| 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 $278.93 (with tax) and includes:
- Up to 18 guests (10 children included, $12.60 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 $173.09 (with tax) and includes:
- Up to 18 guests (10 children included, $7.35 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
|
|
Winter Program Registration
Register for Winter Heritage Programs
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
Social Skills 101 for Teens
Social Skills101 for Children
DDO Administration Building Historical Tour
Spring Program Registration
Richmond Hill 150 Walk and Learn Historical Tours
Celebrate Richmond Hill’s 150th Anniversary! Enjoy fresh air, exercise and a healthy walk through a historic neighbourhood and discover your community heritage!
All Walk and Learn tours run rain or shine, so please wear appropriate attire.
Tours run 1.5 to 2 hours.
Fee: $4:50 per person, pre-registration required.
| 150 Walk and Learn - Gormley Heritage District |
|
Date: Tuesday April 18th
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: The corner Farmer Court and Gormley Street West
Steeped in history, The Hamlet of Gormley is a gem in Richmond Hill. Settlement here began with the arrival of Pennsylvania German immigrants in the first decade of the 19th century. Our tour will focus on the heritage homes of this unique settlement that grew from a small farming community to a hamlet that was at one time a bustling stop for the railroad.
Register
|
| 150 Walk and Learn - Richmond Hill’s Rose Industry |
|
Date: Sunday May 28th
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Heritage Centre/Amos Wright Park - 19th Church Street North
The rose industry was Richmond Hill’s major employer during the early half of the last century. In fact, the greenhouses played a key role in Richmond Hill’s ability to survive the Great Depression. Come walk through an area of the City’s early economic and demographic growth as you discover why Richmond Hill was once called the “Rose Capital of Canada”. A registered adult must accompany all registered participants under the age of 16.
Register
|
| 150 Walk and Learn -The Mill Pond Area |
|
Date: Tuesday June 20th
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Mill Pond Park Gazebo.
Enjoy fresh air, exercise and a healthy walk through a historic neighbourhood and discover your community heritage! 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. This walk through the area will look at the various businesses that made Richmond Hill an attractive place to settle in the 19th century.
Register
|
|
Summer Camp Registration
Register for Heritage Centre Summer Camp
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
Register for camp using the online registration system.
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.
|
|
Take a walk back in time! Schools, community groups, families and friends are invited to book one of our many Heritage Discovery Packages. 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 Package
| 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: $120.00 for up to 20 people, $6.00 per additional person (14 and under)
$135.60 for up to 20 people, $6.78 per additional person (15 and over)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $130.00 for up to 20 people, $6.50 per additional person (14 and under)
$146.90 for up to 20 people, $7.35 per additional person (15 and over)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $120.00 for up to 20 people, $6.00 per additional person (14 and under)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $130.00 for up to 20 people, $6.50 per additional person (14 and under)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $120.00 for up to 20 people, $6.00 per additional person (14 and under)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $140.00 for up to 20 people, $7.00 per additional person (14 and under)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
| 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: $130.00 for up to 20 people, $6.50 per additional person (14 and under)
Availability: Daytime September to June: Mondays, Tuesday Mornings and Thursdays
|
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.
|
|
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: $52.50 for up to 20 people, $2.62 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: $84 for up to 20 people, $2.62 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: $52.50 for up to 20 people, $2.62 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: $81.90 for up to 12 people, $6.82 per additional person (14 and under)
$92.55 for up to 12 people, $7.71 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: $81.90 for up to 12 people, $6.82 per additional person (14 and under)
$92.55 for up to 12 people, $7.71 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: $275.82 for up to 12 people, $18.37 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 DDO - A History
The David Dunlap Observatory 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 David Dunlap Observatory.
Growing Up Yonge - Part One the 19th 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 - $120 for up to 20 people. $6.00 for each person.
Virtual - $100 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 - 4 p.m.
Fee: $22.05 + 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 the Heritage Services and the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre
|
| 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. |
|
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 $10 administration fee deducted from any refund.
|
| 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. |
|
|
