. The duel screen is visible from anchored boats and from the shoreline of Sugar Beach at 25 Dockside Dr. Whether you’re a land dweller or sailer, admission is free, but if you watch from the beach you will need
a ticket stub. Tickets are available online at www.sailincinema.com on a first come, first serve basis. This year, a different movie will play each night. All of the films are classics from the 1980s: • August 15- Ghostbusters • August 16- The Princess Bride • August 17- Back to the Future Trailers for all three movies can be viewed at www. sailincinema.com Sail in Cinema launched in 2011 to celebrate the Toronto Port Authority’s centennial year and welcomed thousands of Torontonians to the city’s newest waterfront. The event was so successful it is now a permanent fixture in Toronto’s summer calendar and continues to bring families together for great films, a great view and great company.
Toronto Port Authority
The Toronto Youth Music Theatre Company
for our 2013-2014 season Musical Theatre training at its finest for 11 to 17 year olds.
torontomusictheatre.com 416-986-0281 Register for an audition online. Book your appt. today for our outstanding 9-month program. 416-425-6062
Signet Christian School
…where talent, passion and skills grow together
To empower students through Christian Values to become leaders who will impact the world
95 Jonesville Crescent North York, Ontario Canada M4A 1H2
✓ JK to Grade 12 inclusive ✓ Strong academic programming ✓ Small class sizes ✓ Affordable tuition & sibling discounts ✓ French lessons from JK ✓ Music, drama & visual arts programs ✓ Experience caring teachers ✓ Before & After school programs ✓ Safe & secure location ✓ Everyday is Open House at SCS
www.signetschool.ca
Accepting New Students for Fall 2013
T: 416-750-7515 F: 416-750-7720 E: info@signetschool.ca
TORONTO
sales team lead
KIDS &
GEORGE AGELOPOULOS
publisher IAN PROUDFOOT
175 GORDON BAKER ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO M2H 0A2 TELEPHONE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 416.493.4400 METROLAND MEDIA TORONTO
regional director of operations BARRY BLACK
general manager MARG MIDDLETON
director of circulation
MIKE BANVILLE Toronto Kids & Families is published monthly. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No part of this regional director of advertising publication may by reproduced without the written permission WARREN ELDER director of creative services of the Publisher. Toronto Kids is in full compliance with the KATHERINE PORCHERON Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents retail sales manager Act. Call 416-493-4400 for more information. ANGELA CARRUTHERS
®
senior advertising features coordinator NICOLE LARKIN
TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 5
outdooradventure
Paddle the city Canoeing and kayaking aren’t just for cottage country - you can hit the water right here at home! The city is filled with river systems, Lakefront beaches and streams for you to explore. Take a journey through the waterways with skyscrapers as your back drop— a view you can’t get up north. Before you grab your paddles, here are a few local equipment rentals shops to grab all of your gear and take a lesson or two before embarking on a peaceful day on the water.
ADVENTURE TORONTO If you enjoy river paddling than stroke across the Humber River. Toronto Adventures offers large family canoe lessons and rentals on the
river. The 2HR Easy Kayak or Canoe lessons with rentals includes everything you need for your paddle. They provide you with a 30 minute beginners lesson before you embark on your scenic paddle of the city’s wildlife packed, slow moving Humber River that meanders through forest and marsh. All equipment is included like life jackets, paddles and safety kit. Once you complete the 30 minute lesson, you are free to take an hour and a half self guided tour. Toronto Adventure’s Sunnyside Social Paddles allow your family to embark on a journey under the Sir Wilfred Laurier Bridge and along Sunnyside’s beautiful beaches. The canoes end up at the Sunnyside Beach Cafe where the group enjoys the rest of the evening! Located a five minute walk from Old Mill Station at King’s Mill Park,
6 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
CB P
onnect, to be a etter
arent!
“Taking time to connect to your partner on a regular basis, without distractions, can lead to a stronger partnership and family.” John Sorensen Family Owner: Couples (Only) Resort, Muskoka-Algonquin Park. www.CouplesResort.ca
105 Riverwood Pkwy. For more information visit Torontoadventures.ca
HARBOURFRONT CAnoe and kayak centre For over 30 years the Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre has been one of the most popular urban paddling centres for group canoe tours and group kayaking. It offers everything from rentals, social paddles, group voyageur programs and youth camps. Paddle the waters along Toronto’s beautiful skyline and through the islands. Located at 283A Queen’s Quay W. For more information visit Paddletoronto.com.
Toronto Island On Centre Island, during the summer months, you can rent a canoe from the Boat Rental near the site of the old shrubbery maze. From there, families have the chance to paddle through the smaller streams in between the Toronto Islands, check out some wildlife, or even paddle over to Ward’s Island to see the century-old cottages. There is a limited supply, so be sure to get there early
mountain equipment co-op Rent a canoe at Mountain Equipment Co-Op located on King Street, just west of Blue Jay Way. The store rents canoes for single day use up to a full week. Grab the canoe and head to
your favourite water way, whether it be along the Don River, through the islands or in the Scarborough Bluff. Canoeing can be dangerous if you’re inexperienced or caught off guard. Make sure you and your kids wear appropriate safety gear, like lifejackets. Always stick close to shore when out on the lake, and avoid wearing heavy clothes that weigh you down in the water. Keep a safe distance from any water traffic that poses a threat, like motor boats that drag large wakes behind them, or sculling and rowing groups out training on the water. Above all, plan accordingly so that you’re not out on the water after the sun sets. Happy paddling!
ready, set, register! Kidville offers classes for newborns to age 6 in music & dance, gym and art and more – all under one roof! Register now for our Fall 2013 semester to get your free family membership and gain access to our state-of-the-art amenities. KIDVILLE - YONGE LAWRENCE VILLAGE
3420 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4N 2M9 416.483.7070 © 2013 KIDVILLE. KIDVILLE IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF KIDVILLE INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/KidvilleCanada FOLLOW US ON TWITTER twitter.com/KidvilleCanada
www.kidville.ca
GRAND OPENING SPECIAL* • $50
off first class
• Complimentary
Gold Membership upgrade
COUPON CODE
GO58
* OFFER EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 MUST MENTION CODE AT TIME OF PURCHASE OR ONLINE CHECKOUT
CONSUMER FEATURE
Kidville brings an exciting new concept in family activity to Canada
Enrolling NOW for FALL CLASSES Early Stages (4-6 yrs) & Main School (6-16 yrs)
FOR MORE INFO VISIT: Mary Long
Toronto West 16 Baby Point Rd Toronto M6S 2E9
416-255-2511
Cadence Allen Crawley Humbercrest United Church Open House Saturday, Sept. 14 at 11 am
Toronto East (new location in Mount Pleasant Village) 240 Manor Rd. East Manor Rd. Toronto M4S 1R8
416-844-2162
United Church Open House Satturday, Sept. 14 at 2 pm
www.stagecoachschools.ca
Kidville, a new community destination for parents and kids from newborn through age six, is coming to Canada with its first flagship location in Toronto’s Yonge Lawrence Village neighbourhood, opening August 24, 2013! Offering a wide range of fun, easily accessible classes and programs designed by early childhood development specialists, Kidville is an exciting new place where parents and kids can put creativity, fun, and familytime first. Already a proven success with families in more than 30 locations around the world, Kidville’s winning formula boasts a wide range of classes in music, dance, gym and art for infants, toddlers and children up to age six. Other premium services include an indoor supervised playspace,
hosted birthday parties, a retail boutique and exclusive tiered membership benefits, including a free Silver Membership with enrollment in any Kidville class! “Kidville is your nextdoor neighbour, your music and dance studio, your art room and your playground all rolled into one,” says Cathy Piedra- McKenzie, entrepreneur and President of Kidville Canada. “Our goal is to make parents’ lives better and easier by providing high quality activities, great locations and convenient scheduling options that meet families’ various needs. It really changes the way you feel about rushing your kids around to classes each week. ” A busy professional mom of two, PiedraMcKenzie saw a need in the local market for better options that would
serve young families and discovered the successful Kidville concept in New York City. It appealed to both her business and parenting savvy, so she partnered with Kidville’s corporate office to bring the franchise to Canada. Kidville Canada’s first flagship location will be Kidville -Yonge Lawrence Village in Toronto, featuring a large upscale facility opening in 2013. Additional franchise locations will rollout throughout the GTA and across Can- ada through 2016.
Kidville CEO Andy Stenzler says, “We couldn’t be more excited about entering the Canadian market. Cathy’s business savvy coupled with her passion for children make her the perfect partner to shepherd the Kidville brand in Canada.“ Registration for Fall has begun at www.kidville.ca, where flexible membership options and online class selection make it easy to plan activities for children of different ages, interests, and naptimes!
TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 7 CONSUMER FEATURE
sPecial
TicKeT
To learn more abouT our
discounTs & offers visit Theex.com
Let’s go to the EX! The Canadian National Exhibition will be opening its gates once again to the young and young at heart on August 16 through to September 2 in Toronto’s exhibition fair grounds. The CNE is back and better than ever, with an expanded array of offerings for families and kids of all ages. So put on the ball caps, slather on the sunscreen and head to the fair grounds for a day of fun! Your first stop — Kids’World! Tucked in the west end of the CNE, close to Dufferin Gate, is a big playground with on-stage entertainment and an array of interactive stations. All along Kids’ Street, children can roll up their sleeves for arts and crafts, interact with kid friendly animals, take part in magic shows, play music and much more. Kids can explore the world of an artist by creating projects like felted animal masks, painting sculptures, jungle beading and creating masterpieces in the PlayDoh play centre. If your family is feeling hungry, stop by Pizza Nova. The delicious pizzeria is giving kids a chance to make their own pizza with tips from pizza pros. When
they’re all done, they get a free slice of pizza for their hard work! The birds have flown the coop to return to the CNE this year for free-flight demonstrations presented by the Canadian Raptor Conservancy. Each show features five to seven distinctly different birds of prey including an eagle, hawk, falcon, owl and vulture. Also back by popular demand are the Reptile exhibit, Professor Wick’s School of Magic and Illusion, Splash ’N Boots and War of 1812 dress up area. Take a break from the sun and relax to watch the comedic juggler Craig Douglas put on a show. You’re in for a wild ride as bowling balls fly and he teeters a top a six foot unicycle. For more entertainment, head to the Variety Stage and The Bandshell for live music and talent shows. What’s the CNE without rides? Kiddie rides and games are located just next door to Kids’ World. If you’re adventurous, take a ride on the CNE Zip Line. For a great view, sit back and relax on the CNE Sky Ride which towers over the
crowd and extends across the grounds. Take a break from the rides and head over to the President’s Choice SuperDogs Show for its brand new music filled, honky tonk, extravaganza, Wild Wild Woof. Watch and cheer as the SuperDogs jump, weave and even line dance to good ole country music. Make your way over to the CNE’s Farm in the Better Living Centre to slow down and get acquainted with rural life including farm animals like pigs and ostriches. The kids can become farmers for the day! There is so much more to do and explore including the popular Canadian International Air Show on Labour Day weekend. Other special events include Ribfest, Food Truck Frenzy, Youth Film Festival and Warriors’ Day Parade. On Mondays, kids 13 years and younger get into the CNE for a toonie when accompanied by an adult. On Tuesday, August 27, kids 19 years and younger are free until 3:00 p.m. For more information on activities happening at the EX visit www.theex.com.
2
1
ALL EVENTS FREE WITH ADMISSION!† 1
Tic Toc: Acrobatic Show
2
The Farm
3
President’s Choice SuperDogs
4
Kids’ World
Daily
3
Daily Daily Daily
4
Info Line: 416.263.3330
Does not include rides. All programs subject to change.
†
8 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
augustevents Fort York Summer Programming
Aug 1 - 31 Thrill to the booming of the cannon, the firing of muskets, the vibrant colours of the uniformed guard and the lively music of fife and drum. These are the sights and sounds of Fort York this summer. Fort York National Historic Site 416-392-6907 www.toronto.ca/museums
Thursday Summer Nights at Gibson House
Thursdays in August Go back in time to a summer’s eve, circa 1851. Join in a game of croquet, relax on the porch and chat with neighbours and friends. Walk through the house and enjoy that feeling of being in a home with a history. Drop by the community quilt group and see what they are creating. Feel free to join in, if you wish. Children may explore the Discover Gallery. There will be games on the lawn for all ages. Activities will vary each week. Admission is pay-what-you-wish. Gibson House www.toronto.ca/museums
Tea and Tour Summer Sundays
Aug 1 - 31, 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm Visitors are invited to sit around the harvest kitchen table in the historic kitchen for a chance to relax, chat or reflect with tea and homemade cookies. If there is a breeze, there may be a chair or two on the sideporch available. A recent visitor described the house as an oasis on Yonge Street - so please come and enjoy our special place. Tea, time to unwind and a nibble are included with regular admission. Gibson House View map 416-395-7432 www.toronto.ca/museums
Summer JUMP IN Weekends at Scarborough Museum
Aug 3 - 31 JUMP on IN for some great family friendly activities at Scarborough Museum. Something new and exciting each summer weekend! Admission is Pay What You Can. Scarborough Museum 1007 Brimley Road, Scarborough, ON 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museums
Movies In The Park
Aug 4 & 18 Free, movie-screenings helping kids organizations. Bring a Picnic, bring your family and friends. Sunday August 4 – ET The Extra Terrestrial - Sunday August 18 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Free admission. Riverdale Park East www.moviesinthepark.wordpress.com
Anne of Green Gables: The Musical
Aug 8, 2013 to Aug 11, 2013 Presented by No Strings Theatre. Adapted from the novel by L. M. Montgomery. Toronto Centre for the Arts - Studio Theatre 416-733-9388 www.tocentre.com
Yonge-Dundas Square 10th Anniversary Celebration
Aug 9, 12:00 pm until 11:00 pm Yonge-Dundas Square’s 10th Anniversary Celebration features top-tier Canadian musicians, buskers, and other family entertainment, like jugglers and hula hoop dancers. Cost: Free. Yonge-Dundas Square ydsquare.ca/event/748-10th-anniversary-celebration
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
Aug 11, 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm Connecting to ideas of the body and theatricality as presented by artist Jimmy Robert in the exhibition Draw the Line at The Power Plant, kids will explore their own identity by making wearable self-portraits that convey a personal narrative. At the end of the workshop, they can wear their art home. For children ages 8–12 and their younger siblings and adult companions. Free. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery 416-973-4949 www.thepowerplant.org
Taking place over the 18 days leading up to and including Labour Day, the CNE offers a wide variety of entertainment and events including Bandshell concerts, celebrity chef demonstrations, an aerial acrobatics and ice skating show, a dog show, a working farm, parades and a three-day Air Show, all of which are FREE with admission to the CNE. Midway rides and games, wacky fair food as well as international food and shopping are also popular highlights of this major Toronto event. Exhibition Place 416-263-3330 www.theex.com
Walk for the Children 2013
Amazing Acro-Cats and Rock Cats
POWER KIDS: I Wear My Heart On My Sleeve
Aug 11, 8:30 am until 1:00 pm Walk for the Children puts a unique spin on your typical fundraising walk. Spend the day with your family, perusing the highly anticipated Giant Panda Experience! More than just a day at the Zoo - kids get a special “explorer passport” and collect stamps along the route, adding to their sense of adventure. The walk ends at the Savannah site with a picnic lunch, live children’s entertainment, games, free gifts and great prizes. Toronto Zoo www.walkforthechildren.ca
AT WOODBINE SHOPPING CENTRE
Aug 17 - 18, 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Making its Canadian debut at PawsWay the Amazing Acro-Cats it’s a show unlike anything you’ve ever seen! The Amazing Acro-Cats delight and astound audiences of all ages as they perform their remarkable feats of agility pushing carts, riding skateboards, rolling barrels, ringing bells, turning on lights, walking tight ropes, jumping through hoops, and much more! PawsWay 416-360-7297 www.pawswayacrocats.eventbrite.com
Aloha Toronto
Aug 24 - 25 The 2nd annual festival to be held at beautiful Cherry Beach on August 24 & 25, in Toronto features Hawaiian culture that includes live entertainment, food and legendary surfers from the North Shore. Free. Cherry Beach www.alohatoronto.com
Tommy Thompson Park Butterfly Festival
Aug 24 The 5th annual Tommy Thompson Park Butterfly Festival will celebrate this incredible migration by welcoming children, families and nature lovers to learn more about butterfly conservation and biodiversity. Through the many activities, nature hikes and educational displays at this year’s FREE event, visitors can discover the more than 55 species of butterflies and moths recorded to date at the park. Free. Tommy Thompson Park 416-661-6600 ext5770 www.butterflyfest.ca
Wild Blueberry Festival at Evergreen Brick Works
Aug 25, 11:00 am until 3:00 pm Enjoy the delicious tastes and special guest vendors of the Sunday Marché and be a judge in our annual Wild
Ontario's Largest Indoor Amusement Park
MORE! RIDES, GAMES & MORE! Ferris Wheel, Train, Carousel, Arcade, Bumper Cars Visit fantasyfair.ca for details Hwy 27 & Rexdale Blvd | 416-674-5437 | fantasyfair.ca
Blueberry Pie Bake-off—featuring some of Toronto’s top bakers. Or dance to the sounds of local musicians as you dig into a blueberry gardening workshop. Free. Evergreen Brick Works 550 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON 416-596-7670 www.ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/special-events/ wild-blueberry-festival
Pinkalicious The Musical - Extended! Aug 25 Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this predicament. Due to the popularity of this show, advance tickets are suggested. Lower Ossington Theatre 100A Ossington Avenue, Toronto, ON 416-915-6747 www.lowerossingtontheatre.com For more July events, visit www.Toronto4kids.com
TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 9
ongoingevents African Arts and Culture Festival at Toronto Zoo
Jul 2 - Sep 2 Back by popular demand, the Toronto Zoo is proud to offer our visitors an experience of African Culture in our own African Savanna. Visit one of the many artist booths and taken home and article of authenticity, including handcrafted wooden masks, soapstone and ebony carvings, hand-woven textiles, painted candles, traditional African musical instruments and more! FREE with admission! Toronto Zoo 416-392-5929 www.torontozoo.com
BIG at the ROM
Until Sep 13 This wide-ranging ROM exhibition showcases textiles and costume that are each in their own remarkable ways BIG… BIG in size, BIG in historical importance, BIG in the news, perhaps created by a BIG name, and often carrying a BIG price tag. Royal Ontario Museum 416-586-5797ext1 www.rom.on.ca
Buster Canfield and His Amazing Fleas!
Until Aug 10 - 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Ladies & Gentlemen Boys and Girls of all ages! Step right up and behold the most miraculous manifestation of mite-sized marvelosity ever to appear on any stage! Buster Canfield & His Industrious Fleas is a TYA play for solo actor, puppets, masks, parlour magic, and the Greatest Humbug Flea Circus ever seen on any stage! Tickets $12.50 in advance. $15 at the door. Theatre Direct’s Wychwood Theatre www.pocketcarnival.com
Born to be Wild
Ongoing Born to be Wild is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them – saving endangered species one life at a time. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
CATS
Until Sep 1 The longest-running musical in the history of London’s West End. Loved by millions around the world. Be one of the first to experience an allnew Canadian production of CATS. There’s no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic of CATS. Panasonic Theatre 416-872-1212 www.mirvish.com
Shoemaking Traditions from Around the World
Until Dec 31 Join us for our newest exhibition highlighting the history of shoemaking traditions, many of which are slowly disappearing. Bata Shoe Museum www.batashoemuseum.ca
youngest visitors and lasts no longer than 20 minutes to accommodate wandering minds and little feet. All participants receive a certificate of landing on the moon and a follow-up activity guide. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Flight of the Butterflies at Ontario Science Centre
Family Days at Gardiner Museum
Ongoing It was a Canadian who engaged the world’s first team of citizen scientists, found the secret hideaway of the monarch butterflies and discovered the most incredible migration on Earth – a scientific adventure at its best. Follow the story and year-long, multi-generational migration cycle of hundreds of millions of monarchs from their remote overwintering sanctuaries in Mexico, across the U.S. to Canada. New IMAX film. Ontario Science Centre 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Free Flicks 2013 at Harbourfront
July 3 - Aug 28 Skip the same old movie theatre experience and try something new – watch films under the stars at Harbourfront Centre! All films are free and screened every Wednesday night from July 3-Aug. 28. Harbourfront Centre www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Game On 2.0: An Exhibition at the Ontario Science Centre
Until Sept 2 Play your way through the history and evolution of video games with over 150 influential games. Game On 2.0 focuses on key game developments between 1962 and today, and takes a global perspective at gaming’s fascinating past and limitless future. Ontario Science Centre 416-696-1000 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Hands in the Bowl at Evergreen Brick Works
Saturdays in August Caregivers and children aged 4 to 7 are invited to come roll up their sleeves and learn how to mix, grate, mash, and eat their delicious creations! This fun family program engages all the senses while sparking a life-long love of food in the youngest among us. No registration required. Space is limited to a maximum of 12 children. $5 suggested donation. Evergreen Brick Works 416-596-1495 ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/kids-families/hands-in-the-bowl
Eyes on the Skies at the Science Centre
Ongoing This one-of-a-kind, lively program introduces pre-school children to the night-time sky through singing, connect-the-stars constellations and a journey to the moon. The program was designed especially for our
Every Sunday, 9 - 1 to 4 pm Bring the whole family to the Gardiner for fun-filled days with programming geared towards the kids. Free with admission, and kids under 12 get in for free if accompanied by an adult. Includes films, tours for kids, craft tables & more. Gardiner Museum 416-586-8080 www.gardinermuseum.com
Family Fun Fridays at Ontario’s Legislative Assembly
Until Aug 30 Family Fun Fridays offer the opportunity to explore Ontario’s historic Legislative Building and learn how Parliament functions on a daily basis. Children aged 6-10 are welcome to participate in a scavenger hunt throughout the grounds, dress up in official robes for a mock debate, and ask as many questions as possible. Cost : Free Ontario Legislative Building, Queen’s Park 416-325-0061 www.educationportal.ontla.on.ca/en/tours/public-tours/publictours/family-fun-fridays
Hockey Hall of Fame - Stanley’s Game Seven (3D)
Until Dec 31, 2014 Hockey’s first 3D film is a stunning mix of 3D originally filmed hockey action teamed with computer-generated photo-realistic 3D animation and classic archival footage from some of the most renowned moments in Stanley Cup history – the film literally jumps off the screen. Hockey Hall of Fame 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com
Hockey Hall of Fame NHL Team Fan Days
Until Aug 23 Celebrating hockey fans one team at a time! On 30 selected days this summer, the Hockey Hall of Fame will spotlight a different NHL team. The first 1,000 guests with paid admission on these days will receive a free Hockey Hall of Fame “Game-Worn Jersey” trading card of the featured team’s captain. Show up wearing the apparel of the scheduled team and receive half price admission and a chance to win prizes including a trip to the 2014 NHL Winter Classic. Hockey Hall of Fame 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com
Junior Jays Saturdays
Until Sep 28 Bring your family to the ballpark for Jr. Jays Saturdays for every Saturday home game. Kids can visit our Jr.Jays zones located on the concourse to take part in many fun interactive activities to keep them entertained all game long. Each Jr. Jays Saturday kids can visit one of our Jr. Jays Zones located on the concourse. Kids can take part in many fun activities to keep them entertained all game long! Rogers Centre toronto.bluejays.mlb.com
Nature Play at Evergreen Brick Works
Until Aug 31, 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Come join us in Chimney Court, meet our animators and take part in projects, crafts and games of an elemental theme! This unique program and dynamic space requires parents and guardians to supervise their children while co-creating a magical world of possibilities. $5 suggested donation. Evergreen Brick Works 416-596-1495 ebw.evergreen.ca
Princess Polly and the World’s Smallest Ninja
Until Sep 1 It’s not always fun being the smallest. Unless you are the world’s smallest ninja! This summer, The Second City is pleased to bring you a hilarious new adventure for all ages, Princess Polly and the World’s Smallest Ninja. The Second City 416-343-0011 www.secondcity.com
Shakespeare in the Park
Until Aug 31 This summer, see Shakespeare’s powerful tragedy Macbeth and early comedy The Taming of the Shrew under the stars. Both works will be playing outdoors throughout the summer on alternate nights, a rare repertoire summer at Shakespeare in High Park. This pay-what-youcan event is one of Toronto’s favourite traditions. High Park Amphitheatre www.canadianstage.com
Summer Music in the Garden at Harbourfront
Until Sep 13 Our wildly popular garden music series returns as the country’s best musicians perform in the magical setting of the Toronto Music Garden. Free garden tours Wednesday at 11 a.m. and Thursday pre-concert at 5:30 p.m. Harbourfront Centre www.harbourfrontcentre.com FOR MORE ONGOING EVENTS, VISIT WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM
Guiding is the place for today’s girls and women Girl Guides offers girls and women fun-filled opportunities to discover new interests, use their talents, challenge themselves and learn valuable leadership and life skills. Our programs explore issues that are important to girls, giving them the tools they need to be confident, courageous and resourceful, and to make a difference in the world. REGISTER TODAY! Make a difference in the lives of girls and they’ll make a difference in yours. VOLUNTEER TODAY!
For more information visit www.girlguides.ca or call 1-800-565-8111
10 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
familyfun
August festivals in the GTA Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto
JerkFest: Jerk Food Festival
Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games
Mabuhay Philippines Festival
August 1 to 12, 2013 Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, revelry as well as visual and performing arts. www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com August 9 to 11, 2013 This festival celebrates everything Scottish! There are children’s activities such as dance lessons, story-telling, competitions, Highland dancing, piping, and many other entertaining events. www.fergusscottishfestival.com
Fortune Cooking
August 9 to 11, 2013 Fortune Cooking features the best dishes, restaurants, music, dance, and artists from East Asia to Southeast/South Asia. Free admission. www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Pilaros Taste of the Danforth
August 9 to 11, 2013 Greektown Taste of the Danforth showcases the best of Hellenic food, culture, and music - from souvlaki to mezes, authentic Greek music, to interactive children’s games! www.tasteofthedanforth.com
August 10 to 11, 2013 Staged at the beautiful Centennial Park in Etobicoke, JerkFest offers great jerk food and fun for the entire family, with more prizes and surprises this year. www.jerkfestival.ca August 16 to 18, 2013 Immerse in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Philippines right here in Toronto at the Harbourfront Centre. http://pidctoronto.com/mabuhay-philippines-2013
Garlic is Great Festival
August 17, 2013 Calling all garlic lovers! Cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and garlic vendors. www.newmarket.ca
Burlington’s Children’s Festival
August 17 to 18, 2013 A whole weekend of circus themed free family fun on Burlington’s beautiful waterfront. Play on Burlington’s beautiful beach and enjoy a sand sculpting demonstration, workshops, music, and fun. www.burlington.ca/childrensfest
Pledge to NOT leave your pet in your vehicle!
Visit nohotpets.ca
TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 11 CONSUMER FEATURE
Take the kids on a Scenic Caves Nature Adventure!
York-Eglinton International Street Festival
August 17 to 18, 2013 An annual event that showcases the diversity of Toronto’s communities. A full street closure event that boasts live music, dance lessons, spectacular sales, incredible food, and a fantastic street-level carnival. www.internationalstreetfest.com
There’s still half a summer left to enjoy with the kids. Fill it with adventure at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, near Collingwood. One of Canada’s great natural wonders,thisoutdoorplayground offers everything kids love to do. Located just a short drive away, makes it perfect for a day trip. Kids like climbing. There are cavesandcavernsfilledwithhuge boulders. They’ll spend hours at the Adventure Playground with junior and senior level rock climbing walls, slides, ride-ons, rope walks and spinners. Kids love to explore. Discover the legends and sacred hiding places of the Huron Petun tribe on the self-guided tour. Departing from the Big Rock Railroad Station, hitch a ride on Rocky the train and
Scotiabank BuskerFest
August 22 to 25, 2013 4 days and 4 nights of continuous non-stop, side-splitting hilarity! Takes place in the Downtown Yonge Street Neighbourhood in support of EPILEPSY Toronto. Admission is by voluntary donation. www.torontobuskerfest.com
TELUS TAIWANFest
August 23 to 25, 2013 Held at the Harbourfront Centre, this festival features tantalizing cooking demonstrations, musical performances by some of the top acts in Taiwan, and much more. www.taiwanfest.ca
Tommy Thompson Park Butterfly Festival
August 24, 2013 The 5th annual Tommy Thompson Park Butterfly Festival will celebrate the incredible Monarch migration by welcoming children, families, and nature lovers to learn more about butterfly conservation and biodiversity. Through the many activities, nature hikes, and educational displays, visitors can discover the more than 55 species of butterflies and moths recorded to date at the park. www.butterflyfest.ca
Rastafest
August 24, 2013 Rastafest is a multi-disciplined festival showcasing diffrent aspects of the rastafari culture. www.downsviewpark.ca/events/rastafest
Hispanic Fiesta
August 30 to September 2, 2013 Salsa, cumbia, merengue, vallenato, and mariachi are some of the expected musical treats. Spanish Flamenco dancing, tango show, Spanish
food, and an arts and crafts exhibition serve as other key highlights. www.hispanicfiesta.com
Hot & Spicy Food Festival
August 30 to September 2, 2013 Set your temperature soaring! The Hot & Spicy Food Festival features a fiery palette of hot and spicy food, music, dance, and the always-popular Iron Chef Competition. www.harbourfrontcentre.com/summer/ FOR MORE SUMMER FESTIVALS, VISIT WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM
view the life-size wooden animal carvings. Dare to cross the 420 ft. Suspension Bridge offering spectacular 10,000 sq. km. views of Georgian Bay from the highest point of the Niagara Escarpment. Kids are fascinated by rocks. Not only can they hike through eighteen geological features, they can also try their hand at panning for gemstone treasures at a man-made water tower, using a screening tray. Rock hounds can purchase unusual semi-precious stones for their collection at the gift shop. And kids like to play. The minigolf course offers a variety of obstacles for all ages. Feed the fish in the trout pond.
Kids 10 years and older love ziplining (height and weight minimums required). The new Thunderbird Twin Zip Line sends them soaring for a half mile on Canada’s longest twin zip experience. The guided Eco Adventure Tour leads visitors through the UNESCO designated biosphere high up in the treetop canopy along a web of platform decks and airborne walkways for a squirrel’s eye view of the flora and fauna. For added excitement, zip down a 300 ft. forest and a 1000 ft. escarpment zip line. Reservations required. It’s guaranteed to be a day of outdoor adventure the whole family will love! For additional details www.sceniccaves.com
s e v a C c i n e c S t a n u Great Family F RUNNING / HIKING SHOES REQUIRED
NEW
Canada’s Longest Twin-Zip Line!
FEATURING... • 420 ft Suspension Bridge • Caves / Caverns to Explore • THUNDERBIRD 1/2-mile Twin-zip Ride • Mini–golf • Gemstone Mining • Big Rock Railroad • Snack Bar • Picnic Area • Fish Pond • Kids Adventure Playground • Fabulous Panoramic Views • Gift Shop
1-1/2 Hrs North of Toronto on Scenic Caves Road, near Collingwood www.sceniccaves.com 705-446-0256
12 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
playtime
Lights, sounds, action!
Cars come to life with Tagamoto’s Code the Road Tagamoto is bringing mini toy cars to life by Coding the Road. Not your conventional toy car racetrack, Tagamoto’s Code the Road Enforcer Road Set by Hexbug is using sensory coded stickers to give toy cars real car sounds, lights and lots of live action. There are over 15 realistic sounds that emerge when The Enforcer (police car) and Blaze (the sports car) play a game of cat and mouse around the track. The vehicles drive over the coded stickers to stop, start, crash, break down, get repaired and more! Suitable for ages four years and up, kids get a chance to build their own city with over 65 easy connect pieces and fun stickers to place on the street signs. Once the track is in place, it’s time to make
your engines rev! Kids can create a custom city of sounds by placing the bar code stickers all over the track- the stickers need to be facing the same direction and spaced out so drivers get the most out of the sounds and lights. Tagamoto is taking creativity to a whole new level with its sensory technology. Code the Road comes with more than 30 bar code stickers, which have an adhesive backing, allowing them to be moved and reused for hours of fun. The coded stickers make every driving experience different, and the track gives kids the chance to interact with action packed pieces like a working toll-booth, stop sign and park-
SUMMER MATINEES
TICKETS $14 • FAMILY 4-PACKS $45
ing spaces. Kids can have fun moving levers to direct cars into parking spots, lifting the arm at the toll both to let cars pass and turning the stop sign to make the cars stop. If you’re traveling with your kids and you don’t have room for the track, the toy cars work on their own as off road and free roll cars, perfect on a table or floor. For off roading, press the “on” button and hold down for four
seconds. Engage free roll by pulling down the wheels one at a time until you hear a click and away you roll! Kids can collect 24 cars to add to their Code the Road track. There are twelve sports cars with lights and 12 sports cars with lights and sounds to choose from in an array of colours. The cars are all battery operated by two Ag13/ LR44 button cell batteries, which are included. For more information on Tagamoto’s Code the Rode, visit www.Tagamoto.com.
AN ADVENT FOR ALL AGURE ES!
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TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 13
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14 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
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Loot Lady
Party & Event Loot Bags, Balloons, Toys & Treats. Visit our store or shop Online 3029 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Toronto ON M8V 1K5
416-503-9108 www.lootlady.com
LEGACY OF DANCE ACADEMY Celebrating 20 Years
FALL SEASON EARLY REGISTRATION NOW ON. For open house dates please visit our website
Ages 2.5 yrs up
Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre, Hip-hop, Modern, Birthday Parties, Adult Drop In Classes
Summer Camp Ongoing August 12-16th • Ages 5-16
416-492-4491
4077 Gordon Baker Rd. (at Pharmacy Ave.) Toronto, Ontario, M1W 2P3 www.legacyofdance.com
PIANO LESSONS
Classical, Jazz, Pop 25 years teaching experience Clean and Safe Environment
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Michael Gfroerer 647. 701.3919 michaelgfroerer@gmail.com
For All Your Performance Requirements Dance - Skating - Gymnastics Now Featuring “Pointe Shoes”
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Call 647.428.8586 or Visit www.southsidemuaythai.ca
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TORONTO KIDS - August 2013 | 15
Certain terms and conditon apply. Call and speak with a Vacation Specialist to discuss your Vacation needs!
16 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2013
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