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

Taste of Barton
Taste the best Barton has to offer while giving back! Purchase Taste of Barton tickets to embark on an exceptional, mouth-watering gastronomic adventure. By attending, you are directly funding and uplifting local independent restaurants. With delicious bites and sips from your Barton favourites such as Wildcat, Dawson's, Nanny & Bull's, Maisy's Pearl, Barton Salumeria and more, this is one tasty event you won't want to miss! Tickets are here. Thursday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Westinghouse, 286 Sanford Ave. N., Hamilton

Ancaster Fall Fair
The theme for the 176th edition of the Ancaster Fall Fair is In Her Hands: Family, Farm and Future. The 2026 theme aligns with the United Nations’ declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. This global recognition highlights the vital contributions women make across agriculture and food systems, from farm production to family well-being and economic sustainability – contributions that have too often gone unrecognized. At the Ancaster Fair, In Her Hands celebrates the women who have shaped our agricultural community, past and present, and those who will lead it forward. It reflects the role women play in nurturing families, sustaining farms, and building a resilient future for agriculture in our community and beyond. Bring the whole family for a day of fun at the fair. Stroll through the fairgrounds enjoying rides, live music, animal competitions, a demolition derby, homecrafts, and plenty of food at this iconic fair. Thursday, Sept. 24 to Sunday, Sept. 27, Ancaster Fairgrounds, 630 Trinity Road South, Jerseyville

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 Made in Hamilton: Curator and Collector Talk, Thursday, Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m.; 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

On at Playhouse Cinema
On the big screen: Salt Path, Sept 24, The Weight, Sept. 24; Primetime opening Sept. 24, The Stunt Driver, opening Sept. 26, and National Theatre Live: The Misanthrope, Sept. 27 and 29; Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World (presented with gritLIT), Sept. 26 and 30; the 4K restoration of The Ghost in the Shell, Oct. 2 and 5; You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution, Spread Love & Overalls, and Created a Community That Changed the World (in a Canadian Kind of Way), complete with a post-screening Q&A with the legend (and Hamilton resident!) Jayne Eastwood, Oct. 18; Hamilton Film Festival Presents: Voices From A Concrete Ceiling - with a Q&A with Hamilton's own blues legend Rita Chiarelli, Oct. 25. There is much more! A complete movie and event calendar is here. Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

On at The Westdale
The House of Adam and Steve presents REEL QUEENS at The Westdale! Celebrate camp classics on the big screen featuring drag performances before the film from local Hamilton drag artists, Jessie James, Kasha, and Beardra! Legally Blonde, Thursday, Sept, 24, 7 p.m.; The Rocky Horror Picture Show - special screening in tribute to Tim Curry. (1946-2026), Saturday, Oct. 31, 7 p.m.; Josie and the Pussycats, Thursday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m. Also on: The Weight, Sept. 24; Ni-Naadamaadiz: Red Power Rising, a free film screening will be followed by a Q&A with executive producer and co-writer Tanya Talaga, and Tom Wilson, film composer, Sept. 25, 1 p.m.; American Doctor, Sept. 28 and 29. See the complete Westdale Theatre calendar and ticket links here. The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Root for the home team
The Hamilton Cardinals are in the Canadian Baseball League Championship for the first time, taking on the Welland Jackfish! The next home games are Friday, Sept. 25 at 7:35 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 27 at 4:05 p.m. Tickets are here. Bernie Arbour Memorial Stadium, 1100 Mohawk Rd. E., Hamilton. The Hamilton Ticats are battling the Edmonton Elks on Friday, Oct. 9, 7 p.m., and the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday, Oct. 24, 3 p.m., Hamilton Stadium, 64 Melrose Ave. N., Hamilton. Don't miss Forge FC taking onHalifax Wanderers FC, Oct. 3, 4 p.m., the Pacific FC, Oct. 7, 7 p.m., and Inter Toronto FC, Oct. 12, 1 p.m. Hamilton Stadium, 64 Melrose Ave. N., Hamilton. Tickets for the inaugural home opener weekend of the Hamilton Hammers are now on sale. The Hammers will welcome the defending Calder Cup champion Toronto Marlies to TD Coliseum on Friday, Oct. 9 and Sunday, Oct. 11. Fans from across the region will come together over Thanksgiving weekend to celebrate the return of professional hockey to Hamilton, with a pre-game ceremony, entertainment throughout TD Coliseum and a family-friendly atmosphere. Learn more about season tickets, packages and single-game tickets here. TD Coliseum, 101 York Blvd., Hamilton

6-Minute Memoirs
Come to hear stories of hope and heartbreak, reinvention and resilience, all told in six minutes or less. Featured storytellers are: Kanien'kehá:ka and Scottish storyteller Madeline Wilson Shaw, president and executive producer of Indian & Cowboy Creative Media; Governor General's Literary Award finalist and Canada Reads finalist Sheila Murray (Finding Edward); journalist and editor and sailor Julie Charles; award-winning photographer Debra Friedman, who has just completed her memoir, Second Coming: Sex, Love, Loss and Longing at 70; actor, singer, playwright and producer Tricia Williams; queer award-winning author (The Call is Coming From Inside the House) and Modern Love essayist Allyson McOuat; award-winning playwright, actor, songwriter/lyricist, and arts facilitator, Lisa Randall; Katie McClelland, owner of Hamilton’s De La Sol Yoga Studio, who shares her story of addiction and recovery; Hamilton-based artist, writer, human rights advocate, and founder and executive director of the Sex Workers’ Action Program Hamilton, Scarlett Gillespie; and retired nurse Terry Beninger. These events are hosted by writer and memoir coach Anne Bokma. Tickets are here. Friday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., The Staircase Theatre, 27 Dundurn St. N., Hamilton

The Westdale: The Marvin Experience
Step into the soul, passion, and timeless music of Marvin Gaye with The Marvin Experience, a powerful live tribute celebrating one of the most iconic voices in music history. Featuring JUNO award winning vocalist Sean Jones backed by an electrifying eight-piece band, this immersive concert reimagines Marvin Gaye’s legendary catalogue with fresh, modern arrangements while honouring the spirit, emotion, and groove that made the music unforgettable. Enhanced by projected visuals, the show creates a rich sensory experience that brings new life to classics like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Let’s Get It On,” “Sexual Healing,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You),” “What’s Going On,” “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and many more. From smooth romantic ballads to socially conscious soul anthems and irresistible Motown grooves, The Marvin Experience is an evening of music, memory, and celebration for longtime fans and new generations alike. Jones first made waves as the lead vocalist of In Essence, known for early 2000s hits like “Friend Of Mine” and “You Will Never Find.” After the group’s split, Jones carved out a solo path blending classic soul with contemporary sound. In 2015, he launched Soul in the City, a highly successful live residency at Toronto’s Casa Loma, showcasing his band The Righteous Echo and emerging local talent. His latest album, Weekend Lover, is a return to his R&B roots—filled with nostalgic ’90s vibes and heartfelt songwriting. Tickets are here. Sept. 25, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Harry Manx in concert
Harry Manx – one of Canada’s most revered and distinctive musical voices brings his world-renowned live show back to the Playhouse Cinema, with special guests Australian soul-funk maestro & keyboard master Clayton Doley & prolific jazz, folk and world Canadian musician Kevin Breit! Manx is releasing a whole new album of material in August 2026 - Falling Upwards. Known for blending blues, folk, and Indian classical music, he is described as a “Mysticssippi” blues man and an “essential link” between the music of East and West, creating musical short stories that wed the tradition of the blues with the depth of classical Indian ragas. He has created a unique sound that is hard to forget and deliciously addictive to listen to. Switching effortlessly between slide guitar, harmonica, banjo, and the remarkable Mohan veena — a 20-stringed instrument taught to him by Indian master Vishwa Mohan Bhatt — Manx creates performances that are immersive, transportive, and deeply human. Not only this unique blend of great music, but also an up close and personal (often humorous) live performance, from a man who has and is still travelling the world with his music. Like all Manx's shows, they sell out. Tickets are here. Sept. 25, 7 p.m., Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

ABBA and Elvis in Ancaster
ABBA Revisited plays Ancaster for the first time, with a matinee and an evening performance in Peller Hall. North America's premier ABBA tribute brings the glitz, the glam and the harmonies: “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “Waterloo,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and the rest of a catalogue that hasn't left the radio in fifty years! Hailing from Toronto, the band has been touring this music since 2001, with shows from Las Vegas and the Bahamas to the Philippines and Dubai. Tickets are here. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Also on at the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre is JUNO and Maple Blues Award winner Steve Marriner, who opens the newly renovated and upgraded Voortman Studio with blues, soul and Americana. Thursday, Oct. 1; Coming Home: A Carnegie Gallery Fundraiser featuring Two hometown stars, JUNO winner Tom Wilson and Polaris-nominated Terra Lightfoot, play a Thanksgiving weekend evening of music and storytelling, with a gallery art show and live auction, to help repair the roof of the Carnegie Gallery's 116-year-old home in Dundas; Friday, Oct. 9, 6:30 p.m.; JUNO-winning musical director Lance Anderson leads a nine-piece all-star Canadian cast marking 50 years since The Band's final concert in The Last Waltz, Saturday, Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m.; comedian Tom Arnold, Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. 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,” Oct. 31, 7:30 p.m. And don't forget to get your tickets for Matthew Good's concert on Nov. 2. Steve Michaels sold out Peller Hall in August, and the requests started before the house lights came up. He's back this December 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 twenty-five years performing across North America, the U.K., Asia and Australia, including shows alongside members of Elvis's own bands. Early access tickets here. Tuesday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m. A full list of shows at Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre is here. 357 Wilson St. E., Ancaster

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. The season kicks off with Icemen by Vern Thiessen. A wealthy businessman wakes up bound and gagged, kidnapped by two of his own employees. Amid the Depression, Joe and Rennie’s ice-harvesting livelihood is melting away due to the advent of refrigeration. This edge of your seat thriller explores the human cost of capitalism, and asks, when the wealthy exploit the working class, who are the real criminals? Sept. 25, to Oct. 10. 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.

Canadian Condominium Institute conference 2026
This one-day conference of the Canadian Condominium Institute–Golden Horseshoe Chapter (CCI-GHC) attracts over 450 attendees made up of condominium corporations, unit owners, professionals and trades, and approximately 250 leaders, influencers and high-level decision-makers. If you live in a condo in the Golden Horseshoe area, this conference is for you. You’ll walk away with latest information on Smart infrastructure, project planning and financing, maintenance essentials, productivity strategies and hear from featured speaker John Di Nino, who was the condo board president at the time of the Vaughan condo shooting in 2022. Tickets for condo owners are $30 for a jam-packed day of education and trade show. Register here. Sept. 25, Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton

Hamilton Accessibility Film Festival
In keeping with Disability History Month, people with disabilities as portrayed through film over the years will be the highlight of free screenings of the Hamilton Accessibility Film Festival at the HAFF Time Show. The Accessibility Hamilton Alliance (AHA!) wishes to provide the community an opportunity to watch both classic and contemporary films depicting either persons with disabilities or actors portraying characters who have a disability through a critical lens. Tickets to any of the festival's four screenings have been generously funded by McMaster University. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the films' themes, examine movie accessibility for people with disabilities, and explore how the community can collectively make the big-screen experience inclusive for everyone. Screenings will include accessible features like open captions and descriptive audio and be presented in a sensory friendly format, which includes having our theatre lights dimmed instead of dark, a lower sound level, no advertisements or trailers, and a quiet room available. The films are: Champions, 10 a.m., How to Train Your Dragon, 1 p.m., Eleanor the Great, 4 p.m., Rudy, 7 p.m. Tickets and information here. Saturday, Sept. 26, all day, 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, Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 243 Queen St. N., Hamilton

Open Streets 2026
Open Streets returns to transform King Street into a vibrant, car-free space for walking, biking, rolling, and community fun. Stretching from John Street to Gage Avenue, Open Streets is about enjoying the street itself! Discover open areas for recreation, spontaneity, and connection — the street is yours to play. Open Streets temporarily closes selected streets to vehicular traffic, transforming them into lively spaces where people can walk, bike, skate, and engage in various activities. It's a chance to experience our city in a whole new way, promoting active living, local businesses, and community connections. Open Streets Hamilton promotes physical activity, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. By opening our streets to people of all ages and abilities, we create opportunities for healthier lifestyles, stronger communities, and a more vibrant city for everyone to enjoy. Sunday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC

On at Mills Hardware and Bridgeworks
Record label and concert promoter Sonic Unyon presents at Mills Hardware: Tom Savage & The Millwrights, Sept. 24; JIMI + Bianca Bernardi, Sept. 25; Logan Staats, Oct. 2; The Cowboy Up Tour: Elyse Saunders + Catto + Josh Dillon, Oct. 3; Sami Landri's Sami Party, Oct. 4; Shub X Handsome Tiger, Oct. 7; Noah Malcolm + Alex Whorms + Emma Whale, Oct. 8, 8 p.m.; The Hip Experience, Oct. 9; PIG + Cyanotic, Oct. 15, 8 p.m.; Slow Leaves, Oct. 19; So Faint + Ada Lea, Oct. 22; Emma Whale + Ariana Fig + Maddie Corinne + Luiz Grante, Oct. 22; Jeremie Albino + Redhill Valleys + Bianca Bernardi, Oct. 29 (this show is at the Music Hall); Jesse Roper, Oct. 31; Galactic Empire, Nov. 3; Lazarettes + Ron Hawkins + FemBots, Nov. 5; Sam Polley and The Old Tomorrows, Nov. 20; Janky Bungag, Nov. 24; 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; Rebels of Rage (Rage Against the Machine tribute), Dec. 12.

On at Bridgeworks: The White Buffalo + Emmett Jerome, Sept. 26; Golden: A K-Pop Kids Party, Oct. 4, 11 a.m.; Almost Monday, Oct. 4; Begonia, Oct. 5; Joel Plaskett and Alexander Gallant, Oct. 24; An evening with Bob Ezrin & Dennis Dunaway, Oct. 29; 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, 8 p.m. Sonic Unyon is also presenting two shows at The Westdale: Daniel Lanois, Aug. 7 and The Story of Nirvana, Sept. 23. Tickets and information for all shows are here.

On at FirstOntario Concert Hall
Raffi, Sept. 26, 2 p.m.; (Studio) Sixx Paxx, Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Not Dead Yet: John Cleese and the Holy Grail at 50, Oct. 4; Vengaboys & Prozzak, Oct. 16, 8 p.m.; (Studio) Highwaymen Show - Great Outlaws Tribute, Oct. 20, 7:30 p.m.; (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; Be Like Blippi Tour, Feb. 24. Tickets here. 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton

On at TD Coliseum
Bring Me The Horizon, Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Smashing Pumpkins, Oct. 7; Jimmy Carr, Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m.; John Summit, Oct. 24; 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); 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., Hans Zimmer Live, March 2, 7:30 p.m.; Monster Jam, April 2-4. Tickets here. 101 York Blvd., Hamilton

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.
Nominations must be submitted online by Tuesday, Oct. 13. 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

Discover Burlington Culture Crawl
A mural you’ve passed a hundred times. A museum you’ve been meaning to visit. Your next Burlington discovery could be closer than you think. Discover Burlington is launching the Discover Burlington Culture Crawl, a free mobile pass that invites residents and visitors to explore the city’s arts, heritage and creative spaces alongside Ontario Culture Days. With 15 stops across Burlington, the Culture Crawl turns a little curiosity into a reason to get out
and explore. Participants use the pass on their phones, check in at participating locations and collect points to redeem for prizes. The stops include the Art Gallery of Burlington, Ireland House Museum, Joseph Brant Museum, Royal Botanical Gardens’ Hendrie Park, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, along with public art installations. Passes are here. Until Oct. 4.

Carnegie Gallery
Carnegie Gallery will host two exhibitions in September. Considering the Edge, a two-person, ceramic sculpture exhibition featuring the work of Dundas-based artist Barb Sachs and Jerseyville-based artist Gise Trauttmansdorff. Sachs has a background in painting, sculpture and film animation, with the last 35 years being devoted to clay as a primary working medium. Every piece that she makes is fired using the raku process. Hand-built animal forms have been a main focus, but with wilder, more stylized creatures, Sachs is able to play and let loose, pushing forms into new directions. Trauttmansdorff has a background in architecture, metal working, sculpture and farming. She has been working in mixed media and clay for over 35 years, which has been essential to maintaining her sense of self. She is happiest creating with her hands mainly out of the clay that she raku or smoke fires and combines with found objects. Abstractions, contrasts, light and shadow play a big part in her pieces. She aims to have each piece reveal the history of its process – evoking a sense of discovery. Considering the Edge is a dialogue between both artists’ individually realized pieces. The second exhibition is Andrea Vuletin Effervesce is a new body of work by Chatham-based ceramicist Andrea Vuletin, a full-time ceramic artist since 1997, primarily making decorative functional ware using wheel thrown porcelain. The botanical work that makes up Vuletin’s signature today took many years to develop. The forms grew from earlier lines that focused on the marriage of form and graphic surface decor and the desire to study and draw from nature. The resulting combination of these steppingstones, the Botanical line, is at once contemporary and nostalgic. The collection that makes up Effervesce has both hand-built and wheel-thrown components that convey different impressions. The thrown elements have a glossy surface over fine illustrations and curvy fluid forms. Together these may read as confident, joyful, relaxed and reverent. The pod forms are hand-built using impressed slabs and coil and pinch methods, and though they have tight forms, they swirl and collide into one another, generating a variety of implications. The pods themselves are abstract organic forms and can represent seeds, cells, beads, or stones that may represent containment, potential, meditation, worry or prayer. The compositions have randomness that can be read as accident or growth, employing balance, movement, and connection. Overall, this collection of work holds whispers of things the artist holds dear and the percolation of these concerns through the act of making. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Sunday 12 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. The exhibitions run until Sept. 27.

HAPPENING NEXT WEEK

Thermal energy workshop
To help communities accelerate their Thermal Energy Network projects, QUEST Canada is holding a two-day workshop in Hamilton with participation from Caledon, Durham Region, Halton Region, Niagara Region, City of Pickering, City of Toronto, City of Waterloo, York Region, and City of Hamilton. Moving from community Thermal Energy Network (TENs) ambitions to cutting the ribbon on a real-world project is one of the biggest challenges facing Canadian municipalities, working toward a cleaner future in these rapidly changing yet opportune energy development times. QUEST Canada’s TENs Project Accelerator Workshop in Hamilton will bridge that gap, by offering communities - those actively exploring district energy, waste heat recovery, geo-exchange, or heat pump-based systems - practical tools, tailored coaching, and direct access to funding and technical experts. Through hands-on sessions, participants will work to advance their own local energy project concepts – refining scopes, strengthening financial strategies, setting priorities, and identifying clear next steps. Tickets and more information are here. Monday, Sept. 28 and Tuesday, Sept. 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Art Gallery of Hamilton, 123 King St. W., Hamilton

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

Festitalia
Festitalia is launching a new children's choir for those in grades 3 to 8. Children will learn to sing songs in Italian in a fun and engaging way with the goal of having fun, learning some Italian and singing at various functions around the city. No Italian or singing experience required. Sessions will run beginning Sept. 28 to December and then January to May. To register, email info@festitalia.ca. Starting Tuesday, Sept. 28, 5:30 p.m to 7 p.m., St. Catherine of Sienna Church, 620 Rymal Rd. E., Hamilton. There are also four remaining regional dinners: Sicilia Canta (Sept. 25), Famee Furlane (Sept. 26), Pugliese (Sept. 27)and Sons & Daughters of Italy (Oct. 1). A full event calendar is here.

Ward councillor debate
The arts play in enriching our community, building our economy, and adding to the vibrancy of the city. But there are many challenges facing the arts and culture sector, including government funding and affordable event spaces. You are invited to The Big Picture: Hamilton Arts and Culture Forum where councillor candidates will debate. The event is being co-hosted by Hamilton Arts Council and the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. Given the number of councillor candidates across Hamilton’s wards, it is not feasible to include everyone in the live forum. To ensure a fair and non-partisan process, a lottery may be implemented to support equal representation from across all wards.
This event is free, but requires registration. Please register here. (You can also read a four question-survey of all ward and mayoral candidates regarding the arts and culture sector in Hamilton that will be published in HAMILTON CITY Magazine.) Monday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., The Cotton Factory, 270 Sherman Ave. N.

On at Crown & Press
Live-looping guitarist and singer-songwriter Jacob Moon will return to Crown & Press on Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m. While Rush, Marillion, and Gordon Lightfoot have praised Moon's renditions of their songs, it's his original material and compelling live shows that make fans for life. Get your tickets here for this intimate acoustic show. The Glenn Paul Trio is back, bringing the best of Miles Davis with award-winning Hamilton musician Ben Bowen on trumpet. As always, it promises to be a great and relaxing night of music, improvisation, and community. Get tickets here. Friday, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. The October edition of Songs in the Round will feature Cape Breton singer-songwriter Mike McKenna Jr. and Hamilton-based rock singer-songer Bernadette Connors. They'll perform alongside host Frank Fiction, Thursday, Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are here. Crown & Press, 303 Ottawa St. N., Hamilton

Theatre Aquarius season 2026
The 2026-2027 season at Theatre Aquarius begins with Sisters of ’78, written by award-winning Hamilton playwright Kristen Da Silva and directed by artistic director Mary Francis Moore. The play is inspired by the historic Fleck Strike in Centralia, Ontario. Sisters of ’78 is a fierce, funny, and deeply moving ensemble drama about women who refused to stay silent and who stood together to change the course of history. Tickets are here. Sept. 30 to Oct. 17.

READ OUR PREVIEW OF SISTERS OF '78

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.

HAPPENING IN OCTOBER AND BEYOND

Jeremy Porter and The Tucos
Jeremy Porter and The Tucos – an original rock and roll band from Detroit, Michigan – are making their Hamilton debut with The Washout!, Old Mountain Low, Mickey Moone, and Attitude Check. The Tucos are kicking off their fall 2026 tour in Hamilton, promoting their new album Jeremy Porter and The Tucos Sell Their Souls. The album is the Tucos' fifth, and the band has a long history of touring Ontario and Canada. The Tucos are often compared to bands like The Replacements, Cheap Trick, Drive-By Truckers, Uncle Tupelo, and The Plimsouls. They're known for an engaging, interactive, tight and energetic live show, with sharp songwriting and musicianship. More information is here. Thursday, Oct. 1, Doors Pub, 56 Hess St. S., Hamilton

Hamilton Phil 2026
The 2026-2027 season of the newly renamed Hamilton Phil begins with Beethoven’s Sixth, featuring conductor James Kahane and violinist Jessica Linnebach. The concert begins with the dazzling energy and sweeping melodies of Hector Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture. Ernest Chausson’s “Poème for violin and orchestra” unfolds with rhapsodic freedom and rich expression and we will hear the world premiere of a new work by 26–27 HPO composer fellow, Leo Purich. Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral,” brings the performance to a close with the composer’s radiant tribute to the natural world, moving from birdsong and flowing brooks to a dramatic summer storm and serene gratitude. Saturday, Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m. Next up is Symphony in Space: The Ultimate Sci-Fi Concert. Blast off with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra for an out-of-this-world symphonic adventure led by conductor Evan Mitchell. From distant galaxies to dystopian futures, this electrifying program celebrates the music that has defined sci-fi on screen and in our imaginations for generations. Audiences will be immersed in the bold heroism, haunting mystery and heart-pounding intensity of music from Star Trek, Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, E.T., Alien, Interstellar, Tron, Dune, Back to the Future and more. Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. The next concert plays tribute to 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!

Kinderfest
Kinderfest, presented by Arts for All, will be at Telling Tales, featuring Carousel Players with the Drama Garden, a multi-sensory theatrical experience for young minds located at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Each Drama Garden offers a series of vignettes including: Dragon on the Hill where audiences animate and dance with a large dragon puppet, to sing a lullaby for the dragon, and to then imagine what might happen next in the story; The Cardinal, where the audience helps a comedic human-sized bird to rebuild its broken nest; The Flower Garden, an interactive musical performance where audience members help to make music to encourage flowers to grow; and Junk Xylophone, a self-guided musical play for all ages. Oct. 4 & Oct. 5, 11:30 a.m., 1:45 p.m., and 3 p.m., Royal Botanical Gardens, Hendrie Park

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

We Follow Our Families
We Follow Our Families links an experience to the Haudenosaunee clan system and how it relates to family structures and their corresponding animals. The Haudenosaunee are a matrilineal family and governance system where lineage, identity and clan membership are passed down through the mother. Haudenosaunee clans are divided into three groups: Land (Bear, Wolf and Deer), Water (Turtle, Eel, and Beaver) and Air (Snipe, Hawk and Heron). Cayuga Woodland artist Kyle Joedicke has brought these clan animals to life in his signature vivid style as large artworks placed throughout the Rock Garden landscape. Additionally, he has created a new 8’ x 16’ mural in the lower bowl of the garden. Throughout the evening Kyle, who is also a well-known DJ, will be performing as guests are invited to explore the gardens, discover the clan animal works and enjoy the setting sun.
All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Native Womens’ Centre of Hamilton. Tickets are here. Tuesday, Oct. 6, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Rock Garden, 1185 York Blvd. Hamilton

Rockton World’s Fair
Thanksgiving and the Rockton World’s Fair go hand in hand. This event has been running since 1852 with family entertainment, agricultural and livestock displays and competitions, horse and heavy horse shows, demolition derbies, live entertainment, vendors, antique machinery, school and home crafts, and, of course, delicious fair food. Be sure to check out the pie eating contest, karaoke, spelling bee, pet show, scavenger hunt, and peddle tractor rides. Everything you need to know is here. Oct. 8 to 12, 812 Old Highway 8, Rockton

Jazz Originals
Join host Karen Thornton for a mesmerizing evening of music celebrating the timeless songs of The Beatles. This show reimagines the Fab Four’s greatest hits with a jazz twist. Acclaimed pianist and 2026 JUNO nominee Nancy Walker joins forces with seasoned vocalist John Neudorf, whose explosive, blues-infused jazz and new album Here’s To Life are lighting up JazzFM. Completing the lineup is Robyn Black, a versatile vocal powerhouse with two decades of experience spanning major stage productions, Disney projects, and pop hits. Tickets are here. Friday, Oct. 9, 8 p.m. The Westdale, 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. Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, about 5 p.m. until late, James Street North

Book it
Fans of reading, brews, and alliteration are in for a true treat at the Pints and Pages fall book market at Grain & Grit Beer Co. Just in time for “cuddle up with a good book season,” and presented by Side Hustle Events, the market will feature book-focused local vendors, food and beverages (natch), and even a free book swap, because while shelf space can be limited, the desire to soak up the written word can never be. Oct. 11, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., 11 Ewen Rd., Hamilton

Keynote address: Moral Courage for Messy Times
New York Times bestselling author and educator Irshad Manji will be coming to Mohawk College for a keynote address, Moral Courage for Messy Times: Fostering Unity, Not Uniformity. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to learn practical tools on how we can engage in thoughtful communication across differences, where diversity of views can be honoured without fear and anxiety that generate division. Amid all the noise of our culture, can we discuss urgent yet sensitive issues without becoming offended at every turn? Irshad Manji believes so. Better still, she teaches us how. You will leave with practical skills for turning different, even clashing, opinions into opportunities for personal and social health. Here's to hearing each other — and healing ourselves. Manji will also be moderating a conversation between a panel of local advocates who will discuss how any of us can influence what we can't control — whether at work, home, or beyond. Panelists include Frank Bergen, Chief of Police at Hamilton Police Service, Lyndon George, executive director at Hamilton Anti-Racism Resource Centre, Angie Hill, restorative justice worker at Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Joel Tanner, CEO and creative director at SMPL Design Studio, and Medora Uppal, CEO of the YWCA Hamilton. This event is complimentary. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Register here. Oct. 13, panel discussion, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.; keynote address 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Hamilton Film Festival
The 21st annual Hamilton Film Festival will kick off with an opening gala and a night of local shorts (movies with a strong connection to Hamilton), dozens of film screenings at venues including the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, The Westdale, and Playhouse Cinema, master classes, Q&A with filmmakers, along with networking events, an industry day, and screenings from the Kids Can Film program and from emerging filmmakers in the Hamilton School of Media Arts. Tickets and film information are here. Oct. 16 to 25, various venues

You Should Have Stayed Home Too
Tommy Taylor (2026 Hamilton Arts Awards winner) spent the pandemic working overnight shifts in Hamilton and Toronto shelters, encampments, drop-ins and overdose prevention sites. You Should Have Stayed Home Too is what he brought out: documentary theatre built from first-person testimony, and the surviving recordings of his late aunt Vikky Taylor, a central figure of Toronto's 1960s Yorkville folk scene and best friend to Joni Mitchell. Sixty years apart, both were keeping people alive through the night. This will be a workshop presentation of the documentary performance built from those years in crisis, a system in collapse and lives lost – blending first-person testimony with live folk music, projected photographs, and immersive audience experience. Dramaturgy by Karen Ancheta and Anand Rajaram and musical creation by Abigail Lapell. This workshop preview first played for Theatre Aquarius audience members at the Brave New Works Festival. From the creators: “This workshop presentation offers an early look at the piece days before the municipal election – followed each night by conversations and debates about issues at the heart of the piece (issues that are increasingly urgent across the city) as we head to the ballot box.” Tickets are here. Content note: overdose and drug use, death, homelessness, police violence, pandemic. Includes audience participation and a naloxone demonstration. Oct. 16 and 17, 7:30 p.m. Theatre Aquarius Studio, 190 King William St., Hamilton

Sundays Unlocked
Wander down Hamilton's iconic Locke Street while you enjoy live music, local vendors, food and entertainment! Experience the street vehicle-free as Sundays Unlocked showcases all that Locke Street has to offer. Enjoy live music throughout the day, bring your kids for outdoor activities, or pop into one of the many boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants for some local goodies. More information is here. Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Folk Canada Awards
The 32nd annual Ontario Folk Music Awards will take place at The Studio in Hamilton, on Wednesday, Oct. 14 during the annual Folk Canada Conference. The event will feature performances by a select number of nominated artists and special guests, and is open to all Folk Canada Conference attendees. Still to be announced are the Estelle Klein Award recipients, the Laureate for the Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award and Culture in Climate Award. Among 34 nominees in five categories is Hamilton’s The Barrel Boys, who are nominated for Performing Artist of the Year. Established in 1987 and now in its 39th year, the Folk Canada Conference (previously the Folk Music Ontario Conference and Ontario Council of Folk Festivals) has connected artists and presenters through showcasing, one-on-one meetings, networking, peer sessions, panels, mentorship, and other career development opportunities. The conference will take place Oct. 14-18 in Hamilton and welcomes attendees from across the country to the event. To learn more, visit the Folk Canada website and sign up for its newsletter.

Halloween at the RBG
The all-ages Great Pumpkin Trail is returning to RBG! Follow the candlelit glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns deep within the recesses of the Hendrie Valley. Thousands of real pumpkins will be arranged in artistic displays and installations throughout Hendrie Park. Get your time-ticketed tickets here. Learn more here. Oct. 15-18 and Oct. 23-25. Things get dark and spooky with RBG After Dark: Pumpkin Trail, a 19-plus event. RBG’s Hendrie Park transforms under the cover of darkness for an exclusive adult-only Halloween celebration which is sure to send a chill up your spine! Come dressed in your Halloween best and follow the candlelit glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns deep within the recesses of the Hendrie Valley. Tickets are here. Thursday, Oct. 22, 6 to 11 p.m., Hendrie Park, 680 Plains Rd. W. Burlington

Here for a Gourd Time
It may not be the spookiest place around, but a visit to Stoney Creek’s annual PumpkinFEST is a great way to soft launch yourself into the Halloween season. Before wandering weather wraps for the season, enjoy an afternoon of live music and great snacks while admiring the goods of local vendors and artists. Be sure to dress for the occasion, too – there is a costume contest on the docket as well as some trick or treating so the little ones can perfect their technique in preparation of the big show. More information here. Oct. 17, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., downtown Stoney Creek

gritLIT: Emily St. John Mandel
Emily St. John Mandel, the award-winning, bestselling author of Station Eleven and Sea of Tranquility, returns with Exit Party, a breathtaking novel of doubles, shadow worlds, and fractured timelines as a man disappears from a glittering Los Angeles party, and a woman – a gunrunner, an art collector, an operative of the state – searches for answers. Los Angeles, 2031: The first spring after the collapse of the United States, peacekeeping troops withdraw from the city, the Jacaranda trees blossom, and the curfew is finally lifted. Ari Waker and her roommate pass the gauntlet of bomb-sniffing dogs, the shanty towns, and the Red Cross tents as they walk across Silverlake to a party. The mood is ecstatic inside the apartment, people drink and dance, a woman wears a silver dress, pleated like tinfoil. And then: A shift. A bewildered twin, an uncanny doppelganger stumbles through the crowd and out into the night, and Kareem, the party’s host, vanishes into thin air. As Ari Waker unravels the mystery of this inexplicable night, Emily St. John Mandel unfurls a story that takes us from a future America splintered by civil war to the seaside cliffs of Greece where weapons dealers hide in an elegant resort, and from the domed city of Paris to a colony on the moon. An unforgettable literary feat, Exit Party is a novel about the price of safety, the perils of the surveillance state, a requiem for a world not unlike our own, and a breathtaking story of resilience in the face of cataclysmic change. St. John Mandel is from British Columbia. She is the author of six previous novels, including Sea of Tranquility, The Glass Hotel, which was shortlisted for the Giller Prize, and Station Eleven, which was a finalist for a National Book Award and was included in the New York Times Best 100 Books of the 21st Century list. Her work has been translated into 37 languages and adapted for television. She lives in New York City and Los Angeles. Tickets are here. Sunday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m., The Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

gritLIT: Clara Hughes
Six-time Olympic medalist, celebrated humanitarian, and bestselling author Clara Hughes visits Hamilton courtesy of gritLIT in celebration of her new memoir Learning to Breathe. In conversation with Robin Lacambra, Hughes will talk about her book, a follow-up to 2021’s Open Heart, Open Mind. In her latest memoir, Hughes explores her midlife transition, coping with a 2021 knee injury during menopause, and her healing journey utilizing psychedelic-assisted therapy. As an elite athlete – she’s the only person who has won multiple medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games – Clara Hughes thrived on powering through pain, with profound consequences for her body and mind. Following her retirement from sport, the mantra ‘‘movement as medicine’’ fuelled her public advocacy for mental health and her personal healing journey. However, Clara’s attraction to extremes persisted: grueling months-long hikes and bike-packing trips began to take a toll. In 2021, a catastrophic knee injury coincided with menopausal hot flashes and dizzying mood swings, forcing her into stillness, and her depression, kept at bay for years, loomed larger than ever. How do you move forward when the body you’ve always relied on doesn’t bounce back like it used to, when you feel like a stranger to yourself, and the punishing voice in your head won’t stop? Hughes sought help through traditional avenues, but after realizing how little support there is for people in menopause, she turned to a different kind of medicine. Enter the world of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Through guided experiences—some hilarious, some alarming, and some mind-expanding – Clara begins a winding trip back to herself, and to a deeper awareness of the roots of the inner pain she’d suppressed through sport. Along the way, she forges new relationships; begins the work of repairing old ones; and faces long-held fears. Tickets are here. Tuesday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m., Playhouse Cinema, 177 Sherman Ave. N., Hamilton

The Westdale
The Westdale welcomes back The Invincible Czars to its stage and screen. One night only: experience a century-old cinematic masterpiece reborn! The Invincible Czars celebrate the 100th anniversary of the silent horror classic, Faust (1926), with an immersive live soundtrack tour across North America. Known for transforming classic films into high-energy experiences, The Invincible Czars are a cinematic "arts-rock" band who create modern, original soundtracks and perform them live alongside silent horror films. Five multi-instrumentalists will perform a genre-bending score live on stage using violin, electric guitar, woodwinds, and percussion, seamlessly blending the cinematic drama of John Williams with heavy metal riffs, smooth bossa nova, and haunting rock reinventions of Mussorgsky’s classical masterpieces! Audience members are encouraged to dress in costume and enjoy a wild night of cinema and live music. Tickets are here. Tuesday, Oct. 20, 8 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Riverboat Revisited – Good Brothers
The legendary Good Brothers – twins Bruce and Brian alongside younger brother Larry – are back on the road celebrating more than 50 years of Canadian country, folk, and bluegrass history. Known for rich sibling harmonies and fiery banjo playing, this iconic trio won eight consecutive JUNO Awards and earned inductions into multiple Halls of Fame. They frequently toured the world with their mentor, Gordon Lightfoot, and recently released their 2025 tribute single, “Now That You’re Gone.” This milestone tour brings their incredible journey full circle to where it all began. The Good Brothers played their historic first show on May 14, 1974, at Toronto’s legendary Riverboat Coffee House. Opened in Yorkville in 1964 by Bernie Fiedler, The Riverboat launched generations of Canadian music royalty and is immortalized today as an official cultural landmark. Tickets are here. Thursday, Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m., The Westdale, 1014 King St. W., Hamilton

Face Time
A far cry from the mass-produced Halloween masks that crowd store shelves each fall, the ornate masks made by local artist Lori Le Mare are true one-of-a-kind creations with theatrical origins that stretch back to ancient Greece. An expert in decorative painting and historic restoration, Le Mare shares her finely honed skills with bare-faced students at her Cotton Factory studio, offering Mask Making For Theatre and Fun, a three-day workshop where they create a papier-mâché mask for use in theatre, festivals, or simply for the satisfaction of carrying on a very, very old tradition. More information here. Oct. 23 – 25, 270 Sherman Ave., Hamilton

Secondhand Dreamcar
Secondhand Dreamcar, an explosive soul/roots/blues band from Edmonton, is a constellation of Canadian music veterans who have worked on some of the finest jazz, funk, folk, soul, and blues projects ever created in Alberta. Collectively, they craft a distinct, funky, and lyrically-driven sound. Dreamcar has started off 2026 right, receiving three Canadian Blues Music Awards nominations and JUNO and WCMA nominations for Blues Album of the Year. Their second album, Get Ready, will be released on Sept. 25, ahead of an appearance in Hamilton alongside Joe Nolan. Tickets are here. Friday, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m., Oxigin Club, 38 King William St.

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. Oct. 25, Nov. 14.

Ruby Gala for Interval House
Canada's Queen of R&B Soul, Jully Black, will headline Interval House of Hamilton's 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala. The gala will bring together community leaders, supporters, and advocates to celebrate Interval House of Hamilton's 40-year legacy while raising critical funds to support emergency shelter, counselling, prevention education, outreach programs, and services for women, children, and families across Hamilton. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening featuring a VIP reception, dinner, inspiring stories of impact, live entertainment, exciting auctions, and Jully Black's exclusive performance.
As one of Canada's most celebrated and influential artists, Black brings an extraordinary combination of talent, authenticity, and advocacy to an evening dedicated to honouring four decades of safety, hope, and empowerment for women and children experiencing violence. A multiple JUNO Award winner, Canada's Walk of Fame inductee, and recipient of an honorary doctor of music degree from Wilfrid Laurier University, Black is recognized not only for her powerhouse vocals and captivating performances but also for her unwavering commitment to uplifting women, families, and underrepresented communities. Tickets are here. Wednesday, Oct. 28, 5:30 p.m., Carmen's Banquet Centre, 1520 Stone Church Rd. E., Hamilton

Cult Following
Unlike the musical acts that regularly grace the Burlington Performing Arts Centre stage, a show about coercive control is not something you can tap your toes to, but you’ll be riveted to your seat nonetheless. The Psychology of Cults, hosted by cult interventionist Mike King, explores manipulation and control techniques, discusses famous cases like Heaven’s Gate and NXIVM, and even touches on how to spot warning signs in daily life. The evening promises to be one of true edutainment, and the takeaway will be a clearer understanding of what makes you – and
others – tick. Tickets are here. Oct. 28, 7:30 p.m., 440 Locust Street, Burlington

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.