Port Colborne is bringing back a heart-warming tradition of free family-friendly entertainment with its Ultimate Family Night at Vale series, presented in partnership with the YMCA of Niagara. Running once a month from October to April, these evenings at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre offer skating, swimming and a feature film — all designed to foster connection and fun for residents of all ages.

Starting each evening with doors opening at 5:30 p.m., families are invited to settle in for a movie showing in the gym at 6:00 p.m., followed by free skating and swimming. Skating takes place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., while the pool is open for a free swim from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. Participation in any or all activities is offered at no cost, though attendees are kindly asked to bring a non-perishable food donation for Port Cares, supporting those in need within the community.

Each month’s event features a different film that appeals to audiences both young and old. The curated line-up for the 2025-26 season includes:

• • Saturday, October 25 – Monsters Inc.
  • Saturday, November 22 – Matilda
  • Saturday, December 27 – The Grinch
  • Saturday, January 17 – The Lego Movie
  • Saturday, February 28 –  Super Mario Bros
  • Saturday, March 21 – Wall-E
  • Saturday, April 25 – Wicked

Organisers emphasise that these nights are more than just entertainment — they are a way for families to engage with one another and with the wider community in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Greg Zwiep, Port Colborne’s Manager of Recreation and Tourism, notes that the initiative highlights all that the Vale Health & Wellness Centre has to offer as a vibrant community hub.

The Vale Health & Wellness Centre itself boasts modern facilities including skating rinks, pools, gymnasium space and fitness areas, all supported through the City’s ongoing partnership with the YMCA of Niagara.

Whether you’re lacing up your skates, diving into the pool, or settling in with popcorn for a movie, the Ultimate Family Night series invites Port Colborne families to make the most of winter evenings together — all while giving back to the community.