Celebrate the holidays in Hamilton with a wide range of festive activities and outdoor adventures. Whether you enjoy exploring holiday lights, staying active, or discovering local treasures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas and Boxing Day.
Things to Do in Hamilton on Christmas & Boxing Day
Admire Christmas Lights
Want more? Check out these spectacularly lit places in Ontario.
Do a Christmas Day Bird Count
Join the Hamilton Christmas Bird Count on Boxing Day (December 26) or do your own count at home on Christmas Day. Grab a bird ID app and explore Hamilton’s birding areas for a chance to spot popular winter birds. This enjoyable activity combines nature appreciation and mindfulness in the crisp winter air.
2025 Boxing Day Runs
Get moving with a 4-mile or 10-mile course, which includes 5 miles of waterfront trail, on December 26th. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the festive spirit with fellow participants in a picturesque setting.
See a Movie
Unwind with a holiday movie at Cineplex or Landmark Theatres. Whether you’re catching the latest blockbuster or a family favourite, it’s a cozy way to spend time together during the holiday season.
Movies released/releasing include:
- Avatar: Fire and Ash
- Anaconda (Releasing Dec 25)
- Song Sung Blue (Releasing Dec 25)
- The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
- The Housemaid
- Five Nights at Freddy’s 2
- David
- Zootopia 2
- Wicked: For Good
Geocaching
Embark on a geocaching adventure and uncover hidden treasures throughout Hamilton. Using a mobile app or GPS device, search for geocaches in parks and trails. This family-friendly activity offers an exciting way to explore the outdoors while engaging in a modern treasure hunt.
Enjoy a Walk
25 Outdoor Winter Activities in Hamilton
Hit the Trails
Explore Hamilton’s winter trails for a fun outdoor adventure. Discover the Waterfront Trail at Hamilton Harbour, the Escarpment Rail Trail, or the Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail. Whether you prefer walking, snowshoeing, or skiing, these trails are perfect for a winter workout.
Christmas Brunch or Dinner
Celebrate the season with a festive meal at one of Hamilton’s top restaurants. Options include Carmen’s Catering, Ancaster Mill, and Baci Ristorante. Indulge in delicious cuisine while supporting local businesses during the holidays.
A few options:
- The Innsville
- Baci Ristorante
- Ancaster Mill
- The Keg Steakhouse
- Radius Restaurant
- Moxie’s Restaurant
- Aberdeen Tavern
- Milestones Restaurant
Public Art
Take a self-guided tour to explore Hamilton’s vibrant street art. Discover murals and installations that add a unique cultural charm to the city while enjoying a leisurely stroll through its streets.
Go Tobogganing
Let the snow bring some winter fun with tobogganing at designated hills in Hamilton. A classic holiday activity, it’s perfect for creating memories with family and friends.
Plan a Trip to a Nearby Provincial Park /Conservation Area
Escape to nearby Conservation Halton parks for skiing, hiking, and winter camping. Kelso, Hilton Falls, and Rattlesnake Point offer exciting winter activities. Hamilton Conservation Areas also provide diverse winter sports options, from ice climbing to snowshoeing.
25 Ontario Provincial Parks to Visit During Winter in Ontario
Take a Twirl on the Ice
Enjoy skating at the City’s skating rinks. Skate into the holiday season at Hamilton Waterfront Outdoor Rink – Pier 8. Open throughout the season, it offers skate rentals on-site, making it a convenient and joyful winter activity.
Explore these activities and more to make your Christmas and Boxing Day in Hamilton truly unforgettable! For additional ideas, check out family activities during the winter break and upcoming events.