It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season has officially begun, which means Christmas markets and festivals are here to get your spirits high for the long-awaited celebration. Hamilton takes Christmas preparations seriously. The beautiful city comes to life as a winter wonderland. Whether you are coming here with your family or friends, you’ll find plenty of festive things to do. Let’s take a look at how to celebrate the holidays in Hamilton.
Celebrating Christmas in Hamilton
Christmas is a magical time in Hamilton. Decorated trees fill the city. The aroma of freshly baked goods and mulled wine flows through the colourfully-decorated streets. While it can be less snowy than in other nearby cities, Hamilton usually gets its fair share of snowflakes in December, which makes it look like a true winter wonderland. Hopefully, this year will be no exception! Here is a list of some of the best holiday events to look forward to this month.
Fun with the Whole Crew: Family Solstice Celebration at RBG Arboretum
The holidays are all about spending quality time with the family. One of the best opportunities for doing just that is The Family Solstice Celebration. Within the event, you’ll have the chance to go hiking, enjoy botanical arts and share exciting stories by a bonfire. Nature plus family fun–what could be better? The event will take place on December 18th between 6PM to 8 PM.
Shop at ChristmasFest Vendor Market and Open House
Each year, we promise ourselves we’ll do Christmas shopping in advance, but the plan somehow always manages to fail. If you are looking for fantastic Christmas gifts to treat your loved ones with, head to the ChristmasFest Vendor Market and Open House on December 18th. Meet Santa, dance to the festive tunes and tick off your shopping list.
Watch a Santa Claus Parade
During December, many Santa Claus parades will occur in the vibrant city. Whether you decide to join the 64th Annual Stoney Creek Santa Parade (on December 3) or the annual Binbrook Santa Claus Parade (on December 10th), you are sure to get a festive feeling!
Relive Victorian Christmas
Plenty of exciting events will also be held in historical parts of the city. For example, on December 2nd, you can experience the fantastic Christmas celebrations at Dundurn National Historic Site. There, you’ll learn more about mid-19th-century traditions and see the stunning castle decorated with cedar boughs, ribbons, and dried flowers.
Enjoy Brantford Lights at Glenhyrst
Until the first of January, head to Glenhyrst Art Gallery to see how thousands and thousands of Christmas lights can transform the majestic gardens into a holiday paradise. If you haven’t yet decorated your own home, perhaps you’ll get the inspiration to do it!
Relax at Beer Gardens
While Hamilton is known to be the ultimate family-friendly destination, numerous festive events are available for younger folks too. During December, many of the city’s beer gardens will host exciting happenings. For example, on December 17, you can visit Corktown Irish Pub to have ‘A Boozetown Christmas’. The infamous live 2000s night has returned to the city!
Hamilton is a wonderful place to be all year round, but Christmas makes it even more magical. If you decide to visit one of these fantastic events, you are sure to get into the Christmas spirit. Follow our blog to keep up with the latest happenings in Steel City.