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Centennial Park (Toronto) facts for kids

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Centennial Park
Centennial Park (Toronto).jpg
Centennial Park ski hill during the summer.
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Type Public Park
Location Etobicoke, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Area 525.2 acres (212.5 ha)
Created 1967 (1967)
Operated by Toronto Parks

Centennial Park is a huge public park in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It has lots of sports areas and fun things to do. The city's Parks, Forestry and Recreation Division takes care of it.

History of Centennial Park

When was Centennial Park created?

Centennial Park first opened in 1967. This was a special year because it was Canada's 100th birthday! The park was built on land that used to be part of the Hirons' dairy farm.

What major events happened at Centennial Park?

Centennial Park has hosted some big events over the years:

  • In 1976, the park was one of the places where the 1976 Summer Paralympics were held. This is a huge sports event for athletes with disabilities.
  • In 2015, the park was chosen to host the BMX cycling races for the 2015 Pan American Games. After the games, the special BMX track stayed open for everyone to use. It's now a cool place for public cycling.

How did Centennial Park become part of Toronto?

In 1998, several smaller cities around Toronto joined together to become one big city. Before this, Centennial Park was managed by the city of Etobicoke. After the big change, it became part of the larger Toronto Parks system. There's another small park called Centennial Park in Scarborough, but it's a different place!

What can you do at Centennial Park?

Centennial Park is packed with awesome features for sports and recreation. It's a great place to visit with friends and family!

Sports and Recreation Facilities

  • Etobicoke Olympium: This is a large sports center built in 1975. It has pools and other facilities for athletes.
  • Centennial Park Ski & Snowboard Centre: You can ski and snowboard right here in Toronto! This small hill was made on top of an old landfill. It has slopes for beginners and more experienced riders.
  • Centennial Park Stadium: This stadium can hold 3,500 people. It's used for track and field, soccer, and sometimes a sport called kabaddi.
  • Centennial Park Arena: This arena has two ice rinks, perfect for hockey or ice skating.
  • BMX Centre: After the Pan Am Games, the special BMX track became open for everyone to enjoy.
  • Golf Course: The park has a large golf course, covering about 120 acres.
  • Sports Fields: You'll find seven soccer fields, one baseball diamond, and five softball diamonds. There are also two cricket pitches.
  • Track and Field: There's an 8-lane track for running and other track and field sports.
  • Disc Golf Course: Try out disc golf, a fun game similar to regular golf but played with frisbees.
  • Go-Cart Track: If you like racing, there's a go-cart track for some speedy fun.

Other Fun Features

  • Centennial Park Conservatory: This is a beautiful greenhouse filled with plants.
  • Picnic Areas: Lots of spots to have a picnic with your family and friends.
  • Designated Toboggan Hill: In winter, this is the perfect spot for sledding.
  • Splash Pad: A great place to cool off and play in the water during summer.
  • Playground Equipment: Fun structures for younger kids to climb and play on.
  • Flying Circles: Open spaces for flying kites or throwing frisbees.
  • Exercise Course: A special course with equipment for outdoor workouts.
  • Natural Areas: The park also has 7 acres of marshland and wetlands, plus an 11-acre man-made pond. These areas are home to local wildlife.

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