February 2020 - Delsuites' Blog
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February 2020

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Great Family Activities in Scarborough, Toronto

February 28, 2020
family activities in Scarborough

Scarborough is a very family friendly area of Toronto. With several great museums, parks, community centres and recreational facilities – there’s always something to do to keep the kids busy and occupied. 

If you’re planning to head out and explore some of the family activities in Scarborough, here are some ideas: 

Scarborough Museum

Learn about the past of the community at this museum, set within historical buildings in a 19th century garden in Thomson Memorial Park. This area was once the farm fields where Scarborough’s first settlers lived and the museum tells the story of Scarborough from the first founding to its growth into a major suburb. 

While you are there, you can also explore the beautiful walking trails of Thomson Memorial Park with your family. This is one of the most popular family activities in Scarborough and it’s something kids of all ages can enjoy. 

East Point Park

Take a hike with your children in East Point Park, a beautiful bird sanctuary where hundreds of migratory birds make their home. One of the largest parkland areas in Toronto, there are over 178 species of birds here – as well as monarch butterflies. 

Your little ones can learn about birds and watch them from the weathered steel pavilion bird blinds. You can also get down to the natural beach by walking from the end of Beechgrove and Copperfield Road. 

The Toronto Zoo

Another one of the best family activities in Scarborough is the Toronto Zoo. It’s one of the best zoos in Canada and even one of the largest in the world. At this amazing zoo, you’ll find more than 5,000 different animals, representing a total of more than 450 species. 

You’ll see creatures from all over the world, from Africa to the Arctic Tundra to Europe and more. There’s even a five acre Polar Bear habitat you can check out, as well as an underwater viewing area. If your little ones are fascinated by animals, this is a wonderful place for them to explore. 

Kidstown Water Park

On a hot summer’s day, Kidstown Water Park is the perfect place for young kids to play. It’s one of the most well-loved Toronto outdoor water facilities for grade school and preschool children and it offers an exciting collection of water features, including spray rings, a tipping bucket, squirting aquatic animals and more. 

There’s also a lovely picnic area, where you can relax and keep an eye on your children while you have a picnic in the sunshine. The park is open from late June to early September. 

Agincourt Recreation Centre & Leisure Pool

One of only two leisure pools in Scarborough, Agincourt Recreation Centre provides lessons, swims and other activities for families. It’s also home to a tennis club and two indoor rinks for skating. 

The centre also features the “Snoezelen Room” for children with disabilities. It features soft textures, soothing music and colours designed to be comforting for children with sensory processing issues. Regular sessions in the room have shown to improve relaxation, increase attention span and help with behaviour issues. 

Hit the Beach

Scarborough is home to two beaches where you can picnic, hike, sunbathe and swim. Bluffer’s Park is located near the southern part of Brimley Road and it is surrounded by great nature trails. Even in the cooler months when swimming isn’t possible, it’s a spectacular place for a walk. 

There’s also Rouge Beach. It’s part of Rouge Beach Park, which is located along the eastern edge of the city. Both of these beaches have great facilities including changing rooms.  

Go Exploring in Rouge National Urban Park

Scarborough is known for having amazing nature and green spaces. Rouge National Urban Park is another gorgeous park where you can go on outdoor adventures. It is open all year round and accessible by public transit. 

There’s so much to discover here – from hiking trails to bird-watching hotspots to great fishing. In fact, it’s considered the largest urban park in North America. It even offers camping spots, so you can spend a peaceful night under the stars without leaving the city. 

Check out our short term furnished apartment rentals in Scarborough and contact us if you have any questions.

Vacation Travel

What You Need to Know About Traveling On Canada Day

February 13, 2020

If you’re heading to Canada on July the 1st, you should know that you’ll be there for one of the biggest celebrations of the year. Keep reading to learn more about Canada Day and what you can expect during your visit.

What is Canada Day?

Wait a minute… when is Canada Day? WHAT is Canada Day? Why does Canada even have a day?

To put it simply, Canada Day is somewhat like the Fourth of July is for Americans – but it’s a little different. Here’s a bit of history:

Canada Day marks the day when the nation was officially “born” via the signing of the Constitution Act on the first of July, 1867. This act brought together the three provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and the province of Canada – which then split into Quebec and Ontario.

It’s not exactly Canada’s “birthday” (although it’s often called that) – it’s more of a major milestone in the journey to full independence from the British Empire.

This holiday was originally known as Dominion Day, and it wasn’t really celebrated much until 100 years later. Canada’s 100th birthday sparked a growth in Canadian patriotism and it started to become popular to celebrate on July 1th. The new name of “Canada Day” wasn’t officially adopted until 1982.

Canada Day has become a day for Canadians to be proud of the true north strong and free. Over the years the day has come to stand for the things Canadians love about Canada – such as friendliness, camaraderie, diversity, acceptance and natural beauty. (And of course, toe-tappin tunes and the smell of barbeque in the sultry air of a warm July night!)

Typical Canada Day Celebrations

What does a typical Canada Day celebration look like? The answer is, there’s no one specific way to celebrate this holiday, but it will almost always include food, music, drinks and lots of fun. It’s a day off for the general population and most schools and businesses will be closed.

First of all, a popular tradition is a pancake breakfast, where delicious pancakes, waffles and bacon are served for free or by donation. Often a city or town will stage an all-day event, featuring live music, children’s entertainment, games, activities and performances. There may be face-painting, parades and even ceremonies to induct new Canadian citizens.

When evening falls, it’s tradition to light up the sky with fireworks and play the National Anthem. The dancing and celebrating may go on late into the night! Canada is one of the best nights of the summer and many people will be in great spirits – feeling patriotic and ready to have a good time.

Where to Celebrate Canada Day 2020

If you’re heading to Canada to take part in the festivities of Canada Day 2020, where’s the best place to wave the flag?

Well, the truth is that there will be Canada Day celebrations taking part on July 1st in almost every village, town and city in the country. However, these are a few examples of the biggest and best celebrations you can attend on this very Canadian day:
Canada Day 2020

Ottawa

One of the biggest Canada Day celebrations takes part at the nation’s capital. There are huge celebrations taking part on Parliament Hill, with live music, a live broadcast of CBC’s The Evening Show, fireworks and so much more. There will also be festivities taking place in Major’s Hill Park, located only a few minutes walk from Parliament Hill. You can even celebrate at the Canadian Museum of History, located just across the river from the other sites in Gatineau, Quebec.
Canada Day 2020 Toronto

Toronto

Toronto has another one of the liveliest Canada Day celebrations. Throughout the entire weekend there are celebrations taking part at Ontario Place, including an Indigenous arts and culture performance. The Waterfront Festival takes part at Sherbourne Common, featuring tall ships and other Maritime fun. Many people will be heading to Downsview Park, where there will be games, music, entertainment and much more. And of course, the fireworks will light up the night for the culmination of the Canada celebrations.
Vancouver Canada Day 2020

Vancouver

The first of July is a fantastic party in Vancouver and there are several events to mark this Canada national day. At Canada Place you’ll find the second largest Canada Day celebration in the country, with 13 solid hours of activities, performances, music, exhibits, food and much more. Plus, you don’t want to miss the spectacular firework display over the harbour. Also, don’t miss the chance to check out vibrant Granville Island, packed with food trucks, art and a multicultural fair.
Canada Day 2020 Montreal

Montreal

Celebrate La Fête du Canada French Canadian style. In the Old City of Montreal you’ll encounter lots of celebrations, including a performance by the Canadian Forces brass band, workshops, sporting events and food stalls. The highlight of the evening is the stunning fireworks display from Jacques-Cartier Pier.

Happy Canada Day, and safe travels!

Toronto Entertainment

Entertainment in Toronto: 2020

February 7, 2020

Toronto is known as one of the most vibrant cities in Canada. This major metropolis has a packed calendar of events throughout the year – so there’s always something fun to do. Whether you’re into art, music, dance, food or anything else, you’ll find plenty of entertainment in Toronto to enjoy. 

 

From art gallery exhibitions to live music and much more, here are some of the entertaining events you can look forward to in Toronto throughout 2020:

2020 Entertainment in Toronto

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Royal Ontario Museum

Until March 29, 2020

Breathtaking photos capture amazing creatures from every corner of the globe. This is the most prestigious and longest running nature photography competition in the world, and it returns to the ROM in downtown Toronto for the 7th year in a row. 

 

Every photo tells an amazing story and showcases the incredible skill and expertise required to photograph such rare animals. From lions resting on the Savannah to the diversity of life on a coral reef, this exhibit evokes the beautiful and fragile natural world. Also, be sure to check out the other exhibits at the ROM while you are there – it’s a fantastic music! 

Hit the Floor Dance Competition

Metro Toronto Convention Centre

April 17-19, 2020

Watch some of Canada’s best dancers hit the floor in this impressive dance competition. You’ll be impressed by the incredible choreography and the skill of their movement. The competition includes more than 9,000 dancers from 250 schools across Canada, competing in 9 different dance styles. 

 

Watch as these talented performers compete for nearly $50,000 in prizes and scholarships. Created in 2010, this multi-city dance event has been around for almost a decade and it is one of the most noteworthy dance-related events in Toronto. 

 

The Toronto Maple Leafs

The Air Canada Centre

Various Dates Until April

The impressive 13 time Stanley Cup winners, the Toronto Maple Leafs, play hockey at the Air Canada Centre throughout the season. You can watch them face off against other major teams, including the Calgary Flames, the Vancouver Canucks and the Edmonton Oilers. The games are incredibly popular and usually sell out quickly, but you can sometimes get a last minute ticket so that you can watch the action live. 

 

If you don’t manage to get a seat for the game, you’ll be able to see it on the TV of nearly every sports bar in the city. After all, Torontonians take their hockey very seriously! 

Toronto PoutineFest

Yonge – Dundas Square

May 22-24, 2020

Celebrate one of the most iconic Canadian dishes ever! The glorious combination of thick-cut fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy is the star at PoutineFest. The 2nd annual festival will be held at Yonge-Dundas Square and will feature vendors serving up every variation on poutine you can imagine. 

 

Some of the city’s best poutine peddlers will be there, including Golden Fries, Le Smoking BBQ, Fat Les’ Chip Stand and True North Eats. There will also be live music to enjoy while you munch on your fries, from the likes of The Kuah Collective, Coco Brown, Cardboard Crowns and Mr. and Mrs. Sound. Therefore, this festival is a treat for your ears and your tastebuds. 

Canadian Music Week

Various Venues

May 19-23rd, 2020

This music festival celebrates the fantastic and diverse range of talent originating from our home and native land. Performances take part in venues across Toronto, alongside a daytime conference at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. The city will host more than a thousand bands at over 60 live music venues – so you’re sure to find a performance you’ll love. 

 

Above all, it brings together more than 3,000 music industry professionals for the week’s events, which include award shows and conferences. In the evenings, performers put on shows at venues throughout the city. Some of the artists featured in the past  included Alice Glass, Dani Robert and Hungry Lake. 

Toronto Comicon

Various Venues

March 20 to 22, 2020

 

Celebrate pop culture at this huge convention of fans of sci-fi, fantasy, comic books, anime and video games. This three day event will be packed with exciting panel discussions, celebrity appearances, family-friendly activities and shopping. 

 

Get an autograph from your favourite celebrity, find a t-shirt from that obscure anime you love and show off your cosplay costume. You’ll even get a chance to meet legendary comic book artists and creators. Whether you are a Whovian, a Trekkie or a Jedi, you’ll feel welcome here . In fact, you just might meet someone who shares your passion for your favourite fandom! 

 

These are just a few of the many great events on the entertainment in Toronto calendar for this year. Which ones are you looking forward to the most?