The City offers free, family-friendly, drop-in activities in parks across the community throughout the summer, aimed at getting residents engaged in active play and nature!
About the Programming
Join us as we reclaim our green spaces and grow something beautiful together! The Lampman Community Garden is more than just a place to plant—it's a place where families, neighbours, and friends come together to connect, create, and cultivate community.
Programming led by Farmer Kim from Moondance Organic Gardens invites children and families to have fun, get involved, and learn about growing plants. This immersive experience encourages you to engage all your senses as you explore the connections between nature, wellness, and food.
This programming is structured for ages 2–12 and their families. This is not a drop-off activity; parents/guardians must remain on site.
Nature Play Days incorporates nature-based educational programming that offers a unique and immersive learning experience fostering a deep appreciation for the environment, while providing valuable educational opportunities. Our free drop-in activities include:
- Nature Play Trailer: The trailer houses a variety of natural loose parts and is a mobile way to connect with the community. Working with partners, the trailer brings environmental education and fun to you!
- Nature Crafting station: Learn about nature while making a fun craft to take home
- Nature Friends: Visit with our City partners, including the Barrie Public Library and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority to be in attendance on select days.
- Driftwood Garden: A sensory urban agriculture installation that offers hands-on learning opportunities focused on plant care and mental well-being. Throughout the growing season, it will be set up for events taking place at Painswick Park and St. Vincent Park only. Programming led by Farmer Kim from Moondance Organic Gardens invites children and families to have fun, get involved, and learn about growing plants. This immersive experience encourages people to engage all their senses as they explore the connections between nature, wellness, and food.
Neighbourhood Nights is a fun and free pop-up series happening Wednesday evenings in neighbourhoods across Barrie! In partnership with local community organizations, these evenings offer something for everyone: recreation activities, hands-on nature experiences and the Nature Trailer, and chances to connect with community services. Come out and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere right in your neighbourhood.
Let nature take over your day! This interactive event is geared around outdoor family learning. Learn about local wildlife, participate in hands-on activities and enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings. Be inspired and connect you with the environment.
Wildlife takeovers feature representatives from Speaking of Wildlife and the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. Reptile takeovers feature representatives from Scales Nature Park.
Jason George Photography is featured at all takeover events. Jason George is a wildlife photographer, presenter, and writer who recently relocated to the rural settings of Wasaga Beach to get closer to nature when he retired from teaching full-time to chase his passion for wildlife.
This programming is structured for ages 2–8 and their families. This is not a drop-off activity; parents/guardians must remain on site.
Play in our mud/sand kitchen! Engage in sensory play and enjoy outdoor activities at the beach. Kids can use their imagination to cook up all sorts of imaginary dishes and have fun getting their hands dirty while exploring and learning about nature.
City partners including the Barrie Public Library and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority may be in attendance on select days.
For the fifth consecutive year, the Summer Fun Trailer brings accessible recreation services and summer activities right to your neighbourhood, aiming to provide engaging outdoor fun for all. The wide range of equipment ensures there’s something fun for everyone, enhancing the enjoyment of your summer activities. Trailer contents include:
- Lawn games
- Sport balls (soccer, basketball, volleyball, football and more)
- Skateboards, scooters & helmets
- Arts & crafts
- And much more!
All items in the trailer are free to use and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must adhere to the Fair Play Policy when using the equipment. Equipment can be borrowed for free to use in the park on the same day. Equipment is suitable for all ages, but participants must be 12 years or older to sign out items.
Past Events
The following Summer Fun Events took place in 2025. All events were free and drop-in style.| Event Name | Time & Location |
|---|---|
| Hot Summer Night 2025 | Jul. 31, 6:00pm–8:00pm at Sunnidale Park |