What’s open or closed? Are you ordering in or heading out for a nature walk? We’re here to offer some ideas on how you can safely enjoy your Family Day.
On Family Day, we celebrate our given and chosen family. The people in your life who accept you for who you are and who would do anything to see you smile.
Today time spent with loved ones will likely be different compared to previous years, due to restrictions put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cities like Toronto and Sudbury will be quieter.
Here’s what you can expect to be closed vs. open:
What’s closed?
Government offices
Banks
Most major grocery stores
LCBO and The Beer Store
Library services (you can still go online!)
Tourist attractions, malls and non-essential retail stores are currently closed in the city under Ontario’s lockdown order.
What’s open?
Select grocery stores
Select transit (Many service schedules will run on a holiday service schedule. Check before you go out!)
Most pharmacies, although hours may differ
Mail delivery (Canada Post says regular collection and delivery of mail occurs on provincial Family Day holidays)
Despite these restrictions, there is still fun to be had!
Below are three ideas of how you can spend time with loved ones today:
1. Get creative
Show your favourite people some love with a custom work of art. Teachers Arruniya and Fei will be running a free live YouTube session of painting and cartooning. The show broadcasts Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the theme for the event is “love and family.”
2. Safe outdoor fun
Some activities such as ice skating (note: sometimes reservations needed), walking, or hiking on outdoor trails with appropriate social distancing and masking are still possible. The forecast will be cold and snowy though in many places in Ontario, so if you do go outside make sure to bundle up.
3. Relax
Chilling at home is always an option. If you are living with loved ones, you could read together in the living room or bake a treat in the kitchen. Virtual fun is another option. Play skribbl - a free multiplayer drawing and guessing game - or other virtual games.
If none of the activities above are still possible, try to still take this day as a reminder to reach out or connect with those you love and let them know you care.
Whatever your plan, we hope you have a good day. Stay safe, stay healthy.