Make this March Break one to remember! Whether your kids are staying close to home or looking for something new to try, Ottawa Public Library (OPL) has a full week of fun, learning, and family moments that you won’t want to miss. And it’s all free!
From March 16 - 21, OPL is offering close to hundred (100) free activities across its branches, giving children the chance to play, make new friends, and discover new interests— all while having fun.
This year’s Curious Creatures theme invites children ages 4-12 to put on their explorer hats and uncover nature’s hidden gems, scientific surprises, and activities that blend imagination with the real world. The lineup includes science sessions, dance, STEM challenges, games, arts and crafts, whimsical stories and tales, movies, music, and so much more. There’s something for every child—perfect for sparking curiosity and creating unforgettable memories. Here are just a few of the many fun programs we are offering:
Nature Programs
Are you a nature lover? Come learn about bugs, birds, and biodiversity!
- Go STEAM at Elmvale Acres Branch: Grab a magnifying glass or microscope and learn about creepy crawlies! Ages 7-12.
- The Box of Life at St-Laurent Branch: Enter the world of earthworms. How do they live and why are they important? Ages 4+.
- Scientists in School at Alta Vista Branch: Learn about creatures that fly – from birds to dragonflies! This will be a hybrid program hosted in-branch with an online presenter. Ages 7-12.
- Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre at Constance Bay Branch: Get a closer look at our feathered friends by investigating what helps them survive in the wild. Ages 4+.
- Parks Canada at North Gower Branch: Come and learn different ways to identify birds in the community in this fun and interactive program! Ages 7-12.
Theatre Programs
Let the show begin! Join us for fun-filled events with magic and puppets.
- Luc Leduc at Fitzroy Harbour Branch: Enjoy an interactive, eye-catching magic show from our favourite magician. Ages 4+.
- Rag & Bone Puppet Theatre at Rideau Branch: Watch a humorous performance based on acclaimed Canadian author, Jon Klassen’s: I Want My Hat Back series with music and puppets! Ages 4+.
Music Programs
Are you looking for music and movement this March Break? Check out some interactive music programs that we are offering!
- Ukelele at Main Branch: Want to learn a new instrument? Come learn the basics of playing the ukelele! Ages 7-12.
- Luv2Groove at Munster Branch: Get your wiggles out with this energy-filled dance program! Ages 4+.
Music and Dance Programs in French
Feel the rhythm and beat with these lively March Break programs.
- Fana Soro at Main Branch and Nepean Centrepointe Branch: Drum to the beat on the djembe, a traditional African drum! Ages 7-12.
- Atelier de ukulélé at Cumberland Branch and Greenboro Branch: Let’s strum along and play a few tunes on the ukelele! Ages 10-12.
- Tara Luz at Alta Vista Branch: Read a story and transform the words into a playful and imaginative dance. Ages 4+.
Registrations are now open!
So, grab your library card and sign up your young adventurer for the activities that excite them most. Spots fill up fast! Reserve your child’s spots before it’s too late.
Browse through the list of activities: March Break programming
Fun for you too!
The fun isn’t just for the kids—it’s for you as well! Connect with other parents and caregivers, swap helpful tips and tricks, share a few laughs, and enjoy the joys (and occasional chaos) of parenthood together. You’ve just kicked off a new tradition that is every bit as fun and memorable as the old ones.
While you are at a library branch, don’t forget to grab a few books to keep your child’s love of reading and curiosity alive at home—and pick-up something for yourself too! And when March Break wraps up, remember that OPL’s Summer Reading Club is coming soon!
