Northumberland County says its EarlyON family bingo-inspired fun is making a comeback.
“We’re very excited to bring back our ‘Family Fun Bingo’ competition for a third year (and) in time for Family Day weekend,” said county Early Years services manager Lesley Patterson. “This family-friendly competition is a great way to make lasting memories together and meet other families with children of a similar age.
“This year, we have an exciting lineup of events featured on the bingo card, including the upcoming ‘Snow Much Fun’ event, various March Break programs at family-friendly destinations throughout Northumberland, and regular programming at EarlyON centres, including storytimes, hikes, gym time, and exploration programs.”
The competition is an invitation to families with young kids to come together and complete activities and attend free EarlyON programs throughout February and March, according to organizers.
Families who complete “a bingo” will receive small rewards and be entered in a grand prize draw for a chance to win one of two 2025 annual day-use vehicle permits for Ontario Parks.
The “Snow Much Fun” event is a chance to check off a space on bingo cards Friday, Feb. 28.
This free event, co-ordinated in collaboration with the Township of Hamilton, invites families to come out to the Baltimore Recreation Centre from 9 a.m. to noon for a morning filled with winter activities. From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., families can explore snow sculptures, snowshoeing, and big machines. From 11 a.m. to noon., they can stay for a free parent-and-tot skate, said organizers.
EarlyON also offers a variety of other free programs throughout the year for families with children ages six and under.
To participate, families can pick up bingo cards at their local EarlyON centres as of Feb. 18 – or print one at home by accessing the EarlyON Northumberland website, where more details are also available.
Each square on the card features an activity that can be completed either in person, online, or at home. Families who get a “bingo” – completing a fun line vertically, horizontally, or diagonally – can submit cards to EarlyON educators from Feb. 19 to March 28 to claim rewards and be entered into the draw.
Grand prize winners will be contacted by April 14.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)