Parks and green spaces are an integral part of the pulse of Toronto. Offering refuge from the hot summer sun, sticky sidewalks and maybe your shoes, the city’s myriad of green spaces are one of the best things about Toronto. Whether you’re a Trinity Bellwoods people-watcher, a High Park family-type or slowing down for a day in the Beaches, there are tons of great park activities you should scratch off your list if you haven’t already.
1. Join a bubble soccer league
There are tons of sports leagues taking place across the city, but bubble soccer has to be the most hilarious one – plus, it’s totally entry-level-friendly if you’re not exactly an athlete. There’s nothing like a ridiculous situation, like wrapping yourself in what’s essentially bubble wrap and knocking other people over, to help you make friends and meet new people.
2. Lawn Games
Think beyond the frisbee! Lawn darts, bocce ball and croquet are all great park choices – just don’t be surprised when strangers want to join in!
3. Get your picnic on
Putting a bit of thought into your next spread can make a great date, family outing or some quality time with a friend. Nix the Ruffles and get some nice cured meats, cheeses and fruits to make your afternoon a little more special.
4. Support local artists
Especially if you’re near a large park, there’s never a shortage of art fairs and street sales to fill a Saturday afternoon – Queen West, Liberty Village and Cabbagetown all have well-known art fairs. Follow your local BIA on Twitter or Facebook to get notifications about upcoming events – you never know what treasures you’ll find.
5. Grab a book
It’s hard to beat a spare hour or three in the sun with a great book. Whether you’re with a friend or enjoying some time to yourself, make sure you get outside to read at least a few times this summer!
6. Throw a party
You don’t need a summer birthday to throw a gathering in the park – but it helps! Grab some balloons, bunting and/or streamers, set up in some prime (and sunny!) real estate, and tell your friends which corner of the park you’ll be in. Plan to stay all day and work on your tan, because a low-key party is exactly what the season of weddings and engagements needs. Don’t forget your portable speakers!
7. Go fishing!
This one is area-specific, but heading to one of High Park’s fishing derbys is probably your only chance to catch a fish in the city, outside of heading to the Island. Grenadier pond, rumoured to be bottomless, is full of fish you can catch during an organized derby or solo, whenever the mood strikes.
What’s your favourite way to spend an afternoon in the park? Tell us on Twitter!
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