Beaches Sandbox Updates: Frequently Asked Questions

As Beaches Sandbox enters an exciting new chapter, we've put together answers to some of the questions you may have about our fall season, programming, registration, and other upcoming changes.

Our Next Chapter

Why is Beaches Sandbox evolving into a neighbourhood epicentre?

Over the past four years, you have helped shape what Beaches Sandbox has become.

What started as a place for programs has grown into so much more. It's become a place where neighbours meet, friendships are built, creativity flourishes, wellness is nurtured, and people of all ages come together to learn, create, move and connect.

That's why we're embracing a new way of describing who we are. We chose the word "epicentre" because it reflects the role Beaches Sandbox now plays in our community—not simply as a place where programs happen, but as a welcoming place where arts, wellness and connection come together every day. For us, an epicentre is where people, ideas and experiences come together to create something bigger than themselves.

As we continue to expand our programs and hours of operation, we'll be able to welcome even more people with different interests, schedules and life stages, strengthening our role as a vibrant, inclusive gathering place for our community.

Why are some program fees changing?

As Beaches Sandbox grows, we're creating even more opportunities for you to learn, create, move and connect.

Many of the programs you know and love will continue to be free or affordable. Some existing programs will see modest fee adjustments, while new specialty workshops and premium experiences will be priced to reflect facilitator expertise, program length and materials.

As a registered non-profit, every dollar invested is reinvested back into Beaches Sandbox—helping us grow our programs, support our facilitators and continue creating exceptional experiences for you. 

Will Beaches Sandbox still offer affordable programs?

Absolutely. Accessibility remains at the heart of Beaches Sandbox.

Many of the programs you know and love—including Free Play and our popular seniors' programming—will continue to be offered at little or no cost. As we grow, we're also introducing new specialty workshops and premium experiences, giving you even more choice across a wide range of interests and budgets.

Most importantly, we never want cost to be a barrier to participation. Financial assistance is available for eligible participants – please reach out to learn more.

Why are studio rentals being discontinued?

As we continue to grow as a neighbourhood epicentre for Arts, Wellness & Connection, we're dedicating more of our studio spaces to the programs and experiences that bring our community together. Existing rental bookings will be honoured, but we will no longer accept new studio rental requests.

By dedicating our studios to programs, we'll be able to offer more classes, workshops, wellness experiences, cultural activities, and community-focused opportunities throughout the year.

New This Fall

Will there be new programs this fall?

Yes! This fall, we're expanding our lineup with new arts, wellness, cultural, educational, and community experiences, including exciting specialty workshops and premium programs. Stay tuned for our full fall schedule.

How will expanded hours of operation benefit the community?

Expanded hours allow us to offer programming at more times throughout the day, making it easier for seniors, adults, families, youth, creatives, and wellness participants to find programs that fit their schedules.

What does Afterglow joining Beaches Sandbox mean?

As Beaches Sandbox continues to grow as a neighbourhood epicentre for Arts, Wellness & Connection, we're excited to welcome the Afterglow community.

Afterglow is a well-loved local yoga and wellness studio, and this partnership allows us to expand our wellness offerings with even more yoga, movement and fitness classes led by the trusted instructors their community already knows and loves.

For current Afterglow members, everything you love will continue, including your memberships, class packs and booking profiles. For the wider Beaches Sandbox community, it means even more opportunities to move, connect and support your wellbeing—all in one welcoming place.

More information about schedules and introductory offers will be shared soon.

Registration

When does fall registration open?

• Senior Registration: Thursday, August 6 at 10:00 a.m. 

• General Public Registration: Friday, August 7 at 10:00 a.m. 

We encourage you to register early, as many programs fill quickly.

How do I register for a program?

Visit www.beachessandbox.com, click My Account, sign in (or create an ActiveNet account), browse available programs, add your selected programs to your cart and complete your registration.

If you're new to Beaches Sandbox, we recommend creating your ActiveNet account before registration opens to make the process even smoother.