The long weekend is (almost) upon us and I am already planning what to do with the extra hours of spare time that have been granted to me via statutory holidays.  I've always been a bit of a stat holiday lover (are there non-stat holiday lovers?) and proud Canadian due to the fact that we have almost one per month (June is a bit of a miss but...) from January through October:)  If you are in Newmarket for the weekend -there are so many cool things to do.  I've listed a few of my favourites below for those of you looking for something to fill your extra day (or night) with.

1.  Crypto Escape Room:  This escape room started as a bit of a pilot project in some open space in Newmarket's downtown a few years ago.  It has now moved to a permanent location at 1220 Stellar Drive.  The owners actually make some of their props at Newmarket's makerspace "NewMakeIt" which is pretty cool. You need 4-8 people to play and can even book online so you don't have to wait in line when you get there! 

2. Bullseye Axe Throwing: This was my first Axe throwing experience. I'll be honest, I was skeptical that it would be worth all the hype.  I have to tell you though - I had a blast. We were there for a birthday party with a group of couples.  The staff were VERY enthusiastic about Axe Throwing which really worked to get people into the fun.  The staff teach you how to throw to get it to actually stick AND you are allowed to bring your own refreshments.  I'd totally recommend this for a Thursday or Friday night of a long weekend. 

3. Of Rock and Chalk: If you are looking to burn off a little energy thanks to the extra snacks that accompany all stat holidays or you have munchkins that need to do the same- think about Of Rock and Chalk. I like it especially for their bouldering but the rock climbing is decent too.  I also like that even if you don't have a partner, you can use their auto-belay system and climb on your own.

4.  The Sociable Pub: Newmarket has a surprising amount of live music happening at local restaurants.  I had no idea, until I started asking around, that there are so many places to stop by and listen to great music.  I chose to highlight the Sociable Pub because they have music scheduled every Friday and Saturday night (this weekend is Boyer & Skarjak and The Hill).  Lots of other places offer live music as well (Market Brewery, Grey Goat, Olde Village Freehouse and more).  

Get out there and explore!

(Note: some places might be closed on the actual stat, so I suggest using the stat as the sleep in, watch movies, don't get dressed day and Thursday night or Saturday as your adventure day).