Early Years Arts & Design Festival Returns with a Morning of Creativity and Family Fun
Colour, creativity, and imagination will take centre stage as the Early Years Arts & Design Festival returns on Saturday, February 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. John Paul II School. Designed especially for young children, this vibrant and interactive event invites families to explore the arts together in a welcoming, hands-on environment.
This free community event is open to children from birth to Grade 3, and families do not need to attend a KCDSB school to participate. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration of learning, creativity, and play in the early years.
Throughout the morning, children will be able to rotate through a wide variety of engaging activity stations that spark curiosity and self-expression. Young artists can experiment with Plexiglass Painting, Marble Painting, and Chalk Landscapes, while sensory seekers dive into the ever-popular Magical Mess station. Builders and problem-solvers can test their skills with exciting STEM Challenges such as Float Your Boat, Paper Rocket Launch, and Bridge Building.
Movement and music will also be in the spotlight. Families can dance under the lights at the Glow-in-the-Dark Galaxy Dance Party, sing and move along during Jammin’ with Tim & Sage, and capture special memories at Picture Perfections with Lynsey Jordanna. Imagination will soar at the Lego Creation Station and during Stuffy Storytelling, where little ones can bring their favourite plush friends into the fun.
The festival highlights the important role creativity plays in early childhood development — supporting language, motor skills, confidence, and social connection — all while children are simply having fun.
This year’s event is made possible through valued community partnerships with Gaagagegiizhigook Childcare Centre, FIREFLY EarlyON Kenora KACL, Ne-Chee Friendship Centre, and the Northwestern Health Unit, whose support helps make the festival an inclusive and enriching experience for families across the region.
Families are encouraged to drop in anytime during the event and stay as long as they like. Organizers are excited to once again fill the school with laughter, music, art, and joyful noise.
Come explore, create, build, dance, and celebrate the power of creativity in the early years. We can’t wait to see you there! 💛
