Holiday breaks are a great time to unwind and enjoy some time at home, but keeping kids entertained during the downtime can be challenging. If you’re like many parents, you’re always on the hunt for fun, educational and engaging ways for your kids to keep busy over the holidays.
Many local businesses and shops in Downtown Oakville are here to help! The following activities are guaranteed to keep your kids entertained and happy during their time off and maybe give you some well-deserved quiet time as well.
The Augmented Reality Holiday Hunt
Immerse your kids in a virtual adventure over the holiday break. Explore the streets of Downtown Oakville on an Augmented Reality Holiday Hunt to find Santa and his friends. Eight festive characters are hiding at secret locations Downtown.
How to play:
● Use your camera to scan the QR code to begin your adventure, and follow the prompts to begin
● Use the map to identify the eight points on the map
● Once you have arrived at a location, begin to look for a sign or window decal with a magnifying glass and QR code
● Tap your phone to enable your camera and match the QR code on your phone to the QR code on the sign
● Tap the ground and raise your phone to see the characters come to life
You can walk around the characters, lift up your hand to hold them and post for photos. Don't forget to tag us on social using #dtoakville. The best part? If you (or your kids) collect all eight characters, you have a chance to win $1,000!
To start the fun, scan the QR code display in front of the library [1] or the Community Board at Towne Square or visit DTOakvillehunt.com.[2]
Winter Wonderland of Lights
Take the kids for a short trip to Oakville’s Towne Square at 94 George St. It’s the perfect place to snap some memorable photos next to the signature 30-foot tall ribbon tree.
You can also head to Centennial Square on Navy Street to take in the red and gold-adorned Christmas tree, explore the 3D illuminated ornament,[3] and giant gingerbread house and some Instagram-worthy photos under the twinkling ornament archway.
Lollipop Art Lounge
Check out Lollipop Art Lounge, a place where imagination meets creativity. Lollipop is a downtown Oakville treasure offering an inspiring and welcoming space for children and families to explore art, design and crafts. It's a go-to for birthday parties and workshops.
You can also shop locally and stock up on puzzles, games and DIY crafts like bracelet kits and sewing kits.
Crack Pot (Pottery Studio)
Keep the kids creatively entertained over the break with Crack Pot’s Paint-at-Home pottery kits! Each kit comes with painting instructions, pieces, paints, brushes, a sponge and a wooden skewer for decorating.
You can choose either curbside pickup or $5 delivery to your home within 15 kilometres of the studio. Once you’re finished painting, you can swing by the studio during business hours to drop off your completed pieces. They will fire them free of charge.
Duran Place for Kids
Often times during the winter break, children end up spending time indoors playing video games or watching TV, which aren’t always the most stimulating or educational activities. If you’re wondering how to keep the kids busy and learning throughout the winter break, check out Durnan Place for Kids in Downtown Oakville.
Duran Place for Kids features specialty rooms of art, dance, music and blocks. They also offer sand play and private party rooms. You can book private drop-in playtime and let your kids expel some energy while exploring the indoor sand room or the building block area.
Over the next few weeks, Duran Place for Kids is hosting a ton of holiday-inspired events. You can Meet the Clauses on Dec. 18 and 23 or visit Outdoor Santa on Dec. 19!
Holiday Happy Hour
Venture downtown and join us for Holiday Happy Hour on Fridays until December 17 when participating stores stay open late 'til 8. Enjoy special savings, giveaways and live music. Pop into Nyla’s Room located at 109 Thomas St., to warm up with a delicious hot cocoa and festive treats. You can also surprise the kids with a visit with Santa from 4-8 p.m.
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