March out the troops this Family Day

Monday is Family Day throughout Ontario, and there are tons of activities for the whole clan. If you’re looking for something to do with the kids, that won’t break the bank, there are many options around the city.

1. Hit the Slopes – Laurentian Ski Hill is running fun family activities all weekend. The hill will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 15 and 16. Bundle up and watch a double feature of Big Hero 6 and Pingu on the outdoor screen Sunday at 6:30 p.m. or head there Monday morning for a pancake breakfast from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Also on Monday, Powder Dogs will be offering dog sled rides staring at 11 a.m. for $5 a person. Finally, join in on a paintball biathlon running from noon until 2 p.m. for alpine skiers and snowboarders, and 2-3 p.m. for Nordic skiers.

2. Get your geek on – Science North will be hosting Family Day workshops from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday. Take part in a variety of family oriented science experiments, take-home activities, and group challenges.

3. Embrace the elements – Head to Worthington for the Beaver Lake Winter Carnival Feb. 13-15. With activities like jug curling, live entertainment, face painting, snow sculpture competitions and family skating, it’s a great option to get outdoors and really enjoy winter, at least for one weekend.

4. Catch dinner - Lake Laurentian Conservation Area is hosting a free family ice fishing day Feb. 15 from noon to 4 p.m. Impress your friends with your newly learned ice fishing techniques. All equipment will be provided and all ages are welcome. Contact Lake Laurentian to get involved.

5. Dive in - Just because its winter doesn’t mean you can’t take the plunge! The leisure pool at the YMCA will be open on Monday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., so if you like, you can sit and watch your fingers wrinkle in the water all day long.

6. Get your game face on – Head to the Sudbury Arena Friday night to watch the Wolves take on the London Knights. Puck drops at 7:30 p.m.

7. Nail the double axel – Many arenas around the city are offering reduced rates on public skating Feb. 16. The Capreol Arena is offering a free community skate with free hot chocolate from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Sudbury Community Arena is giving you the chance to meet Olympic gold medallist Brad Jacob during their free open skate from 2-5 p.m.

Know of other 2015 Family Day events in Sudbury? Let us know in the comments section.