Hamilton 
Whether fall makes you want to cozy up indoors, walk through the city, or explore the changing natural scenery, Hamilton has something for everyone.
Photo Credit: Lenok UA
Check out this list for 50 ideas on how to spend your fall in Hamilton and the surrounding area.
1. Events and Festivals
Hamilton Comic Con
The Hamilton Comic Con returns for a two-day pop culture extravaganza at Hamilton Convention Centre. The event features exhibitors, artists, Cosplay, movie cars, free panels, and celebrity guests. September 19 – 20, 2026
Harvest Festival
From September 9 to October 10, Hamilton Farmers’ Market is turning the Market into a five-week Fall experience packed with things to eat, see, hear and discover. Feel the Fall vibes with seasonal food, local businesses, pop-up vendors, live music, DJs, entertainment, shopping and more.
Ottawa Street Sidewalk Sale
Support your favourite Ottawa Street North businesses and local pop-up vendors during the sidewalk sale! There will be live music with Folk ‘n’ Spoken Word Fest and Mixtape Rewind, free activities at East Kiwanis Place parkette, and more! September 26, 2026.
Raffi
Sing along with Raffi at FirstOntario Concert Hall in Hamilton on September 26 at 2:00 p.m., with special guest Good Lovelies. Families can enjoy favourites like “Baby Beluga,” “Down By The Bay,” and “Bananaphone,” with proceeds benefiting the Raffi Foundation.
Fall Festival Weekends at Brantwood Farms
Each weekend, Brantwood Farms will be open to the public for a day of fall fun for the whole family. Enjoy pumpkin bowling, corn maze, obstacle course, super slide, haunted barn, and more activities and fun to keep all visitors entertained. Weekends, September 5 through October 31, 2026
Breakfast with Spider-Man
Join us at District Kitchen & Bar for breakfast with Spiderman experience your little one will never forget! Enjoy a delicious breakfast, superhero fun, and unforgettable memories for your little heroes. September 27, 2026
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Caledonia Fair
Happening at the Caledonia Fairgrounds, the Caledonia Fair combines the traditions of the country fair – livestock shows, home craft, food, and the midway – with continuous entertainment to make Caledonia Fair a perfect Autumn outing for the entire family. October 1 – 4, 2026
Cranberry Harvest
Visit Cranberry Marsh and take part in an experience that is unique in Northern America!! See how 27 acres of marsh that produce around 300,000-400,000 lbs of cranberries are harvested!
Sisters of ’78
See Sisters of ’78, a powerful new play by award-winning playwright Kristen Da Silva, inspired by the historic Fleck Strike in Centralia, Ontario. Blending humour and emotion, the story follows a group of women who challenge unsafe conditions, harassment, and inequality in a fight for dignity and collective power. Septemebr 30 – October 17, 2026.
African Lion Safari Drive-thru
Drive through the Game Reserve before they close on October 11th. African Lion Safari is home to over 1000 birds and animals.
Events at Ancaster Fairgrounds
Throughout the fall, Ancaster Fairgrounds offers events and shows, including the Gem, Mineral, Bead and Jewelry show on October 3 – 4, 2026, the Ancaster Lions Charity Craft and Gift Show on November 7 – 8, 2026, and the 176th Ancaster Fair to celebrate the best of Fall on September 24 – 27, 2026. The Ancaster Collectibles Show & Sale takes place on December 6, 2026, and the Toy & Collectibles Expo will happen 0n December 20, 2026.
The Hamilton Model Train Show
Visit the Hamilton Model Train Show and Sale on Sunday, October 4 at the Michelangelo Events and Conference Centre for a family-friendly day of model trains, operating layouts, hobby supplies, railroad memorabilia, books, photos, and more from vendors across Ontario.
Culture Days
Celebrate arts and culture with hands-on and behind-the-scenes activities that highlight the importance of arts and culture in our communities. September 18 – October 4, 2026
Festival of Fountains – The Night Garden
Indulge all your senses with a visit to the Whistling Gardens. Festival of Fountains – The Night Garden is an interpretive storytelling experience of music, water, and lighting that invites guests to explore the scenic 22-acre, multi-award-winning botanical beauty before nightfall, enjoy on-site friendly food and beverage hospitality, and showcase local pop-up talent. Fridays & Saturdays, August 28 – September 26, 2026
Fear Farm
Visit Fear Farm and enjoy the world-famous hayride and outdoor haunts, and the Hiller House. This is the fall event not too miss. Tickets will sell out so don’t delay. select dates, September 26 – October 31, 2026
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Rockton World’s Fair
Rockton World’s Fair is a four-day event showcasing a commitment to Agriculture, Education, and Entertainment and features Ag/Education Programs, Children’s & Family Entertainment, Heavy Horse Show, 4-H Shows, Livestock Shows, Demo Derby, delicious food, entertainment, and much more. October 9 to 12, 2026
Symphony in Space: The Ultimate Sci-Fi Concert
Blast off with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra for an out-of-this-world symphonic adventure led by conductor Evan Mitchell. From distant galaxies to dystopian futures, this electrifying program celebrates the music that has defined sci-fi on screen and in our imaginations for generations. October 24, 2026
John Cleese and the Holy Grail at 50
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate 50 years of Monty Python and the Holy Grail with the one and only John Cleese! This once-in-a-lifetime event features a special screening of the beloved cult classic, followed by an uproarious conversation and audience Q&A with Cleese himself, where he’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, wit, and wisdom—assuming he remembers any of it. October 4, 2026
Mum Show
Hamilton’s favourite fall show will be back again this year! From October 17th to 25th, the Gage Park Greenhouse will bloom with Chrysanthemums.
A Hamilton Tiger-Cats Game
Avid football fans rejoice! Hamilton is home to the Canadian Football League’s Tiger-Cats, with regular-season games extending into late October.
Vengaboys & ProzzaK
Dance the night away with Vengaboys & Prozzak at FirstOntario Concert Hall in Hamilton on October 16 at 8:00 p.m. Expect a high-energy throwback party packed with Vengaboys favourites like “We Like To Party!,” “Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom!!” and “We’re Going To Ibiza!” alongside ProzzaK.
Preserves! Gardens In the Fall
Step back in time at Preserves! Gardens in the Fall at Westfield Heritage Village on October 18 from 12 to 4 p.m., where historic kitchens come alive with traditional drying, salting, and pickling techniques. Learn how century-old food preservation methods remain useful today, and enjoy a seasonal clothespin squirrel craft during your visit.
The Last Waltz: A Musical Celebration of The Band LIVE
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Last Waltz at Peller Hall on October 10, with an all-star Canadian lineup led by Juno Award-winning musical director Lance Anderson. Hear favourites like “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” in a live tribute recreating the spirit of The Band’s legendary 1976 farewell concert.
Come From Away
See the Tony Award-winning musical Come From Away at Peller Hall in Ancaster from November 13 to 29, telling the remarkable true story of a Newfoundland community that welcomed 7,000 stranded travellers after 9/11. Filled with Canadian warmth, humour, and a folk-inspired score, it’s an uplifting story of kindness, friendship, and resilience.
Newfoundland Songbook by Shipyard Kitchen Party
Experience the Newfoundland Songbook by Shipyard Kitchen Party at McIntyre Performing Arts Centre on October 23 at 7:30 p.m., with an evening of sea shanties, ballads, original music, and lively sing-alongs. From the creators of Tom Thomson’s Wake and 100 Years from Now, this all-ages show celebrates the music, humour, and spirit of Newfoundland.
Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance
Join the merriment and frivolity at the annual Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance as the Toronto All-Star Big Band performs nostalgic tunes from the 1940s. Feel the spirit of that era as you dance among the vintage aircraft of the Canadian Warplane Heritage. November 14, 2026
No Recipe Needed!
Catch The Portuguese Kids in No Recipe Needed! at McIntyre Performing Arts Centre on November 13 at 8:30 p.m. for a fast-paced mix of improv, Portuguese family humour, and everyday chaos. Expect a fresh, unpredictable comedy show that changes every night.
Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty
See Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty at McIntyre Performing Arts Centre on November 21 at 6:00 p.m., where six local dancers bring the classic tale to life through ballet and glowing costumes. The 60-minute performance blends classical choreography with modern lighting technology for a visually striking family-friendly show.
The Nutcracker
Don’t miss the annual holiday magic of “The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition” by Ballet Jörgen, a beloved classic choreographed by Bengt Jörgen, set to Tchaikovsky’s score, and featuring over 100 vibrant costumes amid stunning 20th-century Canadian landscapes. This heartwarming show follows Klara’s dream journey through a winter wonderland filled with snowflakes, lumberjacks, Mounties, and woodland creatures. December 5, 2026
Cinderella
See Cinderella at McIntyre Performing Arts Centre on December 2nd, presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and performed by the United European Ballet. This family-friendly, Broadway-style ballet features Prokofiev’s celebrated score, elaborate sets, elegant costumes, and international dancers bringing the classic fairytale to life.
2. Activities in (and near) the City
The Ship
Whether you’re looking for a bit to eat in the morning or evening, the Ship offers a delicious menu and craft beers. Burgers and brunch will never be the same.
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Quatrefoil Restaurant
Sometimes the best thing to do is treat yourself – Quatrefoil will do just that. A fine dining experience that includes local ingredients and superb pairings, it has been rated one of the top ten newly opened restaurants in Canada.
Canada’s Warplane Heritage Museum
Interested in planes and history? Check out Canada’s Warplane Heritage Museum, which boasts a complete collection of Canadian flown military aircraft. Do not forget to attend the Remembrance Day service.
Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery
Whether as a couple or with a group of friends, you can never go wrong with a visit to the Puddicombe Farms during the fall season. Puddicombe Estate offers tours and tastings of their award-winning vintages. Cider is also available! They are also open for a variety of pick-your-own fruits from July to late October. PYO apples usually happens from late September to late October. Enjoy harvest fun time with wine & cider tastings, campfires, fall fun games, and more in October.
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Royal Botanical Gardens
Royal Botanical Gardens
Whether you’re interested in strolling through gardens, hiking trails, or taking courses or workshops, the Royal Botanical Gardens have something for everyone! Plan your visit during the Great Pumpkin Trail (October 15 – 18 and 23 – 25, 2026) to see hundreds of jack-o-lanterns – all lighted up!
If you are visiting RBG during the fall, don’t forget to check out the Rock Garden. Remarkable fall colours, water displays, flowering conifers, ornamental trees make it a wonderful place in the autumn season. Apart from fall colours, the RBG is made colourful by the blooms in the garden beds. Use the bloom calendar on the RBG website to check out which flowers are in bloom while visiting.
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The Bruce Trail
To fully enjoy the changing colours of leaves in southern Ontario, it is a must to check out the Bruce Trail in the fall. The trail extends from Tobermory to Niagara, spanning over 890 kilometres. There are various places you can check out during the trail, including the Limehouse Conservation Area in the Halton Hills.
Myrtleville House Museum
Take a step back in time and learn about the early life of Canadian settlers through the story of the Good family. The museum includes a blacksmith workshop, ice house, smokehouse, and gardens. A perfect fall day trip for people of all ages!
Hamilton Farmers’ Market
A local favourite, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market is home to over 60 vendors, featuring international and national food, baked goods, flowers, and more! This year, the Farmers’ Market will be operating from Wednesdays to Saturdays.
Spencer’s Gorge and Webster Falls
Feel like chasing waterfalls? Spencer’s Gorge and Webster Falls offer stunning views and an even better photo backdrop, particularly with the changing colours of fall leaves in the area.
Reservations may be required for the following long weekends and daily during fall. Get your tickets here.
The Escarpment Rail Trail
Biking enthusiasts, this one is for you! Follow the historic railroad starting from downtown Hamilton and ride along part of the Trans Canada Trail. This is a moderately difficult trail that is 19 kilometers round-trip, recommended for experienced riders. The changing natural scenery during fall will make it all the more worthwhile!
Corn Maze Adventures
Fall just isn’t the same without the tall corn stalks that provide the perfect landscape for family fun. Check out the corn maze adventures in and around Hamilton!
Apple Picking
Open throughout the fall, Wheelbarrow Orchards provides a variety of apple trees ripe for the picking. Be sure to try some of the homemade baked goods on your way out, including apple pies and butter tarts!
You can also enjoy PYO apples at Carluke Apple Orchard.
Whistling Gardens
Visit the National Award Winning, Internationally acclaimed and one of Canada’s only privately run Botanical Gardens and see why Whistling Gardens was recently voted as one of Canada’s Best Botanical Gardens. Explore nearly 20 acres where you can view over 4,500 different plants.
Twin Valley Zoo
Enjoy a day at the 25-acre, family-run, wildlife park that is home to 80 species of animals including; Lions, Tigers, Wolves, Birds, Bears, Deer, Alpaca, Primates, and so much more!
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Dundurn National Historic Site
The former home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, Dundurn Castle is a stunning 40-room villa built in the early 1800’s. Explore the rich history of the former military encampment and of those who lived within its walls.
PYO Pumpkins
Pick the perfect pumpkin for your fall decor, jack-o’-lantern, or your favourite pie. PYO pumpkins are open at Dyment’s Pumpkin Patch.
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Ancaster Farmers Market
Featuring local vendors, the Ancaster Farmers Market is a great place to source fresh and locally grown food. Be sure to take advantage of the last few weeks of harvest!
Dundas Peak
Dundas Peak offers a beautiful lookout over Dundas and Hamilton. Ideal for those wanting a short and sweet hike and ideal fall views from the top.
Reservations are required for the following long weekends and daily during fall. Get your tickets here.
Farmhouse Artisan Cheese
Looking to spice up your charcuterie board? Visit the Farmhouse Artisan Cheese shop to sample a large selection of cheeses and pick up some jams and chutneys on your way out!
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Six Nations
Experience the Grand River Territory with the Haudenosaunee community through rich oral histories and traditions. Fall activities include canoeing along the river, walking trails, exploring the crafts of the Haudenosaunee people, and visiting the Chiefswood National Historic Site.
Bogle Seeds
The Bogle family welcomes all to visit their family farm and historic barn. Observe how they process and mix their popular bird seeds.
Goat Yoga
Triple C Farm offers goat yoga, the practice of traditional yoga with the playful antics of goats. They will climb on you and lay down to relax on you; they have also been known to fall asleep cuddled in your lap while you’re doing Lotus pose.
The Workers Arts and Heritage
A place where workers’ achievements are celebrated, the Workers Arts and Heritage strives to honour the history of all working people. Exhibitions and events change regularly, so be sure to check out the museum.
Paris
No, not the one in Europe! Visit the ‘Prettiest Town in Canada’ this fall and relax on a patio, stroll through the downtown, or grab a bite to eat.
Bayfront Park
Described as a green oasis in the city of Hamilton, Bayfront Park is the perfect place to spend time during those warm fall days that remind you of summer. Relax and enjoy your surroundings or rent a bike or walk along the Waterfront Trail.
The International Village
Home to over 100 shops and services in the heart of Hamilton, the International Village is a popular place for dining and shopping.
Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Experience the natural setting with trails running through forests, past fields, and lakes of the Niagara Escarpment. Pack a picnic and spend your day under a canopy of fall colours!
Ottawa Street
Need a relaxing day in the fall to stroll around town and do some window shopping? Ottawa Street in Hamilton is a charming spot to do just that!
Paddling
Take a paddling trip from Paris to Brant Park and experience scenic paddle from a town setting into pristine wilderness! The fall colours will make your experience that much more memorable.
Salmon Run
See salmon migrate upstream for spawning as the temperature falls at Bronte Creek in Oakville, Red Hill Creek (Kings Forest), Grindstone Creek (RBG Trails) and Spencer Creek at Dundas (Cootes Paradise Neighbourhood).
Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Fabulous lookout points, rock climbing, excellent hiking trails, picnic spots, overnight camping… Plan your day trip/overnight trip to the Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area. There are many trails that you can choose – from quick ones to overnight treks.
Fifty Point Conservation Area
A perfect place for bird watching and fishing, Fifty Point is the place to go before the winter rolls around. The Fifty Point Lighthouse is a picturesque stop and must-see.
Albion Falls
Hamilton is home to a wide selection of waterfalls, but Albion Falls is a must-see! The beautiful cascade is accessed by an easy 5-minute walk, and the memories of the fall backdrop will last a lifetime.
Creative Insight Pottery
Tap into your creative side and take a fine arts class, pottery class, or attend an event at the Creative Insight Pottery in Waterdown. Check out the Fall term schedule and develop new skills from trained teachers!
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Rock Chapel Loop
Hike this 6.3 km trail along the Niagara Escarpment that features Borer’s Falls, a 15-meter waterfall drop. This scenic valley is home to a diverse variety of rare flora and fauna.
Eramosa Karst
A unique natural area composed of forests, underground caves, and streams, Eramosa Karst offers several activities for fall days. Hike through the conservation area and explore all it has to offer.
Halloween
Where do you want to experience the best of scares?
Tiffany Falls Conservation Area
One of the more popular conservation areas dues due to the presence of two waterfalls – Tiffany Falls and Washboard Falls. This area is also an Earth Science Area of Regional Significance due to the exposed bedrock seen here.
Art Gallery of Hamilton
Visiting the Art Gallery of Hamilton is the perfect activity for a crisp fall day. Browse historic or contemporary art styles or visit the current exhibition featuring an interactive augmented reality tour for visitors to experience in the Gallery.
Carnegie Gallery
Located in Dundas, the Carnegie Gallery offers both exhibitions and an art shop. The space showcases contemporary Canadian artists and changes exhibitions every month.
Healing Salt Caves
Exploring Hamilton and the surrounding areas are bound to leave you needing some R&R. The Healing Salt Cave is a halotherapy wellness centre and holistic spa that offers a warm and relaxing experience, perfect for cool fall weather.
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