Holiday Activities for ALL Ages in Guelph!

 The holidays are upon us, and there’s no better time to embrace the joy of the season in Guelph! Whether it’s gliding across the ice at an indoor or outdoor rink, zipping down a snowy hill on a toboggan, marveling at twinkling holiday lights in the park, or enjoying festive family traditions like pictures with Santa or The Nutcracker concert for kids—Guelph is full of holiday magic for everyone.

In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best holiday activities Guelph has to offer. It’s the perfect time to create lasting memories and enjoy the season’s magic with family, friends, and little ones!


Skating Rinks in Guelph

Exhibition Park Arena

The area offers a variety of different skating programs including ...

Public Skating 

This skate is a great way to socialize and skate with family and friends. Skate Aids are not permitted at this skate, but sleges are. Children 9 years and younger must be supervised on the ice by a parent/guardian who is at least 12 years of age, with sufficient skating ability. No hockey sticks allowed.


Family Skate

Skating at this quieter ice time is geared towards families with children aged 8 and under. Adults and children must each register. Skate aids, wheelchairs, and sledges are allowed at this skate. No hockey sticks allowed.


Shinny Programs

Drop-in, pick up hockey. Full equipment and helmets are mandatory, and the space is limited to 22 players and 2 goalies. Please bring a light and dark jersey for play.


Sensory-friendly Skate

Come enjoy a sensory-friendly skate, in an adapted skating environment for children, youth, and adults of all abilities. Dimmed lighting, no music, a small group of skaters, no buzzers or whistles. Wheelchairs, skate aids, sledges, and other mobility devices are welcome on the ice. Accompanying adults or support persons skate free of charge. No hockey sticks allowed. 


Adult/Child Shinny

Hockey player to benefit from drop-in pick up hockey. Full equipment and helmets are mandatory. Adults must attend with a child and children must attend with an adult. Each player must register, and games are self-led.

Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre

Recreational Skating

Rec skate is open to skaters of all ability levels, lace up & skate along to some great music!


Recreational Hockey

Rec Hockey runs as a shinny fame, with no referee or time clock. Players will self-organize and play based on numbers

*Women's only drop-in rec hockey is also available*


Click here to view the drop-in recreation calendar!


Guelph's Downtown Market Square

 Skate between 10 AM and 10 PM, seven days a week, all winter long! 

The Market Square ice rink will be open for skating, weather permitting, from 10 AM to 4 PM on the following days

  • December 24th, 25th, 26th
  • January 1st

Check the status of the ice rink, including how busy it is, through the live video feed of the market square! Click here to view the live feed


Tobogganing Hills in Guelph

  • Moe hill on Municipal St
  • Hanlon Creek Park on Kortright Road West
  • Cross Creek Park
  • Scottsdale Hill
  • Lambton Hill

Holiday Activities to Do With Children

By Lauren Hinchliffe April 8, 2025
Spring is here, and with it comes blooming flowers, longer days—and the busiest season in real estate. If you're thinking about buying a home, now might be the perfect time to make your move. Here's why spring is such a hot time for home buyers and how you can navigate the season successfully. 🌼 Why Spring is Prime Time for House Hunting 1. More Inventory to Choose From As the weather warms up, so does the housing market. Sellers who’ve been waiting out the winter are now ready to list, meaning more homes hit the market in spring than any other season. That gives buyers more options—and a better shot at finding their dream home. 2. Perfect House-Hunting Weather Let’s be honest: no one wants to tour homes in freezing temps or icy roads. Spring’s mild weather makes weekend open houses and afternoon showings more enjoyable and easier to schedule. 3. Ideal Timing for Families For families with kids, buying in the spring allows time to close the deal, move, and get settled before the next school year starts. It’s a natural timeline that fits many lifestyles. 4. Homes Show Better There’s something about green lawns, blooming gardens, and sun-drenched windows that makes a home feel more inviting. Homes often look their best in spring, which helps buyers visualize living there. 🌿 Tips for Buying in a Competitive Spring Market 1. Get Pre-Approved First Spring means more buyers, and that means competition. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you're serious and gives you a leg up in multiple-offer situations. 2. Act Fast (But Smart) Desirable homes can go under contract in days—or even hours—in spring. If you see something you love, be ready to act. But don’t skip inspections or rush decisions. Fast doesn't mean careless. 3. Work with a Local Agent A good real estate agent will help you navigate bidding wars, spot red flags, and find homes that might not even be on the market yet. Local knowledge is gold in a busy season. 4. Know Your Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves Spring can be overwhelming with so many options. Make a list of what you need in a home versus what you want. That helps you stay focused and avoid decision fatigue. 🌸 Final Thoughts Buying a house in the spring has its challenges, but it also offers big opportunities. If you’re prepared, flexible, and working with the right team, you can take advantage of the season’s energy and find a place you’ll love to call home. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, spring is your season to bloom in a new space. 🌷
By Lauren Hinchliffe March 25, 2025
Let’s face it—this past winter was one for the books. Between the endless snow, sky-high heating bills, and driveway shoveling marathons, it’s no wonder so many people are rethinking the whole “detached home” thing. Enter: the condo lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, downsizer, or just tired of winter maintenance headaches, Guelph’s condo market is having a moment—and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Why Condos Are a Smart Investment Condos have long been a solid choice for investors, but right now, they’re looking even better: Affordability: Compared to detached homes, condos offer a more accessible price point—without sacrificing location or quality of life. Rental Demand: With Guelph’s growing population and strong university presence, condos are in high demand for renters. That’s steady income for investors. Low Maintenance: No snow shoveling, no lawn care. Your time is yours—and your property is professionally managed. In a city like Guelph, where the balance of urban convenience and small-town charm draws people in from all over, condos represent an opportunity to own real estate in a desirable, growing market. What Sets Guelph Condos Apart What makes Guelph’s condo scene unique? It’s not just the buildings—it’s the lifestyle. Many of the city's newer and well-maintained condo developments are located close to parks, trails, downtown restaurants, and transit. And unlike big-city towers, Guelph condos often offer more space, quieter buildings, and a stronger sense of community. Plus, let’s talk about the amenities . Some of the standout features we’re seeing in the best condo buildings right now include: Modern fitness centres (say goodbye to that separate gym membership) Rooftop terraces with BBQs and lounge areas Party rooms and guest suites for entertaining Secure underground parking (a must after this winter!) On-site property management for peace of mind Featured Condos We Love If you’ve been on the fence, this spring is the time to explore. Here are a couple standout units we’re currently featuring: ✨ 1502-150 Wellington St. E 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,347 sq ft | $819,900 This bright and spacious corner unit has sweeping sunset views from the 15th floor, open-concept layout, and top-tier finishes. Located steps from the river and downtown—ideal for professionals or retirees looking for walkability, peace, and luxury. ✨ 806-160 Macdonell St. 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,098 sq ft | $699,900 This suite blends comfort and style with an open layout, fireplace, and private balcony with panoramic city views. Enjoy top-tier amenities and unbeatable downtown convenience—just steps from the GO Train, shops, and trails. Looking for something different? We have access to several other great units across Guelph—from trendy one-bedrooms for young professionals to larger suites perfect for downsizers who still want room to host family. The Bottom Line After the winter we just had, it’s no surprise people are looking for simplicity, convenience, and lifestyle—all things that come standard with condo living. And with Guelph’s condo market offering strong long-term value, now really is the perfect time to invest. Whether it’s your next home or your next rental property, there’s opportunity here—and we’d love to help you find it. Curious what’s available? Let’s chat or book a showing—you might be surprised at how easy condo living (and investing) can be.
By Lauren Hinchliffe March 14, 2025
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and get rid of the dust and clutter that may have built up over the winter months. A thorough spring cleaning not only makes your home sparkle but also improves air quality and creates a more peaceful living environment. To make the process easier, here’s a room-by-room checklist to help you stay organized and efficient. General Cleaning Tips for Every Room Open windows to let in fresh air. Dust from top to bottom, including ceilings, light fixtures, and baseboards. Wipe down walls, doors, and switches. Vacuum and mop floors, paying special attention to corners. Declutter and donate unused items. Living Room Dust and polish furniture. Wash or vacuum curtains and blinds. Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans. Wipe down electronics and remote controls. Shampoo or steam clean carpets and rugs. Clean under and behind furniture. Kitchen Deep clean appliances (oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher). Wipe down cabinets and countertops. Discard expired pantry items. Scrub sink and faucet. Clean and organize drawers and utensil holders. Mop and sanitize floors. Bathroom Scrub and disinfect toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower. Wash or replace shower curtain and bath mats. Clean mirrors and light fixtures. Wipe down cabinets and discard expired toiletries. Scrub grout and reseal if necessary. Bedroom Wash all bedding, including pillows and comforters. Rotate and flip the mattress if applicable. Declutter closets and donate clothes you no longer wear. Dust and polish furniture. Clean under the bed and in corners. Home Office Organize paperwork and shred unnecessary documents. Dust and disinfect keyboard, mouse, and desk. Wipe down bookshelves and organize files. Clean office chair and vacuum under desk. Outdoor Spaces Sweep porches, decks, and patios. Clean outdoor furniture and cushions. Wash exterior windows and doors. Check and clean gutters if needed. Tidy up garden beds and trim overgrown plants. Spring cleaning may seem like a big task, but tackling it one room at a time makes it much more manageable. Use this checklist to stay on track and enjoy a fresh, clean home as you welcome the new season!
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