The Rocca Sisters Blog

The Victoria Day long weekend is upon us, and is widely celebrated as the first sign that summer is on its way! Canada has been celebrating the birthday of Queen Victoria since it was declared a holiday in 1845. Since 1957, Victoria Day was permanently appointed as the official day to celebrate the Queen’s birthday, and so Queen Elizabeth II is also celebrated on this day. There are endless opportunities to have some family fun around our community over the long weekend. Enjoy the beautiful Spring weather participating in one of the local outdoor activities available for all ages.

Visit your favorite farm animals or enjoy hiking along a nature trail at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. On Victoria Day, Bronte Provincial Park will be hosting their annual ‘Thyme on the Farm’ event where families can enjoy a multitude of Victorian games and activities, as well as tour a Victorian Farmhouse.

Another fantastic family outing is the Halton Hills Fireworks Festival – the longest running Victoria Day festival in all of Ontario. This fun festival is held all weekend long at the Milton Fairgrounds and includes a midway, petting zoo, demolition derby & so much more. Enjoy the spectacular professional firework display on Sunday evening at dusk.

We would like to remind everyone to use caution and proper safety measures this weekend if taking part in informal firework displays. Below is one of our family’s favorite summer recipes that we hope you will enjoy. From our family to yours, we wish you a safe and happy long weekend!

Balsamic Chicken Kabobs

* 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
* 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 2
* 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2
* 2 tbsp maple syrup
* 1 tbsp lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic , minced
* 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
* 1 sweet green pepper , cut into 1 inch (2.5 cm) pieces

Combine all ingredients & refrigerate for 4 hours. Place on skewers and grill on medium-high heat until fully cooked.
*www.canadianliving.com