If you’re local to Durham region you definitely know about the bustling town of Bowmanville. A big city with a small-town feel, Bowmanville boasts some great markets, festivals, and even farms (yes, in the city). Here are some amazing things to do in Bowmanville with kids this summer.
Festivals
Bowmanville is also home to many family-friendly events throughout the year. Maple-fest happens yearly in May and is a fantastic celebration of all things yummy. The Rocking Rotary Ribs and Brews festival is back for 2022 and is happening June 10-12. This is a family-friendly event that includes craft beer for parents, and delicious food, games, and vendors for the family. Find all the information about this festival here. Another festival is Apple Fest, which follows a similar theme and takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving. You can expect to find freshly picked apples, apple cider, delicious baked goods, and an artisan and craft market showcasing some the amazing local makers. Find all the latest, most up-do-date information on things to do in Bowmanville here.
Farms and PYO
Although a fairly big city, Bowmanville has several different farms right in or close to Bowmanville itself. These are fantastic locations to bring your kids many times throughout the summer to pick your own fresh berries or fruit, visit the markets, and just to play and have fun! Watson’s Farm is located right in Bowmanville on highway 2. It opens for the 2022 growing season June 2, and offers pick your own strawberries, rasberries, beans, peas, among others, depending on the season. Tractor rides often run on weekends and there is a wonderful play area complete with farm animals to feed and a tractor to ride. Take a look at the blog post all about Watson’s farm from last year.
Another farm, although not in Bowmanville but a short ride away, is Pingles Farm Market. Pingles is located just east of Oshawa on Taunton Road. It is a great destination for families. Pingles offers pick-your-own produce as well as a year round market. They have a play area and have many themed festivals throughout the year. Pingles is definitely a stop for any family this summer.
Hit up a family friendly winery
Umm, wineries and kids? The newest winery in Durham region aims to bring those two things together. 1840 Farmhouse and Vineyard aims to be a family-friendly destination where families and friends can get together, share a bottle of wine in the vineyard while their children play in the newly built play-area. Play-houses, swings, and sandboxes, along with horses in the pasture, chickens, and family friendly dogs will keep your little ones happy while you actually catch up with your friends. I’ll certainly be there many times this summer!
Conservation Areas
Another great family friendly option would be to visit one of the many different conservation areas in and around Bowmanville. Enniskellen is a beautiful spot with a pond and a dock, and is a favourite location for family photos in any month. Stephen’s Gulch is also a great spot to check out. Although technically in Oshawa, McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve is a wonderful spot to explore (leave the dog at home) – similar to other places in Whitby, if you bring some birdseed you might be find yourself feeding birds out of your hand!
What is your favourite thing to do in Bowmanville? Reach out and let me know!
