Activities
The City of Guelph’s youth programming offers a wide range of programming to engage, entertain and keep teens busy! Our programs are a great place to meet new friends, explore new activities, stay active and have fun.
We offer a variety of safe, friendly and free drop-in programs for our youth audience. Looking for volunteer opportunities, leadership development programming, a way to raise your voice in your community or just chill with friends? Our youth team has you covered. Check out of program and drop-in offerings just for you(th)!
Guelph Youth Council
The Guelph Youth Council (GYC) is a dynamic group of youth ages 13–18 dedicated to enhancing youth culture and amplifying young voices in Guelph. Through weekly meetings at City Hall (Wednesdays, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m., September to June), members collaborate with City Council, organize events, participate in leadership training, and advocate for youth-friendly spaces and programs.
Applications open twice a year in September and February, with orientation and training to ensure new members feel supported from the start. Volunteering with GYC is a meaningful way to fulfill high school volunteer hours while making a lasting impact in the community.
Guelph Youth Council Application
Guelph Youth Council Terms of Reference
National Youth Week
National Youth Week is from May 3-9, 2026! Join the Guelph Youth Council for fun and interactive events all week long! Events include:
- Wellness in the Park (RecEnroll code 76071)
- Light Side vs. Dark Side Social (RecEnroll code 75788)
- Cooking at the Grove (RecEnroll code 76084)
- Dungeons and Dragons (RecEnroll code 76075)
- Drop-in Basketball (RecEnroll code 71513)
- TedEX – Strength in our Stories (RecEnroll code 76079)
- Youth Art Showcase (RecEnroll code 76085)
For full program descriptions, and to register, click the link below.
For more information
Youth Services Coordinator
[email protected]
519-822-1260 extension 4283
Program information
Our programming philosophy
We believe that recreation and sport programs make an important contribution to the healthy development of children. In support of this, the City of Guelph Recreation Services is committed to providing a positive, caring environment where children of all ages and abilities can participate in fun-filled programs that promote physical activity, positive self-esteem, friendships, creativity and learning through play.
Our staff
Staff are selected for their enthusiasm, energy, experience working with children, knowledge of child development, and awareness of adapting programs for individuals with special needs.
Fee assistance for youth
The City of Guelph partners with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington to provide funding for children and youth to attend recreation programs, including registered programs, swimming lessons and camps. Confirmation of fee assistance must be secured before registering for City of Guelph programs. More information about fee assistance.