Starting today, February 14, 2025, the City of Wrenford is accepting applications for short-term park permits for Valentine's Day romantic picnics. You can reserve a quiet spot at Riverside Flats Park, Benchlands Lookout Park, or Centennial Gardens to celebrate the holiday with a loved one.
Valentine's Day falls on a Friday this year, and the Parks & Trails team expects high demand for the city's most scenic greenspaces. Permits allow groups of up to 20 people to bring a blanket, a small cooler, and light decorations. The permit covers the use of a designated area from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025. Applicants must choose a single site, as permits cannot be transferred between locations.
Under the Noise By-law 2016-122 and the Clean Yards By-law 2019-113, all decorations must be removed the same evening, and no glass containers or amplified sound are permitted. Residents are asked to bring their own waste bags and pack out everything they bring in. The city will provide extra trash receptacles at the main entrances of each park.
"Valentine's Day is a wonderful excuse to get outside and enjoy the winter scenery with a loved one," says Fiona Gallagher, General Manager of Community Services. "We have set aside these special picnic zones to keep the experience safe and respectful for all park users."
To apply, visit the Book a park shelter or picnic site page and select the Valentine's Day Picnic Permit category. The application fee is $45.00, payable online with a credit card or at the Service Wrenford counter at Wrenford City Hall. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the quota for each park is reached.
For a full list of park rules, seasonal operating hours, and permit guidelines, visit the Learn about park bylaws and rules page or call 519-555-0100.