Discover Festivals and Community Events in Hamilton, Ancaster, Caledonia and Surrounding Area
Throughout the year, Hamilton, Ancaster, Caledonia, and the surrounding area are rich with festivals and community events that celebrate the region’s unique cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. From music festivals and art fairs to food events and seasonal celebrations, there’s always something happening to bring communities together. In Hamilton, events like the Hamilton Fringe Festival showcase local theatre talent, while the Supercrawl arts festival fills the downtown with live music, art installations, and food trucks, drawing visitors from near and far. The city’s waterfront also hosts events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and cultural celebrations that highlight the diversity of the community.
These festivals and activities provide ample opportunities for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together in Hamilton, Ontario. The following festivals and events are presented in various locations in Hamilton, Ancaster, Caledonia and the surrounding area.
Festivals and Community Events in Hamilton, Ancaster, Caledonia and Surrounding Area
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May 2 - 3, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Door Open Hamilton
Various Locations
www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/pages/events/hamilton
Doors Open Hamilton is an annual event inviting the public to explore the city’s most historic, unique, and architecturally significant buildings for free. Held each spring, it offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at heritage sites, cultural landmarks, and modern marvels, celebrating Hamilton’s rich history and vibrant community. Come and celebrate music in The Hammer. With theatres, churches, music schools, pubs, costume shops and a lab that researches the effect of music on the human psyche, Hamilton has it all. Many sites will have music, demonstrations and participant interaction. Enjoy Doors Open Hamilton Region — and explore over 50 sites, including four walking tours.
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May 1 - 3, 2026
Hamilton Spring Home & Garden Show
Dave Andreychuk Mountain Arena, 25 Hester St, Hamilton
jenkinsshow.com/spring-home-show-information/Hamilton
The Hamilton Spring Home & Garden Show showcases the latest ideas for home improvement, landscaping and seasonal living. Visitors can explore expert advice, inspiring displays, and innovative products for indoor and outdoor spaces. It’s a lively marketplace where homeowners connect with professionals and discover fresh ways to enhance their homes and gardens.
May 8, 2026 | 5:00 pm
Art Crawl on James North
James St N, Hamilton
tourismhamilton.com/event/art-crawl-on-james-north
Come explore Art Crawl in Hamilton, a monthly street festival blending the feel of a block party with creative discovery. Held on the second Friday, James Street North comes alive with art, music, and food. From May to October, pedestrian-only streets invite visitors to wander, explore galleries, and enjoy performances.
May 9, 2026 | 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
2026 Sew Hungry Food Truck Festival
Ottawa Street (Barton to Main), Hamilton
live-city-of-hamilton.pantheonsite.io/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/2026-sew-hungry-food-truck-festival
Sew Hungry returns to Hamilton from 11 am to 9 pm, bringing over 35 food trucks and 20+ eateries to Ottawa Street. Stroll, sample diverse bites, shop local, and enjoy live music along Ottawa Street North from Barton to Main at this lively annual festival.
May 16, 2026 | Noon to 4 pm
Kitchen Garden Spring Opening
Dundurn National Historic Site, Hamilton
hamiltoncivicmuseums.ca/events/kitchen-garden-spring-opening-2
Celebrate the spring opening of the Historic Kitchen Garden for the 2026 growing season. Enjoy free self-guided tours with sensory prompts, and explore seasonal sights and scents. Families can visit Sophia’s Garden, a child-focused interactive space filled with plants designed to spark curiosity and encourage kids to connect with nature.
May 17, 2026 | 2 to 10 pm
Victoria Day Fireworks
Dundas Driving Park, Dundas (Main entrance is at Cross Street)
www.instagram.com/p/DWi-EdFj-tf
The Victoria Day Fireworks are back! Enjoy a free, family-friendly event at Dundas Driving Park. This prominent community event is now presented by Dundas Lions Club and generously supported by the City of Hamilton.
Admission: FREE! (We encourage cash donations at the gate to support the Rotary Club and its various community initiatives, e.g. local youth scholarships and food bank contributions).
Programming from 2 pm to dark:
- Music Fest & Kids Fest
- Artisan market
- Food trucks, coffee, snacks & glow sticks available for purchase before the fireworks
May 23 - 24, 2026 | 11 to 4 pm
Boats in the Park
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology
tourismhamilton.com/event/boats-in-the-park
Visit the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology for a weekend of boat-themed family fun. Watch model boat demos, ride a miniature train, tour the museum, and enjoy hands-on crafts while celebrating Hamilton’s rich boat-building history with activities for all ages.
May 26 - 28, 2026
Hamilton Children’s Water Festival
Pier 4 Park, 64 Leander Dr, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/people-programs/outreach-education/water-outreach-education/childrens-water-festival
The Hamilton Children’s Water Festival is an opportunity to educate students about the importance of water conservation, protection, awareness, respect, science, technology, history and health. Teachers can register to attend one of three festival days. Space is extremely limited and spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Each activity is based on the Ontario Curriculum and is provided by our close community partners such as Green Venture, the Royal Botanical Gardens, the City of Hamilton, McMaster University and many more!
The ultimate goal is to foster decision-makers, initiate the process of behavioural change, empower children to initiate change within their homes, schools and communities, and to encourage children to become catalysts for change by taking information and newfound respect back to their environment.
May - June 2026
Hamilton Black Film Festival
Various Locations
www.hamiltonblackfilmfestival.com
The Hamilton Black Film Festival (HBFF) is an annual festival that showcases cultural and traditional films of African/Caribbean, Native, Asian, and Middle Eastern filmmakers, and other films of ethnic inclusion. Hamilton Black Film Festival (HBFF) continues to uphold our commitment to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and social change. We continue to create opportunities for emerging black filmmakers, encouraging them to fearlessly tell their stories and shape the narrative of our shared humanity. Through the medium of film, they have shared stories that have made us laugh, cry, reflect, and question. We have shed light on the untold stories. This year we are fortunate to have films with good stories that highlight BIPOC’s journey across the globe: Canada, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Itay, Martinique, the United Kingdom, and the USA.
June 6, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.
MacKids Walk & Wheel
Mona Campbell Track, McMaster University
In Support of McMaster Children’s Hospital and Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre Programs
hamiltonhealth.ca/mackids-walk-wheel-2026
MacKids Walk & Wheel brings together families, healthcare supporters and community groups for a fun, inclusive event at McMaster University’s Mona Campbell Track. Participants walk, run or wheel in support of McMaster Children’s Hospital and Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre programs, helping fund vital pediatric care and services across the region.
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June 6 - 7, 2026
Re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek
Battlefield House Museum & Park, Stoney Creek
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/hamilton-civic-museums/battlefield-house-museum-park-national-historic-site/re-enactment
Step into the past at the Battle of Stoney Creek re-enactment, a dynamic event that brings Canada's history to life. Witness accurate musket fire, intense skirmishes, and detailed period costumes as reenactors portray the decisive clash of 1812. This immersive experience honors heroic legacies and offers visitors a rare glimpse into the strategic turning points of the War of 1812.
June 7, 2026 | 10 am to 4 pm
Open Streets Hamilton
King Street East, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/getting-around/biking-cyclists/open-streets-hamilton
Open Streets Hamilton transforms King Street East into a lively car-free corridor. From John Street to Gage Avenue, enjoy activation hubs, live performances, local food, sports, and family-friendly activities—all celebrating active living, inclusivity, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
June 17 - 20, 2026
SOMETHING ELSE! Festival
28 James Street North, Hamilton
somethingelsefestival.com
If you're looking for a unique way to experience arts and music in Hamilton, SOMETHING ELSE! Festival is a must this summer. Held in venues across the city, it celebrates creative music, new jazz, and bold artistic expression with a packed lineup of performances and events all weekend long.
June 19, 2026
FrancoFEST
Gage Park, 1000 Main Street E.
en.francofesthamilton.ca
Bring the whole family to Gage Park for FrancoFEST, Ontario’s largest Francophone festival. This vibrant weekend celebrates French language and culture with live concerts, family-friendly activities, and creative experiences, offering something for all ages in a lively, welcoming atmosphere filled with music, art, and community spirit.
June 19 - 21, 2026
Soaring Spirit Pow Wow Festival
Battlefield Park, 77 King Street, Stoney Creek
soaringspiritpowwow.com
Enjoy a weekend of celebration at the Soaring Spirit Indigenous Festival and Pow Wow in Battlefield Park. Marking National Indigenous Peoples Day, this three-day event features music, storytelling, a vibrant arts and food market, plus powerful Pow Wow dancing, drumming, and sunrise ceremonies.
June 27 - July 1, 2026
It’s Your Festival
Gage Park, 1000 Main Street E.
itsyourfestival.ca
Round up the family for a weekend of festivities at Gage Park when It’s Your Festival returns this summer. Enjoy a lively long weekend filled with music, entertainment, arts, and food, bringing friends and families together for a fun, welcoming celebration with something for everyone to enjoy.
July 10 - 11, 2026
Because Beer Craft Beer Festival
Pier 4 Park, Hamilton, ON
www.becausebeer.ca
Because Beer is Hamilton’s premier craft beer and cider festival, held at Pier 4 Park. Attendees can sample a wide range of craft beers and ciders, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in food from local vendors. The festival offers both single-day and weekend passes, with tasting cups and sampling tokens included. It’s a vibrant event combining great brews, delicious food, and live performances from bands like Billy Talent, Tokyo Police Club, and PUP.
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July 31 - August 2, 2026
Lucky Lion Night Market
Bayfront Park
luckylionnightmarket.ca
Bring your friends and family out for a culinary adventure when the Lucky Lion Night Market returns to Bayfront Park this spring. Celebrate Asian culture and sample culinary delights from diverse and talented vendors. While enjoying your food, stroll through the park and experience interactive lion dancers. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
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July 1, 2026
Canada Day
Bayfront Park, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/hamilton-canada-day-bayfront-park
Prepare for a day packed with delightful children’s recreation and art activities that will spark their creativity and keep them entertained. Fireworks display and when the sun sets, make sure you stick around for the grand finale! At 10 pm, prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular custom fireworks display that will light up the night sky in a brilliant celebration of our great nation.
July 2026
Hamilton Arts Week
Various Hamilton Locations
www.hamiltonartscouncil.ca/artsfestival
Hamilton Arts Week is a vibrant, multidisciplinary festival celebrating artistic expression across the City of Hamilton and beyond. Running from June 3–12, 2025, it invites the public to discover new art forms, connect with local creators, and engage with inspiring work. Presented by Hamilton Arts Council with support from the City of Hamilton, Canada Council for the Arts, and Canadian Heritage.
July 31 - August 2, 2026
Festival of Friends
Gage Park, 1000 Main Street E.
tourismhamilton.com/event/festival-of-friends
Pack up the family and head to Gage Park for the Festival of Friends. This free summer event features a diverse lineup of live music, plus food trucks and artisan vendors. It’s a lively weekend of music, art, and community fun for all ages.
July 31 - August 2, 2026
Lucky Lion Night Market
Bayfront Park
luckylionnightmarket.ca
Bring your friends and family out for a culinary adventure when the Lucky Lion Night Market returns to Bayfront Park this spring. Celebrate Asian culture and sample culinary delights from diverse and talented vendors. While enjoying your food, stroll through the park and experience interactive lion dancers. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
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August 28 - 30, 2026
Winona Peach Festival
Winona Park, 1328 Barton Street, Stoney Creek
winonapeach.com
The Winona Peach Festival at Winona Park, 1328 Barton Street, Hamilton, is a cherished community celebration of Niagara’s peach harvest. Visitors enjoy fresh peaches, baked treats, live entertainment, midway rides, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities. This vibrant summer event highlights local food, culture, and community spirit in a lively park setting.
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August 21 - 23, 2026
Dundas Cactus Festival
Downtown Dundas, Dundas
dundascactusfestival.ca
Bring the entire family to Dundas for the Dundas Cactus Festival. This family-friendly street festival offers local vendors, diverse food options, kids’ activities, and live music across multiple stages. It’s a lively summer weekend filled with entertainment, community spirit, and something for all ages to enjoy.
September 11 - 13, 2026
Supercrawl
James St. North, Hamilton
supercrawl.ca
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend as Supercrawl 2026 takes over James Street North in Hamilton, Ontario. This beloved annual festival brings together music, visual arts, fashion, theatre, food, and more, making it one of Canada’s top cultural events. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Supercrawl offers a vibrant, immersive experience that showcases the creative heartbeat of Hamilton.
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September 17 - 20, 2026
173rd Binbrook Fall Fair
Binbrook Fairgrounds, 2600 Regional Road 56, Binbrook
binbrookfair.org/binbrook-fair
Experience the 173rd Binbrook Fall Fair in Binbrook, Ontario, from September 2026. Canada’s longest-running agricultural celebration promises four days of family fun, local culture, and lively entertainment, featuring country charm, community spirit, and traditional fair attractions. Celebrate harvest season with rides, games, exhibits, and the vibrant energy of this beloved autumn festival.
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September 19 - 20, 2026
Hamilton Comic Con
Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton
hamiltoncomiccon.com
Hamilton Comic Con returns September 19 - 20, 2026, at the Hamilton Convention Centre. Meet celebrity guests, explore Artist Alley, shop unique collectibles, and enjoy the thrilling Horror Legends Reunion. With cosplay, panels, and fandom fun for all ages, it’s a weekend no pop culture fan should miss.
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September 24 – 27, 2026
176th Ancaster Fair
Ancaster Fairgrounds, 630 Trinity Rd S, Jerseyville
www.ancasterfair.ca/visit-the-fair
Celebrate nearly two centuries of tradition with thrilling midway rides, agricultural showcases, live entertainment, and family fun. Experience one of Ontario’s oldest and most beloved fairs, where community spirit and country charm come together for four unforgettable days.
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September 20, 2026 | 9 am - 2 pm
Vintage Wheels & Wings
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
www.warplane.com/events/upcoming/event-details.aspx?eventId=299
VEHICLE PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED! To display a vehicle, the cost is $10 – includes one vintage vehicle, driver and three passengers.
Drop by to view the beautiful collection of vintage cars and aircraft. Pre-registered car owners can have our photographers take pictures of their car in front of a vintage aircraft for a minimum cash donation of $5 to the Museum. Consider a VINTAGE vehicle to be one that was manufactured 20 years ago or more (so 2004 or older). As this is an outdoor event, some car owners may elect to leave early if inclement weather is expected.
September 27, 2026 | 10 am to 4 pm
Open Streets Hamilton
King Street East, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/getting-around/biking-cyclists/open-streets-hamilton
Open Streets Hamilton transforms King Street East into a lively car-free corridor. From John Street to Gage Avenue, enjoy activation hubs, live performances, local food, sports, and family-friendly activities—all celebrating active living, inclusivity, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
October 2026 | 12:00 - 4:00 pm daily
Annual Thanksgiving Herb Giveaway
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Blvd., Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/annual-thanksgiving-herb-giveaway-1
Celebrate the season at Dundurn National Historic Site’s Annual Thanksgiving Herb Giveaway, 610 York Blvd., Hamilton. Visitors can take home freshly harvested herbs from Dundurn’s historic gardens, perfect for festive cooking. This family-friendly tradition connects past and present, offering a fragrant, hands-on way to mark Thanksgiving with community and history.
October 2026 | 9 am – 7 pm daily
2026 Mum Show
Gage Park Greenhouse, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/fall-garden-mum-show
The Fall Garden & Mum Show is Ontario’s largest Chrysanthemum show presented by City Horticulture staff. The show started in 1920 and a new theme each year has taken us through dramatic scenes of flowers, colours and displays with over 200 varieties of Chrysanthemums, and more than 100,000 blooms grown at Gage Park Greenhouse.
The show takes place indoors at the Gage Park Greenhouse. Over 20,000 square feet of display space houses the show and plenty of free parking.
October 2026 | 11:00 am - 3:30 pm
Trick or Trains! Halloween Train Day
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site. 900 Woodward Avenue, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/trick-or-trains-halloween-train-day
All aboard for spooky fun at Trick or Trains! Halloween Train Day at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology, 900 Woodward Avenue. Families can enjoy train-themed Halloween activities, crafts, and treats in a historic setting. Costumes encouraged—celebrate the season with a festive mix of history, fun, and Halloween spirit!
October 2026 | 10 am – 4 pm
Halloween Pumpkin Party
Westfield Heritage Village, 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton
westfieldheritage.ca/event/halloween-pumpkin-party-251025
Visitors, young and old, are encouraged to wear their favourite Halloween costumes as they enjoy the sites and activities planned for the day. Enjoy traditional pumpkin and Halloween-themed games, try a scavenger hunt, check out carved pumpkins in the barn, and capture a family photo at one of the photo backdrops. There will also be cooking and baking demonstrations at a number of the historical homes, and each prepared recipe will contain pumpkin as an ingredient. Take a recipe home to try yourself! This event is intended for all ages, and there will be a couple of spooky options for those feeling a little more brave.
November 1, 2026 | 10 am to 4 pm
Gluten Free Goodness Expo
Ancaster Fairgrounds, Marritt Hall (Main Building), 630 Trinity Rd S, Jerseyville
gfgoodnessexpo.ca
The Gluten-Free Goodness Expo is a vibrant marketplace celebrating gluten-free living, bringing together over 50 vendors offering food, drinks and specialty products. Visitors can explore new flavours, discover innovative gluten-free options and connect with experts. It’s a welcoming food festival designed to make gluten-free lifestyles easier, healthier and more enjoyable.
November 4 - 6, 2026
AGH art+music+food Festival 2026
Art Gallery of Hamilton
www.artgalleryofhamilton.com/aghfest
This dynamic Festival will immerse visitors in a world of creativity, featuring multimedia visual art, live performances, storytelling, and a wide variety of music. Interactive workshops will engage artists and visitors of all ages, offering hands-on experiences that connect the community with arts and culture in meaningful ways. Explore the transformative power of expression and connection as we come together to celebrate creativity in all its forms.
November 13 - 15, 2026
Hamilton Woodworking Show
Caledonia Fairgrounds, Riverside Exhibition Centre, 151 Caithness St. E.
woodshows.com/Hamilton
The Hamilton Woodworking Show brings together skilled artisans, hobbyists and industry experts for a weekend dedicated to craftsmanship and creativity. Held at the Caledonia Fairgrounds’ Riverside Exhibition Centre, the event features tools, demonstrations, workshops and innovative products, offering inspiration and practical insight for woodworkers of all experience levels and interests.
November 14, 2026
Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
www.warplane.com/events/upcoming/event-details.aspx?eventId=290
Come join the merriment and frivolity at the annual Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance as the Toronto All-Star Big Band performs nostalgic tunes from the 1940s. Feel the spirit of that era as you dance among the vintage aircraft of the Canadian Warplane Heritage. Dressing in vintage fashions and Allied Forces uniforms of the 1940s is encouraged but not necessary.
Swing Dance Lessons – Prizes – Giveaways!
Donations of nonperishable food are also being accepted for the Hamilton Food Share.
November 2026 - January 2027 | 12 – 4 pm
Victorian Christmas
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/victorian-christmas
Enjoy the beauty of a mid-19th-century family Christmas celebration at Dundurn Castle. See the historic home decorated in Victorian splendour with cedar boughs, ribbons and dried flowers by The Garden Club of Hamilton. Bring your family and share a Hamilton holiday tradition.
November 2026 | 7 – 9 pm
Christmas Evening Tours
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/christmas-evening-tour
Enjoy a unique opportunity to see Dundurn Castle decorated for Christmas in the evening. Begin your experience with carol-singing in the front hall, followed by an extended tour of Sir Allan MacNab’s home and a chance to sample an assortment of traditional foods served in Dundurn’s historic kitchen.
To January 2027 | 12 – 4 pm
Victorian Christmas
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/victorian-christmas
Enjoy the beauty of a mid-19th-century family Christmas celebration at Dundurn Castle. See the historic home decorated in Victorian splendour with cedar boughs, ribbons and dried flowers by The Garden Club of Hamilton. Bring your family and share a Hamilton holiday tradition.
December 2026 | 7 – 9 pm
Christmas Evening Tours
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/christmas-evening-tour-0
Enjoy a unique opportunity to see Dundurn Castle decorated for Christmas in the evening. Begin your experience with carol-singing in the front hall, followed by an extended tour of Sir Allan MacNab’s home and a chance to sample an assortment of traditional foods served in Dundurn’s historic kitchen.
December 2026 | 6 – 9 pm
A Candlelit Christmas Evening Tour at Whitehern
Whitehern Historic House & Garden, 41 Jackson St. West, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/hamilton-civic-museums/whitehern-historic-house-garden-national-historic-site
Enjoy the exceptional ambiance of evening lights as we explore how different generations of the McQuesten family celebrated Christmas. Visitors will be treated to light refreshments in The Stable and an opportunity to view the home with the joyous sounds of Christmas music and the warm glow of candlelight. The historic home is fully decorated including three Christmas trees, complete with period toys and beloved artifacts nestled underneath. The dining room table is beautifully set with the original china the family used for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
December 2026 | 2 pm
Annual Stoney Creek Santa Claus Parade
Along King Street, Stoney Creek
santaparadestoneycreek.com
The parade route begins at St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School at 127 Gray Road and travels west on King Street East to Battlefield Drive. The Stoney Creek Lions Club will be doing their annual food drive for the Stoney Creek Food Bank during the parade. The Lions will be coming along the route with shopping carts to collect non-perishable food items for our local food bank. Stoney Creek Santa Parade is presented by Heritage Green Community Trust, the City of Hamilton’s City Enrichment Fund and the Volunteer SC Parade Committee.
December 2026 | 10 am – 12:30 pm
Elf Club: A Children’s Cooking Workshop
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/elf-club-childrens-cooking-workshop
Come to Dundurn Castle and join the Elf Club and help make cookies for the season. This fun children’s cooking workshop includes a boiled pudding demonstration and hands-on cookie making in the historic kitchen. Then you’ll tour the historic house and taste some plum pudding before packing up your cookies for home.
December 2026 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Christmas in the Woods
Westfield Heritage Village 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, Ontario
westfieldheritage.ca/event/christmas-in-the-woods-251207
Gather together with family and friends for a winter wonderland of fun for Westfield Heritage Village’s Christmas in the Woods. The Village will be decorated for the season with swags, greenery and old-fashioned decorations, and offers delightful activities inside and out. Christmas baking, carol singing, Father Christmas, and a model train diorama will delight visitors. Dress for the weather and enjoy the great outdoors with wagon rides, free popcorn, a scavenger hunt, and a lovely walk in the winter forest. Then warm up by the roaring fire, while enjoying some old-fashioned Christmas treats. The General Store and Gift Shop will be open, and the Ironwood will have delicious light refreshments available.
December 2026 | 11 am – 3 pm
Christmas Model Train Show
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site, 900 Woodward Avenue, Hamilton
https://www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/christmas-model-train-show-1
Join the Golden Horseshoe Live Steamers at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology for a Christmas Model Train Show in the Woodshed. Volunteers will be running scale-model steam and electric trains decorated for the holidays. Visitors of all ages are invited to see various miniature train layouts and speak with club members. Please note that due to space restrictions, this is a smaller show than in previous years.
Visitors will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis as room capacity permits.
January 2027
Hamilton Winterfest
Auchmar, Hamilton
www.hamiltonwinterfest.ca
Experience Winterfest safely – in-person and online! Hamilton Winterfest is a flurry of activities that are local, imaginative, and unique to Hamilton and its surrounding areas. More than 60 events across the city, from pancake breakfasts to art exhibitions, and concerts to sporting events. Check out all that’s on offer from the Hamilton Public Library and our Civic Museums. Loads of FREE events.
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To January 2027
Whitehern: A Christmas for the Ages
Whitehern Historic House & Garden, 41 Jackson St. West, Hamilton
tourismhamilton.com/partner/whitehern-historic-house-garden
Enjoy this special time of year as we explore how different generations of the McQuesten family celebrated Christmas. Once a year, the family’s toys are gathered under a whimsically decorated tree. The table is beautifully set with the china the family used for Christmas and New Year’s. Come to Whitehern and experience the holidays as they were celebrated in the 1850s, 1870s, and 1930s.
Closed: Mondays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day
To January 2027 | 12 – 4 pm
Victorian Christmas
Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/victorian-christmas
Enjoy the beauty of a mid-19th-century family Christmas celebration at Dundurn Castle. See the historic home decorated in Victorian splendour with cedar boughs, ribbons and dried flowers by The Garden Club of Hamilton. Bring your family and share a Hamilton holiday tradition.
January 2027 | Noon – 4 pm daily
Winter Break Drop-In Activity Centre: Sweetland!
Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site, 900 Woodward Avenue, Hamilton
www.hamilton.ca/things-do/festivals-events/events-calendar/winter-break-drop-activity-centre-sweetland-0
This winter break you can satisfy that sweet tooth at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology! Our free, drop-in activity centre is taking the shape of a giant candy-themed board game. Visitors can roll the sugar cube dice to explore a sweet, sweet world. Museum staff will provide demonstrations on candy and sugar science intermittently throughout the afternoon.
To February 2027
Hamilton Winterfest
Auchmar, Hamilton
www.hamiltonwinterfest.ca
Experience Winterfest safely – in-person and online! Hamilton Winterfest is a flurry of activities that is local, imaginative, and unique to Hamilton and its surrounding areas. More than 60 events across the city, from pancake breakfasts to art exhibitions, and concerts to sporting events. Check out all that’s on offer from the Hamilton Public Library and our Civic Museums. Loads of FREE events.
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February - March 2027
Frost Bites Festival
Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre, 876 Cannon St. E.
hftco.ca/frost-bites
Now in its 10th year, Frost Bites is a one-week community-embedded festival with a smorgasbord of FREE activities and events for all ages. Enjoy storytelling in French and English, music workshops, ice skating, traditional hide tanning, Anishinaabemowin language games, and more — culminating in a handmade lantern-led Procession of Light through the streets of Ward 3. There is so much to keep the whole family engaged for a week in February!
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March 2027 | 9 am to 5 pm
HeritageCon 18
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope
www.warplane.com/events/upcoming/event-details.aspx?eventId=285
Organised with the IPMS Hamilton Modellers Club, HeritageCon takes place inside the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, where historic aircraft set an atmosphere unlike any other in the modelling community. The event combines impressive scale model displays with deep aviation history, offering a full day of craftsmanship, learning and community connection. Widely regarded as Canada’s leading plastic scale model contest and sale, HeritageCon draws participants and enthusiasts from across Ontario, Quebec and the northeastern United States for a memorable and inspiring experience.
April 2027 (Race Day)
April 2027 (Virtual Race)
Around the Bay Road Race
Downtown Hamilton
bayrace.com
Hamilton’s Around the Bay Road Race is the oldest on the continent, first run in 1894, three years before the Boston Marathon. Rich in tradition, it has been won by the best from around the world, including Boston Marathon winners and Olympic gold medallists. Become part of the continuing tradition by running this challenging course around Hamilton’s natural harbour!
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April 2027 | Open during regular Gallery hours | Free Admission
2027 AGH Art Sale
Art Gallery of Hamilton
The Art Gallery of Hamilton (AGH) is delighted to announce the 2026 AGH Art Sale, set to take place from Wednesday, April 23, to Sunday, April 27, 2025. As the largest art fair west of Toronto in Ontario, this annual event offers art enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to acquire exceptional works from contemporary artists across the region.
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Promote Your Festival or Community Event with Toronto On Demand!
Are you organizing an exciting festival or community event in Hamilton, Ancaster, Caledonia and Surrounding Area? Get the visibility your event deserves by featuring it on Toronto On Demand! Our platform connects locals and visitors with the best cultural, entertainment, and family-friendly events happening in the city.
Submitting your event is quick, easy, and free—just fill out our Event Submission Form to reach a wider audience. Whether it’s a seasonal festival, food fair, art show, concert, or charity event, we’ll help spread the word.
Don’t miss this opportunity to boost attendance and engagement! Join hundreds of organizers who trust Toronto On Demand to showcase their events to an active and engaged audience. Submit today and make your event a must-attend experience!