Victoria Day Weekend Ideas for Families: Make the Most of the Long Weekend

For many Canadian families, Victoria Day marks the unofficial start of summer. It’s the first long weekend where patios fill up, gardens come to life, and families finally get a chance to slow down and spend quality time together.

Whether you’re planning a full weekend adventure or simply looking for easy ways to enjoy the extra day off, Victoria Day is the perfect time to make memories.

Here are some fun, family-friendly ideas to make the most of the long weekend.

1. Pack a Picnic and Head Outdoors

Sometimes the simplest plans are the best ones.

Pack sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and a blanket, and head to:

• A local park
• The beach
• A nature trail
• A botanical garden
• Your own backyard

Bring a soccer ball, bubbles, or a frisbee, and let the kids run free while everyone enjoys the fresh air.

2. Plan a Family Adventure Day

Use the long weekend as an excuse to explore somewhere new—even close to home.

Ideas include:

• Bike riding along a scenic trail
• Visiting a nearby town
• Taking a ferry trip
• Exploring a family attraction
• Going mini golfing
• Trying a local farmers’ market

Kids often remember little adventures more than expensive trips.

3. Start a Family Garden

Victoria Day weekend is often when many families officially kick off gardening season.

Get the kids involved by planting:

• Flowers
• Herbs
• Tomatoes
• Strawberries
• Sunflowers

Gardening teaches patience, responsibility, and gives children something exciting to watch grow over the summer.

4. Host a Backyard BBQ

Keep things easy and invite family or close friends over for a relaxed afternoon.

Make it fun with:

• Lawn games
• A kids’ snack station
• Outdoor music
• Water balloons or sprinklers
• Evening s’mores

Simple gatherings often become favourite memories.

5. Have a “No Screens” Family Challenge

Challenge the whole family to unplug for one day.

Try activities like:

• Board games
• Sidewalk chalk art
• Scavenger hunts
• Bike rides
• Reading outside
• Family baking
• DIY crafts

You may be surprised how much everyone enjoys the break.

6. Create a “Summer Smile” Routine

Long weekends are a great time to reset healthy habits before summer schedules become unpredictable.

Use Victoria Day weekend to:

• Replace old toothbrushes
• Let kids pick out fun new toothpaste flavours
• Start a brushing reward chart
• Book summer dental cleanings early
• Pack healthy, tooth-friendly snacks for outings

A little planning now helps keep smiles healthy all season long.

Celebrate the Start of Summer Together

At its heart, Victoria Day weekend isn’t about doing something extravagant—it’s about enjoying time together.

Whether you spend it gardening, exploring, relaxing, or simply sharing a meal outside, the best memories are often made in the little moments.

Here’s to sunshine, family time, and the unofficial start of summer.

What is the age limit for using the Treasure Tower?
The Treasure Tower dental toys are designed for children three years old and up. However, there are prizes, such as knobby balls that can be given to younger children.