The Best Holiday Events In Burlington

With temperatures dropping and the days getting shorter, the holidays seem to be right around the corner! Though the sun begins to set at 5pm, we love this time of year as there’s a magical feeling in the air. Everyone begins to anticipate the holiday season, and all the fun activities that come with it! We’re getting ready for long winter walks, hot chocolate by the fire, visiting Christmas markets, and admiring the holiday lights. We’ve rounded up 5 fun events happening in Burlington to get you excited for the winter season. The North Coal Christmas Market This year’s North Coal Christmas Market will take place on their patio on the 10th, 11th and 12th of December. Join them for a day of eating, drinking, and shopping local! Guests can also enjoy their firepits, the new Muskoka Lounge, and other holiday activities. Visit their website for a glimpse into their 2019 Christmas Market, and for more details about this year’s event. Burlington Festival of Lights Back for the 26th year in a row, Burlington’s Festival of Lights starts on November 26th and runs all the way to January 8th. Burlington residents will have the opportunity to explore Spencer Smith Park and view all the beautiful displays. Lights will be active from 4pm to midnight every day, and all day on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Orthodox Christmas, and New Year’s Eve! For those who wish to stay warm and toasty, take a drive along Lakeshore Road, beside the waterfront and view the attraction by car. Bring your family and friends to experience the magical light festival and get into the holiday spirit! Santa’s Holiday Magic Trail Santa will be driving an adorable antique firetruck throughout various Burlington neighbourhoods on December 4thand 5th, from 10am to 5pm. For all guests’ safety, this year Santa will not be accepting letters or posing for photos. Check their website for all updates and for a map of Santa’s route. Attendees can also use the hashtag #SpotSantaBurlON on social media to let others know of Santa’s location in the neighbourhood. Victorian Christmas Tour & Treats In a guided tour, travel back in time to the historic Ireland House! At this intimate event, you’ll begin with a toast at the Oakridge Interpretive Centre followed by shortbread, ginger cake, and figgy pudding samples. After the tour, enjoy the outdoor open fire, sip some wassail, and roast chestnuts to truly get into the Christmas spirit. You’ll also go home with a delicious box of treats! This special tour takes place on December 3rd and 4th, get your tickets here. Jingle Bell Race This event is just outside of the Burlington area, taking place at the Royal Hamilton Yacht Club. Come out and celebrate the festive season with an in-person holiday race! Participants will receive a post-race breakfast, medal, and a gift. There is an option to complete the race virtually for those who do not wish to participate in person. The race takes place on November 28th, you can purchase your tickets here! How are you celebrating the holidays this year?
5 Virtual Events To Do For Spring Break

Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected, from video chats with family members to virtual events we can attend with friends. The Burlington community in particular has multiple virtual events happening over the next few weeks. If you’re looking for a way to entertain your family over spring break, look no further! We’re got five activities for you to take your family on a virtual adventure from the comfort of your own home. Comedy Show Do you have kids interested in comedy? Then you’re in luck! Comedian Paul Bennett is hosting a family friendly virtual show, ‘Guess What’ where different comedians perform live stand up. The show is hosted with Paul’s daughter and in-between comics, kids have a chance to tell their own jokes. Performances are happening once a month, with the next one on April 17th. Workout Bored of your regular home workouts and looking to try something new? Exhale Pilates offers multiple virtual options so you can get in a fun sweat session without leaving your condo! With their ‘Exhale At Home’ memberships, you get access to their classes, workshops, recipes and more. If you prefer a less regimented schedule, there are drop-in yoga, circuit, weight, and pilates classes. Lasty, Explore Pilates offers 45-60 minute wellness workshops, an activity the whole family can do! All virtual classes and workshops are on their Exhale Pilates app which is available for download on iPhone and Android. Library Programs During spring break, the Burlington Public Library is holding virtual programs for kids of all ages. From coding to dance class to teen trivia, there’s something for everyone. Register for their virtual programs on the Burlington Public Library website, and get ready for a week of fun! Concert It’s probably been a while since your last in-person concert, however, many artists and venues are holding virtual concerts for people to enjoy from their livings rooms. Originally from Burlington, Juno Award winning indie pop band Walk Off The Earth is doing a virtual performance of their own! On April 23rd, join them for a live virtual concert broadcasting from the Danforth Music Hall. With high quality audio, multiple cameras and sharp visuals, this concert will be a treat for the whole family! Museum Experience As Burlington’s community museum, Joseph Brant highlights the culture and development of the city. There are three permanent galleries, open space for travelling exhibitions, and multiple education programs for students. Additionally, this museum offers virtual field trips and homeschool programs for children to learn about Burlington’s history. Take your kids on a virtual field trip and discover ‘Growth and Change in Plants’ or learn about the city’s heritage with ‘Early Burlington’ and enjoy as a whole family! What virtual events are you planning for this spring break?