You can’t make us feel guilty about slowing our pace to a casual saunter. July in Burlington isn’t like July in most other mid-size Canadian cities. Our magical lakefront becomes a focal point for the entire community; both for the relief it brings via cool, gentle breezes, and the space it provides to stretch out and think about…what else, ICE CREAM!
Summertime… and the living is easy, and tasty!
Just about everyone has a favourite summer song but we suggest Billy Stewart’s trilling version of the George Gershwin classic from his iconic musical opera, Porgy and Bess. Stewart’s track includes unique vocal gymnastics that ‘ole George never could have imagined while composing his languid tribute to the hot, lazy days of July and August in the Deep South. Moving quickly is the last thing on anyone’s mind unless it’s to grab another cold drink or head out in search of a sweet, frozen treat.
This is Prime Ice Cream Season in Burlington. And, prime construction season here at the Molinaro Group. The only double-dipping we’re doing right now is in loads of dirt we’re removing to build the foundation and three levels of parking at Paradigm’s Grand Finale. You might have seen and heard the vehicles coming and going on Fairview Street. Sure, there’s a commotion, but the good news is, the ice cream business is NOT affected. We wouldn’t dare.
By all means, swing by and check on our progress (and snazzy new hoarding!) before moving on to the good stuff. Ice cream by the lake is almost of right of passage for Burlington residents. If you haven’t done it yet, then you must be new here. There’s more for those with big appetites. Wonderful aromas will be wafting over Spencer Smith Park later in the month, attracting curious palates from all over town. The Burlington Food Truck Festival takes over the waterfront during the weekend of July 21-23. An estimated 30 mobile kitchens will be offering an array of delicacies, accompanied by cold beer and live music. Admission is free. That’s a convoy we can all get behind.
Here’s a sampling of what else is happening in July:
- Canada Day Festivities, Spencer Smith Park: Saturday, July 1, 8:00 am – 11:00 pm. Includes live entertainment, food and marketplace vendors, and a fireworks display at 10:00 pm also marking Burlington’s 150th
- A Call From Our Ancestors Drum Circle, Central Park: Saturday, July 1, 1:00 pm -3:00 pm. A Canada Day event to acknowledge that the land on which Burlington sits is part of the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit.
Free Summer Concerts in the Park, Central Park Bandshell: July 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30. Click here for the complete concert schedule. Bring your own lawn chairs and refreshments.
Korean War Memorial Service, Naval Ships Memorial/Spencer Smith Park: July 23, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. Tens of thousands of Canadians served in the Korean War (1950-1953) and later as peacekeepers. This event honours their service and the lives of the hundreds of Canadians lost in the conflict.
- Burlington Centre Lions Farmer’s Market, Centre parking lot: Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm. Shop for locally-sourced fresh produce, bread and other food products in support of Lions Club projects.
The Niagara Escarpment is nothing if not a vast garden, unlike any other in the country. Head for the wild and explore the spectacular terrain at the abundant parks and trails minutes outside of town. The Royal Botanical Gardens is in peak bloom with plenty of manicured ground for those seeking a more refined excursion with handy amenities and specific attractions. Here’s a sampling of what’s on schedule:
Music in the Garden, Hendrie Park: Sunday Evenings, July 2 – August 27. A ticketed event featuring local and accomplished musicians. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets for ground seating.
The Enchanted Garden, Rock Garden: Friday, July 14 – Sunday, July 16. A ticketed event with reserved entry times. Recommended for families with children aged 4 to 7.
RBG After Dark: Enchanted at Twilight, Rock Garden: Thursday, July 13, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. A ticketed event billed as a celebration of “fantasy, myth and a touch of magic.” The event includes food and drinks and is restricted to 19+.
Some events recur throughout the month. Visit the RBG website for full details and daily listings.
Hopefully, by now you’ve had a chance to listen to Billy Stewart’s rendition of Summertime.