A family enjoys Gallery Play in the hands-on Discovery Zone.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
I grew up in a rural area. Our town was too small for population statistics to matter much. At best, it was quiet and peaceful, at worst, sleepy. I remember complaining about boredom to my grandparents, who would then prescribe a solution – like seeing how many times I could run around the house. It kept me occupied, or at least too winded to complain further.
Looking back, I realize that boredom was a gift. It allowed for slow days and meaningful moments filled with laughter, stories, and wisdom. When special outings did happen, they were even more memorable.
We all seem to be tightrope walkers, balancing daily demands while trying to infuse life with special moments. The pressure is real – tight timelines, financial stress, and self-imposed expectations can sometimes strip those moments of their magic.
We might groan about the stretch of time between January and spring, with poor weather and none of the December holiday spirit, but perhaps this time is a gift. Perhaps this season is about slowing down, taking the time to explore, and being present.
This winter, if you’re searching for a unique way to make meaningful moments, I invite you to visit us. It’s our privilege to bring our community together and craft experiences for you to enjoy. We’ve designed events that inspire and connect – many of which are free or Pay What You Will.
The Discovery Zone, within the galleries, is a special space for families to explore, learn, and be inspired. Here, you can shape your own experience based on what interests you.
Our carefully curated activities connect with exhibition themes, arts, and heritage, offering free hands-on experiences during all operating hours. Geared toward children and the young at heart, the space is stocked with toys, books, and creative materials to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages.
Artist Sandra Sawatzky, creator of The Black Gold Tapestry, once shared with me that long before she embarked on her sixty-metre hand-embroidered masterpiece, she had explored a gallery maker space like the Discovery Zone – a space that allowed her to interact with textiles, needle, and thread, reigniting a creative passion. The Discovery Zone is fully stocked with free activity materials, ready for you to rediscover or explore for the first time.
The Discovery Zone also hosts structured programming like Gallery Play! Drop in on February 8th and 22nd from 1- 3 pm for hands-on, sensory-friendly experience designed to encourage play, creativity, and connection. Facilitated by Sensational Path, these Pay What You Will sessions support learning through movement, self-expression, and social interaction. This month, little ones can enjoy special painting projects, sensory bins and love potion making!
Celebrate Black History month with music, dance, art and food. On February 7th we’ve teamed up with The Connection to bring you E -After Dark: Afro-Caribbean Night. Experience powerful visual art, vibrant pop-up dance performances, and inspired food and drink in a one-of-a-kind gallery setting. This free event is a great way to meet fellow community members, celebrate our diverse cultures, and try something new.
Left to my own devices, I can be a bit of a wildflower – more observer than participant. But trust me when I say the energy of this event is magnetic, inclusive, and welcoming. At our last E After Dark collaboration, talented community dancers demonstrated different moves, and within minutes, the whole room was moving – wildflowers included!
One on my favourite events returns March 15: Kid’s Passport to the World. Travel the globe without leaving the city! Engage with hands-on activity stations, meet cultural organizations, and collect stamps in your travel passport as you explore. Celebrate diversity with music, storytelling and making! This lively, interactive event fosters curiosity, connection, and global appreciation through play and creativity.
This winter we welcome you to slow down – to dance, create, explore, and embrace the joy of the moment. We’ll see you soon!
Visit esplanade.ca for details on these wonderful moments.
Candace Lundrigan is the cultural programs co-ordinator at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
