Get ready for a season of fun, learning, and memories to last a lifetime! Thunder Bay’s Winter FunDays, a beloved tradition since 2012, are returning with a host of free, family-friendly activities designed to celebrate all the wonders of winter. From January 5 to March 16, 2025, families can explore both indoor and outdoor experiences every Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re skating on the beautiful rinks at Marina Park, crafting with CAHEP at the Baggage Building Arts Centre, or participating in exciting new activities like the Ice Bikes at Northwood Playfields, Winter FunDays offers something for every family member to enjoy. Check out our exclusive Interview with Brayden Cassidy, Community Program Developer at City of Thunder Bay, to learn more about these educational winter opportunities and how they can engage students and their families throughout the season!
Last year's winter spotlight featuring our blog on Thunder Bay Bucket List Things To Do was such a hit that we knew we had to follow it up to delve deeper into their family-friendly programming! Beyond the fun, Winter FunDays also provides a unique opportunity for hands-on seasonal learning. The in-person and online tutoring team at Teachers on Call had the opportunity to speak to Brayden Cassidy, Community Program Developer for the City of Thunder Bay to learn about how families can take advantage of the many educational activities offered through partnerships with Let’s Talk Science and Science North. Engage with interactive programs that explore the science behind Thunder Bay’s winter environment, or try something new like Bannock making with the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. With so many chances to learn while having fun, Winter FunDays is the perfect way to make lasting memories and discover something new about the world around you. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to kick off Winter FunDays and connect with your community and embrace the beauty of winter!
Check out our Exclusive Interview with Brayden Cassidy, Community Program Developer at City of Thunder Bay
How long has The City of Thunder Bay been hosting Winter FunDay events?
Since 2012, The City of Thunder Bay has been offering free winter programming through Winter FunDays. Over the years, Winter FunDays has become a cornerstone of family programming, providing recreational, engaging, and hands-on experiences to brighten the colder months.
Can you tell us a little about the Winter FunDays event and what families can expect this year?
Winter FunDays offers free winter programming for the whole family every Sunday from January 5 to March 16, 2025, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Exciting indoor and outdoor activities that celebrate the magic of winter will take place at Prince Arthur's Landing, the Baggage Building Arts Centre, (2200 Sleeping Giant Pkwy, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 0E7) and various neighbourhoods across the city. Families can enjoy outdoor recreational activities and then warm up inside the Baggage Building Arts Centre while getting creative with CAHEP (Community Arts & Heritage Education Project).
What are some of the highlights of Winter FunDays that you think families absolutely shouldn’t miss?
Every week features a fresh and exciting program! From outdoor recreational and educational activities to indoor arts programming at the Baggage Building Arts Centre, there’s something for everyone. I encourage families to explore both indoor and outdoor locations to make the most of their experience. Marina Park (Marina Park Dr, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 0E8) offers free parking on Sundays, so bring your skates and winter gear to enjoy all the recreation and beauty the park has to offer after making art with CAHEP.
Are there any new activities or features for kids of all ages to enjoy?
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce a Winter FunDays first: Mosswood Adventures Ice Bikes! On February 2, 2025, at the Northwood Playfields, participants can ride specially designed bicycles on a skating rink. This partnership brings an exciting new way to enjoy winter, and we can’t wait to share it with the community.
Thunder Bay is known for its stunning outdoor spaces—how does the Winter FunDays event showcase the natural beauty of the area?
Thunder Bay’s natural beauty is on full display during Winter FunDays. Whether it’s the lakeside views at Marina Park or the serene forest surroundings at West Arthur Community Centre (1914 Arthur St W, Thunder Bay, ON P7K 1C7), each program location highlights the charm of our city. By hosting outdoor activities, we encourage participants to embrace the season, get outside, and discover the unique joys of winter.
What are some of the most popular winter games and activities families can participate in? Are there any surprises in store for visitors this year?
Skating is always a crowd favourite during Winter FunDays. Many programs are held near rinks, so families can bring their skates and enjoy some time on the ice. On February 2, we have an “ice-centric” day featuring hockey drills with the Kam River Fighting Walleye on one rink and Ice Bikes on another. Snowshoeing is also a popular activity and will be offered twice this season.
For those who have never attended Winter FunDays, what advice would you give to help them get the most out of the event?
I recommend checking our website each week to plan your Sunday. Some programs are hosted near community pools, combining outdoor fun with free public swims. Preparing for the activities you’re most excited about is key. To get the full experience, spend about 45 minutes at both the indoor and outdoor programs. To check out program details, head over to our website.
Can you share a few local must-try winter experiences or spots that families could check out around the event area?
At Marina Park, families can enjoy skating on one of our most picturesque outdoor rinks, complete with a fireplace centerpiece, after participating in indoor arts programming with CAHEP. The park also offers maintained trails with stunning views of Nanabijou (The Sleeping Giant). Beyond Winter FunDays, Thunder Bay has plenty of recreational opportunities, including ski hills, outdoor rinks, and walking trails across the city.
We know it can get pretty chilly in Thunder Bay during the winter months. Where should families visit for a hot chocolate or delicious treat while enjoying the WinterFunDays activities?
Thunder Bay has a fantastic selection of local cafes and eateries. While exploring Winter FunDays locations, stop by the nearest café to support local businesses and warm up with a treat. If you’re at Marina Park, I highly recommend visiting one of the many dining options on-site at Prince Arthur's Landing, conveniently located near the Baggage Building Arts Centre.
Are there any community collaborations or partnerships that make this year’s Winter Fun Days extra special?
Winter FunDays wouldn’t be possible without our amazing community partnerships. These collaborations allow us to offer free drop-in programming all winter long. Winter can often feel isolating, so it’s heartwarming to see the community come together to create engaging activities for everyone.
For all the STEM fans, what can attendees expect from the winter science programming days with Let’s Talk Science and Science North?
Our partnerships with Let’s Talk Science and Science North (Northern Ontario’s lead science centre based in Sudbury) bring hands-on, educational, and interactive activities to Winter FunDays. These programs offer families a chance to learn about the science behind Thunder Bay’s winter environment while fostering an appreciation for the beauty of the season.
What can participants expect to learn and experience during the Bannock Making program hosted by the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre?
On February 23rd, at the West Arthur Community Centre, the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre will host a hands-on Bannock Making program. Participants will learn how to make bannock over an open fire. This event is a meaningful celebration of Indigenous culture and traditions and provides a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Lastly, what are you most excited about for this year’s event, and why should families make sure to mark their calendars for Winter Fun Days?
I’m most excited about offering free, drop-in programming that brings the community together all winter long. Winter can feel isolating, but Winter FunDays brighten up Sunday afternoons with fun, engaging activities that celebrate the season. It’s a wonderful way to connect with others and enjoy the beauty and joy of winter in Thunder Bay.
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Winter FunDays offers a fantastic blend of outdoor recreation, creativity, and hands-on learning for families to enjoy together. Whether you’re skating on the ice, exploring winter science, or immersing yourself in arts and cultural activities, there’s something for everyone to experience and discover. It’s a wonderful opportunity to make memories while fostering curiosity and learning. For those eager to explore even more ways to support your child’s growth in science and math, check out our blog for even more Ways to Help Your Child Excel in STEM Learning and discover 10 "Cool" Winter Science Facts for the Season to inspire curiosity and learning! Don’t miss out on the chance to have fun, learn, and connect with your community this winter!
