Exciting news for youngsters in Ottawa!
The Cumberland Heritage Village Museum/City of Ottawa
Starting Saturday, April 15, the city of Ottawa will offer an array of free drop-in activities for children and youth aged 17 and under under “Play Free.” This initiative aims to make recreation and cultural programming more accessible and affordable, helping kids enjoy the health and social benefits of engaging in these activities.
Here’s what’s on the “Play Free” menu:
- Gym Sports: From April 15 to June 25, a variety of free sport drop-in sessions will be available, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, badminton, pickleball, skateboarding, roller skating, and Kindergym. Check out the schedule at your local recreation facility.
- Swim Saturdays: From June 3 to December 30, kids can enjoy free drop-in swimming sessions on Saturdays (except for wave swims).
- Museums: From June 24 to September 3, daily admission will be free for children and youth at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum and Billings Estate National Historic Site. Plus, Billings Estate will offer free drop-in activities for kids from July 7 to September 1.
- Skate: From September 16 to December 23, public and family skating sessions will be free for children and youth.
- Youth Weight and Cardio Memberships: From July 1 to August 31, Tony Graham Automotive Group and the City will team up to provide free weight and cardio summer memberships for youth at select City facilities.
Things to Do in Ottawa This Weekend
Play Free is all about ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate in recreational and cultural activities, regardless of their financial situation.
The City of Ottawa also offers financial support through the Ottawa Hand in Hand participant subsidy program. For more information, visit ottawa.ca.