Brantford's Winter Fun Fest

Get ready for an unforgettable day at Brantford's Winter Fun Fest! Celebrate the Family Day holiday long weekend with family-friendly activities.

Activities on Sunday, February 16, 2025

Harmony Square's Winter Fun Fest

Join us in the heart of downtown Brantford at Harmony Square (89 Dalhousie Street) on Sunday, February 16 .  From whimsical rides to delicious treats and a spectacular firework display to close the day, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Conestoga College will be offering free hot chocolate, while supplies last. All activities are subject to weather. Opening remarks with Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis takes place at 1:00 p.m.

Activity highlights
TimeActivity
12:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m.

DJ Skate Party

Lace up your skates and hit the outdoor rink! Dance to the beats of our live DJ while enjoying the winter magic. Presented by Grissin Bon Ltd.

12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Carousel rides

Enjoy a spin on this classic carnival ride, perfect for littles ones and the young at heart. 

12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

S'mores station

Warm up and indulge in the classic campfire treat at our s'mores station.

1:00 p.m.

Opening remarks with Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis

2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Horse-drawn trolley rides ($2 per person)

Take a charming ride through downtown on this whimsical trolley experience.

7:15 p.m.

Firework display

Wrap up the day with a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the downtown sky.

Wilfrid Laurier University's Purple and Gold Party

Wilfrid Laurier University is celebrating its 25th anniversary in Brantford with a Purple and Gold Party at One Market (1 Market Street). On Sunday, February 16 from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., this family-friendly event will feature free, fun activities for all ages, including bouncy castles, games such as giant Jenga and Connect 4, corn hole, mini putt, entertainment, and complimentary cupcakes (while supplies last). Guests are asked to enter through the doors at the corner of Dalhousie Street and Market Street.

Downtown road closures and parking

Downtown road closures will be in effect for the community to enjoy the event.  Please check for road closures before heading downtown. Parking is free in the municipal parking garage located at 59 Icomm Drive.

  • Colborne Street from Queen Street to Bain Street and Water Street/Wharfe Street will be closed from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

Activities on Monday, February 17, 2025

Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre Public Swim and Skate

The Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre will be offering a special Family Day Public Swim and Public Skate for all ages to enjoy on Monday, February 17, 2025.

  • The Public Swim takes place from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Regular swim rates and swim admission requirements will apply for the swim.
  • The Public Skate takes place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Admission for the Public Skate is $4.45 for ages 5 to 54 or $4.10 for ages 55 and over, per person. Children ages four and under are admitted free. Helmets are recommended for skating. Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre facility membership holders can swim and skate for free, pool membership holders can swim for free.
Bell Homestead National Historic Site (NHS) Family Day Toonie Tours
Pre-book your family for a guided tour of Alexander Graham Bell’s home at the Bell Homestead NHS for the special admission price of only $2 per person on Monday, February 17, 2025. Children four and under are free. Tours can be booked between 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. by calling 519-756-6220 or by emailing bellhomestead@brantford.ca. Tours will not be available from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Pickleball Tournament

For families looking to stay active, the City, in partnership with Pickleball Brantford, is hosting a pickleball tournament, teaming up parents and grandparents with their child or grandchild, at Doug Snooks Eagle Place Community Centre (333 Erie Avenue) on Monday, February 17, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Registration is required by filling out the online form available at pickleballbrantford.club before February 12, 2025. A registration fee of $20 per team is due upon registration by e-transfer to pickleballbrantford@gmail.com. Categories and schedules will be based on skill levels. Space for teams is limited. Register early to avoid disappointment. For questions, please email info@pickleballbrantford.club.

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Volunteer opportunities

The City of Brantford is currently seeking volunteers to assist with various Winter Fun Fest duties. High school community hours will be available. Accepted volunteers will be required to take mandatory virtual training on Wednesday, February  12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Anyone interested, are encouraged to email harmonysquare@brantford.ca for more information.

Sponsorship

Interested in having your business or organization highlighted at the event? Email us at harmonysquare@brantford.ca.