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In Community

Lighting our Way: Holiday Sights on our Local Streets

December 4, 2020 No Comments

There’s nothing I love more than grabbing a hot chocolate and venturing out to see the lights. From the comfort of your car – seat warmer on, warm drink in hand – there are endless sights to see among our streets.

Families across Oakville and Burlington are spreading holiday cheer and putting up their infamous light displays to add some festive celebrations in an otherwise strange year.

Gatherings may be limited this holiday season, but it doesn’t mean we have to stop the celebration of the season – cheer is here folks.

Put on your winter gear (and your mask!) and head out for a dazzling light show.

Jovanovic Family

On the corner of Pine Glen Road and Stone Glen Crescent | Oakville

There’s nothing that can ruin the Jovanovic family’s Christmas spirit, not even a brazen attack that left their entire inflatable Christmas display slashed in 2017. Thanks to help from their neighbours, the family was able to relaunch their annual display that same year. Now, three years later, the family is more dedicated than ever, displaying inflatable Christmas décor. Easily spotted while driving down Pine Glen Road, the holiday display fills the home’s lawn with an inflatable Santa, reindeer, elves, and much more.

Jackson Family Lights

113 McCraney Street West | Oakville

Located in Oakville, the Jackson family not only fills their neighbourhood with holiday joy, but the funds raised during their seasonal light show are donated to the Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK) and Kelly Shires Foundation. After the 2019 display, the Jackson family donated $1,500 to both organizations. The holiday display, which is referred to as Santa’s Castle, encompasses the entire Jackson family home and includes inflatables on the lawn, and flashing lights on the roof. Visit this link to support their fundraising initiative and keep updated with their festive traditions by following them on Facebook: jacksonfamilylights

Rusty Griswold’s Christmas Light Display

2176 Delvin Drive | Burlington

Bigger and better this year, Rusty Griswold’s Christmas Light Display in Burlington has extra displays, bringing the grand total of bulbs in the display to 7,075. This year’s display will also feature seven new lollipops with twinkling lights, some extra candy canes, and two new songs. The lights and music are tested, programmed, and installed by Rusty himself, and the new lollipops were built by his own two hands. While enjoying the festive display, visitors can also enjoy some holiday music; new to the display this year is Frosty the Snowman and Snoopy vs. The Red Baron.
rustygriswold.ca

Musson’s Famous Christmas Display

3360 Spruce Avenue | Burlington

Arguably one of the best-known Christmas light displays in Halton, the Musson family has been displaying lights for more than 30 years. This passion project was started by Doug Musson when the family lived in Calgary, and they brought it with them to their new home in Burlington in 1976. In 2017, Doug tragically passed away, however, the family continued the light display year after year in his honour. Traditionally, the display guides visitors through the front yard into the back yard, both of which are filled with lights and inflatables. This year, the family will be continuing the tradition despite the uncertainty looming amidst the pandemic with some slight changes to make room for social distancing, because after all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing (or decorating) loud for all to hear.
christmasdisplay.ca

Downtown Oakville & Downtown Burlington

And it’s not just these homeowners that put on a great show. Both Downtown Oakville and Burlington Downtown will be bringing back favourite decorations this year with the addition of a few new attractions.

A must see this holiday season starting November 28th is Downtown Oakville’s spectacular 30 ft Instagram worthy ribbon tree of lights located in Towne Square. The tree-lighting will be virtual this year, but there is plenty of time to visit throughout the holidays. Be sure to visit and take a photo with family and friends. You can also enjoy the extraordinary lighting installations in Centennial Square and throughout the Downtown core.

Celebrating 25 years of magic, the Burlington Lakeside Festival of Lights will be returning to Downtown Burlington. Sixty magical lighting displays will be set up at Spencer Smith Park from November 27th, 2020 to January 8th, 2021. The lights will turn on at 4 p.m. every day and run until midnight – with exceptions on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Orthodox Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, where the lights will be lit all day and night. This outdoor event is a perfect way to experience the holidays in Burlington and also grab some fresh air.

In addition to the Festival of Lights, Downtown Burlington has invested in a unique plug n’ play technology that transforms traditional lighting displays into interactive experiences. The display is powered by a real-time sound-to-light mapping system called Aurora. Located next to Scrivener’s along the Elgin Promenade, visitors can interact with the lighting in real-time by singing, clapping, or yelling. There will also a canopy of lights in other areas of the promenade.

In Features

Decorating Your Home For The Holidays

December 2, 2020 No Comments

Is there anything more cheerful than holiday décor? Whether your style is minimalist chic, or you prefer to fully deck the halls, we invite you to transform your home and embrace the spirit of the season with our holiday decorating tips.

Merry & Bright

Festive décor always fills the house with extra merriment, but we want our homes to feel cozy the entire winter season. Thankfully, Christmas décor can easily carry through the season. Adding texture is a simple way to do that. Change out your lightweight summer throws for chunky, cozy knit blankets draped on the sofa to add warmth. Embrace flannel and knit accent pillows in plaids, rich reds, greens, and golds to bring subtle pops of colour into a room.

One of the most impactful ways to make your home welcoming and warm all season long is with lighting. “Everybody loves lights!” laughs Rose Luxton of Lakeside Livin’ in Bronte. “I generally love to decorate where we spend the most time.” She notes that the fireplace is a natural gathering place for family and friends, and swathing the mantle with LED or twinkle lights will draw people in. Since not everyone has a fireplace, she suggests using candles to make the home smell wonderful and also give soft light on those dark, chilly days. “I burn crackling wood wick candles during the cold winter months. Scents like Frasier Fir help me get into the holiday spirit!”

The Holly & The Ivy

Adorning your home with greenery adds an organic element to yuletide design. With temperatures dropping, we are less keen to venture outdoors, so consider bringing some greenery indoors or using faux foliage to create a holiday feel. Whether you prefer bright or simple rustic decoration, nothing feels quite as festive as the sight and woodsy smell of natural greenery in your home. Bouquets of twiggy branches, pine boughs, holly, and sprigs of mistletoe add to any vignette and are easily incorporated into your personal interior design. Faux greenery arrangements can give much the same effect and there are many realistic options available.

Najia Shaikh, from The Artisanville in Burlington, advises adding greenery as soon as you enter the house. A seasonal wreath to your front door, a garland on the stair railing, or a small Christmas tree in the entryway is inviting and helps to bring the outdoors, indoors. “These tiny additions are not expensive or permanent but can add so much to your Christmas décor,” she notes.

For Auld Lang Syne

Family traditions are important, especially during the holidays. There is something about honoring those memories that gives Christmas the perfect sentimental touch. “Adding vintage pieces to your décor can give your home a balance of old and new all year round,” says Lorna Parcher, owner of Graham & Brooks in Dundas. “Digging into the box for that tree topper, vintage tree skirt, or Christmas stocking just seems right year after year.” If you don’t have a collection to draw from, she suggests picking up vintage pieces that remind you of Christmases past, or with the intention of starting a new tradition.

Switching up your wall art is an almost effortless way to blend fresh with nostalgic. Najia notes that simple winter prints, old family photos, or framed Christmas carols are neutral enough to incorporate into any design style. If you’d like to display kids’ artwork or special family recipe cards, consider upgrading them with a modern frame.

Setting the table is another area for an elegant personal touch. Grandma’s wedding china may not suit your current taste but using her serving plates or creating a hot chocolate station with her tea service are an elegant nod to Christmases past. Similarly, displaying vintage brass candlesticks on the table add height and warmth while embracing traditional roots and memories.

LOCAL LINKS

The Artisanville, Burlington

Lakeside Livin’ Home Décor, Bronte

Graham & Brooks, Dundas

Nicetys, Oakville

Pure Boutique, Burlington

Rustic Daisy’s, Waterdown

Centro Garden, Burlington

Fairhome, Burlington

Swiss Interiors, Oakville

Bogart Home, Oakville

In Arts & Events

Film.ca wins Best Family Entertainment ‘Talk of the Town’ award

December 1, 2020 No Comments

Note: Each business listed below has made changes and are taking precautions to ensure customer and employee safety during this time. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm up-to-date products, offers, hours and safety procedures.

Looking for safe ways to support local and have fun with your household? Visit our Best Family Entertainment Talk of the Town Award-winner, Film.ca Cinemas!

This community theatre has been a mainstay of Kerr Village since 2005, bringing big box office hits to Oakville for affordable prices. This retro theatre also screens many Canadian and independent films, highlighting up-and-coming filmmakers from all backgrounds.

Looking for a more private experience? Rent out a screen and get the theatre all to yourselves! It’s a safe and fun way to enjoy new films and old favourites on the big screen with your entire household.

Play in the arcade, grab a bite at Zuzu’s Pizza or send the kids to filmmaking bootcamp at this beloved Oakville theatre.

Try for the turkey at Best Family Entertainment runner-up, Hopedale Bowl!

This family-run 5-pin bowling alley is a great destination for families of all ages, as bumpers and coaching tips are always available with help from the friendly staff. Book a time on the weekend to enjoy their glow-in-the-dark sessions and dance along with some of your favourite party tunes from the past and present.

Looking to challenge your household? Take on the escape rooms at Best Family Entertainment second runner-up, Narrow Escape!

You’ll need to work together at this local escape room hub to solve puzzles and riddles that will eventually lead your entire family to the exit. Narrow Escape hosts rooms for all levels of difficulty, including Claustrophobia (moderate), Baker Street Mystery (hard) and Hacked (beginner). This is a great safe way to get the entire family out of the house and working together.

Thank you so much to everyone who voted! We will be announcing our next category on November 7, 2020 over Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

2020 Talk of the Town Awards: Best Family Entertainment

Film.ca Cinemas
Hopedale Bowl
Narrow Escape
Aerosports Trampoline Park
iFLY Toronto

In Arts & Events

Downtown Oakville Partners with TELUS Small Business and DMX Marketing to Offer Local Giveaway this Holiday Season

November 30, 2020 No Comments

It’s time to support our local business, it’s time to shop local!

This year has been especially tough on local businesses in Oakville Downtown. We have faced unprecedented times, which none of us in the community could have predicted. The impact on our local businesses has been huge. Combined with the redevelopment of Lakeshore Road, it has been an extremely tough 2020 for businesses in Oakville.

But now is the time for small businesses to recover, for all of us to shop local. To help with getting local stores back on their feet, and help promote them, Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Area (BIA) has launched their Hometown Holiday Campaign to support local and has teamed up with TELUS Small Business Solutions and DMX Marketing, who are sponsoring the promotion to spread the word and reach all residents of Oakville. The campaign is all about getting you connected with the local stores you love and help get them up and thriving once again.

For the campaign, a virtual gift guide to Downtown Oakville’s businesses has been created, to help you find exactly what you are looking for this holiday season, whilst also helping support local businesses. And to make it even better, as part of the campaign, TELUS Small Business has supported (3) $500 gift cards to be won, that can be redeemed at your favourite downtown Oakville business of choice! For the chance to win one of these cards, head to our website, signup and view our Gift Guide! And you might be a lucky winner!

With the gift guide, you have a fantastic guide to Oakville’s local businesses, where you can find a wonderful selection of Christmas products from small businesses in Oakville, such as fantastic skincare products with Rosewater Spa or wonderful jewelry at Bluboho.

Finishing on November 20th, the renovations on Lakeshore Road have been completed, fully opening the downtown once again. After plenty of hard work, the road construction is complete and it looks simply beautiful. And with the newly laid roads, traffic can flow smoother than ever, making shopping in Oakville even easier.

With the reconstruction finished and the gift guide ready and waiting, all you need to do is get shopping! After the hardships of this year, it’s time for the community to come together and rally behind our local stores. Oakville is ready for business once again and just in time, as the Christmas season is nearly upon us. Whilst the current situation means we cannot celebrate how we normally would, we can make sure it won’t dampen our Oakville spirit! So it’s time to get out and shop local.

With the new gift guide, you can make sure that you find exactly what you are looking for. Across the downtown core, there are a variety of fantastic stores, each of which will have a special something for the holidays. Maybe your secret Santa is quite the fashion enthusiast, in which case Must Boutique has what you are looking for! If you are looking to get back on the bike this Christmas, then a trip to Racer Sportif is in order. Or maybe you are looking to buy a bouquet for that special someone in your life. If so, FIORI can help make that special moment all the more perfect.

And in such a time of cheer and festivity, you cannot go wrong with a fine place to eat and drink. In Oakville, we are in luck to have many catering to both! For those looking for something sweet, then you are in luck, with Sugar Suite Cakes and Black Forest Pastry Shop baking up some utterly delicious treats. Looking to dine in, then you have options aplenty! Seasons Restaurant, Borgo Antico-Cucina Bar, Paradiso Restaurant and Riyasat Indian Restaurant and Bar are just a few options when looking to grab a bite to eat!

Don’t want to head out? Don’t worry, as many of our restaurants, bars, cafes, bakeries and more deliver! Get the tastes you want to deliver right to your door, giving you the satisfaction of knowing you’re not only helping the local community but also getting some amazing food too!

This Christmas season, let’s go from the big box store to the small business in our community and make a real difference by supporting our families. By supporting our Oakville. It’s time for local small businesses to shine, so let’s shop local!

In Articles

It’s Still The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

November 5, 2020 No Comments

At this time of year, you would typically find our events section overflowing with news of upcoming holiday cheer. From tree lightings to Santa Claus parades, our BIAs know how to deliver on holiday favourites. Many of these events have become longstanding traditions in our families and communities. While we don’t have to remind you that this year will be different, we do want to remind you that the holidays are still a special time – and worthy of making new traditions.

Bronte Village

Bronte’s official kick-off to summer usually begins with At Home in Bronte – an annual event where 60 local organizations, artists, businesses, and families are invited to paint a Muskoka chair. These chairs are installed for public viewing and enjoyment in Bronte Village on Canada Day for the duration of the summer. This summer, the event was cancelled due to COVID-19 – but Bronte BIA is excited to announce a winter instalment of this event. This winter, visitors to Bronte Village will find dozens of professionally painted Muskoka chairs along sidewalks and the waterfront. There will be hidden icons on the chairs, designed to get families outside and to encourage them to participate in a winter scavenger hunt.

The Village has also designed new banners and plans to line the streets with lit snowflakes and decorations for the holiday season. While there won’t be a Christmas Tree or official lighting, Bronte offers exquisite views and scenery, the waterfront an obvious one.

Downtown Oakville

You’re invited to Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday festivities! Stroll safely along the brand new, extra-wide sidewalks and support your local specialty stores, services and restaurants throughout the holiday season.

The highlight of Hometown Holiday will be the spectacular 30 foot Instagram worthy ribbon tree of lights, being installed in Towne Square on November 28. Be sure to come and visit, take a photo with family and friends, and enjoy the extraordinary lighting installations in Centennial Square as well as throughout the Downtown core. Follow @oakvilledowntown (on FB or Instagram) for the details.

Don’t miss out on the best gifts of the holiday season. Subscribe to the Downtown Oakville e-newsletter to gain early access to the NEW Virtual Gift Guide here: http://explore.oakvilledowntown.com/

Downtown Burlington

Santa will not be parading in Downtown Burlington this year. The annual tree lighting and candle-lit stroll have also been cancelled. But – some wonderful things have been planned in exchange.

Celebrating 25 years of magic, the Burlington Lakeside Festival of Lights will be returning. Sixty magical lighting displays will be set up at Spencer Smith Park from November 27th, 2020 to January 8th, 2021.

The lights will turn on at 4 p.m. every day and run until midnight – with exceptions on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Orthodox Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, where the lights will be lit all day and night. This outdoor event is a perfect way to experience the holidays in Burlington and also grab some fresh air.

In addition to the Festival of Lights, Downtown Burlington has invested in a unique plug n’ play technology that transforms traditional lighting displays into interactive experiences. The display is powered by a real-time sound-to-light mapping system called Aurora. Located next to Scrivener’s along the Elgin Promenade, visitors can interact with the lighting in real-time by singing, clapping, or yelling. There will also be a canopy of lights in other areas of the promenade.

Waterdown Village

Waterdown has become a holiday hot-spot thanks to their annual evening Santa Claus parade. The parade, which typically begins at 6 p.m. lights up beautiful Downtown Waterdown with floats decked out in lights. Unfortunately, this year’s parade, along with their ‘Made for You’ market and Christmas Tree lighting have been cancelled. However, there are plans to host a virtual tree lighting via Facebook and Instagram, with special guests to be announced. Follow @waterdownbia (on FB or Instagram) for details closer to the event.

While many aspects of these events are changing week-to-week, one thing is for certain: all of the BIAs want to ensure the holidays bring magic!

Stay tuned for merchant sales. And word on the street – there’s talk of winter patios. It doesn’t get more Canadian than that, eh?

Written By: Anneliese Lawton

LOCAL LINKS

In Arts & Events

Pumpkin Pop-Up Experience in #DTOakville

October 29, 2020 No Comments

With the ever-changing COVID-19 situation, Downtown Oakville has made the difficult decision to cancel their Tiny Tots Parade, but they will still be bringing some Halloween spirit to Downtown Oakville in a way that’s safe and fun.

Join Downtown Oakville for their Pumpkin Pop-Up Experience on Saturday, October 31. Stroll the brand new, extra wide sidewalks (costumes encouraged!) to see all of the creative pumpkins that merchants will be putting on display. Enter their CONTEST by voting for your favourite pumpkin for a chance to WIN 1 of 2 $150 gift cards to a Downtown Oakville retailer of your choice.

Here’s how it works:

Take a photo of your favourite pumpkin at Downtown Oakville’s Halloween Pumpkin Pop-Up Experience and post the picture on social media using the hashtag #DTOPumpkinExperience (make sure to tag @oakvilledowntown + the merchant)
Subscribe to our e-newsletter here
Follow @oakvilledowntown on Instagram and Facebook

Contest closes Monday, November 2, 2020 at noon. Contest open to local residents only. All contest submissions must be of a participating business listed above.

*This contest is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Instagram or Facebook.

A list of participating businesses is coming soon at oakvilledowntown.com

DONATE TO OAKVILLE READY’S LET’S HAUNT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE

Be sure to stop by Towne Square between 9 am and 1 pm to drop off (contactless) a non-perishable food item for Oakville Ready’s Let’s Haunt Hunger Food Drive in support of Kerr Street Mission.

Best dressed or best dresses car will WIN a $150 gift card donated by the Downtown Oakville Business Improvement Association (us!). Click here to learn more.

In Articles

Let the Games Begin!

October 27, 2020 1 Comment

Many of us have heard the same health recommendation for the past few months — as much as possible, stay home. As summer draws to a close and entertainment ideas wane, why not create a defined space to meet your family’s needs? A designated games room or entertainment area provides convenience and recreation in the comfort of your own home. From family games to home theatre and sound systems, choices and customizations are endless.

You may never want to leave the house again!

The best kind of entertainment is something that can be shared with the whole family. Games like foosball, billiards, air hockey, and darts are always a good investment, but the choice is dependent on the size of the space you have available.

Foosball is fast-paced and fun, great for adults and kids of all ages. The table also takes up far less space than a pool table or shuffleboard, and there are even smaller tabletop options that can be stored away when not in use. Air hockey tables come in a variety of sizes and are another alternative if space is limited. Darts — that popular pub classic — brings out a friendly competitive spirit and come in boards or cabinets, if you prefer the added benefit of storage.

Billiards, shuffleboard, and ping pong tables are solid and large, so the size of your games room is an important factor in whether or not one can be part of your vision. “For those with a lot of room, billiards and ping pong tables have been tremendous sellers for us,” says Jeremy Kalapacz from Oakville Home Leisure. “Billiards, ping pong, foosball, and darts, are all games your family can enjoy for many years; it really just comes down to space constrictions”.

Feel like recapturing some childhood memories? Video arcade machines bring a retro touch to any gaming area. Many of the ones built for at-home use are multi-gamed with all of your classic favourites.

Sights & Sounds

The idea of creating a cinematic experience the whole family can enjoy is appealing. “We have definitely seen an increased interest in home theatres and whole-home audio. Families still want to be able to have a night at the movies and they want it without the worry and concern of having to leave their homes,” says Sarah Love from PM WYRE in Burlington. “We also have frequent requests to improve the WIFI and internet infrastructure of family homes to support the increased demand for streaming movies, gaming, and online learning.”

While it can seem pricey upfront, upgrading movie night means more date nights in and fewer trips to an overpriced snack bar.

As the demand for home theatre and sound systems grows, take the time to do your due diligence and research which system is optimal for your home. You may want the largest TV on the market but consider the size in relation to the seating the space offers. If putting together your dream theatre and sound system seems overwhelming, speak with professionals who can gauge your needs and budget, and come up with a customized plan for your family.

Another popular option is expanding your entertainment space into the backyard. People are beginning to transform their outdoor space into a recreational option to adhere to social distancing requirements. “We have promised our clients for years the opportunity to come home, press one button, and use technology to help create a unique experience, which extends to all of the home,” remarks Robert May from Sounds Good in Oakville, “What about a summer drive-in movie experience in the backyard with your new outdoor TV?”

A designated at-home entertainment area isn’t just for the kids. It brings the family together across all generations for some healthy competition and enjoyment.

Written By: Kristen Sanchioni

Local Links

Oakville Home Leisure

https://www.oakvillehomeleisure.ca

Oakville Sight and Sound

https://www.oakvillesightandsound.ca

Sounds Good Inc.

https://www.soundsgoodinc.ca

PM Wyre

https://pmwyre.com

In Community

Pumpkin Spice: Where to get your Fall flavour fix

September 27, 2020 No Comments

Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall…

Just as the seasons are changing and the leaves are turning colour, local bakers and baristas are switching up their menus to welcome in those sweet (and spicy!) Fall flavours!

Below, we’ve listed locally-owned bakeries, coffee joints and gelato shops, in Oakville and Burlington, that are serving up the ultimate flavour of the season: Pumpkin Spice.

Dreaming of a Pumpkin Spice Latte? These local coffee shops will serve you up with a #PSL that will have you coming back for more:

Tribeca Coffee Co. | Downtown Oakville | IG: @tribecacoffeeco

Julia’s Joyful Kitchen | Oakville | IG: @juliasjoyfulkitchen

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe | Burlington | IG: @kellysbake

Tamp Coffee Co. | Burlington | IG: @tampcoffeeco

Lakeshore Coffee House | Burlington | IG: @lakeshorecoffeehousee

How about some pumpkin spice bread or scones to go with that latte? Check out these local bakeries:

Stina Bee Bakes | Oakville | IG: @stinabeebakes

Julia’s Joyful Kitchen | Oakville | IG: @juliasjoyfulkitchen

Cobs Bread Bakery | Downtown Oakville | IG: @cobsbreadlakeshore

Cobs Bread Bakery | Upper Oakville | IG: @cobsbreadupperoakville

Cobs Bread Bakery | Burlington | IG: @cobsbreadburlingtonmaplemews

Craving a sweet treat? These local cupcake shops and bakeries are baking up mouth-watering pumpkin cupcakes or cookies, to satisfy your sweet-tooth:

The Sweetest Thing | Oakville (Kerr Village) | IG: @thesweetestthingcake

Cupid’s Gourmet Bakery| Oakville | IG: @cupids_bakery

Sugar Suite Cakes | Downtown Oakville | IG: @sugarsuitecakes

Julia’s Joyful Kitchen | Oakville | IG: @juliasjoyfulkitchen

Stina Bee Bakes | Oakville | IG: @stinabeebakes

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe | Burlington | IG: @kellysbake

Molly Cake | Burlington | IG: @mollycake

Looking for a pumpkin pie (or a pumpkin cheesecake) for Thanksgiving dinner? These shops have got you covered:

Black Forest Pastry Shop | Downtown Oakville | IG: @bfpastryshop

Kerr St. Cafe | Oakville (Kerr Village) | IG: @kerrstreetcafe

Cupid’s Gourmet Bakery |Upper Oakville | IG: @cupids_bakery

Julia’s Joyful Kitchen | Oakville | IG: @juliasjoyfulkitchen

That Pie Place | Burlington | IG: @thatpieplace.burlington

Lailas Cheesecake Co. | Burlington | IG: @lailascheesecakeco

Molly Cake | Burlington | IG: @mollycake

And for something equally sweet and delicious, you’ll want seconds after you try the pumpkin gelato at these popular local spots:

Nyla’s Room | Downtown Oakville | IG: @nylas_room

La Dolce Vita | Oakville | IG: @ladolcevita_22

The Flavour Fox | Oakville (Bronte Village) | IG: @theflavourfox

I Love Gelato | Burlington | IG: @ilovegelatoburlont

Did we miss you? Email us at info@looklocalmagazine.com or send us a direct message on Instagram/Facebook to have us add you to the list!

In Community

Your Fall 2020 Activity Guide: apple picking, corn mazes, spooky Halloween fun

September 20, 2020 No Comments

…Looking for some fun Fall-inspired activities to enjoy with your friends and family in the Halton region?

Well, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit to celebrate the Autumn harvest season and even Halloween! As a bonus, you’ll be supporting local.

Apples, Pumpkins…It’s Pickin’ Season!

Chudleighs Farm
9528 Regional Road 25, Georgetown, Halton Hills
September through October
Located in Halton Hills, Chudleighs Farm has been serving the area for more than 50 years and it’s become an annual tradition for people to visit Chudleighs for apple picking and other fun Fall activities at the farm. During harvest season from September through October, guests are invited to pick from 22 varieties of apples across the farm’s 60 acres. Along with apple picking, there’s lots more to explore, including: scenic tractor wagon rides by the Niagara Escarpment, visits with the farm animals, treks down the farm’s nature trails, and a hay bale playground for both the young and the young at heart!
https://www.chudleighs.com/

Andrew’s Scenic Acres
9365 10th Sideroad, Milton
With acres upon acres of pumpkins, in every shape, size and colour, you’re sure to find the perfect pumpkin at Andrew’s Scenic Acres! You’ll find jack-o’-lanterns, pie pumpkins, miniature, warty white, green and grey pumpkins. Also, you won’t want to leave without trying Andrews’ seasonal pumpkin ice cream and their one-of-a-kind pumpkin wine from their on-site winery!
https://www.andrewsscenicacres.com/

Springridge Farm
7256 Bell School Line, Milton
While U-Pick isn’t an option at Springridge this Fall, the farm welcomes anyone to stop by and purchase fresh produce that’s already been picked and is ready to bring home! Visitors can choose from three options to pick up their farm-fresh produce, including: visiting the Barn Market or the brand-new Front Porch Servery, or ordering online for barnside pick-up! Along with the produce (including apples, pumpkins, gourds, corn), visitors can pick up freshly-baked goods, lunch items, or even find a beautiful collection of locally-made gifts (fashion, jewellery, accessories, home decor) at the loft boutique inside the Barn Market.
https://www.springridgefarm.com/

Stonehaven Farms
7388 Guelph Line, Campbellville
Stonehaven’s market reopens on September 19 for the Falls season, offering a variety of farm-fresh and gourmet food items, baked goods, and unique gifts made by local artisans. Stonehaven has pre-picked pumpkins for purchase, or visitors are invited to purchase a ticket if they’d like to pick their own. https://www.stonehavenfarms.com/

Souptogo
573 Parkside Drive, Waterdown
This lovely farm in the Village of Waterdown (within the Greater Hamilton Area) welcomes visitors to pick that perfect pumpkin, enjoy family photos with Fall-themed decor, and visit the bakery where they can enjoy homemade treats (scones, breads, pies) and delicious homemade soups that range from Sweet Potato Apple Bacon to Chicken Pot Pie or Ham & Gouda (among a variety of other flavours that change on a daily basis). soup-to-go.ca

Get Lost! (In a Corn Maze)

Andrew’s Scenic Acres
9365 10th Sideroad, Milton
Along with their large pumpkin patch to get you stocked up for Halloween, you and your family can spend a whole fun-filled afternoon at Andrew’s! There’s several hay bale playgrounds for the kids (or young at heart!), a winery and market to pick up some pumpkin wine, produce and farm-fresh baked goods, and a corn maze to explore together (if you’re feeling adventurous!).
https://www.andrewsscenicacres.com/

Stonehaven Farms
7388 Guelph Line, Campbellville
Stonehaven Farms invites you to get lost in their five-acre Giant Corn Maze and then be challenged to a game found within the maze. The Maze opens early September and runs continuously on weekends and Thanksgiving Monday for all visitors until the end of October. Weekday and Nightly adventures by flashlight (bring your own) are also available by pre-booking only, with a minimum charge applied for groups less than 20 people. Strollers/wagons are not recommended, and proper footwear is advised within the maze. For those seeking a full afternoon’s worth of fun, they can book the ‘Fall Fun All Inclusive Package’, which includes the maze, along with unlimited wagon rides and the ‘Strawhaven’ Straw Bale area.
https://www.stonehavenfarms.com/

Boo! Have some Spooktacular Fun

Pumpkins After Dark: Drive-Thru Event
Country Heritage Park
8560 Tremaine Rd, Milton
September 18 to November 1 (Thursdays to Sundays starting after dark)
After selling out last year and receiving great reviews, Pumpkins After Dark is returning this Fall but will now take place as a drive-thru event! Fun with your family, friends or even alone, visitors will enjoy a 1.5 hour spooktacular drive through a 2.5 km loop in Milton’s Country Heritage Park, lit up on either side by over 150 one-of-kind pumpkin sculptures. Visitors will also have the option to tune into the local radio station for a complete guided audio tour as they cruise along and marvel at the uniquely carved jack-o-lanterns. Tickets must be pre-purchased online, with a timed entry.
https://pumpkinsafterdark.com/

The Great Pumpkin Trail
680 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Friday October 23 and Saturday October 24
It’s a magical evening on the Pumpkin Trail! Follow the candlelit glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns guiding your way through Hendrie Park, and along the South Bridle Trail. Encounter roaming entertainment and other special guests who are ready to share some cool facts about bats, spiders, and of course PUMPKINS! Don’t miss the unique opportunity to take part in this family-friendly event celebrating the fall season. Don’t forget your costume!
https://www.rbg.ca/events/the-great-pumpkin-trail/?on=2020-10-23

Trick or …. Trivia? Halloween Edition
Online, via the Royal Botanical Gardens
Wednesday October 28
The things that go bump in the night and make your hair stand on end are coming for you this October with RBG Virtual Trivia! Delve into the world of monsters, ghosts, creepy crawlies and freaky science as we explore all things Halloween! Be sure to join the RBG Team on Wednesday October 28 for a ghoulish good time! Questions will be presented through Zoom by the trivia host(s) and participants can enter their answers on Kahoot! through their mobile device. Pre-Registration is required to participate.
https://www.rbg.ca/events/virtual-trivia-night/?on=2020-09-23

In Features

Smooth Sipping: Your Guide to Local Distillers

September 11, 2020 No Comments

Written by: Anneliese Lawton

Walk down any beer aisle at the LCBO or your grocery store, and you’ll find an assortment of carefully crafted, small-batch local beer. Infused with seasonal flavours and influenced by local ingredients, craft beer has been gaining in popularity since the boom of the microbrewery in the 1990s.

While Canada has a longstanding history in the beer industry, we also have a “spirited” past dating back nearly 250 years. Legend has it that a fellow named James Grant started making rum in the first legal distillery in Quebec City. Over centuries, Canada has forged a reputation for its high-quality whisky and inspired a growing scene of craft distilleries, which produce everything from tequila and gin to vodka, rum, and, of course, whisky.

On the rocks? Neat? Sitting with a cigar in a wingback chair? With craft distilleries popping up right in our own backyard, it’s easy to sip your way through the GTHA.

Forty Creek Whisky | Grimsby

Fortycreekwhisky.com

A fixture in Grimsby since 1992, Forty Creek Whisky has been instrumental in ushering what would eventually become the craft spirits movement. Founded by John K. Hall, a winemaker with over four decades of experience in the industry, Forty Creek has largely been responsible for putting Canadian whisky back on the map.

Their flagship whisky, Barrel Select, is a blend of rye, corn, and barley. Warm gold in colour, it offers complex aromas and flavours of apricots, caramel, spice, vanilla, ginger, and toasted oak, ending in a long smooth finish.

Coming this fall are two limited-edition whiskies, along with Forty Creek’s 14th annual Whisky Weekend – although, this years’ event will be a virtual celebration.

Dillons | Beamsville

Dillons.ca

Founded by in-law duo Geoff Dillon and Gary Huggins, Dillon’s broke into the spirit industry with one goal: to create new spirits from old ideas and to make them with unparalleled quality, handcrafted, one small batch at a time.

Distilled the traditional way – using a copper pot – Dillon’s gin, rye, vodka, and bitters has impressed palates across North America. Using only local Niagara botanicals, and the freshest produce, flavours of their spirits vary according to what’s in season. For example, strawberries sourced in Jordan, Ontario are distilled to create their strawberry gin. This fruity spirit, perfect for cocktails, brings summer to life any time of year. They also have a cherry gin, rose gin, black walnut amaro, absinthe, peach schnapps, vodka, and rye.

Collective Arts Brewing | Hamilton

Collectiveartsbewing.com

An active player in the craft beer scene since 2013, Collective Arts fuses the creativity of craft beer with the inspired talents of emerging artists and musicians. With a successful and diverse beer line-up established, Collective Arts expanded their mixology in 2019 with their flagship Artisanal Dry Gin. Crafted in small batches with juniper berries and their unique, house-made botanical blend, the artisanal gin offers flavours and aromas of fresh lemon, lime, and orange peel.

As of August 2020, Collective Arts has three varieties of gin – Artisanal Dry, Rhubarb and Hibiscus, and their current seasonal blend: Plum and Blackthorn. They also launched a new line of canned Sparkling Gin Cocktails in April 2020 and a line of Sparkling Hard Teas (mango and pineapple, peach and orange, and blueberry and elderberry). All spirits feature their signature creative arts and are available through delivery or pickup at the brewery – although, many of their products are available at the LCBO.

SilverFox Distillery | Arthur (Wellington County)

silverfoxdistillery.ca

Open for business in February 2020, SilverFox Distillery is just breaking ground in the craft spirit industry. Mark Townsend, the master distiller for SilverFox, has been busy renovating a 3,100 square ft. facility since January 2019. With COVID restrictions in phase 3, Mark is ready to share his craft. Their signature multiple grain FoxShine White Lightning is made in a traditional Canadian fashion. Corn, oats, and wheat all harmonize to make this 100-proof spirit. For this Fall, try their Apple Pie Moonshine, featuring a blend of mulling spices to create an ole time experience.