THINGS TO DO IN HAMILTON, BURLINGTON

If you have an event happening in Hamilton and Burlington you would like to see listed here, email HCM editor Meredith MacLeod at meredith@hamiltoncitymagazine.ca.

HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

Hamilton Day
It will be the spooky Halloween edition of Hamilton Day this year. Hamilton Day is your chance to celebrate the city we love. Bursting with local pride, it’s the ultimate weekend to enjoy live entertainment, explore the city, and shop exclusive weekend deals while supporting small businesses. Hamilton Day is all about one thing: spreading that local love. Join thousands of Hamiltonians and visitors for a weekend of shopping, dining, and entertainment across the city. With over 1,000 participating shops, pop-up markets, tours, concerts, and more, it’s the perfect time to experience and explore what Hamilton’s small business community has to offer. Every purchase counts. Every meal out matters. When you shop/support local you’re not just buying into something — you’re fuelling Hamilton’s culture, creativity, and community spirit. Hamilton Day is our chance to lift up the businesses that make our city shine.Hamilton Day weekend begins with kick-off activities on Thursday, Oct. 29, followed by a full weekend of programming on Saturday, Oct. 31, and Sunday, Nov. 1. Don’t miss the concerts, markets, tours, and family-friendly fun happening in every corner of Hamilton. Plan your local-loving adventure and join the fun the first weekend in November. The full schedule is here. Oct. 29 to Nov. 1, all across the city

SEE OUR HAMILTON DAY PREVIEW STORY HERE!

Sinfonia Ancaster
The four-concert series that is Sinfonia Ancaster's 2026-2027 season begins with Shadows and Spirits, an atmospheric evening led by guest conductor Daniel Warren. The eerie power of Mussorgsky’s "Night on Bald Mountain," the dramatic intensity of Berlioz’s "March to the Scaffold," and the soaring wonder of John William’s selections from E.T., and Edvard Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King", and much more! Hallowe’en costumes are encouraged – add your own touch of flair to this exhilarating and memorable evening! Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. Up next is Home for the Holidays, featuring family favourites, sing-alongs and the Jazz Connection Big Band's performance of Duke Ellington’s swing-infused "Nutcracker Suite." Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. There is also a shortened, one-hour family-friendly version of the concert on Dec. 5, 2 p.m. Next up is Brilliance Reflected. This concert turns the spotlight on four winners from Sinfonia Ancaster's inaugural concerto competition, jointly created by the Hamilton Music Festival and Sinfonia Ancaster. The orchestra joins our young soloists in performances of music by J.C. Bach, Haydn, Mozart and Tchaikovsky. This celebratory evening also features the glittering and evocative colours of Kodály’s Háry János Suite. March 5, 7:30 p.m. Rounding out the season is Command Performance. The lean and energetic "Symphony No. 3" of Sibelius sets the stage for Juno Award-winning pianist Philip Chiu’s performance of Beethoven’s triumphant "Emperor Concerto." May 7, 7:30 p.m. All tickets are here. Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

Halloween Spooktacular
The Downtown Hamilton BIA’s Halloween Spooktacular is set to return to Gore Park. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to start Halloween weekend. The event features carnival rides, face painting, magic, music, pumpkin decorating, and giveaways. New additions for 2026 include an inflatable corn maze, a Super Mario-themed funhouse, performances from the Hamilton Aerial Group, and comedic duo Captain Greed and first mate Phineus. Attendees will get to meet and pose for a photo with Cinderella, Super Mario, Superman and Hello Kitty. More information is here. Friday, Oct. 30, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Gore Park

Crown and Press
Art and music lovers, Crown and Press opens its brand-new exhibition celebrating art inspired by song. Have you ever wondered what a landscape inspired by an Ella Fitzgerald song would look like? What about an abstract painting inspired by one of The Doors greatest hits? Starting Oct. 30, you get to experience a curated collection of songs in art form. Titles will feature 24 artists from Crown and Press, and a collection of new works each titled after the songs that inspired them. On Friday, Oct. 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., stop by to speak with artists Julia Veenstra, Brenda McCafferty, Sandra Manzi, and woodturning artist, Rick Veenstra about their pieces in the show. The exhibition will conclude with a closing party on Nov. 27, and you're invited to join a final evening to take in the incredible art, conversate over food and drinks, and hear from the artists themselves about the music that moved them. The closing party is in partnership with the Maquette Art Fair (Nov. 20 – Dec. 4), and RSVP tickets will be available starting Nov. 1. Crown and Press, 303 Ottawa St. N., Hamilton

FrightCrawl Hamilton
A bar crawl dressed up in costume on Halloween weekend? 800 revellers are expected to take part in FrightCrawl on Friday and Saturday. On Friday, check in at Toby’s Good Eats, then head to Electric Diner, Bar Sazerac, Escape Manor, Brothers Grimm Bistro, Andthenyou, The Grand Hamilton, the Dirty Dog Saloon / Cat & Fiddle / Lobby Hamilton (finale). On Saturday, it’s Toby's Good Eats (check-in), Bar Sazerac, Escape Manor, Brothers Grimm Bistro, The Judge and the Dirty Dog Saloon / Cat & Fiddle (finale). All the info and tickets are here. Oct. 30-31, starting at 7:30 p.m. Toby’s Good Eats, 110 King St. W.

On at the Hamilton Prop House
The final event at the Hamilton Prop House at its Barton Street location is Girls Night Out witches style. Cocktails, grazing plates and HOCUS POCUS aboard the train! Tickets here. Friday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m., Hamilton Prop House, 422 Barton St. E., Hamilton

On at Revival Art Store
Get your Halloween on at Devil's Night costume party. Costumes are mandatory. Prizes will be given for funniest, most terrifying, most creative, and most WTF costumes. Free tarot readings. Tickets here. Friday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Revival Art Store, 1165 Cannon St. E., Hamilton

Halloween in the lanes
Splitsville Bowl Hamilton is hosting its Bowloween Party, a family-friendly Halloween celebration filled with costumes, games and spooky fun for little ghouls and goblins. Families can enjoy festive activities including a treasure hunt, colouring stations, treats and a kids' costume contest, with a chance to win a future bowling outing for up to six guests. It's a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit while leaving plenty of time for traditional trick-or-treating in the evening. Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For those looking to keep the festivities going after dark, Splitsville is also offering a special Halloween All You Can Bowl experience from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Splitsville Bowl Hamilton, 1525 Stone Church Rd. E.

Ghost Walks
What better way to mark Halloween than with some spooky, spine-tingling stories on local tours? Ghost walks are happening at Dundurn Castle and in Dundas, downtown Hamilton, and the Hermitage Ruins. Check out the schedule here.

On at Good Nerd Gallery
Just in time for Halloween, Toronto-based artist, illustrator and author Sid Sharp brings their strange, funny and atmospheric world to Good Nerd Gallery in Hamilton with Garden Ghouls. The exhibition features original illustrations from Sharp’s acclaimed books The Wolf Suit, Bog Myrtle and the newly released Midnight Manor, published by Annick Press, offering visitors a rare chance to experience the intricate textures, folklore, dark fairy tales and mysterious creatures behind the books. The exhibition will also feature a limited-edition print, Sharp’s books and special Halloween programming, making Garden Ghouls a spooky, playful and family-friendly experience for art lovers, readers and curious little weirdos. Until Nov. 15, 138 James St. N.

Root for the home team
The AHL Hamilton Hammers next play the Hartford Wolf Pack on Thursday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m. and the Syracuse Crunch on Friday, Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. Learn more about season tickets, packages and single-game tickets here. TD Coliseum, 101 York Blvd., Hamilton. The Toronto Rock begin their season against the San Diego Seals on Saturday, Nov. 28, 7 p.m., and then take on the Saskatchewan Rush, Friday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m., TD Coliseum, 101 York Blvd., Hamilton

On at Playhouse Cinema
On the big screen: You Can See Everything, daily showtimes until Nov. 5; the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show (in memory of Tim Curry), Oct. 29 and 31 Then there is Wicker, until Nov. 5; The Exorcist on 35mm (The Version You've Never Seen Before), Oct. 27 and 31. Vampyr, with a live score, will be shown Oct. 29; The Fly on 35mm on Oct. 30 and Nov. 2, Fjord, opening Oct. 30 and Horror of Dracula, Nov. 1 and 4; Naza: A Window into Systems of Mass Killing, Nov, 1, 2, and 3; The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, opening Nov. 6; Rocky (50th anniversary!), Nov. 6 and 10. See Waterwalker, a National Film Board movie by canoeist, environmentalist, painter and filmmaker Bill Mason, on its 40th anniversary. It’s a salute, shot over eight years, to the beauty of Canadian wilderness and a plea to protect it. The screening will be followed by a Q&A by accomplished canoeist, artist & conservationist Becky Mason, along with renowned canoeist and passionate environmentalist, writer and speaker & Bill Mason biographer James Raffan (Fire in the Bones), Nov. 13, 7 p.m. The 20th anniversary of Reel Rock, a four-film mini-festival dedicated to mountain-climbing, is happening Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m. There is much more! A complete movie and event calendar is here. Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

On at The Westdale
The Rocky Horror Picture Show - special screening in tribute to Tim Curry. (1946-2026), Friday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 31, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 1, 4 p.m.; Silence of the Lambs, Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and 4; Beetlejuice, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1; You Are the Film (part of The Way of the Sword Film Talks series), Thursday, Nov. 5, 7 p.m.; Josie and the Pussycats, Thursday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m. And don't miss a one-night-only Heated Rivalry marathon of the first season's six episodes on Nov. 10! See the complete Westdale Theatre calendar and ticket links here. The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Digital Canaries set sale
Step inside the Digital Canaries warehouse and explore thousands of incredible pieces rescued from film and television productions. From vintage furniture and artwork to lighting, décor, textiles, kitchenware, and one-of-a-kind treasures, every visit is a new adventure. Trucks arrive weekly, so there's always fresh inventory waiting to be discovered. Whether you're furnishing your home, searching for your next DIY project, decorating a dorm room, sourcing for your business, or simply love the thrill of finding something unexpected, you'll find inspiration around every corner. More than a sale, this is sustainability in action. Every item rehomed is another piece diverted from landfill and given a new story to tell. Reserve a spot here. Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 243 Queen St. N., Hamilton

Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Upcoming at the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre is Halloween Hauntings presented by Toronto's Odin Quartet. The first half will move through horror's many shades, from monsters and slashers to hauntings, demons and Disney's darker corners, with music from Pan's Labyrinth, Halloween, Candyman, Beetlejuice, The Exorcist, The Omen, Cube and The Nightmare Before Christmas, all arranged for strings. After intermission, special guest star Julian Richings takes the stage. Best known to horror fans for Cube, Wrong Turn and The Witch, and for playing Death on Supernatural, Richings narrates a full retelling of Psycho while the quartet plays Bernard Herrmann's famous cues from the film beneath him. Next up is Epic Eagles, one of North America's top-drawing tribute acts closes out October with Eagles classics and Don Henley favourites: “Hotel California,” “Desperado,” “Life in the Fast Lane” and “The Boys of Summer,” Saturday, Oct. 31, 7:30 p.m. And don't forget to get your tickets for Matthew Good's concert on Nov. 2. Pearl: A Janis Joplin Experience arrives Friday, Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. Holly Cole's Swinging Christmas is happening Monday, Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m. The Barra MacNeils: An East Coast Christmas, Friday, Dec. 11, sees the five MacNeil siblings bring their Cape Breton Christmas to Peller Hall, trading fiddle, accordion, Celtic harp and tight family harmonies through ceilidh favourites, Gaelic ballads and foot-stomping instrumentals. Steve Michaels is back with The Wonderful World of Christmas, a full-band holiday set built around Elvis Presley's famous Christmas catalogue. Michaels won the Images of Elvis World Competition in Memphis in 2001 and has spent more than 25 years performing across North America, the U.K., Asia and Australia, including shows alongside members of Elvis's own bands. Tuesday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m. Soulful singer-songwriter Matt Andersen: The Hammer & The Rose Tour will hit the stage Wednesday, Feb. 24. Roots-reggae band Big Sugar will play a two-set show, honouring the 30th anniversary of iEarthlings!, plus songs from the band's first new album in seven years, Saturday, March 13. A full list of shows and tickets are here. Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN

On at Mills Hardware and Bridgeworks
On at Mills Hardware: Adam Baldwin, Oct. 29; Hamilton Day Concert Series: Eyes Like Static, Oct. 30; Jesse Roper, Oct. 31; and Tune In Foundation Blueprint Program + Fresh Up Showcases, Nov. 1; Galactic Empire + Spectra, Nov. 3; Lazarettes + Ron Hawkins + FemBots, Nov. 5; Sean Bienhaus + Abby Rose + Luiz Grante, Nov. 6; Chase the Bear, Nov. 10; ARK IDENTITY + Katie Mal, Nov. 11; Lucas Mason + Owen MacDonald, Nov. 12; Garçons & Kyle Wildfern, Nov. 13; Doom Scroll + The You & Me's, Nov. 18; Sam Polley and The Old Tomorrows, Nov. 20; Carrie Clark + Astrid Young, album release party, Nov. 21; Jacob River Milnes + Kip James, Nov. 22; Janky Bungag, Nov. 24; Virgo Rising + Small Orbit + Ava Hickey, Nov,. 25; Truck Violence, Nov. 26; Devin Cuddy Band, Nov. 27; Keegan Powell & The Jetpacks + Peter van Helvoort, Nov. 29; Michael Bernard Fitzgerald, Dec. 1; Fionn + Sam Casey, Dec. 3; Chore + The Fledge + Quotas, Dec. 4; Chore + Neon Cowboy + Matthew Fleming, Dec. 5; Rebels of Rage (Rage Against the Machine tribute), Dec. 12; Jordan Hart + Emily Schultz, Dec. 19. Tickets and information for all shows are here.

On at Bridgeworks: Hamilton Day Concert Series: An evening with Bob Ezrin & Dennis Dunaway, Oct. 29; Fruit Salad, Oct. 30; and Halloween Battle of the Bands, Oct. 31; The East Pointers, Nov. 6; Tommy Youngsteen: Crown Lands + Dreamland, Nov. 12; Alan Cross Presents Uncharted: Live in Hamilton, Nov. 13; Fleetwood Mac Rumours, Nov. 14; Too Many Zooz: Live in Canada (Mostly!) Tour, Nov. 15; Shit-Faced Shakespeare, Nov. 16; UK Calling, Nov. 20; Wannabe: A Spice Girls Tribute, Nov, 21; Austra, Nov. 28; Hawksley Workman (at The Westdale), Dec. 16; Born in the Eighties, Dec. 18 and 19; Tebey + Josh Stumpf, Feb. 14; Howdytoons, April 25, 2 p.m. Tickets and information for all shows are here.

On at FirstOntario Concert Hall
(Studio) Travelling Wilbury's Tribute, Oct. 31, 8 p.m. Owen Riegling, Nov. 1; Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening (JBLZE), Nov. 24; Amanda Marshall, Dec. 3; Jim Jefferies, Dec. 19; Sesame Street Live – Elmo's Got the Moves, Jan. 23; Be Like Blippi Tour, Feb. 24. Tickets here. 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton

On at TD Coliseum
Disney Descendants, Zombies & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour, Oct. 31, 7 p.m.; XG, Nov. 12; Il Volo World Tour, Nov. 21, 8 p.m. (only Canadian date announced so far); Garth Brooks, Dec. 4 and 5 (tickets on sale Nov. 6) Wang Leehom, Dec. 9 (tickets on sale Sept. 2, 10 a.m.); Andrea Bocelli, Dec. 19, 8 p.m.; Hilary Duff, Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Harlem Globetrotters, Feb. 3; Hans Zimmer Live, March 2, 7:30 p.m.; Disney on Ice – Spotlight Magic, March 11-14; Nickelback, March 20; Monster Jam, April 2-4; Calvin Harris, April 17. Tickets here. 101 York Blvd., Hamilton

AGH exhibitions
Open throughout 2026, Camille Turner: Hometown Queen is the first major retrospective of the Hamilton-born artist's nearly 30-year career, while Made in Hamilton: The Glen Faulman Collection showcases Hamilton-made goods and ephemera spanning the city's manufacturing history. Raised in Hamilton and now living internationally, Turner has developed a remarkable body of work in performance, installation, photography, video, and sculpture. Her practice powerfully addresses racial and social politics, offering a critical analysis of the enduring systems of oppression in Canada and abroad. The retrospective premieres Worthy, a new immersive multi-media installation. This work explores her father's childhood experience of growing up on the grounds of one of Jamaica's most prestigious businesses, which emerged from what was formerly a slave plantation. Worthy illuminates the enduring impact of slavery across geographies and generations, positioned through her father's vital voice in this living history. Turner's work confronts histories marked by erasure, deliberate burying, and systemic silencing, and yet she actively forges a hopeful path forward. She creates spaces of contemplation and imaginative possibility, inviting reflection on what might emerge—for herself, for her father and family, and for generations still to come. Made in Hamilton: The Glen Faulman Collection tells a story of Hamilton's history when industry was a spectacle, and civic identity was indelibly tied to a culture of making. Guest curated by Tor Lukasik-Foss, Made in Hamilton features the collection of third-generation Stelco worker Glen Faulman. Faulman has devoted over two decades to collecting a range of Hamilton-made goods and ephemera from all stages of its manufacturing history. This exhibition reflects on an era when Hamilton was home to many manufacturing industries and hosted expositions that drew enormous crowds throughout the first half of the 20th century. In 1913, Hamilton hosted a Great Industrial Exposition of Exclusively Made-In-Hamilton Products, a five-day event that demonstrated the city's reputation as "the foremost per capita producer of manufactured goods" in Canada. Made in Hamilton presents Faulman's remarkable collection in a way that evokes the spirit of the city's bygone industrial exhibitions. The exhibition will feature three rooms filled with hundreds of objects, archival materials, and even a 1951 Studebaker Champion automobile situated right in the middle of the exhibition. Special events include Camille Turner Artist Talk, Thursday, Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m., Objects and Stories with Workers Arts and Heritage Centre (WAHC), Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 p.m. More information is here. Art Gallery of Hamilton, 123 King St. W., Hamilton

Carnegie Gallery
The first of two new exhibitions at Carnegie Gallery is Illuminations by Teresa Seaton, Lorraine Roy, Michele Van Murik, and Nikola Wojewoda. The four artists engaged in this exhibition have been on their own personal journeys through nature for their entire artistic careers. They plan a representation, interpretation, and imagination of the symbiotic and sentient life of nature, both above and below the ground. The exhibition represents four different mediums: glass by Seaton, textiles by Roy; paint by Michele Van Maurik; and clay assemblage by Wojewoda. The next exhibit is The Shape of Movement by Gillian E. Batcher, Robin Cassady-Cain, Hyewon Jang, Alexis Kostuk, Edna Milevsky, Jamie Rosario, Aurora Simmons, MinSeo Whee, Brianna Wong and Yuna Zhang. The Shape of Movement is a group exhibition with 10 goldsmiths based out of Jewel Envy, a shared studio space in Toronto’s west end. With diverse cultural backgrounds, artistic training, and individual practices, the artists have come together to collectively explore movement as a concept interpreted through the forms created in functional jewellery. Until Nov. 8, Carnegie Gallery, 10 King St., W., Dundas

To Hold the Light
VERO Gallery's latest public exhibition, featuring the works of Lesia Mokrycke, Mya Naidoo, and Jennifer Carson. The exhibition runs until Nov. 15. VERO Gallery Café, 659 Barton St. E., Hamilton

HAPPENING NEXT WEEK

Open Studio
Theatre Aquarius and Open Heart Arts Theatre have announced the launch of Open Studio, a new weekly community arts initiative created in partnership with its 2026–27 company-in-residence, Open Heart Arts Theatre, and Keeping Six Hamilton. Open Studio will transform the Theatre Aquarius lobby into a dedicated weekly creative hub. The free community program invites people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity to gather, create, and connect through artist-led workshops facilitated by Open Heart Arts Theatre in collaboration with Keeping Six Hamilton. Running throughout the fall, winter and spring, Open Studio offers participants the opportunity to explore a range of artistic practices, build creative skills, and develop original work alongside professional artists and mentors. Participating artists include Hilary Predko (sculpture), Treasa Levasseur (music), Fareh Malik (spoken word and movement), Jody Boston (improv), and Tommy Taylor (storytelling). The season will culminate in a public showcase at Theatre Aquarius, celebrating the work created throughout the year. Open Studio is a cornerstone of Theatre Aquarius' ongoing commitment to community engagement and reflects the organization's belief that theatre should be a place where everyone feels welcome. Open Studio is free and drop-in. No registration is required. Participants are welcome to join at any point during the program. The schedule: Until Dec. 21, Mondays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.; Jan. 5 to June 15, Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

Good Shepherd Advent calendar
2026 Advent calendars are officially on sale and this year, they are entirely virtual. Good Shepherd's Advent Calendar fundraiser is a calendar lottery that gives you the opportunity to win prizes throughout the month of December. Prizes include gift cards, experiences, overnight stays, and event tickets. Your Advent calendar is delivered to you immediately by email and more of your purchase directly supports Good Shepherd’s Youth Services by reducing printing, packaging and shipping costs. Calendar sales close Nov. 30 at 11:59 p.m. Each day starting Dec. 1 there are two prizes to be won, with the exception of Dec. 24, which has one grand prize (Sponsored by H. Williams Jewellery). Calendars are available here.

Burlington Festival of Lights
The Burlington Lions Club is adding a 30–35-foot signature tree to this year's Burlington Festival of Lights, giving the festival a new focal point in Spencer Smith Park and inviting residents to bring the lights to their own neighbourhoods through Burlington's Brightest Lights Tour. The tree will be the centrepiece of the park's display. The festival's glow is also reaching further this year, with the Lions Club working with partners like the Aldershot Village Business Improvement Area to bring lighting to other parts of the city. Burlington's Brightest Lights Tour invites residents to decorate their homes and apply to be an official stop on an interactive map of lighting locations. Homeowners who take part will be showcased as one of Burlington's lighting locations, and one will be crowned Burlington's Brightest along with a $1,000 prize package. Residents and visitors alike will be able to check in at Burlington lighting locations for a chance to win weekly prizes throughout the festival season. The additions are part of a multi-year plan by the Lions Club, which took over the festival in 2025, to evolve the Festival of Lights as it marks its 31st year. The festival runs Nov. 27 to Jan. 3, beginning with the tree lighting at Spencer Smith Park on Nov. 27. Residents are encouraged to apply to be an official stop on the tour by visiting burlingtonfestivaloflights.com before the application deadline of Oct. 31.

HAPPENING IN NOVEMBER AND BEYOND

Performing Arts Sunday Series
HCA Society opens its five-concert 2026-2027 Performing Arts Sunday Series (PASS) season with a performance by the Zemlinsky Quartet, one of the most decorated string quartets to come out of the Czech chamber music tradition in the last three decades. Formed in Prague in 1994, the quartet took the First Grand Prize at the Bordeaux International String Quartet Competition in 2010 and has placed at the Banff, Prague Spring, and London International competitions. Since 2016, it has held the position of resident ensemble with the Czech Chamber Music Society. The quartet performs regularly at the Prague Spring Festival and has toured to London, Paris, Washington, and Seoul, and this fall, that circuit runs through downtown Hamilton. The program includes Franz Xaver Richter's String Quartet in C Major, Beethoven's String Quartet in F Major, and Leoš Janáček's Intimate Letters. Tickets are here. Sunday, Nov. 1, 3 p.m. The season continues with the Glenn Paul Trio's A Charlie Brown Christmas (Dec. 6), pianist Valerie Tryon (Feb. 14), pianist David Jalbert (March 14), and choral ensemble That Choir (April 11). Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts, 126 James St. S., Hamilton

AGH art+music+food Festival
The AGH ART+MUSIC+FOOD Festival is five days of art, culture and community, shaped by the people who make Hamilton a creative place to be. Artists, makers and local organizations will come together to bring the gallery to life. Take part in collaborative projects, experience live performances, and discover something new through film, fashion and food. There’s something here for everyone, including a hands-on artmaking experience that grows through the contributions of festival visitors. Create your own cyanotype artwork, then see it become part of Memory of the Makers, an evolving large-scale wall weaving built collectively over the course of the festival. A Super Choir will bring singers and musical communities from across the city together for a joyful celebration of the human voice. Super Choir is completely free to attend, and admission to the Art Gallery of Hamilton is also free for the evening. There will be a paper forest, weaving of a paper quilt, and Nocturne, an immersive after-hours experience that transforms the Gallery through live performances by aerialists, dancers, theatrical characters and musicians. There is so much more and it’s all here! Nov. 4-8, Art Gallery of Hamilton, 123 King St. W., Hamilton

gritLIT
The next gritLIT event is Lucy Foley, the bestselling author of Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel, in conversation with Uzma Jalaluddin, author of Detective Aunty, Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m., Hamilton Public Library, Central Branch, 55 York Boul.

The Linda Ronstadt Show
Burlington-based singer and performer Karen Coughlin brings her production The Linda Ronstadt Show starring Karen Coughlin to The Westdale Theatre. The show is a full theatrical/docu-concert production — combining Linda Ronstadt’s music with storytelling, costume changes, a live band, and the story behind the music. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Parkinson's Canada. Tickets are here. Saturday, Nov. 7, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Clue
Based on the iconic board game and classic film, Clue is a fast-paced, hilarious murder mystery. When six mysterious guests gather at a secluded mansion on a dark and stormy night, murder is on the menu. With everyone hiding secrets and the body count rising, they must discover who did it, where—and with what! Sandy Rustin's stage adaptation of the cult-classic 1985 film keeps everything fans love, from Wadsworth the butler to the candlestick and the slamming doors, and plays it at full comic speed. Hamilton's Big Hearts Little Theatre brings it to the Voortman Studio with director Michael Hannigan, a former artistic associate at Hamilton's Tivoli and Citadel theatres, and a cast of familiar faces from the local theatre scene. Tickets here. Six performances from Saturday, Nov. 7 to Sunday, Nov. 15. Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

HAALSA lecture
It's the custom for orchestral conductors to travel frequently, splitting their time among communities and conducting various guest performances as they grow in experience and reputation. James Kahane, music director of the Hamilton Phil, is in demand in Europe as well as in Canada (and elsewhere), yet has made a commitment and deepened ties to our community since the start of his tenure with the orchestra about two years ago. He's getting to know Hamilton and has ideas about his place in bringing music to everyone. HAALSA is pleased to offer this opportunity to become acquainted with him and his role as a conductor and music director. These lectures are free and no registration is required. Saturday, Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m., Rm. 1A1, Ewart Angus Centre, McMaster University Medical Centre, (NW corner of the children's hospital bldg)

Caroline Marie Brooks
Contemporary folk artist Caroline Marie Brooks will share her sophomore album Light and Matter at a show in Dundas in a lovely old barn turned concert hall. She is one-third of Canadian folk trio Good Lovelies, which turns 20 this year. She made this record with her longtime friends and collaborators Joshua Van Tassel and Dean Drouillard over five days in Nova Scotia, in a studio among the trees. She’ll perform a matinee show alongside Colour Film. Tickets are here. Sunday, Nov. 8, 2 p.m., The Hayloft (address will be emailed to ticket buyers.)

Clay Play
They say that idle hands are the devil’s workshop, so play it safe for the short term by taking an intensive (but not intense) ceramics class at Hamilton Craft Studios. In the six-week, beginner-friendly course, students will learn all aspects of the craft, from wheel throwing, hand building, trimming, decorating, and glazing so that the resulting masterpieces will have your fingerprints all over them. Drop-in studio time is also included at the community space for extracurricular keeners, ensuring that those paws stay busy. More information is here. Nov. 9 – Dec.14, 121 Princess St., Hamilton

Kinderfest
Kinderfest continues with the Carousel Players’ Where the Wild Things Are. Jump in and help Max transform his bedroom into an exotic jungle, then transport yourself to where the Wild Things are. After being crowned king of these magical creatures, Max must make a decision: stay and rule the Wild Things or return home. Based on the timeless children’s book, Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, this interactive adventure is filled with guided play. Together, young ones and their adults can join the wild ride. Nov. 10, 10 a.m., Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts, Black Box Theatre, 126 James St. S., Hamilton

Hamilton Originals In Support of The Westdale
It will be an uplifting evening of iconic music as acclaimed singer-songwriter Jacob Moon and special guests revisit the songs of two legendary rock icons: Tom Petty and Don Henley. With his signature voice, masterful guitar work, and heartfelt storytelling, Moon will breathe new life into classic hits like “Free Fallin’,” “The Boys of Summer,” “American Girl,” and “The End of the Innocence.” Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these anthems for the first time, this is a unique celebration of timeless music you won’t want to miss. Every ticket supports Westdale’s One in a Million campaign. Tickets are here. Friday, Nov. 13, 8 p.m., 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Art Crawl
Art Crawl is a monthly party in downtown Hamilton. Held the second Friday of every month, galleries, studios, stores, restaurants, and bars stay open late to welcome thousands of visitors who fill James Street North and adjacent streets. Vendors and visitors start arriving early evening and pack the streets until late. This made-in-Hamilton event has evolved organically and everyone contributes to making it what it is, from the visitors to the artists to the local business owners. From May to October, a portion of James Street North is closed to cars between York Boulevard and Murray Street, creating a pedestrian only summer street party. Nov. 13, Dec. 11, about 5 p.m. until late, James Street North

Sandy and Nora Talk Politics live taping
Sandy Hudson and Nora Loreto are feminist musicians, gifted program survivors and former choir kids who have thrown away all their talents to become activist political nerds. Hudson is the founder of the Black Lives Matter movement presence in Canada and helped to found the Black Legal Action Centre, a specialty legal aid clinic providing services for Black people in Ontario. She is based in Los Angeles and is studying law at UCLA. Loreto is a writer, musician and activist based in Québec City. She’s a community organizer who thinks that hard, strategic work will bring about the revolution. She’s the author of Take Back the Fight: Organizing Feminism for the Digital Age (2020), and From Demonized to Organized, Building the New Union Movement (2013) and is the editor of the Canadian Association of Labour Media. Tickets are here. Friday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m., The First Unitarian Church of Hamilton, 170 Dundurn St. S., Hamilton

New season at Theatre Ancaster
Next up in the Theatre Ancaster season is the massive Canadian hit Come From Away, Nov. 13 to 29; the holidays bring a live radio show style adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street, Dec. 11-13; the senior series brings the timeless Fiddler on the Roof, Jan. 15 to 17; the youth series continues with Peter Pan Jr., Jan. 29 to 31, and then the celebrated Les Misérables from the high school division, Feb. 19 to 28; the seniors are back with Knickers – A ‘Brief’ Comedy, March 5 to 14; the mainstage series concludes with Made In Canada, a concert of Canadian music, April 16 to May 2; and the youth series concludes with GLEE: The Concert, May 21-23. And don’t miss Theatre Ancaster Youth Series performing the whimsical Willy Wonka JR., July 24–26. Click here for Theatre Ancaster’s event schedule and ticket links. Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

Tool School
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to DIY some porch décor guaranteed to make your entrance more welcoming and your newfound skills something to brag about. Burlington-based She Built That empowers women through woodworking by offering classes throughout the region, providing the tools and guiding participants as they construct a variety of decorative projects. Check out the website for more details and locations of the upcoming sessions where students will come away with a sense of pride and – because good things come in threes – a trio of porch lanterns. Nov. 14.

Hamilton Phil 2026
The 2026-2027 season of the newly renamed Hamilton Phil continues with Schubert & Tchaikovsky. An evening of passion, lyricism and emotional depth awaits as music director James Kahane leads the orchestra and welcomes acclaimed Canadian cellist Rachel Mercer. Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 8, “Unfinished,” opens the concert with haunting beauty and intensity, its mystery lingering long after the final note. Mercer brings warmth and expressive depth as soloist on Max Bruch’s “Kol Nidrei” and Dvořák’s “Silent Woods,” which creates a dreamy moment of tranquility. The concert concludes with Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir de Florence” for strings, a vibrant showcase brimming with lush melodies, virtuosic interplay and radiant energy. Saturday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. The holiday show is Murdoch Mysteries: Sugar Plum Murdoch. For the first time in Hamilton, experience Murdoch Mysteries: In Concert with the Hamilton Phil and conductor Lucas Waldin! Hosted by a star of the hit CBC series, this holiday-themed whodunnit pulls back the curtain on the music of Murdoch Mysteries, featuring behind-the-scenes insights from composer Robert Carli, festive sing-alongs, and a live orchestral performance of “Sugar Plum Murdoch” on the big screen. Saturday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. All tickets here. FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton

READ ABOUT EACH CONCERT IN THE SERIES IN HCM!

Mistletoe Mart
Enjoy a festive day of shopping, browsing, and treats at Port Nelson’s annual Christmas bazaar featuring: silent auction, café, baked goods, collectibles, knitting & sewing items, and jewelry. More than 45 artisans will offer handmade and specialty items, including: Christmas decorations, artwork, stained glass, children’s clothing, toys, chocolate, honey, and soups. Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Port Nelson United Church, 3132 South Dr., Burlington

Artisan Christmas Bazaar
The Artisan Bazaar Christmas in Burlington returns for its 10th annula holiday edition. Spend the day discovering 80 talented makers and shopping beautifully made goods you simply won’t find at the mall. From thoughtful gifts and holiday favourites to something special just for you, shop small, meet the makers, find something wonderful. Tickets at the door. More information is here. Sunday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel & Conference Centre, 3016 South Service Rd., Burlington

Shakespeare with a Twist
Buckleth up for a Shakespearean experience that is a far cry from your high school English class. Comedy group Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare brings Macbeth to the Bridgeworks and features a trained troupe of actors, with one overserved to the point of tipsiness. Since its 2010 beginnings, this inventive method of tackling the classics creates a unique experience, and no two performances are alike. With audience interaction and improv encouraged, this
shaken-and-stirred approach replicates the rowdy vibe of Elizabethan theatre, and you’ll be sure to see another side of the Bard – maybe two. 19+ event. Tickets are here. Nov. 16, 8 p.m., 200 Caroline St. N.

YMCA Peace Medal Awards
YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford is inviting community members to nominate individuals and groups whose actions are helping create a more peaceful world. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 YMCA Peace Medal Awards, with recipients to be recognized at the 39th annual YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast. Awards are presented in the following categories: youth awards (individual and group), ages 25 and under; adult awards (individual and group), ages 26 and up; international awards. The breakfast, presented in partnership with the Farah Family Foundation and Hasty Market, will feature special guest speaker Mark Brand, an entrepreneur, community builder and social impact leader known for his work advancing social change and community connection.
Tickets for the YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast are here. Nov. 17, 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., Hamilton Convention Centre by Carmen’s, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton

Theatre Aquarius season 2026
Next up is is the Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber beloved musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Featuring much-loved pop and musical theatre classics, including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door,” “There’s One More Angel In Heaven” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph.” This electrifying, modern production will bring Joseph’s story to life with spectacular dancing, vibrant storytelling, and joyful energy — a fun-filled experience perfect for audiences of all ages. The show stars Hamilton native Kaleigh Gorka as the Narrator, following up her turn as Elsa in last season’s holiday show Frozen. Tickets are here. Nov. 18 to Dec. 20.

On at Crown & Press
The November edition of Songs in the Round marks the return of beloved Hamilton songwriter Jim Witter, whose storied career includes 10 country No. 1 songs and multiple JUNO nominations. He's joined by his daughter Roslyn, who splashed onto the scene singing alongside Keith Urban at the grand opening of Hamilton Stadium. Tickets are here. Thursday, Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m. Crown & Press, 303 Ottawa St. N., Hamilton

Maquette Art Fair
Two weeks. Multiple venues. One city-wide celebration of contemporary art. The Maquette Art Fair returns this November, launching at The Cotton Factory — the fair’s hub — with highlighted events, exhibitions, pop-ups and programming unfolding throughout the full two weeks. Expect PRINT — a print fair featuring makers from the GHTA and beyond. Expect Fashion. Sculpture. Textiles. Photography. Expect unexpected collaborations, new partners, emerging artists, collectors, makers and plenty more. Get ready to pick up your art fair passport in October and explore. More information is here. Friday, Nov. 20 to Friday, Dec. 4.

Christmas Tree of Hope
The Christmas Tree of Hope will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a new home in Hess Village, continuing a downtown Hamilton tradition of bringing people together to support local children and families. Founded in 1976 by 900 CHML, the Christmas Tree of Hope has been part of downtown Hamilton’s holiday season for five decades. Its purpose has never changed: raise funds, collect toys and bring hope to children and families facing hardship.
Following CHML’s closure, the Rotary Club of Hamilton took on stewardship of the Christmas Tree of Hope and Operation Santa Claus, carrying forward a legacy built by generations of broadcasters, donors, volunteers, and community partners. This year, Rotary is partnering with Hess Village and Corus Radio to give the tree a new downtown home, keeping support for children at the centre of the celebration. The lighting ceremony is a free, family-friendly community celebration featuring a holiday market, seasonal entertainment, activities for kids and plenty of ways for residents and businesses to give back. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy or make a donation in support of Hamilton’s children. Friday, Nov. 20, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., tree lighting 6 p.m., followed by a visit from Santa, Hess Village

Taste of Art
Join in an intimate, one-of-a-kind culinary experience with renowned Canadian chef, former restaurateur and author Ken Lefebour, whose instinct-driven approach to cooking is as creative and unconventional as art itself. Forget the traditional dinner. This is an invitation to explore the art of flavour of a unique tasting menu. Expect a lively evening of unexpected combinations, distinctive tastes and culinary discoveries as chef Ken brings his creative process to life. Watch, listen and engage as he shares stories from his life as a chef, discusses the inspiration behind his approach to food preparation and explores the fascinating ways flavours come together. Think a live cooking demonstration meets an intimate conversation, with the opportunity to ask questions and get a glimpse into the mind of a chef. Just 30 seats are available. More than a culinary experience, is a fundraising event supporting the Maquette Art Fair. Your ticket helps Maquette champion Canadian artists, create opportunities for creative exchange and bring exceptional arts and cultural programming to our community. Tickets are here. Tuesday, Nov. 24, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

On at The Westdale
With 500 million streams and eight Best Album Awards, Westdale Theatre-goers can experience Johannes Linstead, Canada’s Guitarist of the Year and international Latin Jazz sensation, live on stage. In his spectacular new show, From Spain to Cuba, Johannes unleashes a fiery musical journey that bridges the exotic Mediterranean with the pulsing rhythms of the Caribbean. Nov. 26, 8 p.m. And as part of the ongoing Candlight series presented by Fever comes The Best of Hans Zimmer, Nov. 21 and Jan. 2, and Coldplay & Imagine Dragons, Nov. 22, Dec. 12, and Feb. 27. See the complete calendar and ticket links here. The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Hamilton Anime-Fest
Anime fans, cosplayers, collectors, and families from across Southern Ontario will gather in downtown Hamilton when Hamilton Anime-Fest takes over the Hamilton Convention Centre. The one-day convention will bring voice talent, cosplay, vendors, collectibles, artwork, and anime fandom together under one roof. Hamilton Anime-Fest is designed for longtime anime fans as well as newcomers experiencing their first convention. Attendees can explore vendor and artist displays filled with figures, manga, artwork, apparel, accessories, collectibles, handmade creations, and other anime and pop-culture merchandise while meeting fellow fans throughout the day. Event highlights include: voice actor Chuck Huber, actor and voice performer Peter Kelamis, and singer and actress Jennifer Cihi, best known to anime fans as the original English dub singing voice of Sailor Moon. Tickets and updates are here. Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Lane

Bach Elgar Choir
The Bach Elgar Choir revisits its focus on the great works of Purcell with his culminating masterpiece: Hail! Bright Cecilia. Henry Purcell (1659–1695) was the first great English composer of the Baroque age, leaving a legacy of large-scale works including for choir and orchestra. He was organist at Westminster Abbey, court musician for three kings and a queen, and an inspiration for Handel and the next generation of Baroque composers.
St. Cecilia is the patron saint of music and musicians. A festival in her honour began in 1683 in England, and a revival of the festival thrives today in London. Purcell’s Hail! Bright Cecilia, commissioned for the Cecilia festival in 1692, remains one of the grandest pieces for choir, soloists, and orchestra in English. More than three centuries later, this performance features the powerful 70-voice choir with the stunning voices of Baroque vocal ensemble Capella Intima and an orchestra. This ambitious program also includes Marc-Antonie Charpentier’s Te Deum, a glorious anthem for choir, soloists and orchestra. Te Deum is arguably his most well-known piece today because the overture’s opening is the signature tune for Eurovision. A 1953 recording of it became a rallying cry for French culture emerging from World War II. Te Deum is a musical feast, with solos, duets, trios, quartets, and soaring choruses. Tickets are here. Sunday, Nov. 22, 3 p.m., Central Presbyterian Church, 165 Charlton Avenue West, Hamilton

The holidays at RBG
Winter Wonders, Thursdays to Sundays, Nov. 26 to Jan. 4, is one of the region's most beloved holiday traditions. Winter Wonders transforms Hendrie Park into a sparkling winter wonderland. Discover dazzling light displays, festive music, glowing campfires, seasonal treats, and immersive experiences. Returning favourites such as The Singing Tree and Lantern Alley are joined by new art installations from Canadian and international artists, inviting visitors to explore illuminated landscapes and creative technologies. Also returning this year is the popular artisan market, where visitors can browse a rotating selection of local vendors offering handcrafted, one-of-a-kind goods. Timed tickets are on sale now.

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a festive breakfast buffet at Royal Botanical Gardens. Special guests, Santa and Mrs. Claus, will be making table-side visits, spreading holiday cheer and providing the perfect photo opportunity to capture those magical moments. After brunch, explore the Botanical Train for even more fun! Buffet offerings include vegan, nut free, gluten free, and dairy free options. Tickets include buffet brunch and access to RBG Centre / Hendrie Park for the day. Tickets are here. Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13; two seatings available: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. & 1 to 3 p.m., RBG Centre, 680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington

Yasmina Reza’s ART
Rook’s Theatre and Same Boat Theatre begin the 2026/2027 season with ART, Yasmina Reza’s Tony and Olivier Award-winning comedy, translated by Christopher Hampton. This marks a third co-production between Rook’s Theatre and Same Boat Theatre, following sold-out productions of Hamlet and A Doll’s House. In ART, Serge has just spent a small fortune on a painting. It’s white … completely white. His oldest friend, Marc, thinks he’s lost his mind, and Yvan, three weeks from his own wedding, is stuck trying to keep the peace between the two men who suddenly can’t stand the sight of each other. What begins as an argument about a canvas turns into an audit of a longtime friendship, and whether any of it can survive if they look at it too closely. The partnership between Rook’s and Same Boat is a sustainable working model of indie theatre in Hamilton. Without the budgets and resources of larger companies, this shared model means developing a company of artists, and sharing rehearsal space and production resources. The partnership has let both companies mount work at an elevated scale, and puts a rotating company of Hamilton-based professional theatre artists in front of audiences that might otherwise have to leave the city to see theatre at this level. In ART, directed and co-produced by Stephanie Hope Lawlor, familiar faces from the Hamilton theatre scene play the friend group, with Adam Lemieux as Serge, Michael Rode as Yvan, and Aaron Joel Craig as Marc. Craig also serves as Same Boat Theatre’s artistic director and co-producer of ART. Tickets are here. Nov. 26, 27, 28, and Dec. 3, 4, 5, The Back Hall, 130 Victoria Ave. N., Hamilton

EKRAN Polish Film Festival
The EKRAN Polish Film Festival returns for its 17th edition, bringing some of the year's most celebrated Polish films to Canadian audiences. Taking place In Hamilton, Toronto, and Mississauga, the festival will showcase award-winning cinema, emerging filmmakers, Canadian premieres, and special programming celebrating Poland's rich cinematic heritage. This year's lineup features major winners from the 51st Polish Film Festival in Gdynia, one of Poland's most prestigious film events. Highlights include Przez ścianę (Through the Wall), directed by Maciej Sobieszczański, winner of the Golden Lions for Best Film, and Łukasz Ronduda's Powiedz mi, co czujesz (Tell Me What You Feel), recipient of the Silver Lions. Audiences will also have the opportunity to see Fatherland (Ojczyzna), the latest film from Academy Award-winning director Paweł Pawlikowski (Ida, Cold War). Selected as Poland's submission for Best International Feature Film at the 2027 Academy Awards, the film earned Pawlikowski Best Director honours at Cannes and Gdynia in 2026. Now in its second year of programming in Hamilton, the festival continues to expand its reach, connecting audiences of all backgrounds through stories that explore culture, identity, history, and contemporary life. Tickets, festival passes, and the full program are available here. In Hamilton, films will be shown Nov. 26, Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave N, Hamilton

Theatre Burlington’s new season
For the third year in a row, Theatre Burlington is proud to present an all-Canadian playbill for the 2026-27 season. Theatre Burlington’s annual family show is Sleeping Beauty by local playwright, the late Vic Hyde. This one-hour production includes music, dancing, comedy and lots of audience participation. It’s a modern twist on the classic fairy tale and the perfect way to introduce the young (and young at heart) to the magic of live theatre. Nov. 28 to Dec. 13. The winter show is How Could You Mrs. Dick by Douglas Rodger. This “whodunit” with a difference, explores the shocking details of a 1940’s true-crime story that happened in our own backyard. It’s the legendary “torso” murder in Hamilton, focusing on the unsolved case of Evelyn Dick, accused in the gruesome death of her husband. It’s a spellbinding story that’ll leave you with more questions than answers. Feb. 12 to 28, 2027. The season closes with Five Alarm by local playwright Kristen Da Silva. At a small-town chili cook-off, Ava tries to piece together her father’s missing Five Alarm Chili recipe, while at the same time piecing together the mysteries of her past. A bitter rivalry rears its head, while the possibility of romance, and a touch of nostalgia, all come to a boil in this charming comedy. April 16 to May 1, 2027. Theatre Burlington will also present Playtime, its annual 10-minute play festival. Come and enjoy several short plays written, directed and acted by local artists. May 29, 30, June 5, 6, 2027. For information about tickets or to become a season ticket subscriber, click here.

Hamilton Phil and Bach Elgar's Messiah
The HPO and the Bach Elgar Choir come together for Handel’s monumental work Messiah. From the soft beauty of the opening notes to the resounding joy of the “Hallelujah Chorus,” this performance promises to uplift and delight audiences during the festive season. Tickets are here. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 6, 3 p.m. St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 620 Rymal Rd. E., Hamilton.

Hamilton Children’s Choir
The 52nd season of Hamilton Children’s Choir is Before Us Beyond Us. This year, we’re thinking about what is passed from one generation to the next. We are shaped by the stories, songs and people who came before us—but each generation must decide what to carry forward, what to transform and what to leave behind. Stories endure because people keep retelling them. This season is about that responsibility: transmission, reinterpretation and trust. Up first is Sound of Music Christmas, Dec. 5, 4 p.m., Faith United Church. Next is In Good Hands, May 8, 2027 and the final concert is Witness, an Ilumini feature concert, June 12, 2027. More information about the Hamilton Children’s Choir is here.

Christ Voice of Restoration Ministries Christmas dinner
Christ Voice of Restoration Ministries is hosting its 18th annual free Christmas dinner. The church anticipates welcoming approximately 750 community members, including 300 children. The event includes toys for every child, free clothing, and groceries to help families during the holiday season. For some households, Christmas can bring difficult choices between holiday expenses and everyday necessities. Through this event, CVR wants to help ease some of that pressure and create a welcoming space where families can share a meal, children can experience the excitement of receiving a gift, and community members can come together with dignity. Register by calling 289-389-2308. Saturday, Dec. 5, 1 p.m., Christ’s Voice of Restoration Ministries, 200 Sanford Ave. N., Hamilton

Ashley MacIsaac at The Westdale
An evening of Cape Breton Christmas charm awaits; an East Coast experience of Celtic toe-tapping entertainment guaranteed to have you smiling all night long! Accompanied by some of his most talented music friends, fiddler Ashley MacIsaac will be performing songs from his newly released Christmas album Christmas From The Atlantic with both modern and classic holiday songs for the whole audience to enjoy. Start your holidays off the right way with the Ashley MacIsaac experience! Get tickets here. Dec. 11, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

JANUARY 2027 AND BEYOND

Hamilton Phil 2027
The new year starts with shimmering delight with Mendelssohn & Schumann as Felix Mendelssohn’s Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream transports us to an enchanted world through dreamy soundscapes. We hear the world premiere of a brand-new work by composer-in-residence Abigail Richardson-Schulte and Canadian virtuoso Marc-André Hamelin is soloist on Beethoven’s sparkling second Piano Concerto. The concert culminates with Robert Schumann’s First Symphony, bursting with youthful energy and radiant optimism, evoking the fresh awakening and emotional renewal of springtime. Saturday, Jan. 16, at 3 p.m. Next up is Bizet’s Carmen in Concert. Bizet’s iconic opera Carmen comes to life on stage in this vivid semi-staged production, with music director James Kahane. From the sultry allure of the “Habanera” to the swagger of the “Toreador Song,” every scene pulses with rhythmic vitality and cinematic intensity. Rising stars from the Bayerische Staatsoper Opera Studio, one of Europe’s most prestigious opera training programs, lend their voices and artistry to this gripping tale of freedom, obsession and jealousy. Saturday, Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. Next up is Canada’s Celtic music icon Natalie MacMaster with the Hamilton Phil for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration. Renowned for her electrifying fiddle playing and vibrant stage presence, MacMaster brings the spirit of Cape Breton to the concert hall in a joyful program filled with energy, rhythm and dazzling musicianship. March 6, 7:30 p.m. The April show is Sibelius & Saint-Saëns. Stories, characters and musical imagination come to life in this colourful concert led by guest conductor Simon Proust. Sibelius’s atmospheric The Wood Nymph opens the evening, followed by the elegance of Mozart’s iconic Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. The concert concludes with the wit and charm of Saint-Saëns’s beloved Carnival of the Animals, a playful showcase of orchestral storytelling and character. April 17, 7:30 p.m. Music director James Kahane leads the orchestra in a dynamic season finale of striking contrasts and vivid orchestral colour in Prokofiev & Dvořák. Borodin’s In the Steppes of Central Asia and Stéphane Pépin’s Un Monde Nouveau set an atmospheric stage. Pianist Jean-Philippe Sylvestre brings brilliance to Prokofiev’s electrifying Piano Concerto No. 3. The evening culminates in the sweeping power of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “New World,” bringing the 26–27 season to a thrilling and resonant close. May 15, 7:30 p.m. All tickets here. FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton

Theatre Aquarius season 2027
The first show of the new season All's Well, a wild comedy from celebrated Canadian author Mona Awad (writer of the bestselling novels Bunny and We Love You, Bunny), magical realism takes centre stage. Miranda Fitch is destined for the spotlight until a stage accident rewrites her script and leaves her living with chronic pain. Now she teaches Shakespeare in a body that refuses direction, to students who would rather stage Macbeth than her beloved All’s Well That Ends Well. When three mysterious strangers offer her relief from her suffering, she is pulled into a surreal and unsettling journey that promises restoration. In this razor-sharp comedy about ambition, pain, power, and the cost of a cure, happy endings come with wicked fine print. Tickets are here. Jan. 27 to Feb. 13, 2027. Next up is the beloved fan favourite, Matilda, The Musical. It comes to life in a spectacular new Theatre Aquarius production, bringing wit, heart, and electrifying energy to Hamilton. Based on Roald Dahl’s cherished novel, this inspiring story follows an extraordinary girl who dares to challenge the grown-ups standing in her way and take charge of her destiny in a bold, magical musical adventure for all ages. Get tickets here. March 10 to April 14. Rounding out the season is Heist, described as Ocean’s Eleven meets the theatrical stage. Five criminals reunite for one final job after a devastating betrayal. But in a world built on double-crosses, loyalty is fleeting – and karma is waiting in the wings. Fast, smart, and dangerously fun, this slick theatrical caper keeps you guessing at every turn. Anything can happen… and probably will. Trailblazing screenwriter and playwright, Arun Lakra, brings a pulse-pounding, high-tech crime thriller to the stage, transforming cinematic spectacle into electrifying live theatre. Steal some tickets here. April 28 to May 15. Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St., Hamilton

HPO’s Intimate & Immersive
HPO’s Intimate & Immersive series draws audiences into an atmospheric journey that blurs the lines between performer and spectator in one of Hamilton’s most inspiring and historic venues, the Cotton Factory. Hear the music unfold all around you while the space is visually transformed with a multimedia artistic installation designed to respond to and elevate the sonic experience. HPO Intimate & Immersive is not just a concert — it’s a deep sensory encounter led by conductor James Kahane. Whether you’re a lover of contemporary art, classical music, or unforgettable spaces, this concert promises a night of bold creativity and connection. Tickets are here. Thursday, April 1, 2027, 7:30 p.m., The Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

RECURRING EVENTS

Open mic night at Pub 36
Pub 36 on Hess hosts a weekly open mic welcoming acoustic performers, singer-songwriters, strings and spoken word, while keeping the relaxed feel of a neighbourhood pub night for listeners. There is no cover; performers register in person at 6:45 PM and bring the equipment they need for their set. More information is here. Mondays, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Pub 36 on Hess, 36 Hess St., S.

Craft and Brews
Barton Street’s Mosaic is part bar, part community hub, offering a weekly rotation of activities that have earned a permanent spot on the calendar of many a Hamiltonian. In addition to vinyl Fridays, live music, and trivia nights, Mosaic also offers a weekly Happy Hour Stitch Club, perfect for textile tinkerers who have a pile of fabric and a dream. Whether it’s embroidery, quilting, or just a bunch of socks that need to be made whole, bring your current project and get to work alongside fellow crafties while sharing tips, progress and perhaps a beverage, because being creative is thirsty work. First Thursday of the month, 5:30 p.m., 431 Barton St. E.

gritLIT: Pages, Pens, and Pints
Whether you're starting a new book or working on a writing project, this is your chance to connect with fellow book lovers (without the small talk!) while ordering a drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available) from Mosaic Neighbourhood Bar, 431 Barton St. E. Every second Sunday.

Everybody Crew
Everybody Crew – one of Hamilton’s most inclusive communities – welcomes everybody to join their active meetups where the ensuing connection is just as critical as the fitness. At these thrice-weekly outings, runners, walkers and meanderers are invited to get moving and get talking, while revelling in a camaraderie that is difficult to find as grownups. To feel the air on your face while feeling connected to something bigger, check out their profile for all details, and be certain to read the space agreement to ensure a fit as perfect as that of your running shoes. Mondays, Wednesdays, Sundays, meet at Gage Park.

Stairy Tales
Hit pause on your podcasts and audio books and take in an evening of literature IRL. The Staircase Theatre’s monthly LitLive Reading Series features both established and emerging local writers and poets sharing their work aloud in short, 15-minute chapters. This communal storytelling experience, based around a specific theme each night, encourages reflection while creating a community experience out of a typically solitary venture. While every event is different, the bookish audiences are treated to the same epilogue every time — bedtime stories aren’t just for kids. More information here. First Sunday of the month, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. 27 Dundurn St. N. 

For the record(s)
Turn the tables on the digital age and go for a low-fi hang at Nanny & Bulls. The Wednesday Wax Club – held monthly – invites audiophiles to sell, swap, or simply listen to a selection of records in their comfy retro Rumpus Room. Enjoy a nostalgic evening with fellow vinyl lovers, taking solace in the fact that you won’t have to explain that the scratches make it sound better, and how dropping the needle into that groove perfectly the first time is one of life’s most special thrills. More info here. Second Wednesday of every month, Nanny & Bulls, 627 Barton St.

A bit dodgy
Anyone else have dodgeball flashbacks from grade school? Average Joe Sports Club can help you right some schoolyard wrongs at its recreational dodgeball leagues, offered throughout the year. Join as an individual or with a group and take workplace teambuilding to a new level. When your coworkers get a load of your mad skills, no one will eat your yogurt from the office fridge again, and we’re talking to you, Janet. For the more faint of heart, more refined sports are also offered, including frisbee, volleyball, or the always popular sports sampler.

Hamilton Haunts
Don your walking shoes, pack your bravery, and hit the streets under the cover of darkness with Hamilton’s Ghost Walks. Led by knowledgeable and fearless storytellers, three separate tours – Hamilton’s Dark History, Dundurn Castle and a city bus tour (on Halloween only), and the eerie secrets of Dundas – are part historical walk, part macabre meander. Participants come away with a passionate reverence for our shady history, and a new wariness of shadowy corners. Have a boo at the website for details and get ready to see the city in a whole new (albeit dim) light.

Night riders
Join the city’s brightest bike gang and take a night ride with the Hamilton Glowriders to help promote safe cycling while spreading some feel-good vibes. Departing from Corktown Park, the monthly group rides feature a colourful crew of cyclists riding blinking, twinkling bicycles, proving that string lights aren’t just for holidays. Music is also heavily encouraged for the full sensory effect, so if you’ve got a Bluetooth speaker kicking around, crank that up, too. Roll over to the website for dates and full details.

Right on Target
Channel your inner Cupid (or Apollo, or Katniss Everdeen, depending on your fav fandom) at BATL Axe Throwing. Best known for its axe- and knife-throwing events – the James Street business has now added archery to its offerings, providing customers with yet another inventive method of moving pointy item A to a receptive location B – carefully. Archers are provided with guidance and safety instructions from knowledgeable staff members, and a quiver-full of digital games featuring multiple interactive targets, ensuring their skills stay sharp.
50 James St. N.

Amped Up about Bingo
Put down those inky daubers and don your listening ears for a different kind of bingo game. Rock & Roll Bingo – offered monthly at The Mule – invites taco-loving participants to turn their phones into interactive bingo cards while tunes are pumped through the speakers as clues, a musical approach much more energizing than a monotonous calling out of random numbers and letters. Each of the three rounds played nightly offers a chance for players to win a gift card to The Mule, and with free tacos at stake, competition is bound to get spicy. Last Wednesday of each month.

Happy Trails
Solo walks are great, but something amazing happens when a group of chill wanderers heads to the woods – and it’s not just having someone to hold your water bottle when your shoe needs tying. Happy Hikers Hamilton invites adventurers of all abilities (and even their furry friends) to join group hikes on local trails with a supportive community and share the experience of being one with nature – together. A recent outing has even included a café crawl – because urban hikes can also be fun, and a bit less sweaty. 

Makers See, Makers Do
Hamilton’s DIY community is welcomed to step away from the kitchen table or come out of the garage to meet like-minded doers at Art Aggregate’s monthly maker meetups. Offering studio space, workshops, and a great community, Art Aggregate’s team welcomes all creatives to the meetups to get advice, expand their network, or simply show off their work to an engaged audience. Creativity breeds creativity – just because you can do it yourself, doesn’t mean you always have to. 637 Parkdale Ave. N.

Hunt Up Some Fun
See ya, sofa. Date night just got a bit more interesting, thanks to the Hamilton Hopper, an app-led outdoor scavenger hunt offered by Let’s Roam. Part tour, part game, participants hit up some of the city’s must-see spots, while completing challenges along the way. Turn your phone scrolling from a solitary activity into a way to connect IRL – we promise, it won’t hurt a bit. No date? No problem. The hunts – offered worldwide – are also perfect for friends, families, and even the co-workers that you wouldn’t mind getting to know a bit better.

Watch Your Temper
Learning more about where your food comes from is rarely as sweet – or delicious – as when you’re talking about chocolate. At the hands-on classic chocolate-making workshop, offered by Chocolate Tales, the history of the confection is unwrapped, while students learn about tempering and molding, truffle-making and decorating, and even some tasting. The best part of the class might actually be the homework – a box of treats to finish on your own time. Check out the website for upcoming dates and to register. 430 York Blvd.

A Co-Worker’s Gotta Eat
Working from home can be lonely and if done right, can also work up an appetite. Fortunately, 541 Eatery and Exchange can solve both conundrums at its Wednesday (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) catered co-working events at Last Supper Books. The community focused, not-for profit café serves up a delicious meal with a side of connection at the cozy bookstore, allowing the work-from-homers among us a great reason to venture out, have a bite, and meet some peeps while still getting stuff done. Check out the website for more info and to reserve. 148 James St. N.

Gravity Is Underrated
Being grounded is great, but sometimes having your head in the clouds offers a welcome change of scenery. Check out the view from above at a two-hour guided climb at Gravity Climbing Gym where trained staff take care of the tying, harnessing and belaying, so participants need only to focus on climbing. Meet forearm muscles you didn’t know you had and problem solve your way to the top of the gym’s walls with an average height of 45 feet, while your dedicated belayer offers tips and does the heavy lifting (you). 70 Frid St.

Risky Business ’80s Night
After a 10-year run at the now-closed Casbah, the popular Risky Business ’80s Night (first Saturday of the month) shifts to its new location at The Corktown Pub. Were you fortunate enough to experience the joys of '80s music the first time around (hi!) or were you introduced to the magnitude of its awesomeness at a different time? Either way, fans of that dot on the musical landscape are invited to hit the Corktown! The music that came out of that decade was eclectic and revolutionary – and having a monthly celebration of this fact is totally rad. See you there. First Saturdays of the month. The Corktown, 175 Young St., Hamilton

Improving your improv
If you ever wanted to jump on a stage and beef up your improv chops, The Staircase is the place. There are weekly drop-ins and dedicated workshop series. Check it out here.

Date-night cooking class
Rather than let someone else do the cooking on your next date night, take matters into your own hands by attending a date-night cooking class, offered by chef-run Gastro Market. Held each Friday evening, the classes feature a set theme and ethnic cuisine, and wrap up with participants enjoying the resulting three-course meal by candlelight in the on-site dining room. Not just for couples, Gastro Market can also accommodate private classes for a minimum of 10 students, and also offers several skills courses to help get Hamiltonians cooking. Fire up their website for more details on all the classes offered, pricing, and upcoming schedule. Gastro Market, 193 King St. E.  

Date-night painting class
Add a bit of colour to your next night out by joining local artist Karen Klucowicz at her Cotton Factory studio for a date-night painting class. No artistic experience is required at the intimate monthly class, limited to five couples, each with their own workstation affording a bit of privacy for chatting, admiring, or giggling. The night begins with a drawing exercise, moves to some technique work, and culminates in each couple creating a painting of their own, which will surely be wall worthy. All materials are provided, as is a titch of wine and light snacks, because creativity can work up an appetite. More information here. 270 Sherman Ave. N.

Room and Board Games
Bored with your own board game selection? Hamilton’s own board game café – the Bard and the Bear – offers meetups on the last Thursday of each month where boardies are welcomed to try any of the 900+ games on tap. Come as a group or – if you’re sick of solitaire – meet fellow enthusiasts to discover your new favourite game. With an enthusiastic staff on hand to offer recommendations or help decipher instructions, and a full food menu to provide sustenance, the good times will be sure to roll. Bard and the Bear, 237 James St. N.

Downward doggos
Many things in life can be improved with the presence of a puppy and yoga is no exception. Get your dog-fuelled dopamine pumping at Studio 35 Puppy Yoga, where an instructor leads a 95-minute class as 10 furry free-roaming roly polys “help” guide you through the session. The final 25 minutes of the class are dedicated to the most snuggly savasana you’ve ever had. For the yoga-curious out there, if there was ever a reason to finally roll out a mat – it’s puppies. Check out the website for full details and to book a session.

Float Your Boat
Test the theory that life is better on the water this summer by taking a 50-minute narrated cruise aboard the Hamiltonian, launching from the Pier 7 docks. Gain a new water-based perspective of the city’s skyline while the captain recounts the history of Hamilton’s bustling harbour. As you hop off the boat at the end of the trip, full of fresh air and fun facts – and leave the docking to the staff (so many ropes!) – you can also test the theory that the best boat is someone else’s. Cruise over to the website for schedules, ticket pricing and more info.

Ride On
The Moto Social, the global motorcycle initiative where motorbikes are optional for membership but good vibes are mandatory, cruises again to Hamilton this summer for monthly meetups. Helping build a bit of suspense, the location of each gathering is announced two weeks prior. Past spots include Hutch’s, Grain & Grit and Merk Snack Bar. Regardless of the locale, there will likely be lots of parking at these mobile parties, where those who ride mingle happily with bikeless bipeds.

Smarten Up
If social media scrolling is causing some atrophy of the ol’ thinker, it’s time to get curious and head to Shawn and Ed’s Brewing Co. in Dundas for the monthly Nerd Night. The PWYC event, with proceeds going to the Routes Youth Centre, features an evening of educational talks led by esteemed hosts – their credentials housed in the impressive smattering of letters after their names. Wide-ranging smarty-pants topics cover philosophy, science and more, the brain-bending and social evenings providing way more fun than a Google search could ever offer. Study the website for dates and more details.

Blues for the Sunday Blues
Occasionally, things get a bit blue at Shawn and Ed’s Brewing Co., but not in a bad way. Musicians Chuck Jackson and Tyler Yarema – members of the Juno award winning Downchild Blues Band – perform monthly at the historic brewhouse, adding a pinch of soul-filled rhythm that pairs perfectly with the house-made hops. During the Blues and Brews show, audiences can enjoy some afternoon sustenance from the brewery’s menu of snacks and bevvies – the live music and tasty treats marking an ideal way to start an upcoming week off on the right note. First Sunday of each month.

Soapy Soliloquies
There’s nothing quite so brilliant as those ideas that strike in the solitude of the shower, somewhere between shampooing and conditioning with nary a pen to be found. Monday Press – Hamilton’s independent publisher and arts collective – invites you to Shower Thoughts, their monthly drop-in writing workshop to flesh out these soggy musings on paper. The evening begins with a reading by a featured poet followed by writing exercises and workshopping with a supportive and creative crowd. The night wraps with an open mic where the prose – all cleaned up – can make its official debut. First Monday of every month, 7 p.m., Farside, 288 James St. N.

Mama Mondays and the Townhall Tikes
Just as tots benefit from social outings, so, too, do their caregivers. Join a community of smalls and talls at Townhall Social Eatery during Mama Mondays, where everyone is invited. With the diminutive audience entertained by Storytime with Auntie Amber, the grownups can catch a breath and enjoy a treat from a Townhall vendor – one that they might not even need to share. Swap war stories and share valuable intel with folks who know exactly why it took far longer than you could ever imagine to load up the stroller to come. Mondays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Townhall Social Eatery, 581 Concession St., Hamilton

Plein as Day
The stunningly restored historic Kitchen Garden of Dundurn Castle, which supplies the site’s kitchen with more than 200 heirloom varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers is waiting to also supply some inspo to your artistic talents. The idyllic 1.5-acre garden is open monthly to budding artists looking to brush up on plein air painting – a practice fundamental to Impressionism that focuses on the use of natural light. Bring your own materials, settle into
your spot in the garden, and channel your inner Monet. Regular admission rates apply. Check out the website for dates. Dundurn Castle, 610 York Blvd.

The Cemetery Chronicles
Put down the history book and take a field trip instead to the Hamilton Cemetery, where the poignant setting gives the stories told by the gravestones some reverential gravity. Better yet, join a historical interpreter for a guided walking tour as they recount significant events, pointing out related memorials along the way. Topics include the cholera epidemic, naval disasters and the War of 1812, and with these weighty stories literally afoot, participants will be impressed by the reminder that history happened here. Visit the website for full details and dates. Hamilton Cemetery, 777 York Blvd.

We Ride At Night
Be a bright spot in the darkness by joining the Hamilton Glowriders (“Hamilton’s brightest bicycle gang”) on their monthly group bike ride, held under the cover of darkness. With the goal of promoting safe and legal cycling, the group invites riders of all abilities to join in and light it up. Adorn your bicycle in lights, snap that glowstick, and roll through town with the glittering group on its casually paced, 90-minute ride, sharing the unique perspective on our city that – just like this colourful caravan – only comes out at night. Check out the website for details.

All Fired Up
Play With Clay, Locke Street’s interactive pottery studio, wants you to get your hands dirty at one of its drop-in sessions and classes in pottery painting and clay hand-building. Ready to throw your creative hat in the ring? Students can even take a spin on the pottery wheel by booking an hour-long guided lesson. You’ll make a new treasure to take home, and we dare you to refrain from making reference to a certain 1990s film. You know the one.

Shucking School
Oysters can be stubborn little things and knowing how to open one properly (and safely) is one of the universe’s deepest secrets. Fortunately, David Burns, owner of Maisy’s Pearl Oyster Bar on Barton Street is passionate about the beguiling bivalve and eager to share his knowledge. In addition to his restaurant and shop, Burns – an award-winning shucker on both a national and international level – offers private classes where he schools students on all things oyster – their health benefits, sustainability, varieties, and of course, the trick to conduct a proper shuck.

A Collective Tour
Since its inception in 2013, Hamilton’s Collective Arts brewery has been a champion of the creativity of craft beer and artists – the culmination of both fitting easily in the palm of one’s hand in the form of their recognizable, colourful cans. Get a peek behind the curtain and learn how Collective Arts was developed from brand to brews, in a 45-minute guided tour. Each guest is provided one pint of beer to wet their whistles and a discount at the retail shop for souvenirs. Saturdays.

Pet Propaganda
If your dog thinks that they are pretty special because they keep your floor crumb-free, you might want tell them about the latest exhibit at the Warplane Heritage Museum. “Even A Dog Enlists” is an encapsulation of the crucial role that animals played in war – both as active participants on the field and as featured figures in the propaganda of the time, when their images were used to increase national pride and enlistment. These heroic animals throughout the Allied countries made a tremendous sacrifice for us all, so all joking aside – give your own furry friend an extra tight hug tonight. Until March 18, Warplane Heritage Museum, 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope

Pet-ty Fun
Ancaster’s Triple C Farm is a spot quite like no other – an idyllic patch of country heaven that offers sanctuary to a literal menagerie of farm animals. Commune with nature while getting in your furry fix by scheduling a visit to the farm’s petting zoo, and just try to not fall in love with at least one of their charges who, by the way, cannot go home with you. Feeling flexible? Check out the farm’s website for other memorable offerings including animal walks, horseback rides and – no kidding around – goat yoga. Visit the website for full details and to register. Triple C Farm, 500 Carluke Rd. W., Ancaster

Feeling Sketchy 
Do you ever suddenly feel the need to create? Hopefully it happens on a Thursday, when each week visitors are invited to drop in to the McMaster Museum of Art to take part in unguided Sketching Sessions. While surrounded by the museum’s vast collection, budding artists are encouraged to simply sketch, drawing inspiration from the variety of the M(M)A’s works. A little imagination is mandatory, but no registration is required, and neither is preparation – shared art supplies are provided. Thursdays 4:30-6:30, McMaster University

Stories of Migration and Belonging
Hamilton is a diverse and vibrant city thanks to the immigrants who have chosen to come here. Through a video exhibit on immigration produced by the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council, viewers can learn about the experiences of immigrants and refugees from all over the world who have made Hamilton their home. The project includes video interviews with six immigrants from Italy, China, Ivory Coast, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Ukraine who moved to Hamilton between the 1940s and all the way up to 2023. The exhibit also includes facts about a wide range of historic and current immigration topics.

Innovation Meets Art
Artefact Social and the Hamilton Technology Centre has unveiled a new rotating exhibition space called Art at Seven Innovation. The first exhibition features 32  local artists and showcases about 50 pieces. A range of artists are taking part, from emerging artists to well-known, established artists such as Paul Elia and Cheryl-Ann Hills and exciting new-to-the-area artists such as Joseph Leanage. Hamilton Technology Centre, 7 Innovation Dr., Dundas

Go for A Beer Run
When it comes to exercise, different things motivate different people, and if you are motivated by either a supportive group or beer – or both – Fairweather Brewery has you covered. Open to runners of all abilities, the Fairweather Runners running club meets every Sunday morning for an easy, friendly 5K group run. You’re welcome to head home for a well-earned hot shower afterwards but consider lingering a bit at the brewery instead, bonding with your new gang, swapping stories about your favourite routes, newest gear, and latest injuries. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.

Buoyed by Hamilton
Viewing any city’s skyline from the water is a magical thing: the new nautical perspective provides a mysterious, almost storybook vantage point. Our Hamilton is no different, and when viewed from the water, with its industrial, commercial, and residential areas on display in one glance, it’s staggering to see the beautiful scope of what the city offers. Intrigued, but no boat? No problem. Now in its 19th season, The Hamiltonian – a 12-passenger sightseeing vessel – offers a leisurely 50-minute narrated tour of the Hamilton Harbour, where guests earn their sea legs while learning about a different side of the city. Tours depart from Pier 7 docks.

Work As A Group, Individually
Being an artist can sometimes be a solitary endeavour, yet at the same time, creativity breeds creativity. With this dichotomy in mind, the Youth Art Collective regularly welcomes young artists 14+ to come together to share their skills and hone their craft with like-minded cohorts at art-making meetups. The casual drop-in events are offered each month at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, and offer a welcoming and inspiring space for sketching, painting and creating en masse. 6:30-9 p.m., Art Gallery of Hamilton

A Moment At The Mic
Have a song, comedy set or poem you’re itching to debut, but no audience? The Staircase is ready to provide one for you at its monthly open mic nights. Performers simply need to sign up for a 10-minute time slot upon arriving and then wait for their chance to take the cozy stage. Relay Coffee is in the house providing coffee and snacks, so expect a fully caffeinated and alert crowd cheering you on in the welcoming air of the theatre. Check out the website for details and more dates. Wednesdays, The Staircase

Tree For All
Get up to something new this spring at Treetop Trekking at the Binbrook Conservation Area. Visitors looking for a bit of adventure can test their skills – and bravery – on an array of suspension bridges, Tarzan swings, or zip lines that promise to offer more than the usual walk in the park. Rest assured that the younger crew is not left behind in the trees, as a lower-to-the-ground course is available for visitors five to eight years old. For a more reflective visit with less screaming, the park will also offer a forest bathing experience, where participants are led by a certified forest therapy guide who will help them connect with nature, and themselves, on a new, deeper level. Binbrook Conservation Area.

Hiding in Hamilton
When you’re searching for a new activity to do with your pals, family or even co-workers, look no further than Hamilton Hopper – an app-lead scavenger hunt by Let’s Roam. Available in cities all over the world, the 90-minute to two-hour hunts are equal parts tour and game, each customized to the number and ages of participants. and are a perfect way to have fun and get the competitive juices flowing. With an assortment of challenges popping up along the way – those that are photo-based are quite literally “a picture or it didn’t happen” – the tours offer a perfect opportunity to seek out, and hopefully find, some new aspects of the city that have been hiding in plain sight this whole time.

If you have an event happening in Hamilton and Burlington you would like to see listed here, email meredith@hamiltoncitymagazine.ca.