Five free activities to enjoy in Brant County this month
Winter Active kicks off in Brant County this week, bringing with it a schedule packed with low-cost and free activities for locals of all ages.
The annual celebration was designed to help “shake off the winter chill,” according to the county’s website.
By partnering with various community groups, the county hopes to inspire local residents of all ages to get out and stay active during a point in winter when folks might be “more inclined to stay inside and hibernate,” Mayor David Bailey said in a media release.
Over 15 different activities will be offered, with something scheduled almost every day of the month.
Here’s a sampling:
1 Snowshoe Hiking
On Feb. 23 from 1 to 3 p.m., adults over 55 will have the opportunity to try out snowshoeing on the field and forest trails at Pinehurst Conservation Area.
No snow? No problem — the event will still take place, on foot.
This free activity is led by an interpretive program guide from the Grand River Conservation Authority and pre-registration is required.
2 Curling
Learn more about the ice sport that Paris locals have enjoyed since 1843, according to the Paris Curling Club’s website.
The club offers a variety of leagues with players starting as young as four years old.
On Feb. 18 between 1 and 3 p.m., they’re welcoming the curling-curious of all ages to drop by a free open house to learn more about the sport.
3 Forest Hike
On Feb. 9 between noon and 1 p.m., arborist Trent Meyers will lead a family-friendly walk departing from the Lions Park parking lot through Barkers Bush.
Participants will learn about topics such as winter tree identification, invasive species, wildlife tracking and forest management, said Jake Cerson, community development co-ordinator of engagement and social programming for the county.
4 Princess meet-and-greet
The Scotland Community Centre will host youngsters between 1 and 3 p.m. on Feb. 24 for crafts, snacks, face painting, games — and visits from beloved movie characters.
Local entertainers the Glass Slipper Company will be in attendance, with Anna and Kristoff from the movie “Frozen,” Cerson told The Spectator — adding that the specific characters are subject to change.
5 Karate
For those intrigued by karate, Paris Wado Kai Karate Club is hosting a trial class on Feb. 6 at 6:45 p.m.
The non-for-profit organization describes its karate practice as “traditional” and meets two evenings a week at Paris District High School.
The class is free and open to all ages, but participants are asked to preregister by emailing Paris Karate.
Looking for something to do on Family Day?
Free family skates are running in Paris, Burford and St. George on Feb. 19 between 10 a.m. and noon in celebration of Family Day.
Visit the County of Brant website for the full schedule of events and registration details.