Happy Friday!

The lazy, hazy days of Summer are anything but; they’re chock full of outdoor events, festivals, activities, markets and more.

New

Free Walking Tours

Whether you’re a local or visitor, a new free walking tour in downtown Burlington is a great way to get acquainted – or reacquainted – with the city!

Running Thursdays at 10:30am and 1:30pm and Saturdays at 1:30pm, the 1.5-hour leisurely walks give you a taste of Burlington’s cultural, waterfront, and culinary hidden gems.

Meet outside the Visitor Information Centre at 414 Locust St. (underneath the waterfront parkade, which is free on Saturdays!)

Advanced registration is required, but walk-ups welcome as space allows.

These walks are offered by Ontario Staycation Adventures and supported by Tourism Burlington.

Learn more here.

Featured Events

Movies by the Lake

Retro movies, free popcorn and an idyllic setting on Lake Ontario await at the annual Movies by the Lake in Spencer Smith Park Tuesdays through the end of August. Check out a downtown restaurant before the 9pm show, park for free after 6pm in municipal lots, or extend your weekend stay to include a movie night.

Farmers’ Markets

It’s prime season for fresh produce, baked goods and artisan creations at three seasonal farmers’ markets in Burlington: Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market open Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays;

Centro Farmer’s Market operating Sundays downtown; and the new Aldershot Farmers Market on Saturdays.

Music in the Garden at RBG

A visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens is worth the trip to see the gardens in full bloom but throw in musical and dining experiences like Music in the Garden, and you’ve got a full day – or more – of adventure for those who love outdoor art, food, gardens and music. Take the GO train to Burlington station and hop on the no. 1 Burlington Transit route to drop you at the front door.

Free Jazz on the Plaza

Enjoy emerging and established Canadian musicians in an al fresco setting at the free Jazz on the Plaza Saturday, August 10-Sunday, August 11 from 2-6pm on the plaza of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre downtown. Grab lunch at a l o cal restaurant first! Free parking evenings and weekends at the waterfront parking garage at 414 Locust St. right next door.

New: Music from the Rooftop

The Joseph Brant Museum is offering Music from the Rooftop experiences on Fridays this Summer. Enjoy local musicians, free snacks, lawn games and a spectacular waterfront view. And, access to the museum exhibits before the show is included. Families welcome.

Burlington Cruisin’ Car Show

Every Monday night (not including holidays), more than 400 classic car enthusiasts gather in the parking lot of the Burlington Centre. Visitors can admire the amazing collection, chat with collectors, take pics and dream about your future four-wheeled beast. It’s free to visit and park; a small fee to display.

Burlington Breweries: Tap Rooms & Sales

Burlington’s two breweries, Nickel Brook Brewing Co. and Burlington Brewery, invite you for in-person libations on their patios and in their tap rooms to say ‘thanks’ for your support during the recent LCBO strike. Online orders still welcome. Music, food, community vibes and unique craft beers make a tasty combination.

The Essence of Summer at The Pearle Hotel and Spa

Experience the essence of summer at The Pearle Hotel and Spa’s lakeside retreat nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario. Enjoy leisurely strolls through Spencer Smith Park, perfect for sunset picnics, or hop on the Pearle Hotel’s complimentary bicycles and explore local shops and markets. However you decide to spend your days, Burlington in the summer promises an extraordinary escape.

Book your next summer retreat with The Pearle Hotel and Spa and also get:

15% off rate
Valet Parking
2 x Complimentary Cocktails/Beverages

Book here

The Burlington Soccer Club is looking for Vendors to enhance our member experience at their end of season event on August 24^th.

Each event will see over 4,000 Burlington Residents participate in their final soccer game of the season and engage with vendors of all types who are looking to promote their business in Burlington.

Learn more here.

Indulge at Lakeside A La Carte

Indulge in the culinary creations and libations of dozens of local restaurants, wineries and breweries at Burlington’s ultimate summer garden party, Lakeside a la Carte, on Sunday, August 11 from 1-4pm in Spencer Smith Park . A fundraiser for Food for Life by the Burlington Central Rotary Club, sample savoury and sweet temptations all afternoon. Make it a two-for-one weekend and take in the Lakeside Under the Stars evening music and dining event on Friday, August 9. Book your hotel now.

Digital Visitor Guide

The digital 2024-2025 Visitor Guide is your one-stop resource for how to get to Burlington, ideas for families, outdoor enthusiasts or foodies, hotel options and exploring local neighbourhoods. Hard copies of the guide are available at visitor centres throughout the greater Toronto, Hamilton and Niagara region as well as the Burlington Visitor Information Centre.

See the Guide here

Joseph Tassoni Red Carpet Runway & Charity Show.

You’re invited to immerse yourself in the epitome of Canadian fashion at the star-studded Joseph Tassoni Red Carpet Runway & Charity Show. Join celebrities, leaders, and fashion models as they converge to showcase Joseph Tassoni’s latest collection for Fall/Winter + Spring/Summer 2025. Experience an evening celebrating community spirit and inclusivity at the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens, all in support of our cause: Mental Health

Dress Code: Embrace your individuality and what fashion means to you!

Get the tickets here