Family Day Festivities Bring Winter Joy to Regina
Family Day in Saskatchewan, observed annually on the third Monday of February, serves as a provincial holiday dedicated to promoting work-family balance. First established in 2007, this long weekend provides an opportunity for families across Regina to engage in seasonal activities and community events.
Frost Regina Winter Festival Highlights
The Frost Regina winter festival transforms Victoria Park into a hub of winter entertainment from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday. Attendees can enjoy a unique blend of activities including a cozy poetry hut, the hybrid game of crokicurl, and complimentary hot chocolate. A special Disney-themed ice skate at the downtown rink adds a magical touch to the festivities, creating memorable experiences for children and adults alike.
Wascana Winter Festival Celebrates 50 Years
Formerly known as Waskimo, the Wascana Winter Festival marks its 50th anniversary with a free fun day at Wascana Lake and the legislative building lawns from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This milestone event features traditional winter pleasures such as sleigh rides and ice skating, alongside innovative snow-based activities like rugby, cricket, and yoga sessions designed to embrace the chilly weather.
City Services and Attractions Schedule
Regina's municipal services and popular attractions have adjusted their operating hours for the Family Day holiday. Public transit will follow Sunday schedules, with bus routes running normally while the information centre and RIDELine remain closed. Paratransit services are available from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and city parking meters will not be in effect.
Several city facilities will maintain modified hours:
- Landfill: Open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Sandra Schmirler Leisure Centre and Northwest Leisure Centre: Open from noon to 6 p.m.
- Sportplex Fieldhouse and Lawson Aquatic Centre: Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Regina Public Library: Most branches open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Connaught and Glen Elm branches closed
- Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery and Regina Cemetery: Gates open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., office closed
Cultural Attractions and Retail Hours
Cultural institutions offer varied accessibility:
- Royal Saskatchewan Museum: Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- RCMP Heritage Centre: Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Freezin' Frenzy superhero event 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Government House: Open 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Science Centre: Open noon to 5 p.m.
- Floral Conservatory: Open 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- MacKenzie Art Gallery, Art Gallery of Regina, Slate Art Gallery: Closed
Major shopping centers including Southland Mall, Northgate Mall, Cornwall Centre, and Victoria Square will be open from noon to 5 p.m. Grocery stores may have reduced hours, with Sherwood Co-op and Sobeys operating on holiday schedules while Safeway and Real Canadian Superstore maintain regular hours.
Government and Essential Services
Municipal and provincial offices will be closed for the holiday, while federal government offices remain open. Canada Post will continue mail collection and delivery services. Banking institutions may have closures, so residents are advised to verify hours with their financial institutions. Garbage, recycling, and food waste pickups will proceed according to regular schedules.
These coordinated events and adjusted service hours ensure that Regina residents can fully embrace the Family Day holiday, balancing festive activities with practical considerations for the winter long weekend.
