Contacts
Community Services | Recreation Guide
Your Guide to Active Community Living.
programs • classes • workshops • events
Summer 2023 
View/Download the summer guide pdf
- Delivered to Pickering homes inside the News Advertiser May 11.
- Limited paper copies will be available for pick-up in City Facilities after May 11,
View Program Listings and Register online at pickering.ca/active
- Summer Programs will be viewable online in Activenet starting May 8.
- Summer camp registration is open and ongoing with limited spaces available.
- Registration for Aquatics programs begins May 30 for Pickering residents.
- Registration for Fitness and Leisure begins June 1 for Pickering residents.
- Registration for non-residents begins June 13.
For complete registration details, information, and policies visit pickering.ca/registration.
Aquatics
pickering.ca/aquatics
Pickering is home to 2 indoor pools:
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex
1867 Valley Farm Road | 905.683.6582
Dunbarton Indoor Pool
655 Sheppard Avenue East | 905.831.1260
Swimming Lessons
The City of Pickering offers the Lifesaving Society Learn to Swim Programs. Swim for Life focuses on the development of fundamental swim strokes and skills for learners of all ages and abilities as well as valuable Water Smart® education that provides information, experiences, and key messages to help everyone make safe choices when in, on, and around water.
Learn to Swim Class Options |
Group Lessons These lessons offer a high quality and social learn to swim experience in small group settings. Classes are 30 - 45 minutes in duration. Girls Only Group Lessons These classes are for females only. All Girls Only/Female Only programs take place at Dunbarton Indoor Pool. Semi Private Lessons Semi Private classes guarantee a maximum of 3 participants per class, are 1/2 hour in duration. These low ratio classes are offered at both pools. Learners of all ages and all swim levels may take advantage of Semi Private instruction. Private Lessons Private lessons are a great alternative to group or semi-private lessons. Private classes guarantee a maximum of 1 participant per class, are 1/2 hour in duration. All Lifesaving Society programs are offered as well as Adult and Youth swim levels. |
Our Swim for Life Summer Session allows you to choose classes every day for 1 week, or classes once a week for the whole summer.
View ALL aquatics program listings
Swim For Life - Learn to Swim Programs
Parent & Tot Program 4 mos - 3 yrs |
The parent & tot programs provide an opportunity for parents and children to enjoy structured in-water interaction in a fun and social setting. Focusing on the importance of play and developing water positive attitudes and skills, children gain valuable exposure to being in and around the water. Parents will learn to be Water Smart to keep themselves and their child safe in any aquatic setting. Activities and progressions in Parent & Tot are based on developmental stages. Register in the level appropriate for your child’s age.
View class listings |
Preschool Program 3 - 5 yrs |
The preschool programs provide children with an early start in learning to swim. Children 3-5 years old will have fun while gaining foundational water skills and become comfortable in the water. Water Smart education is incorporated into all Preschool levels to support children in learning how to keep themselves safe in and around the water.
View class listings |
Swimmer Program 6 - 12 yrs |
This is a 6-level learn to swim program for children 6-12 years old. There is a prominent focus on in-water swimming practice as swimmers learn fundamental strokes and skills, mastering them as they progress through the program. Swimmers also learn how to be safe in, on, and around the water through Water Smart education incorporated into every level.
View class listings |
Canadian Swim Patrol 6 - 13 yrs |
The Lifesaving Society’s 3 level Canadian Swim Patrol program is for swimmers who are ready to focus on developing strength and proficiency while introducing the challenging world of lifesaving. Swimmers will have fun enhancing their capability in the water, increasing their physical conditioning, and learning lifesaving judgment. Each level will continue to develop swimmers’ strokes and provide a skill foundation that will prepare them for success in the Society’s Bronze Medal Awards. Each level of the Canadian Swim Patrol program has three modules: Water Proficiency, First Aid, and Recognition and Rescue.
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Youth Programs 14 - 17 yrs
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Teen 1, 2, & 3 Youth Fitness Swimmer |
Adult Swimmer 16+ |
Beginners just starting out or swimmers looking to improve their strokes will find that the new Adult Swimmer program will help them achieve their swimming goals. Swimmers will work to gain confidence in the water, develop smooth recognizable strokes, and improve their water fitness. Water Smart education is incorporated into all levels to support the Lifesaving Society’s mandate of drowning prevention.
View class listings |
Swimming Lessons - General Information Q&A's |
Your child will progress along the learning continuum at their own rate, and it may take more than one session to complete each level. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s lessons, please do not hesitate to talk to the on-deck supervisor immediately. We appreciate your feedback and can usually solve your concerns as soon as we know about them. When registering Please ensure that you read the course description and prerequisites before enrolling. If you are still unsure of the appropriate level we can arrange for an assessment by one of our aquatic staff. No refunds are issued for enrolling in the incorrect level or a level that was not recommended. What to bring Just a swimsuit and a towel. Some people like to wear goggles, but they are not necessary. All children who are not toilet trained are required to wear a plasticized bathing suit or plastic pants over their bathing suit - no disposable diapers. Can I make up lessons? Plan your schedule carefully. There are no make up lessons or credits for missed classes. If we need to cancel a class due to inclement weather, pool fouling, etc., we will do our best to reschedule it at the end. If we cannot reschedule the class you will be credited for the missed lesson. Can I watch my child during lessons or can I leave? Experience has shown us that your child is better able to concentrate on lessons without additional on deck distractions. Viewing is available in the area upstairs at the Recreation Complex or the foyer at Dunbarton Pool.
Swim Evaluations If your child is returning to swim lessons but you are not sure what level to register them for you can stop by during public swim times to get an evaluation. Evaluations are free and are approximately 15 minutes in length. All pool admission policies apply. See the Aquatics Page for public swim times and information. |
Aquatic Leadership Programs |
The path to an exciting and rewarding career in Aquatics starts here! The following courses are offered...
View class listings |
Aquafit Programs |
Participants must be 15+ Take advantage of the unique benefits of water exercise to create a low impact program that appeals to a wide variety of abilities. Classes are offered at both CHD Rec Complex and Dunbarton Indoor pool. View class listings |
Aquatic Clubs & Links |
Recreation Programs

Search and register for programs by activity, age group, interest, or activity code.
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Preschool Programs 0 - 6 yrs
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Teen Programs 13 - 19 yrs
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Adult Programs 16+
Our programs are intended to promote physical, mental, and social health through recreational experiences for all ages and abilities.
Camps
pickering.ca/camps 
The City offers camp opportunities for children throughout the year including PA Days, Winter Holidays, March Break and Summer. Upcoming camps and information can be found on the City's Camps page.
Upcoming Camps: | |
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Summer Camps |
July 4 - September 1 |
View Camps Program listings
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex
pickering.ca/fit 
1867 Valley Farm Road, Pickering | 905.683.6582
Hours:
Monday to Friday | 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday | 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
See the Recreation Complex webpage for complete details.
Membership |
CHD Recreation Complex offers both Seasonal and Annual Memberships. Complete Membership options and information can be found on our webpage. Seasonal Membership Specials:Student Summer Membership This membership is geared towards college or university students and includes fitness classes, cardio & weight rooms, the pool during public swim times, and members change rooms. Includes unlimited group ftness classes, cardio room, weight room, racquetball & squash, and pool during public swim times.
Prices listed above are subject to applicable tax
View CHDRC Memberships |
Health Club |
Available use through membership or pay-as-you go.
See the Recreation Complex webpage for complete details. |
Group Fitness Classes |
7 days a week • 3 dedicated fitness studios • Fit For Everyone Classes are available through membership, as a registered program, or pay-as-you-go basis.
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Registered Fitness Programs and Small Group Personal Training |
Registered Group Fitness Programs
Small Group Personal Training Programs for Adults and Adults 55+
View Registered Fitness/Training Program listings |
Personalized Training Services |
All of our trainers are CSEP Certified Personal Trainers who work with individuals to meet their healthy lifestyle goals using an evidence informed approach acquired through post secondary education.
View Personal Training optionsFor more information contact the Fitness Office, 905.683.6582 ext 3247. |
Swimming Pool |
Public Swim is offered at both CHD Recreation Complex and Dunbarton Indoor Pools. See the Aquatics Page for details and schedules. |
Courts: Squash, Racquetball, Tennis |
Available use through membership or pay-as-you go. Members can book a court online at prc.gametime.net or by phone at 905.831.1730.
Visit Racquet Sports at pickering.ca/fit for complete details |
Squash Lessons & Services |
Squash Pro: Nicole Pirko Lessons
Squash Lesson details are in the guide and online at pickering.ca/fit - Squash page Services
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Tennis Lessons |
Tennis Pro: Dave Ochotta Lessons
Tennis Lesson details are in the guide online at pickering.ca/fit - Tennis page Services
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City Services
Accessibility |
We are committed to meeting the needs of our growing community and providing accessible programs, services and resources to all of our residents. |
City of Pickering Mayor and Council |
Mayor and Members of Council are responsible for the management and administration of the City's resources. As well as attending Council and Committee meetings, some members are also active on a number of board and committee meetings. Our door is always open. Please share any comments, questions or concerns. |
Customer Care |
The Customer Care Centre provides an important link between members of the public, the Mayor, Members of Council, and City of Pickering municipal departments. Our main priority is to ensure that you, "the customer" receive prompt attention and service regarding any municipal concerns you may have. Visit us online to see how you can Connect with Your City |
Farmers Market |
June 13 to October 3 Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm Join us weekly at the market! Find us in the North West parking lot at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex. |
Pickering Blooms |
Garden of Distinction Contest Each summer we recognize beautiful gardens around Pickering. Join like minded residents and enter to win fantastic prizes! |
Waterfront Parking |
Waterfront paid/permit parking is in effect annually, from May 1st to October 1st. After concluding the first year of its Waterfront Parking Permit Program, residents, businesses, and visitors were invited to participate in an end-of-season review. Public input and lessons learned helped shape recommendations for improvements for the 2023 program. Pickering residents are able to obtain a waterfront parking permit free of charge – registration is now available. pickering.ca/waterfrontparking |
Recreation Services
Arenas and Public Skating |
Pickering is home to 2 Indoor Ice Arenas: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex and Don Beer Arena.
pickering.ca/skate |
Pools and Public Swimming |
see pickering.ca/aquatics |
Mobile Skate Park |
See the trailer and stop by for a skate! Tuesdays & Saturdays at Claremont CC Must be 7+ with parental signed waiver to participate. Full details on our webpage. |
Pre-teen Dances exclusively for grades 5 - 8 |
Complete details and ticket information on our webpage. Last dance of the school year is Friday, June 23 |
Free Teen Stuff for Pickering Teens 13 - 19 yrs |
Free programs, activities, events, and more Membership is required (it’s free) and you can get it at any Free Teen Program. Parent verification will be required on your first visit. See website for details, schedules, and upcoming events. pickering.ca/teen905.420.6588 | freeteenstuff@pickering.ca | |
Aging Well Adults 55+ |
The City offers a variety of free or low cost recreational opportunities for our older adult community. Seniors’ Centre Without Walls (free phone in programs) Connect with others and enjoy some social fun from the comfort and safety of home. These weekly sessions are phone in programs, so a computer and/or internet are not required. Just call in from your landline and enjoy! Spotlight Series Seminars (free local guest speakers) Free, interactive, information sessions, held monthly, hosted by experts in their field, various hot topics, including but not limited to Mental Health, Elder Abuse, Financial Planning, Power of Attorney, Community Safety and more!
Exclusive 55+ Events June is Seniors' Month - watch our website for special activities all month long.
pickering.ca/adults55plus905.420.6588 | email: communityservices@pickering.ca
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Culture Services
Pickering Events |
Upcoming EventsCanada Day | July 1 | pickering.ca/canadaday Summer Concerts | July & August | pickering.ca/events Pickering Food Truck Festival | August 11-13 | pickeringfoodtruckfestival.com Driftwood Theatre | August 17 & 18 | pickering.ca/events pickering.ca/events |
Pickering Culture |
Heritage & History | Public Art & Placemaking | Tourism Creating a vibrant community; Discover Pickering's vision for arts, culture and heritage.
pickering.ca/culture |
Pickering Museum Village |
Nestled on the banks of Duffins Creek, Pickering Museum Village is the largest open air museum in Durham Region. It consists of 19 heritage buildings, gardens, and orchards. Pickering Museum Village is a community hub where people come together to learn, share stories, and build relationships through progressive, fun, and vibrant experiences. Family Favourites being offered this summer:
All Around Fun for everyone:
Registration for our programs must be done in advance. Visit the museum website to see what's happening and plan your visit. pickeringmuseumvillage.ca905.683.8401 | 2365 6th Concession Road, Greenwood, ON L0H 1H0 |
Pickering Public Library
Pickering Public Library |
TD Summer Reading Club
Canada’s biggest, bilingual summer reading program for kids of all ages returns to Pickering Public Library. Join us for our Summer Reading Club Kick-Off Party on Saturday, July 8th from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm in Esplanade Park, behind Central Library. The 5-Minute Film Festival is back!Filmmakers of all ages are invited to create and submit their own short 5-minute films. Workshops and events are planned throughout the summer, and a closing gala will take place on Saturday, September 25th, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Please visit www.5mff.ca for more details on how you can participate. |
Community Advertisers
Royal City Soccer |
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Next Edition: Fall 2023
Will be online and in facilities for pick up early in August.
note: Masks are no longer required to be worn in City facilities, however may be worn as a personal choice by patrons and staff.