12 Months, 12 Themes, 12 Adventures for Readers!

The Burlington Public Library (BPL) is inviting the community to make 2026 a year of adventure and discovery by joining the BPL Reading Challenge! Online registration is now open for the free 2026 challenge. The goal of the challenge is to read one book on a featured theme each month starting in January 2026. 

The challenge isn’t just about reading more—it’s about reading differently. Choose your own book each month while using the themes to explore genres, styles, and topics you might not pick otherwise. In 2025, over 750 people signed up for the challenge to discover new authors, new voices, and new perspectives.

How it Works:

The 2026 BPL Reading Challenge is easy to join and take part in:

1. Register for free online or at any Burlington Public Library branch. Anyone with a library card from Burlington or our Halton Region, Hamilton, and OverDrive partner libraries can join the challenge. Getting a BPL library card is free if you live, work, or attend school in Burlington.

2. Read one book each month based on a theme. Pick any title that fits the theme. The Library provides recommendations through booklists for print books as well as eBooks and eAudiobooks, to help you choose from a wide variety of options! 
3. Check in online via the library website to track your progress and have a chance to win prizes! Every completed month earns you an entry into a monthly prize draw and a grand prize at the end of the challenge.

Reading Challenge Themes:

• January: A book about a journey 
• February: A book that makes your heart skip a beat 
• March: A book that makes you laugh out loud
• April: A book published at least 25 years ago
• May: A book with extraordinary or magic elements 
• June: A book that explores identity and acceptance 
• July: A book with a number in the title
• August: A book about a real person or event
• September: A book by an Indigenous author
• October: A book that features a library 
• November: A book that sends shivers down your spine
• December: An old favourite or a new discovery

So what are you waiting for? Join the adventure and make 2026 your best year of reading yet!

The Burlington Public Library belongs to everyone in the community, providing open and equitable access to information, digital & print collections and resources, public computers, and a vast array of programs and services. Six full-service branches and a rural lending location offer welcoming spaces where visitors can explore, discover, reflect, learn, improve, create, and connect with others. Stay in touch with us online at bpl.on.ca, and on Instagram and Facebook @BurlONLibrary.

For further information, please contact:

Krista Schwab (she/her)
Manager, Marketing and Communications 
Burlington Public Library
Office: (905) 639-3611 ext. 1303
Cell: (289) 962-0390 schwabk@bpl.on.ca

The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is inviting the community to gather one last time for a truly special evening — the final year of the beloved Candlelit Stroll, set to take place on Friday, November 28th, 2025, in Burlington Downtown.

For over 10 years, the Candlelit Stroll has marked the start of the holiday season, filling our downtown streets with the warm glow of candles, festive music, and the joyful spirit of community connection. This year’s event will honour that legacy while celebrating the memories, partnerships, and generations of families who have made the stroll part of their annual tradition.

“The Candlelit Stroll has been such a magical part of Burlington’s holiday experience,” says Brian Dean, Executive Director of the Burlington Downtown Business Association. “As we bring this cherished event to a close, we want to say thank you to everyone who has joined us over the years — our local businesses, performers, volunteers, and of course, the thousands of residents who made it so special.”

The evening begins at 6:00 PM in Civic Square / City Hall, where visitors can pick up a complimentary candle and enjoy live entertainment before embarking on the stroll through Burlington’s beautifully decorated downtown streets. Festive shop windows, hot cocoa, and live performances will fill the area with holiday cheer, offering a picture-perfect sendoff to this signature community event.

The BDBA will also be looking to the future to highlight new and evolving holiday programming for 2026, ensuring that the downtown continues to shine brightly with new traditions in the years to come.

“While we’re saying goodbye to the Candlelit Stroll, we’re also looking ahead to the next chapter of downtown celebrations,” adds Dean. “We can’t wait to share what’s next.”

We warmly welcome residents, visitors, guests and everyone in between to come celebrate the final Candlelit Stroll — one last magical evening of light, laughter, and community in the heart of Burlington Downtown.

For more information and updates to the event animations and activities please visit burlingtondowntown.ca/candlelit25/

Press information

For media inquiries, please contact:
Alison Policicchio, Marketing Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
marketing@burlingtondowntown.ca

For inquiries pertaining to the BDBA, please contact:
Brian Dean, Executive Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
brian@burlingtondowntown.ca

The BDBA is a not–for-profit association responsible for the vitalization and promotion of our vibrant Downtown business community. A special levy constitutes the organization’s budget and allows the Board and their sub committees to execute programs and events with great volunteer support of the membership on behalf of all of the members within our boundaries.

The BDBA promotes our dense commercial area as a vibrant business and shopping district. Through the use of promotional activities such as special events, advertising, and beautification programs, we aim to keep the area foremost in the public’s mind as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained, to work, and to live. We want to make the quality of life for our Downtown businesses and services better.

Our efforts are dedicated to ensuring a healthy economic environment for our community and making our Downtown a better place to shop, dine, live, work, invest, visit and play.

Don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting out and getting local!

The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is excited to announce the launch of the Feet to the Street: Explorer Pass. This interactive itinerary pass officially debuted on November 1, 2025, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore Burlington Downtown this winter season through a series of curated walking routes.

Developed to encourage off-season exploration and engagement, the Feet to the Street: Explorer Pass offers a fresh way to experience Burlington’s vibrant downtown. Participants can choose from several pre-built routes, each mapped by distance from one to six kilometers. At every one-kilometer marker,  users can check in via GPS and discover nearby businesses and services, making each walk both active  and informative.

To add to the excitement there are 14 participating businesses participating in the pass. All 14 locations  have their own GPS guided check in. While you’re checking in with the pass, make sure to them out! 

The BDBA is proud to feature Craigs Cookies Burlington, Culaccino Bar & Kitchen, Joseph Brant  Museum, Kinetic Physiotherapy, Megs Octopus Garden, Minty Gold & Silver Exchange, The Mule, Off  the Runway, Paradiso Burlington, radius, The Rocca Sisters Team, Simply Gifted Burlington, Village Cigar  Company & Barbershop & Woven Clothing Boutique + Styling.

Thirsty after your first route? Our restaurant menu’s will have you covered! Chilly on your walk? Our retailers incredibly cozy’s will warm you right up! Perhaps you’re a bit sore after all those steps. Not to  fear, our professional service members will be there to count on.

To make the experience even more rewarding, the BDBA has added a gamified element to the pass.  Each check-in earns participants points, which can be accumulated and redeemed for a $50 Burlington  Downtown Gift Card. Accepted at more than 85 local businesses, the gift card provides an opportunity  to support Burlington’s small business community while exploring all that downtown has to offer.

“The Feet to the Street: Explorer Pass is an exciting way to stay active, shop local, and discover  Burlington Downtown in a new light,” said Alison Policicchio, Marketing Director, Burlington Downtown  Business Association. “By combining outdoor exploration with local discovery, this initiative brings our community together even in the colder months.”

The Feet to the Street: Explorer Pass is free and available to all. To learn more and register, visit burlingtondowntown.ca/explorerpass/ for more info.

Press information:

For media inquiries, please contact:

Alison Policicchio, Marketing Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
marketing@burlingtondowntown.ca

For inquiries pertaining to the BDBA, please contact:

Brian Dean, Executive Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
brian@burlingtondowntown.ca

The BDBA is a not–for-profit association responsible for the vitalization and promotion of our vibrant  Downtown business community. A special levy constitutes the organization’s budget and allows the  Board and their sub committees to execute programs and events with great volunteer support of the  membership on behalf of all of the members within our boundaries. 

The BDBA promotes our dense commercial area as a vibrant business and shopping district. Through the  use of promotional activities such as special events, advertising, and beautification programs, we aim to  keep the area foremost in the public’s mind as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained,  to work, and to live. We want to make the quality of life for our Downtown businesses and services  better. 

Their efforts are dedicated to ensuring a healthy economic environment for our community and making  our Downtown a better place to shop, dine, live, work, invest, visit and play.

The businesses of the Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) are proud to present the fourth season of the free, festive fall celebration, Falling for Burlington Downtown, bringing the community together to enjoy the best of autumn in Burlington.

On October 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., the downtown core will transform into a hub of fall flavors, festive activities, community spirit and live music. Guests can enjoy pumpkin-inspired bites and hearty comfort dishes perfect for sweater weather, while exploring Civic Square and Brant Street for games, interactive activities, and countless photo opportunities. Village Square and the Promenade Walkway will also feature local tastes and sweet surprises from some of Burlington’s favorite businesses.

With more than 400 small businesses to shop, dine, and sip from, Burlington Downtown offers everything from cozy fall fashion and home comforts to unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

For those seeking a quiet moment during the festivities, a sensory zone will be available, complete with gentle lighting, soothing sounds, and event staff on hand to assist.

Samantha gets up after sleeping in a bit. It’s Thursday, her usual day off, but this one happens to be her 29th birthday. She stretches and smiles, excited to be spending this warm autumn day right here in her home town of Ancaster.

There are errands to run, but not before breakfast. Her favourite aunt, Michelle, wants to treat her to breakfast at Caniche French Bakery. Samantha once bought a six-pack of macarons there but hasn’t spent time in their dining room.

On her way out, she spots something in her mailbox: a gift bag of peanut brittle and some chocolate covered Oreos, from Chocolate Sensations! The tag says, “B-day Sweets to our Sweetie. Love, Mom and Dad.” A wonderful treat for later!

At the bakery, Michelle is already seated by a sunny window and enjoying a cappuccino. “Happy Birthday!” she says with a smile (and a slight crema moustache).

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

Tim Hortons is right next door, so she stops in for a dark roast. While standing in line, she sees her neighbour, Jack. Just back from Bodywise Health & Rehab, he is gushing over how they have relieved his stiff neck.

Less than a minute up Wilson Street is the Ancaster Public Library. Once inside, she finds the Braveheart DVD she’d put on hold. First Ontario Credit Union and Rexall are just down the road, so she gets cash out at the ATM (to tip tonight’s bartender!) and then buys some shampoo and a tinted, mint-flavoured lip balm.

Back outside, the sweet-smelling autumn air reminds Samantha of one more errand. Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing left a message two days ago, saying her picture was ready.

The man at the counter fetches her 11”x17” framed picture from a back room and calls it “a beauty.” And wow, he’s right. By sheer luck, while exploring Canterbury Hills with her beloved whippet, Stella, Samantha managed to grab her phone in time to capture a pileated woodpecker up close, on a tree trunk, almost beak-to-snout with her dog.

Dad calls to remind her about Saturday. For her 30th birthday next year, her parents are already planning on Sunday brunch at Ancaster Mill, complete with a waterfall view, but this Saturday also sounds like heaven — drinks, along with cured meats, antipasto, and decadent cheeses from The Muse Charcuterie. It will be a small, family affair at the Ancaster home where she grew up.

That evening, after chilling at home for a while, Samantha prepares for the real festivities. She brushes her long hair smooth and puts on her favourite pink dress, which goes perfectly with her burgundy nails from her recent manicure at The Spa at Ancaster.

Her designated driver, Peter, picks her up at 8. When they arrive at The Coach and Lantern, all of her work friends and school buddies wave excitedly. One friend, Sasha, has brought her ukulele and is the first person on stage for the 8:30 Open Mic. She surprises Samantha with a sweet rendition of Justin Bieber’s “Baby,” a song from their high school days.

Feeling at home in their cozy 200-year-old neighbourhood pub, Samantha and her friends feast on Irish nachos, popcorn shrimp and bruschetta while toasting the occasion with cocktails, mocktails, and ale. After the Open Mic, their server delivers sticky toffee pudding with a lit candle in it. After she blows it out, her friends surprise her with a mini orchid garden in a pretty white pot from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

Late that night, before drifting off to sleep, Samantha feels grateful for her friends and hometown. If this is 29, she thinks, 30 will really be awesome.

Birthday In My Home Town
SAMANTHA’ S TO -DO LIST

• Meet Aunt Michelle at Caniche French Bakery for breakfast.
• Thank Mom & Dad for the treats from Chocolate Sensations.
• Pick up skirt from Pioneer Cleaners.
• Pick up laptop from Ancaster Computer Products.
• Get DVD from Ancaster Public Library.
• Go to ATM at First Ontario Credit Union.
• Stop in to Rexall (need shampoo).
• Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing says my woodpecker photo is ready!
• Go home, feed pets, walk Stella, have lunch, nap.
• Birthday dinner at The Coach and Lantern!

FOLLOW- UP NOTES FOR MY JOURNAL…

Great birthday, and so many great places close to home! Other important mentions:

While grabbing a dark roast at Tim Hortons I chatted with my neighbour, Jack. He looked great after his treatment at Bodywise Health & Rehab.

Dad called to confirm Saturday’s lunch from The Muse Charcuterie and is already looking forward to celebrating my 30th next year at Ancaster Mill. The Spa at Ancaster did a fab job on my nails.

I just love the mini orchid garden my friends got me from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

OAKVILLE – Summer is officially here, and there’s no better time to explore everything Oakville has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a seasoned local, or visiting friends and family, Oakville is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway to enjoy exciting events, cultural celebrations, and breathtaking natural beauty.

“Summer in Oakville is filled with pleasant surprises,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director at Visit Oakville. “From the gorgeous waterfront and vibrant downtown to parks and festivals, you are moments away from local flavours, family fun, outdoor adventure and more.”

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

• Friday Night Jazz – June 27 – July 18, 7:00-9:00 p.m. – Swing into the weekend with the smooth sounds of jazz at Towne Square in downtown Oakville on Friday nights! Join in for an unforgettable evening by John Canham & Joe Dukes—featuring a talented quartet that bring classic jazz vibes to life.
• Bronte Lake Notes – Runs until August 28, 7:00 p.m. – Enjoy FREE live music under the sails at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park every Thursday evening.
• Canada Day Celebration – July 1 – Join in on July 1 at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. for a spectacular community celebration hosted by the Town of Oakville that includes family activities, food, entertainment and fireworks at the end of the night. The Bronte Legion will also celebrate with food trucks, beer & wine garden, a market, kids’ activities, live music and more! Downtown Oakville will also have live entertainment, family-friendly fun, local vendors, and festive surprises throughout the day.
• Bronte Farmers’ Market – July 6 – September 28, 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 8 – August 12, 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 Latino Festival – From July 25-27, Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park transforms into a lively celebration of Latin culture, food, music and dance.
• Art in the Park – August 4, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Over 180 incredible artists will showcase their talents in painting, sculpture, photography, jewellery, ceramics, woodworking, glass art and more at Oakville’s premiere art event at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
• Emancipation Day Picnic – August 4, 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 8-9, 7:00 – 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 30 – Enjoy Afro-Caribbean food, music, and culture at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park. Free and fun for all ages!
• KerrFest & KerrFest Kids – September 5-7 – This family-friendly music and community festival lights up Westwood Park. Kerrfest will run September 5-6 and Kerrfest Kids will be on September 7.
• Art in My Garden – September 6, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Tour the gardens of historic Oakville and experience art in a truly unique setting. Stroll and see up to sixty artists at thirty host gardens.

And That’s not all – Oakville is a haven for outdoor lovers and foodies alike. With over 1,400 hectares of parkland and many scenic waterfront trails perfect for hiking or biking, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in the beauty of the season. After a day of exploring, refuel in Oakville’s thriving food scene, which includes Hexagon, one of just 15 restaurants in Ontario to be awarded the prestigious MICHELIN Star. And don’t forget to stroll through Oakville’s charming downtown – home to a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and more that will make it a summer to remember.

Extend your visit with a stay at an Oakville hotel or at Bronte Creek Provincial Park, which offers overnight camping for the perfect nature escape. Learn more here.

For more information and to plan your stay visit: www.visitoakville.com. To view even more fun events, 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.

For more information, please contact:
Christa Poole
Visit Oakville
christa.poole@visitoakville.com

The Burlington Downtown Business Association is thrilled to announce the return of Movies by the Lake — the popular free outdoor movie series hosted weekly in Spencer Smith Park.

Now entering its fourth season, this cinematic summer staple runs every Tuesday evening from July 8 to August 19, 2025, featuring a star-studded lineup of nostalgic favourites sure to delight film fans of all ages.

Set against the scenic shoreline of Lake Ontario, Movies by the Lake transforms Tuesday nights into unforgettable community experiences. Whether you’re a classic comedy lover, an action enthusiast, or just in it for the popcorn vibes, there’s something for every moviegoer under the stars.

All screenings begin at dusk. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring their own chairs or blankets, and enjoy a pre-show experience by exploring Burlington Downtown’s 400+ local businesses. Whether you grab dinner and drinks, shop for treasures, or stroll by the lake, it’s your chance to package the perfect cinematic night out.

Back by popular demand is Movie Trivia, the ultimate warm-up act for film buffs and casual viewers alike. Flex your film knowledge with new questions each week, covering everything from iconic movie scores to legendary villains.

This event is all-ages, alcohol-free, and includes accessible seating and on-site support. Guests are asked to use discretion regarding film content and to be mindful of others during the show.

In the event of inclement weather, screenings will be cancelled. Real-time updates will be posted via our Instagram and Facebook platforms.

For the full movie lineup, showtimes, and event details, please visit our website at www.burlingtondowntown.ca/movies2025.

Press information

For media inquiries, please contact:

Alison Policicchio, Marketing Manager
Burlington Downtown Business Association
marketing@burlingtondowntown.ca

For inquiries pertaining to the BDBA, please contact:

Brian Dean, Executive Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
brian@burlingtondowntown.ca

The BDBA is a not–for-profit association responsible for the vitalization and promotion of our vibrant Downtown business community. A special levy constitutes the organization’s budget and allows the Board and their sub committees to execute programs and events with great volunteer support of the membership on behalf of all of the members within our boundaries.

The BDBA promotes our dense commercial area as a vibrant business and shopping district. Through the use of promotional activities such as special events, advertising, and beautification programs, we aim to keep the area foremost in the public’s mind as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained, to work, and to live. We want to make the quality of life for our Downtown businesses and services better.

Our efforts are dedicated to ensuring a healthy economic environment for our community and making our Downtown a better place to shop, dine, live, work, invest, visit and play!