Photo by Allen McGregor “Distillery District Christmas Market” on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

By Jaden Chiang

Winter is coming, which means it’s time to enjoy the season with your family and friends! This holiday break, while keeping safety in mind, take the opportunity to get back to in-person activities around the community. Here are some fun, family-friendly activities to check out:

1. Go for a walk around Main Street Unionville

Experience the hometown charm of Main Street Unionville, the heart of the community. Storefronts burst with holiday cheer, while lampposts and flourishing shrubs are bedecked with garland. As the sun sets, you’ll be taken to a different world as everything is illuminated with light. From rooves to reindeer and a ginormous ornament, a warm glow emanates. There are a variety of restaurants to visit, whether it is to grab a quick bite or indulge in a handcrafted treat. Plus, get in some holiday shopping at the local shops. Enjoy live musical performances in the square on the weekends. If you’re up to it, venture into the snow-dusted trails around Toogood Pond. Or, stop into the Varley Art Gallery to take in some beautiful works.

2. Go skating at the Civic Centre

It’s time to break out the winter gear! And what’s better than ice skating? Show off all your moves at the Markham’s Civic Centre’s outdoor rink. Bring out the entire family to partake in exhilarating exercise and light-hearted fun. Don’t have any skates? Skate rentals are available at the rink by Markham Skate Rentals.

3. Take a hike around the GTA’s trails

There are many trails and parks all over the GTA. Take your family out for a beautiful, brisk walk. Hike at the popular Saigeon Trail, spend a few hours at Lake Wilcox Park, take the 5km North Maple Regional Park nature walk, walk around the Milne Dam Conservation Park, or hike the trails of the Bob Hunter Memorial Park. Enjoy the cool air and snowy paths, and don’t forget to dress warm and ready to hike!

4. Head downtown to the Distillery District’s Winter Village

The Distillery’s Winter Village offers outdoor shopping, delicious dining, fun entertainment, and a wonderful holiday ambience in the Toronto historic district. Find some hidden gems in the local shops, offering handmade and unique goods. Mouth-watering smells will draw you into the restaurants to stop in for a meal or warm drink. Snap a few pictures at the decorated photo-ops that are all around the village. Don’t forget to bring your ID and proof of double vaccination to present at entry points. 

5. Stop by the Pride of Canada Carousel and drop off a toy for children in need

Located in the center of Downtown Markham, the Pride of Canada Carousel is housing a toy drive every weekend in December before Christmas. Drop off some toys to donate for those in need. If you’re hungry, visit the shops and restaurants at Downtown Markham, a 2 minute walk away from the carousel. 

Whether you’re up for an adventure, or looking to take perfect pictures for Instagram, there’s a whimsical, wintery place ready for you to visit just around every corner!