We’ve rounded up the nicest patios in Bronte. These are the perfect places to enjoy summer sips, snacks, and outdoor meals. Make the most of these short summer months by visiting our favourite patios in Bronte.
The Bronte Boathouse menu was designed with patio fun in mind. From their Boathouse cocktails to their fresh raw and sushi bar, Bronte Boathouse has something to cool down any customer on a hot summer’s day. With views of the harbour, this waterfront patio is not to be missed.
With their eclectic assortment of small plate options, Plank’s patio takes their fun and soulful environment outdoors. Enjoy good music and their excellent selection of beer, wine, and bourbon.
The Marine Tavern is the perfect spot for a Summer evening out on the patio. Located in the Bronte Harbour, this British inspired pub has a wide selection on their menu with dishes that will surely impress you.
Nothing says summer like tacos and margaritas. Spice up your evening out with Por Vida’s extensive list of Mexican cuisine and mezcal in their vibrant patio setting.
If an elegant patio experience with excellent service is what you’re after, Cucci has you covered. Enjoy modern Italian cuisine in an intimate patio setting.
The Firehall’s patio offers fun comfort food like burgers and shakes in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. Be sure to snag a spot. Sirens will soon be blaring for this hot summer spot!
El Spero’s family owned and operated patio will make you feel right at home. Enjoy a range of delicious, homemade food options in an inviting outdoor setting.
Did we miss a patio? Email us and let us know! Contact us here.
We’ve rounded up the nicest patios in Oakville. These are the perfect places to enjoy summer sips, snacks, and outdoor meals. Make the most of these short summer months by visiting our favourite patios in Oakville.
If you’re looking for authentic Italian pasta and locally sourced seafood and meat, Borgo Antico is the spot. Feel at home sipping on cocktails and sharing plates with friends in their patio’s inviting atmosphere.
Beacon boasts a neighbourhood Tavern experience with great hospitality and creative market fresh dishes. Complete your dining experience with one of their signature cocktails, or peruse their robust wine & craft beer list. Bring your dancing shoes – this place is open late on weekends!
Ce Soir delivers an elegant, contemporary French dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood and a cocktail or a fine steak paired with a world class wine, Ce Soir’s patio experience has you covered.
Paradiso’s intimate interior ambiance translates to their patio experience. From delicious pizzas to Mediterranean inspired mains, their approachable menu has something for everyone. Situated right across the street from the Oakville Performing Arts Centre, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite before catching a show.
Hexagon offers a unique patio dining experience and excellent service. Share their elevated cuisine with friends and family in the heart of Oakville’s Town Square.
Piazza Bistro offers a range of gourmet Italian options in a casual patio atmosphere. They also have a plant-based menu and half-priced bottles of wine on Wednesdays.
This Toronto staple for fresh food is the perfect spot for all things organic, vegan & plant-based! Enjoy their street-side patio and indulge in food that your body will thank you for!
Enjoy classic Italian dishes, made from scratch on Ritorno’s intimate patio. With many sharable dishes, Ritorno’s patio experience is great for any occasion involving friends and family.
Whether you’re looking to have a night out with the family or catch a game and a pint with a friend, Beertown has something for everyone. Their patio offers a casual and lively dining experience.
Harpers Landing offers a fun and social patio experience on their 4-season patio. Their menu is highly accessible with something to please every member of your crew.
This Toronto staple come Oakville offers traditional Italian fare in a unique form. Not only is the food good, but the atmosphere is soulful and fun. These principles extend seamlessly to their patio experience.
Nestled in the centre of Oakville’s Town Square, 7 Enoteca offers a vibrant patio experience. Settle in to the bustle of downtown Oakville with a glass of pinot and a wood fired pizza.
Set in a picturesque courtyard, the King’s Arms is an Oakville institution. They offer an eclectic menu of British style pub fare and a range of beers on tap.
Open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Kerr Street Cafe is a great option to maximize your patio play during the day. Their elevated food and beverage experience will satisfy even your foodiest of friends. KSC is also family friendly, offering kids menus, high chairs and quick service!
Situated on the corner of Lakeshore Road and Reynolds, this lush patio is the perfect people watching place for summer meals. Enjoy delicious offerings from their Italian menu and impressive wine list.
Did we miss a patio? Email us and let us know! Contact us here.
Summer is the season for day trips, and the charming town of Dundas should be on everyone’s bucket list. The picturesque town offers an array of activities for all ages and interests. Steeped in history, the downtown is filled with one-of-a-kind boutiques and eateries in a setting that combines old world charm and new world vibrancy. Situated on the west end of Hamilton, it’s a short scenic drive from Oakville and Burlington.
Planning your perfect outing is easy – whether you love nature, shopping, food, history, or all of the above! From hiking and cycling to downtown shopping and al fresco dining, there are so many ways to fill your summer afternoon, evening or entire day in this gem.
Explore oldworld charm
Dundas has a rich history that has been carefully preserved, giving the downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods their distinctive character. Incorporated as a town in 1847, many of its original heritage stone buildings and houses (built in the mid- to late-1800s) remain.
The Dundas Town Hall, built in 1849 is one of a few municipal buildings in Ontario built before 1850. It is said to have cost £2,500 to build! Interested in learning more local history? Visit the Dundas Museum, located at 139 Park Street West.
While strolling through downtown Dundas is a perfect way to appreciate the architecture of a bygone era, you may also wish to explore the surrounding neighbourhoods to spy the beautifully preserved heritage homes. Here’s a little trivia: the older buildings in Dundas were constructed using local stone sourced from the Niagara Escarpment surrounding the Dundas Valley. Do a self-guided tour by car or foot when you visit – the Dundas Heritage Association offers maps for both online.
Go for a hike or bike in nature
Dundas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it is surrounded by lush Carolinean forests, streams, waterfalls and of course the stunning escarpment. Within this beautiful setting is a network of trails for hikers, runners and cyclists of varying abilities (strollers are welcome!) Residents and visitors, alike, flock to Hamilton’s conservation areas in full bloom through the summer.
Hike the Dundas Valley Conservation Area
The Dundas Valley Conservation Area has more than 40 km of trails, including the Bruce Trail, that traverse forest, meadows and wetlands, and provide stunning panoramic views. You may also choose to walk, run, or ride the Brantford to Hamilton Rail Trail; the Hamilton section follows the scenic Dundas Valley for 18 km.
Get splashed by waterfalls
Drawing thousands of visitors every summer are the awe-inspiring waterfalls of Dundas. Webster’s Falls is one of Hamilton’s most iconic falls — a 22-metre curtain waterfall that spills over tiered rock. Within walking distance is Tew Falls. This ribbon waterfall is 41 metres high, making it the tallest one in Hamilton. It can be reached from Webster’s Falls via hiking trails.
Due to the popularity of some conservation areas, you may need to reserve your spot online beforehand at hcareservations.ca.
Shop and dine in Dundas
Make your way to King Street at the heart of downtown Dundas. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with locally-owned boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. Many businesses are housed in heritage buildings which creates a wonderful sense of nostalgia.
Stroll along the street and pop into the many specialty shops and clothing boutiques. Find fine arts and crafts, sporting goods and jewellery, as well as a selection of home, garden and kitchen goods. On a typical summer day or evening, patios buzz with people enjoying delicious fare, cool drinks and live music. Parking is free Saturdays and Sundays.
Be sure to consider these well-known shops and eateries when planning your visit to Dundas.
Food & Drink:
Beanermunky Chocolate is a locally-owned chocolatier tempting you with mouth-watering treats.
Micky McGuire’s Cheese offers a vast range of artisanal cheeses, sourced from around the world by its proprietor.
French Revolution Bakery & Creperie is owned by a French pastry chef (need we say more.)
The Cookie Doh Factory serves sweet edible cookie dough in its original factory and shop for a truly original experience.
The Urban Vine is Hamilton’s largest premium olive oil and aged balsamic tasting boutique with a vast assortment of fresh oils, blends and aged balsamic vinegar.
Detour Coffee is passionate about all things coffee, sourcing and roasting in small batches to ensure the perfect java.
Collins Brewhouse is a local brew pub serving craft beers and pub food in an inviting atmosphere with a great patio for summer dining.
Quatrefoil offers French cuisine, wine and splendid service in a refined, yet relaxed, environment with a charming patio to enjoy lunch or dinner.
Colins Patio
Detour Coffee
Home & Garden, Décor & Gifts:
The Handmade House is a purveyor of one-of-a-kind goods handmade by creators who live within a two-hour drive of the shop.
The Keeping Room is a local favourite selling everything you can imagine related to eating and cooking.
Mrs. Greenway sells a wide assortment of green, eco-friendly products that are good for the environment and good for us too, plus you can bring in your containers and refill.
The Kitchen Witch is an entertaining little gift shop, perfect for finding hostess gifts, containers, linens, antiques and curiosities.
Graham & Brooks combines a selection of antiques, vintage pieces and home décor ideas with a unique treasure trove of architectural artifacts and salvaged items.
Fashion & Jewellery:
David William Shoes has been serving customers since 2008 with an extensive array of carefully chosen and unique collections of fine footwear, handbags and apparel.
Sell it 2 Wear it is a designer consignment store with a variety of clothes and accessories for women and men.
HV Creative Jewellery has been offering custom jewellery design and repair on site for over 30 years.
Kids ‘N Krafts carries 100% cotton casual wear for children of all ages, from babies through to teens.
Anglesea Home Accents & Apparel is your source for thoughtfully designed and curated new and vintage clothing and home décor items.
Dundas Cactus Festival
Summer events in Dundas
Before you plan your visit, be sure to check out the latest events happening in Dundas. Many restaurants have live music throughout the summer and downtown is always bustling with excitement on weekends.
Every Tuesday night in the summer, enjoy music under the stars when a concert band performs at the Dundas Driving Park amphitheatre. This historic site close to downtown includes playgrounds, a roller/ice rink, splash pads and public art.
The Dundas Cactus Festival takes place August 18-20. You won’t want to miss this family street festival that offers free local entertainment, vendors and family fun. Dundascactusfestival.ca
Check Downtowndundas.ca and @dwntwndundasbia for the most up-to-date offerings.
Top thingsto do in Dundas this summer
Take a hike in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area
Stroll and shop for locally made goods in Downtown Dundas
Learn the history behind Dundas’s oldest heritage buildings
Eat a freshly made chocolate or baked treat in Downtown
Think you’re powerless to help the environment? Think again. A patch of soil is all you need to support pollinating insects and birds. You can easily transform a garden bed, or even planters on a balcony, into a colourful habitat that’s brimming with life.
What’s all the buzz?
Over time, garden centres have introduced increasingly “showy” plants that are easy to grow. Unfortunately, these human-bred cultivars support only a fraction of the wildlife that native plants do. The good news is that any home gardener can help rebuild lost habitat and renew the ecosystem.
Pollinator gardens clean our air and filter our water. They require little, if any, watering once established and don’t need fertilizer. Their extensive root systems control erosion, heal soil and absorb storm water. Most importantly, they support life and give endangered pollinators a fighting chance.
How the magic happens
When pollinators search for food, they’re often directed by light patterns and scents that flowers give off. According to Charlie Briggs, director-at-large for Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, many insect pollinators only travel a few hundred feet from their nest to locate the native flowering plants they have co-evolved with.
“Many pollinator species have very specific relationships with certain families of plants, or even exact species that they require to continue their existence,” Briggs says.
When a pollinator recognizes its plant, it will feed on nectar, pick up pollen, drop pollen to the next plant… and essentially sustain life on this planet.
Getting started
Your pollinator garden should include various bloom colours, sizes, shapes and plant heights to attract a diversity of pollinators. More than just flowers, the best pollinator garden should also include host plants – where a pollinator lays eggs, eats and lives. Flowers are great for inviting pollinators to visit, but host plants are how you get them to stay! So include native forbs (wildflowers), grasses, shrubs and trees in your garden.
Keystone species in Ontario include asters, goldenrods, sunflowers and strawberry. Some beautiful native sedges and grasses are ebony sedge, fox sedge, switchgrass, Indian grass, and ‘big’ or ‘little’ bluestem.
“Pollinator-friendly gardens will support pollinators in every stage of their lives from larvae to adults,” says Apryl Lark, a volunteer with Butterflyway Hamilton. “This requires not only flowers that produce pollen and nectar but host plants that provide food for their larvae.”
What about balconies?
You can plant in containers if they’re large enough to support root systems and hold enough water. Containers require frequent watering. If your containers get full sun, consider planting black-eyed Susan, and a host plant such as wild strawberry or butterfly milkweed. For shade, you can plant Christmas ferns, Solomon’s seal, and wild columbine, wood asters or Pennsylvania sedge as host plants.
Where to find native pollinator plants
Mainstream garden centres don’t sell many of the true native plants that pollinators recognize. Try these sources instead:
• Nurseries that grow native species (see sidebar). Also, many gardeners order native plants from sources such as onplants.ca.
• Networking and events. Look for “Seedy Saturday” events in your area where people buy or trade seeds and plants and exchange gardening tips. Or join your local naturalists’ group, where members often sell or give away native plants.
• Harvest seeds. Many of the hardest working native flowering plants are overlooked by us on our forest and road side borders. This fall, take a paper bag and pick a few. “Common milkweed and New England aster can be easily found in southern Ontario,” Briggs says. “Ripe seeds, when sewn in your garden in the fall, will reward you with your own plants come spring time.”
Have fun creating your own little patch of paradise. Millions of life-sustaining microorganisms, insects and birds will thank you.
Kids love to play in the dirt. Caring for a garden can turn playtime into a fun learning experience and, psst, it may even help you sneak veggies into their diet.
Check out the many benefits of making gardening your family’s new hobby.
Appreciation of where food comes from
Growing a garden not only helps kids connect with nature, but introduces them to sustainable living. “Seeing that growing fruits and vegetables can have challenges, such as weather, animals and insects, makes us more aware of the effort that farmers put into producing the products that fill the produce aisles in the grocery store,” says Valerie Kristjanson at Connon in Waterdown. Kids may be less inclined to let food go to waste, as a result.
An outdoor science classroom
While kids are digging in the dirt, they learn about weather, soil, plant classification and how food grows. It’s a safe way to experiment (without worries about kitchen explosions) and see the “fruits” of their labour.
If they grow it, they will eat it
Looking for a way to encourage your kids to eat their greens? A garden might be your gateway. Cutting herbs or plucking string beans are both easy ways to get kids to help in the kitchen. “Harvesting your salad for dinner is rewarding and a good way to involve kids in the meal prep and, hopefully, encourage them to want to eat what they’ve grown,” says Kristjanson.
Watch your patience grow
Patience is a virtue, but not an easy skill to develop in this age of video streaming and instant messaging. Gardening provides an opportunity for kids to exercise their patience muscle as they wait for seedlings to mature and bear fruit. Crops take time to harvest; just make sure you involve them in the garden’s progress or they’ll lose interest.
Kid-friendly plants to grow
Some plants are more challenging than others. When gardening with kids, you’ll want to choose plants that are relatively low maintenance and yield a crop quickly. To save time, consider buying seedlings at your local garden centre.
Beans and peas
These kid-friendly vegetables are delicious and quick-growing. Beans and peas emerge from the soil after about a week of planting from seed and are ready to harvest in about six weeks.
Lettuce
Lettuce grows quickly and allows for planting more than one crop per season. You may even get your kids to enjoy eating a salad! Just be sure to wash thoroughly, bugs love to nestle in the leaves.
Carrots
This simple crop is one that most kids love to eat. They take around 60 days to germinate but are easy to grow from seed.
Cherry tomatoes
A kid-favourite for their size and sweetness, cherry tomatoes are easy to grow as long as they are given lots of sun and water. Consider buying seedlings to cut kids’ waiting time.
Sunflowers
These larger-than-life flowers are easy to grow and have great appeal for kids.“It’s fun for kids to stand beside them and watch them get taller,” says Samantha Harvey, manager at Terra Burlington.
Gardening tips for kids
Keep it simple.A small raised bed or a few potted plants in a sunny spot is all you need to get started. You may even want to give your child one pot to take care of to foster responsibility.
Skip the plastic tools. Give kids real metal tools and kid-sized gloves so they can work effectively. Having real tools acknowledges the work they’re doing and helps build independence.
Kids can enjoy the benefits of gardening at any age.This summer, consider nurturing a lifelong appreciation for nature, fresh veggies, and (if you’re lucky) cooking with a family garden.
There’s just something about Niagara. Whether it’s the falls, the boutiques, the wineries, or the escarpment, we never seem to get enough of it. Home to five districts, the Niagara region includes the bustling streets of Niagara Falls, the food and breweries of St. Catharines, the spectacular escarpment, picturesque wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) and the sandy beaches of the South Coast. Whatever your style, Niagara Region does not disappoint.
Activity lovers can head to Niagara Falls, where adventures await. From jet boat tours to water parks and haunted houses, a trip to Niagara Falls inspires your inner child to let loose and have fun. Accommodation is plentiful, with affordable stays on the main strip and more extravagant hotels at the foot of the falls. Niagara Falls also features two new world-class attractions: Zipline to the Falls and Whirlpool Adventure Course. Purchase day passes or night passes if you want to see the lights by the falls.
St. Catharines offers a charming downtown experience for shoppers and foodies with a variety of restaurants and a plethora of nature trails for hiking. Situated an hour west of Toronto, it’s a great change of scenery.
For cyclists, the Niagara Region offers a large network of trails worth exploring. The 53 km Waterfront Trail offers breathtaking views from the shores of Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and the Niagara River. If you prefer a more relaxing tour, drive along the escarpment to NOTL.
The Niagara wine route offers a view of expansive vineyards to stop at along the way. Dotted with markets and fruit stands throughout the summer, you can make a quick stop at the side of the road for fresh produce and home-baked goods. If you have yet to taste a Niagara peach in July, it’s a must-do experience.
13th Street Winery
13th Street Winery | Farmhouse Bistro
Wineries offer tours, wine tastings, and outdoor cafes – from large estates to small boutique establishments, like 13th Street Winery. Its stunning retreat setting is perfect for an afternoon or evening out. Sample wine at the tasting bar, peruse the 13th Street Gallery with a butter tart from the bakery, or enjoy outdoor dining at the Farmhouse Bistro (between May and September.)
If planning your own tour seems like too much work, leave it to the pros. Crush Tours offers world-class Niagara tours of local wineries and breweries year-round. Cruise in comfort in a luxury vehicle as you travel from site to site to fully immerse yourself in each experience.
For a one-of-a-kind tasting you won’t find anywhere else, the Spirit in Niagara Distillery is worth a stop for its unique tasting bar and patio. Sip homegrown spirits, such as vodka, gin, bourbon and a myriad of eau de vie fruit spirits and bitters in a stunning setting.
Crush Wine Tours
NOTL is home to a plethora of restaurants and bistros, featuring chefs that offer farm-to-table dishes and local fare. A sumptuous dinner out can be paired with a performance at the Shaw Festival. Now entering its 61st season, it features 14 plays this year and runs from February to December.
For a beach getaway, pack the cooler and head to the South Shore – an artsy, historic region with a beachy vibe. The sand beaches of Lake Erie include well-known Crystal Beach, Crescent Beach and Long Beach. After soaking the rays, head into town via the Niagara South Coast Arts & Culture Route, which runs from Fort Erie to Wainfleet.
The Niagara Region is less than an hour west of Burlington by car and about an hour and twenty minutes from Toronto. The short distance from the GTA makes it ideal for a weekend getaway or a day trip if the mood strikes. The scenic drive along the lake will set the tone for an exciting or restful time away, depending on your destination plans.
The sun is shining, the weather is warm and Downtown Oakville has everything you need to create lasting memories this summer! Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are endless opportunities to explore this lakeside gem. Experience the charming downtown vibe and its lineup of new businesses, outdoor events and picturesque patios. Always buzzing with activity, this is the place you’ll want to visit, time and again this sunny season. So, get ready to sizzle this summer, Downtown Oakville style!
Upcoming summer events (you won’t want to miss)
Downtown Oakville’s summer schedule is packed with events every weekend. Mark your calendars to avoid missing your favourites (some require pre-registration).
For fitness enthusiasts
Summer Sweat should be on your radar. This open-air fitness series, led by health and wellness experts from Downtown Oakville, offers free workouts for the mind and body in Towne Square every Saturday in June and July.
Enjoy live performances every weekend in Towne Square. Tap your toes to Friday Night Jazz, 7–9 p.m. or the TD Summer Music Series every Saturday and Sunday at 3–7 p.m., showcasing various musical genres brought to life by a diverse range of talented musicians.
For families
Look out for pop-up events that offer one-of-a-kind interactive experiences to entertain the whole family.
Celebrate Canada Day on July 1 Starting at 3 p.m. at Towne Square with Canadiana music, a patriotic photo pop-up and giveaways to the first 250 visitors.
Get sweet on International Ice Cream Day on July 16 In Towne Square. Grab a free gelato at 11 a.m. courtesy of Nyla’s Room (while supplies last).
Starting August 12, explore Los Trompos An immersive and interactive art exhibit featuring five larger-than-life, three-dimensional spinning tops. For the young and young-at-heart, this exhibit gives new meaning to the art of play.
Downtown Oakville is thrilled to welcome many new vibrant businesses. The summer is an ideal time to try one (or all) of the latest additions to the culinary scene.
Nadège Patisserie
Indulge in delicious pastries at this new patisserie by fourth-generation French pastry chef Nadège Nourian. A game-changer in Toronto’s pastry scene, this latest Oakville boutique is already a favourite among many.
Avani Rolls & Bowls
If you want to experiment with Indian cuisine, this fast-casual restaurant can be a good start. Whipped up with fresh ingredients, its signature curries or rolls are worth a try.
Mercato Sociale Italian Market
For the days you crave traditionally prepared Sicilian food, sandwiches or salads or look for fresh pasta, lunches, meals to go, or even pantry items to make an Italian meal at home, this market is your saviour.
Oakberry
New to the neighbourhood, it offers a healthy fast food option with delicious açai bowls and smoothies. The açai used is 100% natural, and the recipes are free of preservatives, dyes, trans fats and cholesterol.
Mochi Girls
For some sweet goodness on a dry summer day, you must try signature donuts like strawberry cheesecake, churro, and earl grey at this gourmet Japanese donut shop. You can just walk in to try their in-house daily specials.
Kung Fu Tea
If you are a fan of Boba tea, you must pop by this latest spot featuring freshly brewed tea. They have all kinds of toppings – bubbles, milk cap, beans and jellies – you just name it!
Hōseki Sushi
If sushi is more your style, this fine dining restaurant will soon serve a daily selection of 25 menu items made with freshly prepared seafood imported directly from Japan. (Coming Soon!)
Fresh Kitchen and Juice Bar
To satiate your vegan palate, this popular spot from Toronto is opening its Lakeshore Road outlet this summer, offering plant-based and healthier options. (Coming Soon!)
Maverick’s Donuts
Soon, you’ll experience the “Maverick” of donuts at this store, where gourmet flavours will transport your taste buds to new heights and make the summer sweeter. (Coming Soon!)
Al fresco dining is back with 30+ Downtown Oakville patios
From brunch with friends to date night, Downtown Oakville’s collection of idyllic patios offers the perfect setting for outdoor dining.Take your pick from chic, trendy spots to intimate and cozy nooks. The downtown has a patio that caters to every mood and occasion. Check out the Downtown Patio Guide at oakvilledowntown.com/patio-guide for a complete listing.
Ready, set, summer!
With a menu of tempting events, budding new businesses, and stunning patios, Downtown Oakville promises an unforgettable summer experience. Whatever your preferences, this bustling downtown hub has something for everyone.It’s time to catch the summer vibe, gather your friends or loved ones and make your way to Downtown Oakville. You’ll surely be back for seconds!
Spice up how you serve your appetizers and snacks with these fun bowls and platters. Available in lots of different sizes and with many different messages!
Creative cocktails and mocktails are always a highlight of patio dining. The Gatsby Cocktail Shaker has a classic measured cap and strainer, with an electroplated gold finish and elegant etchings that recall Art Deco architecture.
415 Elizabeth Street – Unit 37 Village Square, Burlington 365-595-0106 campbellcohome.com
Mrs. Greenway
The Brumate Hopsulator trio is a 3-in-1 can cooler. It holds a 16oz can and includes a freezable adapter for 12oz cans. When not used as a can cooler it also converts into a 100% leak proof pint tumbler.
These unbreakable glasses are lightweight and look and feel like glass. Made from a high-quality polycarbonate, they can be thrown in the dishwasher without fear of ever chipping, hazing, or cracking.
It began 23 years ago with a clothing rack, a whole lot of compassion and a woman named Mina Wahidi. Mina saw people struggling – the working poor, refugees, newcomers – and wanted to help. She set up a clothing rack in her basement and invited people to take what they needed.
Four years later, with many volunteers in hand, they moved to a church basement to accommodate the growing need. When they outgrew that space, they moved to White Oaks plaza in Aldershot. Now located at the Fairview and Brant St. plaza, the aptly named Compassion Society of Halton continues to serve residents in need.
“She wanted to help people who were struggling and the numbers kept growing and growing,” says current executive director Aliya Khawari, describing Mina who stepped down in 2014 and passed away in April this year.
The founder leaves an incredible legacy. The Compassion Society is one of the most successful charities in the region. It provides clothing, food, hygiene and self-care items, special seasonal programs and social services to residents of Halton.
The organization currently has 733 active households that have accessed their services at least once in the last four to six months. It receives no government funding (with the exception of a Trillium grant) and is fueled by 135 volunteers who pick up donations, sort shelves and help clients at the store, which is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“Nothing is bought and nothing is sold,” says Aliyah who began as a volunteer, but was recruited to lead the organization due to her exceptional skill set. She’s a researcher with a PhD in developmental economics.
Aliya believes the organization has gained such respect because of the individual attention they provide each person. If a student needs a prom dress, a volunteer will help her pick one out. If a woman has left an abusive relationship and needs a back-to-work wardrobe, they will help her build one.
“We take pride in treating people with dignity,” says Aliya. “It’s not a dingy place. It’s really dignified. Everything is nicely set up with love.”
In 2017, the Compassion Society added another service in an effort to address the root causes of people’s difficulties. It helps people access the resources they need to move forward with their lives. No two cases are the same, says Aliya. Perhaps one person hasn’t finished high school, while another doesn’t know how to write a resume. One of their most memorable clients was a construction engineer. He had 25 years of experience building skyscrapers in Dubai, but could not get a job after moving with his family to Canada. By the time he came to the Compassion Society he’d run out of savings. Thanks, in part, to a referral by a volunteer, he landed a high-paying job in Nunavut. He moved his family with him and eventually started a food bank.
“We hear hundreds of stories like that,” said Aliya. “The community of volunteers make me cry every day. It’s a community that gives and gives and gives.”
As Canadians, we reluctantly accept that we have long winters and too-short summers.And it means we all understand that we have to pack in as much outdoor activity as we can in the summer months.So as the first spring shoots poke through in the garden and the ice and snow finally melt away, we are READY….. to spend some time lingering in the sun on a patio, open the pool, clean up the yard, make the first trip to the cottage, and if you are a golfer, to dust off the clubs and get out there for the first round of the season.
We are fortunate in Halton to have an amazing selection of great public golf courses to choose from, all within a 45-minute drive of home.They offer a vast diversity of terrain and degree of difficulty, so you can choose to experience them all, or pick a couple of favourites and focus on those.
If you are planning to play a lot this season, then it will make sense to take advantage of a coupon book.For example, the Greens Fee Passport available from www.golfpassport.com offers savings at 170 golf facilities in Ontario and upstate New York.Golf Fore All is another program that offers savings at about 120 courses in Ontario (www.golfforeall.ca).You will find the savings from these programs usually pay for the upfront cost within a couple of rounds.
Most golf courses in Ontario offer discounts for seniors playing on weekdays.Make sure to call ahead or do your research online, and book your tee times early.The popularity of the game has surged since the pandemic, and it may be difficult to get the tee time of your choice at many courses.
With so many great local courses to choose from, it is not easy to pick our favourites.But here are a few courses we recommend.You won’t be disappointed at any of them.
Part of the Kaneff Golf group, in the beautiful area between Carlisle and Kilbride.A cozy collection of three nine-hole courses, with rolling greens, tall pine trees, and generous fairways. This is a shot-maker’s course, so accuracy is key.Watch out for the signature 6th hole on the North course, a par 5 with a dog leg to the right and a very narrow fairway. Lots of balls have been lost in the farmer’s field to the left of the fairway!
In the picturesque village of Lowville, locally owned and operated, this 18-hole course is built into the side of the Escarpment.It may be helpful to have one leg longer than the other as you will need to play lots of side of hill shots!You can drive a mile from the long downhill par 5’s, but be prepared for a good workout if you choose to walk this course. The sunset views across the valley on a summer evening are spectacular.
Formerly known as Indian Wells, this 18-hole championship course is in a spectacular setting beneath the towering cliffs of Mount Nemo, with beautiful views from many of the holes.This is a challenging course with water hazards on 6 of the holes on the front 9, and narrow fairways and mature forests on the back 9.
Just north of Burlington, and now part of the Clublink family, Hidden Lake has been in operation for over 60 years, and offers two distinct 18-hole championship courses.The Old Course is a more traditional tree-lined course with small greens, that allows glimpses of the “hidden lake” on the 16th and 17th holes.The New Course has larger greens, more generous fairways, and plenty of water.
This is a great course to play early in the season.The gently rolling fairways drain well, and they pride themselves on offering great value and a challenging experience for novice and experienced golfers alike.The back 9 is a bit more challenging than the front.
Located just north of Oakville, Angel’s View is a 9-hole regulation length course, and Mystic Ridge is a shorter 18-hole par 63 course. Both are ideal to introduce new players to the game and the par 3 is perfect for kids just starting out. Choose your club carefully on the 9th hole heading back to the club house – the hydro wires cross the fairway and present an interesting additional hazard!
Located not far off the 403, just beyond Ancaster, is this very different and special gem. Set in beautiful countryside with no houses to be seen, this Tom Pearson designed course offers a unique wide-open experience for the serious passionate golfer. Most notable is the 10th hole – a par 6 (not a typo) which requires you to hit over 3 ravines! Beautifully maintained, carts only.
Owned and operated by the City of Hamilton, and located in the picturesque Red Hill Valley at the foot of the Escarpment, this municipal course is long and challenging. There are some terrific elevated tee shots, lots of interesting dogleg holes, and six holes requiring you to navigate the Red Hill Creek which traverses the course.
