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 13^th 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 18^th, Friday, June 19^th and Saturday, June 20^th. 

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 17^th– 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! 

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.

Visit Oakville invites visitors and residents to experience an exciting lineup of  events and activities happening throughout Oakville this March. From cultural celebrations,  exhibits and performances to immersive downtown experiences and live entertainment, there are countless reasons to plan a visit and explore all that Oakville has to offer.  

“March is an exciting time in Oakville, with events that celebrate culture, creativity and  community,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville. “Whether you’re coming  for fun and adventure at Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival, to enjoy delicious  dining at Taste of Oakville or a fun day trip or weekend stay, Oakville continues to offer  memorable experiences that showcase the town.”

Here are Oakville’s top must-see and do experiences for March: 

 Taste of Oakville – On until March 15 – Indulge in delicious prix fixe menus from over 50 amazing restaurants from across Oakville, starting at just $20 for lunch and $30 for dinner! Discover live music on Tuesday nights at select restaurants and new this year,  enjoy our cozy Dining Domes at The King’s Arms and 7 Enoteca for a unique, winter dining experience!

Maple Syrup Festival – March 1, 7, 8, 14-22, 28 & 29 – Experience one of Ontario’s  sweetest traditions at Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival. Running  during March Break and every weekend in March, this beloved annual event offers a fun  and educational look at how maple syrup is made. Families can explore the park’s  historic Spruce Lane Farmhouse, enjoy wagon rides, and of course taste delicious  pancakes topped with fresh maple syrup. 

Celebrate Eid in Oakville – Join the community for Oakville’s Eid Festival on March 14,  a celebration of culture and connection. Don’t miss the Eid Bazaar on March 19, where  visitors can explore festive treats and offerings.

Downtown Oakville’s Loop Experience – March 14-April 6 – Starting during March  Break, experience Loop, an interactive light installation transforming Downtown  Oakville’s Towne Square. This immersive outdoor event invites visitors to engage with sound and light in a playful, creative way. Tip – Spend the afternoon shopping, strolling  the lakefront and stop for lunch or dinner at any of the amazing downtown restaurants.

Oakville Museum’s March Break Craft and Tour – March 17-20 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:00  p.m. – Step back in time with the Oakville Museum’s special March Break craft workshop  and enjoy a guided tour offering a glimpse into Oakville’s rich history. (Ages 4-12 plus  adults). Children ages 6-10 can join morning workshops from 9:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. creating hands-on projects like terrariums, woven birds and more.

St. Patrick’s Day – On March 17, raise a glass and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at one of Oakville’s many lively venues such as The Firehall, The King’s Arms, The Queen’s Head, Oakville’s Temple Bar, Harper’s Landing, or The Oakville Pump & Patio where you’ll find festive drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere!

Experience the Outdoors with a Nature Walk – Get the kids outside and active with a walk at an Oakville park, trail or garden. Whether you bring the family for a scenic lakeside walk, explore local history at one of Oakville’s heritage trails or simply peruse one of our picturesque gardens, you’re sure to fall in love with Oakville’s outdoor offerings. The trails are also great to cross-country ski or snowshoe as well.

Additional March Family Fun: 

• iFly Oakville: The whole family can explore their adventurous side with indoor skydiving  at iFly! 

• Dave & Buster’s Oakville: Play arcade games and enjoy classic bites. On March 1, K Pop fans won’t want to miss the K-Pop Meet & Greet. 

• Lollipop Art Lounge: Spend the day crafting and creating. 

• Aerosports Oakville: Bounce your way through trampoline fun. 

• Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts: Catch Curious George and the Golden  Meatball on March 18 at 1:00 p.m.  

• Playlicious: Super fun indoor playground with climbing walls to slides, ball pits, and  obstacle courses. 

• Crack Pot Studio: Paint pottery or try your hand at the pottery wheel. Various  classes/times and drop-in sessions.  

• Steamulation Lab: On March 22, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. sessions – Their Playdough Makers Workshop is the perfect mix of science, creativity, and sensory fun.

• VR Vibe: Experience Oakville’s most exciting VR escape rooms & immersive shooting games.

Looking for a place to stay in Oakville? With so many great hotel options to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay is easy.

Explore our accommodations and book your stay today to experience the best of Oakville during March!  For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website:  www.visitoakville.com/events.

The Burlington Public Library is introducing an exciting lineup of Valentine’s Day events, activities, and book displays at library branches across the city next month. From February 1 to 14, visitors will find playful programs, cozy reading inspiration, a creative bookmark contest, and more special events and activities to celebrate.

“We’re bringing a little extra love to Burlington this February with free Valentine’s Day events and activities for all ages,” says Tammy Csajaghy, Manager of Programming & Partnerships at Burlington Public Library. “We’re especially looking forward to the Valentine’s Day edition of our open mic event for singers, writers, and musicians to share their talents and stories.”

Free Fun Activities 

From February 1 to 14, all BPL branches will have a Blind Date with a Book display of books in brown paper bags. Each surprise book comes with a short description but no title or author. It’s like a literary blind date!

Visitors can also participate in the annual Burlington Bookmarks Contest for all ages. Pick up an entry form at any library branch and create an original, hand-drawn submission inspired by a book you love. Winning designs will be professionally printed and distributed in library branches throughout 2026. Kids can also jump into the fun with a drop-in Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt and colouring activities at library branches from February 1 to 14.

Free Valentine’s Day Events 

All programs are FREE and do not require a library card to attend. Check out the library’s website for a full list of all love inspired programs and events in February.

Farah Heron Talks Romance

Critically acclaimed author Farah Heron, Just Playing House, talks about writing romantic comedies.
Tue February 10, 7-8pm. Register. Central Branch .

Love, Hate & Popcorn Teen Movie Night

Celebrate an early Valentine’s Day with friends at a screening of the cult-classic Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.
Thu February 12, 6:30-8:30pm. Central Branch.

Romance the Open Mic

Singers, writers, poets, and musicians, share your talents—and speak your heart! Appreciative audience members are welcome.
Sat February 14, 1-2:30pm. Doors open at 12:30pm for sign-up. Central Branch.

The Story of Aida

Sabatino Vacca, Artistic Director of Southern Ontario Lyric Opera, talks about Verdi’s passionate opera masterpiece, Aida.
Tue February 17, 7-8:30pm. Register. Central Branch.

For more information about programs, events and things to do for Valentine’s Day, visit Burlington Public Library’s website.

Look Local invites you to support these businesses which have recently opened in our community! Check them out and pay them a visit!

502 Urban Coffee
2362 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
www.502urbancoffee.com

502 Urban Coffee opened in beautiful Bronte this summer, after their initial success selling coffee at the Bronte Farmer’s Market.  The owner, Leticia, is originally from Guatemala, and is delighted to bring the rich aroma and heavenly fragrance of delicioso café to the local community.  She sources her coffee from small coffee growers with artisanal methods who craft exceptional coffee infused with love.

Drop in to enjoy a hot drink on site, or shop from a selection of beans to take away. Leticia will be happy to welcome you and explain your options.

Café De Madrid
137 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.cafedemadrid.ca   

This authentic Spanish style café opened in Downtown Oakville this summer, and has been getting rave reviews ever since.  With a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of warmer climes, and friendly personal service, the stage is set for a memorable visit.  Drop in for a delicious coffee, or stay for a pastry, lunch or dinner.

Their menu stays true to their Spanish roots, with a selection of shared plates, open face sandwiches (pintxo classico), tapas and salads.  For dinner, the star of the show is their Paella de Mar Clasico, served with tiger shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams and peas.

Lunula Self Care Studio
355 Plains Road East # B9, Burlington
www.lunulaselfcare.com 

Lunula opened in Aldershot in September, offering a full array of services to enhance your natural beauty, including manicures, pedicures, eyelash treatments, and waxing. They use non-toxic, certified organic, and cruelty-free products, and offer a community space to connect, catch up, and feel like you belong.

Fully wheelchair-accessible spaces, adaptive service areas, and flexible seating make everyone feel welcome – perfect for self-care, beauty, and even a craft cocktail. The space is beautifully decorated – and don’t miss the fantastic mural at the rear of the building exterior if you are taking photos!

Tabule Oakville
234 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.tabule.ca   

The first Tabule opened on Yonge Street in midtown Toronto in 2005, and quickly earned a reputation for being one the finest Middle Eastern restaurants in Toronto.  From there, they have grown to 5 locations, with the latest venue opening in downtown Oakville in the fall of 2025.

The team at Tabule pride themselves on creating fresh interpretations of traditional dishes, offering some of the best Middle Eastern cuisine in the area.  You can expect vibrant, flavourful, authentic cuisine, served in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.  Join them for lunch or dinner 7 days a week!

Wellness by Flea
64 Hamilton Street North # 18, Waterdown
www.wellnessbyflea.com 

Wellness By Flea opened in the heart of Waterdown in the fall of 2025, with a mission to empower their members to reach their full potential, both physically and mentally, inspiring a balanced and healthy lifestyle. They have a team of dedicated professionals to support and guide their members on their fitness journey.

They offer a diverse range of programs in order to cater to a range of fitness goals and preferences. Options include the Youth Athletic Training program, the Adult Fitness program, and their innovative Parent Combined Fitness program for families. Wellness By Flea also aims to be more than a fitness sanctuary, engaging with the local community to host events and drive initiatives aimed at promoting holistic health and wellness.

The Mule Oakville
191 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.themuleoakville.ca 

The Mule opened their first restaurant on King William Street in downtown Hamilton, and enjoyed immediate success.  You can now enjoy The Mule in 6 locations, including Downtown Burlington, and since the fall of 2025 in downtown Oakville.

The vibe is most definitely hip, laid back and Mexican.  Come here for a fabulous selection of chef-inspired tacos, traditional guacamole and salsa, and of course Tequila cocktails. The menu is also 100% gluten free, with many vegetarian options.

NEWLY INHERITED
422 Pearl Street # 23, Burlington
newlyinherited.ca

This curated boutique opened in Burlington’s Village Square last year, with a vision inspired by a French market and the romance of a life well lived. You will find a selection of fashion and home décor items, as well as gift ideas and resort wear. Female-owned and family-inspired, this is a gathering place for pieces that speak to both past and present. Canadian-made garments crafted from natural fibres, sustainable décor from local artisans, and vintage treasures with character, are all carefully chosen to reflect a thoughtful lifestyle

WOOF GANG BAKERY & GROOMING
133 Bronte Road Suite B1-B, Oakville
woofgangbakery.com

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming opened in Bronte Village late last year, offering full-service pet grooming and a wide selection of nutritious pet treats and food. They also carry stylish essentials, fashionable accessories, and a wide variety of toys and doggie spa products. The team at Woof Gang treat every pet as family, giving them special care so that they feel loved, and they leave looking and feeling their absolute best.