The beginning of March Break saw hundreds of families getting out to enjoy a bit of time off at the end of winter.
Britney St. Pierre, a science demonstrator at Science North, said the average weekend sees some 200 people exploring the giant snowflake. On March 9, however, closer to 800 people took in the wonders of Science North.
“It's really busy,” St. Pierre said. “It's the busiest (time) of year for us.”
Working on the third floor wildlife habitat, St. Pierre and her coworker, Josée Courtemanche, said they are diligent about keeping the animals comfortable, despite the busy atmosphere.
“They're pretty used to the attention,” Courtemanche said. “Some of our animals are more social than others.”
Still, to ensure they don't become too overwhelmed, each critter gets to spend some quiet time back in its habitat after greeting kids and grownups out on the floor.
Two-year-old Jared Johnson, who was visiting Science North with his baby sister and his parents Wesley and Karen, enjoyed meeting the flying squirrel. The youngster, however, was a little more cautious petting Will, a turtle who calls Science North home.
“We come here a lot,” Wesley said. “(Jared) loves it.”
It wasn't just Sudburians visiting Science North during the weekend. Six-year-old Brigitte Sirois-Roffey and her family came all the way from Barrie to explore the facility.
The girl's mom, Chantal, said while they're here, they also plan to visit family. They had hoped to take in some traditional outdoor Northern fun, too, but Mother Nature may have other plans.
According to Environment Canada, weather during March Break is expected to be mild all week. Rain and flurries are expected Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, with sunshine predicated for Thursday. The weekend forecast is also sunny and mild, with temperatures barely below freezing.
The City said both the Queen's Athletic Field skating oval and the Ramsey Lake Skate Path are closed, but Adanac, Capreol and Lively Ski Hills remain open.
The Onaping Falls Nordics Ski Club will remain open, however.
Tim Hortons is also offering March Break free swimming. Visit www.timhortons.com for a schedule.
