Wrap up experiences this gift-giving season
From must-see shows and creative studio time to thoughtful subscriptions and the glories of local nature, there are plenty of ways to show your love to friends and family with events, adventures and learning opportunities.
We Are the Champions
Experience the power and glory of Queen's iconic music performed live by the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. This rock symphony tribute on Jan. 20 brings to life beloved classics like "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Somebody to Love," and "Under Pressure," honouring legendary frontman Freddie Mercury. Through The Music of Queen, the HPO shares Queen's timeless catalogue while staying true to its mission of “engaging, educating and inspiring” the greater Hamilton community. Relive the magic of one of the world's greatest bands, right here in Hamilton
Hpo.org
Sew Perfect
Unleash your loved one’s inner designer with Hamilton's eco-conscious sewing studio, Empire Make Space. This collaborative studio aims to empower sewers of all levels to sustainably create unique pieces from rescued fabrics while helping divert textile waste from landfills. For the seasoned sewer, the studio’s memberships provide full access to industrial machines, large workstations, and discounted reclaimed fabrics, for unguided creation time. For those wanting to learn, Empire’s one-on-one lessons teach sewing basics by working on a small take-home project. This season, join the maker space movement and turn discarded fabrics into beautiful, conscious designs.
Empiremakespace.com
Nature’s Passport
Give the gift of preserving nature's wonder for future generations. Get outside more, connect with nature and explore the breathtaking beauty of Hamilton's green spaces with a Hamilton Conservation Area membership pass. An HCA pass unlocks outdoor adventures to more than 10 conservation areas across the area, including oases like Christie Lake, Dundas Valley, Fifty Point, Tiffany Falls and Valens Lake. Hike trails, observe wildlife, discover heritage villages, and make memories across forests, wetlands and waterfalls. Memberships also help fund conservation efforts and environmental education across the watershed and with the pass in your pocket, you’ll nevernot have something to do!
Conservationhamilton.ca
SEE THE COMPREHENSIVE HCM GIFT GUIDE HERE!
Lush Escape
Treat a loved one to year-round botanical wonder with a Royal Botanical Gardens membership. Recipients will have access to sprawling gardens, trails, and exhibits for the year. From spring blooms to winter light displays, RBG offers natural beauty in all seasons. Members also get discounts on dining, shopping, and programming, plus reciprocal free admission and discounts to over 200 gardens and arboreta across North America. Support RBG's conservation efforts with every visit while enjoying a local oasis of flowers, woodlands, wetlands and more.
Rbg.ca
Potter’s Present
Shape creativity into tangible ceramics with an introductory wheel-throwing workshop. Creative Insight’s two-hour sessions guide beginners in learning essential throwing techniques with hands-on practice at the wheel, while more experienced ceramicists can even further hone their skills. Take home up to three hand-shaped pieces, glazed and fired by Creative Insight’s experts. Workshops for those ages 16 and up run every weekend. But if the budding potter in your life is between 12 to 15 years old, they can arrange workshops on an as-needed basis. It's the perfect low-commitment way to dip your toes into the medium’s possibilities.
Creativeinsightpottery.com
Silver Screen
Membership has its perks, indeed! Anyone can experience Hamilton's historic Westdale theatre as an insider and support a premier indie cinema and performance venue with a low-cost membership. Perks range from discounts on movie tickets, concessions, and events to complimentary screenings, depending on membership level. For those on the extra-nice list, the Cinephile membership offers a free ticket to every film. Since reopening in 2019 after community-led restorations, The Westdale has offered a cultural hub for film, music, comedy, community and more. Now members get the VIP treatment knowing they’re also sustaining an iconic landmark.
Thewestdale.ca
Shake Your Groove Thing
Relive the Motown magic with Theatre Ancaster's toe-tapping concert tribute in April and May. Featuring local performers and artists, this showcase celebrates Detroit's iconic soul hits and legendary artists. Get ready to sing and dance along as their talented cast and live band faithfully capture the magic of that Motown sound. Nurturing a love of music since 1997, Theatre Ancaster continues its tradition of community entertainment with this must-see show.
Theatreancaster.com
Bloom Box
Bring nature's beauty home each month with Billie Floral's curated flower subscription. Artist Janna hand-selects seasonal blooms and foraged elements to craft stunning monthly arrangements. As a waste-conscious florist, she employs creative techniques like avoiding floral foam to minimize environmental impact. Her passion for music, poetry and art influence whimsical, emotive designs. Surprise a loved one with three months of Billie's imaginative bundles or vase arrangements. With thoughtful personalization and artful execution, each delivery tells a story through flowers and a monthly subscription speaks volumes all season long.
Billieflower.co
Branching Out
Reconnect with your wild side on a thrilling treetop adventure at Treetop Trekking. Soar above the forest floor on ziplines boasting breathtaking views, or have fun with aerial games set high in the treetops. With activities tailored for all ages and skill levels, you can share an unforgettable experience with family and friends. Little ones will love exploring the wonders of nature up close in the enchanting Treewalk Village. Be sure to check the age and size requirements before booking your adventure.
Treetoptrekking.com
The Arts Await
Give a backstage pass to the beloved devotees of the arts in your life. Art Gallery of Hamilton members gain unlimited free admission to thought-provoking exhibitions, exclusive event invites, and discounts on programs, classes, and at the café and shop. Support local and provincial arts and culture while connecting more deeply through member tours, talks, and reciprocal entries at a wide range of Ontario galleries. Family memberships also enjoy free entry for kids 17 and under. Support of the AGH means more than entries to exhibits, though. It means supporting its legacy of showcasing varied perspectives, nurturing art education and being part of a community that values creativity, inclusion and elevating regional talent.
Artgalleryofhamilton.com
Shirley, You Won’t Want to Miss This
Theatre Aquarius continues its 50th anniversary season with Shirley Valentine, a story of awakening and self-discovery. Shirley is a dissatisfied Liverpool housewife who finds escapism by talking to her kitchen wall. When the chance to visit Greece arises, will Shirley step outside her routine and reignite her zest for life? This heartwarming one-woman play humorously explores everyday frustrations and the power of change. Led by director Tracey Flye, Shirley Valentine is a joyous reminder that it’s never too late to find your true self. Don’t miss Theatre Aquarius bringing this uplifting tale to sparkling life in March.
Theatreaquarius.org
Brew Crew
For the beer lovers in your life, Grain & Grit Brewery’s 2024 membership offers beer, bonuses, and brewery perks all year long! Members get a monthly beer allotment, including a doue-pack of cans AND one 12-ounce pour per month, discounts on purchases, early access to small-batch, limited releases and other fun surprises. Extending the membership to a full year offers even more value, including name display, private event discounts and renewal deals. With more than $1,000 in beer, merch and experiences, this membership far pays for itself. So why are they even offering it, you might ask? It’s the definition of a win-win. You secure savings and specialty brews while this hometown craft brewery garners support in a meaningful way. We’ll “cheers” to that! Sign up by Dec. 30 to be part of the community of committed craft beer lovers.
Grainandgritbeer.com
