It’s that time of the year, when we celebrate all things youth. May 1 to 7 is National Youth Week and the City of Mississauga will be joining celebrations across the country with a focus on youth-led activities.

There are free activities happening all week targeting youth aged 12 to 18 years-old. Check out a spring cooking class, learn archery, try out yoga or take part in a giant game of Connect Four or Jenga. Many activities are organized by youth for youth. Follow on social media using the hashtag #NYW905.

Highlights of National Youth Week Activities:

The Amazing Library Race – Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

· At each library location, students will complete skill-testing challenges

· Participants will travel on MiWay to visit as many of the City’s 18 library locations as possible between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

· Points will be awarded for completing the challenges. Bonus points will be awarded for distance travelled and completion of more difficult tasks

· The grand finale is at the Central Library at 3 p.m., participants can gain extra points for their knowledge of Mississauga

· Snacks will be provided at the final stop at the Central Library

· Youth can register for free in person at any City library

Battle of the Centres Basketball Tournament – Sunday, May 5, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

· Full-day tournament held at University of Toronto Mississauga Campus in the Recreation Athletics & Wellness Building located at 1825 Outer Circle [map]

· Each Community Centre will send a team of 12 novice and advanced players who participate in the City’s Sauga At Play after-school drop-in program

· Showcasing talented youth who participate in the City’s Sauga At Play after-school drop-in program

· The tournament will be round robin style with an “all-star” experience complete with a live local disc-jockey, ping pong tables, games, refreshments

Temporary Public Art: Mural Unveiling – Tuesday, May 7, 4 – 6 p.m.

· Held at the Sculpture Court Skate Park, Civic Centre, located at the southwest corner of Duke of York Boulevard and Princess Royal Drive [map]

· Nine emerging Mississauga artists will work alongside Canadian artist-athlete, Mango Peeler to unveil a series of new murals inspired by the poetry of Mississauga’s Youth Poet Laureate, Pujita Verma

· A collaboration between the City’s Culture and Recreation Division, there will be a mash-up of youth music, visual arts, poetry and athletics

· Skateboard while listening to live music and poetry readings, and meet some of Mississauga’s up and coming artists

Check out the full list of events during National Youth Week by visiting here.