Symposium Cafe Restaurants opened their first location in 1996 and quickly became well known for their inviting atmosphere and diverse menu. With a prime location at the corner of Upper Middle Road and Third Line, and a reputation for excellent service, Symposium Cafe Restaurant in Oakville has become a go-to for locals looking for casual upscale dining.
Seafood PastaTeriyaki Salmon
Situated in the heart of North Oakville, Symposium Cafe offers something for everyone. Whether it’s a casual business lunch, a romantic dinner for two, or a gathering with family and friends, the restaurant provides a comfortable and relaxed environment. The interior is tastefully decorated with a mix of modern and classic elements, creating a unique and inviting dining ambiance for guests.
Bruschetta FlatbreadZucchini Bowl
One of the main attractions of Symposium Cafe is its extensive menu, which caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is proudly open both early morning dining and late night cravings. The breakfast options range from classic favourites like omelettes and French toast to lighter choices like yogurt bowls and fresh fruit. For lunch and dinner, the Symposium Restaurant menu offers an array of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pastas, and main courses specials including seafood, chicken, and steak.
Petit FiletFish and Chips
Symposium Cafe Oakville prides itself on using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of desserts and specialty drinks, including delicious coffees and fantastic milkshakes, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
French ToastFried Chicken Benedict
The team at Symposium Cafe Oakville makes it their goal to always provide guest focussed service. Whether it’s guiding guests through the menu with recommendations, accommodating special requests for dietary needs, or ensuring service that makes dining memorable, the staff members go above and beyond to delivery exceptional hospitality that makes all diners feel welcome.
Avocado Toast
Symposium Cafe Restaurant Oakville is your go-to destination for casual upscale dining. Its convenient location with ample parking, warm and inviting ambiance, along with its diverse menu, and quality service make Symposium an Oakville favourite among locals and a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
Summer is an opportune time to volunteer as a family. The kids are off school, the weather is beautiful and it’s a great way to spend time together. Plus, there’s no better way to learn about charitable giving than through hands-on experience contributing to a healthy and caring community.
There are lots of groups in need of help throughout the summer, making it easy to find an experience that aligns with your family’s interests and time commitment. Although most charities and organizations require volunteers to be over 15 or 18, kids can still help out behind the scenes in a variety of ways. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas to get you planning your first family volunteer experience.
BurlingtonGreen
Sue Alksnis from BurlingtonGreen says a great way for families to help out is to organize a clean-up either in their neighbourhood or at a park, stream, schoolyard or other area.
“You can include just your family or invite neighbours or friends to join as well,” says Alksnis, who is the volunteer and community engagement manager for BurlingtonGreen.
More than 12,000 people have taken part in clean-ups this year and the group’s goal is to register 15,000 people by the end of 2023. BurlingtonGreen provides free supplies, including bags and gloves. Find tips on how to organize a clean-up on their website.
Ribfest
There are two ribfests in Halton over the summer: Oakville Family Ribfest and Canada’s Largest Ribfest in Burlington. Both events are always in need of volunteers. Burlington’s event needs help collecting recyclables, litter and waste from around the festival venue, as well as assistance with set up and signage in and around the park.
Global Medic
Global Medic is a registered charity based in Oakville that provides disaster relief and lifesaving kits. Volunteers are needed to assemble and pack food kits, fundraise, load boxes, make local deliveries and staff booths at conferences. Children are welcome to help but may need adult supervision.
The Humane Society
For families with teens who love animals, the Burlington Humane Society is looking for reliable volunteers who can feed pets and clean the areas where pets live. There are shifts in the morning and afternoon, and they are open seven days a week. Volunteers must be able to read, write, follow instructions and work independently and must complete a three- to four-hour training session.
Helping Seniors
Do you have a well-behaved pet that loves people? Pets can be therapeutic, especially for seniors, which is why many retirement homes welcome visits from furry friends. Reach out to retirement homes in your area to find those open to pet visits. Some retirement homes are open to volunteers reading to residents, which may be a great opportunity for a parent and child to volunteer together.
Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides
Fostering a puppy is a fun way to get the family involved in a charity. The foundation provides trained dogs to people who have disabilities, but before being placed, each dog spends a year with a foster family to be taught house manners and basic obedience to prepare them for formal dog guide training.
Raising Funds
The majority of charities operate on shoestring budgets and appreciate any donations. Got a cause that’s close to your family’s heart? Pick a charity and organize a fundraiser! Think bake sales, lemonade stands and garage sales to earn money to give to your charity of choice.
There are so many ways parents and kids can volunteer in the community. Whether you choose to help an organization, or come up with your own way to make a difference, involving the entire family in charitable giving is a rewarding experience that develops empathy, compassion and a sense of duty toward others.
Fostering community support and boosting the local economy — Craftadian is thrilled to announce the return of the Burlington Market at the Ron Joyce Centre on Saturday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
With over 65 talented artisans from Ontario, this vibrant market is the perfect opportunity to shop locally and discover unique handmade products. Discover the unique creations of Burlington’s craftiest artisans! With woodwork Turnings by Jim, Fury Hot Sauce, Those Crafty Fingers’ novelty crochet gifts, and so much more, you won’t want to miss this fantastic showcase of talent! From stunning jewellery and stylish clothing to unique home decor and captivating art, you’ll be sure to find something special.
Here’s why shopping locally is so important: It encourages the growth of our local economy, as a significant portion of every dollar spent remains within the community. Plus, by purchasing handmade goods directly from artisans, shoppers can gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each product and cultivate meaningful relationships.
Remember, admission is just $5 per person (free for children under the age of 16), and parking is free! To secure tickets and take advantage of early bird prices of $4 per person online, shoppers are encouraged to purchase their tickets online.
What: Craftadian Burlington Market
Where: 4350 South Service Road, Burlington, ON L7L 5R8
When: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $5 at the door (Under 16 years of age free) or buy online for only $4. Free Parking
About Craftadian
Founded in 2011, Craftadian showcases local handmade products designed and made by Canadian artists, artisans, and designers. A jury of experts selects exhibitors from various categories, including original artwork, body care, candles, clothing, ceramics, accessories, jewellery, photography, pottery, paper goods, toys, woodwork, and gourmet items. Craftadian also produces unique events across Ontario.
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!
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.”
The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is excited to welcome back its Solo Date Days digital passport program for a second year!
The first year for this initiative was so successful we just had to do it again! The Solo Date Days pass takes you through Burlington Downtown on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation. Stop in at 17 different downtown businesses and enjoy some shopping and pampering while discovering and supporting local.
The pass is free to sign up for and easy to use. Once you have signed up for your pass, you will receive an email or text notification to your phone, allowing you to easily save the pass to your phone’s home screen. Simply open the pass when visiting a participating business to check-in and start your experience! Participating businesses include retail businesses, personal and wellness services, casual dining and more.
Grab a sweet treat, shop handmade goodies, get your fit on, or book a pick-me-up at the salon. Spend your days exploring a variety of experiences, from shopping to dining, relaxation to wellness, all in your own backyard. The beauty of the pass is that users can make it their own. Craft your own day of self-appreciation and care, based on what works for you. With 30 days to utilize your pass, the options feel limitless.
Contest prizing is available to those participating in this pass. Each check-in and redemption, at each store, is assigned a points value. For example, 150 points for a check-in and 100 points for a redemption. Users collect points as they work to complete the pass. Every 1,000 points collected can be exchanged for one (1x) entry to a random draw to win one of 3 (three) $50.00 Downtown Gift Cards, redeemable at over 70 businesses in Burlington Downtown. Each check-in and redemption gets you a little bit closer, what’s not to love?
“The Solo Date Days pass encourages residents and visitors alike to enjoy some pampering and self-love while supporting downtown businesses,” says Alison Policicchio, Marketing Manager for the BDBA, adding “whether you’re ending a long week, getting ready to start a new one, or just looking for some quiet personal time, there is a stop on this pass for everyone. You get all the feel-good vibes while making a powerful impact in your community, and that’s really something.”
The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) has kicked off patio season with the installation of new walkways/pedestrian by-passes throughout the Downtown small business community. Over 125 meters of new public infrastructure has been built in five strategic locations throughout the BIA (Business Improvement Area).
The by-passes will accent areas with a significant concentration of eateries, including: Pine Street, John Street, Elgin Street and along the north dining corridor of Lakeshore Road. These custom-built new walkways are designed to elevate the dining experience throughout the core as they safely navigate patrons and visitors throughout our heralded dining district.
Each walkway system will feature a pair of stand-alone planter boxes, with seasonal plantings, to beautify the experience. There are ten planter boxes in total, stationed at the entrance and exit points to the wooden walkways. Each walkway will work to attract thousands of diners, visitors, and residents throughout the City of Burlington’s confirmed patio season: May-October 2023.
”These “pop-up” features have actually taken months to design and finance though they are being installed over the course of one day. Downtown dining is intimately linked to our brand, tourists and locals have come to view our small business waterfront community as a Mecca for dining in Halton Region. As they should, we have well over fifty exciting restaurants and eateries to explore. These installations fulfil two important parts of the BDBA’s mandate- beautification and enhancing public infrastructure, and we’re doing it all in a stylish way”, said Brian Dean, Executive Director of the BDBA.
Liza Bouchard-Bain, Chair of the BDBA Board of Directors agrees. “We could not wait one more season to showcase a centrally-managed, world-class walkway system. For too many seasons our patio experience has been tainted by orange barriers demarking the public/private rights of way. We received significant feedback that this made for a poor aesthetic when enjoying a meal outdoors on a warm summer evening. The Board listened and responded with an elevated look and feel on nearly every street corner.”
Look Local is a small business headquartered in Downtown Oakville, and we’ve been riding the entrepreneurial rollercoaster for about ten years now, navigating the ups and downs as best we can. Along the way there have been many lessons, successes, failures, and more challenges than we could list; but one of the best things we did when we started this business was join the local Chambers of Commerce. Like anything, you get what you put into it – but if you’re currently operating a local business, or thinking of starting one – joining your local Chamber of Commerce is a must.
“Joining and engaging with your local Chamber opens up a vast network and opportunity to tap into support that is unique to your business needs”, says France Fournier, President and CEO of the Oakville Chamber. One of the primary benefits of joining the Chamber is access to networking opportunities. Both the Oakville and Burlington Chambers host regular events and meet ups where members can connect with other local businesses and build relationships. This can be especially valuable for small businesses looking to expand their customer base or establish partnerships with other businesses.
However, don’t expect to join your local Chamber and sit back and relax while the business pours in. You still have to be engaged, and participate – even if networking is outside your comfort zone.The best ROI on your membership often comes indirectly; a tip from a fellow local business, knowledge of a business grant you can apply to, or simply a referral from one business to another.
In addition to networking opportunities, the Chambers offer a variety of resources and services to their members. This includes access to educational resources and training programs. “All our members are different, so there is no one reason why they join. It’s always a combination of our three pillars; connecting leaders, active advocacy and educational opportunities”, says Terry Caddo, President and CEO of the Burlington Chamber. Both the local Chambers offer monthly educational sessions, such as social media best practices, key steps to starting a small business, networking 101, and so on.
On a larger scale, the Chambers of Commerce also play a vital role in advocating for the interests of their members on a local, provincial, and federal level, giving businesses a voice in the community and beyond. Both the Oakville and Burlington Chambers are part of the Ontario Chamber network, which has a direct line to Queen’s Park. They advocate for everything from business tax rates to summer student programs, and are often the unsung heroes of the business community. The trickle-down effect of these efforts is a vibrant business community, and in case this is your first time reading Look Local, that’s something we care about passionately! Without local businesses, in particular the small businesses that are independently owned and operated, our communities would not be the wonderful places to live that they are today.
Ready to learn more about your local Chamber of Commerce? The best way to get started is to attend a networking event, or an open house. Find out more at oakvillechamber.com or burlingtonchamber.com and see you at the next event!
In an era when so much of our entertainment is delivered digitally, there is something incredibly refreshing and wholesome about live theatre and live musical performances.Fortunately for us, there is a thriving network of locally owned and volunteer run community theatre groups in our area.It’s easy to get involved and volunteers are always needed.And it’s not just the actors and musicians you see on stage – live theatre requires directors, set and stage construction and design, marketing and “front of house” management, and so much more.
What are the benefits of getting involved?Obviously if you love to act, sing, dance and perform, then participating will provide a creative outlet and a chance for you to express yourself in a supportive environment.Live theatre may also help you build self-confidence and self-esteem, and enable you to perfect new skills that will help in all aspects of your life.You are likely to make new friends with similar interests, and feel good about being involved in community life.Most of all, it is FUN, fulfilling and enriching.
If you are interested in finding out more, here are a few local theatre groups to consider.
The KooGle Theatre Company was established in 2007 by founders Leslie and Christopher Gray, who had been performing professionally across Ontario for years.When they married and started a family, they chose to start their own theatre company in Burlington, and have brought many high-quality productions to the stage since that time.They have also collaborated with many local artists and musicians from the thriving Burlington artistic community.
In 2017, KooGle established a performing arts training program to pass on their experience and passion for theatre and musical theatre. They now have a brand-new performing arts space for classes and rehearsals on Headon Road in Burlington.
Drury Lane is celebrating its 49th season as Burlington’s premiere musical theatre company, and they are proud of their heritage of musical storytelling and fun entertainment.All of their shows are staged at The Loft, located in Central Park in the heart of Burlington’s vibrant downtown.Each year they produce three ambitious musical productions as well as a special pantomime just in time for Christmas.
For the 2023-24 season, they will be presenting the classic family musical The Sound of Music, their always popular and wild variety show Music Hall, and finally a new Broadway musical called First Date. You can buy tickets online and season tickets are also available.
Since 1973 (that’s 50 years!), Village Theatre Waterdown has provided a creative outlet for hundreds of local volunteer actors, directors and designers to express their ideas and share their passion for the performing arts.All shows take place in the downtown core of Waterdown at the historic Waterdown Memorial Hall, which in 2022 celebrated 100 years as a community meeting place. They pride themselves on producing challenging and entertaining dramas, comedies, thrillers, and mysteries for lovers of live theatre.
Upcoming performances include the comedy Girl in the Goldfish Bowl this spring, murder mystery The Art of Murder in the fall, and Bloom in the spring of 2024.
Founded in 1962, The Oakville Players is a group dedicated to fostering the growth and development of community theatre in Oakville and the surrounding area, producing two main stage shows annually at The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. They also produce One Act training events, live radio plays, and participate in various community events.
Their last production The Top 10 Comeback Festival was staged in June 2022.Check out their website for upcoming plans and performances.
Established in 1976, The Burloak Theatre Group is one of the oldest community theatre groups in Oakville.They produce four shows annually and present them at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. The production of their annual holiday pantomime appeals to multi-generational families and people of all backgrounds, and has become a tradition for many in our community.
Shows produced in the 2022-23 season included The Last of the Red Hot Lovers in the fall, An Ideal Husband in January, and Cabaret in April.Check out their website to find out more about what’s planned for the 2023-24 season!
Summer camp registration creeps up earlier every year. Sometimes the hottest camps are at capacity before the snow has even left the ground. And while planning summer activities months in advance can feel daunting, it can be especially challenging if your child doesn’t enjoy traditional camps.
If your child isn’t interested in making friendship bracelets at art camp or kicking a ball in sports camp, there’s no need to worry! Today, dozens of innovative programs engage children in play and learning. From coding to circus performing, cooking, and even farming, you’re sure to find something for your hard-to-please summer camper in this list.
Imagine a summer camp where your child learns important life skills and brings home a delicious meal. COOKSMART offers a unique opportunity for children as young as five to get into the kitchen as a chef. Offering six camps for ages 5-12, your little one will learn cooking and baking basics while making their snacks and lunch for the day (bonus, no packed lunch required)! Plus, hands-on art, science, and Indigenous activities, outdoor adventures, drama, and more. Your camper will end the session with a report card, so you can help them use their skills in your very own kitchen.
Who says learning takes a break in the summer? Code Ninjas summer camps teach kids to code while building their own video games. Kids gain problem-solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills through their programs. But don’t worry; they’ll have so much fun that they won’t even realize they’re exercising the left side of their brain.
For an epic, adventurous, thrilling, and different summer sport, try one of the many camps through Evolve. With skateboard, scooter, and BMX camps for ages 6-14, your child will hit the pavement while learning important life skills like goal setting, perseverance, and teamwork. Skateboarding through summer – can you think of anything more fabulous?
Who doesn’t enjoy a good Nerf(™) battle? Especially when it’s not in your living room. Zorbit sports is an indoor Nerf(™) battle facility with a unique offering of camps. Children ages 5 to 12 can take on their peers in Zorb, Archery, Nerf, and Dodge Ball. Morning and afternoon camp sessions are available.
A’hoy matey! Spend the summer on board a Tall Ship with Brigs. Kids ages 13+ become active crew members as they live, eat, and sleep onboard the boat. Learn the fundamentals of sailing a Tall Ship while exploring ports and anchoring throughout the Great Lakes. Plus, enjoy swimming, singing, campfires, and so much more!
Aspiring photographers ages 7 to 13 have an incredible opportunity to explore nature through the lens this summer. Campers are encouraged to be visual artists, see the beauty in the details of nature, and learn how to capture it with their cameras while on guided walks and other nature activities.
This summer, children ages 6+ can learn to become circus performers with Zacada. From aerial hoops to trapeze, acrobatics, and tumble track to juggling and hula hoops, kids will develop skills in body awareness, flexibility, and strength, all while having fun.
Andrews Scenic Acres Farm Camp
9365 10 Side Road, Milton
Learn to live the life of a farmer! Kids will experience life on a real working farm during this unique summer camp. In addition to learning how to grow fruits and vegetables, little ones will learn the ins and outs of farm operations, all while exploring Andrew’s 165 acres of land.
