Spring into Action
The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer, which means getting out and about the city is a great way to embrace all that spring has to offer. With that in mind, here are a few of our favourite local happenings guaranteed to put a smile on your winter-weary face.
Down By the Bay
One of Hamilton’s surest signs of spring is when a plethora of runners emerge to take part in the annual Around the Bay Race, the oldest road race in North America. Since its debut in 1894, the event has attracted many of the finest long-distance runners in the world, as well as many of your sporty neighbours, with everyone trying to see what they are made of – athletically speaking. Virtual races are still on the docket, but nothing compares to the thrill of an in-person race on the 5K and 30K routes, where the excitement generated from watching from the sidelines can give even the spectators a runners’ high. March 26 bayrace.com
Hop(s) Aboard the Brewery Bus
Support Hamilton’s craft beer scene while letting someone else do the driving on a guided tour by Redback Tours. Like the pub crawls of yesteryear, but with an elevated twist that’s easier on the feet, the monthly excursions, held in a luxury minibus, or van take guests on a five-hour outing to a selection of local breweries and cider houses. In addition to samples and snacks, participants will enjoy some behind-the-scenes intel into Hamilton’s brewing brewery industry. Have a bunch of thirsty friends and some time to spare? Redback also offers private tours for a memorable bonding experience – a great alternative to waiting in line for a brunch table. redbacktours.ca
Imbibing with Baby
A new parent can only push that stroller so far before they just need to sit down for a sec. When you’re ready to take a break, stroll on over to Grain and Grit brewery for a parent meetup that has more to do with building a community than it does beer. Already a parent- and baby-friendly space, Grain and Grit’s twice-weekly parent meetup events offer new parents a chance to enjoy a refreshment (beer optional) while venting, laughing and connecting with other folks who won’t give that crusty stain on your shirt a second thought. Tuesdays, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. and Thursdays 12 p.m.-2 p.m. grainandgritbeer.com
A Right Royal Run
If you’re looking for a new way to expand your road-racing repertoire this spring, be a trailblazer and sign up for the first annual Her Majesty’s Royal Races. With proceeds going towards the Army Cadet League, you’ll be helping support Hamilton’s youth while enjoying a heart-healthy day on the 3K and 5K routes, where both runners and walkers are welcome. Come for the race, but be sure to stay for the snack, where the royal theme continues. In addition to all registrants receiving their own Paddington Bear in their race kit, the post-event lunch features marmalade sandwiches and a wee spot of tea. April 23, Royal Hamilton Yacht Club raceroster.com
Spring Down to the Arboretum
The lengthening spring days means there’s more time to commune with nature on the regular, so be sure to allot some time to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens for its spring-themed family fun day. Gather your crew and join a guided nature walk for a close-up tour of the Arboretum, and see the magic created by the warmer days in the form of blooms, buds, and likely some bugs (be warned). The resident birds will be sure to provide an upbeat soundtrack as you wander the gardens, breathing in the unique feeling of hope a warm spring afternoon creates. April 22, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. rbg.ca
Tiny Dancers No More
When it comes to dance lessons, the kids shouldn’t have all the fun. Perfect your rhythm, up your fitness and have a ball as you learn tap dancing basics at Eleva8 Dance Studio’s classes for adults. As your feet learn how to shuffle, ball-heel, and then put the two moves together in the aptly named shuffle ball-heel, you’ll revel in the fact that the even sounds created by muddling through the moves sound kind of cool. Tapped out? Check out the website for other classes offered in hip hop, jazz and ballet. elev8danceinc.com
