Dinosaurs Roam Again: University of Lethbridge's Family Play Day Draws Thousands

In the heart of southern Alberta, the University of Lethbridge transformed into a bustling hub of laughter, learning, and familial bonding on February 19, 2024. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the 1st Choice Savings Centre on campus came alive with the sounds of excitement as nearly 4,000 people gathered for the much-anticipated annual Family Play Day. This year, with a prehistoric twist, the event promised a day filled with activities that not only entertained but also educated.

A Day of Diverse Delights

Attendees, ranging from toddlers to grandparents, were treated to an array of activities meticulously designed to cater to every age and interest. The day's agenda featured a smorgasbord of sporting activities including swimming, basketball, and the ever-popular rock climbing. But the physical exertion was just one facet of the day's offerings. Families also engaged in arts and crafts, marvelled at science demonstrations, and collaborated on constructing cardboard forts that stood as monuments to creativity and teamwork.

Perhaps most captivating was this year's theme: dinosaurs. The prehistoric creatures were not just a subject of fascination but also a bridge to learning, as children and adults alike explored exhibits and activities that brought these ancient behemoths back to life. The thematic choice underscored the University of Lethbridge's commitment to blending education with entertainment, providing a backdrop against which both children and adults could learn and wonder.

Community and Connection

The success of the event was not merely in its numbers but in the palpable sense of community it fostered. Close to 100 volunteers, encompassing faculty, students, and alumni, came together to ensure the day ran smoothly. Their efforts were a testament to the university's role as a cornerstone of the community, bringing together diverse groups for a common cause.

Among the attendees were Matthew Southgate and Anastasia Pavlova, who highlighted the importance of such events in providing a much-needed pause from the hustle and bustle of daily life. "It's a day to reconnect, to laugh, and to play," Southgate noted, emphasizing the value of quality time spent with family. Anastasia Pavlova echoed this sentiment, pointing out how the event allowed her family to explore the university's campus and learn more about its offerings.

Vanessa Rogers, a former neuroscience student and one of the volunteers, expressed her hope that the Family Play Day would become a tradition for many families, including her own. "There's something magical about seeing the campus teeming with families, all here to enjoy a day of fun and learning," she shared. Rogers's sentiment captured the essence of the event - a bridge between the university and the wider community, fostering bonds and creating memories that last far beyond a single day.

More Than Just Play

While the University of Lethbridge was the epicenter of Family Day festivities, the spirit of celebration extended beyond its campus. The Helen Schuler Nature Centre and CASA also hosted activities, contributing to a community-wide celebration of family, learning, and fun. This collaborative effort showcased the power of community partnerships in creating meaningful, enriching experiences for all.

As the day wound down and the 1st Choice Savings Centre emptied, the echoes of laughter and the sight of tired but happy faces heading home were powerful reminders of the event's impact. In a world that often moves too fast, the University of Lethbridge's Family Play Day stood as a beacon of the simple joys of family time, shared learning, and community connection.

The annual event, free of charge and open to all, not only offered families a chance to enjoy a day out but also to connect with the broader community and discover the richness of the university's offerings. In doing so, it laid the groundwork for future explorations, learning adventures, and perhaps most importantly, the nurturing of family traditions centered around curiosity, education, and fun.