Toronto's expensive. Here's how to make the most of your March break — without breaking the bank
CBC
This March break an estimated 140,000 people are expected to pass through Toronto Pearson Airport, but more will stay put over the holiday as the high cost of living puts travel out of reach.
But for those planning a staycation, there's still plenty for your whole family to do on a budget.
Jenn Bruer, a GTA parenting coach, says that as costs for housing, fuel, groceries and other necessities have risen in recent years, she's heard more and more parents talk about stress surrounding money.
But quality time is what creates meaningful family experiences, she says, and that doesn't require pricey flights or all-inclusive resorts
"When someone's feeling that sense of guilt, you know, 'I'm not doing enough. It's too bad that other people can afford to go to Disneyland for March break, but we can't.' I would say, that's not what makes for a nourishing childhood experience," Bruer said.
With that in mind, here's how families can spend time — not money — enjoying March break in one of Canada's most expensive cities.
For parents who aren't taking the time off, the city has day camps at locations citywide.
Registration for CampTO is still open for kids aged four to 16 — offering indoor and outdoor games, sports, arts and crafts, and other activities.
Leisure swimming is also free at city pools, while drop-in programs at community centres offer many free and low-cost activities, including sports and yoga and art classes.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Public Library has approximately 275 activities planned for children, teens and the whole family. Information is available on the library's website.
For $20, up to five people in your family can try baking classes at Fort York National Historic Site through March 17. The one-hour workshops run daily between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Registration is online. The site also offers free tours of the fort and drop-in programming, including drumming, dancing, storytelling and beading.
The city's 10 history museums are hosting plenty of free programming. For more, you can find a full list of events on the city's website.
For extra savings, show your PRESTO card this week for discounts at the Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, the CN Tower and the Hockey Hall of Fame.
It's been a historically warm winter for the GTA, and the early spring weather means lots of free and inexpensive outdoor activities for families to enjoy.
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