Every year, Parc Jean-Drapeau offers more activities geared to families. Aquazilla, a giant floating structure on the beach, is back for the second summer in a row. This jungle gym contraption that sits on the water has slides, trampolines and jumping pads. This year, there will be four new modules added, including a wiggly bridge that tests your balancing skills.
On Wednesdays, kids 13 and under swim free at the Jean Doré beach and Aquatic Complex, with the purchase of an adult ticket (maximum of three children per adult). Kids can now enjoy an inflatable obstacle course at the Aquatic Complex every Saturday as well as introductory water polo classes and aqua fit programs will also be offered.
There is also an array of special events throughout the summer:
Opening Party — June 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Launching the start of the summer season, this event will feature Zumba classes, introductory canoeing and kayaking lessons, sandcastle-building competitions, games and live music. There will also be a photo booth, free gifts and door prizes. Free kids’ admission.
Week-Ends du Monde — July 7 & 8 and July 14 & 15, noon to 10 p.m. — Celebrate the many cultures and traditions present in Montreal with music, dance and food. Families will be treated to a parade, shows and inflatables. The full event and activity details will be released in mid-June.
Swimmer’s Christmas — July 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — It’s Christmas in July at Jean Doré beach. Children get to meet Santa Claus, play with his elves, compete in sandcastle building and conquer an inflatable game structure. Participants who wear Christmas-themed clothing will get a 50 per cent discount on admission.
All Aboard Pirates — August 7, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — At this plank-walking, bounty-scouring themed event, children will learn sailor skills and pilot an inflatable pirate ship. Young kids will also be able to enjoy a performance by Paradox the Pirate, who will juggle, do magic tricks and balancing acts. Free for kids wearing a pirate-themed costume.
Olympic Initiation—August 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — In honour of the Montreal Summer Olympics’ 40th anniversary and the 2016 Summer Olympics, Parc Jean-Drapeau is giving everyone free admission to the Olympic Basin and kids can swim for free at the Aquatic Complex. There will also be workshops on various Olympic sports, such as swimming, diving, water polo, rowing and dragon boating.
For more information about all these activities, visit parcjeandrapeau.com.
