Thursday, March 28, 2024

13 things to do with your family during Spring Break

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If you’re looking for some family-friendly activities to keep your kids busy during spring break, below is a list of 13 places you can visit in Greater Victoria during spring break and best of all, some of these activities are free!

Branch Out 

  • What: Dig in the dirt. Hosted by Esquimalt Recreation Centre in celebration of International Day of the Forests. All equipment and light refreshments provided. Dress for the weather.
  • When: Tuesday March 21 from 10:00am – 1:00pm
  • Where: Esquimalt Gorge Park
  • Admission: FREE

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

  • What: Educational and economical form of entertainment for the whole family. The Beautiful farm which is home to pigs, goats, birds, chickens, llamas, peacocks and so much more. Don’t miss the all time favourite goat stampede at 10:10 am and 4:10 pm. Pack a lunch, stay for the day and explore Beacon Hill Park.
  • When: Open daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm
  • Where: Located within Beacon Hill Park
  • Admission: By donation

March Break Movies – Family Favourites

Goldstream Nature House

  • What: Walk in the forest. The Goldstream Nature House provides something for all ages. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.  “Situated at the base of Mount Finlayson and the mouth of the Goldstream River, the Goldstream Nature House boasts amazing views and a cozy, inviting atmosphere.  Opened to the public as a Nature House in 1976, this building was originally constructed for the Victoria Rod and Gun Club in the 1950’s.  The Goldstream Nature House (also known as the Freeman King Nature House named after a famous park naturalist) is backed by over 40 years of history in interpretation and environmental education!”
  • When: Open daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm
  • Where: Goldstream Provincial Park
  • Admission: By donation

Swan Lake Trails

  • What: Educational programs for the family to enjoy over Spring Break. From the fossil fair, mighty mammals, super snake, picnic on the hill, explore the nature house, take a nature hike, and so much more.
  • When: open daily from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, various activities taking place each day.
  • Where: 3873 Swan Lake Road
  • Admission: By donation

Geocaching

  • What: Did you know there are more than 2 million geocaches around the world? Geocaching is often referred to as the world’s biggest treasure hunt, give it a go this spring break.
  • When: Anytime
  • Where: Everywhere
  • Cost: FREE

Butterfly Gardens

  • What: Make new friends – of a different kind.  The INSECTARIUM is now open at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. As you wander through our tropical jungle, we want you to meet our family. With surprises at every turn, you’ll encounter poison dart frogs, tortoises, large iguanas, flamingos, tropical ducks, free-flying tropical birds and more.”
  • When: open daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Explore until 5:00 pm
  • WHERE: Victoria Butterfly Gardens, 1461 Benvenuto Avenue
  • Admission: $16.50/adults, $11/senior and students (with ID), $6/children (5-12 yrs) and under 4 is FREE

Royal BC Museum + IMax

  • What: “Rediscover the Treasure of Our Galleries.” View various exhibitions on the history of British Columbia. Take in a viewing at the IMax Theatre – see showtimes for Under the Sea, Tiny Giants 3D, Rogue One Star Trek, Extreme Weather and Dream Big.
  • When: Daily from 10:00am – 5:00pm
  • Where: 675 Belleville Street
  • Admission: See website for rates

Buzz about Bees

  • What: A buzzing’ good time! Sing along to bee songs, create bee crafts and bee spit to taste. Drop in event, meet at the Nature Centre off Munn Road. Wheelchair accessible.
  • When: Wednesday March 22 from 11:00am – 2:00pm
  • Where: Francis King Regional Park
  • Admission: FREE

Lego Exhibit

  • What: View Lego rather than stepping on it. This year’s exhibit includes the street scene with all the buildings including the theatre, detectives office, Parisian restaurant, city hall and fire hall and much more. ‘Friends’ are joined by ‘Elves’ and Disney’s ‘Fantasy Castle’ is magnificent. Also, there is a spectacular Star Wars diorama depicting the Hoth Planet, with the Imperial forces attacking the rebels. The giant bucket wheel is joined by the Porsche 911 GT3 and many more new models.
  • When: Open daily, 10:00 to 4:00.
  • Where: Sidney Museum and Archives, 2423 Beacon Avenue
  • Admission: by donation

Spring Break Swim

Spring Break Skate

  • What: Double Salchow? Or, just try not to fall.  Local recreation centres offer affordable public skates, again, most with an expanded schedules over spring break.  Check your local centre for schedule and special ice activities over spring break. Admission rates apply, please see websites for rates.
  • Oak Bay Recreation Centre from 1:30 – 3:00 pm (Mon, Thurs, Fri)
  • Esquimalt Recreation Centre from 1:00 – 2:50pm
  • Westshore Recreation Centre – regular schedule in effect
  • Panorama Recreation Centre – regular schedule in effect
  • SEAPARC – regular schedule in effect

Capture your favourite moments.

  • What: Set out on a photo shoot. Choose a location or a theme and spend the day taking photos. Get inspired by the Spring Photo Show at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre.
  • When: Anytime. // Annual Esquimalt Photography Club Spring Photo Show, open daily 5:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Where: Anywhere. // Photo Show: Esquimalt Rec Centre, 527 Fraser St
  • Cost: FREE

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