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Discover Burlington Launches as Burlington’s  Unified Economic Development and Tourism  Organization

Following a year of strong economic and tourism growth,  Burlington Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce its rebranding as  Discover Burlington. 

As Burlington’s official economic development and destination management organization,  Discover Burlington brings together tourism and economic development under a single identity  designed to strengthen the city’s position as a destination for visitors, investors, businesses, and  talent. 

The launch marks the final phase of the 2025 amalgamation of Tourism Burlington and  Burlington Economic Development. Following the merger, the formerly separate organizations  recognized an opportunity to align investment attraction, business support, talent attraction,  and destination management under a single mandate focused on growing Burlington’s  economy and enhancing the city’s competitiveness. 

The new Discover Burlington identity reflects the organization’s integrated approach to  economic development and tourism, recognizing the important role tourism plays as a driver of  economic growth and community prosperity. 

In 2025 alone, tourism generated more than $512 million in visitor spending in Burlington. The  organization also supported more than 300 local businesses through its economic development  programs and initiatives, while helping attract more than 600 jobs to the community. 

“The launch of Discover Burlington is more than a new logo; it reflects the momentum we’ve  built since amalgamating our organizations and our commitment to telling a stronger, more  unified story about Burlington,” said Anita Cassidy, Executive Director of Discover Burlington.  “Today’s visitor could be tomorrow’s investor, employee, entrepreneur, or resident, and this is  one of the opportunities we’re tapping into through the synergies that exist across tourism and  economic development. Our services are evolving to meet the needs of a rapidly changing  economy, with a stronger focus on the opportunities that will shape Burlington’s future.” 

The organization says the new identity better reflects Burlington’s evolving story and its  position as a city where economic opportunity and quality of life intersect.

By leveraging tourism as an economic development tool, Discover Burlington aims to create  new opportunities for local businesses, strengthen the visitor economy, and enhance  Burlington’s appeal as a place to invest, grow a business, build a career, and enjoy a high quality  of life. 

“I am incredibly proud of where this process has taken us. We have been very intentional in  developing this brand to ensure it authentically reflects our community, engaging with  residents, businesses and partners to understand what makes Burlington such a special place,”  said Claire Green, Director of Destination Development and Marketing with Discover  Burlington. “Our goal was to capture the experiences, qualities, and opportunities that make  Burlington unique, from our waterfront and natural spaces to our welcoming community and  balanced lifestyle. The vibrant use of colour and photography helps bring that story to life and  showcase Burlington in a way that feels authentic. Burlington is one of the most desirable  communities in Canada, and we’re excited to continue supporting the city’s growth through this  refreshed identity.” 

As Burlington’s economic development and destination management organization, Discover  Burlington delivers services on behalf of the City of Burlington to attract investment, support  local business growth, and strengthen the visitor economy. The organization is funded through  a combination of City of Burlington investment and 50 per cent of Municipal Accommodation  Tax revenues, which are reinvested to support economic growth, destination development, and  tourism initiatives across the community. 

“Discover Burlington positions us for the future,” said Ron Laidman, Chair of the Board of  Directors for Discover Burlington. “As Burlington continues to grow and evolve, this new brand  gives us a stronger platform to compete, collaborate, and lead. It reflects the kind of city  Burlington already is – connected, welcoming, ambitious, and balanced – while creating new  opportunities that contribute to Burlington’s long-term prosperity.” 

For more information, visit discoverburlington.ca. Discover Burlington can also be found on: 

Instagram: @DiscoverBurlington 

Facebook: Discover Burlington 

LinkedIn: Discover Burlington 

Media Contact:

Claire Green 
Director, Destination Development and Marketing
Discover Burlington 
claire.green@burlington.ca 
(905) 332-9415 ext. 7252 

About Discover Burlington 

Discover Burlington is Burlington’s economic development and destination management  organization, focused on driving economic prosperity by attracting investment, supporting local  business growth, and promoting Burlington as a vibrant destination for visitors. 

Formed through the 2025 amalgamation of Tourism Burlington and Burlington Economic  Development, Discover Burlington brings together tourism and economic development under a  unified vision to strengthen Burlington’s economy and position the city as one of Canada’s most  desirable places to live, work, visit, and invest.

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13th annual Oakville Film Festival kicks off with film reveal at Film.Ca Cinemas featuring 100 Films

Oakville… Get ready for 10 thrilling days of cinematic magic! The 13th annual Oakville Film Festival (OFFA) is back from June 17th to June 27th, bringing the energy back to both Oakville and Burlington, Ontario. 

In OFFA’s 13th year, the Oakville Film Festival is proud to present 100 local, Canadian and international films, including romcoms, powerful drama, thrillers and empowering documentaries and shorts over 10 days, hosted by Oakville media personality Tyler Collins, and Mississauga Director/Producer/Writer and Actor, Cynthia Crofoot. 

Oakville Film Festival kicks off at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre in Burlington’s charming downtown core with “Kickoff: the Beautiful Game on Screen” which will be a special OFFA launch exploring how the game of soccer unites communities around the work. 

Following this exhilarating screening in Burlington, the Oakville Film Festival will be in Oakville’s sophisticated downtown core at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts with three (3) red carpet Galas on Thursday, June 18th, Friday, June 19th and Saturday, June 20th. 

A selection of films is available online only during the festival. Check out the 2026 film guide here: https://offa.ca/offa-2026/ 

2026 Red Carpet Gala Highlights: 

Wednesday June 17th– Kickoff: The Beautiful Game on Screen 

A special OFFA launch event exploring how soccer unites communities around the world. Wednesday, June 17th, 7:00 PM at BPAC (Burlington Performing Arts Centre). Events begin outdoor at 6 pm. At 7 pm we have freestyle soccer performance acrobatics with soccer artists and drummers, Dennis Thompson & friends, jugglers, Soccer trivia and more! Door Prizes, photo opportunities with soccer heroes. Sponsored by Black and White Media, and Burlington Economic Development & Tourism. Media Partner: CHCH. 

Game and Glory (25 min) (Trailer Here) 

Short films include: 

Fields (dir. Lachlan Sutherland) Oakville, Canada 

Dedication (dir. Milot Idrizi) Switzerland 

Off Sides (dir. Kaitlyn Brown) USA

GALA SCREENINGS AT THE OAKVILLE CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS Thursday, June 18th, 7:30 PM – BLINDLY VICTORIOUS – EY RED CARPET GALA 

● Canada | Drama/Bio | 1hr 30m | Trailer 

● World Premiere, Sponsor: EY 

● DIRECTOR: Giacomo Moncada 

● STARRING: Watson Rose, Jake Epstein, Tony Nappo 

SYNOPSIS: When everything goes dark… Strength finds a way. Inspired by the extraordinary true story of Victoria Nolan, Blindly Victorious follows a devoted schoolteacher who chose to have children knowing she would likely lose her sight in the process — a decision that would forever alter the course of her life. Unemployed, demoralized, and learning to navigate the world as a blind mother of two, Victoria spirals into isolation and despair. Stripped of the independence she once defined herself by, she begins to believe she has become a burden to the very family she loves. But at her lowest point, she finds an unexpected lifeline — Rowing. Through relentless training, fierce discipline, and an unbreakable will, Victoria transforms adversity into power. Rising through the ranks of competitive rowing, she defies every expectation — becoming not only a Paralympic Gold Medalist, but a World Champion. 

FILM FACT: This film is based on the life of Victoria Nolan, a three-time Paralympian and the most experienced member of Canada’s Para rowing. In 2016, the visually impaired athlete was part of the Canadian crew that won Canada’s first ever medal in Paralympic Games, taking bronze in the mixed fours. Q&A: includes Director Giacomo Moncada, Victoria Nolan, and others from the film. 

SHORT FILMS: Sweet Spot (dir. Ying Siu) Canada & Hockey Mom, (dir. Mikaela Lily Davies) Canada 

EVENT: Music from the film performed live before the screening including Canadian Screen Award winning composer\pianist Igor Vrabac, Violinist Viera Zmiywsky, and others. 

HOST: Tyler Collins 

Friday, June 19th, 7:30 PM – GALA – DANCING ON THE ELEPHANT 

● Canada/USA | Comedy | 1hr 33m | Trailer 

● Ontario Premiere 

● Sponsor: The Cooperators 

● DIRECTOR: Julia Neill, Jacob Z. Smith 

● STARRING: Mary Walsh, Sheila McCarthy, Amanda Brugel, Kevin Kincaid, Reid Price 

SYNOPSIS: Faced with a future of chair-xercise and spoon-fed pudding, nursing home friends Nora and Edna attempt to break out of the ‘fox farm’ and find a life worth sticking around for. 

FILM FACT: At the 45th Atlantic International Film Festival Mary Walsh won the award for Best Actor and Angela Baker won for Best Editing. 

Q&A: actors from the film Amanda Brugel (Handmaids Tale), Sheila McCarthy (Women Talking). TBC Mary Walsh, Directors on zoom. 

SHORT FILM: Made From Leakproof Plastic (dir. Anastasiya Mykhaylova) Canada/UK

HOST: Cynthia Crofoot 

Saturday, June 20th, 7:30 PM – International GALA COUTURE 

● France | Drama | 1hr 46m | FRENCH, ENGLISH, GERMAN, SWEDISH (subtitles) Trailer 

● Regional Premiere 

● Sponsors: Capstick McCollum, Caju Multimedia 

● DIRECTOR: Alice Winocour 

● STARRING: Angelina Jolie, Ella Rumpf, Anyier Anei 

SYNOPSIS: In the frenzy of Fashion Week, three women cross paths in Paris, grappling with the world’s tragedies and the questions of their lives: Maxine, an American film director in her forties, discovers she has cancer; Ada, a young South Sudanese model, escapes a predetermined destiny to be thrust into a deceptive universe and French makeup artist Angèle, a small hand working in the shadows of the catwalks, dreams of escaping her life. 

FILM FACT: Couture is the first fictional feature film ever allowed to shoot inside Chanel’s prestigious Paris showroom and atelier on Rue Cambon. The title “Couture” means stitches, not just fashion. 

SHORT FILM: The Little Ancestor (dir. Alexa Tremblay-Francoeur) Canada 

EVENT: Fashion Show with local fashion designers and fashion vendors in lobby before show 

HOST: Tyler Collins 

Check out our 2026 OFFA Film Trailer – https://youtu.be/MXLs9jgtULA 

For a comprehensive guide to the festival, including film screenings, exclusive Q&As, and more, please visit Oakville Festivals of Film and Art OFFA 2026 – Oakville Festivals of Film and Art 

We look forward to welcoming you to the 2026 Oakville Film Festival! 

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Eat, Drink & Be Airy: Our top summer patio picks for 2026

As soon as the weather warms up, patios are the place to be. What could possibly feel more summery than clinking glasses with friends at a charming outdoor table? From waterfront views to lively hidden gems, these Burlington and Oakville patios are among our favourite places to sip, savour, and socialize. 

OAKVILLE

The Bronte Boathouse
2340 Ontario Street

A lakeside classic with a modern feel, right on the water

THINK: brunch, out-of-town guests, dreamy sunshine views

BEST FOR: a relaxed but impressive experience

Harpers Landing
481 Cornwall Road

Spacious 3-season patio with a polished look

THINK: busy social scene, always buzzing

BEST FOR: celebrations and reliable energy

Try half-price bottles of wine every Wednesday!

Verace Italian Restaurant
312 Lakeshore Road East


Try the verified Neapolitan pizzas. Named among Canada’s best patios multiple years running.

THINK: authentic Italian cuisine, stylish vibes, Aperol spritzes

BEST FOR: date night, girls’ lunch, downtown Oakville atmosphere

Plank Restobar
67 Bronte Road

Try the Appy Hour Menu Mondays-Thursdays 2-5 pm. The Bronte Harbour location gives this one instant summer cred.

THINK: casual lakeside drinks and perfect bits and bites

BEST FOR: Tapas, cocktails, and people-watching

7 Enoteca
216 Lakeshore Road East

“I’m in Europe” feels, right in the heart of Oakville Town Square

THINK: quality Italian dishes and an extensive Italian wine list

BEST FOR: Loungy lunches and memorable dinners

Try the handmade pasta

The Oakville Pump & Patio
1011 Upper Middle Road East


Covered and heated, perfect for any kind of weather

THINK: OG high-energy patio that’s always bustling

BEST FOR: lively nights, sports, casual drinks that get loud (in the best way)

Try their Buddha Bowls

Spencer’s At The Waterfront
1340 Lakeshore Road


Signature patio with Lake Ontario views and glassy modern design.

THINK: Special occasions and decadent dishes by the water

BEST FOR: weekend brunches and milestone dinners

BURLINGTON

The North Coal Kitchen & Bar
399 Elizabeth Street #8


A consistently recommended patio, polished but relaxed

THINK: easy, modern, not trying too hard

BEST FOR: low-key but memorable nights out

Downtown Bistro And Grill
441 Elizabeth Street


Casual fine dining with sunset views


THINK: quality food and relaxed atmosphere

BEST FOR: a quieter dinner that still feels like a night out

Try the Jumbo Shrimp Linguine

Loondocks Restaurant
5111 New Street

Try their guest favourite – Nova Scotia Snow Crab Cakes Rooftop garden- style patio

THINK: Muskoka vibes with dishes often featuring herbs from the restaurant’s own garden

BEST FOR: upscale date nights

Buvette Restaurant & Wine Bar
417 Elizabeth Street

Covered, cool, and cozy in historic Village Square.

THINK: upscale cocktails and a wine-forward menu

BEST FOR: dressed-up casual and a special night out

Jacksons Landing
5000 New Street

Rooftop energy and Happy Hour from 9 pm to close

THINK: lively with a dependable crowd

BEST FOR: groups, birthdays, and fun with friends

Try the Landing Burger

Isabelle
3 Elizabeth Street


Lake views and Mediterranean flavours

THINK: unique menu and breezy atmosphere

BEST FOR: client lunches or celebrations over dinner

Try the roasted cauliflower Linguine

If you only have time for 2–3 patios:

OAKVILLE


VERACE
for the vibe

BRONTE BOATHOUSE
for the view

HARPERS LANDING
for the crowd


BURLINGTON


SPENCER’S
for the best overall experience

LOONDOCKS
for the most unique setting

ISABELLE’S
for the prettiest view and vibe

BY LISA THORNBURY

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Canada Strong Pass returns to Royal Botanical Gardens in Summer 2026!

Royal Botanical Gardens is pleased to share that the Canada Strong Pass will return this summer, made possible by the Government of Canada. From June 19 to September 7, 2026, children age 17 and under receive free admission, and young adults aged 18-24 receive half-price admission!

Canada Strong Pass applies to Garden Admission for all garden areas open on the day of visit, which includes daytime admission to RBG’s upcoming summer exhibit, ANCHORBALL: A Curious Art Journey! Pricing adjustments are automatically applied when purchasing online or in-person (no physical pass is required).

This offer does not apply to separately ticketed special events, programs, exhibits, group visits, or membership purchases. Canada Strong Pass continues until September 7th, so be sure to checkrbg.ca/canada-strong-pass for details on what’s available during your visit!

“Summer in Ontario is one of the best times to enjoy the many unique cultural treasures and tourism experiences that make this province an exciting place to visit,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “With free and discounted admission for youth and young adults at world-class museums and one-of-a-kind attractions like Royal Botanical Gardens, this pass offers an excellent opportunity to explore this beautiful province with your friends and family.”

“Museums allow us to discover what brings us together: our history, our creativity, our perspectives and the stories that shape Canada. With the Canada Strong Pass, even more Canadians will be able to enjoy cultural experiences across the country, while saving money.” —The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.

Plan your visit:

More information about the Canada Strong Pass is available from the Department of Canadian Heritage.

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Burlington Public Library Launches Summer Reading Club for Kids

Seeking adventure this summer? Look between the pages of a great book! Summer Reading Club at Burlington Public Library is a free and fun program for kids to grow and maintain their reading skills over the summer. 

Research shows that children who continue reading over the summer are better prepared when they return to school in the fall. With the school year coming to an end, it’s a great time to get a free library card and sign up for Summer Reading Club. 

How it Works

  1. Register at any Burlington Public Library branch or online through the registration form
  2. Pick up or print a reading tracker and set a weekly reading goal
  3. Check in every week starting June 29 to add to your reading reward keychain and enter prize draws, just for reading!

At every weekly check-in, readers earn two beads for their reading reward keychain and an entry into the end-of-summer Grand Prize Draw. The more often participants check in, the more chances they have to win!

Kick Off the Summer With Us

Families are invited to celebrate the start of the season at Summer Reading Club Kick-off Parties on Saturday, June 27 at 10:30 a.m. at Burlington Public Library branches. The free events feature music, dancing, crafts, and activities for all ages.

Throughout July and August, the Library will also offer a wide range of free programs for children and teens, including hands-on science and technology activities, arts and crafts, teen hangouts, and more.

A library card opens the door to thousands of books, audiobooks, video games, park passes, and other resources that help make summer learning fun. Burlington Public Library staff are always available to help families discover books and materials that match every interest, age, and reading level.

Summer Reading Club is open to kids ages 0-17. To register, visit any Burlington Public Library branch or visit the library’s website at www.bpl.on.ca/src.

Happy reading!
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In Community

In Daddy’s Arms: Happy Father’s Day to the full-on dads of 2026

I’m really not so old – or so I tell myself – but when I was born, my father wasn’t in the hospital room. I had a stay-at-home mother who deprived the workforce of her many talents to lovingly spend her days with a babbling (and adorable!) toddler. Dad was a foreman at General Electric and provided for us financially, but I can pretty much guarantee that he never crawled on the floor in a toy store to play horsey with his kid like the dads I see today. 

Fatherhood looks entirely different in 2026.

Then and now

In the 1970s, the breadwinner model still dominated family life. Statistics from the era show that just one percent of stay-at-home parents were fathers, and more than half of single-earner families relied solely on a father’s income. 

By the 1980s, those expectations were beginning to shift. More women were entering the workforce, and family dynamics started to change. Fathers were still largely seen as providers, but they were becoming more present in everyday family life. Even so, a 1982 survey found that 43 percent of fathers reported never having changed a diaper — a statistic that now feels almost impossible to imagine.

The 1990s marked another turning point. Fathers were increasingly present at births, and the definition of a “good dad” began expanding. Beyond financial support, fathers were expected to provide emotional involvement and nurturing. Over time, public policy also changed things. Parental leave programs gradually encouraged fathers to take time off with newborns, especially in Quebec, where dedicated paternity leave dramatically increased participation.

By 2015, nearly half of Canadian fathers reported providing daily care for their children, compared with one in three in the mid-1980s. Fathers now account for at least 11 percent of stay-at-home parents, a sevenfold increase since the 1970s. 

The involvement shift

Juan Sarmiento, Founder & Owner of Vereda Central Coffee Roasters and a present-day dad, says that everything he does is for his family. As someone who takes his three “most wonderful and beautiful girls in the world” to school and picks them up every day, attends every recital or rehearsal and helps with homework, he doesn’t sound at all like the career men one might have encountered in the 1970s. 

Juan Sarmiento & His Family from Vereda Central Coffee

“Dad mode is 24/7 for me,” Sarmiento says. “I love hanging out with my family.”

While the path toward equality in parenting is still evolving, one thing is clear: modern fatherhood is increasingly defined by being present.  For many fathers, this requires some careful juggling but is worth every second.

Jon Root, Look Local magazine’s Creative Director, has two boys, ages five and 18 months, who “look identical but have vastly different personalities.” Like many working parents, Root’s day involves constant shifts between professional and family roles.

“Mornings and late afternoons I try not to look at my phone so that I can focus on family,” he explains. “From six to nine in the morning and five to eight in the evening it’s usually full-on dad mode.”

“The most challenging aspect of parenting while juggling a busy career is the lack of time,” Root says. “I constantly feel pulled in different directions, but ultimately the boys always come first. Nothing is as rewarding as spending time with them and watching them grow.”

Jordan Zalter, a sales representative with RE/MAX Escarpment Realty, shares a similar perspective. He and his wife, Kim, are raising two children aged 11 and nine. “I try to keep work away from the kids as much as possible and set aside at least four days a week for school pickup,” he says. “I learned this lesson from my father, who is a retired physician, but I take pride in being able to be both a professional and a present father.”

Jordan Zalter & His Family from ReMax

Thanks, Dad!

Research shows that involved fathers make a measurable difference. Children with positively engaged fathers often demonstrate stronger cognitive development, improved emotional well-being, and better social outcomes.

In other words, the quiet transformation of fatherhood over the past half-century has reshaped both family and community. Today, men with busy work lives have found ways to commit fully to their families. Even better, career and family can be mutually inspiring. 

“My goal in life is to leave a legacy to my family primarily and to my community,” says Sarmiento. “The most rewarding thing is to see the pride and joy in my daughters’ faces when they go to any of our stores and see, first-hand, all that their parents have built from scratch.”

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True North Strong and Flavourful: Canuck-style essentials for a Canada Day feast

Canada is home to world-class pastries, pies, wines and meats. With the last years’ rise in patriotism, more and more people are choosing to buy Canadian and celebrate what our land has to offer. Several neighbourhood businesses offer a taste of our nation. Here are some of our favourites:

At Denninger’s, a specialty grocery store with locations in Burlington and Hamilton, the bacon is as Canadian as it gets. It’s produced in a north end Hamilton facility with pork belly sourced from a small Ontario business. The pork belly is brined in a special recipe and smoked in house. Add some to your next brunch lineup.

Over at Black Forest Pastry Shop in downtown Oakville, the butter tarts are to die for. They fill buttery pastry with a luxuriously rich filling, available with pecans, skor, raisin or plain. The traditional family recipe hasn’t changed for 35 years. 

BF Pastry Shop

If you’re a cheese lover, look no further than Micky McGuire’s Cheese in Dundas. The shop offers more than 400 varieties of cheese including Canadian favourites such as Oka, La Sauvagine and, perhaps best of all, cheese curds. Curds, with their pleasant rubbery texture, are a hallmark of our country’s cuisine, perfect for topping poutine or snacking alongside fresh fruits and nuts. 

Almost every culture has some version of a meat pie, and ours is the tourtiere. Flavoured with baking spices like cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, this Quebecois classic is uniquely fragrant and festive. For a top-notch tourtiere with savoury ground pork, celery, onion and garlic, visit Burlington’s That Pie Place. The business uses local meats and wholesome Canadian produce wherever possible, without artificial additives or shortcuts. 

We can’t feature Canadian food without mention of the quintessential Nanaimo bar, a layered sweet treat with a chocolatey coconut graham base, custard-like vanilla icing and a chocolate shell on top. Kelly’s Bake Shoppe on Lakeshore Road in Oakville has a great one that just happens to be vegan. Fun fact: the first recipe called a “Nanaimo Bar” — named after the B.C. city — appeared in an early 1950s cookbook by Edith Adams! 

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe


As for drinks, there is no shortage of Canadian options. A great place to start is at Maverick Distillery based in Oakville. Its stellar lineup of liquors includes the Ginslinger Ontario craft gin, made with cold-pressed wild juniper, its double-aged Barnburner Ontario whiskey with notes of vanilla and caramel, and the peppery Lunatico tequila. Or try their pre-mixed bottled cocktails, like the Espresso Martini, Cranberry Vodka and Whisky Sour.

When it comes to cooking Canadian at home, look to local farmers, makers and producers for ingredients. Many farms offer CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes full of fresh produce that you can get delivered or pick up throughout the seasons. In the summer, expect vibrant berries and leafy greens, and in the winter, you can get your hands on root vegetables and delicious preserves.

Maverick Distillery

Canadian fare is oftentimes limited to our short growing period, but this has given way to a world of resourcefulness. If you’re after local flavours year-round, why not make soups, sauces and jams out of produce when it’s at peak season and freeze them to eat when the colder weather comes? With farmer’s market season upon us, it’s time to fill our baskets with fresh goods and rejoice — after all, you can’t get more Canadian than our own nature’s bounty, grown and harvested on Canadian soil. 

By Lauren Medeiros

Local Links

Denninger’s
777 Guelph Line, Burlington
denningers.com

Black Forest Pastry Shop
184 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
black-forest-pastry-shop.square.site

Micky McGuire’s Cheese
2 King Street West Unit #1, Dundas
instagram.com/mickey_mcguires_cheese

That Pie Place
4155 Fairview Street, Burlington
thatpieplace.com

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe
259 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
kellysxo.com

Maverick Distillery
2140 Winston Park Drive Unit 18, Oakville
maverickdirect.ca

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No Fair! How to survive a sibling rivalry war zone

I didn’t think that I had experienced sibling rivalry since there is a seven-year age difference between my younger brother and myself, until I started writing this article.  Through the mists of time, memories came flooding back. In particular, a hilarious incident when I asked my mom if we could “send him back!” The answer, much to my dismay, was a hard no. 

As the older child I often felt that my parents were taking my brother’s side in our disputes, as they assumed that I should be more mature. (Ha! Had they met me?)  

My brother and I grew out of our rivalry, but in many families, sibling rivalry can be constant and exhausting, with parents playing referee during frequent fights. Much of this rivalry and jostling for parents’ attention and approval is normal and inevitable, but it is still highly disruptive.

The art of living together

Siblings who are close in age and of the same gender often clash. However, according to Cory Bentley, a psychotherapist and the owner of Canoe Therapy, friction between siblings is more often caused by a child’s emotional makeup, such as how rigid or flexible they are in dealing with others, and their level of confidence.

“It’s a personality driven thing where some kids are born with a real need for justice and fairness and when they get overly focused on that, where does it play out? ‘Oh, someone got a bigger piece of cake.’ It’s the kid’s personality playing out in the structure of the sibling framework,” says Bentley.

Family Matters Centre

After learning basic relationship skills from parents, the next step is for the child to learn sharing, negotiating, competing, interacting, and boundary setting with other children – particularly their siblings. Yes, there are bound to be growing pains. Luckily, parental coaching can help to defuse rivalry between kids and encourage them to have a strong bond. If parents model this with their own siblings, even better!

As Bentley emphasizes, “It’s not the amount of fighting that indicates whether they’ll have a positive relationship, it’s the number of good moments they’ve had together… And you do have control over the good moments.”

Making sure that your kids understand that they’re expected to have each other’s backs when they’re at school and involved in other activities goes a long way to create a lifelong bond.

To foster that connection, Shari Markovich, registered psychotherapist at Family Matters Centre, offers these parental coaching tips: 

  • Avoid comparing children to each other.
  • Spend one-on-one time with each child.
  • Avoid blame and encourage respectful expression of emotions.
  • Teach problem-solving and encourage team-work.
  • Don’t force apologies too quickly.
  • Notice and call-out the good you see (co-operation, kindness, etc.).
  • Allow children to develop their own identity and avoid labels.
  • Keep in mind that when children feel securely connected to parents and emotions are handled calmly and respectfully, sibling rivalry is reduced.

When it’s too much

Canoe Therapy

So, you’ve tried these tips and the kids are still at each other like proverbial cats and dogs! When should you seek professional advice?

As Markovich explains, “There is a difference between normal conflict and ongoing hostility. Parents must intervene and/or seek outside help if there is persistent humiliation or aggression between siblings.”

According to Bentley, often sessions with parents are what is needed –- not necessarily sessions with the children. “Parent coaching can really go a long way,” she says. “But if the friction is really getting one of the kids down, it’s taking a toll, it might be something to look at.”

Bottom line: Don’t hesitate to seek help if you feel that your family needs it. A sympathetic ear and practical strategies from a professional can work wonders.

By Cyndi Ingle

LOCAL LINKS

Canoe Therapy
canoetherapy.ca
info@canoetherapy.ca

Burlington Clinic
3455 Fairview Street, Unit 8, Burlington
905-633-9222

Oakville Clinic
515 Dundas Street West, Oakville
905-257-5555
oakvilleinfo@canoetherapy.ca

Family Matters Centre
2349 Fairview Street, Suite 205, Burlington
905-466-8023
info@familymatterscentre.ca
familymatterscentre.ca

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In Just for Fun

Life’s a Picnic: Easy, breezy open air dining close to home

I’m always on the lookout for fun, budget-friendly ways to spend quality time with my kids. While I love getting outdoors and exploring nature, long hikes aren’t always a hit with little feet. That’s why picnics make an ideal outing. With just a packed lunch, a blanket, and a few activities, a picnic offers the perfect mix of fresh air and fun. 

From playgrounds to splash pads, trails and lake views, charming picnic destinations abound in Halton region. 

FIND THE PERFECT SPOT

With shaded picnic areas, a playground, stroller-friendly trails, and plenty of open space for a game of frisbee or soccer, Lowville Park checks all the boxes. Bronte Creek runs through it, giving kids an opportunity to explore, skip rocks, and search for crayfish.

Spencer Smith park

For a lively waterfront vibe, Spencer Smith Park is hard to beat. Walk along the shore or let the kids burn energy at the huge playground before grabbing a post-picnic treat from La Creme de la Creme Creamery downtown. 

For a quieter setting, Burloak Waterfront Park is a great place to relax, with shoreline views and a rocky beach.

Need to cool off? Check out LaSalle Park. This family-friendly park offers a splash pad, playground, scenic lake views and a stroller-friendly boardwalk. Wander over to LaSalle Marina to watch the sailboats, ducks and trumpeter swans. 

A full-day adventure calls for a visit to Bronte Creek Provincial Park. This local treasure has picnic areas, a play barn, and a kid-friendly gnome trail. 

Bronte Creek

GEAR UP

Whether you’re planning a simple lunch in the park or a full family feast, shopping local makes it easy to picnic in style.

Nicetys in Downtown Oakville is a must-visit for picnic essentials, offering everything from colourful tablecloths to bamboo cutlery and reusable containers. One customer favourite? Notpaper Towels. They’re reusable, you can take them home and wash them, and they work great as a napkin.

Beeswax wraps are another picnic MVP. These reusable and biodegradable wonders are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap or sandwich bags. 

And for easy outdoor dining, their Easy Care Table Cloths are both practical and pretty. You can use them on a picnic table or as a blanket. They come in beautiful designs and are machine washable. 

For practical picnic gear, Kitchen Stuff Plus in Oakville has you covered with coolers, containers, and mesh food tents to help keep those uninvited bugs away. And if you’re looking for playful flair, check out the Kitchen Witch in Dundas for linens, candles, and more.

FILL YOUR BASKET

The Platter Co

The key to a memorable picnic is to keep things easy and fun. Cover your basics with a cooler, ice packs, reusable plates, wipes, a picnic blanket, and bags for garbage. Don’t forget a frisbee, soccer ball or bubbles to keep kids entertained.

As for the main event – food – opt for easy classics. My kids love sandwiches (crusts cut off, of course!). Wraps, pasta salad, fresh fruit, veggies and dip, granola bars, and crackers are other picnic staples that travel well. 

If you’d rather skip the prep, there are tasty grab-and-go options. Charcuterie boxes from Gouda Thyme in Oakville include a tantalizing selection of cheeses, charcuterie meats, fresh fruits, dips or spreads, crackers, and more. 

“Our boxes are designed to make entertaining and eating outdoors feel effortless, beautiful, and memorable,” says Rimsha Chaudry, Co-founder of Gouda Thyme. 

Gouda Thyme

Their latest offering, the Picnic Box, is a pre-order bundle complete with fresh salad, deli sandwiches, a sweet treat for dessert, drinks, napkins and cutlery. No need to pack anything else!

Other local businesses offering ready-made picnic foods: 

Sandwich Garden – 1122 International Boulevard, Burlington  

Sandwich Society – 146 Kerr Street, Oakville 

Boffo’s Fine Foods – 334 Kerr Street, Oakville  

The Platter Company – 175 Plains Road East, Burlington

Bretonne Bakery  – 2025 William O’Connell Boulevard, Burlington

Mrs. B’s Gifthouse – 4129 Harvester Road, Burlington

By Lisa Evans

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Summer Starts Here: Discover the Top Reasons to Visit Oakville This Summer!

Summer in Oakville is all about lakeside experiences, unforgettable events, outdoor adventures and discovering the charm of one of Ontario’s most vibrant waterfront communities. From live music and cultural festivals to scenic parks, farmers’ markets and incredible dining, Oakville offers endless ways for visitors and residents to make the most of the season.

“Whether you’re exploring our waterfront trails, enjoying live music under the stars, discovering local shops and restaurants, or attending one of the many festivals happening throughout the summer, there’s always something exciting to experience in Oakville,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director of Visit Oakville. “Summer is the perfect time to discover everything that makes Oakville such a welcoming and memorable destination.”

Here are some of the top things to do in Oakville this summer:

  • Friday Night Jazz – June 5 – August, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Kick off the weekend in Downtown Oakville with live outdoor jazz performances by John Canham and friends in Towne Square.
  • Relaunch of The Ship of Tolerance Exhibit at Oakville Galleries – On now until September 30 at Gairloch Gardens.  The Ship of Tolerance was created by renowned artists Ilya and Emilia Kabakov. This year, the project involves over 900 children who helped in the production of the ship’s sails.
  • Shop the Street – June 11-14 – Stroll through downtown Oakville, browse great finds, and see what your favourite local shops have to offer.
  • Knot Just a Knit in Public – June 13, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Calling all fibre artists! Bring your needles and creativity to enjoy knitting, sewing, quilting, or crocheting in a fun outdoor setting.
  • Oakville Festivals of Film & Art (OFFA) – June 17–27 – Enjoy over 100 films, including shorts, documentaries, and features, along with three incredible gala screenings and VIP events.
  • Sunset Socials Music Series – June 18, July 16 and August 20, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Enjoy FREE outdoor concerts on the historic grounds of Erchless Estate.
  • Bronte Lake Notes – June 18 – September 3, 7:00 p.m. – Bring a lawn chair and enjoy FREE live music performances every Thursday night under the sails at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park all summer long.
  • Bronte’s Dominican Bachata Party – June 19 – September 11, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. – This summer, get ready to dance at Bronte’s Bachata Nights every Friday night at Bronte Market Square — a free, fun-filled celebration for all ages!
  • Oakville Family Ribfest – June 26–28 at Sheridan College.  Enjoy a weekend of mouthwatering ribs, live entertainment, family activities, and more!
  • Canada Day Celebration – July 1 – Celebrate Canada Day along the waterfront at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park with family activities, entertainment, food vendors and a spectacular fireworks display hosted by the Town of Oakville. Visitors can also enjoy festivities at the Bronte Legion featuring live music, a market, food trucks and more.
  • TD Summer Music Series – July 4 – August 29 – Experience the heart of summer in Downtown Oakville with live music and local talent every Saturday throughout July and August from 3:00–7:00 p.m. Enjoy outdoor performances along Lakeshore Road East and Towne Square all summer long. 
  • Bronte Farmers’ Market – July 5 – August 30, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Every Sunday all summer long, explore fresh local produce, handmade goods, and more in Bronte.
  • Oakville Wind Orchestra Sounds of Summer – July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 7:00 p.m. – The Oakville Wind Orchestra, Canada’s oldest community concert band, will host six FREE, family-friendly concerts. Take a toe-tapping journey through the ages under the gazebo at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
  • Oakville Food Truck Festival – July 11/12 – This is a food festival you don’t want to miss! 30 Food Trucks will be serving up some of the best food from the country at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
  • Strawberry Festival – July 18, 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Downtown Oakville’s Strawberry Festival celebrates Oakville’s history as the former Strawberry Capital of Canada with shopping, dining, entertainment, and strawberry-themed fun. Lakeshore Road East from Thomas St. to Dunn St. will transform into a car-free pedestrian street.
  • Oakville Latino Festival – July 24-26 – Experience the energy and culture of Latin America with music, dance performances, food vendors and entertainment at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
  • Art in the Park – August 3, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – One of Oakville’s most anticipated summer traditions returns to Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park featuring over 175 artists showcasing painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewellery and more.
  • Emancipation Day Picnic – August 3, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Join the Town of Oakville and the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) at the grounds of the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate for a vibrant community celebration to commemorate Emancipation Day.
  • Ghost Walks – August 7-8, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Spooky and fun! Join the guided ghost walks at Spruce Lane Farmhouse at Bronte Creek Provincial Park for a hauntingly good time.
  • CRAFT Live Afro-Caribbean Canadian Waterfront Fête – August 29 – Celebrate Afro-Caribbean culture, music and cuisine at this lively waterfront festival at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
  • KerrFest & KerrFest Kids – September 11-13 – This beloved community festival transforms Kerr Village and Westwood Park with live music, family programming, food vendors and entertainment for all ages.
  • Art in My Garden – September 12, 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Tour beautiful private gardens throughout historic Oakville while discovering artwork from local artists in a unique outdoor setting

And that’s not all – Oakville is home to more than 1,400 hectares of parkland, scenic waterfront trails, beautiful harbours and vibrant shopping districts perfect for exploring all summer long. Visitors can also experience Oakville’s thriving culinary scene, including acclaimed restaurants like 7 Enoteca, recently recognized by MICHELIN with a Bib Gourmand designation.

Extend your stay by booking one of Oakville’s welcoming hotels or enjoy a nature escape with overnight camping at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Learn more here.

For more information and to plan your stay visit: www.visitoakville.com.  To explore even more events happening this summer, visit www.visitoakville.com/events.

About Visit Oakville:

Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry.

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