Here’s when to sign up for swimming lessons, activities in Ottawa

Starting today, residents can visit the City of Ottawa website to browse summer activities offered for all ages, across urban and rural facilities in the nation’s capital. 

“Enjoy a wide range of recreational and cultural activities at the City’s museums, recreation complexes and parks in English or French,” wrote the city in a press release.

“With indoor and outdoor features like art studios, gymnasiums, rinks, tennis and basketball courts, pools and splash pads, there’s an activity and a space for everyone to be active this summer.”

Additionally, the city is offering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs, as well as specialized arts programs delivered by professional instructors at the Nepean Visual Arts Centre, Nepean Creative Arts Centre or Shenkman Arts Centre.

Residents should mark their calendars and sign up before programs are filled, said the City of Ottawa in a press release.

Summer 2024 registration dates are as follows:

• Tuesday, May 14th, 9 p.m.: Registration opens for swimming lessons and swimming activities.
• Thursday, May 16th, 9 p.m.: Registration for all other recreational, cultural and virtual activities, as well as orientation sessions for the Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass. 

The Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass gives youth ages 13 to 17 free access to weight and cardio rooms at select recreation facilities from July 2 to August 31.

Orientation sessions are set to take place between June 3 and June 28 – for youth to learn more about the program and obtain their workout pass.

The city is recommending residents prepare ahead of registration night by:

• Creating an account on register.ottawa.ca or logging into their existing account.
• Confirming their account details are up to date, including family members and credit card information.
• Making a wish list with preferred activities, in case their first choice is full.

Virtual programs are offered for those who are unable to attend in-person.

For registration tips, visit How to use register.ottawa.ca tutorial video and/or How to use register.ottawa.ca instructions.