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Tourism Hamilton
Winter Fun in Hamilton: Events, Festivals and Outdoor Adventures
The weather outside is frightful… but that doesn’t mean there aren’t delightful things to do out there! Although you may have to dress warmer, there’s no shortage of fun activities to do in winter. Here are a few of the best activities that you’ll find in Hamilton!
Events and Festivals
The Ancaster Toy & Collectibles Expo
The ANCASTER TOY AND COLLECTIBLES EXPO is a show for the serious toy and collectibles collector as well as a great family event with lots to see! Be sure to get your chance at a great door prize, PLUS 5 free card gradings from MNT. Details
Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Ancaster Fairgrounds – Merritt Hall, 630 Trinity Rd S, Hamilton
Salute To Vienna
Celebrate the New Year in style with the Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert at FirstOntario Concert Hall. This cherished Hamilton tradition brings Vienna’s Golden Age to life with stunning costumes, lively dancing, and timeless melodies like the “Blue Danube Waltz.” With elegant costumes, bright floral designs, and even a joke or two from the conductor, this cherished tradition is the perfect way to waltz into the new year. Details
Sunday, December 28, 2025 | 2:30 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
Monomyth: The Hero’s Journey
Start your new year with the HPO in an invigorating concert for the heroic at heart! Alondra de la Parra conducts the Orchestra in three stand-out symphonic classics, including Beethoven’s revolutionary Third Symphony, evoking a hero’s journey of overcoming adversity with courage and optimism. Details
January 17, 2026 | 3:00 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
BOOM X
BOOM X picks up at Woodstock in August of ‘69, and takes us all the way to 1995, when the internet began to dominate our lives. Over the course of 100 minutes, Miller plays over 100 colourful characters from the days of disco, the oil crisis, Watergate, the Cold War, video games, punk rock, the (second) British Invasion, and more. An explosive, inter-generational celebration of Canada, and its place in the world. Details
January 21 – February 7, 2026
Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William St, Hamilton
My Fair Lady
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the magic of My Fair Lady, you won’t want to miss this concert-style production (featuring the entire script and score with minimal dancing and lighter set elements), brought to life by the incredible talent and heart of the Theatre Ancaster Classics Company. This Seniors Series show features performers aged 55+ from our Classics Company: Musical program. Details
January 21 – February 7, 2026
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St East, Ancaster
Bloomland in Oz
Follow the road that leads to Royal Botanical Gardens’ 2026 floral showcase, “Bloomland in Oz,” where imagination blossoms into a spectacular adventure inspired by the pages of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Details
January 31 to April 6, 2026
RBG Centre, 680 Plains Road W., Burlington
RBG WinterTide
Experience a unique Canadian winter at the Rock Garden, now a stylish indoor and outdoor jazz lounge adorned with lights and firepits. Enjoy live music, classic cocktails, and seasonal delights at the Rock Garden Bistro while embracing the snowy landscape. Details
2026 dates TBA
Thursdays to Saturdays, February 13 – March 22, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Royal Botanical Gardens, 1185 York Blvd
Shad: Start Anew Tour
Shad (Shadrach Kabango) is a Canadian rapper of Rwandan descent. He is known for blending humour with weighty themes, exploring a range of topics and sounds over the course of his 20-year career. Shad has carved out a distinctive voice in hip-hop, expertly crafting rhymes that tackle themes ranging from identity and faith to politics and personal struggle, all while experimenting with a diverse range of sounds and styles. A critically acclaimed artist, Shad has earned a number of prestigious accolades. This is a performance you won’t want to miss! Details
Febraury 7, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Bridgeworks, 200 Caroline St N, Hamilton
Hamilton Winterfest
Hamilton Winterfest gives you every excuse to get out of the house to connect with your community with more than 60 events across the city from pancake breakfasts to art exhibitions, concerts to sporting events. Details
2026 dates TBA
February 1 – 17, 2025
Various locations, Hamilton
Mozart’s Don Giovanni
One of Mozart’s masterpieces, Don Giovanni combines comedy and tragedy in the retelling of the Don Juan legend. The HPO is thrilled to collaborate with COSA (Centre for Opera Studies & Appreciation) on sharing the magic of opera with Hamilton. Details
February 7, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St E, Ancaster
Bloomland Enchanted Tea
Follow the yellow brick road… to tea time! Complement your visit to Bloomland in Oz with a reservation at the Turner Pavilion Tea House in Hendrie Park. Details
Wednesdays to Sundays, February 4 to April 5, 2026
Hendrie Park, 680 Plains Rd W., Burlington
Brit Floyd
This monumental new production celebrates two of the most iconic and influential albums in rock history — Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall — with a breathtaking show that captures the spirit, sound, and spectacle of the legendary band. Details
Febraury 9, 2026 | 8:00 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
Valentine’s Day with the HPO and Dwayne Gretzky
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the HPO and Dwayne Gretzky performing your favourite hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s with conductor Lucas Waldin! Enjoy electrifying renditions of familiar favourites by “Canada’s Greatest party band” with full orchestral sound in a dynamic celebration of the songs we all forgot we loved. Details
February 14, 2026 | 7:30 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
The 45th Annual Music Hall
Venture out to the most entertaining, comedic, and wildly outstanding annual variety comedy musical this side of the pond. Details
February 13 to March 8, 2026
Drury Lane Theatre, 2269 New St. Burlington
Disney’s Alice in Wonderland JR
Follow Alice as she journeys through the colourful world of Wonderland, meeting unforgettable characters like the White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, and more. With favorite songs like “Alice in Wonderland”, “The Golden Afternoon” and “The Unbirthday Song”, plus exciting new music, this show is full of energy, laughter, and imagination. Details
January 30 – February 1, 2026
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson St East, Ancaster
Janina Fialkowska’s 75th Anniversary Tour
Classical music icon Janina Fialkowska will perform in Hamilton as part of her celebratory 75th anniversary tour. Details
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts, 126 James St S, Hamilton
Because Brrr Craft Beer Sessions
Celebrate great local craft beer and cider! Sample craft beverage vendors, enjoy delicious food, a free retro arcade, and live music acts in a sessions format. Details
February 27 – 28, 2026
Bridgeworks, 200 Caroline St. N., Hamilton
Hamilton I❤︎BEER & Taco Festival
Enjoy two fun filled days or nights of beer, cider and spirits sampling, games, dancing and tacos! Details
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
The Yacht Rock Show
The Yacht Rock Show Canada is an authentic tribute to the 70s & 80s Classic Smooth Rock Era that defined a generation. Experience an unforgettable musical voyage at this Yacht Rock party. Details
March 6, 2026 | 8:00 PM
The Studio, 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton
Sloan
Sloan is a Toronto-based rock band from Halifax, Nova Scotia who first performed in spring of 1991. Comprised of bassist and vocalist Chris Murphy, guitarists/vocalists Jay Ferguson and Patrick Pentland, and drummer/vocalist Andrew Scott, the quartet possessed a rare chemistry from the start. Don’t miss this special evening of music! Details
March 12, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Bridgeworks, 200 Caroline St N, Hamilton
Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
In this a-MEOW-zing show, Gabby unboxes a special acorn that needs the magical touch of a rainbow to grow. But when CatRat causes a colour cat-astrophe and breaks the rainbow, Gabby and the Gabby Cats must find the colors again to set things right. Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart brings to life an original story featuring incredible puppets, dynamic staging, and songs that will have audiences singing and dancing along, from beginning to end. Details
March 3, 2026 | 6:00 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express
Detective Hercule Poirot is aboard the Orient Express when an unlikeable wealthy American is murdered. With his unparalleled eye for detail and keen instincts, Poirot uncovers secrets and motives as he seeks the truth behind the murder in this suspenseful tale of deception, revenge and justice. Details
March 4 – 21, 2026
Theatre Aquarius, 190 King William Street, Hamilton
Shen Yun
The gong resounds, the curtain opens, and fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. Dynasties rise and fall—as ancient legends of love, loss, humor and valor unfold before your eyes. We set out to create a performance so extraordinary, it would not only capture the grandeur of China’s ancient, divinely-inspired culture… You just might catch a glimpse of heaven. Don’t miss it!! Details
March 12, 2026 | 7:30 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
HeritageCon 18
Don’t miss the opportunity to attend HeritageCon, Canada’s premier plastic scale model competition and sales event, where you can admire exceptional model displays while immersing yourself in rich historical context within a hangar surrounded by iconic Canadian aircraft, including the rare Mynarski Memorial Lancaster bomber, one of only two currently in flight. Details
March 29, 2026 | 9 AM – 5 PM
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope
The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight
Prepare for a spellbinding 90-minute spectacle that infuses iconic Rock & Metal anthems with a hauntingly beautiful energy when it comes to FirstOntario Concert Hall on March 16, 2026. Details
March 16, 2026 | 8:00 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
Dancing Through Life
Enjoy the elegance and energy of your HPO performing dance-inspired music! Canadian violinist Susanne Hou melds dazzling technique with gorgeous tone in Saint-Saëns’ fiery, Spanish-inflected Introduction et Rondo Capriccioso, while Philippe Hersant’s Rondes de Nuit evokes the bustling nightlife of Madrid, past and present. Details
March 21, 2026 | Doors 6:00 PM
FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton
For more events & activities, see: Things to Do This Weekend in Hamilton
Outdoor Adventures
FYI: All outdoor activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing are weather-dependent and are not available during warm winters.
Explore Cootes Paradise
If you haven’t visited Cootes Paradise in winter, add it to the list! This is Royal Botanical Garden’s largest sanctuary and one of the most significant wetland on this part of Lake Ontario.
Go Tobogganing
The Chedoke Golf Course at 563 Aberdeen Avenue has one of Hamilton’s four designated tobogganing hills. Grab your sled and your warmest pair of boots and head to this hill. You’ll have hours of fun at this hill!
Another of Hamilton’s designated tobogganing areas, the hill at King’s Golf Course is a great place to spend some time sledding with friends or family. You’ll find the hill at the 9th hole in front of the 9th green. You can also toboggan downhill at the city’s old reservoir, the Garth and Stonechurch Reservoir. Plus, you’ll get in some exercise as you hike back up the hill. Not only is the Waterdown Memorial Park a great place for a walk, but you can also for tobogganing! You’ll find Waterdown Memorial Park’s hill just west of baseball diamond #3.
Visit Tew Falls
Did you know that Hamilton is known as the “Waterfall Capital of the World?” One of these waterfalls is Tew Falls. Spend some time exploring the beautiful falls which are just as stunning in the winter.
Address: 581 Harvest Rd.
You might like: 25 Waterfalls to Visit Near Toronto
Go Ice Climbing
Come winter ice climbers can head to Tiffany Falls to enjoy ice climbing (weather permitting). Climbers must be members of the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC), or be attending an ice climbing class with OneAxe Pursuits.
Tourism Hamilton
Explore Felker’s Falls
Located in an eastern subdivision in Hamilton, Felker’s Falls is one of the area’s many waterfalls. Pack your camera to take pictures of the frozen water, and remember to keep an eye out for the area’s wildlife. And don’t forget to dress warm!
Address: Ackland St.
Winter Walking at Waterdown Memorial Park
This lovely park is a great place to go for a walk—yes, even on a winter’s day! Visit the park’s many paths to enjoy a peaceful winter’s afternoon. With the sun setting earlier this time of year, there will also be lots of opportunities to catch a sunset.
Another play to enjoy a walk is the King’s Forest Golf Club which has a 2.5 km winter walking trail. Nordic walking poles and snowshoes can be rented for 2 hours on a first-come, first-served basis.
Address: 200 Hamilton St.
Snowshoe at Dundas Valley Conservation Area
Snowshoeing may not be as easy as walking. But it’s a great way to enjoy wintertime and explore the trails. There are a number of trails you can choose from – Headwaters Trail, Dundas Valley Lookout Trail, Sawmill Trail, Heritage Trail, Vista Trail, and others
You might like: 25 Must-Visit Nature Attractions and Parks in Hamilton
Visit Little Davis Falls
Little Davis Falls is by no means the largest waterfall in Hamilton, standing only 10 feet tall. It does, however, flow year-round. This means you’ll get to witness its true beauty even in the winter!
Address: Ackland St.
Go Skating
Who doesn’t love a good outdoor rink? If you feel like getting your skate on, drive down to Dundas Driving Park, where they maintain an outdoor rink in the winter. You’ll have hours of fun skating in this park!
Drop-in skating programs are offered at various City Arenas throughout the season. The City’s outdoor ice rinks are also open daily for free drop-in skating until 10 p.m. at Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre – Serafini Family Ice Pad, Dundas Driving Park, Freelton Community Park, and Waterdown Memorial Park. Community city rinks will also be open until 10 p.m. as weather permits.
Pier 8 is also a great spot for ice skating in the city. If you don’t have your skates, don’t worry! You can rent a pair here once you arrive.
Tourism Hamilton
Take A Walk Along the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail
These hiking trails span a significant portion of the Great Lakes on the Ontario shores. And luckily for those living in or visiting Hamilton, part of the trail is within the city! Enjoy the lake views which are still beautiful in the winter.
Explore the Escarpment Rail Trail
Grab your hiking boots or your snowshoes and head to the Escarpment Rail Trail. This multi-use trail is great for any kind of activity, whether you feel like walking, fat biking, or snowshoeing. It also provides you with a great opportunity to escape the business of the city!
Climb the Wentworth Stairs
Hamilton has 5 sets of stairs that connect the lower parts of the city to the mountain. The Wentworth stairs are one of the oldest sets, as well as the tallest. Climb up the 498 steps that make up the stairs—just watch for ice!
Address: Wentworth St.
Confederation Beach Park
Although this is a hot spot in the summer, there are still fun things to do at Confederation Beach Park in the winter. Explore the lakeside, and look out across the wintery shores of Lake Ontario. You’ll find it’s beautiful no matter the season!
Address: 585 Van Wagners Beach Rd.
Conservation Hamilton
Winter Camping
Want to try camping out in winter? Valens Lake has a number of campsites that are available for winter camping. Contact the Valens Park for their winter camping program or try the nightly off-season camping.
Check out Hamilton’s Street Art
Hamilton is a city full of wonders—and that goes for their art! Explore the more urban parts of the city by searching for all the public art. You’ll be amazed by all the beautiful murals throughout the city!
Visit Bruce Trail
Escape the business of the city and explore Hamilton’s portion of the historic Bruce Trail. Located on the Niagara escarpment, this beautifully kept and maintained trail is great even in the winter. You’ll have a whole new appreciation for the city when you visit this trail!
You might like: 25 of the Best Hiking Trails in Hamilton
Go Geocaching
Geocaching is a great activity to do either by yourself or with a friend! Hamilton has tons of geocaching opportunities, so check out the geocaching trails and see what you can find. At the very least, you’ll go on a fun adventure!
Winter at Westfield Heritage Village
The grounds at Westfield Heritage Village is a great place to enjoy walking, especially during the winter season. Historical buildings set in snowy winter wonderland make for stunning photos.
Address: 1049 Kirkwall Road Hamilton
Westfield Heritage Village
Bring Your Dog to Heritage Green
Looking to exercise your pooch this winter? Head to Heritage Green! This park has an area for dogs, where your pup will be able to romp and play!
Address: 447 1st Rd. W
Play Winter Golf
Want to go golfing in winter? Check out Chedoke Gold Club- Martin Course. It offers winter golf from December 1, 2025 to March 8, 2026.
Address: Chedoke Golf Club – Martin Course, Aberdeen Avenue, Hamilton
Climb the Chedoke Stairs
If you really want to get in some exercise, visit one of Hamilton’s set of escarpment stairs. The Chedoke Stairs are made up of 280 steps, a great way to challenge your endurance. And don’t worry—going down is easier than going up!
Address: Chedoke Park
Try your hand at Disc Golf
A championship-level 18-hole disc golf course is offered at King’s Forest Golf Club from December 1, 2025 to March 8, 2026. You can rent or buy the equipment onsite.
Address: Kings Forest Golf Club, 100 Greenhill Ave, Hamilton
Explore the Festive Lights
Spend some time walking through the city’s urban centre to check out the holiday lights. This is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit! Plus, you’ll be getting some exercise in if you go on foot.
Check out Albion Falls
One of Hamilton’s many waterfalls, Albion falls is stunning in the winter. Head to the south access to get to the viewing platform and take in the beauty of the falls. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Address: 885 Mountain Brow Blvd.
Gage Park Tropical Greenhouse
Gage Park Tropical Greenhouse is a fully accessible 14,000 square-foot facility housing subtropical plants, palm trees, exotic fruit trees, rare species, and serene water features, providing an educational and enchanting winter escape.
Address: 1000 Main St E, Hamilton
You might like: 50 Nature Attractions & Hotspots in and around GTA
Visit Hamilton’s Downtown Area
Check out the city’s urban centre. With a healthy mix of historic buildings and new businesses, you’ll find a little bit of everything in Hamilton’s downtown! There are also plenty of places to stop by for some shopping or grab something to eat or drink.
