Five Things To Do In Barrhaven This Summer
By Barrhaven East Councillor Wilson Lo
Over the next few months, there’s so much to do in Barrhaven. So, grab your swimsuit, your fruit basket, and your lawn chair, because we’re looking at the top things you should get out to – and most are free.
Splash Pads
One thing that’s sure to help beat the heat (or at least make it a little better) is a good splash pad. You can find a complete list of them on the City of Ottawa website, key words: “splash pads.”
We’re lucky to have so many in our own backyard – we’ve got seven in Barrhaven East alone – including: Chapman Mills Park, Greenbank Park, Ken Ross Park, Mancini Park, Stonecrest Park, Tierney Park, and Water Dragon Park. Rubber duckies not included.
Farmer’s Market
Hosted every Sunday from 10AM – 2PM until the end of October, you’ll find the tastiest fresh produce, baked goods, pantry staples, hot meals, and more. There is regularly 10+ producers on-site highlighting the Ottawa region. Even better, special guests pop in from week-to-week, including expert gardeners for us not-so-green-thumbs.
Sometimes, heading to the market helps my brain think about the recipes that I could make (but usually don’t). So, grab your basket and head to the OC Transpo Nepean Woods Park & Ride on Sunday. I’m willing to taste-test your baking, for science…
Head To The Library
Grab your library card (or sign up for one) and take advantage of the extensive programming at Ruth E. Dickinson Library. Whether you’re 4 or 100 years old, we’re sure you’ll find something to pique your interest. If commitment is not your thing, there are drop-in programs, too.
If you’ve got an avid reader under the age of twelve in your home, check out the Summer Reading Club. It rewards reading and learning through in-person and virtual events – they can even get a prize for taking part. Have them head to the library to sign up or get more details on the Reading Club website.
Company of Fools presents… Hamlet
“To be or not to be… that is the question!” Or is it? Head to Stonecrest Park at 7PM on August 15 to experience Shakespeare in the Park as they perform Hamlet. The Company of Fools makes plays accessible and puts a creative spin on classics in a way that you’ll enjoy, even if you’re not an English major.
There are promises of puppets and sword fights, and even maybe a scary ghost! It’s a pay what you can event and appropriate for the whole family. We’re sure the ghost isn’t that scary.
Rhythm Culture Fest
If music is your thing, you’ll have to add this event to your list of “must dos.” Taking place at Clarke Fields Park on August 12-13, you’ll be able to feel the hip-hop rhythms in your bones. I can’t promise I’ll be up there dancing – trust me, it’s for the best – but the music and festivities will make you want to move.
Bring the kids along to enjoy the Children’s Island while you savour authentic Caribbean cuisine. Bonus: Kids under twelve get in for free.
Bonus: Volunteer
Let’s get real, there are a ton of organizations in Barrhaven (and beyond) that could use an extra hand, including the Barrhaven Food Cupboard. Most organizations rely on the support and help from community members like you.
Students, go beyond the 40-hours you need to graduate. Never underestimate the benefits of volunteering. You get a chance to gain work experience for your resume, expand your network for the future, and feel good about what you’re doing.
