REGINA — From outdoor winter festivals to superhero searches, puppet shows to Pats hockey, the Queen City is stacked with ways to spend Family Day Monday.
City officials say this year might be one of the busiest yet.
“There’s actually lots going on,” said Jennifer Johnson, deputy city manager of communications, Service Regina and tourism. “Family Day falls right in the middle of Frost Festival weekend, so there are some incredible opportunities for people to celebrate winter and celebrate being a winter city.”
Frost Festival takes centre stage
Watch the video for a look at what you can expect at Frost Regina.
Downtown, the Frost hub will be active with skating at the outdoor rink and a lineup of programming that is designed to draw in the crowds. Johnson notes real time updates are key, especially with unseasonably warm temperatures in the forecast.
At Wascana, Family Day programming is being led by the Wascana Winter Festival in partnership with the city. Expect Indigenous storytelling, cultural performances, sleigh rides, cross country ski trails, snow yoga, snow cricket and snow rugby, weather permitting.
“Winter can feel long,” Johnson said. “We really want to provide opportunities for people to get out, enjoy the city and maybe experience something different than their regular routine.”
The Frost experience also extends to the REAL District throughout the weekend. Field level activations include a massive inflatable obstacle course and an indoor mechanical snowboard that Johnson says kids and adults alike can enjoy for hours.
Pats hockey and family favourites
For sports fans, the Regina Pats face the Swift Current Broncos at 2 p.m. on Family Day, offering an easy afternoon outing for families.
Several of Regina’s most popular attractions are also open, including the Saskatchewan Science Centre, the RCMP Heritage Centre and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum.
At the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Family Day programming ties into Indigenous Storytelling Month, with Elder Hazel Dixon sharing stories from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Other high energy options include Apex Adventure Plex, SkyPark Regina and Activate, all open and welcoming families looking to burn off some energy.
Freeze and Frenzy at the RCMP Heritage Centre
At the RCMP Heritage Centre, the third annual Freeze and Frenzy event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Chief executive officer Sam Karikas says the indoor event continues to grow each year.
“This is our third annual Freeze and Frenzy and it continues to grow every year,” she said. “We’re really excited to welcome people.”
The paid event includes crafts, prizes, obstacle courses, hockey shooting drills and a superhero themed adventure. Baby Jack Jack from The Incredibles has gone missing, and young visitors are invited to help track him down.
Families can snap photos with Spider Man, Supergirl and Monty the Moose. A movie will play in the theatre, while mini donuts, popcorn, drinks and coffee fuel the fun. The gift shop is offering a promotion where shoppers who spend twenty five dollars can save five.
“It’s come and go between eleven and three,” Karikas explained. “Families can really spend a good amount of time taking part in all the activities.”
Everything is indoors, a decision made after past years saw frigid temperatures.
Unplug at Government House
For families looking to slow things down, Government House offers a different pace.
Manager Chad Debert describes Family Day at the historic site as an opportunity to unplug and unwind.
From 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., activities fill the property. Wide Open Children’s Theatre presents More Munsch, a puppet powered compilation of three Robert Munsch stories. Performances run at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.
“It promises to be a lot of fun and very family friendly,” Debert said.
A dedicated board game room will feature dozens of options for all ages. Globe Theatre will host acting workshops, giving kids a chance to hone their theatrical skills. Visitors can also tour the museum and explore the newest exhibit in the Queen Elizabeth II Art Gallery.
With milder weather expected, guests are encouraged to stroll the grounds and imagine the gardens that will bloom in the months ahead.
“It’s just a chance to unplug, enjoy the historic property and spend some real time together,” Debert said.
A city built for winter fun
From inflatable obstacle courses and snow yoga to puppet shows and superhero missions, Regina is embracing its winter identity.
Johnson says the message is simple.
“Get out and do something fun. Make the most of your Family Day weekend.”
Whether families choose skates or stage lights, hockey sticks or hot chocolate, this year’s Family Day lineup proves there is no shortage of ways to celebrate in Regina.
