As summer approaches and the days get longer – finally! – it’s the perfect time to celebrate and enjoy everything that the Hamilton-Burlington area has to offer. This month, we have two fantastic reasons to come together and have a blast: Father’s Day and Pride Month. Whether you’re looking for exciting activities to honour the father figures in your life or want to show your support for the LGBTQIA+ community, you’ll find something for everyone in your life to enjoy in June. Let’s dive right in to some of our team’s top picks for a little extra fun this month:

Fun Ways to Celebrate with Dad

Father’s Day is just around the corner (make sure you mark your calendars for June 18th), and it’s the perfect time to show your dad – or the special father figures in your life – how much he means to you. Luckily, the Hamilton-Burlington area is brimming with exciting events that will make this Father’s Day truly memorable. Whether your dad is an outdoor enthusiast, a fan of mysteries, or a music lover, we’re confident that you’ll be able to find a fun way to enjoy some bonding time with him. Join in the fun and create lasting memories together that he’ll cherish forever!

Sound of Music Festival (June 16-19)

The Sound of Music Festival is a must-attend event that coincides with Father’s Day weekend – if dad is a music lover you can’t miss it! Head to Spencer Smith Park and indulge in live performances by renowned artists – highlights of the lineup on Father’s Day include Crash Test Dummies, I Mother Earth, Chad Brownlee, and The Darcys. This festival offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy music, create memories, and celebrate Father’s Day in a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a weekend full of entertainment and fun for the entire family!

Father’s Day Car Show at West Highland Church (June 17th)

Take Dad to the West Highland Church’s Annual Father’s Day Car Show for a memorable day filled with classic cars, a free BBQ lunch, exciting prizes, and much more. This family-friendly event is sure to ignite Dad’s passion for automobiles as you spend some time checking out amazing autos – if he has a classic car of his own, he can even register to bring it along! 

Father’s Day at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market (June 17th)

Head to the Hamilton Farmers’ Market on Saturday, June 17th, for an unforgettable Father’s Day celebration. The Market has planned exciting activities and contests for the whole family. Get up close and personal with some scaled creatures during the interactive reptile shows hosted by Reptilia, test your luck with the “Guess the Number of Candies in the Jar” contest and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes, and don’t forget to participate in the raffle! Pick up some delicious local goods while there and cook up a fantastic feast later!

Murder Mystery at HMCS Haida (June 17th)

For a thrilling and interactive Father’s Day experience, embark on an evening of mystery and intrigue at HMCS Haida. Join the Murder Mystery and become a detective, searching for clues to solve a historical crime. Explore the ship and interview suspects in this classic “who done it?” style evening. Limited tickets are available – get yours ahead of time!

Go Fish! (June 17-18)

If your dad loves fishing, take advantage of the Ontario family fishing days on June 17th and 18th. This province-wide opportunity allows residents to fish Ontario’s waters without a license for the weekend. Explore some of the fantastic fishing spots in the Hamilton-Burlington area, such as Pier 8, LaSalle Marina, or Christie Lake Conservation Area. Don’t forget to follow the fishing regulations and limits!

Father’s Day Parent & Kids Dumpling Making Class @ Dawson’s Hot Sauce (June 18th)

Join local foodie Joyce of @joyceofcooking for an interactive and delicious experience at Dawson’s Hot Sauce. Learn how to make mouthwatering dumplings from scratch as she guides you through every step of the way. This hands-on class is a fantastic opportunity for parents and kids to bond while preparing a delightful meal together. Plus, you can take your creations home to cook and enjoy later!

The Godfather Father’s Day Screening at The Westdale (June 18th)

Make Father’s Day unforgettable by treating Dad to a screening of the iconic movie, “The Godfather” at The Westdale. Immerse yourselves in the world of cinema as you watch this all-time masterpiece on the big screen. It’s an offer dad won’t be able to refuse! 

Show Your Pride and Support

As Pride Month takes centre stage, the Hamilton-Burlington area is bursting with events that celebrate love, acceptance, and the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. Join in the festivities and show your support by attending a range of inclusive events designed to uplift spirits and create a sense of belonging. From dazzling drag shows to community gatherings and colourful parades, there’s an event for everyone to embrace their pride and stand up for equality. Experience the joy, energy, and inclusivity that fills the air during this special month at some of the area’s exciting events:

Celebrate Pride at The Well (June 17th)

On Saturday, June 17th, join in the festivities at The Well, a fundraiser for The AIDS Network. Experience a day filled with bingo, trivia, 50/50 draws, silent auctions, retro T-dance, drag performances, and inspiring guest speakers. It’s a joyous celebration of Pride, with all proceeds going toward supporting a very worthy cause.

Fruit Salad: Pride Edition (June 17th)

If you’re looking for a vibrant and inclusive hangout, Fruit Salad: Pride Edition is the place to be. Open to lesbians, 2SLGBTQIA+ women, and their friends at the Collective Arts Hamilton Beer Hall & Beer Garden, enjoy a fantastic evening with partial proceeds going towards supporting Speqtrum Hamilton, an organization that promotes LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and community. Let loose, dance, and celebrate the power of love and acceptance!

Pride Month Craft Cart at Hamilton Central Library (June 20th)

Let your creativity shine and show off your Pride by joining the Pride Month Craft Cart at Hamilton Central Library on June 20th. Bring the kids along and let their creativity run wild as they make something unique and expressive to celebrate the spirit of Pride (rainbow-themed supplies will be provided). 

Pride Weekend at Cedars Campground (June 23-24)

Extend your Pride celebrations to a full weekend of adventures at Cedars Campground. This event offers a range of activities, including a Friday Community Bonfire & Karaoke, a DJ-led Pride party on Saturday, and a relaxing Potluck in the Pavilion on Sunday. Connect with the community, dance to uplifting music, and enjoy the warm and inclusive atmosphere as you ring in summer!

Halton Pride Fest at Country Heritage Park (June 24th)

The Halton Pride Fest is an all-ages pride festival held on June 24th at Country Heritage Park. It offers a safe and accepting environment to show your pride, with a variety of activities to enjoy, including exciting drag performances, lawn games, face painting, music, a vendor market, and so much more. 

Ottawa Street Family Pride: Dance Party (June 24th)

On June 24th, head to Ottawa Market for the Ottawa Street Family Pride: Dance Party. This all-ages dance party is a chance to let loose and be yourself while dancing the night away. Dress in bright colours, enjoy the music, and create joyful memories – let your Pride shine through!

Trek Burlington Pride Ride (June 25th)

Join the Trek Burlington Pride Ride on June 25th at Trek Bicycle Burlington. This casual cruise is open to everyone who wants to celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community. Bring your family, friends, and neighbours for a joyful ride through the neighbourhood. Snacks, drinks, and free goodies will be provided – take a ride with friends and enjoy!

Whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day or showing your support during Pride Month – or just ready to get those summer vibes going –  there’s no shortage of engaging events and activities to enjoy. Embrace the vibrant spirit of this community, immerse yourself in cultural experiences, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. 

And while you’re here, why not consider making this vibrant area your new home? At Coldwell Banker Community Professionals, we can help you find the perfect place to create lasting memories. Get in touch today and let’s get started!

Welcome to May! The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and the city of Hamilton is brimming with exciting events and holidays. This month, we have two great opportunities to explore everything this area has to offer. First up is Mother’s Day weekend, and we’ve got some fantastic brunch options, high tea experiences, and more to help you treat the special ladies in your life. And with the Victoria Day long weekend just around the corner, it’s time to start getting ready for summer! Our team has put together a list of our favourite ways to enjoy the long weekend, from visiting feathered friends to watching a dazzling fireworks display.

Are you ready to enjoy all that Hamilton has to offer this May? Read on for all the fun you need to experience this month!

Treat Mom to Fun in Hamilton 

Mother’s Day is an important day to show your appreciation for the amazing women in your life who have taken this role on, and what better way to do that than by treating her to a special day out in Hamilton? Here are some of our team’s favourite ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in the city:

• Hamilton has a fantastic brunch scene ready to be explored – why not treat her to a delicious brunch at one of the city’s top restaurants? Notable brunches include Motel, Barangas on the Beach, Baci Ristorante, Radius, Victoria’s Steak and Seafood, Rapscallion & Co., and Fisticuffs. Be sure to make a reservation to avoid disappointment, as these popular spots fill up quickly! If you’re in the mood for a different kind of brunch, take her to Mother’s Day Drag Brunch, hosted by HAMMER Entertainment, and get ready to meet a whole different kind of mother!

• For a more traditional Mother’s Day celebration, a classic high tea experience is always a good idea! Hamilton has several venues that offer this elegant pastime, including Tea at the White House, The Duchess Tea Room hosted by The EARLS of GRAY, and Tea with You. If you want to take things up a notch, you can attend the Mother’s Day Tea: Historic Cooking Workshop at Dundurn Castle. During this workshop, you’ll work with Dundurn’s cooks to prepare nineteenth-century recipes next to the wood-fired range and learn more about tea traditions. The workshop also includes a cozy early afternoon tea in the historic kitchen.
• If your mom has a good sense of humour, consider taking her to a Mother’s Day comedy show! the Brew HA-HA Comedy Show (Mother’s Day Special) at Clifford Brewing and Moms, Mirth and Mimosas at Tracie’s Place Restaurant and Karaoke both feature a lineup of motherly comics and guarantee the laughs will be flowing!
• If she’s into something a little more indulgent, she’ll love attending a chocolate and cheese-tasting event. The Udder Way Artisan Cheese Company is hosting a Mother’s Day Chocolate & Cheese Tasting in collaboration with Madam Bonbon. Enjoy four artisan cheeses and four artisan chocolate bonbons in the beautiful shop while learning more about them and different ways to enjoy them! 
• If your mom loves to shop and eat, take her to the Lucky Lion Night Market’s Mother’s Day at the Bay at Bayfront Park. This event includes unique food vendors, merchants, entertainment, and interactive lion dancing all weekend long! 
• Looking for a hands-on experience? The Always Bee Mothers Day Charcuterie Workshop ticket includes an Always Bee wooden board, honey dipper, fine cheeses, charcuterie, and all additional accompaniments for creating the perfect board. You’ll learn how to put together a beautiful charcuterie board that you can enjoy afterwards.
• In case of rain, you can take your mother to visit the beautiful Gage Park Tropical Greenhouse. It’s a great place to enjoy the lush greenery and colourful flowers, and it’s free to visit. You can take a leisurely stroll through the different sections of the greenhouse and enjoy the sights and smells of the different plants. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to spend some quality time with your mom, rain or shine! 

A Packed Long Weekend in Hamilton to Kickoff Summer

Of course, after Mother’s Day comes even more fun – the Victoria Day (or May 2-4) long weekend! If you’re planning on sticking around Hamilton or coming in for a visit, there’s plenty to do to keep you entertained and help you kick off the summer season. Whether you’re a fan of gardening, outdoor events, or simply looking for a family activity, you’ll no doubt find lots of great options to pack your weekend full of fun!

• Start off the weekend by getting your yard ready for summer with a visit to one of the local garden centres such as Holland Park, Harper’s Garden Centre or Winona Gardens. You’ll find a wide variety of plants, flowers, and fresh-made arrangements to choose from. Not sure where to get started? All of these spots have knowledgeable staff who are ready to get you garden-ready!

• On Sunday evening (May 21st), head over to the beautiful Dundas Driving Park for the Victoria Day Fireworks, a free, family-friendly event presented by the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise and the City of Hamilton. Enjoy live music, face painting, and food trucks before the fireworks show at approximately 9:30 PM. Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs along and get there early to secure a great spot!
• For nature lovers, visit the Mountsberg Raptor Centre within Mountsberg Conservation Area. You’ll have a unique “nose-to-beak” experience with a variety of Ontario native birds of prey, including permanent residents unable to be released into the wild. This one is fun for the whole family – and the kids will love getting up close and personal with these incredible birds!
• If you’re looking for a cultural experience, visit the Concession Street BIA Sidewalk Sounds, which features local music and entertainment performances each Saturday from May through September starting on May 20th. Visit local businesses and grab a bite to eat as you enjoy great performances throughout the day.
• Celebrate World Bee Day with Humble Bee at the Hamilton Public Library Central Branch. Luc Peters will discuss the responsibilities of a beekeeper and how to make the world better for pollinators. You’ll learn all about the amazing things that these insects do and tips to support them!
• Take in a drive-in movie at Hamilton’s Starlite Drive-In. Pack the car for a cozy night and enjoy watching new releases under the stars. Make sure you arrive early to get settled in and find the perfect vantage point!

• Join in on the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride to raise funds and awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer research. This one-day event, taking place on May 21st, is a great way to give back while enjoying a motorcycle ride with other distinguished gents!
• Spots fans, we didn’t forget about you! Forge FC hosts Vancouver FC at Tim Hortons Field on May 19th. It will be a fun night full of cheer, excitement… And, hopefully, a win!

As you can see, Hamilton is buzzing with exciting events and activities to enjoy this spring. Whether you’re treating your mother to a special day or celebrating the unofficial start of summer with the Victoria Day long weekend, we know that you’ll find no shortage of fun to enjoy this month!

If you’re looking to make Hamilton your permanent home or considering a move to the area, our team of Coldwell Banker Community Professionals agents are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about the local real estate market and find your dream home in Hamilton or the surrounding area. Happy spring!

Spring has finally sprung! If you’re anything like us, you’re eager for the arrival of warmer, sunnier days, plants in full bloom, and the opportunity to spend more time exploring the beautiful areas around us. Easter is just around the corner, and it marks the transition from winter (knock on wood!) to springier days ahead. 

It’s time to hop into the spirit of the season with fun activities for you and your family to enjoy and we’re taking a look at the Halton Region this month, an area that is bursting with events and opportunities to create lasting memories. From photo ops with everyone’s favourite bunny to egg hunts and everything in between, here are some of the top Easter activities to enjoy in Halton this April:

Some-bunny to Love

Capture the magic of the Easter season with a photo of your little ones with the Easter bunny. The Burlington Centre and Oakville Place are hosting special Easter Bunny photo experiences until April 8th. Reservations are encouraged to ensure that your family has a chance to snap some special memories. This year, pet photos with the bunny are available too! Make sure to check out the Burlington Centre + Oakville Place websites for more information and to save your spot!

Get Hunting!

Get ready for an egg-citing adventure with egg hunts happening throughout Halton. Get outside and discover some new favourites in Downtown Oakville as you work your way through their digital egg hunt. Find the egg decals hidden in various shop windows for your chance to win gift cards! The contest closes on April 9th, so make sure to participate before it’s too late. 

If you’re looking for a more traditional egg hunt experience, there are a few great options to consider! Start the weekend off with an Easter Egg Hunt at Rivercroft’s Lakeshore location on Friday, April 7th where you’ll be able to look for eggs, warm up by the bonfire, and take home some Easter treats.

Duran Place for Kids will also be hosting an Easter Egg Hunt at Sovereign House in Oakville on Saturday, April 8th, with 4 different start times to choose from. Your kiddos will be able to hunt for eggs, exchange them for fun Easter treats, and even have a chance to meet our favourite bunny!

Amazing Adventures Indoor Playland & Parties in Oakville is also hosting an Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza throughout the weekend, taking place on Friday, Sunday, and Monday. Let the little ones work off some energy as they scour the indoor playland for the hundreds of eggs that have been hidden within! Make sure to register early to secure your spot.

Brunch is Always a Good Idea

One of our favourite parts of the Easter celebrations is indulging in a delicious brunch! We’ve rounded up some of the most popular options – keep in mind that these often fill up quickly or require reservations. Plan ahead and make sure that you’re covered!

Here are our top picks for Easter brunch in the area:

• Millcroft Golf Club is offering brunch at 11 am on Sunday, April 9th with a buffet-style meal including a fresh salad and seafood station, omelette station, charcuterie plank and more.
• Enjoy the sights of spring with brunch at the Royal Botanical Gardens, with two seatings available. Your ticket includes access to The Rock Garden, so plan to make a day out of it!
• Join Tyandega Golf Course on Sunday, April 9th for a delicious brunch menu that will be sure to please all the different appetites in your family – even the picky ones!

Other popular picks for Easter brunch include District Kitchen + Bar (who also have a great Good Friday fish special!), Spencer’s, Firehall, and Kerr Street Café. We recommend making reservations early so you can avoid disappointment – and make sure you enjoy all the Easter brunch deliciousness that you can handle!

Hello, Spring!

The Easter weekend is also a great time to enjoy some fun springtime activities as a family. The Halton Region is home to some beautiful parks and green spaces, like Spencer Smith Park, Bronte Creek Provincial Park, and Shell Park. Bring some snacks and get out to discover the new signs of life that have started to pop up!

This weekend also marks the opening of a local favourite – Springridge Farm! The family farm has so many great activities to enjoy, from meeting cute farm animals to exciting play spots. Make sure you stop by the bakery and barn market to pick up some treats to enjoy! 

As maple syrup season comes to an end, this is also a great time to discover Mountsberg Maple Town. Learn how a Canadian staple – maple syrup! – is made, explore various exhibits throughout the sugar bush, and take a fun wagon ride. Don’t forget to enjoy some pancakes with fresh maple syrup!

From egg hunts to bunny pictures and Easter parades, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy together! Make sure to plan ahead and don’t forget to bring your Easter spirit! It’s time to celebrate the season and explore all of the wonders in Halton, an amazing area that is full of excitement.

Happy Easter!

Are you looking for an exciting and welcoming place to explore in Ontario? If so, we’ve got the perfect suggestion for you: Downtown Hamilton! This vibrant area – the heart of the city – is full of activities that everyone can enjoy. From unique dining and shopping experiences to cultural events, live entertainment, and more – there’s something for everyone to experience. Come with us on a journey as we walk you through some of the amazing attractions that make downtown Hamilton an ideal destination for visitors young and old alike. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re returning after many years away, exploring downtown Hamilton will offer a never-ending adventure!

This vibrant area is one to watch and has been rapidly growing over the past few years; with accessible options to enter the housing and business market, there’s never been a better time to look into Downtown Hamilton as part of your future! If you’re ready to explore the area, we recommend doing so by foot – this is going to give you a chance to get up close and personal with everything the area has to offer.

Something for Everyone’s Taste Buds

Downtown Hamilton is a paradise for foodies. With an array of mouth-watering restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops to choose from, you’ll always find something to satisfy your cravings. From traditional eateries to international delights to trendy spots and everything in between, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or just want some quick takeout food during your lunch break, Downtown Hamilton has it all! Areas like Hess Village, King William Street, James Street (North + South) – and everything in between – are buzzing with great options to try out.

Coffee lovers, you’re in store for a treat. This area has become a haven for trendy coffee shops that are ready to whip you up a delicious cappuccino when you need a caffeine boost. Get your buzz at some of our favourite spots like Smalls, Steeltown Garage, Relay Coffee, Redchurch Café and Gallery and Andiamo. If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, you’ll find plenty of amazing spots to grab a casual bite to eat that will have you covered from breakfast to dinner… And then some! We love trying something new at local favourites like The Burnt Tongue, Hambrgr, The Mule, Earth to Table Bread Bar and Black Forest Inn (a long-time Hamilton staple). Don’t forget about Flora Pizzeria, Undefined, the new Electric Diner, Union Chicken, and Mystic Ramen… We could go on, but we’ll leave it up to you to unlock all of Downtown Hamilton’s secrets. Ask around when you visit a new spot and you’ll be sure to be directed to even more delicious must-try eats.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, Downtown Hamilton is once again going to provide you with lots of delicious options for a date night or celebration. You can’t go wrong with a visit to eateries like Rapscallion & Co., The French, Plank Resto Bar (one of Hamilton’s newest launches), Conversate Steak and Seafood, Radius, Secco, or Caro on James.

When you’re ready for a drink with friends or a wild night out, there’s even more to discover. Grab a cocktail or a craft beer at Merit Brewing, Bar Sazerac or Odds Bar (co-owned by Arkells frontman Max Kerman) and get ready to let loose at Bad and Boujee or Mansion.

One last recommendation that we can’t leave out – a visit to the Hamilton Farmers’ Market is something that you have to add to your list! Pick up all of the fresh ingredients you need from local vendors and grab a snack to enjoy while you shop; you’ll find some delicious options throughout the market like The Flyn G’Nosh, Pierogi Me!, and Café Baffico.

We’ve only hit the tip of the iceberg when it comes to unique – and flavourful – dining options for you and your family to enjoy. Start here and work your way through everything the downtown core has to offer!

Shop It Out

In addition to delectable dining options, Downtown Hamilton also has plenty of shopping opportunities. From unique boutiques offering one-of-a-kind items to larger stores with the latest trends and styles, this area is a haven for shoppers. Looking for something special or just want to browse around? Take a stroll and you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade jewelry and local art – all within walking distance! A few notable stops include LEN: Democratic Purveyors of Fine Art & Beautiful Things (where you’ll also find plenty of Hamilton gear to show your local pride), Dr. Disc, Pretty Grit, Reloved Boutique, Vintagesoulgeek, and Girl on the Wing. Of course, the area is also home to Jackson Square, an indoor shopping center with plenty of shops to choose from – and it’s connected to the Farmers’ Market!

A Little Art Goes A Long Way

From graffiti murals to street art and acclaimed pieces, there’s no shortage of amazing artwork on display in this vibrant part of town. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece to add to your home or just want to explore the city’s diverse culture through its artwork, Downtown Hamilton has plenty to see. Take a stroll through the area and admire the colourful murals painted by local artists – there are so many beautiful hidden pieces to discover (click here for a self-guided public art tour) – or visit one of the many galleries showcasing contemporary works. Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Art Gallery of Hamilton, which features stunning collections and rotating exhibits – the gallery is home to over 10,000 works of art! Other notable galleries in the area include Redchurch Café and Gallery, Hamilton Artists Inc., Centre[3], and The Assembly. 

If you’re into live music or theatre performances, there are plenty of venues around town where you can take in a show or two. Prepare to be entertained by shows at Levity Comedy Club, Theatre Aquarius, and First Ontario Centre, where world-class acts regularly perform. Don’t forget to catch some live music at local venues like Casbah, Bridgeworks, and Doors Pub, where you’ll regularly be able to listen to some great tunes throughout the week.      

What’s Going On?

Downtown Hamilton is home to a myriad of exciting events throughout the year. With something for everyone, you’re sure to find an event that suits your interests. If you’re into outdoor festivals and live performances or more low-key markets and celebrations, this area is always buzzing with activity. The Downtown Hamilton BIA is a great place to stay up-to-date with everything coming up in the area – bookmark this page and check in regularly to find out about special events to enjoy in the community!

Downtown Hamilton, Ontario is the perfect place to call home. With its delicious restaurants and unique shops, vibrant art scene and exciting events throughout the year, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for an amazing dining experience or some retail therapy with a local twist, downtown Hamilton has it all! Plus, living in this area gives you easy access to transportation links so you can explore everything else that Ontario has to offer. If you’re searching for your next destination in life then look no further than Downtown Hamilton – it’s sure to become a new favourite in no time!

We’re almost ready to put a wrap on 2022 but we can’t do that without first making it through the holiday season! Our Coldwell Banker team is feeling festive and ready to celebrate everything that this time of year has to offer. Of course, Hamilton plays host to so many different events and activities that will get you into the holiday spirit in no time and we’ve pulled together a list that Santa would be proud of. Get your friends and family together and set out to explore as you celebrate your way through the city!

Take in a Show

Looking for something a little more lowkey this season? Sit back, relax, and let the entertainers put on a show for you! Hamilton is abuzz with shows and concerts that you and your family will enjoy. Theatre Aquarius’ annual holiday show is always a hit – this year, “A Hamilton Holiday” brings the festive spirit to the stage with a “Hamilton-proud” cast sharing music and stories until December 24th. Another favourite, The Nutcracker returns to First Ontario Concert Hall on December 3rd. The holiday classic is the perfect way to kick things off! Other great performances include Elvis Jingle & Rock at Carmen’s Banquet Centre, Barenaked Ladies: Hometown Holidays at First Ontario Concert Hall and Holiday Dreams: A Spectacular Holiday Cirque at First Ontario Concert Hall, among many others!

Shop Small

There’s never been a better time to support local! Get all of your holiday shopping done and find unique gifts for everyone on your list at some of Hamilton’s best holiday markets – you’ll have plenty to check out at various venues from now until Christmas! Find the stocking stuffers they’ll love at Stuffed!, discover homemade goods from local makers and artisans at Craftadian, and check everyone off your list at the Holiday Night Market, featuring 20 local BIPOC and 2SLGBTQIA+ vendors. The 5th annual Christmas Market at Shawn & Ed Brewery is always a great time – enjoy a fresh pint while you browse goods from 35+ local vendors. No matter which market you visit – and there’s no shortage of them! – you’ll be sure to find one-of-a-kind gifts that they’ll be sure to love.

Making Spirits Bright

Of course, a little fun for the adults in December is always a must! This year, Hamilton has two festive bars for you and your friends to check out if you’re in the mood for some festive cocktails. First, Bad and Boujee has transformed into The Naughty List, a fun pop-up featuring drinks that you have to see to believe like the Winter Wonderland and Poinsettia Mojito. MaiPai Tiki Bar is also feeling the spirit – and the spirits – with their Sippin’ Santa popup. As you enjoy your holiday cocktails, you’ll also be happy to know that a dollar from every cocktail sold this season will be donated to the Hamilton Tiny Shelters pilot housing project, providing cabins for those experiencing homelessness in the community.

Celebrate Local

Want to check out different neighbourhoods while you get in the festive mood? There are lots of different events taking place that will give you the perfect opportunity to get out to explore, starting with A Dickens of a Christmas in Dundas. This event takes place on weekends leading up to Christmas, with activities like horse and trolley rides, carolers, hot apple cider, and breakfasts with Santa at local establishments for you to enjoy. Gore Park is one of the best spots to feel festive with the Christmas Tree of Hope taking centre stage for the season, turning downtown into a magical winter wonderland. While you stop by to check out the tree don’t forget to take a spin on the special umbrella ride that will be in place until December 11th.

Another local tradition that you’ll want to get in on? A Victorian Christmas at Dundurn Castle. Take a trip back in time during this magical experience as you see what Christmas was like in the 19th century. The castle will be transformed and decorated in Victorian splendour for you to enjoy.

The Reason for the Season

Of course, while we enjoy all of our celebrations this time of year, it’s also important to share this spirit with others. There are many ways to get involved and give back this year and we wanted to highlight a few ways that you can do so in our community:

• Help a child smile by donating a new, unwrapped gift (or making a monetary donation) to the CHCH Christmas Toy Drive and Operation Santa Clause Toy Truck. 
• Donate non-perishable food items to those in need at Hot Hands for Hope on December 10th at 1:00 pm at Gore Park. If you’re unable to make it, you can also donate non-perishable food items to organizations like Hamilton Food Share, Food4Kids, Neighbour 2 Neighbour, and Good Shepherd Centres. 
• The Children’s Fund is currently accepting donations via the Christmas Tree of Hope. These donations will be distributed to local organizations in Hamilton and Burlington.

No matter what you’re celebrating or who you’ll be celebrating with, we hope that you enjoy a fun and safe festive season. From our Coldwell Banker family to yours, we’re wishing you the happiest of holidays and all the best for the new year.

See you in 2023!