City spray pads make a splash as they reopen for the season

Get ready to make a splash. The City of Mississauga is getting ready to open all 32 of its spray pads on Friday, May 17. The wading pool at Celebration Square will open on Friday, May 24.

Spray pads

Spray pads offer a unique mix of fun, safety and convenience that makes them a great summer activity, a refreshing escape from the heat and a fun way to cool off in the summer. They are free to use, making them an affordable and fun option for families. Unlike pools, spray pads have no standing water, making them a safe option for children of all ages, including those who don’t know how to swim.

Amenities likes spray pads in parks offer important benefits to neighbourhoods and residents including:

• Serving as a gathering spot where people can socialize
• Encouraging physical activity
• Offering an accessible space for all
• Playing a vital role in fostering a healthy urban environment

Locations and hours of operation

Mississauga features several spray pads across many neighbourboods at local parks.

Families can enjoy the spray pads through to September, weather permitting. Spray pads open daily at 9 a.m. and are unsupervised, so plan your day accordingly and use the online map to find a spray pad near you.

Visiting Celebration Square? The wading pool is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Labour Day, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. after Labour Day (times adjusted as per daylight hours).

Spray pads are the ultimate place to play and cool down

City spray pads feature interactive elements like water jets, sprinklers, sprayers, water dumping buckets, theme spray parks and fountains. These elements encourage imaginative play and fun.

Spray pads are typically designed to be accessible to children of all abilities, including those with mobility challenges. This inclusivity ensures that every child has the chance to enjoy the fun. Visiting a spray pad gives children the opportunity to interact with others, helping them develop social skills in a playful setting.

Getting to the spray pad

Spray pads are often situated near playgrounds and parks, ensuring they are readily accessible whether you’re walking, cycling or using public transit like MiWay. For those opting to drive, it’s advisable to search for nearby parking lots. Ensure that you are parking in designated areas, and steer clear of parking next to fire hydrants and in bike lanes.

Ready to make a splash at a spray pad? Here are a few friendly reminders

While the heat and sunshine may feel great, it’s important to stay hydrated, apply sun protection, wear light clothing and sanitize your hands. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before heading to a spray pad. A little prep can go a long way in making sure your spray-pad day is as fun and fuss-free as possible.

Suit up before heading out

Save yourself some time and get the kids dressed in their swim gear ahead of time. Lather on the sunscreen and don’t forget the essentials – sunscreen, swim diapers, water shoes, sun hat, towels, sunglasses and a plastic bag for the wet stuff.

Once the kids are in their swimming clothes, you can always put their regular clothes on top. If you can, consider purchasing a long-sleeved sun shirt or rash guards for enhanced sun protection. Bring water shoes or sandals and avoid footwear that gets slick when wet to avoid slips and falls.

Pack towels and an extra set of clothes

It never hurts to pack a little more – including socks, underwear, shoes and an extra towel just in case.

Bring some water toys

Nothing makes the spray pad more fun than water toys. Choose items that are simple and suitable for playing in the water – ones you’re okay with other children using or ones you won’t be upset about losing.

Consider making your own water toys with plastic food containers or spray bottles – they can be recycled afterwards.

Drinks and snacks

When its hot outside, kids can get tired, thirsty and hungry quickly. Consider packing snacks in reusable containers and water in reusable bottles.

Consider where to dry off

When it’s time to head out, drying off and changing back into regular clothes is best done in the car or at a City washroom.

Before you leave the spray pad

Remember to look around to see if you have left anything behind – towels, clothes and toys. Make sure that any garbage or recycling you have is thrown out. Please do not leave a mess behind.

Learn more

To find a spray pad in your neighbourhood, visit mississauga.ca/parks. For updates on any service disruptions at City’s spray pads, call 311 or follow @saugaparksrec on X for updates.

Tags

• Parks and Forestry
• Things to Do