Travel & Family Outingshttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/atom.aspxCommunity Server2007-08-03T11:16:00ZYour Child’s First Moviehttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/your-child-s-first-movie.aspx2007-08-03T17:22:00Z2007-08-03T17:22:00Z<p>One of the more pleasurable experiences a child can have is going to his or her first movie. </p>
<p>Some things to keep in mind before your excursion:</p>
<ul>
<li>Choose a film that is appropriate. Most provinces have different rating systems and it is important to not only consult what the film is rated but to also read up on it as much as possible to ensure that there is no content in the film that could be offensive or objectionable to you or your child.</li>
<li>Communicate that this is a fun, pleasurable experience. With large images and plenty of people, movie theatres can be daunting at first, but if you let your child know that you are right there with them, it can be extremely enjoyable. </li>
<li>Be sure to limit exposure to too many sugary treats during the film by having your child eat something before you leave for the theatre. Going to the movies may be a special occasion deserving of treats, though, so don't feel guilty if you do want to indulge your child (or yourself!).</li>
<li>Share the experience with your child afterwards by asking questions about the movie. Your toddler may not have comprehended the entire story, but by taking the time to speak to him or her afterwards, your child will know that movies are something to be enjoyed.</li>
<li>Make sure that your child knows to stay with you at all times. In a dark theatre, it's easy to get lost.</li>
<li>Take a bathroom break before the show...or anytime during the show if your toddler feels they need. </li>
<li>Make sure the experience is as pleasurable for you child as possible and, if you must leave early, remember the DVD is only a few short months away!</li></ul>
<p>By Chris Giardino</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=168" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxTravel Games for the Roadhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/travel-games-for-the-road.aspx2007-08-03T17:18:00Z2007-08-03T17:18:00Z<p>Anyone traveling with a preschooler knows that even the shortest jaunt can take twice as long as anticipated. Here are a few car games to help pass the time on those long road trips.</p>
<p><b>The Alphabet Game Version 1</b>: Using license plates, destination signs, advertisements, flora and fauna, etc., each player must find something that begins with a letter of the alphabet. See how far you can get through the alphabet before messing up. </p>
<p><b>The Alphabet Game Version 2</b>: Using one topic (such as animals or geography), the game begins with the letter A. For example in Animal Alphabet, start with aardvark. Your child must then name an animal that starts with the last letter of the first word, in this example - K, so the next animal could be kangaroo. The next person says an animal that starts with the letter O, such as ostrich. This game continues until someone gets stumped.</p>
<p><b>Eye Spy</b>: Add a new twist to the traditional game. Before leaving on your trip, have your children create a telescope by decorating old paper towel roles. Or, if your child is old enough, bring along binoculars. Then start the game off with "Eye-spy with my little eye something that is (red, round, tall, moving, an animal, etc.)".</p>
<p><b>Traveling Spelling Bees</b>: Great for kids learning to read and spell! When my sister was learning to read, my dad would pay her a nickel for every road sign she could read, double the amount for any French signs. By the end of a trip my dad may have been out a few bucks, but my sister was well entertained and learned to read many new words.</p>
<p><b>Treasure Hunts</b>: Create a travel treasure hunt by preparing a list of things for your children to find, such as ten things that are a particular colour or ten different kinds of animals or vehicles. You can even have prizes for each completed category.</p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=167" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxTips on Trips to the Mallhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/tips-on-trips-to-the-mall.aspx2007-08-03T17:15:00Z2007-08-03T17:15:00Z<p>Excursions out to the mall can be very fun for a little one. From the perspective of someone who is still new to the planet, it can probably feel the same as an exhibition. </p>
<p>But just like going to an exhibition, one should always be aware of your surroundings when taking your little one to the mall. Some hints to make your trip more enjoyable:</p>
<ul>
<li>Never take your eyes, or if all possible, your hands off of your little one. It is not a pleasant thought, but shopping malls can be filled with many people, not all with honourable intentions. </li>
<li>If your child is of walking age, make sure you have a place to meet in the event that you get separated. Remind your children how important it is for them to stay with you at all times. </li>
<li>Know where the store or mall customer service desk is. </li>
<li>Try to eat ahead of time. Although it is changing, many mall food courts still rely mostly on greasy fast food. Eating before can alleviate the stress of finding proper food for your little one. </li>
<li>Try to visit stores that are kid friendly. Nothing can make a child more restless than having to spend too much time looking at expensive glasses and china. </li>
<li>If your child has food on their face or hands, try to clean it off before entering the establishment. </li></ul>
<p>Try to go at a time when your child will be less restless and, if possible, keep the browsing in more adult-oriented stores more to a minimum. At the end of the day though, enjoy yourself! </p>
<p>By Chris Giardino</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=166" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxRoad Trip Ruleshttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/road-trip-rules.aspx2007-08-03T17:14:00Z2007-08-03T17:14:00Z<p>When planning road trips, there are two main things to consider - length of time and filling that time. Let's start with length of time. If your child is still taking naps, coordinate your trip to overlap with the nap. Of course, the best laid plans can go awry, but chances are good that by traveling during a scheduled nap time, your child will sleep.</p>
<p>Depending on the length of your trip and how long your child naps, consider stopping every two hours to break up the monotony of the drive and to allow for a good stretch. </p>
<p>For longer trips, plan breaks in advance. If you're traveling in favourable weather, map out provincial parks along the way. During winter months, stops might include interesting towns or museums. And plan to stop for at least an hour - enough time to eat and get in some active play. </p>
<p>Occupying your child in the car is becoming easier with technology. Handheld video games are great and most MP3 players allow you to create play lists of your children's favourite songs. Many new cars also feature DVD options, but, if not, there are many inexpensive portable DVD players out there that can be securely attached and run on your car's battery. And the old standards - stories and music on tape or CD, books, magazines and games will also help pass the time.</p>
<p>Finally no matter how savvy you are at planning; one thing that you can never account for is weather. If you are faced with inclement weather, consider pulling over and if needed, bunking down for the night. Your child will sense any stress you may be feeling during the ride and, in the end, arriving a few hours later then intended costs nothing, but saves you the angst of a very long, rain or snow savaged drive. </p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=165" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxRainy Day Outingshttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/rainy-day-outings.aspx2007-08-03T17:11:00Z2007-08-03T17:11:00Z<p>Below are some outings that may help you enjoy rainy days together.</p>
<p><b>The People in Your Neighbourhood</b></p>
<p>Next rainy day, plan to meet all the people in your neigbourhood. Spend the day visiting the local fire and police stations, the post office, dry cleaners, mechanic, etc. Along the way take pictures. Once the photos are developed, put them together in a photo album and create a story of your day. </p>
<p><b>Pet Stores - The Next Best Thing to a Zoo</b></p>
<p>Pet stores are a great place to visit animals and are learning opportunities too. Most staffers are used to dealing with younger people and will patiently talk to your children about the animals they have. Some will even let children handle them. Specialty stores allow children to meet more unusual animals (such as reptiles or exotic fish). </p>
<p><b>To Market, To Market</b></p>
<p>The sites and sounds of the market can be exciting for kids. Children can assist in choosing fruits and vegetables, counting them as they place them in bags, tasting samples and listening to buskers. Have them look for letters or numbers on signs and find things with certain colours or shapes. </p>
<p><b>Trains, Buses and Streetcars</b></p>
<p>Next rainy day, travel through your city by taking as many methods of public transportation as possible. In one day, my son thrilled in riding a bus, streetcar and subway! He talked to the drivers along the way, met interesting people, explored many subway stops and loved looking out the window at all the different neighbourhoods. You don't even need a destination - just travel in one giant loop! </p>
<p><b>Toy Stores and Hobby Shops</b></p>
<p>Better than museums, toy stores and hobby shops usually allow for great hands-on experiences! Don't have your own Thomas track and engines? No problem, most toy and hobby stores have tracks and trains set up for kids to play with. </p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=164" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxPreparing for your Camping Triphttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/preparing-for-your-camping-trip.aspx2007-08-03T15:43:00Z2007-08-03T15:43:00Z<p>Camping with children takes planning and preparation, because like the weather, you never know what to expect! </p>
<p>Here are a few tips to help you prepare:</p>
<ul>
<li>Have a practice run in the backyard. Teach children how to set up the tent, prepare the campsite, etc. and allow them to experience what it will be like to sleep outdoors, in a tent, and in a sleeping bag. </li>
<li>Pack easy to make foods that children will enjoy. Pasta and sauce, mac and cheese, instant oatmeal, canned and boxed foods are all good choices. Don't forget fruits, nuts and other snacks, as well as juice and plenty of water. </li>
<li>Organize and pack your gear in plastic bins with lids and label each bin (with words or images) accordingly. This helps keep your camp site organized and your gear dry. </li>
<li>Don't forget toys - books, water toys, travel games and a deck of cards are all good to have around. Flashlights are great for nighttime shadow play. Toys from the dollar store are also good because you won't have to worry about them getting dirty, broken, or left behind! </li></ul>
<p>While at camp, why not try some of these ideas: </p>
<ul>
<li>Involve your kids in all the day-to-day camp chores - setting up camp, preparing food, cleaning-up, etc. </li>
<li>Mark out a boundary for your children. Let them know that they cannot leave the area without a parent/adult.</li>
<li>Encourage your kids to keep a written journal or scrapbook of the trip. </li>
<li>Set up an umbrella or canopy to allow shade opportunities. Clip-on stroller umbrellas are great for use on canoes, kayaks and rowboats.</li>
<li>For bug protection, try spraying the outside of the tent with bug repellent to minimize bugs at camp. You can also spray your kids' clothes, instead of their bodies. Look for alternatives, such as citronella, instead of chemical sprays.</li></ul>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=163" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Western Canada/Prairies – Springhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-western-canada-prairies-spring.aspx2007-08-03T15:42:00Z2007-08-03T15:42:00Z<p>Whether you are planning a specific road trip or weekend excursions with your family, the following list may help you decide on your spring getaway locations.</p>
<p><b>Winnipeg</b><b> International Children's Festival </b></p>
<p>Winnipeg, MB</p>
<p>Held each year in early June, this festival features over 30 shows daily, hands-on activities, as well as a mix of local, national and international musicians, dancers and puppeteers. <a href="http://www.kidsfest.ca/">http://www.kidsfest.ca/</a></p>
<p><b>Calgary International Children's Festival</b> </p>
<p>Calgary, AB</p>
<p>This annual festival, held in May, offers an opportunity for young people to learn more about the arts, to develop their creativity and connect with our rich Canadian heritage. <a href="http://www.calgarychildfest.org/">http://www.calgarychildfest.org/</a></p>
<p><b>The Vancouver International Children's Festival </b></p>
<p>Vancouver, BC </p>
<p>This weeklong event in May celebrates the spirit and curiosity of children everywhere through international music, theatre, dance, storytelling, puppetry and circus arts. <a href="http://www.vancouverchildrensfestival.com/">http://www.vancouverchildrensfestival.com/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=162" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Western Canada – Fallhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-western-canada-fall.aspx2007-08-03T15:40:00Z2007-08-03T15:40:00Z<p>Summer may be easing into fall, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some amazing festivals and fairs just waiting to be experienced. Canada is home to a wide variety of fall events, one (or all!) of which is bound to entertain and amuse even the fussiest of preschoolers!</p>
<p><b>Annual Children's Art Festival </b></p>
<p>Victoria, BC</p>
<p>An artistic experience for the whole family! Children of all ages are invited to this one-day event hosted by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Explore galleries, try your hand at painting, printmaking, collage and pottery, and enjoy teddy-bear story time, storytelling, comedy shows and much, much more. <a href="http://aggv.bc.ca/">http://aggv.bc.ca/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=161" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Prairies/North – Winterhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-prairies-north-winter.aspx2007-08-03T15:38:00Z2007-08-03T15:38:00Z<p>Don't let your family hibernate this winter! Avoid cabin fever and celebrate winter by taking part in some of the incredible events happening across the Great White North.</p>
<p><b>Le Festival du Voyageur </b></p>
<p>Winnipeg, MB</p>
<p>This ten-day celebration in February is Western Canada' largest winter festival. Reflecting Canada's unique French Canadian heritage and honouring our historical fur trade era there are arts and crafts, exhibits and displays, traditional food and many other fun winter events offering a little something for everyone. <a href="http://www.festivalvoyageur.mb.ca/">http://www.festivalvoyageur.mb.ca/</a></p>
<p><b>Enchanted Forest</b></p>
<p>Saskatoon, SK</p>
<p>One of Canada's largest drive-through Christmas light shows, the Enchanted Forest will cast a spell over your children. Held annually from late November to early January, the towering trees of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park provide the perfect background for 1,000 images illuminated by over one million Christmas lights offering one of the most incredible holiday light displays in Canada. <a href="http://www.enchanted-forest.org/">http://www.enchanted-forest.org/</a></p>
<p><b>Yellowknife</b><b> Aurora Festival </b></p>
<p>Yellowknife, NT</p>
<p>The Yellowknife Aurora Festival invites you to experience life under the lights - the northern lights that is! During the month of March, your family will enjoy exhibits, concerts, activities and, of course, the lights themselves. <a href="http://www.aurorafestival.com/">http://www.aurorafestival.com/</a></p>
<p><b>Annual Caribou Carnival Festival </b></p>
<p>Yellowknife, NT</p>
<p>Held every March (or April) the Caribou Carnival was originally launched as a competition to crown a Bush King. Today, the festival has expanded to include snow sculptures, a pond hockey tournament, a children's art contest, a Canadian championship dog derby, clown shows as well as kids craft and activity tents. <a href="http://www.cariboucarnival.com/">http://www.cariboucarnival.com/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=160" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Prairies/North – Summerhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-prairies-north-summer.aspx2007-08-03T15:27:00Z2007-08-03T15:27:00Z<p>Whether traveling for the summer or just spending a week or two together, Canada's offering of festivals, fairs and events is nearly endless. Below is a list of events to spark your imagination as you plan your family's holiday.</p>
<p><b>Buffalo Days Provincial Exhibition</b></p>
<p>Regina, SK</p>
<p>Saskatchewan's largest summer fair, Regina's Buffalo Days in August features a midway, parades, free stages, food and exhibits. It is bound to please everyone! <a href="http://www.buffalodays.ca/">http://www.buffalodays.ca/</a></p>
<p><b>Calgary</b><b> Stampede </b></p>
<p>Calgary, AB</p>
<p>Held in July, the Calgary Stampede is a great experience for the cowboy/cowgirl in all of us. Events include a parade, rodeos, chuck wagon races, music, midway and stage shows. Great fun for the whole family! <a href="http://calgarystampede.com/">http://calgarystampede.com/</a></p>
<p><b>Klondike</b><b> Days </b></p>
<p>Edmonton, AB</p>
<p>Edmonton celebrates its rich gold rush history every July with its annual Klondike Days fair and parade. Midway rides, horse races, marketplaces, stage shows are among the many attractions. <a href="http://www.klondikedays.com/">http://www.klondikedays.com/</a></p>
<p><strong>Summer Solstice Festival </strong></p>
<p>Yellowknife, NT</p>
<p>Celebrate the midnight sun during Yellowknife's annual Summer Solstice Festival. This five-day multicultural celebration in June features performers, workshops, interactive educational activities, vendors and side shows. <a href="http://www.solsticefestival.ca/">http://www.solsticefestival.ca/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=159" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Ontario/Quebec – Winterhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-ontario-quebec-winter.aspx2007-08-03T15:25:00Z2007-08-03T15:25:00Z<p>Don't let your family hibernate this winter! Avoid cabin fever and celebrate winter by taking part in some of the incredible events happening across the Great White North.</p>
<p><b>Quebec</b><b> Winter Carnival </b></p>
<p>Quebec City, QC</p>
<p>Quebec Winter Carnival is one of the largest and most famous winter carnivals in the world. With a children's village, dogsled races, sleigh rides, parades, ice sculptures, soap box derby and a chance to meet Bonhomme, your children won't want to miss a moment of the action. <a href="http://www.carnaval.qc.ca/">http://www.carnaval.qc.ca/</a></p>
<p><b>Winterlude</b></p>
<p>Ottawa, ON and Gatineau, QC</p>
<p>A unique winter celebration held over three weekends in February, Winterlude truly celebrates Canada's northern identity. Your kids will love skating on the Rideau Canal, seeing the incredible ice sculptures and snow carvings, enjoying sleigh rides and romping in playgrounds made of snow. And if you get cold, Beavertails and hot chocolate await you! <a href="http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/winterlude/index.asp?bhcp=1">http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/winterlude/index.asp?bhcp=1</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=158" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Ontario/Quebec – Summerhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-ontario-quebec-summer.aspx2007-08-03T15:24:00Z2007-08-03T15:24:00Z<p>Whether traveling for the summer or just spending a week or two together, Canada's offering of festivals, fairs and events is nearly endless. Below is a list of events to spark your imagination as you plan your family's holiday.</p>
<p><b>Just for Laughs Comedy Festival </b></p>
<p>Montreal, QC</p>
<p>Not just for adults, the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, held annually in July, offers laughs for the little ones too! Just for Kids features an array of events, activities and crafts for kids of all ages. <a href="http://www.hahaha.com/">http://www.hahaha.com/</a></p>
<p><b>International Balloon Festival </b></p>
<p>Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC<br />The largest ballooning festival in Canada showcases incredibly shaped and vibrantly coloured hot air balloons from all over the world. Held in August, the festival features shows, rides and kid's activities. <a href="http://www.montgolfieres.com/en/">http://www.montgolfieres.com/en/</a></p>
<p><strong>Kingston</strong><strong> Buskers Rendezvous</strong></p>
<p>Kingston, ON</p>
<p>The Kingston Buskers Rendezvous is sure to become a family favourite. This four-day festival in July features buskers from around the world. Fire-eaters, jugglers, rope-walkers, acrobats and magicians are sure to entertain your troops. <a href="http://www.kingstonbuskers.com/">http://www.kingstonbuskers.com/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=157" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Ontario/Quebec – Springhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-ontario-quebec-spring.aspx2007-08-03T15:21:00Z2007-08-03T15:21:00Z<p>Whether you are planning a specific road trip or weekend excursions with your family, the following list may help you decide on your spring getaway locations.</p>
<p><b>Ottawa</b><b> Tulip Festival </b></p>
<p>Ottawa, ON and Gatineau, QC</p>
<p>Every May, millions of tulips come into bloom across the nation's capital region, making the area North America's Tulip Capital. The Ottawa Tulip Festival pays tribute to Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, who honoured Canadians with her gift of tulips. In addition to the incredible mosaic of colour, families can enjoy concerts, "Flotilla on the Rideau Canal," the festival's parade on water, as well as special exhibits in the capital's many museums. <a href="http://www.tulipfestival.ca/">http://www.tulipfestival.ca/</a></p>
<p><b>Milk International Festival of the Arts </b></p>
<p>Toronto, ON</p>
<p>Sponsored by the Dairy Farmers of Ontario this festival offers an incredible array of performing art experiences for young audiences. Included in the festivities are shows, acrobats and clowns, children's activities and much, much more. <a href="http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/milk/">http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/milk/</a></p>
<p><b>Sprockets International Film Festival for Children </b></p>
<p>Toronto, ON </p>
<p>The Sprockets International Film Festival for Children, held every April, features engaging film experiences for young movie goers. <a href="http://www.e.bell.ca/filmfest/sprockets/index.asp">http://www.e.bell.ca/filmfest/sprockets/index.asp</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=156" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Ontario – Fallhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-ontario-fall.aspx2007-08-03T15:19:00Z2007-08-03T15:19:00Z<p>Summer may be easing into fall, but that doesn't mean there aren't still some amazing festivals and fairs just waiting to be experienced. Canada is home to a wide variety of fall events, one (or all!) of which is bound to entertain and amuse even the fussiest of preschoolers!</p>
<p><b>The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair </b></p>
<p>Toronto, ON</p>
<p>The Royal Winter Fair is the largest indoor agricultural, horticultural, equestrian and canine event in the world. For ten days in November, the fair boasts an eclectic and incredible mix of activities sure to please your entire family. From exhibits, giant vegetables and butter statues, to horse and dog shows and a petting farm, make sure to check it out! <a href="http://www.royalfair.org/">http://www.royalfair.org/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=155" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspxGreat Canadian Travel Destinations: Eastern Canada – Summerhttp://treehousetv.com/blogs/read_travel/archive/2007/08/03/great-canadian-travel-destinations-eastern-canada-summer.aspx2007-08-03T15:16:00Z2007-08-03T15:16:00Z<p>Whether traveling for the summer or just spending a week or two together, Canada's offering of festivals, fairs and events is nearly endless. Below is a list of events to spark your imagination as you plan your family's holiday.</p>
<p><b>Chocolate Fest </b></p>
<p>St. Stephen's,<strong> </strong>NB</p>
<p>What child doesn't love chocolate? A perfect stop for chocolate lovers everywhere, among the festival's events are a scavenger hunt, chocolate themed brunch, games, crafts, pudding eating contest and Ganong Chocolate factory tours. <a href="http://www.chocolate-fest.ca/index.cfm">http://www.chocolate-fest.ca/index.cfm</a></p>
<p><strong>Shediac Lobster Festival </strong></p>
<p>Shediac, NB</p>
<p>The lobster capital of Canada hosts its annual lobster festival in July. Commemorate this crustacean and enjoy lobster eating contests, kids' day, children's parade, magicians, artists and a host of many other activities. <a href="http://www.lobsterfestival.nb.ca/index.html">http://www.lobsterfestival.nb.ca/index.html</a></p>
<p><strong>Lucy Maude Montgomery Festival </strong></p>
<p>Cavendish, PE</p>
<p>Celebrate PEI's most famous author during the Lucy Maude Montgomery Festival in August. Enjoy a family barn dance, ice cream social, storytelling at Green Gables, Victorian games and afternoon tea. <a href="http://www.lmmontgomeryfestival.com/index.html">http://www.lmmontgomeryfestival.com/index.html</a></p>
<p><b>P.E.I. Potato Blossom Festival</b><b> </b></p>
<p>O'Leary , PE</p>
<p>In July, experience the bright purple and ivory potato blossoms in the province best known for its spuds. This celebration of everything potato includes the Miss P.E.I. Potato Blossom Pageant, children sock hop, petting zoo, horse races, food fair, fireworks, booths and exhibits and a mashed-potato tug of war. <a href="http://www.exhibitions-festivalspeiae.com/peipotatoblossomfestival.html">http://www.exhibitions-festivalspeiae.com/peipotatoblossomfestival.html</a></p>
<p><b>Halifax</b><b> International Busker Festival </b></p>
<p>Halifax, NS</p>
<p>For eleven days in August, the Halifax Busker Festival offers something for everyone. The children's interactive village, face painting, clowns, five stages and internationally renowned street performers make this festival a bonafide hit for everyone. <a href="http://www.solsticefestival.ca/">http://www.solsticefestival.ca/</a></p>
<p>For more information about festivals and events across Canada, visit <a href="http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp">http://www.culture.ca/canada/events-activites-e.jsp</a></p>
<p>By Rochelle Strauss</p><img src="http://treehousetv.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=154" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://treehousetv.com/members/admin.aspx