 By Gazette Staff
August 7th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
At first glance, building a tower out of toothpicks or launching a balloon rocket might just seem like play, not reading. But STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) and literacy go hand in hand. In fact, hands-on learning can strengthen some of the most essential literacy skills for growing readers.
What STEAM Teaches Beyond Science
STEAM starts with science, but it doesn’t end there! When kids engage in STEAM activities, they’re also:
 When kids engage in STEAM activities, they’re also: Building vocabulary – Kids learn new words like balance, gravity, dissolve, or predict in meaningful hands-on contexts.
Practicing sequencing – They follow multi-step instructions and describe what they did in order, using words like first, next, then, and last.
Improving comprehension – They connect what they read (in a story or instructions) to what they observe, build, or create.
Developing communication skills – They ask questions, explain ideas, and reflect on what happened. These are key parts of both science and storytelling.
 Check out these engaging picture books that explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) in fun and accessible ways. Each title includes a simple activity idea you can try at home — perfect for sparking curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning in young readers! bplearly Pairing STEAM with storybooks makes learning even more powerful. A story can spark curiosity, introduce a challenge, and help children connect big ideas to their everyday world. Stories help bring STEAM ideas to life, making them more relatable and easier to remember.
STEAM at Home
You don’t need fancy gadgets or expensive ingredients for STEAM learning at home. Everyday household objects can be the perfect tools for creative discovery. Try these easy ideas with what you have on hand:
- Plastic cups: Build towers, bridges, or try stacking challenges and sound experiments.
- Cardboard boxes or tubes: Make ramps, marble runs, or invent something new!
- Straws: Design and launch paper rockets or building structures and shapes.
- Toothpicks or spaghetti: Construct bridges or 3D shapes.
- Water bottles: Make a sensory bottle, lava lamp, or mini tornado in a bottle.
- Cereal or pasta: Count, sort, and make patterns.
- Buttons or bottle caps: Use them for measurement, pattern play, or crafts.
- Glass jars: Grow a seed, get a closer look at an insect, or make a musical instrument.
Explore, Discover, and Create with Us
Looking for more inspiration? Here are a few ideas from Children’s Librarian Kathleen:
- Try a story-inspired experiment – Read a book together and then encourage your child to come up with an experiment related to the story’s problem. Check out the booklist below for STEAM-filled picture books.
- Get outside with non-fiction – Pick out a non-fiction book about bugs, birds, flowers, or trees, and then head to your backyard or local park. Ask questions and investigate! Our always-available OverDrive/Libby ebooks are a great place to start.
- Join a library program – Explore hands-on fun at one of our upcoming STEAM programs for kids.
Looking for More Ideas?
Need a little inspiration? Our friendly librarians and programmers are always happy to help you make the most of your library. Come visit us—we’re always happy to see you.
 By Gazette Staff
August 5th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Discover the stories behind Burlington’s most unique spaces during Doors Open Burlington this Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
Visitors can go behind the scenes of local businesses and heritage sites, taking a look at the people and places that help shape our community.
All of the participating sites offer FREE admission and onsite activities. Plan your route using this Google Map.
 By Pepper Parr
August 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
August has always been a nice month for the Performing Arts Centre.
Their now decade-old event improves year over year.
The show goes on rain or shine – if it rains the event is moved inside
The cash bar was a nice addition.
A Friday performance has been added and xxx
The lineup for the three-day event:
 It gets a little tight in terms of space
By Gazette Staff
August 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington isn’t exactly jumping this long weekend.
However, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival will be taking place in Toronto, bringing with it an array of vibrant festivities located just steps away from the Exhibition GO Station.
On August 2, GO Transit is increasing train service along Lakeshore West to help you get to and from the Grand Parade.
Lakeshore West:
- NEW 10:32 a.m., 12:02 p.m., 12:32 p.m., 2:02 p.m., and 2:38 p.m. train trips departing Union Station to Exhibition GO.
- NEW train trip departing 5:28 p.m. from Exhibition GO to Union Station.
 The colour and the extravagance is stunning. You’ll never regret watching the event. While most of the parade is free to watch, you can save 20% off with PRESTO Perks on ALL Caribbean Carnival ticketed events.
Customers can also take advantage of our $10 weekend day online passes that allow you to GO wherever you want, plus kids 12 and under can ride the GO for free! Riders can also transfer for free with One Fare between GO Transit and TTC.
This year will mark the 58th anniversary of the Caribbean Carnival, an annual celebration of Caribbean culture and traditions, with more than one million participants expected to attend this year. Learn more about taking GO Transit to this year’s Toronto Caribbean Carnival HERE.
 By Pepper Parr
July 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The plot thickens.
In a CLOSED session, the Halton Region Council decided to close the Heritage Services Unit in January of 2026.
The Heritage people oversee a collection of 30,00 items.
About 18,400 “objects”: Tools, uniforms and clothing, furnishings, personal and medical items, communication devices, natural history specimens, archeological finds, and artworks.
About 3,100 photographs.
About 13,000 archival materials: Maps, documents and other materials.
 Ground floor is used for meetings and events, museum is on the second floor. The 2023 budget for Heritage Services $630,000; in 2024 it was $657,000, and in 2025 it was $682,000
These amounts were not a strain on a Regional budget of $1.2 billion.
There are three full-time Heritage staff members, and one vacant full-time position. There are no part time Heritage staff.
Other than the cost of storing the collection, there do not appear to be any other costs.
So why shut it down? And why do it in secret?
Bits and pieces of information are beginning to come in.
This is a story worth following.
Related news story:
Heritage Services to be shut down
By Gazette Staff
July 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE: The price is $125 each (plus Eventbrite fee). They usually get close to the maximum number – so buy soon! It’s rain or shine – there are large tents for seating and eating and all vendors are under canvas too.
Sitting at a table in Spencer Smith Park on a sunny day, enjoying a fine meal is about as good as it gets.
Get your tickets HERE Take friends with you
 By Gazette Staff
July 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for the Civic holiday on Monday, Aug. 4. For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the long weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca.
Fireworks reminder
Fireworks are not permitted to be set off on the August Civic holiday. As per the City’s bylaw, family (low-hazard) fireworks can only be set off on Canada Day and Victoria Day. For more information regarding who to contact if you have a personal safety concern related to the use of fireworks, visit burlington.ca/fireworks.
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services |
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, Aug. 4. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 905-335-7777. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, Aug. 4. For real-time bus information and schedules, visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca. Customer Service and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Monday, Aug. 4. |
| City Hall |
Service Burlington and the Building, Renovating and Licensing counter on the main floor of City Hall at 426 Brant St., will be closed on Monday, Aug. 4.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices. If your request is urgent, call 905-335-7777 to connect with the City’s live answering service.
For online development services, MyFiles can be used by residents who have applied for Pre-Building Approval. Check the status of Pre Building Approval applications at burlington.ca/MyFiles. |
| Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office |
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, Aug. 4.
Except for the Civic holiday closures, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services. Payment of Provincial Offences fines is available 24/7 at paytickets.ca. |
| Parking |
On Sunday, Aug. 3 and Monday, Aug. 4: Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
On Saturday, Aug. 2: Pay parking downtown is required in high-demand parking lots (Lots 1, 4 and 5) and all on-street metered parking spaces. A three-hour maximum is in effect for all on-street spaces. Free parking is available in the remaining municipal lots and the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
NOTE:
- The Waterfront parking lots (east and west at 1286 Lakeshore Rd.) do not provide free parking on holidays
- Paid parking is in effect at Beachway Park (1100 and 991 Lakeshore Rd.) on weekends only (including holidays) and at the Beachway overflow lot (Lakeshore Road and Willow Avenue) using HONK Mobile
- Parking exemptions or City-Wide Parking Permits are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit bylaw.burlington.ca for parking exemptions.
|
| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Drop-in swimming and other drop-in recreational activities
- Nelson Pool and Splash Park (4235 New St.), Mountainside Pool and Splash Park (2205 Mt. Forest Dr.), and LaSalle Wading Pool and Splash Park (50 North Shore Blvd. E.) are open for swimming on the Civic holiday, Monday, Aug. 4 (weather permitting)
- Access Storage presents free swimming on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at LaSalle Wading pool and Splash Park (weather permitting)
- Outdoor pool lap swims and recreational swims are walk-in only, with no reservations
- Indoor pools are not open for drop-in swimming on the Civic holiday, Monday, Aug. 4
- Appleby Ice Centre has a variety of drop-in skating programs on Saturday, Aug. 2
- Adult and Adult 55+ regularly scheduled drop-in programs will continue Saturday, Aug. 2. Please visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay for schedules, information, and reservations.
Splash Pads
The City’s 10 splash pads are located throughout the city and are free to use. To find a splash pad near you, visit burlington.ca/splashpads.
Outdoor Activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend, including:
- trails and multi-use paths
- parks and playgrounds
- picnic site reservations for La Salle Park (50 North Shore Blvd E.) or Hidden Valley Park (1137 Hidden Valley Rd.)
Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Golf
Tyandaga Golf Course tee times can be booked online at tyandagagolf.com or by calling 905-336-0005, ext. 2.
Play Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of outdoor and indoor play equipment available to borrow at no charge. Equipment pickup is on Thursdays, and return drop off is on Tuesdays at Haber Community Centre (3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.). Borrow lifejackets for the family for the long weekend, add some fun outdoor games to your Love My Neighbourhood event, or try out a variety of play equipment that we offer. Learn more at burlington.ca/playlending.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you in person at recreation facility counters during program times.
Customer service is also available over the long weekend:
|
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Aug. 4. Essential services will be provided as required. |
By Pepper Parr
July 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In a report that was CONFIDENTIAL and later made public the Region of Halton made it known that it would cease delivering heritage services as of January 1, 2026.
All this was done during a CLOSED session of Regional Council on July 9th.
There was nothing on the agenda about the matter, there is no mention in the minutes on this matter.
The Region is “deaccessioning: (their word, not mine) and dispersing items from the Region’s collection of 30,000 historical artifacts and archives.
The Collection consists of artifacts, archival materials, and photographs and includes artifacts like tools and equipment, uniforms and clothing, furniture, personal items, medical tools and equipment, communication tools and equipment, natural history specimens, archaeological materials, works of art, and other miscellaneous items.
Halton Region communications specialist Isabel Contin shared more details with CBC Hamilton about what the collection includes. She said there are:
About 18,400 “objects”: Tools, uniforms and clothing, furnishings, personal and medical items, communication devices, natural history specimens, archeological finds, and artworks.
About 3,100 photographs.
About 13,000 archival materials: Maps, documents and other materials.
The recommendations in Confidential Report directs Regional staff to:
- deaccession the historical Collection in its entirety;
- disperse the deaccessioned items from the Collection;
- • work with the Local Municipalities and local community heritage organizations to address any impacts or opportunities resulting from these changes.
Pending approval from Council to deaccession the Collection in its entirety, Regional staff will implement a process for dispersing the Collection – that is, removing these items from the Region’s ownership and responsibility.
In undertaking this work, Regional staff will make every effort to continue public ownership of the items and to keep the items located within Halton.
Dispersal approaches that result in Halton residents gaining greater access to and value from the Collection’s items will be prioritized.
 A historical bicycle, seen here on display at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, is among the 30,000 items in the Halton Heritage Services collection that will need new homes. (Submitted by Meredith Leonard) In undertaking this process, the Region will observe and adhere to all relevant ethical guidelines and accepted museum standards, practices, and procedures, including the Deaccessioning Guidelines produced by the Canadian Museums Association. Regional staff will also review and address all legal considerations related to deaccessioning, including undertaking due diligence to ensure no restrictions are in place for donated items. Thorough documentation and record-keeping will ensure transparency and accountability.
The approaches to dispersing items from the Collection, in order of priority/preference, are discussed below.
Transfer to Willing Organizations
The primary and preferred approach to dispersing items in the Collection will be transfer to a willing Local Municipality, institution, agency, or organization within Halton. This approach is consistent with the goals of maintaining public ownership and presence in Halton, and increasing the value provided to Halton residents.
As part of the review process, stakeholder interviews identified organizations with a potential interest in receiving items from the Collection. These were initial discussions, and no formal agreements were made. However, for illustrative purposes, potential partners could include Conservation Halton, the Halton Regional Police Service, Royal Botanical Gardens, Country Heritage Park, the Milton Historical Society, the Local Municipalities, and local libraries. Transfers to these organizations would be strictly voluntary and will differ based on the level of interest and how items from the Collection align with their individual mandate and capacity.
While transfer to a willing partner within Halton is the preferred approach, this may not always be necessary, appropriate, or possible. For example, there may be items that lack a clear connection to Halton’s heritage or that have a broader heritage value. In these cases, transfer to organizations outside Halton may be considered.
 Halton Heritage Services staffers created this historical display for the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, Ont., as part of their outreach work in Halton Region institutions. The department will be shuttered at the end of the year. (Submitted by Meredith Leonard) In cases where an immediate opportunity for transfer is not identified, the dispersal approaches discussed below will also be considered. In some instances, the dispersal approaches below may not be suitable. This could occur where items have a clear connection or provide a unique or valuable representation of Halton’s heritage. While the ultimate intent is to remove all items in the Collection from the Region’s ownership and responsibility, there may be limited instances where these items require continued storage until such time as an appropriate recipient is identified. While Regional staff will work to minimize the scope and duration of any continued storage, continued stewardship and safeguarding of items of significant historical value to Halton will remain the first priority.
This will ensure a responsible and appropriate approach to dispersing items from the Collection is implemented.
Public Auction
As noted earlier in this report, there are objects in the Collection that do not have a clear value or direct relationship to Halton or its heritage. In these cases, public auction may be a valid method for dispersal. Where this approach is taken, advance public notice will be provided.
In accordance with relevant museum standards, practices, and procedures, any revenue realized from this approach would be used to support heritage in Halton. This could include providing funding to cultural heritage events supported by the Local Municipalities or to other organizations or efforts that support heritage in Halton. This approach presents another opportunity for the Collection to provide more value to Halton residents and ensures generating revenue for other non-heritage services does not become a driver for deaccessioning.
Disposal
Disposal will be used in instances where items pose a risk to the health and safety of individuals or have the potential to cause harm to other items in the Collection.
Disposal may also be used for items that are in poor condition or of poor quality and that cannot be placed through the other preferred methods described above. Expert advice will be sought as needed to ensure disposal is an appropriate approach and to manage risks in the case of hazardous items.
Indigenous
In parallel to the overall deaccessioning and dispersal process described above, a separate and distinct process will be undertaken in partnership with the Region’s Indigenous Relations team to address the Collection and its approximately 20 items identified as potential Indigenous belongings. These items were added to the Collection between approximately the late-1960s and early-1980s and include beaded objects, bark and quill boxes, footwear, and gloves, among other items.
The Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada included a call for funding for the Canadian Museums Association to undertake a national review of museum policies and best practices to determine the level of compliance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (“UNDRIP”). In 2022, the Canadian Museums Association released “Moved to Action: Activating UNDRIP in Canadian Museums”, which provides information and recommendations on dismantling the parts of museums that continue to perpetuate colonial harm. The process undertaken by the Region will be guided by these documents, and in particular their content on repatriation/rematriation and collections management.
Next Steps
Given the size of the Collection and the complexity of deaccessioning and dispersal processes, it is anticipated that this will be a significant undertaking with an extended timeline.
Pending Council’s approval, Regional staff will initiate implementation of the direction described above and will work with the Local Municipalities and local heritage organizations to address any impacts or opportunities resulting from these changes, including exploring opportunities for the transfer of items from the Region’s Collection and to address any impacts to existing in-kind support or financial contributions provided by the Region.
Updates will be provided to Regional Council on the implementation progress as required.
———————–
The big question is: Why all the secrecy? Clearly, the Region didn’t want to continue spending taxpayers money on Heritage Services.
Why not just say so – and look to the public for ideas? That’s what public engagement is all about.
Lot of questions to be asked on this one.
We are indebted to Cheryl Hall for bring this story to our attention.
 By Hanna Moon
July 21st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor activities, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations. July and August are packed with exciting events in Burlington, offering plenty of options for residents and visitors to have fun and relax. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated summer happenings in the city.
Music and Festivals
 Burlington Performing Arts Centre The beloved Jazz on the Plaza series, presented by The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, returns this August. Taking place outside the centre from August 8th to August 10th, this free concert series highlights Canadian jazz artists throughout the summer. In addition, Burlington’s “Concerts in the Park” at Central Park offer a variety of musical genres, including jazz.
For those interested in cultural celebrations, the Burlington Latin Festival at Central Park runs from August 23rd to August 24th. This lively street festival features salsa, reggaetón, merengue, and more. Attendees can dance outdoors, sample authentic Latin cuisine, and enjoy performances that celebrate Latin culture.
The festive spirit of these music events shares a similar energy to online entertainment options. Speaking of this, Luckycasino recently launched in Canada provides another exciting choice for summer entertainment.
Art and Culture
Art lovers will appreciate the Burlington Art Walk on August 23rd, from 10AM to 4PM. This annual event, organized by the Elizabeth Gardens Creative Collective, invites the public to visit galleries and studios across the city. Over 40 local artists, makers, and educators will showcase their paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Visitors can enjoy live music, hands-on art activities, an art scavenger hunt, and the chance to purchase local artwork and handmade goods. The event takes place at Burloak Waterfront Park.
Burlington’s Heritage Week, scheduled for August 2nd to August 9th, celebrates the city’s diverse history. The week includes displays at City Hall, walking tours such as the Beachway Park Waterfront Trail, exhibits at the Joseph Brant Museum, and presentations by the Burlington Historical Society and the Royal Botanical Gardens. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Burlington’s rich past.
Culinary Events
 Food Trucks in Burlington offer a wide variety of foods. From July 18th to July 20th is the Burlington Food Truck Festival, a three-day event featuring 30 food trucks offering some of the best flavours in the country. Admission is free, with family-friendly activities, local brews, and live entertainment adding to the festive atmosphere.
 Spencer Smith Park. Ground Zero for Burlington. On August 10th, Lakeside À La Carte takes place at Spencer Smith Park. This ticketed fundraiser for Joseph Brant Hospital offers gourmet tastings and premium wines from top regional chefs and beverage producers. It’s a must-attend for food lovers. Top-notch live entertainment is also available, just like going to the best theatre this summer.
Vegetarians and plant-based eaters will enjoy Burlington VegFest on August 16th. This event celebrates plant-based living and sustainability with delicious vegan food, eco-friendly products, live music, and family-friendly activities.
For BBQ enthusiasts, Canada’s Largest Ribfest runs from August 29th to September 1st. This Labour Day weekend tradition features award-winning pitmasters from across North America, live music, a family fun zone, a vendor marketplace, and cold drinks by the lake. Ribfest is a perfect way to wrap up the summer season.
 RibFest- the lineups are long, but they move really quickly With such a full calendar, Burlington promises a lively and enjoyable summer. Check local listings and the Burlington Gazette website for the latest updates and detailed schedules.
 By Mariia Zaichenko
July 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
I moved to Canada in 2022 after the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. I’ve been living here for three years now. My husband has been a volunteer since 2014. When the full-scale invasion began, he joined the territorial defence forces. After the liberation of the Kyiv region, he returned home and continued his volunteer work. In 2025, he was called to serve and is now part of the Azov unit. It’s a difficult time, but I’m proud of his courage and dedication.
 Maria Zaichenko: a strong responsibility to tell the truth. I heard about the audition through some friends who are involved with the Ukrainian church community. As soon as I learned more about the play, I felt a strong desire to be part of it. I went to the audition, gave it my all — and now I’m honoured to be part of this meaningful production. This play is deeply personal. It reflects the pain and resilience of people affected by the war. For me, it’s not just a script — it’s part of my lived experience. It gives voice to what so many Ukrainians are feeling, both here and back home
I play a soldier — a woman who, after the full-scale invasion began, made the difficult decision to go and defend her country. What makes her story even more powerful is that she has a two-year-old child at home. Her husband had been living abroad and chose not to return when the war started. She’s a symbol of strength, sacrifice, and the painful choices many Ukrainians have faced — especially women.
 Maria Zaichenko plays opposite Peter Andersen in a scene taken from the play. Photo by Donald Cudmore It brings the human side of the war to life. It’s one thing to read the news, but another to feel someone’s story through theatre. It creates empathy and awareness, which is especially important when the conflict feels far away to many people here. Also, sadly, the war in Ukraine continues. This play is another important reminder to people that the war is ongoing and affects many lives every day.
In Ukraine, I performed in local theatre productions and worked on several film projects. Acting has always been a dream and a passion for me. Alongside my background in choreography and dance, bringing different characters to life gives me great joy. Here in Canada, I really appreciate the opportunities for growth, the freedom of choice, and the supportive environment that encourages personal and professional development. Living in such a diverse and welcoming country has been inspiring — the kindness of people and the respect for different cultures make it a wonderful place to call home.
 It’s emotionally intense. Sometimes it’s hard to hold back tears during rehearsals. But I also feel a strong responsibility — to tell the truth, to honour those affected, and to use art to keep the story alive. This production is more than theatre — it’s a form of resistance, remembrance, and connection. For me, it’s a chance to speak for those who can’t, and to remind audiences that the war isn’t just politics or headlines. It’s people, families, futures.
Book a ticket CLICK HERE
By Pepper Parr
July 12, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Performing Arts Centre has been running the Jazz on the Plaza event for close to ten years.
For three days in August some of the coolest Jazz heard in the city is played on the plaza.
They recently added a cash bar.
If the weather doesn’t work – the event gets brought indoors – where the sound is just as sweet.
Seating ai always a problem. There isn’t that much space on the plaza. Shutting down part of Locust from Lakesgore up to a little above Elgin would do wonders for the audience size.
Maybe in the future.
The event is free – sponsors are now part of the how the costs are covered.
 By Fredrik Stougaard
July 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor activities, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations. July and August are packed with exciting events in Burlington, offering plenty of options for residents and visitors to have fun and relax. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated summer happenings in the city.
Music and Festivals
 Jazz on the Plaza; a two day event every August. The beloved Jazz on the Plaza series, presented by The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, returns this August. Taking place outside the centre from August 8th to August 10th, this free concert series highlights Canadian jazz artists throughout the summer. In addition, Burlington’s “Concerts in the Park” at Central Park offer a variety of musical genres, including jazz.
For those interested in cultural celebrations, the Burlington Latin Festival at Central Park runs from August 23rd to August 24th. This lively street festival features salsa, reggaetón, merengue, and more. Attendees can dance outdoors, sample authentic Latin cuisine, and enjoy performances that celebrate Latin culture.
The festive spirit of these music events shares a similar energy to online entertainment options. Speaking of this, Luckycasino recently launched in Canada provides another exciting choice for summer entertainment.
Art and Culture
Art lovers will appreciate the Burlington Art Walk on August 23rd, from 10AM to 4PM. This annual event, organised by the Elizabeth Gardens Creative Collective, invites the public to visit galleries and studios across the city. Over 40 local artists, makers, and educators will showcase their paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Visitors can enjoy live music, hands-on art activities, an art scavenger hunt, and the chance to purchase local artwork and handmade goods. The event takes place at Burloak Waterfront Park.
Burlington’s Heritage Week, scheduled for August 2nd to August 9th, celebrates the city’s diverse history. The week includes displays at City Hall, walking tours such as the Beachway Park Waterfront Trail, exhibits at the Joseph Brant Museum, and presentations by the Burlington Historical Society and the Royal Botanical Gardens. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Burlington’s rich past.
Culinary Events
 Food Truck events have been taking place in Burlington for years – they get better every year. From July 18th to July 20th is the Burlington Food Truck Festival, a three-day event featuring 30 food trucks offering some of the best flavours in the country. Admission is free, with family-friendly activities, local brews, and live entertainment adding to the festive atmosphere.
On August 10th, Lakeside À La Carte takes place at Spencer Smith Park. This ticketed fundraiser for Joseph Brant Hospital offers gourmet tastings and premium wines from top regional chefs and beverage producers. It’s a must-attend for food lovers. Top-notch live entertainment is also available, just like going to the best theatre this summer.
Vegetarians and plant-based eaters will enjoy Burlington VegFest on August 16th. This event celebrates plant-based living and sustainability with delicious vegan food, eco-friendly products, live music, and family-friendly activities.
 Ribfest Burlington – the biggest in the province. Always lineups for the ribs. The different sauce offerings are what make them really special. For BBQ enthusiasts, Canada’s Largest Ribfest runs from August 29th to September 1st. This Labour Day weekend tradition features award-winning pitmasters from across North America, live music, a family fun zone, a vendor marketplace, and cold drinks by the lake. Ribfest is a perfect way to wrap up the summer season.
With such a full calendar, Burlington promises a lively and enjoyable summer. Check local listings and the Burlington Gazette website for the latest updates and detailed schedules.
By Louie Rosella
July 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In its Live and Play Plan, the City of Burlington calls Sherwood Forest Park a “major destination” park in the city.
 It was a small group – the biggest concern seemed to be space for cricket games to take place. Thursday night (July 3), in the midst of rugby practices, soccer games and playground play, a few dozen residents showed up to the well-known park at 5270 Fairview Drive to hear the latest updates on the proposed amenities for the park’s “revitalization.”
The informal outdoor, “public living room” style event offered plans for the new park, including renderings of the proposed amenities.
This includes a proposed, full-size cricket pitch on the west side of the park, which would replace an existing soccer field, more parking spaces to accommodate the anticipated increase in park goers, a new splash pad, and the redevelopment of the Sherwood Forest Park Community Centre.
The redeveloped facility should include a full-size gymnasium and indoor walking track, according to City staff at Thursday’s event.
Residents in attendance had some questions about the planned cricket field, concerned that it would essentially be replacing the soccer field.
However, Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman said this updated plan addresses community needs.
 Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman, to the left, listening to what those who attended the event had to say. “It’s all a question of whether you live here today or you live here in the future,” he told the Gazette. “The big issue is the changing character of our population; an increasing number of people who want to play cricket.”
Demand for cricket fields in Burlington is huge, City staff said, as there is just one dedicated cricket field in the city, located in Central Park.
Sharman said if residents were to walk around their neighbourhoods on the weekends, many would see the baseball diamonds being used for playing cricket.
Other residents, including Margaret Hughes, expressed concern that there was no immediate consideration being given to lighting the pathways that run through the park.
“In the winter time, people are walking through here in the dark at 5 p.m.,” she said.
City staff said lighted paths, ironically, can create safety issues, as the dark patches between lights create shadows that present hazards, such as hiding uneven pavement, ice patches, or even a potential attacker.
“Clearly safety is the priority,” Sharman said. “You look at the playgrounds. We turn the lights off at 11 p.m., for that very reason because we don’t to have people out there drinking beer and making noise in the middle of the night.”
Hughes and others understand the need for more cricket fields in the city.
“We’re running out of space in Burlington,” she said.
So, when could the cricket field be up and running?
“It’s dependent on a grant coming from the provincial government,” Sharman said. “We’re not expecting to get that answer for a number of weeks.”
 City Staff member explaining the big picture to a resident. Burlington has applied for a grant from the province’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund to help fund the Sherwood Forest Park project.
Development of Sherwood Forest Park is being guided by the 2016 Sherwood Forest Park Revitalization Plan; the City recently made major investments on the east side of this park by upgrading the ball diamonds, playground, and other features, the City said.
Sherwood Forest Park is located next to the Appleby GO Major Transit Station Area (MTSA), which is expected to experience significant population growth through intensification, the City said.
The City’s Live and Play Plan, which the City says is designed to ensure Burlington continues to grow as a sustainable, vibrant, and economically strong community, identifies Sherwood Forest Park as a “major destination” park.
Louie Rosella is a professor at Humber Polytechnic and a former journalist in the GTA.
By Staff
June 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, on
 A patriotic display like this on Canada Day – perhaps not in Burlington, but pride will swell across the country, even though Edmonton lost the chance to bring the Stanley Cup home. The notice from the city is a little early. They wanted to announce the plans for Canada Day celebrations at Spencer Smith Park that will kick off on July 1 at noon with fun for all ages! Visitors can enjoy a lively Kids Zone, local vendors, delicious food, and live performances throughout the day.
The official opening ceremony kicks off at 4 p.m., followed by a drone light show and a fireworks finale to cap off the night.
Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed for the Canada Day event. Various positions are available for anyone 14 years and older. Volunteer positions include set-up, tear down, and event support.
To volunteer, visit burlington.ca/volunteer, click on Festivals and Events to register and apply.
This event is funded by the Government of Canada.
July 1 events at Spencer Smith Park
Canada Day Shuttle and Burlington Transit
Downtown parking is in high demand during Canada Day festivities. Residents are encouraged to consider other transportation options such as cycling, walking, carpooling or taking Burlington Transit.
To accommodate increased volumes of traffic Burlington Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule on Canada Day. Plan your trip and enjoy the festivities with ease by using Google Maps on your favourite transit app.
The City is also offering a free Canada Day shuttle from Burlington Centre Parking Lot Entrance 1 (Old Navy) beginning at noon. The shuttle operates on a continuous loop until 11:30 p.m., transporting guests to and from Downtown Burlington (430 John Street).
 By Pepper Parr
June 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The headline read: Prepare for a decade of lower living standards – with the subheadline reading: Today’s Canadian dream is to make the next mortgage payment without having to borrow to pay for it.
 In the same newspaper, on the same day another headline read: “CEO pay rose almost 20% last year on strong stock process.”
The headline on the editorial page: The slow crawl of cities on housing reform.
In Burlington, the Performing Arts Centre announced they would be open
Monday and Tuesday, from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Access to drinking water, washrooms, seating in BPAC’s climate-controlled lobby
On-leash pets welcome.
No word on if the bar will be open.
What does one make of a world like this?
 By Pepper Parr
June 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It is a question that is being asked at almost every level of society.
 They are alienated, depressed, struggling to find a direction – they can’t get out of the circumstances they are in on their own. Can we reconnect a generation? A mental health crisis is gripping young people, with rates of depression, anxiety, and loneliness rising. As social bonds fray and digital life deepens isolation, experts are sounding the alarm and demanding action.
Numerous organizations are beginning to explore the complex drivers of youth wellbeing, highlighting opportunities to rebuild social ties, foster resilience, and develop lasting strategies to improve the mental health of young people.
The Gazette would like to hear what people in Burlington feel about this issue and invite them to leave their views in our comments section, which you can access at the bottom of this story.
The politicians talk about it; it is hard to identify anything they have done that is making a difference.
Parents feel lost as they cope with children who have to deal with being left out – day in and day out.
By Staff
June 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Burlington Performing Arts Centre loves our creative community, and are inviting local artists and musicians of all backgrounds to apply for a series of upcoming opportunities to share your work in our 25/26 Season and beyond.
Whether you’re a poet, musician, dancer, storyteller, or creator of any kind — we want you to be part of this growing community.
Apply now and we will be in touch if we find a good fit!
Apply HERE
By Pepper Parr
June 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The story of the week has to be the announcement by the Art Gallery that they wanted to tear down the existing building and erect a new three-level structure – at a cost of at least $116 million.
 Art Gallery Chair Susan Busby on the right wanders where Executive Director Sankey is going with the presentation. While the gallery leadership did its best to assure council they had consulted far and wide on their plans, that wasn’t the feedback we have been getting.
Whatever changes are going to take place – it won’t happen overnight. Two things became very clear from the people we talked with – no one wanted their names used and every said they didn’t think the $116 million was a realistic number.
 View from the parking lot at the rear of the property.  Intersection of Lakeshore Road and Brock There is a Strategic Plan out there somewhere that the Art Gallery has yet to produce. Two people we talked with said they had seen the document. Staff at the AGB have yet to find it.
What we were able to get was the financial picture as it stood at the end of 2023.
There was an infographic on what took place in 2023.
By Staff
June 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather is going to be decent.
The breeze off the lake will make it a wonderful day.
And the bands will be on the stages.
Add the great deal on getting to Spencer Smith Park and you have as close to a perfect day as you are likely to get.
Park at the Burlington Centre and take the free bus to Spencer Smith.
 By Staff
June 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It happens once a year. The Performing Arts Centre holds an event that is for members only.
 Executive Director: Sara Palmieri The occasion is used to announce what the line is for the season.
This year, the members got to meet the new Executive Director and some of the staff
Members were able to buy their tickets that evening and exclusively for the next few days.
Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, June 13, at noon.
The lineup has a lot of great talent.
Box office: 905-691-6000
Online: https://burlingtonpac.ca/events/
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