As the world’s top tennis players battle through their opening rounds at the National Bank Open presented by Rogers, there will be just as much action happening off the courts with the return of the popular 407 ETR Family Weekend in association with VIA Rail, Maple Leaf Foods, Sobeys and Lego.
Held on the grounds of the women’s tournament at Sobeys Stadium in Toronto, the 407 ETR Family Weekend has free admission and takes place over the first weekend of this year’s National Bank Open — Sunday, August 4 and on the Civic Holiday, Monday, August 5.
During this fun-filled weekend, there will be activities for the whole family, including children and family rides on VIA Rail’s mini train — a great way to take a tour of the entire site. There are also meet and greets with characters from some of your kid’s favourite movies and TV shows, including Paw Patrol, Minions, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and more.
Perhaps you have a budding Leylah Fernandez or Bianca Andreescu in your family? If your child is interested in trying tennis for the first time, you won’t want to miss Rogers First Set mini tennis.
A crowd favourite returns to the 407 ETR Family Weekend this year with some silly fun in the form of an epic Air Guitar Contest, a tournament tradition where kids compete to see who can shred the best air guitar.
The arts & crafts station at 407 ETR Family Weekend in 2023.
Contributed
If you enjoy that sort of friendly competition, why not challenge your friends or siblings to an inflatable obstacle course or other fun blow up games? There is also a scavenger hunt where fans can participate in activities, earn stamps and enter a draw for a chance to win fun prizes.
A do not miss event for all ages is the always popular annual ball hockey game, featuring WTA players taking on some of PWHL hockey’s biggest stars.
There is plenty to do for the artistic crowd as well. Showcase your creativity in making tennis themed crafts in the Arts and Crafts area, and unleash your imagination and get drawing on the Drawing Wall. Kids can also get their face painted with the image of their choice or, choose from over 200 unique designs and get some airbrushed ink.
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Watch as balloon experts shape balloons into all sorts of objects and designs. A caricature artist will also be on hand so fans can get their portrait drawn in traditional caricature style. And look out for fun and engaging activities with Lego and their building bricks.
If you’re looking for snacks, cool down with a Sno-Cone or enjoy some cotton candy, a classic treat to make a great day at the tournament even better.
The site is stroller accessible and admission includes access to the National Bank Open qualifying matches on a first-come, first-serve basis.