Why does City Hall keep saying Burlington is a vibrant community?

By Pepper Parr

May 26th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Every time I get something from the city’s communications people that has the word “vibrant” in it – my knees begin to wobble and I reach for my dictionary.

Vibrant: lively, energetic, and full of life. 

This is what it’s all about. People sitting outside and enjoying the Sound of Music.    Vibrant?  Naw!

I’m not buying it.  Sound of Music isn’t vibrant – it is a wonderful, laid-back occasion when you get to listen to music you’d never heard before.

Nevertheless, the city is going to craft a new Culture Plan to guide the next decade (2026–2036) of arts and culture growth. This plan will help shape the future of Burlington’s arts and culture programs, services and investments. The Culture Plan will contribute to a future that is vibrant, inclusive and rooted in Burlington’s community.

The City is inviting residents and artists to get involved in the creation of its new Culture Plan.

Public Engagement

The City will be offering many ways for residents and the Arts and Culture community to share their ideas for Burlington’s arts and culture future. Over the next six months, staff will be connecting with residents, artists, cultural professionals, organizations and communities across Burlington.

Tuesday, June 24, 2025
1 to 2:30 p.m. 

In-person sessions – Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington 

Tuesday, June 24, 2025
6 to 8:30 p.m.

or

Tents set up in Civic Square during a cultural event.

Wednesday, June 25, 2025
11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

RSVP to participate in a Culture Jam Workshop

Event booths and pop-up

Over the summer, staff will be visiting busy parks, festivals and events to hear directly from residents. There will also be self-directed activities in public spaces such as libraries and community centres.

Residents can subscribe for updates at getinvolvedburlington.ca/cultureplan to get updates as information is added to the page.

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