Heritage Programs

Heritage Services Programs and Activities

Heritage Services is committed to having programs and events that celebrate the Richmond Hill community. Heritage programs are offered at the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre, A.J. Clark Interpretive Centre and many of our community centres. We offer something for all ages.

Learn more by selecting from the list of programs and activities below:

Registered Programs

Fall Program Registration

The Fall Program schedule is now available to view – Create your wishlist today!

Registration will begin Tuesday, August 20, for Richmond Hill Residents and Tuesday, August 27, for non-residents.

We offer a variety of programs, heritage tours, and lectures where participants can discover Richmond Hill’s unique heritage, learn a new skill or enjoy meeting new friends. Programs are offered at the Heritage Centre and other locations in the community.

Knitting - Sheep Strings Cafe

Knitting -Beginner/Intermediate

Manners Matter – Children

Manners Matter – Teen

Holiday Craft Workshops for Adults

Get in the holiday spirit, and get a head start on your decorating and gift giving. We will crank up everyone's favourite holiday tunes and have a blast working on unique projects for the upcoming season. Sign up for individual workshops or sign up for all seven at a discounted price.

Holiday Craft Workshops: Seven Class Discount Package l Tuesdays October 22 – December 3

Tuesday, October 22 – Tuesday, December 3

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Sign up for all seven (7) workshops listed below at a discounted price. Material fees will be collected at the beginning of the workshops. Please view each Holiday Craft Workshop description for more details.

Folded Book Art - A Singing Angel
Fill Up Your Cup with Christmas Cheer!
Reed Weaving: Holiday Ornaments
Baubles and Boxes
Spread the Cheer - Christmas Keepsakes
Double Your Fun Décor
Mr. Snowman and His Buddies - 2 Elves!

Folded Book Art - A Singing Angel l Tuesday, October 22

Tuesday, October 22

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Repurpose, recycle and “upcycle” a paperback book headed for landfill by using ever popular book folding techniques of folded book art. By simply folding pages of a book, a beautiful angel will appear to the delight of everyone, as a lovely free standing table topper holiday decoration. A $10 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Fill Up Your Cup with Christmas Cheer! l Tuesday, October 29

Tuesday, October 29

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

By using beautiful china tea cups, you can design a tiny Christmas diorama filled with miniature figures and greenery. These sweet re-imagined Victorian Christmas decorations can sit on a table or hang on a tree. Lined with vintage lace, you can create little scenes of Christmas bliss. Fill up your cup with Christmas Cheer! A $15 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Reed Weaving: Holiday Ornaments l Tuesday, November 5

Tuesday, November 5

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to weave a reindeer and a star to hang in your window or on the Christmas tree. These reed ornaments have many uses for your holiday decorating needs and make great gifts. A $ 10 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Baubles and Boxes l Tuesday, November 12

Tuesday, November 12

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

In this workshop, we will be using an assortment of pretty paper and recycled Christmas cards to make delightful 3D ornaments and little boxes. The boxes are ideal for gift card presentations, small gifts or treats. The embellished ornaments will look lovely on your tree or adorning a special gift. A $10 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Spread the Cheer - Christmas Keepsakes l Tuesday, November 19

Tuesday, November 19

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Create unique party or table favours for your holiday table. Treat your family and friends to a unique and thoughtful take home gift during the holidays. Place one of these pretty holiday themed "mitten" standing favours at each person's setting and fill them with candies or other treats. A place card is attached to personalize each one. Make a set of six. Truly a Christmas Keepsake. A $10 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Double Your Fun Décor l Tuesday, November 26

Tuesday, November 26

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Decoupaging paper napkins is all the rage in crafting! Update the vintage craft of decoupage by crafting these delicate images onto wooden plaques that are reversible –- giving you double your fun décor for the coming seasons. A $10 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Mr. Snowman and His Buddies - 2 Elves! l Tuesday, December 3

Tuesday, December 3

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.

Create a nostalgic snowman and his two elf buddies made from mid-century craft materials, bump chenille, spun cotton heads and little hats for fun! Perfect to fill that little spot where you hide a cute snowman peeking out with his elf friends. All three make up a table topper or hanging tree ornaments. A $15 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of the workshop.

Walk and Learn Historical Tours

The outdoor Walk and Learn Tours are back!

Enjoy fresh air, exercise and a healthy walk through a historic building, neighbourhood or park while discovering Richmond Hill community heritage with a knowledgeable guide.

Tours run rain or shine. Wear appropriate attire for walking outdoors.

Duration 1.5 – 2 hours.

No registration required. Free admission.

Thank you to our 2024 partner, Richmond Hill Historical Society

North Yonge Street – A Vibrant Village! - Sunday, September 22

North Yonge Street – A Vibrant Village!

Date: Sunday, September 22, 1 p.m.

Meet up Location: Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts - 10268 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill

North Yonge Street in the village core is a unique part of the city. Enjoy this tour featuring a history of politics, education, medicine and the arts!

Arrive at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts (10268 Yonge Street) and look for the Walk and Learn sandwich board.

Sports History - Sunday, October 6

Sports History

Date: Sunday, October 6, 1 p.m.

Meet up Location: Elgin Barrow Arena - 43 Church Street South, Richmond Hill

Sports and recreation have played an integral part of Richmond Hill’s history. From the annual Spring Fair to organized sports, this walk will focus on the historic locations, celebrated championships, athletes, teams, and supporters who have shaped the sports community in our City. Includes a guided tour of the Richmond Hill Sports Hall of Fame.

Arrive at the Elgin Barrow Arena (43 Church Street South) and look for the Walk and Learn sandwich board.

Mill Pond Industry and Commerce - Sunday, October 20

Mill Pond Industry and Commerce

Date: Sunday, October 20, 1 p.m.

Meet up Location: Mill Pond Park Gazebo - 321 Mill Street, Richmond Hill

Mill Pond, named for the sawmill operation that used the pond for power. Today's Mill Pond is a place of recreation, but did you know when it was first created in the mid 1830s, it was a hub of industry and commerce and an important component of Richmond Hill's culture heritage. On this walk, participants will explore a place of natural beauty while learning about the many industries that made the heart of Richmond Hill an attractive place to settle in the early 19th century.

Arrive at Mill Pond Park Gazebo (321 Mill Street) and look for the Walk and Learn sandwich board.

Children’s Birthday Party Packages

Victorian Tea Party

What will party guests do?

Guests, ages 5 to 12, will enjoy making a calling card and potpourri sachet. Learn interesting facts about the Victorian time, including proper etiquette for young ladies and gentlemen of the era. Complete your party with a traditional afternoon tea, enjoying finger sandwiches, cookies and a secret "fairy tea".

Where will the party be?

Victorian Tea Parties are held at Richmond Hill's Heritage Centre.

What's included in the cost of a package?

The Victorian Tea Party package costs $353.98 (with tax) and includes:

Up to 18 guests (10 children included, $15.99 for each additional child, maximum 15 children)
One-hour craft time hosted by a skilled instructor
Gallery tour
A take home craft for each child (potpourri and calling cards)
One hour use of the Gardenview Room
Traditional Victorian Tea with finger sandwiches, cookies and secret "fairy tea"

To book a party, use our online party package request form

Victorian Parlour Party

What will party guests do?

Guests, ages 5 to 12, will enjoy making a calling card, and potpourri sachet. Learn interesting facts about the Victorian time, including proper etiquette for young ladies and gentlemen of the era.

Where will the party be?

Victorian Tea Parties are held at Richmond Hill's Heritage Centre.

What's included in the cost of a package?

The Victorian Parlour Party package costs $219.68 (with tax) and includes:

Up to 18 guests (10 children included, $9.32 for each additional child, maximum 15 children)
One-hour craft time hosted by a skilled instructor
Gallery tour
A take home craft for each child (potpourri and calling cards)
One hour use of the Gardenview Room, unstaffed for party celebrations

To book a party, use our online party package request form

Summer Camp

Summer Camp Registration

Thank you for joining us for a great summer of Discovery at the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre.

Check back in January for the 2025 Summer Camp listings. Registration begins January 28, 2025, for Richmond Hill residents and February 4, 2025 for non-residents.

Summer Camp at the Heritage Centre offers a unique experience for your child in a smaller setting. Children will enjoy hands on activities, games and interactive experiences in our galleries learning about the community and more.

Arts and Crafts Factory, Ages: 4-7 - Half day

Dino Adventure Camp, Ages: 4-7 - Half day

Discovery Camp, Ages: 6-11 - Full Day

Camp Information

What you need to know before your first day

We are so glad your camper is embarking on their adventure with us!

To help your first day go smoothly, please complete the Camper Intake Form prior to the first day of camp.

There will be one lunch break and two snack breaks. Please remember that all camps are NUT-FREE (this includes packaging that “May Contain Nuts”. If your snack is homemade, please include a note stating it is “Nut-Free”). Bring a pre-filled water bottle too.

All camps will have some outdoor component, so make sure to dress accordingly to weather conditions.

To help you organize your camper for the first day, here’s a handy Camper Checklist:

NUT-FREE Lunch and 2 snacks
Pre-filled water bottle
Outdoor clothing
Extra Mask (optional)
Fill out Camper Intake Form
Lots of energy and a great attitude!

Important Forms

To help your first day go smoothly, please complete the Camper Intake Form prior to the first day of camp.

How to register

Register online

Still want to register in person?

Complete a registration form and drop it off in-person at one of our community centres.

Please call 905-771-8870 if you require further assistance.

Transfers/Withdrawals

To transfer into another program or cancel your registration, please complete the following form(s) and email it to recreation@richmondhill.ca

Volunteers

Volunteers play an important part in Richmond Hill Summer Camps. Volunteers work directly with campers under the supervision of City staff counsellors and supervisors. Some of the roles of a volunteer include facilitation of camp activities and games, assisting with arts and crafts, and set up and take down of activities.

Are you looking to gain some experience in a camp setting? Sign up to be a Richmond Hill volunteer to have access to the volunteer postings for summer camp. For more information, visit RichmondHill.ca/Volunteers.

Withdrawal Policy

Program Withdrawal

Can't participate in a registered program anymore? Transfers and Withdrawals can be completed online at RichmondHill.ca/ActiveRH or through written form.

Visit RichmondHill.ca/ActiveRH and Log in with your email address and password.
View Account History and use the Transfer or Withdraw buttons to manage your current enrollments.
If you are eligible for a refund, select refund to credit card. Or, select refund to account for future enrollments. Note: Refunds to account are final.

Or fill out the Withdrawal Request Form and email the completed form to our Recreation Department.

If applicable, please allow 2 to 4 weeks for refund processing. Submission of a form does not guarantee that a refund will be issued, and non-attendance at a program does not constitute a notice of withdrawal. Withdrawal requests will only be accepted through ActiveRH or by Withdrawal Request Form. Requests to “Refund to Account” are final.

Program Transfer Policy

Transfer requests will only be accepted through ActiveRH or by Transfer Request Form. Transfers will be processed according to the criteria outlined below, provided that there is space available in the requested activity.

Situation	Action
If you withdraw less than 5 business days prior to the course start date for Summer Camps, Winter Break Camps, March Break Camps, School Holiday Programs, Aquatic Leadership Courses or one-day workshops...	No credit or refund will be issued.
If you withdraw from the courses not listed above using ActiveRH 2 or more business days prior to the course start date…	You will receive a full credit or refund as requested.*
If we receive your Withdrawal Request Form 2 or more business days prior to the course start date…	You will receive a full credit or refund as requested.*
If we receive your Withdrawal Request Form less than 2 business days prior to the course start date…	You will receive a full credit on your account for future use. If you request a refund, you will receive a full refund less a $15 administration fee.*
If we receive your Withdrawal Request Form on or after the first day and up to one business day prior to the third day of the course…	You will receive a pro-rated credit or refund for any classes remaining as of the date the Refund Request Form is received, less a $15 administration fee.*
If we receive your Withdrawal Request Form on or after the third day of the course or after the program has ended…	No credit or refund will be issued.
If we receive your Withdrawal Request Form accompanied by a doctor’s note indicating that the participant can no longer attend due to medical reasons…	You will receive a pro-rated credit for any classes remaining as of the date the Withdrawal Request Form and doctor’s note are received.
If we cancel your program …	You will receive a full credit or refund as requested.
If the participant is withdrawn by our staff due to program incompatibility...	You will receive a prorated credit for any classes remaining as of the date of withdrawal.
If we receive your Transfer Request Form less than 5 business days prior to the course start date for Winter Break Camps, March Break Camps, School Holiday Programs, Summer Camps, Aquatic Leadership Courses, or one-day workshops...	No credit or refund will be issued.
If we receive your Transfer Request Form prior to the course start date...	You will receive a full credit for the course transferred out of.
If we receive your Transfer Request Form up to and including the second day of the course (third class for swimming lessons)...	You will receive a prorated credit for the course transferred out of. You will not receive a credit for the class that takes place on the day we receive your Transfer Request Form.

Inclusion Services

The City of Richmond Hill welcomes and encourages individuals of all abilities to participate in our Heritage Services programs. We are dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive opportunities for all. The Heritage Centre is a fully accessible site. To learn more and see how we can assist with your needs, please visit our Inclusion Services web page.

Group, School and Private Packages

Schools, community groups, families, older adults and friends are all invited to book one of our many Heritage Discovery Packages and take a walk back in time! Enjoy guided tours, a private tea and tour party, curriculum programs for schools, and activities for Youth Service Groups.

Learn more about each Heritage Program and Discovery Packages

Outcome of the War of 1812: First Nations Betrayed - September 23 - 26

Limited Edition Discovery Tour for School Groups - September 23 - 26

In commemoration of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, school groups are invited to take a FREE 1-hour self-guided tour of the Outcome of the War of 1812: First Nations Betrayed exhibit from September 23-26. Spaces are limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

To request a booking please fill out the online request form

Discovery Packages for Schools

Our Discovery Packages for Schools are designed to meet the requirements outlined in the Ontario curriculum. We are pleased to provide the Curriculum Connections and Objectives for each program to assist teachers with their planning.

To request a booking, please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Cloaked in History - What's in Your Closet?

Using clothing from the Richmond Hill Collections, students look at clothing through 1800s and 1900s. They discuss the changes in clothing styles and its social impact. During the visit, students will have the opportunity to view Richmond Hill's Historical Collection with historical artifacts and art pieces.

Location: Artifact Storage Facility (City of Richmond Hill Operations Centre), 1200 Elgin Mills Road East, ON L4C 1M4

Grades: 1 to 8 and 10

Subject: Social Studies and History

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grades 1 to 8

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grade 10

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under)
$149.60 for up to 20 people, $7.46 per additional person (15 and over)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person option available only.

For King and Empire

Participants learn about the ever-changing roles and the dramatic impact on ordinary men and women of Canada, both during and after the Great War of 1914-1918. Local historical documents and artifacts are used for a better understanding. When Canada came of age, it attained international status as a nation entering the new postwar world. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Grade: 10

Subject: History

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grade 10

Duration: 2.5 hours (Optional 1.5 hours without walking tour)

Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under)
$161.59 for up to 20 people, $8.08 per additional person (15 and over)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.

Lights Around the World

Light and fire are a common element in many faiths, traditions and customs around the world. Students discover and examine a variety of cultural and traditional celebrations that are found in Canadian communities.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Grades: 1 and 2

Subject: Social Studies

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grades 1 & 2

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person option available only.

Patterns for Living

Participants gain an understanding of early settlement land use and how geographical characteristics made Richmond Hill an attractive destination. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Grades: 7 and 8

Subject: History and Geography

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grades 7 & 8

Duration: 2.5 hours

Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.

Pencil and Paper

Students illustrate the principles of design, through analysis and creation of their own works of art. During the visit, students will have the opportunity to view Richmond Hill's Historical Collection with historical artifacts and art pieces.

Location: Artifact Storage Facility (City of Richmond Hill Operations Centre), 1200 Elgin Mills Road East, ON L4C 1M4

Grades: 3 to 8

Subject: Art

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grades 3 to 8

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $132 for up to 20 people, $6.60 per additional person (14 and under)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person option available only.

Trade and Industry

Students learn about Canada’s growth from the fur trade into one of the world’s most important provider of natural resources. Using local historical documents and artifacts, students examine how trade and industry shaped the country from early First Nations to the present day. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Duration: 3 hours

Grades: 4 to 6

Subject: Social Studies

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grades 4 to 6

Duration: 3 hours

Fee: $154 for up to 20 people, $7.70 per additional person (14 and under)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.

Traveller's Trunk

Ontario has always been a destination for newcomers who bring their skills and spirit of adventure to their new land. Students explore our early and recent settlers to this region and what they may have brought with them. This program includes a walking tour of the heritage neighbourhood.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Grade: 3 and 6

Subject: Social Studies

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grade 3

Curriculum Connections and Objectives: Grade 6

Duration: 2.5 hours (Optional 1.5 hours without walking tour)

Fee: $143 for up to 20 people, $7.15 per additional person (14 and under)

Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays

In-person or virtual options available. Please indicate your preference when submitting the booking form.

Can't make it to us? We'll come to you!

All of our programs can be brought to the classroom with our knowledgeable instructors.

NEW! Discovery Packages for Older Adults

“We’ve Got a Story to Tell!” Our knowledgeable instructors will deliver themed presentations in long-term care facilities and retirement residences, adult day programs and seniors’ groups.

Our presentations provide a welcoming environment for participants to interact with historical artifacts, photographs and documents. They help promote meaningful conversation by engaging participants in hands-on experiences and encourage memory activation through storytelling. The programs are developed for older adults who live with cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, and social isolation.

Delivery:

Participants are seated in a semi-circle
Items are presented to the group
- Use of multisensorial objects—varying textures and sizes—helps to activate different memories
- Objects will fit in hands and lap
- Place on dark tray to increase contrast
Pass items around for hands-on exploration
Allow everyone to comment
- Open ended questions

Let’s share stories and showcase Richmond Hill's unique heritage!

Duration: Up to 1 hour

Location: Outreach Program - Heritage Services staff come to your site.

Fee:

$90.09 for up to 12 people, $7.50 per additional person (maximum 15 people) (HST applicable)
Locations outside the Municipality of Richmond Hill are subject to a mileage fee.

Available: Year-round. Daytime: Mondays, Tuesday (mornings) and Thursdays

To request a booking, please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Cloaked in History

Explore Clothing through 1800s and 1900s and discuss the changes in clothing styles and its social impact.

School Days

Let’s wander down memory lane to learn about a 19th century student’s experience through artifacts and photographs.

Home is Where the Heart Is

Examine home life in 19th century Richmond Hill through artifacts.

Richmond Hill: Village to City

Explore the growth of Richmond Hill through photographs.

Around the World: Faiths, Traditions, and Customs

Examine a variety of cultural and traditional celebrations that are found in Canadian communities.

Discovery Tours

Discover your community’s heritage! We offer a number of tour packages that will allow your group to have a private tour of the Heritage Centre galleries or the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory. Perhaps get some fresh air, exercise and walk through a historic neighbourhood!

To request a booking please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Discovery Tour: Richmond Hill Heritage Centre

Learn about Richmond Hill's unique heritage viewing our recently renovated galleries, Learn about this 1840s regency-style house and its original owner, Amos Wright. There will be opportunities to ask questions, time for independent gallery viewing.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Ages: 7 years and up

Duration: 1 hour

Fee: $58.96 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST

Availability: Year-round Daytime/Early Evening

Discovery Tour: Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory

Come on a tour of the Administration Building to learn about the history of the land and see the architectural features of this Beaux-Arts style building. This tour includes the opportunity to see the Observatory's 74-inch telescope. Note, this tour is a historical focus of the RHDDO site and does not include astronomy presentations or a demonstration of the 74” telescope.

Location: David Dunlap Observatory, 123 Hillsview Drive, Richmond Hill

Ages: 7 years and up

Duration: 1 hour

Fee: $92.40 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST

Availability: Year-round Daytime/Early Evening

Discovery Tour: Guided Neighbourhood Walks

Walk through 200 years of history in Richmond Hill's historical neighbourhoods and explore how the patterns of settlement have shaped this original crossroad of human occupation.

Choose from the following Tours:

Church Street and the Bright Lights of Yonge Street
Yonge Street West - The Village Backstreets
Gormley West - Heritage District
Mill Pond
Yonge Street North and beyond

Ages: 7 years and up

Duration: 1.5-2 hour

Fee: $58.96 for up to 20 people, $2.95 per additional person plus HST

Availability: Year-round Daytime/Early Evening

Discovery Tours and Activity Packages

A great outing for your Guide and Scout groups. These programs can also be adapted for ESL classes, community groups or just a get together with friends.

To request a booking please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Udderly Funtastic

Explore Richmond Hill's dairy industry and learn to churn butter the old-fashioned way! Participants also create a craft.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Ages: 5 to 9

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $90.09 for up to 12 people, $7.50 per additional person (14 and under)

$101.80 for up to 12 people, $8.48 per additional person (15 and over)

Available: Year-round. Daytime, Evenings

Just Dyeing to Know

This hands-on activity places emphasis on 19th Century wool and yarn production. Participants investigate how different petals, leaves and bark can create fabric dyes.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Ages: 5 to 9

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $90.09 for up to 12 people, $7.50 per additional person (14 and under)

$101.80 for up to 12 people, $8.48 per additional person (15 and over)

Available: Year-round. Daytime, Evenings

The Canadian Community

Learn about the importance of communities, while exploring our early and current Richmond Hill Community. Also learn about the national and provincial symbols of Canada, complete a workbook and create a craft.

Location: Heritage Centre, 19 Church Street North, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3E6

Ages: 5 to 9

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: $90.09 for up to 12 people, $7.50 per additional person (14 and under)

$101.80 for up to 12 people, $8.48 per additional person (15 and over)

Available: Year-round. Daytime, Evenings

Discovery Tour and Tea Package

Enjoy a look at the old village and identify homes and/or businesses of significance in the development of the City. Groups can choose from one of our Yonge Street tours. The walking tour is approximately 1.5 followed by a relaxing time in the garden view room or patio enjoying a traditional tea service.

Choose from the following Tours:

Church Street and the Bright Lights of Yonge Street
Yonge Street West - The Village Backstreets
Yonge Street North and beyond

Duration: 3 hours

Fee: $309.55 for up to 12 people, $20.64 per additional person plus HST

Available: Year-round. Daytime, Early Evenings and Weekends.

To request a booking please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Heritage Outreach and Virtual Presentations (HOP)

“We’ve got a Story to Tell.” Your group will enjoy a sit-down visual presentation to learn about personalities, places and events integral to the history of Richmond Hill. We can deliver this presentation in-person at your location or virtually.

Rose Growing in Richmond Hill – A History of a Blooming Important Industry

In the early 20th century Richmond Hill was known as the "rose capital" of Canada and "We've Got a Story to Tell" about the history of this blooming important industry. Join us for this this visual presentation exploring this industry and the several large Greenhouse companies that put Richmond Hill on the map.

Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory - A History

The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO) has been a centre for astronomical research in Canada and a well-known attraction since its opening on May 31, 1935. But did you know this site was a family farm throughout the 19th century and "We've Got a Story to Tell" about the people that played an instrumental role in the development of the property. Join us for this visual presentation to learn about the history of the land and how it became the RHDDO.

Growing Up Yonge - Part One the 19^th Century

Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe officially established Yonge Street in the 1790s. Envisioned as a military road from the Town of York (now Toronto) to Holland Landing, Yonge Street opened up the northern part of York County for settlement and positioned Richmond Hill as an essential stopping point along the two-day journey. Join us for part one of this two-part visual presentation illustrating the growth during the 19th century and the people that were influential in the development of Richmond Hill’s “Main Street”.

Growing Up Yonge – Part Two the 20th Century

In the second part of "Growing up Yonge", we see the evolution of transportation, industry and trade and population growth. Join us for part two of this two-part visual presentation illustrating the role Yonge Street played in the 20th century and how this "Main Street" shaped the village of Richmond Hill.

Heritage Designation – Preserving our Community

Designation of heritage properties is a way of publically acknowledging a property’s cultural heritage value to a community. Designation helps to ensure the conservation of these important places for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. Join us as we explore the designation process referencing some of the City’s designated treasures.

Richmond Hill’s Treasures – Behind the scenes of a Museum Collection

Richmond Hill possesses over 10,000 artifacts related to the City’s social, political and economic history. They are held in public trust for the education and enjoyment of City residents. Join us as we take you behind the scenes to learn about the process of collecting the artifacts while exploring the broader activities involved in museum collecting.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Fee: In-Person at your site

- 134.77 for up to 20 people.
- $153.65 for up to 50 people
- 178.65 for up to 100 people
- 203.65 for up to 150 people

Virtual - $107.21 per presentation.

Available: Year-round. Daytime, Evenings

To request a booking please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Archaeology Discovery Kits

Archaeology to Go!

Take advantage of our hands-on Discovery Kits. Teachers and group leaders may rent Discovery Kits to enhance classroom and/or group presentations.

Discovery Kits contain a number of prehistoric and historic artifacts that students can handle in order to gain a better understanding of these objects. Background material about Richmond Hill's archaeological history and other general information about how these kits will work best for your group is also included.

Duration: 1 week minimum to 2 week maximum rental

Pick Up/Drop Off Location: McConaghy Centre, 10100 Yonge Street Richmond Hill, ON L4C 1T8
Monday to Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Fee: $24.75 + HST per kit per week

Available: Year-round.

To request a booking please review the descriptions and fill out the Discovery Package request form.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heritage Discovery Packages

Will Outdoor teas and Walking Tours still run if the weather is not cooperating?

Yes, all programs will run rain or shine. Teas will be held indoors and we ask that your dress accordingly for the weather for outdoor activities.

What are the supervision requirements for Schools/Youth Service/Children’s Group bookings?

All teachers, group leaders and parents must take an active role in the supervision of their groups.

Group Ratios Required:

One adult for every 10 children between the ages of 5 and 17 years of age
One adult for every five children 4 years old and younger

Alternative arrangements must be made for children not participating in the program, this includes infants.

I have a small group, is there a reduce fee for a smaller group?

Our Private and Group packages have a set minimum fee and we are unable to adjust this for smaller groups. We recommend that you invite another group, more family members or friends to join your group.

Is the Heritage Centre accessible?

Yes, the Heritage Centre has a barrier free accessible ramp located on the north side of the building. All galleries are fully accessible.

What is the Cancellation Policy for Heritage Services Group, School and Private Packages, Facility Rentals and All Occasions Permits?

Please note, this policy requires at least 10 business days’ notice for cancellation/rescheduling, otherwise there is a penalty of half the normal rate. Failure to provide five business days’ notice will result in a penalty of the full normal rate. There is also a $25 administration fee deducted from any refund.

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We want to know what you think about our programs. Complete a Program Evaluation form to give us your feedback. Your input helps us improve our programs and services.

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What will party guests do?

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What will party guests do?

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What's included in the cost of a package?

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