 By Gazette Staff
February 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The sweetest time of year returns starting on February 28, 2026, as Maple Season kicks off at Conservation Halton’s parks.
Running on weekends, holidays, and March Break until April 5, 2026, this cherished tradition invites guests to experience the transformation of maple tree sap into syrup at Mountsberg’s Maple Town and explore the Indigenous origins of maple sugaring at Crawford Lake Conservation Area.
 Natures gift
In the sugar bush at Mountsberg’s Maple Town, visitors can watch sap transform into syrup in the evaporator, warm up by a fireside lounge, or help their kids become ‘certified’ Sugar Rangers through fun challenges. Sweet samples of maple sugar and fresh syrup await, along with syrup drizzled pancakes at the Pancake Pavilion and maple treats available at the Country Store and Discovery Centre Gift Shop.
New this year, Maple Town extends beyond daylight hours with Syrup & Starlight, an exclusive two-night evening experience on March 7 and 28. Guests can enjoy a moonlit wagon ride, an exclusive tour of the Sugar Bush, an Indigenous food tasting, live fiddle music, and more. This limited-capacity event offers a magical new way to experience Maple Season after dark.
 A couple of sausages on the side would make this a perfect meal. Guests looking to enhance their visit can add a wagon ride or a maple sugar making workshop to their visit, or Talons & Tailfeathers for an up-close encounter with Mountsberg’s resident birds of prey. Maple Town visitors will learn about the history of sugar making from its Indigenous origins and early iron kettles to modern techniques, and about how Conservation Halton staff steward the sugar bush today.
At Crawford Lake Conservation Area, Sweet Water Season highlights the rich Indigenous heritage of maple sugaring. Guests can visit the Spirit of the Lake exhibit featuring works by Indigenous artists and an interactive holographic experience, then step back in time at the reconstructed 15th-century Longhouse Village, when maple sugaring marked the first harvest of the year.
Sweet Water Talks run throughout the day, inviting visitors to gather in the Longhouse Village and learn about how maple sugar was traditionally prepared in this part of Ontario. Guided tastings offer the chance to compare the unique colours and flavours of maple and birch syrups.
“Maple Season is a cherished tradition for so many families, and we’re always looking for new ways to deepen the experience,” said Brenna Bartley, Education and Outreach Manager at Conservation Halton. “This year, we’re especially excited to introduce Syrup & Starlight, inviting guests to enjoy the magic of Maple Season after hours—combining the warmth of maple traditions with the beauty of the night sky will be a special experience!”
For tickets, pricing, and details about Maple Season, visit conservationhalton.ca/mapleseason.
QUICK FACTS
- Maple Town location: Mountsberg Conservation Area, 2259 Milburough Line, Campbellville, ON L0P 1B0
- Maple Town will run weekends, holidays, and March Break until Sunday, April 5, 2026, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
- The Syrup & Starlight evening event will run on Saturday, March 7, and Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm
- Sweet Water Season location: Crawford Lake Conservation Area, 3115 Conservation Road, Milton, ON, L9T 2X3
- Sweet Water Season will run weekends, holidays, and March Break until Sunday, April 5, 2026, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- For more information or to purchase tickets, visit conservationhalton.ca/mapleseason
Conservation Halton is the community-based environmental agency that protects, restores and manages the natural resources in its watershed. The organization has staff that includes ecologists, land use planners, engineers, foresters and educators, along with a network of volunteers, who are guided by a Board of Directors comprised of municipally elected and appointed citizens. Conservation Halton is recognized for its stewardship of creeks, forests and Niagara Escarpment lands through science-based programs and services. Learn more at conservationhalton.ca.
 By Gazette Staff
February 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Saturday, February 28thth – 7:30 pm
Forged in a cauldron of raging, inspiring contemporary jazz, the Jeremy Ledbetter Trio pushes the boundaries of the genre, providing an undiluted display of rampaging energy. Audiences must exercise caution. People who see this band are rarely the same again.
If the Jeremy Ledbetter Trio were an inanimate object, it would be a runaway train.
On piano, Jeremy exudes nonstop energy alongside Grammy-nominated drummer Marito Marques and renowned electric bassist Rich Brown. Together, these three world-class musicians deliver up-tempo, genre-bending music unlike anything you’ve heard before.
Tickets
 By Gazette Staff
February 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
On March 2nd, a Special Meeting of Council will take place.
Among the several items on the agenda is the vote on whether or not to implement a two year lifting of the development charges developers are required to pay for the housing they build.
It is a complex question with numbers and percentages that boggle the mind.
Council is deeply split on the issue.
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns has gone on the offensive and is very much against going forward with the proposal that is being promoted by the West End Home Builders Association.
She has a Call to Action posted on her Facebook page.
 Kearns is addressing Council. Councillor Galbraith, on the left, listens patiently. This is a major issue. Inform yourself.
 By Gazette Staff
February 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 CNOY is a winterrific, family-friendly walk in support of charities that serve people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Eagles Nest is a proud partner of CNOY.
Walk Day is February 28, 2026
Since 2018 over 1300 people have walked in CNOY and raised over $400,000 for the affordable mental health services that Eagles Nest provides.
Walk starts at Memorial Park.
Registration is under the pavilion located by the skating loop.
Walkers will walk through the village of Waterdown stopping along the way at rest stops. The route will end up back at Memorial Park.
 Funds raised from Coldest Night support the mental health services that Eagles Nest offers. Read more about the services and supports we offer here
It’s a fun, family-friendly event for everyone!
You can choose your distance: either 2km or 5km
All walking routes are flat, starting at Memorial Park and winding through Waterdown village
After the walk, walkers are invited to join us at Youth Unlimited across from the park for a light meal
The 5km loop has additional hosted rest stops with complimentary snacks
Walkers are invited to join us indoors at Youth Unlimited located directly across the street from Memorial Park for a light meal.
 This is the time to donate – – funds raised get put to excellent use.
 By Pepper Parr
February 19th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Included in the list of items that would be discussed in a CLOSED session was:
 Providing confidential advice regarding the Lakeshore Music & Arts Festival. The outcome:
Direct the Commissioner of Community Services to proceed in accordance with instructions given during closed session discussions.
What does all this mean? First Council does not want to be all that transparent on just what is happening with the Lakeshore Music and Arts Festival (LM&AF)
The organization does have a three-year contract with the City and they are working through the details for an event that takes place June 20th and 21st; a little more than three months away.
It is a bit of a scramble for LM&MF. The organization has tremendous depth and a lot of experience. Nevertheless, they have had to go back to Council on something, and Council doesn’t want you to know all that much.
No word from the City on jyst where things stand on a Festival parade. The Mayor wants it, LM&AF don’t want to be part of it, at least not this first year. No money in a parade.
Councillor Sharman had the best idea – have the Teen Tour Band march along the Promenad to open the Festival.
The Mayor and several of the Council members are hoping a community group comes forward and volunteers to host the event. The City has some cash, (Mayor makes mention of $50,000),they are prepared to give a community group that decides to host the parade.
 The Burlington Teen Tour Band marching along the Spencer Smith Park Promenade
By Pepper Parr
February 18th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Greek mythology may not sound all that interesting – it can be.
Greek mythology is essential because it provides a foundational framework for Western art, literature, and language, influencing everything from the names of planets to modern branding (e.g., Venus/Aphrodite, Medusa logo Versace). It serves as a, timeless tool for understanding human psychology, morality, and societal structures, while offering enduring,, relatable stories about the human experience.
Natalie Haynes wrote No Friend to This House, a bold retelling of the myth of Jason and his Argonauts who set sail to find the Golden Fleece.
 What is the Golden Fleece and just who is Jason and his Argonauts ? Most people will think you are talking about the football team the Toronto Argonauts
Spend an illuminating afternoon with acclaimed novelist and classicist Natalie Haynes as she discusses her new book.
 Jason was best known, however, as the captain of the Argo, the ship in which the heroic Argonauts sailed to Colchis to steal the Golden Fleece. The journey is filled with danger for Jason and everyone he meets, and if he ever reaches the distant land he seeks, he faces almost certain death. Medea—priestess, witch, and daughter of a brutal king—has the power to save the life of a stranger. Will she betray her family and her home, and what will she demand in return? Medea and Jason seize their one chance at a life together, but their love is steeped in vengeance, and no one—not even those closest to them—will be safe.
A Different Drummer Books will be on site with books for sale and signing after the talk.
Register for this event:
About the Author
Natalie Haynes is the author of eight books, including the NYTimes nonfiction bestseller Pandora’s Jar, and the novels Stone Blind and A Thousand Ships, the latter of which was a national bestseller and short-listed for the 2020 Women’s Prize for Fiction. Haynes has written for the Times, the Independent, The Guardian, and the Observer. She lives in London, UK.
 By Gazette Staff
February 13th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 During the Family Day weekend, people across Ontario can fish for free from February 14 to 16 without purchasing a license or Outdoors Card.
Before heading out to ice fish, keep safety the top priority. Check conditions with local ice hut operators or anglers and remember that clear blue ice is strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is weaker.
Let someone know where you will be fishing and wear appropriate gear for warmth and safety.
Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits continue to be in effect as do restrictions in sanctuaries and other fishing regulations.
Recreational fishing is a vital part of Ontario’s economy, contributing significantly to local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing periods, such as Family Day weekend, encourage more people to discover the joy of fishing and help protect Ontario’s resource-based industry by promoting the many economic, social and environmental benefits that recreational anglers bring to the province.
 By Gazette Staff
February 11th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative offices will be closed for Family Day, on Monday, Feb. 16. For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the long weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca.
Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, Feb. 16. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 905-335-7777.
Burlington Transit
Burlington Transit will operate on a holiday schedule on Monday, Feb. 16. Customer Service and Specialized Dispatch will be closed.
Find real-time arrival information and plan your trip using Google Maps. From a mobile phone, access Google Maps and click on your bus stop to see arrival times. From a computer, select your bus stop, then click on ‘See Departure Board’ to view arrival times.
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 to all appointments and walk-in service on Monday, Feb. 16.
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, Feb. 16.
Except for the Family Day closure, 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, Feb. 15 and Monday, Feb. 16: Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
On Saturday, Feb. 14: Paid 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.
- 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 recreation activities
Indoor pools, including Aldershot (50 Fairwood Pl W), Angela Coughlan (2425 Upper Middle Rd.), Centennial (5151 New St.), and Tansley Woods (1996 Itabashi Way) are open on Family Day Monday, Feb. 16 for swimming. Tansley Woods Community Centre offers a Family Day craft drop-in and free Fit For Fun multi-sport drop-ins; pre-registration is recommended for Fit For Fun. Robert Bateman Community Centre (5151 New St.) offers drop-in open family gym times on Family Day; pre-registration is required.
Drop-in adult programs, child, youth and family programs, as well as drop-in swimming and skating times vary for the long weekend. For all schedules, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Cogeco Skating at Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond
The outdoor rink at 1340 Lakeshore Rd. will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., weather and ice conditions permitting. Residents are encouraged to call the ice conditions hotline at 905-335-7738, ext. 8587 before leaving to make sure the pond is open. The free skate lending program at the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond is available Monday to Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m., Friday 5 to 10 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. for Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Monday. For more information, visit burlington.ca/pond.
Cogeco Neighbourhood Rinks
The outdoor skating season is here. Find a Cogeco Neighbourhood Rink in your area at burlington.ca/neighbourhoodrinks. There are nine locations to choose from.
Outdoor Fun
Head outside and play in our parks with trails, disc golf at Tyandaga Golf Course (1265 Tyandaga Park Dr.), tobogganing and more. Explore all the options at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you over the holiday weekend:
- In person at recreation facility counters during program times (Feb. 14, 15 and 16)
- By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca (Feb. 14 and 15)
- By phone at 905-335-7738 (Feb. 14 and 15)
- Phone and email service are closed on Feb. 16
Roads, Parks and Forestry
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Feb. 16. Essential services, including winter control, will be provided as required.
 Burlington wants a Stage 2 designation.
 By Gazette Staff
February 8th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Long Weekend Events at Ontario Parks for Family Day
Family Day is a public holiday in Ontario, observed on the third Monday of February, providing a paid day off for most workers and a mid-winter break for schools.
Embrace the snow season with Ontario Parks by getting outside and enjoying some winter festivities during the Family Day long weekend.
The Ontario Parks Family Day 2026 blog highlights fun family events at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, Sibbald Point Provincial Park and Bronte Creek Provincial Park.
Looking for events at other Ontario Parks? Visit OntarioParks.ca/events for Family Day events and more
By Gazette Staff
February 4th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Wine for Friends, a signature fundraising event hosted by Rotary Burlington Lakeshore took place this evening.
The occasion was used by the Rotary Burlington Lakeshore to formally announce a $200,000 pledge to the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation in support of the For All Minds Mental Health & Addictions Campaign.
Why This Matters
Mental health and addictions services continue to see rising demand across Burlington and Halton Region. This $200,000 pledge represents one of Rotary Burlington Lakeshore’s most significant investments in local healthcare and underscores the power of community-led philanthropy.
By Gazette Staff
February 6th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
You might want to book your tickets for this March event. It will be one of those SOLD OUT occasions.
An Inspiring Evening with David Suzuki and Tara Cullis!
 We’re excited to share that BurlingtonGreen is partnering with the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) for a very special theatre experience on March 8th featuring David Suzuki and Tara Cullis.
What You Won’t Do For Love is an intimate and thought-provoking theatre experience that explores how love for each other, for community, and for the planet can inspire meaningful action on climate and environmental protection.
To celebrate this partnership, use promo code BPACGREEN for 25% off your tickets. It’s an opportunity to gather, reflect, and feel inspired by voices that have shaped environmental action for decades.
Join us for a night that brings together art, connection, and hope for the future.
Tickets HERE
 By Gazette Staff
February 4th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Heart to Heart: A Variety Show Celebrating Passions
Thursday, February 12th + Friday, February 13th : 7:30pm
Heart to Heart is a community variety show with a twist! With a dynamic mix of 18 local performers showcasing their talents through music, dance and comedy. This production explores the passions that connect us, whether it’s the spark of romance, the joy of a beloved hobby, or the comfort of family and friends.
BOX OFFICE
By Gazette Staff
February 4th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Family Day, the occasion when the province focuses on its families.
 They’ve been doing it for 20 years – the kids love them. The Performing Arts Centrre has put Splash,N Boots on the Main Stage an hour of children’s music.
Monday, February 16th | 1pm
Get the kids out of the house this winter!
Treat the family to an afternoon of family-friendly music with Splash’N Boots! This beloved Canadian children’s music duo has been spreading joy through their infectious music for over 20 years.
Ticket prices are reasonable, just $25 each
BOX OFFICE:
By Gazette Staff
January 27th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Belief in love at first sight began during the Victorian era.
Victorian Courtship!
This guided evening tour at Ireland House invites you to discover how the Ireland’s would have celebrated Valentine’s Day in the 1800s, and how some charming (and surprising) Victorian traditions inspired the way we celebrate today.
Along the way, explore the art of courtship and proper etiquette—and the Victorian belief in love at first sight. $15/person.
Click HERE for details.
By Gazette Staff
January 27th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Sudanese‑Canadian health researcher and writer Reem Gaafar discusses her award-winning debut novel, A Mouth Full of Salt.
 The story begins with the disappearance of a young boy in the Nile—a tragedy that unravels hidden secrets and stirs superstition in a small northern Sudanese village and follows the story through the eyes of three compelling women—teenager Fatima, struggling mother Sulafa, and matriarch Nyamakeem. Gaafar’s lyrical, evocative writing explores themes of patriarchy, racism, and colonial legacy while delivering a riveting story of identity and resilience.
Presented in collaboration with Invisible Publishing
About the Author
Reem Gaafar is a Sudanese public health physician, researcher, writer, and mother. She is published in both fiction and non-fiction circles, contributing to issues on public health and policy, society, racism, and women’s rights. Her novel, A Mouth Full of Salt, won the Commonwealth Foundation’s 2023 Island Prize for debut African novels.
Borrow A Mouth Full of Salt from our collection
Accessibility
If you need an accessibility accommodation during this program, please register early so we can confirm arrangements a few days before your visit.
By Gregory Livingston
January 26, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the defining features of Burlington’s nightlife is its close connection to local culture. On any given night, you might find acoustic performances at rustic venues on Brant Street, jazz trios playing in historic pubs, or open-mic sessions that attract the city’s creative minds. The live music scene here feels authentic — it’s about people, not spectacle.
 Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. Community-driven spaces like these form the backbone of Burlington’s evening atmosphere. Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. It’s this spirit that sets Burlington apart from larger urban centers nearby.
Beyond Bars – New Forms of Nighttime Entertainment
Food and drink are at the heart of Burlington’s night culture. The city has developed a reputation for its evolving culinary scene, where international flavors meet Canadian creativity. From intimate bistros serving local wine pairings to waterfront patios offering late-night tapas, Burlington transforms into a food lover’s destination once the lights dim.
Restaurants often double as social hubs, creating spaces that encourage connection. Visitors quickly discover that dining here isn’t just about the meal — it’s about the experience.
A Digital Twist to the Nightlife Scene
Entertainment in Burlington isn’t limited to physical spaces. Technology has expanded the way residents unwind, blending traditional leisure with digital experiences. Online platforms, streaming events, and virtual gaming spaces have all become part of how people relax after a long day.
In this modern shift, nightrush represents a growing category of interactive entertainment where timing and excitement converge. While Burlington’s streets hum with live energy, many locals also explore new forms of digital fun that fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. It’s this balance between the real and virtual that defines the city’s modern approach to recreation.
Where Nature and Nightlife Coexist
One of Burlington’s most iconic night scenes unfolds along its waterfront. As Lake Ontario reflects the soft lights of the pier, locals stroll, couples dine by candlelight, and live music drifts from nearby patios. The Burlington Pier itself has become a symbol of the city’s blend of relaxation and liveliness — a place where nature frames the social experience.
This connection to nature makes Burlington’s nightlife distinct. It’s not about neon lights or overcrowded clubs; it’s about atmosphere, community, and the kind of moments that linger. Even a quiet walk along the lake can feel like part of the evening’s entertainment.
Tech and Trends Shaping Burlington’s Entertainment
Burlington is part of a broader movement among mid-sized Canadian cities embracing smart technologies. Public Wi-Fi zones, efficient transportation systems, and digital event listings have made it easier than ever for residents to find and enjoy activities after dark.
Technology doesn’t just support convenience — it enhances connection. Event-goers can follow live updates about performances, check crowd sizes, or even order ahead for drinks or tickets. It’s a seamless integration of innovation and lifestyle, one that reflects the city’s forward-thinking approach to entertainment.
As physical and digital entertainment continue to merge, Burlington’s venues have begun experimenting with hybrid models. Live concerts are streamed online, trivia nights include virtual participation, and digital art projections light up the cityscape during local festivals.
These interactive experiences give Burlington’s nightlife a sense of evolution — not a reinvention, but a natural extension of how people choose to enjoy their evenings today.
The Social Side of Burlington Nights
 Outdoors and yards from the lake – a prime spot in the city. From upscale wine bars to lively patios and music lounges, Burlington caters to a variety of tastes. Small venues foster intimacy and connection, while larger spaces embrace energy and movement. Whether it’s the laughter of a trivia crowd, the rhythm of a jazz performance, or the calm of a lakeside lounge, the diversity of atmospheres makes Burlington’s nightlife dynamic yet personal.
Seasonal events like the Sound of Music Festival or Burlington Food Truck Festival infuse additional life into the city’s nights. They serve as reminders that entertainment here doesn’t always mean extravagance — it often means togetherness.
As the city continues to grow, its focus on creating shared experiences ensures that Burlington’s nightlife remains inclusive, balanced, and full of character.
Burlington’s Nightlife Future – Local Soul, Global Vision
What makes Burlington’s nightlife truly stand out is its sustainability — not just environmentally, but culturally. Businesses and event organizers emphasize local partnerships, eco-friendly operations, and authentic experiences. The result is a scene that feels homegrown yet forward-looking.
This approach reflects a larger trend seen across Canada: the blending of local identity with global influence. Burlington embraces innovation while keeping its roots intact, ensuring its nightlife remains as genuine as it is exciting.
Redefining “Nightlife” for a Modern Generation
For younger residents, nightlife isn’t confined to traditional venues. It includes social media-driven pop-ups, outdoor film screenings, and virtual gatherings. The city’s open-minded attitude encourages creativity — from digital art displays to collaborative performances that reimagine what evening entertainment can be.
This redefinition ensures Burlington continues to thrive, offering both connection and exploration in an age of constant change.
Burlington After Dark – Where Every Night Tells a Story
 Burlington’s rich indigenous culture is on display throughout the year Burlington’s nightlife isn’t loud or showy — it’s meaningful, modern, and unmistakably local. The city has mastered the art of blending community and creativity, proving that a smaller city can have a big personality when the lights go down.
From waterfront evenings to virtual adventures, Burlington embodies the essence of contemporary leisure — grounded in connection, shaped by innovation, and guided by authenticity.
As day turns to night, Burlington doesn’t slow down. It transforms — into a living canvas of culture, flavor, and rhythm.
By Lou Frapporti
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the greatest blessings in my life is the opportunity to meet so many incredible people working everyday, in myriad ways, to make their communities better.
 Kings Road Primary School students will open for the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra performing at the Aldershot High School on February 12th.  A wonderful example of that is in the collaboration of two remarkable women, Kim Varian, the indomitable Executive Director of the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, and Kristy Henders, the inspirational principal of Kings Road Primary School. For those that aren’t aware, Kings Road is an island of inclusion in Aldershot bringing together a wide range of children from diverse backgrounds; a mixture of children whose families have lived in Burlington for generations with the children of newcomers to Canada. All learning in a modest little school with inspiring educators like Kristy. My periodic visits to King Road Primary School on behalf of Alinea Land Corporation‘s philanthropic work always leaves me inspired. I am privileged to call both Kim and Kristy friends.
Which is why I’m delighted to bring this collaboration to the attention of those who live in Burlington. On February 12, the HPO will perform at Aldershot High School auditorium to raise money in support of local elementary schools, particularly King’s Road’s STEAM initiative and the Halton Learning Foundation, helping to provide enhanced learning opportunities for local students.
The event is open to the public and I invite all in my network in the area to attend to support these children and in appreciation for the wonderful work of the HPO.
And to the many wonderful business leaders in the City of Burlington: while endowed with remarkable educators doing incredible work, King’s Road Primary School is under-resourced. Please consider supporting this event through a donation – even if you are unable to attend – or otherwise supporting Kings Road as part of your charitable programming.
By Gazette Staff
January 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Rescheduled Date: An Evening with MPPs Natalie Pierre & Peter Bethlenfalvy
Please join us for our An Evening with MPPs Natalie Pierre and Peter Bethlenfalvy.
This very special event will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 6:00pm.
 They don’t tell you where the event is taking place. They want to be sure that pesky journalists don’t show up asking questions. Send them your credit card number, and you will get a seat at the table. Your credit card will be hit for $500.
Those people who do business with the provincial government will pony up that $500
By Gazette Staff
January 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
It was a very cold night.
 Despite the weather, a small group showed up for the first public event Focus Burlington put on. Using the theme: Beyond the Ballot Stephen White took the audience through a series of questions put to a four-member panel. The questions are set out below.
The two-hour event didn’t manage to get to all 10; questions from the audience were varied and, for the most part, very much to the point.
 I wasn’t a huge audience but it was respectful enough, and they had a lot to say. They were looking for answers to issues that just couldn’t be answered.
Interesting, the maniac south of us wasn’t mentioned once.
The audience wasn’t very happy with the performance coming from the City Council.
Budget issues and what the audience thought their city council wasn’t doing for them dominated.
Alan Harrington spoke of the need to get people involved, saying there wasn’t much hope for a change with the current Council.
Brad Harness, publisher of the Burlington Independent, acquitted himself rather well. While he has yet to formally announce, he will run for the Ward 2 seat that Lisa Kerns is expected to vacate to take a run at becoming the Mayor of the City. No formal announcement yet.
Mark Carr, a former member of City Council (Ward 6 when it was a 17 member Council saw merit in what was being done at Regional Council. He didn’t get much in the way of agreement on that point.
Pepper Parr, publisher of the Burlington Gazette told the audience that the biggest problem the city has is “assessment”; new homes are not being built which means the tax revenue stream can’t keep up with the amount of money the city is spending.
It is that issue, the amount the city is spending and the tax increases that follow that broughtFocus Burlington into being.
 Left to right: Alan Harrington, Brad Harness, Eric Stern, a Focus co-founder, Mark Carr and Pepper Parr A chartered accountant in the audience said he was stunned when he learned that the budget book is more than 600 pages long.
Another resident said she was finding Burlington too expensive to live in and expected to have to move at some point..
The one issue that pervaded almost everything was the lack of meaningful engagement. No one spoke about how well things were going at City Council . There wasn’t any praise for even one of them.
1: When you look back on the past four years of the Burlington City Council, what story does their record tell? If you had to assess their overall effectiveness—not intentions, but outcomes—how would you evaluate their performance and why?
2: What decision or initiative best represents the strongest leadership shown by the current mayor and council over the past four years—and what lasting impact will it have on Burlington?
3: Where do you believe the mayor and council fell short of public expectations, and what lessons should future councils take from that shortcoming?
4: What do you think has been the most significant or impactful decision, action or moment in the life of this mayor and council during the past four years?
5: Looking ahead to the next four-year term, what are the most critical challenges facing Burlington—and how prepared is the next mayor and council to address them realistically?
6: Public scrutiny of municipal spending continues to Based on what you’ve observed, where are the greatest opportunities for smarter spending, cost control, or service redesign—without compromising quality?
7: How do you expect provincial policies and decisions under the Ford government to shape—or constrain—the priorities and autonomy of Burlington’s next mayor and council?”
8: As you assess Burlington’s political landscape, where do you see the greatest potential for change—whether through new voices, tighter races, or shifting voter priorities?
9: Municipal voter turnout remains a challenge across How well do you think Burlington engages its residents in civic life—and what concrete steps could meaningfully increase participation and trust?”
10: For someone in the audience contemplating running for municipal office, what advice would you give them in preparing their policy platform or organizing their campaign?
By Gazette Staff
November 12th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On November 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, over 40 young performers will be showcasing the music of Canadian composers to celebrate Canada music week.
We want to draw attention to Canadian composers and their works and to introduce the public to this music. The performers are all extremely talented and very excited about the chance to showcase their music.
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