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Spring into March: Exciting Events and Experiences Await in Oakville!

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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.


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Have a sweet time at the library this February 

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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.

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New Local Businesses

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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.

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Feeding Frenzy: Savour the best from local chefs at Taste of Burlington & Taste of Oakville

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Food lovers, rejoice! Some of the best culinary experiences in the region can be found right here in Oakville and Burlington, and there’s no better time to explore them than during Taste of Oakville and Taste of Burlington. These two-week events invite diners to enjoy special prix-fixe menus crafted by talented local chefs. They are the perfect opportunity to discover new restaurants or revisit longtime favourites.

Taste events arrive at just the right time — mid-winter, when the blues can creep in and people look for reasons to get out of the house. They provide an opportunity to explore local flavours, catch up with friends and family, and break from routine. 

“Every year, we hear from residents who look forward to the event. Many use it as inspiration to try something new,” says Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director of Visit Oakville. 

Taste events help people appreciate the high-quality dining experiences available close to home. “You don’t have to go to Toronto to get these foodie culinary experiences,” says Claire Green, Director of Destination Development and Marketing at Burlington Economic Development and Tourism. “We have them right here.”

Celebrating neighbourhood gems

Avani

Taste events are a platform for local chefs to showcase their creativity. Each participating restaurant offers prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus, making it easy for diners to explore a range of cuisines and price points. 

Not just downtown hotspots are featured. Oakville diners can look forward to the return of beloved favourites to the lineup in 2026, including The King’s Arms, 7 Enoteca, Coriander Green, Buca Di Bacco, Puckz Pub, Sugar Suite, JAC’s Bistro, Stack BBQ Smokehouse, Paradiso, Sweet! Bakery, and Ritorno.

Verace

Green highlights restaurants throughout Burlington — from Loondocks at Appleby Line, to Pepe and Lela’s at Appleby and Upper Middle, to District in Aldershot — and encourages residents to explore restaurants in their neighbourhoods.  “We have an amazing assortment of chef driven restaurants, and it gives people the opportunity to explore these venues,” says Green.

This year, Taste of Burlington is adding a fun and interactive twist to the culinary adventure with a digital pass through Bandwango. Diners can check in at restaurants, earn points, and enter giveaways.

A boost for restaurateurs

Taste events play an important role in supporting the local culinary scene. Last year, Taste of Burlington refreshed its event marketing program by putting chefs front and centre. Local chefs appeared on CHCH Morning Live segments to share the stories behind their dishes. Green says this storytelling focus will continue in 2026, shining a light on the talent and passion that make the city’s food scene so special.

Bardo

Green notes interest from restaurants has been stronger than ever, with 20 restaurants signing up for Taste of Burlington within the first 24 hours of applications opening. The event is on track to exceed the 30 participating restaurants in 2025. 

Oakville is seeing similar enthusiasm. According to Edgar, 84% of participating restaurants report increased business during Taste of Oakville, and 98% say the event brings in new customers. Even neighbouring businesses benefit. “With these additional diners comes increased foot traffic into our business areas, and heightened awareness of what Oakville has to offer during what is historically a slower time of year,” she says.

Ready to taste it all?

Familia Fine Foods

Both Taste of Oakville and Taste of Burlington run for two weeks, giving you plenty of time to visit one restaurant — or five. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just someone who enjoys a great meal, these events offer an affordable, low-pressure way to try new flavours, support local businesses, and celebrate the culinary talent in your community.

So gather your friends, book a table, and let your taste buds lead the way. 

Taste of Burlington – January 26 – February 8, 2026

tasteofburlington.ca

Taste of Oakville – February 19 – March 15, 2026

tasteofoakville.ca

By Lisa Evans

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Enzo’s Marinara Sauce

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The secret to any tomato-based pasta dish is the marinara sauce. In typical Italian fashion, making it is an art….. simple, quality ingredients blended together in perfect harmony and cooked for just the right amount of time to optimize the flavour of the sauce. 

You can easily make this one at home or pick up a jar ready to go at Mercato Sociale in Downtown Oakville.

Combine the sauce with gnocchi or pasta from your local grocery store, or pick up fresh pasta also made daily at Mercato Sociale.

INGREDIENTS:
(makes enough sauce for 6 servings)

  • 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 2.5 kg San Marzano canned whole tomatoes
  • 3 cloves of garlic, peeled but not crushed
  • 150 g salt
  • 1 small white onion
  • 1 generous bunch of basil

(For 6 servings, this sauce requires approx 900 g of pasta.)

METHOD:

  1. Chop the onions small, and add them plus the olive oil and the whole cloves of garlic to a saucepan. Cook gently until the onions are brown and tender.
  2. Add the tomatoes and bring to the boil, then add the salt and the basil leaves. Basil should be added as whole leaves not chopped or shredded.
  3.  Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Then remove the whole cloves of garlic, and use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.
  5. Serve with your favourite gnocchi or pasta.

Recipe Courtesy of: 

Mercato Sociale House
257 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville
905-338-7564
mercatosociale.ca

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Herb Provincial Turkey Stuffing

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INGREDIENTS

  • 2 small onions (diced)
  • 2 celery stalks (halved & diced)
  • 12 cups dry bread crumbs (method below)
  • 2-4 cups water or dietrichs golden chicken broth
  • 2 cups Dietrichs old fashioned bacon (cooked and diced)
  • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced & cooked)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp basil
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 2 tsp ground sage
  • 2 tsp savoury
  • 2 tsp Dietrichs steak spice
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  •  salt & pepper to taste

METHOD

  1. If you are making your own bread crumbs, preheat oven to 300F. Cut or tear any type of bread (brioche or french stick is our favourite) into 1/2 inch cubes. Place them in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cook for 10 minutes – be sure NOT to brown or toast it.
  2. Preheat oven to 350F
  3. Place bacon in a single layer on a baking tray with parchment paper. Cook for 10 min per side. Chop bacon and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet at high heat, allow to get hot. DO NOT ADD any fat and add mushrooms to dry/hot skillet. They will “squeak” which is perfectly normal. Stir mushrooms until cooked – approximately 5-7 min. Allow to cool slightly.
  5. In the same large skillet – reduce to medium heat and add favourite fat (butter, tallow, oil). Add onion, celery, poultry seasoning; cook until tender (or onion becomes slightly translucent) – approximately 10-12 min. Allow to cool slightly.
  6. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onion mixture, mushroom and bacon. Pour 1 cup of water (or broth) overtop and mix together. Add more water (broth) a little at a time until mixture is moist – but not soggy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Place mixture in a baking dish & cover with foil. Bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until brown on top.
Dietrichs’ offers premade stuffing, sides, and gravy as well as locally sourced turkey & meats. Christmas pre-orders are available by walk-in, phone or visiting dietrichs.ca until Sunday, December 14th!
Recipe Courtesy of: 

Dietrich’s Butcher
260 Speers Rd #13, Oakville
(905) 847-5295
dietrichs.ca

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Herb Provincial Turkey Stuffing

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Inside the 2025 Oakville Holiday Home Tour: A Community Tradition With Heart

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Every holiday season, Oakville comes alive with familiar traditions, from the tree lighting downtown to neighbourhood streets glowing with festive lights. One event, however, has become a favourite for residents who love design, architecture, and a chance to support local charities: the Oakville Holiday Home Tour organized by St. Andrews.

Running for more than four decades, this tour invites the community to step inside a curated selection of homes decorated for the season. Eight homes across Central Oakville, Old Oakville, Southwest Oakville, and West Oakville participated in 2025, each offering a different take on holiday styling and reflecting the character of its neighbourhood. With designers contributing to every stop, the tour has evolved into a snapshot of Oakville’s design culture as much as a festive outing.

This year, one of the featured homes belonged to an agent with the Goodale Miller Team. The residence, a recently completed custom build in Central Oakville, stood out not only for its architecture but also for the thoughtful way it embraced seasonal decorating. As a team deeply rooted in Oakville’s neighbourhoods, GMT was proud to see one of its own homes included in this long-standing community event.

The homeowners partnered with Sheridan Nurseries to style the home for the tour, choosing a natural and cohesive approach that felt true to the home’s design. The home itself was designed by Keeren Design Inc. and built in 2023 by Butler and Lowe Inc., a local builder who also completed another stop on this year’s tour. Their work, combined with Sheridan Nurseries’ holiday styling, created a cohesive look that resonated with visitors. While the seasonal décor offered a moment of inspiration, the experience also highlighted the craftsmanship and planning that shape many of Oakville’s custom homes.

Beyond the design and architecture, the tour continues to make a meaningful contribution to the community. Proceeds support several local organizations, including Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, Kerr Street Mission, Fareshare Food Bank, Home Suite Hope, Canine Vision Canada, and Ian Anderson House. Each year, the event raises funds for initiatives that directly affect families across Oakville.

“The tour has become a lens into Oakville’s culture, showcasing the town’s strongest examples of how architecture, design, and philanthropy intersect. The range of homes highlight how quality construction remains central to Oakville’s identity.” — the Goodale Miller Team

Another hallmark of the Home Tour is the range of designers involved. Each stop on the route is styled by a different firm or design professional, offering visitors a variety of perspectives and ideas. This year’s lineup included Debeck Interiors Inc., Baudit Interior Design, Studio E, Lucy Lennox Interiors, Lisa Gray, Hali MacDonald Interiors, RP Design, and Sheridan Nurseries. Their collective effort transformed the event into a town-wide celebration of creativity.

With its blend of beautiful homes, charity support, and design inspiration, the Oakville Holiday Home Tour continues to be one of the town’s most-loved traditions. Whether residents joined for décor ideas, neighbourhood exploration, or simply the festive atmosphere, the 2025 tour offered something for everyone.

For the full story and complete photo gallery of the Central Oakville home, visit the Goodale Miller Team blog: goodalemillerteam.com/blog/oakville-holiday-home-tour-custom-home

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Confit Leg Of Duck with Crisp and Creamy Sunchoke & Sour Cherry Jam

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Confit Duck Leg

Ingredients:

  • 3 × 10 oz duck legs
  • 2 ½ tbsp salt
  • 4 ½ tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground star of anise
  • Small strip orange peel
  • ⅛ tsp cumin seed
  • ¼ pod cardamom (or a small pinch of ground cardamom)
  • 1.5 litres of duck fat (enough to fully submerge legs)

Method

  1. Combine all dry ingredients and orange peel in a bowl. Rub evenly over the duck legs and let sit 24 hours refrigerated.
  2. Preheat oven to 325 °F.
  3. Rinse and pat dry the duck legs. Place into a heavy-bottomed pot and cover fully with duck fat.
  4. Bring just to a gentle boil, remove from heat, cover with foil, and place in the oven.
  5. Cook 2–3 hours, until fork-tender and meat pulls easily from the bone.
  6. Remove from fat, cool slightly, and serve.

 

Crisp and Creamy Sunchoke (or Jerusalem Artichoke)

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lb sunchokes, cleaned and scrubbed
  • 5 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Method

  1. Slice ½ lb sunchokes thinly and fry at 350 °F until crisp.
  2. Peel remaining 1 lb sunchokes. Add to a small saucepan with the butter and 2 tbsp water.
  3. Cook gently until soft, then pass through a fine sieve until smooth and creamy. Keep warm and serve.

Sour Cherry Jam

Ingredients:

  • ⅔ cup sour cherry jam
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • Juice of ⅓ lemon

Method

Simmer in a small saucepan until thickened and slightly tart. Cool before using.

Recipe Courtesy Of:

Spencer’s on the Waterfront
1340 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
905-633-7494
spencers.ca/

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Confit Leg Of Duck with Crisp and Creamy Sunchoke & Sour Cherry Jam

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Pan Seared Pickerel with Charred Broccolini & Romesco Sauce

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ROMESCO SAUCE

You can make this sauce in advance and refrigerate until needed. 

 

INGREDIENTS

  • Roasted red peppers (strained) – 1 litre
  • Toasted almonds (sliced) – 1½ cups
  • Canned tomatoes – 1 cup
  • Sherry vinegar – 2 tbsp
  • Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
  • Extra virgin olive oil – 1½ cups
  • Salt – to taste

METHOD

  1.  Combine all ingredients in a Vitamix or high-speed blender.
  2.  Blend until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
  3. Heat through before serving

PAN-SEARED PICKEREL

METHOD

  1.  In a hot non-stick pan with 1 tsp of cooking oil, place your portion of pickerel skin side down. Gently press the fish to prevent the skin from curling- this ensures an even sear and crisp, golden skin. Cook skin side down for 4-5 minutes, until the fish is approximately three-quarters cooked through.
  2.  Flip the fish and begin glazing. Add the juice of half a lemon to the pan and allow it to reduce in volume by half. Add 1 tbsp of butter and swirl the pan as it melts to emulsify the glaze. Once fully incorporated, remove from heat. Plate and serve immediately.

CHARRED BROCCOLINI

METHOD

  1. Clean and trim broccolini to desired size. Blanch in boiling water until tender to your preference, then finish in a hot cast-iron pan with butter, lemon, a touch of garlic, and chili flakes for flavour.
Recipe Courtesy of: Bardo Burlington
419 Brant St, Burlington
(905) 412-5699
bardorestaurants.ca

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Burlington Public Library Launches 2026 Reading Challenge

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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:

BPL_Reading_Challenge_Poster_Closeup_optimized_350

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.
  1. 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! 
  2. 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

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