Youth Programs and Activities

A diverse group of youth friends

The Municipality of Port Hope offers many youth programs in the community. From health and wellness programs to creative art programs, there is a program for everyone. Our registered youth programs provide opportunities to build self-confidence, learn new skills, and build new relationships. 

megaphoneSpring Registration Details

Spring Aquatics: Registration opens Monday, April 15, 2024 at 7:00 a.m. 
Spring Fitness and Programs: Registration opens Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.

 Learn more about session dates, how to register and more on our registration page.

Youth Program Information

Our registered youth programs provide opportunities to build self-confidence, learn new skills, and build new relationships. You can learn more about registration dates and payment options on our register for a program webpage.

 Want more fun? Join us for these youth activities 

Person in the youth centre playing a game
Youth Drop-in Spaces

Come hang out in these safe spaces for free! We have a Youth Centre and a drop-in program at Port Hope High. Bring your friends and join the fun!

Drop in activities including floor hockey, volleyball and badminton
Youth Drop-in Athletics

Come play and hang out with friends. Participate in open gym time, Hoops, or try some drop-in programming. Equipment can be signed out from the front desk.

Skate Park at Town Park in Port Hope
Port Hope Skate Park

The skate park was a new addition to Town Park in 2010. The park is open to anyone and has been a great addition to Port Hope and surrounding communities.

Graphics of flea market items like clothing vase

Featured event: Youth Vendor Flea Market

We're hosting a Youth Vendor Flea Market as part of National Youth Week on Sunday, May 5 from 1:00pm to 4:00 p.m. at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Join us if you love thrifty finds, new goodies, pre-loved treasures, hand-made goods and everything in-between!

 Youth Vendor booth registration details

Calling all youth aged 12 and up! Overflowing closets or too many shoes? Or perhaps you’re a youth entrepreneur with a creative side hustle in need of a platform? Look no further! Free booths available on a first-come, first served basis. As a bonus, youth Flea Market vendors gain free vendor registration at the Port Hope Arts Festival in August!

To register for a booth please contact our Recreation Program Coordinator!

Calendar app on phone

Youth events on our calendar

Many youth events are offered throughout the year. Past events included the skate park kick off, national youth week, and the youth Halloween dance. Please check back for upcoming events or stay up-to-date with our event calendar.

Browse our event calendar

Parks, Recreation and Culture staff have put together a list of fun activities you can do with your family for any season. Make sure you check out our Seasonal Activities page. 

Youth Volunteer Opportunities

Youth working together at the Jack Burger Sports Complex in Port Hope
Youth Action Committee

The Youth Action Committee (YAC) is composed of driven and enthusiastic leaders from ages 13 to 19 who strive to see positive development toward youth recreation and culture throughout the Municipality of Port Hope. Read our FAQs for more information, or if you are interested in joining the Youth Action Committee, email the Recreation Program Coordinator.

Group of teens with volunteer t-shirts on
Recreation Volunteer

Looking to get involved in your community? You can volunteer at the Town Park Recreation Centre. We are always looking for extra help with special events and children’s programs. It's a fun way to give back to your community. Email the Recreation Program Coordinator for more information.

Youth Action Committee FAQs

What you need to know regarding the Youth Action Committee (YAC):

What will they plan? 

This will be up to the YAC and the Recreation Program Coordinator. It could be anything from special events, to workshops, programs and dances; all for youth. They are the voice for Youth in the community for recreation opportunities. 

When and how often do they meet?

The day that is chosen to meet will be based on the YAC's availability. When there is not a planned activity on the horizon, members will meet once a month outside of school hours. If they are approaching an activity's date, it will be decided as a group how often it will be necessary to meet in order to successfully facilitate that activity. 

Can this time be used toward my Community Service Hours?

Absolutely! Members will need to bring in the appropriate document for the Recreation Program Coordinator to sign. 

What are other added benefits? 

  • Provides a sense of pride and accomplishment. 
  • Community engagement and networking opportunities. 
  • Experience in municipal recreation planning.
  • Provides knowledge and experience to prepare youth for the workforce.
  • Looks good on a resume or post-secondary application.
  • May spark a passion for a future career path.

Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines

It is proven that being active helps youth:

  • Improve self-confidence
  • Do better in school
  • Learn new skills
  • Feel happier
Physical activity recommendations for youth 12 to 17 years

It is recommend by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology that youth should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. This should include vigorous-intensity activities at least 3 days per week. Moderate-intensity activities include bike riding and skating. Vigorous-intensity activities include running and rollerblading.

It is also beneficial to include activities that strengthen muscle and bone at least 3 days per week. 

Youth Friendly Community

Youth Friendly logo - Platinum Level

The Youth Friendly Communities recognition award is a program of Play Works, an Ontario partnership for youth. The program outlines criteria for communities to support engaged youth and highlights the investments the community makes to youth play. Promising practices for youth engagement are highlighted and celebrated. The award recognition is a community collaboration and involves youth to complete the submission. The Municipality has been recognized as a Platinum Youth Friendly Community since 2008.

 What is a Youth Friendly Community?

A Youth Friendly Community encourages play for youth in their community. Play is any non-school activity that has elements of choice, leads to satisfaction, and encourages progressive learning and enjoyment. Activities can include - but are not limited to recreation, sport, leisure, arts, drama, dance, civic engagement, youth activism, volunteerism, social clubs and youth leadership.

The Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture recognizes and appreciates the many community partners it works with to create opportunities for youth play.