2025 Easter in York Region: Egg Hunts, Parades, Events & Festivals

Other Things to Do in Toronto During Easter

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York Region, which includes cities like Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Aurora, and Newmarket, has plenty of fun activities and events for the Easter break. Here’s a guide to help you plan:

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1. Easter-Themed Events

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• Easter Egg Hunts:

  • Look for family-friendly egg hunts at:

    • Kortright Centre for Conservation in Vaughan

    • Main Street Unionville in Markham

    • Fairy Lake Park in Newmarket

  • Farms like Brooks Farms in Mount Albert often host Easter egg hunts, petting zoos, and wagon rides.

• Easter Brunches:

  • Enjoy a festive brunch at:

    • Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham

    • The Manor in King City

    • Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel in Richmond Hill

 

2. Outdoor Activities

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• Nature Trails and Conservation Areas:

  • Visit the Kortright Centre for Conservation in Vaughan for hiking and nature exploration.

  • Explore the trails at Boyd Conservation Area or Oak Ridges Moraine Trails.

  • Enjoy a family walk around Toogood Pond in Unionville or Fairy Lake in Newmarket.

• Parks and Playgrounds:

  • Spend time at Mill Pond Park in Richmond Hill or Lake Wilcox Park in Oak Ridges.

  • Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan may have spring activities if open during Easter.

 

3. Family-Friendly Activities

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• Museums and Cultural Sites:

  • Visit the Markham Museum, which often hosts Easter-themed events for kids.

  • Check out the Aurora Cultural Centre for workshops or family-friendly exhibits.

• Indoor Fun:

  • Take the family to Legoland Discovery Centre in Vaughan for interactive fun.

  • Visit Playcious in Vaughan for indoor play structures and activities.

  • Check out In Play Inc. in Newmarket for arcade games and play areas.

 

4. Shopping and Markets

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• Shopping Malls:

  • Visit Vaughan Mills for shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

  • Markville Mall in Markham often hosts special events for holidays like Easter.

• Farmers’ Markets:

  • Explore markets like the Aurora Farmers’ Market or Newmarket Farmers’ Market for fresh local produce and unique crafts.

5. Cultural and Arts Events

• Live Performances:

  • Check local theaters like the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts or the Newmarket Theatre for Easter concerts or shows.

• Art Galleries:

  • Visit the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg for inspiring Canadian art and spring exhibits.

 

6. Seasonal Attractions

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• Maple Syrup Festivals:

  • Check out Brooks Farms or Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area for maple syrup activities, wagon rides, and pancakes.

• Spring Flowers:

  • Visit local parks and gardens like Richmond Green Park or Unionville’s Historic Main Street to enjoy spring blooms.

 

7. Day Trips

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• Take a short drive to nearby attractions:

  • Toronto Zoo, which often has Easter-themed activities.

  • Niagara Falls for Easter sightseeing and events.

  • Blue Mountains for outdoor adventures and springtime fun.

 

Tips:

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Don’t forget to check event details, timings, and any ticket or reservation requirements before heading out. Many Easter events in York Region are family-oriented and fill up quickly, so plan ahead! Have a wonderful Easter break!

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Hidden Gems

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Here are some hidden gems and unique activities to explore in York Region (Aurora, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, and surrounding areas) during Easter break:

 

1. Lake Wilcox Park (Richmond Hill)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A beautiful lakeside park with trails, an outdoor fitness area, and a boardwalk.

• Easter outing: Take a peaceful walk along the waterfront or enjoy the modern playground with kids.

 

2. Unionville Main Street (Markham)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A charming historic street filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.

• Easter charm: Explore the quaint shops, enjoy a cozy brunch, and take in the picturesque atmosphere.

 

3. Kortright Centre for Conservation (Vaughan)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A conservation area with trails, educational programs, and seasonal events.

• Easter activity: Check if they host any maple syrup or spring-themed events during Easter break.

 

4. Fairy Lake Park (Newmarket)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A scenic park with walking trails, a pond, and open green spaces.

• Easter stroll: Enjoy a family walk, feed the ducks, or relax by the water.

 

5. Thornhill Village (Thornhill)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A historic area with beautiful architecture, unique shops, and cozy cafes.

• Easter outing: Explore the village, grab a coffee, and enjoy the charming old-world vibe.

 

6. Cold Creek Conservation Area (King)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A peaceful nature reserve with trails and wildlife, perfect for a quiet escape.

• Easter hike: Take a family-friendly hike and enjoy the fresh spring air.

 

7. Reptilia Zoo (Vaughan)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A unique indoor reptile zoo featuring exotic reptiles and interactive exhibits.

• Easter activity: A fun and educational outing for families with kids.

 

8. Aurora Arboretum (Aurora)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A lesser-known spot with walking trails, scenic views, and native plants.

• Perfect for: A peaceful Easter outing surrounded by nature.

 

9. Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park (Richmond Hill)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A large park with gardens, trails, a pond, and a skate park.

• Easter outing: Perfect for a family picnic or an afternoon of relaxing outdoors.

 

10. Brooks Farms (Mount Albert)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A family-run farm offering seasonal activities, a farm market, and delicious treats.

• Easter fun: Check if they’re hosting an Easter egg hunt or spring-themed activities for kids.

 

11. Boyd Conservation Area (Vaughan)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A tranquil conservation area with trails, picnic spots, and open spaces.

• Easter outing: Ideal for a family hike or a peaceful day in nature.

 

12. David Dunlap Observatory (Richmond Hill)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: Home to Canada’s largest optical telescope, with programs about astronomy and stargazing.

• Easter family fun: Check for any special events or public stargazing sessions during the break.

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13. King City Trail (King City)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A quiet trail through forested areas and wetlands.

• Easter hike: A peaceful spot for a morning walk to enjoy the signs of spring.

14. Market & Co. at Upper Canada Mall (Newmarket)

• Why it's a hidden gem: A unique indoor food market featuring local and artisanal vendors.

• Easter treats: Pick up specialty foods, chocolates, or baked goods for your Easter celebrations.

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15. The McMichael Canadian Art Collection (Kleinburg)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A stunning art gallery featuring works by the Group of Seven and Indigenous artists.

• Easter activity: Explore the art exhibits and enjoy a peaceful walk around the surrounding grounds.

 

16. Milne Dam Conservation Park (Markham)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A spacious park with walking trails, a pond, and picnic areas.

• Easter outing: Perfect for a relaxing day outdoors with family or friends.

 

17. Pioneer Village at Black Creek (Vaughan)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A living history museum that recreates 19th-century Ontario village life.

• Easter fun: Check for seasonal programming or guided tours celebrating spring.

 

18. Casey’s Creative Kitchens Cooking Classes (Newmarket)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: Offers fun and interactive cooking workshops for all ages.

• Easter activity: Join a family-friendly cooking class to create Easter-themed treats.

 

19. Holland Marsh Wineries (Holland Landing)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: A boutique winery offering tastings and tours in a beautiful setting.

• Easter treat: Enjoy a relaxing wine tasting or pick up a bottle for your Easter dinner.

 

20. Thornton Bales Conservation Area (King)

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• Why it's a hidden gem: Known as the "99 Steps," this conservation area offers scenic trails and a bit of a workout.

• Easter hike: Challenge yourself on the steps and enjoy the beautiful forested views.