Summer 2025

Playgrounds will run from July 2-August 21/25 and we are open from 9:30am-4pm

We have started to plan many fun things for this summer and we can't wait to provide an update. Keep an eye on this page or our Instagram page for updates!

Need to Knows

Participants aged 5 (by the end of 2025)-12 will play games, complete crafts and enjoy themed days.

We are a drop in-program, so no pre-registration is required. Please note we experience high volumes at some of our sites and often reach capacity. Admission into the program is at a first come, first serve basis. 

Participants are required to have a completed Participant Information Form on site. This can be emailed to playgrounds@thunderbay.ca prior to them attending, please allow one full business day for it to arrive to site, or brought to site their first day. Paper copies will also be available at each location. If your child is attending multiple locations, a copy must be at each location. 

We ask that all kids come with full water bottles, sunscreen, nut-safe lunch and snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing and athletic footwear.

Sites

South Side Locations

 Ogden Community School
  • 600 McKenzie St
  • Come find us in the back yard or look for our sandwich board near an entrance!
  • Close bus stops: 1019, 1012
 Westmount 
  • 120 Begin St W
  • Come find us in the back yard or the front entrance (closes to Terra Nova) 
  • Close bus stops: 1531, 1277, 1261
 West Arthur Community Centre
  • 1914 Arthur St W
  • Come find us in the yard (play equipment or back yard) or look for the sandwich board out front!
  • Bus route: #4 Neebing

North Side Locations 

 Academy (Tues/Fri)
  •  14 Trillium Ct. 
  • Come fund us at the unit! If we aren't there we will have a sign up of where to find us!
  • Close bus stops: 1217, 1216, 1298 
 Oliver Road Community Centre (Mon/Wed/Thurs)
  • 563 Oliver Rd
  • Come find us in the basement, at the equipment or in the tennis court! 
  • Close bus stop: 1458
 North McIntyre Community Centre
  • 2051 Government Rd
  • Come find us in the back field, equipment or through the main doors! 
Grandview
  • 286 Madeline St
  • Come find us in field or look for our sandwich board near an entrance! (or if Brian tells us what entrance is best include that)
  • Close bus stops: 1785, 1471

Themes

 July 2-4 (three Day Week): The Great Adventure

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! This week, we’re kicking off the summer with the The Great Adventure at Playgrounds! Each day will bring a new adventure, where we play games, make friends and create unforgettable memories!  
 July 7-11: PG's Masterpiece
Let's get creative! This week is all about hands-on fun as we dive into creating unique masterpieces, during this craft themed week! From colorful tie-dye to becoming a Craft Camper, each day brings exciting new projects, games and activities that let your child’s imagination run wild. Don't miss out on this week of artistic adventure!
 July 14-18: Expedition Unknown
Get ready for the ultimate adventure! This week, we’re embarking on an Expedition Unknown where every day is a new journey. Going around the world, on a treasure hunt and on a road trip rally, your child will explore the great outdoors, solve fun challenges, and create unforgettable memories. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, exploration, and fun!
 July 21-24: (four day week) Once Upon a Playground

Step into a world of imagination and fun! This week, Once Upon a Playground, we bring stories to life through activities that stretch those creative muscles, build confidence and shine a spot-light on each child! Get ready for a week full of magic, drama, and adventure! 

Please note that sites won't be running on the 25th. 
 July 28-Aug 1: Ultimate Game Week
Get ready to level up the fun! This week is all about friendly competition and team spirit in the Ultimate Game Zone! From Olympic-style challenges to building team spirit, your child will have a blast participating in exciting games, boosting their skills, and making lasting friendships. Whether it’s racing to the finish line or cheering on teammates, every day is a new adventure in play!
 Aug 5-8 (four day week): Imagine That!
Get ready for a week of creative fun and limitless imagination with Imagine That! Each day, your child will explore exciting themes like space and science through arts and crafts, DIY projects, and hands-on activities. It’s all about turning big ideas into beautiful art!
 Aug 11-15: Critter Quest
Embark on a wild adventure with Critter Quest! This week, your child will explore the fascinating world of animals, from dinosaurs to bugs and everything in between. Each day is a new quest—whether it’s a Dino Day excavation, or an Under the Sea exploration, there’s fun to be found at every turn! 
 Aug 18-22: The Grand Finale 
The summer fun ends with a bang in The Grand Finale! Come celebrate all the fun we had this summer! Each day will have it's own party, as we wrap up an unforgettable summer!

Staff

All staff is trained in Standard First Aid, Level C CPR and HIGH FIVE, Principals of Healthy Childhood Development. HIGH FIVE supports the healthy development of children in recreation and sport.

Volunteering

 To volunteer with Playgrounds, or if you have any questions or concerns, email our Children And Youth Coordinator - Playgrounds or call   807-625-2954.

Check out our Facebook page!

Interested in being a part of our team?

If you are interested in applying to work in our programs during the school year or as a part of our summer staff team, visit the City of Thunder Bay Jobs page for job descriptions and application forms.

Contact Us

Any questions? Call us at 807-625-2954 or email playgrounds@thunderbay.ca 

Contact Us