Take a Walk through History and Experience New Activities and Events at Black Creek Pioneer Village

-GTA's Premier Living History Museum opens for the 2012 Season on May 1 with new activities and events that will bring the past back to life-

TORONTO, April 30, 2012 /CNW/ - Black Creek Pioneer Village, Toronto's largest outdoor history experience, officially opens for the 2012 Season on May 1. New activities and special events at the Village will educate, entertain and inspire visitors to walk "through history" and immerse themselves in a completely interactive way of learning about Toronto's pioneering roots.

"Black Creek Pioneer Village is a living history lesson, where visitors rediscover what life was like the 19^th century was like by exploring heritage buildings, surrounding gardens and farmyards and chatting to historical interpreters and trades people in authentic period dress," said Chris Bagley, General Manager, Black Creek Pioneer Village. "The new activities and events this year are reflective of a time when activities from playing games to doing chores together, helped to create stronger social bonds. It reminds us to put away our cell phones and laptops and just spend some quality time with our friends and families. Bringing the past to life and making these kinds of connections can bring more appreciation for the present and a better perspective for the future."

New activities scheduled for this year include: spending the day as a Blacksmith, Tinsmith, Printer, or Harness Maker Apprentice (pre-registration required); playing cricket with the Village Team (July 15 & 22); a masquerade ball (August 12 & 19); bread  making workshop (winter 2013); special tours for kids and their families; a pioneer shopping workshop (spring and fall); participating in pioneer chores such as making candles to teasing wool (summer); visit travelling actors and take lessons in stagecraft; learn the latest dances and hear songs of the 1860s (summer) and a new craft corner in the Hands on History Centre where kids can make a pioneer craft to take home (summer).

New events for this year include: Once Upon a Time (May 19-21), three days of fairytale fun with interactive storytelling, princess lessons, games, crafts and more; Quilts at the Creek (July 28-29)Come and see the Village as you've never seen it before - covered in handmade quilts! Learn how quilts are made and participate in fun quilting activities for the whole family. Don't miss the outdoor quilter's marketplace and Photography Days (September 8- 9)Calling all photographers! Grab your camera and step back in time. Learn about capturing that perfect photo or discover photography as it was in the 1800s.

For a full listing and schedule of 2012 activities and special events, please visit http://www.blackcreek.ca

About Black Creek Pioneer Village

Black Creek Pioneer Village is unique in Toronto: a place where visitors can step into another time and experience life as it was in early Ontario. Spanning more than 30 acres of pristine country landscapes, the Village is a living history experience featuring heritage buildings originating in communities across south central Ontario. These have been faithfully furnished with original furniture and artifacts to re-create a rural 1860s Ontario community. The Villageis owned and operated by Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA). Funding for Black Creek comes from the TRCA's provincial and municipal partners, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the City of Toronto, admissions and sales, and through donations to The Living City Foundation. For more information, visit www.blackcreek.ca

Rowena Calpito
Supervisor, Media Management
Black Creek Pioneer Village
T: 416-661-6600 ext. 5632
E: [email protected]