Lambton Family HubThings to Do in Forest with Kids
Forest is a small town with a big streak of local pride — a Grand Trunk railway heritage, a Friday farmers' market on King Street, one of the oldest movie theatres in the country, and a splash pad right downtown. Here's where to take the kids, with a link and directions for every spot.
Upcoming events in and near Forest
Family events, activities, and programs happening soon. Updated through the week.
Browse events →Places to go in and around Forest
Tap any spot for its official page or directions. The splash pads and the library are free; the parks charge a small day-use fee.
Right in Forest
Lambton County Library — Forest Branch
A local landmark: the branch is a faithful replica of Forest's old Grand Trunk Railway station, rebuilt in 1985 from the original drawings. Inside, free story times, summer reading clubs, and kids' programs all year.
Forest Splash Pad
A free splash pad in the heart of Forest with a playground right beside it — the go-to on a hot afternoon.
Forest Farmers & Artisan Market
Local farms, maple syrup and honey, fresh baking, and crafters right downtown — an easy Friday-morning outing with the kids.
Kiwanis Kineto Theatre
One of the oldest continuously running cinemas anywhere — family movies most weekends plus a Sunday matinee. A real Forest gem.
Worth the short drive
Rock Glen Conservation Area
A waterfall, fossil-hunting along the riverbank, trails, and the Arkona Lions Museum — a favourite family nature day.
Arkona Splash Pad
A shaded splash pad beside the Arkona Community Centre — an easy pairing with a Rock Glen visit.
Grand Bend & the Pinery
Headed to the lake? Grand Bend's main beach and Pinery Provincial Park are a short drive west — beaches, trails, and the boardwalk.
Forest is one of the communities of the Municipality of Lambton Shores — along with Grand Bend, Arkona, Thedford, Port Franks and Ipperwash. It's about 40 minutes north of Sarnia, and home to the Inspire Youth Program, which runs free community events and the beloved Big Squeeze lemonade competition each summer.