Playgrounds Program

Summer 2026

Get ready for an unforgettable summer with us at Playgrounds! Our 2026 program will run from June 29th - August 20th, offering eight exciting weeks of themed activities, games, creativity and fun for all participants!

Participants need to be 5 (by the end of 2026) - 12 to attend.

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. Please note that sites will often reach capacity.

Participants are required to have a completed Participant Information Form on site. The form will be available online by the end of May. It 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.

Be sure to keep an eye on this page or our Instagram page for updates, announcements and important information as we get closer to summer. We can't wait to welcome everyone for an amazing summer season at Playgrounds!

Sites - 9:30am-4pm

Weekly Themes

Playgrounds Party: June 29 - July 3 *Closed July 1*
Kick of summer with Playgrounds Party, a fun-filled week focused on classic outdoor games, team challenges, and creative play. Participants will stay active while building friendships, confidence, and a strong sense of Playgrounds community. It's the perfect energetic start to an exciting summer ahead.

Claws, Paws, and Jaws: July 6 - 10
Step into the wild during Claws, Paws, and Jaws, where participants will discover the amazing world of animals. From jungle-inspired games to under the sea crafts, each day brings a new adventure that sparks curiosity and imagination

Magic & Marvels: July 13 - 17
Step into a world of fairytales and heroes during Magic & Marvels! Participants will bring their favourite storybook and superhero adventures to life through themed dress-up days, exciting heroic quests and creative character crafts.

Trending Now: July 20 - 24
Get into the spirit of what's popular during Trending Now, a week inspired by gaming, music, and current trends. Participants will enjoy upbeat challenges, performance opportunities, and interactive activities that celebrate creativity, teamwork, and fun.

Out of This World Odyssey: July 27 - 30 *Closed July 31*
Blast off into adventure during Out of This World Odyssey! Participants will journey through exciting themed worlds, from outer space to the deep sea and beyond! Each day offers a new setting to explore, creating an action-packed week full of surprises and excitement.

The Curiosity Collective: August 4 - 7 *Closed August 3*
Spark a love of learning during The Curiosity Collective, a week filled with hands-on science, coding-inspired challenges, and exciting dinosaur discoveries. Participants will experiment, investigate, and create as they explore how things work through engaging, curiosity-driven activities.

Champions in Training: August 10 - 14
Get ready to move during Champions in Training, a week inspired by the excitement and spirit of the Olympic Games. Participants will take part in friendly competitions, team challenges, and skill-building activities as they work toward their own camp victories and celebrate sportsmanship together!

One Last Blast: August 17 - 20 *Closed August 21*
Wrap up the summer with One Last Blast, a celebratory week filled with participant favourites, water games, and memorable moments. Participants will enjoy their favourite activities as we look back on an amazing summer season together.

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

Join us as a volunteer this summer!

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? Email us at playgrounds@thunderbay.ca