What Does “Open Family Day” Sound Like?

The City of Owen Sound is reminding residents of facility closures, modified hours, and alternate programming for the upcoming Family Day long weekend. Retail businesses in the city can now stay open on four statutory holidays: Family Day, Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Labour Day. The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce’s schedule is available online, and February 19 is also Partner Day, meaning access to the Y will be extended.

On Family Day, the YMCA will be open on Sunday, December 31 from 7 a. m. to 12 p. m. and will host a New Year’s Family Event from 12 – 4 p. m. that day. The Y will be open again on Monday, January 1.

Owen Sound hosts various festivals and events year-round, making it a popular destination for visitors. The Saturday Market will be open longer for holiday shopping convenience, with hours extended from Sunday, December 14 and 21, to 3 pm.

Family-friendly events are planned at various locations, including the Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Billy Bishop Home and Museum, the Owen Sound Library, and the Community Waterfront Heritage Centre. Public washrooms at Harrison Park and Kelso Beach at Nawash Park will be open daily from 9 a. m. to 8 p. m.

The Greenwood Cemetery Office offers activities for all ages, including boats, mini golf, camping, swimming, playgrounds, a bird sanctuary, and paved trails for cycling, walking, or pushing.

In Toronto, almost all city attractions will remain open on February 19, 2024, including the CN Tower, Toronto Zoo, Casa Loma, and Ripley’s Aquarium. Some stores will open with reduced hours, while government offices will be open seven days a week from the Victoria Day weekend in May to Thanksgiving.

Are Stores Open On Family Day In Ontario?

Most retail businesses in Ontario must close on Family Day, which falls on Monday, February 19, due to the Retail Business Holidays Act. All LCBO and Beer Store locations will also be closed. While Family Day is a provincial holiday in Ontario, it is not recognized in Quebec or at the federal level. Many cultural sites, attractions, and stores will either operate on altered schedules or be closed altogether.

Loblaws, No Frills, and Farm Boy will primarily close their locations, with a few exceptions in specific areas. Grocery stores in Peterborough will be closed, though some rural grocery stores may remain open. Conversely, banks and various shops will shut down for the day, so checking ahead before visiting is advisable.

While Family Day isn’t a national holiday, it is observed in several Canadian provinces, and many businesses will close. However, certain places will still be open, such as convenience stores, Shoppers Drug Mart, and select restaurants offering dining and takeout. Notably, federal government offices and numerous federally regulated businesses will continue to operate. For those looking for activities, the Art Gallery of Ontario will be open, providing options for engagement despite the holiday closures.

Is Owen Sound Safe?

Owen Sound, Canada, faces moderate overall crime rates, with a crime severity index of 123. 41 in 2023, up 18. 07% from the previous year. Drug-related issues are significant, recording a very high score of 81. 94. Property crimes like theft and vandalism are moderate at 52. 94, while violent offenses, including assault and armed robbery, also reflect similar moderate levels at 50. 00. Corruption and bribery are low at 29. 17. Safe 'N Sound, a nonprofit established in 2007, addresses homelessness by providing emergency shelter and support.

To combat cold weather challenges, it has extended its hours to remain open 24/7 until March 31, 2024. They offer tailored programming, including a Residential Support Program for individuals transitioning to self-reliance. Recently, a 23-year-old local was charged with multiple assault counts, highlighting ongoing concerns about violence in the community. Despite being higher than the national average, many residents feel safe in Owen Sound.

The city's crime statistics suggest a need for continued community support and services, particularly for vulnerable populations. Safe 'N Sound exemplifies local efforts to mitigate these issues through advocacy and educational initiatives.

Is Owen Sound Worth Visiting?

Owen Sound, Ontario, is a remarkable destination for those seeking to enjoy the natural landscapes of the province alongside rich food, culture, arts, and entertainment. Nestled by the shores of Georgian Bay, this charming city provides a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Notable attractions include stunning parks, scenic rivers, and the beautiful bay, with Harrison Park standing out for its myriad activities. Inglis Falls and other waterfalls in the area make for perfect hiking days. The city holds significant historical importance, having once been a critical port and a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Owen Sound brims with festivals and events throughout the year, inviting visitors from various locales. Art enthusiasts will find the Tom Thomson Art Gallery intriguing. From recreational hikes to culinary delights, Owen Sound nurtures both local residents and tourists seeking a tranquil getaway. Its proximity to Toronto makes it easily accessible for day trips. With its picturesque views, cultural depth, and vibrant community, Owen Sound is an enticing location for both visitors and potential future residents. Experience authentic Ontario charm in Owen Sound, a hidden gem ready to be explored.

What'S Open In Milton On Family Day?

On Family Day 2024, several establishments in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Halton Hills will be open. Key open venues include some restaurants (call ahead for hours), most convenience stores, and various Shoppers Drug Mart locations. Movie theatres and Canada Post services remain operational. Burlington's Angela Coughlan Pool will be open for recreational and lap swimming, while the Toronto Premium Outlets and major malls like CF Lime Ridge and Eastgate Square will also welcome visitors.

In Milton, residents can enjoy various recreation programs, including activities at the Milton Sports Centre, Sherwood Community Centre, and Mattamy Centre, offering skating, swimming, and sports. Public transit, however, will not operate on this day. Certain Starbucks locations may have varying hours, and while some facilities will be available, others, like libraries and garbage collection, will also function.

Families are encouraged to participate in community events throughout the weekend, ensuring plenty of activities for all. Overall, whether for dining, recreation, or shopping needs, there's a diverse selection of activities and services available during Family Day in these areas.

What Is Owen Sound Known For?

Owen Sound, known as the Scenic City, lies at the foot of the Bruce Peninsula in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, with a Census population of 21, 612 (2021). The city is situated at the confluence of the Pottawatomi and Sydenham Rivers, leading into Georgian Bay. Its appealing geography includes an expansive harbour, winding rivers, tree-lined streets, extensive parks, and trails, all contributing to its historic downtown area and vibrant cultural scene. Owen Sound boasts a storied past as a major port, earning nicknames such as 'Chicago of the North' and 'Corkscrew City,' renowned for its taverns and lively atmosphere.

The city is celebrated for its natural attractions, particularly the numerous waterfalls accessible within a short drive. Cultural highlights include the Roxy Theatre, Heartwood Hall, and the Tom Thomson Art Gallery. Annual events such as the Festival of Northern Lights attract visitors and locals alike. Owen Sound is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering various activities like hiking, biking, and water sports, all set against the backdrop of protected landscapes and the Niagara Escarpment.

Key attractions include Inglis Falls, Grey Roots Museum, and Harrison Park. As the urban heart of Grey County, Owen Sound perfectly blends historical significance with natural beauty and cultural richness.

Is Walmart Open On Family Day In Canada?

On Family Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February in Ontario, many businesses and services will be closed, including grocery stores like Walmart, Real Canadian Superstore, Foodland, FreshCo, Food Basics, Metro, and M and M Food Market. Major retailers such as Sobeys and Atlantic Superstore will also be closed. Similarly, all Beer Store and LCBO locations will not operate on Family Day.

However, certain establishments will remain open. Lynhurst Esso and Variety will serve customers from 9 a. m. to 6 p. m., including alcohol sales. In areas like Square One, Walmart, and Whole Foods Market will operate, alongside smaller grocery stores like Rabba and many Shoppers Drug Mart locations. In Fredericton, McAllister Place, and CF Champlain, Walmart hours may vary.

While public services like banks and municipal offices will be closed, select municipal recreation services may still operate. Although not a federal statutory holiday, many Canadians observe Family Day by taking a day off from work and school to celebrate. Those planning to shop should confirm operating hours in advance, as some stores may operate on reduced schedules amid the holiday closures.

What Is There To Do In Owen Sound Today For Free?

Entry to Harrison Park is free, with complimentary parking available. The park's trail network links to the Bruce Trail, Canada's longest footpath, leading to attractions like Inglis Falls and Centennial Tower. Owen Sound offers a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, drawing visitors from afar. Discover free local happenings via Eventbrite, and stay informed on city activities by subscribing to updates. Find engaging free attractions in Owen Sound, including parks, hiking trails, and unique destinations like the Owen Sound Marine-Rail Museum.

Top-rated activities for free entry include Indian Falls Conservation Area and Kelso Beach. The Owen Sound Century 21 Crokinole Club also invites visitors to enjoy a complimentary hour of Crokinole every third Wednesday. Explore seasonal highlights, paddling options, and diverse family outings that suit all interests, encouraging budget-friendly enjoyment. Skateboard or bike at Kiwanis Sk8 and Bike Park, hike scenic trails, or relax at local beaches and pools.

Upcoming events, including free games live-streamed on Rogers TV, provide opportunities to engage with local culture. Owen Sound's tourism ambassadors help plan your visit, offering maps, guides, and information about attractions and events.

Is Family Day An Official Holiday In Ontario?

Yes, Family Day is a paid statutory holiday for most provincially regulated workers in Ontario, including full-time, part-time, contract, and temporary employees. Established in 2008 by the McGuinty government, this holiday provides workers with a long weekend in February, a month that previously lacked such breaks. Family Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February, and in 2024, it falls on February 19. It is observed alongside other regional public holidays in Ontario, such as New Year's Day, Good Friday, and Victoria Day, totaling nine statutory holidays each year.

While Family Day is recognized in several provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, and New Brunswick, it is not acknowledged as a federal holiday; thus, federal civil servants do not receive the day off. Statutory holidays in Ontario are defined by the Employment Standards Act (ESA), and employees are entitled to a day off with public holiday pay. These holidays include New Year's Day, Family Day, and Labour Day, among others. Remembrance Day, notably, is not a statutory holiday in Ontario. Overall, Family Day is a cherished time for families to spend quality moments together, contributing to employee well-being.

What'S Open On Victoria Day In Ontario?

On Victoria Day, several attractions and services operate on modified schedules across southern Ontario. Major malls like the Eaton Centre, Square One, Vaughan Mills, and CF Markville will be open, while select Cineplex theatres and Rabba Fine Foods also remain accessible. Tourist attractions such as the Toronto Zoo, CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Royal Ontario Museum are open, with specific hours varying by venue: for instance, the Aquarium operates from 9 a. m. to 9 p. m., while the Royal Ontario Museum is open from 10 a. m. to 6:30 p. m.

Additionally, personal fireworks are allowed in municipal parks and conservation areas. However, most government offices, Canada Post locations, banks, and many grocery stores like Metro and Food Basics will be closed. Regions with open grocery options include some independent stores and select Walmart locations.

Public transit services will operate on modified schedules: the TTC follows a holiday timetable, and GO Transit will run on a Saturday schedule. Overall, while many entertainment and retail options are available, various essential services and governmental operations will be closed on this holiday, dubbed the unofficial start of summer in Ontario.