From the Editor

As a former daily news journalist, Ottawa resident since 2007 and mother of two active kids who like to see and do all the things, there are very few festivals, events, or attractions that I haven’t been to at least once (and that’s the truth, not just a weird flex). I’m always surprised when I meet a fellow Ottawan who hasn’t visited our local museums, yet makes an annual trip to Whistler.

I understand that it may be more exciting to make that trek, but residents of the National Capital Region are fortunate to have a wide variety of entertainment options right outside our front doors. Although the event calendar is packed year-round, summer—with time off and favourable weather—is arguably the best season to take advantage of what Ottawa has to offer. It seems fitting that for our Summer 2024 issue, Parenting Times Magazine is pleased to announce the return of the 12 Great Family Fun Events feature—our first list since the start of COVID-19.

Learning doesn’t come to a screeching halt after the last dismissal bell rings. For Focus on Education, we chatted with local educators about what they think is the best vacation plan for growing minds. Hint: it may not be what you think, so pause your order on that stack of workbooks until you peruse the story. Of course, reading for the pleasure of it is always a worthwhile pastime. We have a list of hot summer reads—new books by Canadian authors and illustrators—in Just for Kids.

If you’re taking the summer camp route for a creative youngster who’s always sketching or making something, look no further than ByWard Market’s Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy, which offers fashion camps for fashionistas ages eight to 17. We chatted with the academy’s director about this iconic bespoke style institution. 

Eyeing some downtime? Fire up your music streaming service of choice and explore the works of some new-to-you classic children’s entertainers. Sheryl Bennett-Wilson chatted with entertainer, producer and ecology advocate Raffi, and profiled nine other Canadians you should favourite. On your next walking tour of our city, check out the vintage photos courtesy of Lost Ottawa and try to envision what local landmarks used to look like. Last but not least, our columnists share their favourite staycation spots. Who knows? The go-to spots for Chris Hunt, Kita Szpak and Jon Willing may become staples for your family, too.

The tendency to forgo local attractions for something that we imagine is better just because it’s farther away, is real. Just think of it this way: #supportlocal, #loveottawa, and consider these all the goings-on we may not be taking full advantage of as a perk of living in the city. This season is going to fly by. Let’s get on it.

Best wishes,

Tracey