Looking for fun Family Day activities that won’t break the bank? Good news! It is possible to please every member of the family without stretching the limits of your wallet. With the BC Family Day weekend fast approaching, here are a few of the amazing family and budget-friendly events happening across the Lower Mainland.

1. Get creative at the Richmond Children’s Art Festival

Richmond’s annual Children’s Art Festival is back and bigger than ever for Family Day weekend. Spend your holiday Monday experiencing imagination stations, performances and creative classes.

2. Visit Burnaby Village

Have fun wandering around historical Burnaby Village and check out the children’s activities running on the holiday Monday. Crafts and carousel rides are on from 11 am to 2 pm.

3. Explore New Westminster

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, why not spend the day in New Westminster for the Lower Mainland’s largest Family Day event! Free and almost-free activities will be taking place on the holiday Monday at the Queensborough Community Centre, Moody Park Arena, Canada Game Pool, the Anvil Centre, River Market, and the Fraser River Discovery Centre.

4. Spend the day in Surrey

Monday, February 12 will be a jam-packed day of fun in the City of Surrey. Check out the endless options of free activities at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, Cloverdale Recreation Centre, Fleetwood Community Centre, Fraser Heights Recreation Centre, Guildford Recreation Centre, South Surrey Recreation Centre, Stewart Farm, and South Surrey Indoor Pool.

5. Get crafty in Maple Ridge

Stop by the ACT Arts Centre to try your hand at free crafts and lantern-making workshops.

6. Go ice skating at Robson Square

Bundle up and head to Robson Square in Vancouver for a fun family skate. It’s free! Skates can be rented for an extra cost and the on-site concession stand is ready to keep you warm with hot beverages and snacks.

7. Take a day trip to Britannia

If you’ve never toured Britannia Mine Historical Site, now’s the time to do it! Admission is 50% for everyone on Monday, February 12. If you happen to be from Britannia, Furry Creek, Squamish, or Whistler, show your driver’s license or proof of address and get 50% off on the Saturday and Sunday as well.

8. Check out the aquarium

Spend the day having a splashing good time at the Vancouver Aquarium. Activities run all weekend and include family photos, puppet shows, and face painting – and of course all the under the sea creatures you can imagine. Bonus: Aquarium memberships will be 25% off over Family Day weekend.

9. Find yourself in Fort Langley

Learn the traditions of different kinds of families at Fort Langley. Enjoy a presentation on First Nations resources, make some Scottish bannock, and challenge yourself to Hawaiian warrior games.

10. Keep it local

You might be surprised at just how much fun you can have without venturing far from home – even if it’s raining! Take a walk in a nearby park, head to a community playground, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy a few outdoor games in your own backyard. Be sure to check your local paper or online activities listings for Family Day specific events happening in your neighbourhood.

And don’t forget to put the focus on the FAMILY part of Family Day. Odds are your kids will have a blast no matter where you go or what you’re doing – as long as you’re doing it together.