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Step Into Wonderland: Alice In Bloomland Comes To The Royal Botanical Gardens

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The Royal Botanical Gardens is pure magic for nature lovers. It’s lush gardens, extensive trail systems, and programs that foster people’s love of the outdoors all strengthen our connection with the natural world. Every year, the RBG presents a winter feature that families look forward to (who can ever forget Frogs! and Nature’s Superheroes?).

This year, get ready for something truly unique and extraordinary: Alice in Bloomland! With eye-popping floral artistry, this playful, dreamy exhibit will transport you to the pages of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. Whether you’re an artist, a gardener, or a fan of Alice’s adventures, Alice in Bloomland is sure to dazzle your senses and brighten your season.

From February 1 to March 30, 2025, this family-friendly indoor exhibit invites you to tumble down the rabbit hole into a whimsical wonderland that brings the iconic tale to life. Alice in Wonderland was first published in 1865 and has become one of the world’s most beloved and recognized works of children’s literature. The fantastical realm created by Lewis is full of clever and peculiar characters such as the Mad Hatter and Cheshire Cat. It’s a place where animals talk and nature comes alive – even the flowers have personalities!

At Alice in Bloomland, visitors will have the opportunity to walk through towering life-sized floral installations with more than 25,000 real blooms, including stunning tropical orchids, bromeliads, tillandsia and other exotic plants. Textile-based artworks crafted by local and international artists add an extra layer of creativity, bringing florals and art together to honour the children’s classic in enchanting ways.

This exhibit also showcases local talent and businesses. The installations are created by Toronto-based prop makers, while the vibrant orchids and tropical plants are sourced from a Niagara- based grower.

The kid in all of us is sure to enjoy this colourful and soul-feeding experience. Don’t miss the chance to brighten your winter season with a topsy-turvy journey through Wonderland!

With your Alice in Bloomland ticket, you can also enjoy same-day access to other RBG attractions, including the Mediterranean Garden and Imagination Playground. Thursdays through Sundays, guests can also visit Hendrie Park and The Rock Garden.

Mediterranean Garden

Who else is craving a Mediterranean escape in the middle of Canadian winter? This beautiful greenhouse features plants from the world’s five Mediterranean climate zones. Beat the winter chill and let the lush greenery and warm vibes whisk you away to sunnier days.

Imagination Playground


Kids of all ages can unleash their creativity with the big blue blocks! These giant, uniquely shaped foam blocks are perfect for building and stacking. Located in the atrium, this self-guided playground promises hands-on fun.

The Rock Garden

While this garden is stunning to visit in the spring and summer, even in the chill of winter the experience is magical. From towering pines to charming dwarf spruce, it’s a showcase of evergreen beauty. Don’t forget to breathe deeply—the fresh earthy scent is pure winter bliss.

Hendrie Park

Even in winter, Hendrie Park offers a scenic escape to nature. Stroll through the snow-dusted pathways and admire the heritage trees, shrubs and sculptures.

Exhibit Dates and Hours

  • This time-ticketed exhibit requires pre-registration, so secure your spot early!
  • February 1 – March 30, 2025 Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm (final entry 4 pm)
  • Special extended hours on Family Day (February 17) and during March Break (March 8–16), opening at 9 am

COST

  • Adult Tickets start at $19.50 (+ HST & $2 service fee)
  • Senior, Student, Child and RBG Member pricing available
  • Tickets and more information are available at rbg.ca/alice.

By Lisa Evans

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Snow Guide 2025

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ICE SKATING AND CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING CLOSE TO HOME

Face it and embrace it” is how true Canadians survive winter. Although southern Ontario has become synonymous with unpredictable weather in recent years, winter has decided to settle in after all. For all diehard fans of the white stuff, we are pleased to present Look Local’s recommended snow and ice destinations.

Cross-Country Ski Trails

Gliding through nature on skis is a great workout that warms the body and soul. Terra Cotta Conservation Area in Halton Hills has over 6 kilometres of groomed trails. Those at Crawford Lake in Milton range from easy to moderate. Mountsberg’s ungroomed Pioneer Creek Trail is more challenging, but firepits are available — and if you go during the Maple Syrup Festival you can refuel with pancakes slathered in sweetness.

Other local favourites are Hilton Falls, with scenic trails ranging from moderate to difficult, and Bronte Provincial Park’s 10 kilometres of ungroomed trails (the park also boasts a truly epic toboggan hill, with panoramic views of the area).

Outdoor Skating Rinks

If the sound of blades scraping on ice makes your heart sing, get your skates sharpened and head outside. The Town of Oakville just opened a brand new outdoor rink in Wallace Park in Old Oakville, featuring artificially frozen ice to keep you skating amid weather fluctuations. The rink at the historic Dundas Driving Park is staffed (and zambonied) between 10 am and 6 pm daily.

Want more lights and hustle and bustle? Enjoy lakeside magic at Downtown Burlington’s Rotary Pond in Spencer Smith Park, where skates are available to rent. Waterdown Memorial Park and Trafalgar Park Recreation Centre are two other local favourites offering manicured ice, as well as the convenience of washroom facilities.

When natural, shallow wetlands freeze over, Bronte Creek (in Bronte, near Lakeshore) is a picturesque and old-timey destination for skiers, snowshoers and skaters. Heading toward Hamilton, Princess Point and Carroll’s Bay Marsh (both part of the Royal Botanical Gardens) are particularly beautiful at sunset — and if you’re lucky, conditions might be just right for ice that’s smooth as glass.

LOCAL LINKS
burlington.ca/en/recreation/skating
conservationhalton.ca/activities/cross-country-skiing
cvc.ca/explore-activities/cross-country-skiing
ontarioskitrails.com/item/bronte-creek
oakville.ca/parks-recreation-culture

By Michelle Morra

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Easter Carrot Cake

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What can be better for Easter than a moist and tasty Carrot Cake made from scratch with your kids? Simply mix freshly grated carrots, a hint of spice and a few more basic ingredients. Top the cake with velvety cream cheese frosting, colourful Easter decorations and voilà! Let’s bake up memories with this irresistible Easter Carrot Cake!

Easter Carrot Cake Recipe

For this recipe you’ll need two 9” pans, or you can make layers one by one

FOR THE CAKE LAYERS

  • 270 grams all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 280 ml vegetable oil
  • 200 grams granulated sugar
  • 200 grams brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 300-350 grams grated carrots (2-3 medium carrots)
  • 50 grams chopped walnuts or any other nuts (optional)
  • 60 grams sultan raisins

FOR CREAMY FROSTING

  • 250 grams Philadelphia cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 140 grams icing sugar
  • 80 ml heavy whipping cream (35%)

INSTRUCTIONS

CAKE LAYERS

  1. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Preheat oven to 350F.
  2. Mix all dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon) in a medium bowl.
  3. In a larger bowl whisk together oil, vanilla and eggs till fully combined. Add sugars and mix well.
  4. Add dry ingredients to the egg mixture in 3 parts and mix well with a rubber spatula until all the lumps disappear. Stir in the carrots, raisins and nuts.
  5. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Bake for about 40-45 min until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  6. Cool cakes completely before finishing it with the frosting.

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

  1. While cake layers are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with a handheld mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the powdered sugar and beat in until the mixture becomes fluffy.
  3. Pour in cream and beat for another minute.
  4. Place the frosting in the fridge until ready to use.

FINISHING THE CAKE

  1. When the cake layers are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate and cover with slightly less than half of the frosting. Place another cake layer on top and cover with the remaining frosting. Decorate with chopped nuts, Easter eggs, or other decorations you have. Enjoy with your family!

 

Recipe Provided By

French Lunch
349 Kerr St, Oakville
(647) 625-6257
frenchlunch.ca

 

 

 

 

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Oven Roasted Chicken Supreme

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Basil Brined Roasted Chicken Supreme

INGREDIENTS

  • ¼ 4 large chicken breasts
  • ¼ 2 tbsp salt
  • ¼ 2 tbsp sugar
  • ¼ 1 bay leaf
  • ¼ 1 clove garlic, smashed
  • ¼ 1 litre cold water
  • ¼ 1 cup boiling water
  • ¼ 4 oz fresh basil stems
  • ¼ Salt and pepper

METHOD

Combine boiling water, bay leaf, salt, sugar, basil stems and garlic and whisk until the salt has dissolved.

Pour the cold water mixture into the brine mixture and whisk, then place over top of the chicken breasts.

Allow chicken to brine for 1 hour and then drain as much water off as you can. Pat the chicken dry.

Season with salt and pepper and pan sear in oil in an oven proof pan until the skin is golden brown.

Place the pan in the oven and roast at 350 degrees until the chicken is cooked through. Allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Paradiso serve this dish with a honey-dijon carrot puree, garlic seared green beans, and a kalamata olive tapenade. At home, any mixture of fresh vegetables will pair nicely.

Caramelized Onion Bread Pudding

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 cups focaccia bread, cubed
  •  3 eggs
  • 8 oz Spanish onion, sliced
  • 1-1/2 cups 35% cream
  • 1/4 cup roasted garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  •  1 tbsp vegetable oil
  •  Salt and pepper

METHOD

Caramelize onions in butter and oil on medium heat until golden brown.

Add the roasted garlic and mash with a spoon until garlic cloves have broken down.Add the cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine the eggs, parmesan and basil in a bowl and slowly add in the cream mixture. Then add the bread and allow it to soak up mixture for 15 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper and place the bread in a parchment lined 2 inch deep baking pan and cover tightly with foil.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing.

Slice into portions and pan sear in butter until golden brown.

RECIPE COURTESY OF

Paradiso
2041 Pine Street, Burlington
(905) 639-1176
125 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
(905) 338-1594
paradisorestaurant.com

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Sausage and Apricot Stuffing

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INGREDIENTS

  • 1 lb Florence Meats sausage meat 
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 yellow onions, finely chopped 
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 8 oz dried country style bread or packaged stuffing mix
  • 2 cups dried chopped apricots 
  • Handful of fresh flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg 
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

METHOD 

  1. In a large frying pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and then cook the sausage meat and onions, stirred frequently to break up the clumps of sausage meat. When lightly browned and cooked through, add the celery, fresh herbs and spices. 
  2. As soon as the celery is heated through, add the dried apricots and the bread mix. Salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything together thoroughly.
  3. If you prefer a moist stuffing, you can add a cup of chicken or turkey broth. 
  4. You can either cook this in your turkey, or transfer it to an oven proof dish and cover the dish with aluminum foil. If cooking separately, bake in the oven for at least an hour at 350 F. 
  5. If you cooked the stuffing in the turkey, use a large spoon to transfer it to a warm serving dish before serving.

RECIPE PROVIDED BY

Florence Meats
2136 SPEERS ROAD, OAKVILLE
905.842.2066
FLORENCEMEATS.COM

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Gnocchi Tartufo

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For the gnocchi:

INGREDIENTS


• 4 lbs of Russet potatoes
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 cups (or 240g) of flour, sifted
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg, salt

METHOD

1. Poke holes in the potatoes and place them on a baking tray in a 350 F oven, and allow them to cook until soft (approx. 1.5 hours).

2. Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool, then remove the skins and put them through a ricer. You should end up with approx. 2 lbs of potatoes, the correct ratio for this recipe. Every lb of cooked and riced potato requires 1 cup of flour and 1 egg yolk.

3. Add the eggs and the flour to the potato while using a scraper to “chop” in the ingredients. Incorporate all the ingredients and then make a ball. Do not knead the mixture for too long. Let rest for 15-20 minutes.

4. Cut the gnocchi into long strands and with flat palms and medium pressure, roll into long equally shaped ropes to a size you prefer (3/4” to 1” recommended). The motion should look like you are rolling in a half circle outwards and back again. When they are finished, blanch the gnocchi in salted water and allow to cool. Portion to whatever size you would like. This recipe should yield about 3 lbs or 6 to 9 portions.

For the sauce:

INGREDIENTS
• 2 lbs mushrooms
• 2 shallots, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp cold butter
• 2 – 3 oz dry white wine
• 500 ml 35% cream
• Optional: herbs, truffle oil, Parmesan cheese

METHOD

1. Sautee the mushrooms in butter and season to taste. Add the shallots and garlic half way into the cooking, making sure you do not burn them.

2. Add the white wine to deglaze, and finally the cream.

3. Toss the sauce into the gnocchi and and serve immediately. Garnish with Parmesan if desired.

Recipe Courtesy Of:
Culaccino Bar & Kitchen
527 Brant St,
Burlington
(905) 635-4626
culaccino.ca

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Craftadian Handmade Market

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This holiday season shop local with a handmade flair! On Saturday, December 7 and Sunday December 8, join the market and music by DJ Julie Fazooli at the Craftadian Handmade Market at McMaster Innovation Park. The Craftadian holiday shopping experience is a unique opportunity to buy directly from 150+ local makers over two days, with different makers each day.

About

Founded in 2011, Craftadian showcases local handmade products designed and made by Canadian artists, artisans, designers, and makers. 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 Market

Find everything from art to apothecary goods, artisan jewellery and handcrafted handbags, candles and prints, unique jewelry and handknit goods, and so much more. There are so many great things to choose from at this holiday market that you’ll likely walk away with your holiday gift shopping all finished!

“Supporting small businesses is not just a choice; it’s a responsibility towards our community. When we buy from a local maker, we are bringing home a unique piece of art and also contributing towards the growth of our community. So let’s empower and uplift our local makers because every purchase we make has the power to create a lasting impact,” emphasizes Jacqueline Hunter, the show director of Craftadian. “Coming together to support local businesses has never been more crucial for our collective growth and progress.”

Event Details

What: Craftadian Hamilton Holiday Market

Where: McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Hamilton, L8P 0A1

When: Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8, 10 am – 4 pm

Cost: $6 weekend pass or $5 online in advance 

  •           Under 16 years of age free
  •           Free Parking
  •           Accessible venue
For more information head to craftadian.ca/hamilton and stay connected by following them on Instagram and Facebook!

Jacqueline Hunter
905-330-2056

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A Brighter Morning: Let’s give the victims of domestic abuse the gift of hope

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On a bustling street that’s all aglow with coloured lights, you watch passersby from inside a cozy café. Steam from your peppermint latte warms your face. In this festive ambiance, you have no way of knowing that the woman in the suede coat, who just walked by, is in crisis.

Domestic violence happens everywhere, even in the most idyllic communities. It affects people from all walks of life. Victims aren’t limited to any particular ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or gender, though the numbers are largely skewed toward women. In fact, on June 14, 2023 the Halton Region boldly declared that intimate partner violence and violence against women are an epidemic in Halton.

Behind Closed Doors

According to Laurie Hepburn, Executive Director of Halton Women’s Place, domestic violence is an urgent issue that often goes unnoticed. The organization provides a safe haven, information and education to support a future without abuse for women and their children.

“Last year, we saw 180 individuals through our shelter services alone, and hundreds more through our community outreach programs,” Hepburn says. “Halton Regional Police respond to an average of 10 domestic violence calls daily, and this year, 52 women in Ontario have lost their lives due to intimate partner violence.”

These numbers highlight the pressing need for safe spaces where people feel seen, supported, and heard. And as the above statistics prove, victims’ lives are often in very real danger.

Sadly, the perpetrator is often someone very close to the victim. The Government of Canada reports that intimate partner violence comes in many forms, many of which are prohibited under the Criminal Code of Canada. The abuse happens as physical harm, criminal harassment (stalking), or sexual violence (including sexual acts without consent, degrading language, pressure to watch or participate in the making of pornography, and threats of repercussions for refusing sexual activity). Intimate partner violence can also be emotional, financial, spiritual, or technology-facilitated
(cyber-violence, cyber-stalking, as well as scaring, threatening or humiliating someone online).

Bruised, not broken

Despite the emotional and physical harm caused by domestic violence, there is a silver lining, and that is the amazing capacity for the human brain and body to heal. Amid much sadness, people in Hepburn’s line of work witness human resiliency time and time again.

“One individual come to us after years of feeling isolated and invisible, and with time and support she regained her independence and now volunteers to support others on a similar journey.” 

“The stories of those we serve are powerful,” Hepburn says. “One individual came to us after years of feeling isolated and invisible, and with time and support, she regained her independence and now volunteers to support others on a similar journey. Another client and her children arrived unsure of their next steps but left with stable housing and renewed hope.”

It is through safe spaces like Halton Women’s Place that these transformations happen.

How to Help

You can support Halton Women’s Place by donating, volunteering, or simply raising awareness. This season’s Holiday Hamper Program provides essential items and gifts to families in the care of Halton Women’s Place and those transitioning to independence.

“It’s a meaningful way to bring comfort during the holidays, ensuring everyone feels valued,” Hepburn says. Following the holiday season, Halton Women’s Place will host its annual gala in February (see below).

Domestic abuse affects everyone, which is why every community member has a role in making people feel supported and valued. The more we build a supportive environment, the stronger our community becomes.“Every contribution helps us continue to create safe spaces for those who need it,” Hepburn says. “Creating safe spaces isn’t just about physical shelter, it’s about showing people they’re not alone.”

Crystal Ball Gala

An elegant night of philanthropy, this annual fundraising gala helps to advance the mission of Halton Women’s Place of providing safe shelter, support, and advocacy.

February 22, 2025 | Doors Open at 5:30PM
Oakville Conference Centre

Details and tickets: haltonwomensplace.com/gala

3 Ways to Help Local Women and Children

  1.  Grant a Shelter Wish: Your donation helps fund essential items like cozy bedding, winter boots, or baby care bundles, giving women and children safety and comfort when they need it most. Every wish granted is a step toward a fresh start.
  2. Holiday Hamper Gift Drive: By donating gift cards, you give women the power to choose exactly what their families need—whether it’s groceries, gifts, or something that brings a little joy and normalcy back into their lives. To participate, you will need to fill out an online form to be matched with a family. This program fills up quickly, so register early to help make the holidays brighter for a family in need.
  3. Start Monthly Giving: The need for support doesn’t stop after the holidays. Monthly donors ensure that women and children have ongoing access to safe shelter, basic needs, and vital resources all year long.

By Michelle Morra

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The Sweetest Thing’s Gingerbread Cookies

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INGREDIENTS

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2¼ cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

METHOD

  1.  In a stand mixer, cream the butter and brown sugar. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla, and mix again.
  2.  In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, salt, and cloves. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing as you go. 
  3. Shape the dough into a ball, divide it in half, and flatten each half into a 1-inch disk. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 2 hours.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place on prepared sheets, re-rolling scraps as needed.
  6. Bake one sheet at a time for 7–9 minutes, until edges are set but centers are still soft. For softer cookies, remove while slightly underdone (about 8 minutes for 3-inch cookies). You may need to adjust time based on your oven and cookie size.
Recipe provided by:

The Sweetest Thing
282 Kerr Street, Oakville
905-582-0862
thesweetestthing.com

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Discover The Magic Of The Holidays In Oakville

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Discover the Magic of the Holidays in Oakville: Festive Events, Lights and Santa Await!

OAKVILLE – This holiday season, Visit Oakville invites visitors to experience the festive charm of the town. From twinkling lights and tree lighting ceremonies to boutique shopping, delicious dining, and exciting holiday events, Oakville offers a magical holiday experience for all. Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario with picturesque streets and vibrant business districts, Oakville is the perfect destination for those looking to celebrate the season in style.

“Oakville truly shines during the holidays,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director of Visit Oakville. “From our festive events to our welcoming atmosphere, there’s something special about celebrating the season here. Whether you’re enjoying our stunning waterfront, shopping at our local boutiques in our charming downtown area, or dining at one of our exceptional restaurants, we welcome visitors to come and experience the joy of the holidays in Oakville.”

Here are Oakville’s top must-see holiday events for 2024:

• Light up the Night – November 15, 5:00-9:00 p.m. – Join in for the kick-off to Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday as they light up the night. The heart of Oakville’s historic downtown will come alive with holiday cheer as the community gathers to light the town’s Christmas tree. Towne Square will also have live entertainment featuring the CW Carolling Champions The Sugar Plums.

• Oakville Santa Claus Parade – November 16, 9:00 a.m. – A highlight of the holiday season, the Oakville Santa Claus Parade brings joy to families and visitors alike. Watch as festive floats, local performers, and, of course, Santa himself parade through Oakville’s streets, spreading holiday cheer to all.

• At Home in Bronte for the Holidays – November 23, 3:00-7:00 p.m. – Bronte’s charming Market Square will sparkle as the village hosts its annual tree lighting, a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

• 30th Annual Kerr Village Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Market – November 30, starts at 2:00 p.m. – Join the festive spirit in Kerr Village for a joyful tree lighting event that brings the community together. Enjoy the Holiday Pop Up Market and the live musical entertainment that will take place. Featuring the tree lighting ceremony at 5:45 p.m.

• Holiday Lights by the Lake – December 1 – February 2025 – One of Oakville’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Holiday Lights by the Lake at Coronation Park, will illuminate the waterfront with thousands of sparkling lights. Stroll or drive through the park with family and friends and enjoy the enchanting holiday display and music, which runs throughout the festive season.

Downtown Oakville’s Holiday Cheer – Various dates.

➢ Winter Wonderland of Lights – December 1 – January 2025 – Take in the wonder of the season at the Winter Wonderland of Lights. Displays throughout Downtown from Towne Square to Centennial Square (Navy/Lakeshore).

➢ Silent Holiday Disco – November 23, 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. – Back with a beat, this Silent Disco night is all about grooving and moving under our twinkly festive tree lights to iconic Christmas Tunes in Towne Square.

➢ The Nutcracker – November 29-December 1 – Experience the magic of The Nutcracker this holiday season with the Oakville School of Classical Ballet’s elaborate production at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts.

➢ Free Hot Cocoa & Fire Pits – November 30, December 7, 14, 2:00-6:00 p.m. – Stop by Downtown Oakville’s vintage airstream in Towne Square to pick up a free hot cocoa and warm up by the fire pits.

➢ Visit with Santa in Centennial Square – December 7,8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 2:00-6:00 p.m.
– Meet Santa in his Cozy Cottage in Centennial Square (Navy/Lakeshore). From 2:00-3:00 p.m., Santa will walk the streets of Downtown Oakville before settling in at his cottage for booked appointments.

Holiday festivities at the Oakville Museum – Various dates. The Oakville Museum is getting into the holiday spirit with many events including:

➢ Visit with Santa – November 23 – Don’t miss Santa’s special visit! Start your adventure at Oakville’s First Post Office, where you can write a letter to Santa. Then, take a tour of the Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for Christmases past. Create magic in the Coach House before meeting Santa in his cozy sitting room.

➢ Winter Craft & Tour – November 29, 30, December 27, January 3 – Take part in the Winter Craft & Tour where you and your child can create a special craft and enjoy a guided tour of the museum.

➢ Christmas Tour & Treat – December 7 – Enjoy the historic Erchless Estate beautifully decorated for an 1800s Christmas, ending with a festive treat and hot beverage.

Holiday markets – Be sure to check out the various holiday markets and bazaars happening throughout the season for unique gifts, festive treats and local treasures including:

➢ Holiday Market at Film.ca Cinemas – November 16, 10:00-5:00 p.m. – Get ready to shop unique gifts, artisanal goods, and other holiday goodies.

➢ The Bronte Historical Society’s Christmas Show – November 16 – Showcasing a beautiful collection of arts and crafts perfect for holiday gifting and festive cheer.

➢ The Oakville Art Society’s Christmas Art Market – November 23-24, 11:00-4:00 p.m.
– Find unique artisanal gifts such as cards, jewellery, baked goods, art, books, fashion and more!

➢ Bronte’s Annual Handmade Market – December 1, 10:00-4:00 p.m. – Small intimate market with a variety of vendors.

In addition to these festive events, Oakville’s boutique shopping and amazing dining experiences make it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can find unique gifts, explore one-of-a-kind shops, and enjoy local cuisine that caters to every palate. With its charming downtown areas and stunning waterfront views, Oakville is the perfect place to enjoy the magic of the holiday season.

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 the holidays!

For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website:
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

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