Summer Fun Events at Barrie Parks

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 incorporate nature-based educational programming that offers a unique and immersive learning experience fostering a deep appreciation for the environment, while providing valuable educational opportunities. City partners including the Barrie Public Library and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority may be in attendance on select days. Our free drop-in activities include:

• Nature Play Trailer: Play with various natural and man-made loose parts that encourage young people to engage with the natural world in a free, unstructured, and creative manner.  
• Self-Guided Nature Walks: Explore the park with a “Nat Pack” for a family-friendly adventure
• Self-Guided Story Walks: Take a tour on our Story Walk of the summer
• Nature Crafting station: Learn about nature while making a fun craft to take home

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. 

Reptile takeovers feature representatives from Scales Nature Park and the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. Wildlife takeovers feature representatives from Speaking of Wildlife. Jason George Photography will be 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.

New to the Sandy Shores Kitchen & Café this year, the Driftwood Portable Sensory Garden will allow kids to engage with the sensory nature of plants and discover the sights and smells of the garden. By incorporating live edible plants with play, children can experience various textures and learn about plants in a fun way.

City partners including the Barrie Public Library and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority may be in attendance on select days.

For the fourth 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.