Welcome to the list of February camps. Parents have fewer vacation days than kids. For many of you, camps are necessary. For others, it’s an occasion to introduce kids to something new or organize a week full of joy and new friendships. No matter the reason, this list is for you! In this article, I tried to compile as much as I could find.

Disclaimer: camps propositions with visuals and descriptions are paid listings from trusted, hand-picked organizations. At the bottom of the page, you’ll non-sponsored camps listings.

Ready? Let’s do it!

PLANET CLIMBING
5+, Lancy

Planet Climbing offers HOLIDAY CAMPS for your child where they will enjoy a great mix of sports-related to climbing and other fun and creative activities. These week-long camps are not only for “climber-kids”! Every child will enjoy the time learning new skills and making friends. All our camps are fully guided and ensure all have a safe and fun time.
In the program: climbing games in our climbing gym, outdoor climbing day (optional), kids yoga, arts and crafts, treetop courses, parkour introduction, fluo sports room and more outdoor games in collaboration with third-party providers (some specific activities may vary due to weather, season and availability).
Join the fun and push your vertical limits for fun!

Groups of 8 kids max. Weekly and daily booking possible. From 08:30 to 17:00. Extra child-care hours on-demand.
Full week (Mon-Fri) – 490 CHF
Day – 115 CHF
*Discount of -10% on the full week price if at least four bookings at the same time (family/friends).

Details, booking instructions and more here.

WOODWORKING WITH LES PETITS BRICOLOS
Bastions/Plainpalais area

During this camp children will not only make things but will create things they can use! They can build their own sledge for example and use it this winter! They can also make crossbows, mazes, a table, or a box. Building with own hand is utterly satisfying, builds self-confidence and pure joy!

Every day from 9am to 5pm.
100CHF/day or 400CHF/week. Children need to bring their own food.
More info: Les Petits Bricolos.

SPELL LANGUAGES
4+, Plainpalais

Language and play feast at Spell this winter is looking great. There are four camps in four languages: English, French, Italian and Spanish. The program includes ice-skating, a visit to Santa’s house, pottery, pizza making, playing with Emys Robot, and more. And while enjoying all these activities, your child will learn or improve the language of your choice.

A week of half days (9h00-12h30) 460 CHF
A week of full days (9h00-16h30): 660 CHF
Lunch: 3-dish meal available for additional 10 CHF/day.

To explore all the options, please go to Spell Languages website.

GYMBOREE
3-8 YO, GRAND-SACONNEX

Gymboree’s BILINGUAL FEBRUARY CAMPS on 14-18 February is a non-parent participation activity for 3 to 6-year-olds either mornings 8h30-12h or afternoons 13h-16h30 or all day 8h30-16h30.
It is time for children to have fun and make new friends. It is also an opportunity to learn French and/or English. Activities include art projects, play and movement time on our specially designed equipment, music and songs, imaginary play, tactile time, story time, and more.

Price:
CHF 330 for a week of half-days.
CHF 550 for a week of full days (lunch not provided).
You’ll find all the details on Gymboree’s website.

MULTI FUN CAMPS AT TOTEM
4+ and 6+, Meyrin & Versoix

TOTUP
3-8 YO, LANCY 

OTHER CAMPS:

• Atelier Podcast (in French) for 10y+ in Meyrin: details here.
• Stage Multisport in Sergy (France), 8+. contact: [email protected].
• Science at Xlabs for 8+.
• Soccer for boys and girl with Intersoccer.
• Circus gymnastics at Kids Up in Meyrin.
• Discoveries, discussions, fun, and yoga with Espace Colibri.
• Musical camps for 2+ and 4+ by La Bulle d’Air.
• IT Step Academy.
• Various camps for different ages in many places: https://camps.ch/

BOIS MAGIQUE
14 January – 20 February, Plan-les-Ouates

We’re starting with Plan-les-Ouates’ annual treat for the youngest children (ages 0-4). The exhibition space in the La Julienne has ben transformed into an enchanted forest. It looks wonderful, topped with beautiful sounds creating a magic atmosphere. A place designed to offer relaxation, contemplation, wonder, creativity and sharing. For opening times and more practical details click here.

Le Temps des Dinosaurs
till April 22nd; Palexpo

A giant exhibition for all kids fascinated by the world of Dinosaurs. There are many, from Tyrannosaurus to Triceratops,  altogether 50 animated specimens! They come to life, move, make sounds, growl.  This adventure is spread out on over  4,500 m². Fun experience for all ages. More information on Palexpo’s website.

Geneva Lux
21 January – 6 February, Geneva Center

Every winter, once Christmas decorations bore our eyes, Geneva starts to shine! Geneva Lux is an open-air exhibition of light sculptures and installations spread around the lake. Some of the works come back every year, others visit the city one time only. There’s a separate article about it on Parentville, you can read it here.

Donne-moi la main on va traverser la rue
till 20 February, Bibliotheque de la Cite

A new exhibition at the la Cite Bibliotheque (destined for 9+) is a visual and sound experience. It shows the graphic universe of the artists and relates the strong link she has with her hometown, Beirut. The exhibition is bathed in the sounds recorded in Lebanon. Wander through the heart of a gigantic fresco to discover her works or even hear the artist’s voice. Many workshops and meetings accompany this exhibition, you can find out more about it here.

POP UP SHOP- LES ARCADES
till the end of January; Gland

The municipality of Gland helped create the first popo up oin the city, that supports local enterpreneurs. The Pop-Up Shop is a living commercial space of 400m2 made available for two months to artisans, local artists and other micro-enterprises, allowing them to launch their activities and test their attractiveness. Check their Facebook page to see what’s on on which day. It’s a lovely place! Available till the end of January.

MAISON DU SALEVE

A perfect place for a family outing, with kids as young as 3yo: bwith oth indoor and outdoor options! You can visit the permament playful exhibition about everything-Saleve; or a temporary exhibition « La forêt, maison des animaux » – designed especially for children. If you’d like to avoid indoors a the moment, La Maison du Saleve has a lovely small parc behind the building, and is a starting point of a short and easy hike. You can find out all the informatoin here.

ICE SKATING

One of the simplest outing to organize. With skating rings in many places of the canton (Bastions, Grand-Saconnex, Vernets, Vergers, Charmille, Sous-Moulin). Remember to take gloves, they are obligatory, and enjoy this winter sport in the city! You can find out more information here.

AMSTRAMGRAM THEATRE

AmStramGram is putting on stage to shows in January: Woodbeat and Willy Wolf.

Woodbeat is a show for small spectators (2+), and does not require being a French-speaker. Willy Wolf is a super fascinating show for kids 8+ with acrobatics and a motorcycle! You can book your tickets here.

THEATRE DES MARIONNETTES

This month, the theatre invites children 8+ to a show about, in short, animals. Their wilderness and domestication. A story of a dog, whose life changes overnight and who discoveres ancestral force awakaning inside him. You’ll find more information here.

MUSEUMS

Let’s not forget about workshops and activities in the museums! MEG has activities for all ages, even for babies (click here). Ariana offers visiting with kids by using their treasure hunt charts, there is a cute play area and more (here’s your link). Last but not least, there’s MAH with the famous activities for small and older – you can check the program here.

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Ho Ho Ho! There are so many Christmas events this year, so much wonderfulness, it seems that we will be rewarded for the dryness of the previous year. Christmas 2021 here we come!

Without any further ado,

Let’s do it!

MAIN EVENTS

NOEL AU JARDIN
November 18 – December 26

Geneva’s own Christmas market moves this year from Bastion to Jardin Anglais. Christmas by the lake sounds indeed marvelous! It’s an absolute not-to-miss: lots of food, including the famous Fondue Chalet, activities for kids in the yourts, shows, concerts, and local artisanals. In short: eat, have fun, and get Christmas gifts locally!

More info: here.

HAMEAU DU PERE NOEL
& GRAND PARC DE NOEL

Hameau du Pere Noel is an incredible place. It’s a village in nearby France (a really short drive) in which Santa lives with all his family. The decorations are mindblowing and the whole setup feels as real as it can be. You can read all about it here. This year’s particularity: Santa will be tehre the whole time (usually he is asleep in December). But that is not all! The neighboring Grand Parc d’Andilly was transformed into the Grand Parc de Noel! You can get one ticket to visit both places on the same day (a shuttle bus will take you from to the other) or decide to visit just one. Both places have shops by the exit, with all you may need for a magical Christmas.

For Hameau du Pere Noel click here.
For the Grand Parc de Noel it’s here.

MONTREUX NOEL
November 19 – December 24

The most famous Christmas market in the region is back (no Covid pass needed for the outdoors activities). It’s big, beautiful, by the lake. Lots of stalls with food and possible Christmas gifts. But the special feautures are what makes it amazing:

• La Maison du Pere Noel – a short train ride up the mountain to the Rochers-de-Naye (at 2042 m) will take you to Santa’s house. An opportunity to meet Santa, talk to him, and even get a small surprise, and woohoo – a certificate of meeting Santa! More info here.
• Light On Ice (till January 6) – the most spectacular and magical ice rink in the region! See it for yourself here.
• Flying Santa – the traditional treat! See Santa’s sledge fly above Lake Geneva in Montreux. I’m not joking – chek it out.
• Christmas activities at Chateau Chillon – all info here.

ICE SKATING

Ice skating is back after 2 years! For the best ice quality head to Vernets or Vergers. For the charm – Bastions or Carouge. For fun – any ice rink in the canton will do. Each municipality, and many neighborhoods will have their own ice rinks. On each rink gloves are obligatory, on each you can rent skates. Some will offer classes or fun activities for kids. And most will have a buvette with something sweet/hot to reward the skating efforts. Enjoy!

SANTA’S CHIMNEY – bricolage workshop (6-10 yo)
December 11, Chateau de Prangins

An unforgettable Saturday at the Château, spiced with history, original creations and a tasty Christmas snack!
Program includes a visit of the castle, a creative workshop, and a snack. The price is 25 CHF per child, reservations are required. More info here.

CIRQUE DE NOEL
November 27 – January 9, Plainpalais

Acrobatics, clowns, magic tricks all in Christmas atmosphere. Attention: the show includes animals performing tricks. You can check more information on their website.

Coupe de Noel
December 18-19, Jardin Anglais

Swimming in the winter waters of Lake Geneva anyone? Even if not, it’s a great event to watch. Christmas Cup brings together more than 3,000 swimmers – 500 in competition and 2,500 in fancy costumes! Check out the details here.

OTHER CHRISTMAS MARKETS

CHRISTMAS IN CAROUGE

Like many municipalities in the canton, Carouge will celebrating the holiday season. How? In two ways. First of all there’s the Christmas Market from the 10th till the 12th of December. The second traditional celebration is called « Carouge Magique » and it is a wonderland: luminous art installations in the charming streets of this special city may surprise you (birds on the fountains, carps above your head).

Marché de Noël at Rudolf Steiner School
November 24, Confignon

In most Steiner schools around the world, the Christmas market is a traditional time of celebration. It is the fruit of many months of work on the part of families, teachers and friends of the school. On the program this year: a concert, raffle, and around thirty stands with the handmade and artisanal creations.

CHRISTMAS MARKET BY KIDS FOR KIDS
December 8th, Bastions

The traditional Christmas market held by the pupils of the primary schools of the City of Geneva returns to the Bastions. Under the heated Escalade tent, by selling games and toys they learn the value of things, but most importantly to give a new life to old toys. Happiness is not about having the latest gadgets. More info here.

Herstreet little Xmas market
4-5 December, Eaux-Vives

Herstreet is organizing a local makers’ market, which will show their offer for Christmas decorations and gifts. For children, a special Santa’s grotto awaits – with Santa of course (social distancing between Santa and the kids as we don’t want to get him sick for Christmas). An animator will also host groups of kids to create Christmas ornaments (during that time parents can calmly enjoy the market). You can read more details about this event here.

Noel a Lancy
December 1-5, Lancy

Christmas market in Lancy will be filled with interesting stalls, activities concerts, shows and beautiful illuminations. You can consult the full program on this webiste.

NOEL A LA FERME
November 13 – December 18, Ferme de Bude

Every Saturday, from November 13th to December 18th, two partner stalss will settle in the farm’s yard. An opportunity  to enjoy local products and share the passion of taste. You can see the full schedule here.

L’éco-marché de Bubble Ethic
December 4-5; Saint-Gervais

Close to the train station, the new premises of Voisins de Saint-Gervais and their coworking cafe, host an eco-market in honor of local and sustainable creation. The cherry on top? Brunch! Check it out.

SHOWS

CHRISTMAS CAROL
November 27 – December 19; Simply Theater, Versoix

Simply Theatre bring Charles Dickens’ festive tale back to Geneva following their smash-hit 2017 run, in an enchanting stage adaptation full of joy, song, and magic – the perfect festive treat for all the family!

For more information and tickets press here.

CINDERELLA by GAOS
November 26 – December 5, Nyon

Gaos is the Geneva Musical Theater society. They prepare 3 shows each season, along with other ponctual events. Now is the time for their winter production – Cinderella, Alan P. Frayn’s traditional pantomime. It’s a show for all ages, though because of its lenght probably best with kids older than 4 (but decide yourself, of course).

You can find out more and book your ticktes here.

CONTES DE NOEL
December 1 & 8; Plan-les-Ouates

This seasonal storytelling event is a part of the exhibition at La julienne « Ho Ho Ho! From Saint Nicolas to Santa Claus » (from November 26 to December 23). You can register for free up to 2 hours before the performance. Then on site within the limit of the remaining places. Children must respect the minimum age (minimum 5 yo) and be accompanied by an adult. Covid certificate compulsory for 16 years old and over.

OTHERS

ESCALADE

Not at all Christmas related but the most important celebration in Geneva happens in December. You can find out all what it’s about in my article here. As for this year’s Escalade events we’ll have the traditional parade. The rest of the program will be available here soon.

ICE SKATING

The most christmasy urban sport there is! And there are plenty of rinks in the canton. Almost every neighborhood and every municipality provides a rink. For good ice quality check Vernets and Vergers (Meyrin). For charm go to Bastions or Carouge. For fun try eny rink closest to you. All ice skating places provide skates for rent. Gloves are always obligatory. All places have an accompanying buvette with hot drinks and simple snacks. Some of them (like Vernets) have accompanying restaurants with good menu and fondue!

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We survived Halloween, now is the time to brace ourselves for November. Why? We now have one month to Thanksgiving, Escalade, and just a few weeks till Christmas! Days are short and time flies faster, hence the bracing need. Luckily, it’s also the month of Automnales (yes, it’s back!), start of light shows, fondue with friends.

Of course, there is more! Indoors and outdoors – the fun awaits.

Ready? Let’s do it!

MATHS ET BRILLANT – SOUND & LIGHT SHOW
till 21 November, Bastions

Colloque Wright is back and with it its famous mapping on the facade of UNIGE in Parc des Bastions. It’s worth withstanding the cold, I assure you. It’s a beautiful show that evokes the beauty of mathematics. The piantings and animations will guide us through the different civilizations that have shaped mathematics. But even if you’re nit into maths, go and see this show – it’s beautiful! It will be screened every day at 18h, 19h, 20h30. You can read all about it here.

La chasse aux vilains à Genève
till 28 November, Old Town Geneva

Villans hide in the monuments and streets of the ancient medieval city. Can you find them? This independent treasure hunt is suitable for families. This treasure hunt takes you on a mysterious quest filled with puzzles and challenges. Thanks to your playbook and its many clues, you will go in search of the villainous characters hidden in Old Town. Book it here.

Scientific Show at Cern (6+)
Till December 1, Meyrin

Break a rubber tube with a hammer? Levitate a magnet? Come and watch some scientific experiments! Some of them will look like magic tricks. Show done in a simple and playful way. Different properties of matter and magnetism will be disccused during the show. It’s free, Covid pass for all 16+ is required, reservations obligatory. Check it all here.

Treasure hunt: « A la recherche de Mère Royaume », 6+
3 November – 5 December, Bastions

This animated treasure hunt takes you on a mysterious quest, filled with puzzles and challenges. Thanks to your game booklet and its many clues, you will go in search of Mère Royaume. Any clues you find will earn you points that turn into treats and other surprises at the end of the race. Special secrets about the history of Escalade await! More info here.

Treasure Hunt: « Le puzzle mystérieux », 6+
November 6 & 28, Musée Barbier-Mueller

A new quest at the Barbier-Mueller Museum that will invite young adventurers to be curious and inventive! Children are invited to go on an adventure to Southeast Asia to piece together clues that will allow them to solve a strange puzzle while marveling at the mysterious objects of Ðông Sơn culture! To book click here.

Balade animée « Les secrets de Genève »; 6+
November 10 & 28 Old Town

This lively walk invites curious children aged 6 to 12 to discover the well-hidden treasures of the old town of Geneva while having fun. No more guided tours where your child keeps pulling you on the sleeve to leave. Here, everything is designed so that children discover the history of Geneva while having fun!

La Nuit du Conte
November 12; all canton

This year, the  Nuit du conte will take place on November 12. The theme chosen for 2021 is: « Our planet – our house ». Schools, libraries, bookstores, youth centers, community centers and other institutions are once again invited to participate and share the experience of storytelling and reading. This year, MEG is joining the event with a wonderful program, but be sure to check this link for all events in the canton.

AUTOMNALES
12-21 November, Palexpo

It’s a huge yearly event in Palexpo (well, it used to be yearly BC). It’s several expos/fair in one place at the same time. What can families expect? Brick Live, Expo Juniors, Salon Bebe et Moi, Cats Exhibition, Dogs Exhibition, Cook’n’Show, Salon du Velo (bikes), and much much more! There also many worksops and conferences. It’s a good place to start Christmas gifts hunt. More info: here.

Le Festival des Petits Bouts
13-14 November, Plainpalais

It will be the 4th edition of the festival designed for children as young as 1! On the menu: magician, opera for kids, relaxation workshops, and more!  Check it out and book here.

NOEL AU JARDIN
18 Novembre – 26 Decembre

Christmas starts in November. This holiday season will finally resemble the one from the BC era (I’ll let you decode BC on your own). Once placed in the Parc des bastions, Geneva’s own Christma market moves to the gorgeous Jardin Anglais. Lots of activities for kids, restaurants, shops, mulled wine, fondue chalet, and above all Jardin Anglaid in Christmasy look! You can find all info and book your tables here.

FESTIVAL FILMAR
19-28 November

Filmar is the biggest film festival devoted tothe latino-american culture in Switzerland. There is a separate program for children: they can discover movies, series, and short films either with family or within parascolaire activities. At the same time and throughout the year, FILMAR School presents school screenings adapted to all levels and to many disciplines. Find out more here.

TOTEM BLACK LIGHT PARTY
27 November, Meyrin

Totem Escalade is bringing the blacklight party to its new premises in Meyrin! It will be an afternoon and evening in the dark, climbing under the UV light, fab decorations, and entertainment for children (for adults too, of course – till 4 am in the morning). Theme & dress code: Back To The Jungle. The best costume will wina subscription to Totem. The whole program and reservations here.

OTHER OPTIONS

ICE RINKS

They are back after last year’s closure. Two main ones are at Vernets and Vergers. You can rent the skates and have fun. They also offer courses, classes, and have on-site restaurants. Sounds like a nice day out, right? Be sure to check your commune’s rinks.

THEATRES

Lots of shows this season! A particurarly rich program at AmStramGram (including shows that require no knowledge of French!). Also, Simply Theater is back with their wonderfullness. You can also check Theatre des Marionnettes de Geneve which presents shows even for the youngest spectators. Theatre du Loup is also busy with a show for 6+.  There are many more shows for all ages all over Geneva, you can check these theatres here.

MUSEUMS

The Natural History Museum has a brand new exhibition: « Tout Contre la Terre », that talks about the climate change from an emotional angle.

Musee d’Ethnographie also launched a climate-change related exhibition: « Environmental Injustice Indigenous Peoples’ Alternatives ».

MAH, on the other hand, tackles fashion in an interesting way: « Pour la Galerie ».

Musee du Leman, which is in itself a great place for an outing, has a new exhibition all about the swans.

Last but not list, World Press Photo 2021 will be in Chateau de Prangins from November 11th.

This article’s photo credits: Laurent Egli.

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Oksana from Nutrition Right is back on Parentville with her lovely recipes. Her idea is to provide you with easy, healthy and yummy recipes to prepare with kids. Enjoy!

To help you ensure your kids eat healthy products and avoid getting sick, I am sharing two tasty and simple recipes. Involving your child in cooking may help boost their enthusiasm for eating it afterwards. If however, you wish to keep the ingredients a secret, then feel free to cook by yourself and serve them a surprise dish, which hopefully they’ll like.

As caring parents, we try to help them stay healthy by getting them to eat as many fruits and veggies as they can. We often have to be creative in ways of serving fruits and vegetables, especially when dealing with picky eaters.

So, how can we get our kids to eat more of these healthy products? Often “hiding” their least favourite or unknown vegetable amongst others work very well. At other times, a different way of preparing & serving fruits or vegetables does the trick.

Baked Broccoli Battonnets

We often, unknowingly, overcook the green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, kale. It happens especially during boiling.  As a result, lots of vitamins get lost, including the cold-busting Vitamin C. This recipe only requires blanching broccoli and  baking it in the oven. Blanching, over cooking or steaming are the best cooking methods to ensure the vegetables retain all vitamins.

Preparation & Cooking time 35 mins.
Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

2 cups of fresh broccoli, chopped into medium sizes pieces;
1 egg;
1/3 cup hard cheese like cheddar or Gruyere, grated;
½ small onion, diced;
1/3 homemade breadcrumbs;
Salt and pepper.

Method

Step 1 (child) : Wash the broccoli under cold water.

Step 2 (adult) : Cut the broccoli into medium sizes pieces. Blanche the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain well and cool (cooling by rinsing with cold water is fine).

Step 3 (adult) Dice the onion. Grate the cheese.

Step 4 (child & adult): Using leftover bread, blend it in mixer until it resembles breadcrumbs. Any type of bread works well.

Step 5 (child & adult): Take a big bowl and crumble the broccoli into small pieces using the fingers. Add breadcrumbs, egg, broccoli, cheese to the bowl & mix well until the mixture is a little bit sticky. If it is not sticky at all, add 1 egg yolk.

Step 6 (adult): Preheat the over too 400 °F /200 °C.

Step 7 (child & adult): Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons and form an elongated shape, like a fish finger. Put the ready made batonnets them onto a baking sheets.

Step 8 (adult): cook in the oven for about 20 mins , turning half way. Once ready, serve as a side dish for a main course.

Orange smoothie

This recipe has only three ingredients: orange juice, yogurt, and honey. It may sound like a strange combination but you’ll be pleasantly surprised how good it tastes. The smoothie can be an afternoon snack or accompany the breakfast.

Orange juice is packed with Vitamin C, which helps to strengthen the immune system. The live bacteria in probiotic yogurt are essential for healthy gut which impacts the absorption of nutrients and boosts the immune system.
A little bit of honey gives a yummi sweet taste. What’s more, honey has an antibacterial quality which fights gems and bad bacteria in digestive tract.

Ingredients

Serves 1
½ cup fresh unsweetened orange juice;
½ cup of bio probiotic yogurt;
1tsp runny bio honey.

Method

Mix thoroughly all the ingredients and drink once ready. Avoid making it in advance as it doesn’t taste as good.

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A beautiful, and visibly filled with lots of positive energy lady, Dany, gathers kids around to welcome them at the camp. « My job is going through all kinds of bins », she says to explain her job. Some kids laugh, some are baffled. Mommy said to never get stuff out of the bin. But when she goes deeper into the details they quickly grasp the concept and are wowed by what we can do with things that were destined to the « decheterie ».

About RécréCréa

Danny started association called RécréCréa several years ago. Clearly, Dany and other members don’t dive into single bin in the canton. The goal of this association is to recover materials, so-called « clean » waste from companies and individuals to give them a second life through creativity and play. Their depot resembles Ali Baba’s cave. Whatever material you may need for your creative project, it must be there.

Recrecrea offers activities for families, kids, camps, but also workshops for adults, and company workshops. Recrecrea has a wonderful way of educating through fun and play.

CAMPS

Oh the camps! Kids paradise! On most weeks of school vacations and for several weeks every summer, RécréCréa offers camps. Each week has a different theme, and some may be organized in a collaboartion with another organization.

Children spend days laughing a lot, creating, playing games, chilling, and running outside. Dany is some kind of a magical child whisperer, she magically makes the group work together and brings so much positive energy they will be fueled for weeks! And not only Dany, she chooses her associates wisely, so whoever is taking care of the kids during those weeks, knows how to gain their trust and create a friendly relationship. Children feel happy and safe.

The only risk of signing your kids up for this camp, is that they will want another week, and another, and to be back next year. At least, this is Parentville’s personal experience.

It is such a wonderful place!

Creativity in comes in many forms during these camp weeks. Be ready to welcome at home vehicules with CD wheels, or big cardboard ice cream shops, or wooden houses for figurines. Sky is the limit, and I assure that your kid will surprise you. In Recrecrea everything is possible.

FREEDOM

Freadom is the feature that comes first to my mind when I describe camps at Recrecrea. Freedom not only to create whatever kids want, and not only the freedom to choose materials. It’s freedom in general.

Nobody is forced to do anything. There’s lots of free time and at the same time lots to do for those who don’t need free time. No child is left alone, but they are free to do what they want, and free to be themselves. It must have something to do with Dany’s big heart and empathy.

Maybe, explaining freedom at Recrecra on an example, will work better?

PERSONAL

In the summer of 2020, Dany was incredibly kind to offer a camp to Z and her friend. Having a child who does not like camps, I hesitated, but we gave it a go. It was the best decision I made in a long time. Girls had amazing fun. It was always hard to get them to leave, and each day they were coming back with cool DIY projects.

We now have two wooden houses with some fancy decorations, paintings on wooden boards, a proper wallet made out of a chips packaging, self-made face masks and a big cardboard house (I think it’s a house).

Whenever I came, I heard laughter and joy. One time the kids filled a small kiddy swimming pool with torn paper bits and spent hours playing with it, throwing it around, making paper battles.

Some kids where doing wooden houses, while others were painting, or playing outside. This is freedom.

On the last day they almost cried, so… they stayed another week. At the end of the last week, Dany was asking children what she could do better for the next year. The main answer was: let us sleep here!

PRACTICAL INFO

Recrecrea’s online:
recrecrea.ch; @recrecrea on IG, @recrecrea on FB

Camps are for children between ages 4 and 10.

Meals are included in the price.

You can enroll for a week or per day, or half day. Everything is possible.

Boo! It’s Halloween season and I bet you’re up for some spookingly fun time. Well, as every year, I put together a list of some of the events happening on the occasion of Halloween in Geneva.

Ready? Let’s do it!

Swiss Vapeur Parc
October 14th – 30th; Le Bouveret; all ages

If you haven’t yet visited the Swiss Vapeur Parc now is the time! If you already have, you  may enjoy the new Halloween-y look of the place. Some mildly scary characters, pumpkins, and spider nets will make the train journies even more exciting. To get your tickets click here.

Fete de la Courge by Schilliger Garden Center
October 23rd; Plan-Les-Ouates & Gland

Pumpkin Festival is back again at Schilliger with some fun activities for all ages. Children can learn how to hollow and cut the pumpkin and take their creation back home. There will be a pumpkin contest – the heaviest and the most original will win – a good opportunity to see variety of pumpkins and squash. Last but not least there will be an Autumn Fair in Gland and Matran – with local artisans and squash-based snacks! More info here.

Pumpkin curving with L’Atelier Mandala
October 24th, 27th, 29th, 30th; Viry

A fun parent-child activity for this time of year. Halloween in Geneva would not been Halloween without a pumpkin curving fun. You can do it at home of ourse, but why not try doing it at an artistic workshop. Check it out here.

Chateau d’Aigle
October 29th-30th

It’s a bit of a drive from Geneva but their Halloween events look promising! Evening light shows on 29th and 30th, and then on Saturday a day of activities, magic, and discoveries for all ages! A good excuse to visit the castle. Click here to know more.

Kids Halloween by Spell Languages
October 30th; Plainapalais area; for all ages

Spell Languages will never stop to surprise us all with their brilliant ideas! For this year’s Halloween they partenerd up with Haydee Barron Academie de Dane, AmaKids, Neo Academie, and Emys to organize a party filled with mysterious games, creepy activities, trick or treating, and more! To make the party work better for everyone there different timings for different age groups. Here’s the link to the detailed info and an enrollementt form.

PARC AVENTURE
October 30th and 31st; 3+; Evaux

The most adventourous parc in Geneva will be decorated with dreadful elements the whole week of October holidays. On the weekend of 30th October you’re invited to come with your costume to enjoy the scary trails in a new way. They also prepared some surprises. Reservations are highly recommended. You can see how it works by clicking here.

Halloween Family Party by Yatooland
October 30th; Les Acacias; 3+

Yatooland prepared a family party with a spooky maze, photo competition, disco, contests and more! You can book your tickets already and secure a spot in the place that kids adore and parents dread. If you’re brave enough, check the details here.

Halloween Party by Kids Club Coppet
October 30; ages 2-9; Coppet

A yearly tradition has been kept up by Kids Club in Coppet. A Halloween Party with games, arts activities and treats for kids ages 2-9. Not far from Geneva, in Coppet. You can find the details here.

Halloween au Chateau
October 31st, Prangins, all ages

Isn’t in a marvelous idea to celebrate Halloween at the old castle? Chateau de Prangins is beautiful and old enough to host old-time ghosts. This year, ghosts will not disturb children, instead the castle’s team prepared storytime and candy! You’re more than welcome to come wearing a costume. Check it out here.

Halloween Family Part at Fort Ecluse
October 30th, France

Fort Ecluse (over in France) closes its doors in autumn. You will have to either wait for the spring to visit this great place in a stunning landscape or go for their Halloween Party! The description promises a really scary evening, it ought to be superb! You can read all about it on their website.

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Say what? What holidays? The school has just started!

Potato holidays are a surprise to many. It depends on where you’re from. The argument behind having the October holidays is in the past, and it is a simple one. In October, kids had to help harvest potatoes (and another veg that needed harvesting). Nowadays, the October holidays are a pleasure for many families (travelling to warmer parts of the planet) and a nuisance to many other parents.

Anyway, you’re here because you’re looking for childcare during the last week of October. You’ll find propositions of various kinds, including an option for kids as young as 2.

Ready? Let’s do it.

The content of this article IS NOT sponsored. The list is not exhaustive. It’s what I found and put together to help you.

GYMBOREE GENEVA
3+, Grand-Saconnex

Halloween-themed camps for 3-6 year olds. You can enroll for the full week, half days, or day by day. Up to you. More info here.

Herstreet
2-3 yo, Eaux-Vives

A camp of half days for little munchking aged 2 & 3. Located comfortably in the center of Eaux Vives at Herstreet. More info here.

TOTUP
2-3 & 3-6 yo; Lancy

TotUp is a nursery, a school, and a family sports-center. It’s one of the best places for camps for little kids. The staff knows how to take care of them, and the facility is filled with entertainment. Read more here.

CAMPZONE
3+, various locations

Various camps in various locations. From horseriding to computers. You can find out more here.

Academie de l’Opera
3-5 & 6-12 yo, Eaux-Vives

Here’s a week of theater, singing, joking, and trying something new! Great camps at Academie de l’Opere (details here).

ECOLINT
3+, Nations & Chene Bougeries

Various camps on rive gauche & rive droite: many differents sposrts, and opportunities to discover new passions. Check tjem out here.

Kock On Wood
8+, Nations

A woodworking camps in ap rofessional woodoworking atelier. Great atmosphere in a fun setting. Details are available here.

RECRECREA & PETITS BRICOLOS
4-12 yo, Plan-les-Ouates

A full on creative camp in Plan-les-Ouates. Upcycling, recycling, lots of silly fun, woodworking, and good food. Check it out here.

Spell Languages
4-10 yo, Plainpalais

Whether your kids want/need to start a new language, get better at a language they learn at school, or if they simply wantto have fun, Spell Languages in Plainpalais area is the best choice. All info here.

Espace Colibri
4-10 yo, Carouge

A journey around the world with relaxing activities: theatre and body expressions. Read more here.

HB Dance Academy
3-9 yo, Eaux-Vives

How about a week of Halloween themed camp? The Dance Academy of Haydee Barron prepared a special Halloween camp with activities from13h30 till 17h00. It will be all about having fun and moving a lot (eg outdoor games, olympics, arts, master chef, treasure hunt and more!). You can find out more about it here.

IT STEP
4-13 yo, Nations

Computers, lego, robotics – all in one at IT Step Academy. For all the details click here.

Spy Kids Academy (Les Enfants Terribles)
4-8 yo, Petit-Saconnex

A great camp for all those kids passionate about solving puzzles, mysteries, spying. During the camp kids’ patience, sense of observation, organiztional and planning skills will be put up to the test. It sounds fun! More info here.

KIDS UP
4+, Meyrin

Circus gymnastics for kids in Meyrin (half days for 1P-2P. Full days as of 3P). You can check the details here.

Planet Climbing
5-8 yo, Lancy

A climbing camp with yoga, games and a guarantee of fun. Planet Climbing is the most warm and friendly place to start the climbing adventure. Check it out here.

Future Kids
5-14 yo; Institut Florimont

Robotics, naimaions, video games creation and more awaits children at Future Kids. Here’s their website.

Au Fil du Sens
5-10 yo; Charmille

Five days to discover and identify emotions and learn how to handle them through yoga, relaxation. Cooperation and creative activities are also in the menu. Kids will also experience the soothing effect of the sound bath and vibratory instruments. Here’s the link.

XLABS
Servette

Scientific paradise created by XLabs. Super cool experiments! In other words, it’s like spending a week in Hogwarts. Check it out by clicking here.

Bubbles Club
4+, Eaux-Vives

Hallowen-y sporty camps in eaux Vives. You can find out more here.

TOTEM
4+, Meyrin

Climbing and multi sports camps in the new spacious climbing placa aka Totem Meyrin. You can read more about Totem’s camps here.

CPV
Various locations

Lots and lots of differenct camps for all ages at camps.ch

Bull d’Aire
4-8 yo, Petit-Saconnex

It’s all about the music in Bull d’Aire, also during the October holidays. Dancing, playing instruments, singing. Check out the details here.

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