Programs, Camps, and Birthday Parties
Public Programs
Markham Museum offers a unique family and educational experience featuring over 20 historic buildings on 25 acres of parkland. Highlighting technologies such as pottery, metal working, and textiles, our many high-quality, affordable programs and camps focus on the ongoing growth of the region.
Markham Museum Family Membership holders may qualify for a 10% discount on Museum Day Camps. Find out how to get your membership today!
Fall 2026: Children's Pottery Classes
- Museum Pottery: 5 Week Hand-building for Children
Let your child’s imagination run wild in this 5-week hand-building course, where they will be taught various techniques such as pinching, coil building, slab building, and many more! There will be weekly projects where they will get to craft decorative as well as functional wares they could use and enjoy for many years to come!
No experience required
- Includes clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
Age: 7 to 12
Cost: $220.00 (Resident Rate)
Fall 2026: Children's Pottery Workshops
- Museum Pottery: P.A. Day Full day Hand-building Pottery Camp
Spend your P.A. Day at the Markham Museum Pottery Studio. Our young artists will learn how to create their very own imaginative project. Participants will learn the basic techniques of coiling, pinching and slab building as well as decorating and painting their one-of-a-kind clay masterpiece. A must-have experience for every creative child!
No experience required
Includes clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
Age: 7 to 13
Cost: $98.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Monday October 26, 2026
Time: 9 AM to 4 PM
Course ID: 356853
Course 2 Date: Friday November 20, 2026
Time: 9 AM to 4 PM
Course ID: 356855
Fall 2026: Pre-teen & Teen Pottery Classes
- Museum Pottery: 10 week Pre-teens and Teens Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This extensive 10 week course will help you to build a foundation of skills required to successfully create your very own ceramic vessels. By the end of the course, we would have explored forms such as cups, bowls, vases, and handled mugs!
No experience required.
Includes up to 10 kg of clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
Age: 10 to 17
Cost: $550.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Thursdays – October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12, 19, 26,
December 3, 10, 17, 2026Time: 5:30 to 7:30 PM
Course ID: 356856
- Museum Pottery: 5 week Pre-teens and Teens Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This 5-week course will help you to build a foundation of skills required to successfully create your very own ceramic vessels. By the end of the course, we would have explored forms such as cups, bowls, vases, and handled mugs!
- No experience required
Includes up to 5 kg of clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
Age: 10 to 17
Cost: $275.00 (Resident Rate)
Fall 2026: Adult Pottery Classes
- Museum Pottery: 10 Week Adult Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This 10-week course is open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced potters looking to expand and refine their techniques. Beginners will build a strong foundation in the fundamentals of wheel throwing, including centering clay, pulling walls, shaping forms, trimming, and glazing finished pieces. Returning students will have the opportunity to develop more advanced forms, improve their technique, and explore new challenges with guidance from the instructor. By the end of the course, you'll have created a variety of functional and decorative ceramic pieces while building confidence and creativity at the wheel.
All potter's wheels (every brand) are potentially harmful to pacemakers. Consult a physician before use.
- Includes up to 10 kg of clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $630.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Wednesdays - October 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18, 25, December 2, 9, 16, 2026
Time: 6 PM to 9 PM
Course ID: 356144
- Museum Pottery: 5 Week Adult Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This shorter 5-week course will help you to build a foundation of skills required to successfully create your very own ceramic vessels. By the end of the course, we would have explored forms such as tumblers, bowls, and vases!
All potter's wheels (every brand) are potentially harmful to pacemakers. Consult a physician before use.
- No experience required!
- Includes up to 5 kg of clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
Cost: $315.00 (Resident Rate)
- Museum Pottery: 4 Week Adult Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This shorter 4-week course will help you to build a foundation of skills required to successfully create your very own ceramic vessels. By the end of the course, we would have explored forms such as tumblers, bowls, and vases!
All potter's wheels (every brand) are potentially harmful to pacemakers. Consult a physician before use.
- No experience required!
- Includes up to 4 kg of clay, firing, glazes, and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $252.00 (Resident Rate)
- Museum Pottery: 8 Week Adult Wheel Throwing Course
Learn how to throw on the pottery wheel! This 8-week course is open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced potters looking to expand and refine their techniques. Beginners will build a strong foundation in the fundamentals of wheel throwing, including centering clay, pulling walls, shaping forms, trimming, and glazing finished pieces. Returning students will have the opportunity to develop more advanced forms, improve their technique, and explore new challenges with guidance from the instructor. By the end of the course, you'll have created a variety of functional and decorative ceramic pieces while building confidence and creativity at the wheel.
All potter's wheels (every brand) are potentially harmful to pacemakers. Consult a physician before use.
- Includes up to 8kg of clay, firing, as well as glazes and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $504.00 (Resident Rate)
- Museum Pottery: 4 Week Hand-Building Course
Explore the versatile world of hand-building through our weekly courses at Markham Museum. Perfect for both beginners and experienced makers, each session guides you through a range of hand-building techniques, including slab building, sculpting, pinch pots, and coiling. You’ll learn to shape, texture, and assemble clay creations with personalized instruction tailored to your skill level.
- Includes up to 4 kg of clay, firing, glazes, and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $228.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Sundays - September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2026
Time: 1:30 to 4:30 PM
Course ID: 356300
- Museum Pottery: 5 Week Hand-Building Course
Explore the versatile world of hand-building through our weekly courses at Markham Museum. Perfect for both beginners and experienced makers, each session guides you through a range of hand-building techniques, including slab building, sculpting, pinch pots, and coiling. You’ll learn to shape, texture, and assemble clay creations with personalized instruction tailored to your skill level.
- Includes up to 5 kg of clay, firing, glazes, and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $285.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Mondays – October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 to 9 PM
Course ID: 356306
- Museum Pottery: 8 Week Hand-Building Course
Explore the versatile world of hand-building through our weekly courses at Markham Museum. Perfect for both beginners and experienced makers, each session guides you through a range of hand-building techniques, including slab building, sculpting, pinch pots, and coiling. You’ll learn to shape, texture, and assemble clay creations with personalized instruction tailored to your skill level.
- Includes up to 8 kg of clay, firing, glazes, and underglazes.
- Age: 18+
- Cost: $456.00 (Resident Rate)
Course 1 Date: Sundays – October 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, December 6, 2026
Time: 1:30 to 4:30 PM
Course ID: 356439
The Rebel Textile Collective: Adult Weaving Programs
Introducing Weaving Workshops by the Rebel Textile Collective. Starting in May, the Rebel Textile Collective will be offering a range of textile-focused programs and activities in our Burkholder House, a space dedicated to hands-on creative exploration.
Visit https://www.rebeltextile.ca/ for more information and to register.
*Please note that The Rebel Textile Collective is a private organization operating at the Markham Museum and is not affiliated with the City of Markham or Markham Museum. For questions regarding their programs, policies, pricing, and other information please refer to their website.
Workshops and Upcoming Classes:
- 1 Day Weaving Taster (October 4)
This 1-day weaving workshop is perfect for absolute beginners or anyone who wants to try out a 4-shaft table loom. The looms will be all set up and ready for you to get started as soon as you arrive! You'll learn the basic principles of weaving in a relaxed and supportive environment. Discover how to follow a lift plan to create a variety of different patterns and experiment with a variety colours to weave your own unique set of fabric coasters to take home. Get personalized guidance from weaver Megan Crouse of Rebel Textile. With a maximum of six participants, you'll have plenty of one-on-one time.
Date: Sunday October 4, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Beginner Basketry - Square Basket (October 17)
Learn the basic art of basketry in this workshop for beginners!
Historically, any basket with a flat bottom, either square or rectangular, has been broadly classified as a utility basket. In this course, participants will be guided step by step through each stage of the basket-making process while creating a square market basket measuring approximately 8” x 8”, using natural and hand dyed reed. You will learn various weaving techniques that will help gain the knowledge needed to continue with this craft. No previous experience needed. Led by Michelle Zikovitz, with 30 years of teaching and weaving, she shares practical tips, traditional techniques, and creative inspiration.
Date: Saturday October 17, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Scarf in a Day - Rigid Heddle Weaving (October 18)
Celebrate the changing seasons by learning the timeless art of weaving. This beginner-friendly workshop offers a small group of just 6 participants the opportunity to weave a lovely 70" x 10" plaid scarf, beautifully finished with a hemstitch. Whether you are weaving a cozy accessory for your own autumn wardrobe or hand-making a gift for someone special, this class is the perfect creative fall escape. Guided by weaver Megan Crouse of Rebel Textile, you will receive extensive one-on-one instruction. Participants will have dedicated access to a pre-dressed rigid heddle loom. No prior experience is necessary. Spaces are limited to ensure a personalized experience—reserve your loom today!
Date: Sunday October 18, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
- 1 Day Weaving Taster (October 24)
This 1-day weaving workshop is perfect for absolute beginners or anyone who wants to try out a 4-shaft table loom. The looms will be all set up and ready for you to get started as soon as you arrive! You'll learn the basic principles of weaving in a relaxed and supportive environment. Discover how to follow a lift plan to create a variety of different patterns and experiment with a variety colours to weave your own unique set of fabric coasters to take home. Get personalized guidance from weaver Megan Crouse of Rebel Textile. With a maximum of six participants, you'll have plenty of one-on-one time.
Date: Saturday October 24, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
Adult Pottery Classes
Older adults are invited to participate in our Adult Pottery classes at a reduced cost. Please visit our Adult Programs Tab to see our current class offering.
Fall 2026: Family Pottery Workshops
- Museum Pottery: Family Halloween Hand-building Workshop
Scary season for ghouls, goblins, spiders, bats and ghosts! Come spend some time with your family making a jack-o-lantern, ghostly dish or spider web plate to store Halloween candy. During this workshop we will create, decorate and paint a unique creation with our professional pottery instructor.
Price includes 500g of clay, glazes and firing. Cost for 1 child and 1 adult, additional adults or children $55.00 each to a max of 2 additional participants. Children attending must be accompanied by an adult.
Age: 4+
Cost: $62.00 (Resident Rate)
Session 1 Date: Saturday September 26, 2026
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 PM
Course ID: 356834
Session 2 Date: Saturday October 3, 2026
Time: 1 to 3 PM
Course ID: 356835
- Museum Pottery: Family Slab Building Ornament Workshop
Create up to 10 ornaments that are great for decorating for the holiday season. Keep them as a family treasure or give as holiday gifts. Use winter & holiday themed patterns, stamps and colours to create your own individual ornaments. This project is something that you can bring out year after year.
Price includes 500g of clay, glazes and firing. Please register the adult attending the workshop, the cost is for 1 child and 1 adult. Additional adults or children $55.00 each to a max of 2 additional participants. Children attending must be accompanied by an adult.
Age: 4+
Cost: $62.00 (Resident Rate)
Fall 2026: Family Pottery Classes
- Museum Pottery: Family 5 Week Introduction to Pottery
Come explore the world of clay with your child! This 5 week course is designed to give your child a taster of the many aspects of clay. Participants will get to try our different hand-building techniques such as pinching, coil-building, and slab-building.
Price includes clay, glazes and firing. Please register the adult attending the workshop, the cost is for 1 child and 1 adult. additional adults or children $275.00 each to a max of 2 additional participants. Children attending must be accompanied by an adult.
Age: 4+
Cost: $310.00 (Resident Rate)
Camps
Join us at Markham Museum for camps and activities during PA Days and the summer, winter, and March school breaks.
*Available for Family Memberships only. To qualify for a discount on summer camps, you must hold a valid membership both at the time of registration and payment, as well as during the program. If your membership is renewed or activated within 7 days of registration, we will retroactively apply the discount to the camp fee, upon request.
Spring 2027: Markham Museum March Break Camps
Markham Museum's March Break Camps are coming next spring...
Fall 2026: Markham Museum P.A. Day Camps
- Museum Pottery: P.A. Day Full day Hand-building Pottery Camp
Spend your P.A. Day at the Markham Museum Pottery Studio. Our young artists will learn how to create their very own imaginative project. Participants will learn the basic techniques of coiling, pinching and slab building as well as decorating and painting their one-of-a-kind clay masterpiece. A must-have experience for every creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
Age: 7 to 13
Cost: $98 (Resident rate)
Course 1 Date: Monday October 26, 2026
Time: 9AM to 4 PM
Course ID: 356853
Course 3 Date: Friday November 20, 2026
Time: 9 AM to 4 PM
Course ID: 356855
Markham Museum Summer Camps
Markham Museum Summer Camps is excited to partner with Kid’s Kitchen for a hot lunch program this summer!
Note: Kid’s Kitchen is available for campers registered with our full-day summer camps.
Week 6 – August 4 to August 7
- Nature Navigators Camp
Calling all nature lovers! This summer discover the great outdoors by uncovering the natural wonders that exist within the Museum's 25 acres of parkland. Throughout the week campers will learn basic orienteering skills, explore urban ecosystems and habitats on nature walks, and learn about conservation and sustainability through the creation of eco-friendly crafts.
- Ages: 4 to 8
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $356.00 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279922
- Navigators of the Wild Camp
Campers will put both their bodies and minds to the test as they explore the Museum’s 25 acres of parkland through exciting team challenges and hands-on adventures. Working together, campers will build confidence and cooperation while learning essential camping and outdoor skills. Through interactive games, hands-on experiments, and creative crafts, campers will explore the science and technology behind sustainable stewardship of our land. Campers will also develop basic orienteering skills making this immersive week perfect for curious explorers.
- Ages: 8 to 12
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $356 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279924
- Junior Science Magic Camp
Calling all scientists! Join us this week and explore the magic of science through exciting experiments, spectacular simple machines, and electrifying electronic projects! Campers will mix colourful concoctions, connect simple circuits, build rockets, and much more. Each day, campers will participate in a variety of hands-on experiments using the Scientific Method, fun outdoor activities and games on the Museum’s beautiful 25 acre grounds.
- Ages: 4 to 8
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 302954
- Half Day Pottery Camp
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
- Ages: 7 to 12
- Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
- Cost: $216 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279942
- Teen Pottery Wheel Throwing & Hand building Camp
This half day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of Pottery hand building, throwing and trimming on the potter’s wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures and unique sculptures. We will touch on ceramic art, the history of clay around the world, geology, and even the chemistry of clay. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
- Ages: 10 to 16
- Time: 1 to 4 PM
- Cost: $228 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 282377
Week 7 – August 10 to August 14
- Mini Racers
Ready, set… race! Mini Racers is an action-packed STEAM camp designed for speed lovers who are ready to zoom into a world of creativity, and hands-on building fun. During the week, campers will explore the exciting world of racing through engaging activities including energetic games, creative crafts, teamwork challenges, and by experimenting with ramps and test tracks. Perfect for kids who love cars, racing, building and high-energy play.
- Ages: 4 to 8
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279871
- Speed Science Camp
Ignite your curiosity with a high-energy STEAM adventure! At Speed Science Camp, campers will explore with hands-on experiments that reveal how force, friction, aerodynamics, and energy affect how fast things move. They’ll design and test their own creations—like mini racers, rockets, and high-speed challenges—using real scientific methods to make predictions, measure results, and improve their designs. With a mix of outdoor activities, engineering challenges, and team experimentation, this camp is perfect for curious kids who love building, testing, and pushing the limits of speed.
- Ages: 8 to 12
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279874
- Half Day Pottery Camp
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included
- Ages: 7 to 12
- Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
- Cost: $270.00 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279943
- Teen Pottery Wheel Throwing & Hand building Camp
This half day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of Pottery hand building, throwing and trimming on the potter’s wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures and unique sculptures. We will touch on ceramic art, the history of clay around the world, geology, and even the chemistry of clay. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
- Ages: 10 to 16
- Time: 1 to 4 PM
- Cost: $285 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 282384
Week 8 – August 17 to August 21
- Mini Machines
Does your child love trains, trucks, tractors and anything else that moves? Then this camp is for them! This summer, campers will learn the basic principles of physics, engineering and motion through exciting hands-on activities that celebrate and explore different modes of transportation. The fun and learning continues as they discover the amazing world of simple and complex machines through variety of hands-on learning experiences, crafts, outdoor activities and cooperative games.
- Ages: 4 to 8
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279879
- Fashion, Fabric, Fun Camp
Calling all creative kids who have a passion for fashion! This week, campers will explore our interactive Textile Studio and try their hand at basic weaving, sewing, and felting techniques. Campers will draw inspiration from the Museum's own textile and fashion collection to create their own fashion accessories. By the end of the week, these budding designers will get to show off their works at a fashion show
- .Ages: 8 to 12
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279915
- Half Day Pottery Camp
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
- Ages: 7 to 12
- Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
- Cost: $270 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279944
- Teen Pottery Wheel Throwing & Hand building Camp
This half day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of Pottery hand building, throwing and trimming on the potter’s wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures and unique sculptures. We will touch on ceramic art, the history of clay around the world, geology, and even the chemistry of clay. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
- Ages: 10 to 16
- Time: 1 to 4 PM
- Cost: $285 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 282389
Week 9 – August 24 to August 28
- Junior Science Magic Camp
Calling all scientists! Join us this week and explore the magic of science through exciting experiments, spectacular simple machines, and electrifying electronic projects! Campers will mix colourful concoctions, connect simple circuits, build rockets, and much more. Each day, campers will participate in a variety of hands-on experiments using the Scientific Method, fun outdoor activities and games on the Museum’s beautiful 25 acre grounds.
- Ages: 4 to 8
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279921
- C.S.I Camp Scene Investigation
Time to step into the shoes of a Camp Scene Investigator! There is something amiss at the Museum this summer and we need your help to figure out this mystery. Campers will learn about the science behind crime scene investigations and what it takes to be a real CSI. Campers will work together to solve cases by gathering evidence, conducting chemical analysis, looking for fingerprints, decoding riddles, and more.
- Ages: 8 to 12
- Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
- Cost: $445 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279917
- Half Day Pottery Camp
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process, and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must-have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
- Ages: 7 to 12
- Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
- Cost: $270 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 279945
- Teen Pottery Wheel Throwing & Hand Building Camp
This half-day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of Pottery hand-building, throwing, and trimming on the potter’s wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures, and unique sculptures. We will touch on ceramic art, the history of clay around the world, geology, and even the chemistry of clay. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
- Ages: 10 to 16
- Time: 1 to 4 PM
- Cost: $285 Markham Resident
- Camp Barcode: 282395
The STEAM Project Summer Camps
This summer, imagination comes to life at The STEAM Project’s camp at Markham Museum! Each day, campers explore hands-on projects that spark creativity and curiosity. From crafting and woodworking to simple electronics and engineering challenges, kids build, tinker, and problem-solve while discovering new ideas. With a 1:4 staff-to-camper ratio, every child receives guidance and support, helping them gain confidence, master new skills, and leave with creations they’re proud of. Activities are tailored to their age and abilities, ensuring a summer filled with fun, discovery, and hands-on learning. *
Ages: 4 to 10
Dates: June 29 to August 21, 2026 (Offered in consecutive 2-week sessions)
Time: 9 AM to 4 PM (Meal Plan & Extended care available)
*Please note that The STEAM Project is a private camp operating at the Markham Museum and is not affiliated with the City of Markham or Markham Museum. For questions regarding their programs, policies, pricing, and other information please refer to their website.
Markham Museum Winter Break Camps 2026
Week 1 - December 21 to 24
- Museum: Junior Science Magic Camp (Dec 21-23)
Calling all scientists! Join us this week and explore the magic of science through exciting experiments, spectacular simple machines, and electrifying electronic projects! Campers will mix colourful concoctions, connect simple circuits, build rockets, and much more. Each day, campers will participate in a variety of hands-on experiments using the Scientific Method, fun outdoor activities and games on the Museum’s beautiful 25 acre grounds.
Ages: 4 to 8
Date: December 21, 22, and 23, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
Cost: $282.00 Markham Resident
Course ID: 356874
- Museum: Half Day Pottery Camp (Dec 21-24)
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process, and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must-have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
Age: 7 to 12
Session 1
Date: December 21, 22, and 23, 2026
Time: 9:00am to 12:00pm
Cost: $171.00 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356865Session 2
Date: December 24, 2026
Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
Cost: $57.00 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356866
- Museum: Pre-teen & Teen Pottery Wheel Throwing & Hand Building Camp (Dec 22-23)
This half-day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of pottery hand-building, throwing, and trimming on the potter’s wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures, and unique sculptures. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
Age: 10 to 16
Date: December 22 and 23, 2026
Time: 1 to 4 PM
Cost: $180.60 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356868
Week 2 - December 28 to 31
- Museum: Treasure Hunting Camp (Dec 28)
Does your child love a challenge and the great outdoors? Then this camp is for them! On the Museums 25 acre grounds, campers will spend the day exploring and hunting for treasures using a variety of traditional and modern methods. They will learn basic orienteering skills, how to read and use different types of maps and compasses. Using all their new found skills campers will search for prizes hidden throughout the Museum grounds.
Age: 4 to 10
Date: December 28, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: $94.00 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356871
- Museum: Superhero Science Camp (Dec 29-31)
Campers love superheroes, so why not explore science through their powers? This camp will encourage campers to learn about real-life science and technology through the mythical powers of their favourite superheroes. Campers will also experience being part of a superhero team and learn the benefits of helping in the community. On Thursday, there is a themed dress-up day – all heroes unite!
Age: 4 to 10
Date: December 29, 30, and 31, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM to 5 PM – Extended Care Included
Cost: $282.00 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356876
- Museum: Half Day Pottery Camp (Dec 29-31)
Come and enjoy Markham Museum’s Pottery Studio. Campers will create imaginative projects throughout the week, learning various techniques such as coiling, pinching process, and slab building. Campers will be taught various pottery skills by our professional potter and gain inspiration for their projects from the Museum’s collection and natural spaces. A must-have experience for any creative child! No experience required and all materials/firing included.
Age: 7 to 12
Date: December 29, 30, and 31, 2026
Time: 9 AM to 12 PM
Cost: $216.00 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356867
- Museum: Pre-teen & Teen Pottery Wheel throwing Camp (Dec 29-31)
This half day camp provides a wonderful opportunity for teens to learn the basics of Pottery hand building, throwing and trimming on the potter's wheel. Campers will develop the skills to create functional or decorative pieces such as mugs, bowls, vases, creative creatures and unique sculptures. No experience required and all materials/firings included.
Age: 10 to 16
Date: December 29, 30, and 31, 2026
Time: 1 to 4 PM
Cost: $180.60 (Resident Rate)
Course ID: 356869
Important Information for Parents/Guardians
- Campers must be the set minimum age within the same year to attend the camp.
- Campers must be toilet trained.
- Campers should wear clothing for indoor and outdoor activities.
- Campers should bring a water bottle, snacks, and a lunch for full-day programs. Our site is nut-aware and we ask that no nut products are brought on site.
- Campers will be indoors and outdoors throughout the day including areas that are air conditioned.
- Parents will receive important emails throughout the summer (please call the Customer Contact Centre at 905.477.5530 if your email address is not on file).
- Campers must be signed in and out of camp each day (photo ID required).
- Counsellor to Camper Ratio:
- 6 years and younger — 1 staff: 7 campers
- 7 years and older — 1 staff: 10 campers
One-to-One Summer Camp Inclusion Staff Request
Summer Camp Inclusion Staff work one-to-one with a participant throughout the duration of the camp or program. A counsellor can assist participants throughout the camp day by providing modifications in areas such as program instruction, movement, equipment, communication, and promoting socialization with others.
Find out more about Markham’s one-to-one inclusion support in camps.
Seasonal Job Opportunities
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Birthday Parties
We provide a unique Birthday Party experience for your child and their friends on our 25-acre grounds! We deliver fun, interactive and educational three-hour parties that always include hands-on activities and free time for your group in the party room.
Birthday Party Packages
Our three-hour birthday packages allow you to participate in two hours of specialized programming delivered by our trained staff and one-hour free time in our party room.
- Hand Building Pottery Party
Explore our pottery studio where children will have a chance to spend some time working on a themed ceramic project. Minimum age requirement is 4 years old.
Choose your two-hour project theme below:
- Animal Pinch Pots – Go wild! Create your very own animal themed cup, bowl or dish.
- Personalized Mini Bowls – Create and decorate your bowl with your favourite colours and designs!
- Name Plates – Make your very own decorative nameplate for your bedroom door or for you to eat with!
Your three-hour birthday party booking includes:
- Two hours of instructor-led activity in the pottery studio.
- One hour of free time with your guests for presents, cake, food in the Children's Party Room.
- Room for a maximum of 20 children and 20 adults.
Cost: $657 (plus HST)
- Wheel Throwing Pottery Party
During this two-hour session, guests will be introduced to the pottery wheel through hands-on play and experimentation, with the opportunity to glaze their piece.
Recommended age is 10 and up, adults welcome.
Your three-hour birthday party booking includes:
- Two hours of instructor-led pottery activity in the pottery studio.
- One hour of free time with your guests for presents, cake, food in the Children's Party Room.
- Room for a maximum of 16 children and 20 adults.
Cost: $720 (Plus HST)
- History Mystery Scavenger Hunt Party
Put on your detective hat and assemble your investigative team! The Scavenger Hunt birthday will use your skills to find hidden clues and complete challenges while exploring the history of Markham on our 25-acre outdoor site. This birthday party experience includes a combination of indoor and outdoor activities and is ideal for the active child who loves a fun adventure. Recommended age is 7 to 12 years old.
Your three-hour birthday party booking includes:
- Two hours of instructor-led indoor and outdoor activities and challenges
- One hour of free time with your guests for presents, cake, food in the Children’s Party Room
- Room for a maximum of 20 children, and 20 adults
Cost: $592 (plus HST)
- Everyday Superhero Birthday Party
Calling all superheroes! Do you have what it takes to save the day at Markham Museum? Step into the world of Everyday Superheroes in an interactive, experience-based exhibit. This action-packed birthday party celebrates the real-life heroes in our community—first responders, healthcare professionals, educators, innovators and more! Explore the exhibit at your own pace, or take on age-appropriate challenges that promote teamwork, problem-solving, and hands-on fun. Afterward, keep the excitement going with superhero-themed crafts and games! Recommended age is 3-6 years old.
Your three-hour birthday party booking includes:
- Two hours of instructor-led indoor activities and crafts
- One hour of free time with your guests for presents, cake, food in the Children’s Party Room
- Room for a maximum of 20 children, and 20 adults
Cost: $592 (plus HST)
Prices are subject to change.
Birthday Party Invitations are available for purchase, 20 Invitations for $35 or 16 Invitations for $28. Each invitation includes a FREE family admission pass to the Markham Museum which is valid for up to 6 months after your party*.
If you have any further questions or wish to book a party, please call 905.305.5970 or email museumeducation@markham.ca
*Not refundable for cash. Not valid for special, private or third-party, preregistered programs.
Booking Your Party
Fill out our convenient booking enquiry form below.
Alternatively, you may call the Museum directly at 905.305.5970 and ask for the Programming department. Parties should be booked 4 weeks in advance to secure your desired date. Full payment is required to secure your reservation.
- Important Booking Terms and Conditions:
- The fee includes the use of the Party Room for 3 hours with two program staff.
- Use of the refrigerator/freezer in the party room.
- Parents/Guardians may arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before the start of the party and must depart promptly at the end of the allotted time.
- The party room can accommodate a maximum of 40 guests - 20 children, including the birthday child, and 20 adults, including the birthday child’s parents. *Hand Building Pottery Birthdays have a maximum of 20 participants in the pottery studio. Wheel Throwing Pottery Birthdays have a maximum of 16 participants in the pottery studio.
- Food is not provided by the Museum, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks and refreshments or to order food to the Museum.
- Please ensure that plates, cups, napkins, and utensils are compostable or recyclable and that all garbage, recycling, and green bin waste is disposed of in the designated areas as Markham Museum is a zero-waste facility.
- Parents/guardians may wish to bring in their own themed décor. Please no confetti, sparklers, or piñatas. A birthday party sign and a welcome sign will be posted outside of the building to help direct your guests.
- There must be a minimum of 2 adults present during the activities outside of the party room.
- Payment/Cancellation
Full payment is required at the time of booking. We accept payment by cheque, interact or credit card. For cancellation information, see below:
- If you submit a written or verbal request to cancel at least five (5) business days before the start of the birthday party you will receive a full refund.
- If you submit a written or verbal request to cancel less than five (5) business days before the start of the birthday party you will be refunded for 50% of the total cost.
- If you submit a written or verbal request to cancel on the day of the birthday, you will be charged in full for the party.
Please feel free to email museuminfo@markham.ca or call 905.305.5970.
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
- Specialty Programs: At least seven (7) days' notice is required for any transfer or withdrawal and refund request for the following specialty programs: Summer & Holiday Camps, Museum Pottery Courses, One-day Courses, or Adult Workshops.
- A full refund will be provided for any withdrawal and refund request form submitted to the City of Markham more than seven days (exactly 168 hours) before the start time of the first class of the program. Clients can withdraw online, no withdrawal and refund request form is required.
- For example, Sebastian is registered in a Summer Camp that starts at 9 AM on Monday July, 15. Sebastian is eligible to receive a full refund if they withdraw online before 9 AM on Monday, July 8.
- No transfers, withdrawal or refunds will be provided for any requests submitted within seven days (exactly 168 hours), on, or after, the start time of the first class of the registered specialty program.
- Please note that the registration system does allow a client to withdraw from a course online within seven days (exactly 168 hours) of the start time of the first class of the program but will not provide a refund or a credit. If this occurs, please contact the contact centre for assistance. The policy for registered specialty programs as indicated above still applies when this occurs.
- Cheque payments will be reimbursed by cheque (approximately 4-6 weeks after approval).
- Any credit balances that remain unused on a client account for two (2) years will be cleared.
*Please visit The STEAM Project's website for their Withdrawal and Refund Policy
Summer Hours
Mon-Sun: 10 AM to 5 PM
Fall Hours (Starting Sept. 7)
Mon-Tues: Closed
Wed-Fri: 12 PM to 5 PM
Sat-Sun: 10 AM to 5 PM