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CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE

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The holiday season is coming to downtown Oakville offering plenty of ways to celebrate this magical time of year. Don’t let the cold temperatures deter you from joining the cheerful bustle through November and December. Bundle up, grab a hot beverage at a charming cafe, and take in the festive décor, activities and vibes of this charming downtown. 

Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday officially kicks off on November 17 and runs to December 23. As with previous years, it will not disappoint. “The streetscape in downtown will be fully decked out in beautiful holiday décor, including our stunning 30-foot Christmas tree in Towne Square and a Winter Wonderland of Lights in Centennial Square,” says Adrienne Gordon, Director of Downtown Oakville BIA. 

Expect abundant opportunities to snap the perfect holiday photo, from the Santa cottage to the gingerbread house of lights to horse-drawn carriage rides. It’s also an ideal time to peruse local stores for the perfect gifts to put under the tree. Unique shops offer one-of-a-kind items you won’t easily find anywhere else, from artwork to clothing, home décor to kitchen wares. 

Once you’re all shopped out, no need to rush home. Stay to relax and enjoy a drink and nibbles. Downtown Oakville is home to an array of top notch restaurants, from fine dining to casual fare, and caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. 

Mark your calendar so you don’t miss the magical experience of Hometown Holiday. Here’s what’s happening: 

Light up the Night
November 17, 5 – 9 p.m.

Take a stroll and enjoy downtown Oakville’s spectacular holiday lighting including the 30-foot tall natural tree.  This night marks the first time they ‘Light up the Night’ and everyone can celebrate with live entertainment in Towne Square featuring the return of the CW Carolling Champions, The Sugar Plums. 

You can also take a horse and carriage ride around historic downtown, and stop by to visit Santa at his cabin. Don’t forget to pack some shopping bags – participating stores will stay open late to kick start your holiday shopping.

Santa returns every Saturday in the Winter Wonderland, along with carriage rides and hot chocolate in Towne Square.  

Rock’n Around the Tree – Holiday Silent Disco
November 25, 7 p.m.

The Silent Disco night is back by popular demand so grab your friends to kick off the holidays with some groove! Dive into a spirited 60-minute journey filled with singing, dancing and the most iconic Christmas tunes. Arrive early to secure your headsets and gear up to rock around the festive tree.  The event is free but be sure to secure your tickets in advance. 

Visit Oakvilledowntown.com and @oakvilledowntown to find out more.

Wuxley
Wuxley parkas have been keeping people warm since 2015. Ethically manufactured in Canada, they’re animal-free and made with recycled materials. Visit the new store to check out the variety of stylish, high quality winter outerwear to keep you cozy in the coldest temps. The B Corp Certified brand champions Canadian craftsmanship while harming zero animals. 
294 Lakeshore Road East  |  wuxly.com

State and Liberty
Shop here for the perfect dress shirts for athletes. By providing more room in the upper body with an extremely tailored waist, its dress shirts cater to those with a V-shape body type and are made with performance fabric. The store features the brand’s full collection, including top selling products such as athletic fit dress shirts and stretch suits.
181 Lakeshore Road East  |  stateandliberty.com

The Latest Scoop
The Latest Scoop is a lifestyle concept store full of pretty things for you and your home: fashion, home décor, accessories, furniture, stationery, giftware and much more. You’re encouraged to lose yourself in the sense of discovery, have fun, laugh, connect and most importantly, fall in love with your wardrobe and your home. 
225 Lakeshore Road East  |  thelatestscoop.ca

Maverick’s Donuts
Indulge your sweet tooth with a treat from this new Canadian donut brand that offers a variety of flavours and collections including: Classic, Signature, Fritters, Minimavs and vegan (the fritters are highly sought after!) Everything is made fresh in-house daily. You can also order custom donuts for special events, like anniversaries and birthdays. 
152 Lakeshore Road East  | mavericksdonuts.com/oakville 

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BOARD GAME NIGHT: Move over Monopoly, the newest board games up the strategy and fun for winter nights

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With shorter days and longer nights, board games are a great way to gather with family or friends for an affordable and fun evening’s entertainment.

While board games have always been popular, Megan Edmonds, co-owner of The Bard and The Bear Games Cafe in Hamilton, believes there’s an even greater appetite for human connection, post-pandemic. “Board games are a great way to connect in-person and take screens out of the equation,” she says. 

Kevin Bileski has been part of a bi-weekly games night in Burlington with the same group of friends for six years. “Playing board games is a great way to come together,” he says. “It’s a Sunday afternoon alternative where the only thing on the table are chips and chocolate.” 


Okay, but which board game do you choose?

If you’ve moved on from collecting $200 every time you pass Go in Monopoly, fear not. There’s a slew of new games to re-invigorate your next board game night! 

For families with young children

Orchard: Edmonds says co-operative games, like Orchard, are a great way to introduce board games to young kids without someone winning or getting upset. 

Drop It: Similar to the classic Connect Four, players strategically drop pieces into the stand to land them as high as possible without touching anything of the same shape or colour.

Catan Junior: Children ages six and up slip into the role of pirates who build their hideouts – called pirates’ lairs – on islands and set sail to find new places to build more pirates’ lairs.

For building your games collection 

Klask: A popular option for hockey fans – Edmonds like to call it the love child of air hockey and fridge magnets. This two-player game is very similar to air hockey in play, but uses magnets to move the pieces and create hazards.

Bohnanza: One of Edmonds’ favourite sleeper hits is this German card game where you harvest beans. More exciting than it sounds, Bohnanza is great for a large group of friends as every player gets to trade on each turn.

Pandemic: This older game has had a resurgence in popularity. Bileski likes it because all the players must work together as disease-fighting specialists on a mission to keep four deadly diseases at bay. 

For strategic thinkers 

Scout: This card game about making sets and runs seems simple but actually requires a lot of strategy making it a hit among folks who normally play heavy strategy board games. 

Ticket to Ride: This cross-country train adventure board game challenges players to constantly monitor the board state, which cards they need, and what their opponents are up to.

Carcassonne: Inspired by the medieval fortress in southern France of the same name, Carcassonne is a tile-laying game where players need to strategically fill in the countryside around the fortified city. 

Kulami: A two-player game with simple rules that’s easy to learn and quick to play, it encourages you to replay it again and again as you develop more complex strategies. 

5 PLACES TO GET YOUR GAME ON

Torchlight Games and Hobbies
4033 New Street, Burlington
torchlightgh.com

Lords of War Games & Hobbies
124 Kerr Street, Oakville
lordsofwargames.com

The Bard and Bear Games Cafe
237 James Street North, Hamilton
thebardandbear.com

Mastermind Toys
1011 Upper Middle Road East, Oakville
1035 Brant Street, Burlington
mastermindtoys.com

Enter the Battlefield
2172 Speers Road, Oakville
etboakville.com

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APPRECIATING ART IS FOR EVERYONE: Visit Local Art Galleries for Inspiration and Joy this Season

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I purchased my first original oil painting about 20 years ago. I felt equal parts sophisticated and reckless at the time. The act of confidently selecting and buying an original seemed a sophisticated step into refined living, but the impulsive extravagance of the act was at odds with my uber-practical side. 

I clearly found a way to reconcile the two and was soon emboldened to collect more originals over the years that followed – from a local art show, a door-to-door salesperson, eBay (yes, eBay), an outdoor market in Hong Kong and a local art gallery, to name a few. While there are infinite ways to analyze, judge and value a work of art, for me, it all came down to one simple determinant: did it bring me joy when I looked at it? 

Once I’d accepted the notion that art is whatever you decide it to be, any limitations on how or where I should source my next work of art evaporated. For non-aficionados of art like me, this is the essence of appreciating art.  

Selecting a piece of art is subjective, says Claudia Pettigrew, director of Summer & Grace Gallery in downtown Oakville. “Most people think they either like or don’t like a work of art. They can see the value in it, or not.” In other words, you’re free to enjoy art any way you wish, and you don’t need to be in the market to buy an original to frequent your local art gallery.

In fact, Pettigrew encourages everyone to come to the gallery as often as possible. “Nine times out of 10 times they don’t buy anything, but it plants a seed,” she says. Over time, you naturally build a preference or “taste” for what you like and when it’s time to start collecting, you’ll be ready. 

In the age of home décor savvy and matching colour palettes, it may seem counter-intuitive to leave such concerns out when selecting artwork for your space. “I tend to say if you love a piece and you love an artist, it will fit anywhere,” says Pettigrew. If you do plan to add an original to your home, think about making space for the art, rather than finding art to match the space. You can always buy a throw pillow or blanket to help tie in the colours of your room.  

If you’re already a collector of art, want to develop a personal taste for it, or simply enjoy looking at local art, Oakville and Burlington are home to many art galleries and museums. Drop in while you’re out and about, or grab a friend and lead your own art tour one cold November afternoon. You can also plan ahead by checking their websites for upcoming exhibitions. 

Oakville Galleries
This not-for-profit contemporary art museum has two locations: Centennial Square (next to the Oakville Public Library’s Central branch), and Gairloch Gardens (in a lakeside mansion and park). It has over 1,100 works of art in its collection , most are in storage or on loan – and includes works in painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, film and other media. The current exhibition at Centennial Square is called Leisure; Gairloch Gardens presents Eviction Notice. 
oakvillegalleries.com

Summer & Grace Gallery
This bright gallery space in downtown Oakville represents emerging and established Canadian artists. It boasts two floors of original works with new artists and exhibitions added regularly. November 24 to December 24 is Joy II: Holiday Small Show, featuring works sized 16”x16″ or smaller, with every piece priced at $600 or less.
summergracegallery.com

Towne Square Gallery
Located in downtown Oakville’s Towne Square, it has an exceptional collection of original works of art by Canadian and international artists. Regular exhibitions highlight artists in a friendly atmosphere on two floors of a modern interior to make buying art enjoyable and an enlightening experience. Currently featuring an exhibition by Susanne Wallis, Land | Water | Sky. 
townesquaregallery.com

Native Art Gallery
Also located in Towne Square, the gallery promotes and sells artwork by Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. It has a collection of authentic Canadian sculpture, prints, wall hangings and more produced by Inuit and First Nations’ artists. The gallery believes Indigenous Canadian art inherently conveys the natural wonder and rich history of Canada through the beauty of the animals, spirits and legends represented through their work. 
nativeartgallery.ca

ARTSPACE 
This contemporary art gallery is housed in a century home in downtown Oakville. An unintimidating gallery, it welcomes both the first-time art buyer, as well as the veteran collector, offering assistance, guidance and inspiration in building your collection. 
@ARTSPACEOakville    

Prometheus Art Gallery
This international private gallery in downtown Oakville focuses on contemporary art, especially print making and mixed media. As a trusted partner of collectors and art lovers, it is committed to building a bridge between the public and artists, striving to provide a better stage for more young artists to express themselves. 
prometheusgallery.net

Rumi Galleries
Located in Kerr Village (and Toronto), the gallery’s focus is Canadian, American and British artists of the 20th century and contemporary artists of different generations. By appointment only. 
rumigalleries.com

NESAART
This studio/gallery in Burlington is housed in the artist’s home where customers can visit by booking an appointment. His work is contemporary abstract landscape and cityscape paintings with extended treatment of textural surfaces.
NesAart.com

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CROCKPOTS: Making Dinners Easy and Delicious for Busy Families

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Busy fall schedules can make for frantic dinner making, or worse, takeout, which can hurt both your budget and waistline. While new kitchen innovations abound, an old school favourite remains a top contender for making delicious dinners with minimal fuss. If you find yourself sacrificing nutrition for convenience when feeding hungry family members, you may want to add a slow cooker to your cuisine repertoire. 

The trick is to front-load your efforts. Move your dinner prep to the morning, then let the crockpot slowly cook through the day. By dinner time, just dish it out and serve. Ideal for the winter, the crockpot is best known for making favourite comfort foods –  think stews, hearty chili and soups –  as well as Sunday dinner dishes like meatballs and tender roasts that simmer all day long, filling your home with a rich and savoury aroma.  

Budget-friendly dinners
As far as kitchen gadgets go, crockpots are relatively inexpensive to purchase and last for decades. They’re also a great way to stretch your ingredients and get the most out of your grocery budget. Rather than spending four dollars on prepared chicken broth, use the bones from your leftover roast chicken. Place the bones in your crockpot, cover with water (about 2 inches above the bones), add an onion and carrot for flavour, and you’ll have a delicious chicken broth eight hours later. Slow cooking methods are also ideal for cheaper cuts of meat, which can translate into big savings over the long term.

Easy to use
Crockpots are designed to make life easier for busy families, and are essentially fool-proof. They use low heat to cook food over a long period, so all you need to do is toss the ingredients into the pot in the morning, turn it on, and let it do the work. When dinner time arrives, a fully cooked delicious meal is ready to put on the table. An extra benefit is you’re free from the nagging question: what will I make?  

Variety of menu options
There’s no shortage of crockpot recipes. From family staples, like meatballs and shepherd’s pie to lasagna and hearty soups, slow cookers can be tasked with almost any type of meal. Did you know you can even make cheesecake in a crockpot? You can also now purchase pre-packaged slow cooker meals from most grocery stores that cut your prep time.

Choosing the right crockpot
Crockpots (or slow cookers) are easy to shop for because the features don’t vary much. The main difference, according to Carol Lacher, owner of Nicetys in Oakville, is the size. Crockpots generally come in two sizes, 6-quart or 3.5-quart. Lacher advises customers to consider how many people are in their family, as well as the type of meals they plan to make in the crockpot. “If you are only two or three people, do you want to have leftover chili for the next eight meals?” she says. A 3.5-quart crockpot makes up to six servings and is ideal for a small family or household. For larger families, or those who appreciate leftovers (isn’t defrosting even easier than slow cooking?), the larger size is probably a safer bet. 

Local Links

Nicetys, Downtown Oakville
shop.nicetys.com

Casual Gourmet, Hamilton
casualgourmet.ca

Thinkkitchen (Stokes), Mapleview Mall, Burlington
stokesstores.com

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SLEEP TIGHT, SLEEP RIGHT: Strategies to Elevate Your Sleep Quality

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Randy Gardner holds the Guinness World Record for staying awake for an astounding 11 days and 25 minutes. There have been even longer stints since setting his record in 1964. However, Guinness Book no longer monitors records for the longest time awake because the challenge is just too dangerous. 

As a busy mom who struggles with bouts of insomnia, I can understand why. After just a few nights of tossing and turning, I become lethargic, irritable, easily confused, and I struggle to finish a simple thoug…

Getting a solid night’s sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Insufficient sleep takes a toll on our physical, mental and emotional well-being. And, it appears sleeplessness is on the rise, especially among our youth. 

For the little ones and the not-so-little ones (we’re looking at you, teenagers), sleep is like the secret sauce for growth, learning and memory consolidation. 

In adulthood, sleep still plays a pivotal role in regulating mood, maintaining cognitive abilities and supporting overall health. As we age, quality sleep remains vital for restorative functions like tissue repair and strengthening our immune system.

So yeah, sleep is kind of a big deal.

How do we go from counting sheep to catching some sweet REMs? According to sleep expert Alanna McGuinn, “Improving your sleep begins with establishing a pre-sleep routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down.”

 The allure of smartphones, tablets and laptops has led to a sleep-disrupting phenomenon. The blue light emitted by these devices suppresses melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. So, give your tech gadgets a curfew of at least one hour before bedtime. Also, monitor what you are consuming right before you go to sleep. If there are social media accounts or TV shows (including the news) that heighten your feelings of stress, avoid them before bedtime.

  As enjoyable as it is to Netflix and nibble, late-night snacking can stimulate your digestive system and make it harder to sleep. Try to finish eating and drinking at least 3-4 hours before bed to give your body ample time to digest.

  A warm bath helps lower your body temperature, which is essential for falling asleep. Add some calming lavender or bath salts for an extra touch of relaxation. 

  A slightly cooler room (around 18-20°C) is generally the Goldilocks zone for slumber.

  Lower the lighting in your environment as you approach bedtime. This signals your body to prepare for sleep and naturally start to release melatonin, our sleep hormone. Invest in proper window coverings that block out light to create a darker sleeping space.

  Listening to soothing music or a podcast with a calming narrative can help you relax and distract your mind from racing thoughts. Set a timer to turn them off automatically. 

  While sleep apps can be handy, don’t get too obsessed with hitting a specific number of hours or sleep stages. Use sleep trackers periodically to spot trends and make adjustments to your sleep routine.

A great night’s sleep might feel like chasing a unicorn, but don’t give up hope. Tweak your pre-sleep routine with these tips, and you’ll find yourself drooling into your pillow in no time.  

Good night and sweet dreams! 

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GEORGE BROCK CHISHOLM: The First World War Veteran from Oakville Championed a Compassionate Approach to Mental Health Care

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At this time of year, as we remember the great sacrifices and service of the men and women of our armed forces, George Brock Chisholm gives us an outstanding example of how a wartime experience, though harrowing, can spur an individual to do great good. Born on May 18, 1896, in Oakville, Ontario, he would serve many roles during his life, from dedicated soldier to contrarian children’s mental health advocate to visionary statesman.

Enlisting as a private with the 48th Highlanders at the age of 19, the young Chisholm served valiantly during World War I, experiencing firsthand the horrors of warfare. Badly injured in the line of duty, he was awarded the Military Cross and Bar (his medals are held at Oakville Museum). His profound wartime experience propelled him towards a career devoted to peace, mental health and the betterment of society. Between the wars, Chisholm went to university, studied medicine and specialized in psychiatry, a choice that was likely informed by his own experience with shell shock – what we now call post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Serving through World War II, Chisholm rose to the position of Director General of Medical Services and by the end of the war held the rank of Major General. 

Following his key role in the war effort, Chisholm’s most significant contribution post-war was his role as the first Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) from 1948 to 1953. During his tenure, he championed the notion that mental health is a fundamental human right, challenging the prevailing stigma associated with mental illness. His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to mental health care worldwide.

Chisholm’s impact extended far beyond his role at WHO. In his work with a number of Canadian mental health organizations, he spearheaded efforts to improve mental health services and promote understanding and acceptance of mental illness in Canada. His visionary leadership and tireless advocacy resulted in the establishment of psychiatric clinics, rehabilitation centres and community-based programs that continue to benefit countless individuals today. 

The life and legacy of George Brock Chisholm serve as a testament to the transformative power of individuals who have the conviction to follow their own compass. His unwavering dedication to improving mental health, advocating for peace and championing human rights continue to inspire generations of individuals to strive for a more compassionate and just world.

Having experienced war personally as a soldier in the First World War and later as a medical administrator in the Second World War, Chisholm was well aware of the destructive and merciless nature of war, having witnessed it from the perspectives of both a common soldier and a high-ranking officer. He helped to establish and subsequently led one of the most long-lasting and beneficial international organizations in history. He firmly believed in the potential of enlightened international collaboration and played a pivotal role in making it a reality in the field of global health care. 

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New Businesses in Oakville and Burlington!

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Look Local invites you to support these businesses which have recently expanded or opened in our community! Check them out and pay them a visit!

Sandwich Station
399 Elizabeth Street, Burlington
www.sandwichstation.ca 

Newly opened in Downtown Burlington, Sandwich Station prides itself on being the premier destination for fresh wraps and submarine sandwiches in the area.  They take great pride in serving customers with the finest ingredients, carefully crafted into mouth-watering creations that will satisfy your cravings.

The team at Sandwich Station use the freshest locally-sourced produce, premium deli meats and bread to ensure that every bite is a flavourful experience.  They put their passion for food into every creation, and offer a wide range of options to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.

Blk Swan Kitchen Hub
380 Brant Street, Burlington
www.blkswan.ca 

With the success of their pubs in North Burlington and West Oakville, expanding to a new location on Brant Street in Downtown Burlington seemed a natural fit.  You can expect to find delicious classic pub grub served with flair, their famous chicken wings, or choose to build your own burger!  The drinks menu is as interesting as the food, with a great selection of brews on tap, plus some wicked looking cocktails and martinis.

The fun doesn’t end there at Blk Swan.  Ther is live music on Friday and Saturday nights, trivia night on Wednesdays, and live music plus $6 caesars on the patio all afternoon on Sundays! 

Bambino Fine Shoes
315 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
www.bambinofineshoes.com

This family-owned business is excited to expand from their existing store in Bloor West Village to Downtown Oakville.  They offer well-crafted children’s footwear that not only aims to meet every parent’s expectations, but also provides every growing child with an opportunity to express themselves.  Quality is the driving force behind what makes their store different, with brands that are manufactured ethically while providing the best possible materials and construction for our children.

The new store is sure to make an impact on Lakeshore Road – including a new permanent indoor ball pit!  The owners invite parents to come and explore socially-conscious European footwear styles with foot development education at the forefront.

Maison Apothecare
1173 North Service Road West, Unit D3, Oakville
www.maisonapothecare.ca 

Maison Apothecare has announced the opening of their newly designed shop at the front of their manufacturing facility.  Maison Apothecare is a plant-based manufacturer of skincare and cleaning products, founded by Natacha Rey in 2010.  With their products getting shipped all over the world, Maison Apothecare is a hidden gem filled with healthy products for the whole family, making it the perfect gift destination for everyone on your list.  

One of their customers says it best: “Visiting Maison Apothecare is like stepping into a little shop in Paris, delighting all the senses.  It smells incredible and there’s so much to look at.  When driving through Oakville we always make a point of stopping in to stock up on our favourites!”

This holiday season, be sure to check out Maison Apothecare’s new botanical immersive experience, with sampling and smelling stations throughout
the shop.

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TASTY TACOS: The Best Tacos in Oakville and Burlington

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There’s a reason tacos are so popular; they’re easy to make, versatile, delicious and fun to eat. 

Originating in Mexico, tacos are a staple in Latin American cuisine, but they have since become an international superstar meal and a favourite North American comfort food. Simple, portable and cheap, tacos were an ideal street food throughout Latin America and were first introduced to North America in the early 1900s by Mexican migrant workers. 

familia

The simple tortilla can be packed with any kind of meat, seafood or bean base and topped with a variety of seasonings, vegetables and flavours to tickle your taste buds. They’re also a cinch to cook at home and make the perfect hand-held meal for gatherings. 

Tacos have come a long way from their street vendor days and can now be found practically everywhere – from street carts and food trucks to fine dining restaurants. It’s no wonder there’s a hashtag dedicated to this tasty Mexican favourite.  

For busy families, heading out for tacos midweek can be a welcome break from the usual routine. Lucky for us, there are plenty of options. We’ve rounded up the top local spots for your next #tacotuesday. 

Familia Fine Foods, Burlington 

Owned by Colombia natives Juliana and Luis, this family owned restaurant serves up go-to Latin meals including – you guessed it – tacos! Familia serves chicken, beef, pork or vegetarian tacos from their restaurant, or you can order their famous taco bar for larger gatherings. The taco bar includes two or three meat options, soft corn tortillas, tostadas and corn chips, fresh cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, beans, pickled onions, spicy Latin dip, tomatillo sauce, creme fraiche, chipotle sauce, jalapenos and Mexican rice. It’s the perfect way for guests to make and enjoy their own tacos.
familiafinefoods.com

Burro Tacos, Burlington 

This Mexican establishment serves a variety of lunch and dinner chef-inspired tacos offering a unique twist on popular taco flavours. Burro also has a vibrant drink menu featuring Mexican beer, fun cocktails and of course, tequila. 
burrotacos.com

50 Pesos Kitchen & Food Truck, Burlington 

This food truck boasts some of the best tacos in Halton region. Made with fresh non-GMO corn tortillas, their taco menu includes chicken, carne asada, fish and even vegetarian options including the Biggie Black Bean Taco and Jack n’ Beans Tacos. 
50pesos.ca 

Pepe and Lela’s Eatery, Burlington 

This cozy Mexican restaurant serves up authentic Mexican tacos with a modern twist. Taco options include chicken mole, lamb barbacoa and fish tacos.
pepeandlelas.com

Por Vida Mezcal & Mexican, Oakville

This authentic Mexican and Mezcal restaurant in the heart of Bronte Village will transplant you to Mexico with its lively Mexican music and bright, colourful decor. Por Vida provides a rich chef-inspired taco menu including mole and roasted cauliflower, lamb barbacoa and slow roasted pork shoulder tacos with tortillas made from local, non-modified Ontario grown maize.
porvida.ca 

The Habanero Taqueria, Oakville

This vibrant Mexican taco joint allows you to customize your own soft tacos and serves up other traditional Mexican favourites including nachos, burritos and quesadillas.
thehabanero.ca 

Nostalgia Latin Market, Oakville

Ready to create your own taco bar at home? Hop over to Nostalgia in Kerr Village for some authentic Latin ingredients – from tortillas to condiments and seasonings for the perfect taco. 
nostalgialatinmarket.com

Salma Tacos

If you’re looking for tacos for a special event, Salma Tacos can help. This catering service provides all the fixings for a perfect taco Tuesday experience. 
salmatacos.com 

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ALDERSHOT VILLAGE BIA: Friendly and unique businesses ready to serve you

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Come explore the distinct village of Aldershot and Plains Road where a variety of locally owned businesses are eager to serve you. It’s no secret that shopping at a local business offers a truly personal experience. The owners are passionate, knowledgeable and make the effort to get to know you, the customer. Here in Aldershot, a large portion of its business owners are also residents of the community, and they’ve made developing long-lasting customer relationships a priority. When you walk through their doors, expect a friendly greeting and welcoming atmosphere—it’s all part of the charm of this cozy corridor with the small-town feel. 

The abundance of free, easy-to-access parking along Plains Road makes running your multiple errands a snap. You can forget the stress of searching for a spot and parking time limits – move at your own pace. If cycling is more your style, the freshly paved bike lanes in Aldershot’s west end offer more comfort and safety than ever before. 

The Aldershot BIA turns 20 years old in 2024, and beautification efforts are underway to transform the area into a unique shopping and business district that can increasingly cater to the needs of the surrounding community. 

“It is exciting to see the growth in Aldershot as Plains Road continues to evolve, change and welcome new businesses and residents,” says Andrea Dodd, Executive Director, Aldershot Village BIA. “We are thrilled to be a part of this process that will only bring more success to our current business community and welcome more to the area in the future. Explore and experience Plains Road, get to know our business community and shop Aldershot.” 

Be sure to kickstart the holiday season at the Aldershot tree lighting event in November. 

Fashion Retailers & Kids Clothing

DTWO Clothing Company – A clothing boutique offering a fashion-conscious collection of apparel sourced worldwide at great prices.

Isarti Luxury Menswear – Offering the latest luxurious men’s fashions, Italian-designed and made, from suits to dress shirts, casual jeans to jumpers.

Gerry Lush Clothiers – Choose from fine men’s fashions in casual, business and formal attire with a focus on Canadian brands, contemporary styles and competitive pricing.

Kid to Kid Burlington – A consignment shop for parents and kids that offers first-rate second-hand clothing, accessories and gear for kids of all ages.  

Food & Drink

Ye Olde Squire Taphouse & Eatery – Classic pub food is served up in a friendly atmosphere with a menu that includes award-winning wings, classic pub entrees and more. 

District Kitchen + Bar – A popular casual eatery featuring American and pub fare, craft beer and premium cocktails.

Skyway Diner – A favourite local place for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering a wide variety of menu items, including family-friendly packages. 

The Olive Oil Dispensary – Choose among more than 60 extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world. 

Lord Nelson – Enjoy the highest quality meats and seafood in an atmosphere of elegance along with an extensive wine list.

Turtle Doves Bakery – Indulge in delicious, gluten-free freshly-baked goods like breads, cakes, cheesecakes, cookies and desserts.

Peach Coffee Co. – A welcoming space to experience exceptional specialty coffee, baked goods and impeccable service.

The Platter Company Gourmet Market – Pick up ‘restaurant style’ prepared meals including appetizers, mains, side dishes and desserts to make entertaining easy.  

Health & Wellness

Pillars of Wellness – An award-winning clinic in Burlington, offering physiotherapy, counselling, massage therapy, naturopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture, speech therapy, occupational therapy and yoga therapy

Just Tennis – Specializing in all things tennis, including shoes, apparel, racquets and accessories.

Fit for Life Physiotherapy – Services to clients experiencing musculoskeletal injuries, stroke recovery, osteoporosis management and pelvic health.

Grounded Pilates – A studio offering small group reformer and Pilates chair classes, as well as barre, mat and yoga classes.

The Fitness Firm – A full-service health and wellness club that offers multiple membership options to suit your lifestyle and goals. 

Nixon Martial Arts – Provides high-quality programs in karate, fitness and leadership for both adults and kids.

Aldershot Foot Clinic – Clinic and mobile services in comprehensive foot care, treatment of ingrown toenails, corns and callouses.  

Aldershot Audiology – Provides exceptional and affordable hearing healthcare in a compassionate environment. 

Notable mentions

Scholars of Burlington South – Register for comprehensive tutoring for all subjects in the kindergarten to Grade 12 curriculum with flexible scheduling.

Foli – This online plant retailer offers healthy plants in cool pots for yourself or to gift, with each carefully packed and shipped across Canada. 

Ruston RV – A family-run business, locally owned and operated for more than 54 years, RVs are their one and only focus. 

Looney Tunes Music – Dedicated to bringing customers the best choices in music in CDs, LPs or vinyl.

Yellow Umbrella Driving School – A small class, quality instruction driving school, catering to all students including those with ADHD, anxiety, Asperger’s and higher functioning Autism. 

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Halloween Fun for All Ages: A ghostly roundup of things to do leading up to Halloween in Oakville and Burlington!

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With Halloween creeping up on us, let’s unmask some ghoulishly great ways to celebrate.


Take a ghost tour

You don’t have to wait for Halloween night to get your ghostly thrills. There are some eerie locations around Oakville and Burlington that are screaming out for you to visit – if you dare. 

Erchless Estate is rumoured to be the most haunted house in Oakville, with employees claiming to have seen ghostly figures walking the museum grounds. And if that’s not spine-tingling enough, visit Dingle Park after dark, where you might catch a glimpse of the ghost who is said to reside there. 

If you happen to be in downtown Burlington on the night of a full moon, pay a visit to the statue of the soldier at the cenotaph at City Hall. Legend has it that he descends from his pedestal to wander under the full moon’s light.

If that’s too scary for you, same ghoul, same. I’m team “playful pumpkins” over “ghostly figures” every time. 

Pumpkins After Dark in Milton is a family-friendly way to conjure up some Halloween spirit. Also, check your neighbourhood Facebook groups for “Haunted Houses” near you. Several homes in Oakville and Burlington boast Halloween activities and decor that are eerie-sistible. 


Get this party startled!

A costume swap isn’t just budget-friendly; it’s also eco-friendly. Invite friends to bring their gently used costumes, and let the trading begin. Combining elements from various costumes can result in a unique look. Think Fairy-Ogre, Manchester United-Monkey, Space-Kitten, or Flamingo-Werewolf – guaranteed to stand out in any Halloween parade.

Consider hosting an “Upstairs Downstairs Party” to make it easier for parents of young children to socialize. Parents can bob for apples upstairs while their little ones enjoy treats and games downstairs, under the watchful eye of a few teens hired by ‘mummies’ (and daddies). 

Organize a scary movie marathon (Author’s Note: At the first sign of a clown, I’m out of there faster than you can say, “It.”) Serve up terrifying treats like Halloweenies and petrified popcorn and you’ll be the ghostess with the mostess. Remind guests to BYOB (Bring Your Own Boos). 


Trick or treat yourself

Many local shops and restaurants welcome young trick-or-treaters with candy-filled bowls. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses while collecting some sweet treats.

Instead of going the usual candy bowl route, add a dash of creativity to the Halloween mix! Set up a “Witches’ Cauldron” using some dry ice for an extra eerie effect, or create a “Mummy’s Tomb” brimming with treats. And hats off to my ingenious neighbours who send treats down a PVC pipe from an upper window – we applaud your wicked engineering.

Welcome trick-or-treaters with glowing jack-o-lanterns, a Halloween music playlist on a loop, festive lights or some creepy cobwebs to set the mood. Let your imagination run wild, but within reason. I had to remind my spouse not to jump out in his vampire costume to scare unsuspecting trick-or-treaters. While it may sound amusing in theory, the bone-chilling scream from our neighbour (and her young child) haunted me for months. She gave us resting-witch face until Christmas. 


Keep celebrations inclusive and safe

Some children may have dietary restrictions, while others may have sensory sensitivities. Consider offering a mix of treats and non-food items (stickers, bubbles, fidget toys, glowsticks, slime) to accommodate all trick-or-treaters. 

If your children are old enough to venture out on their own, be sure to review safety rules and common courtesies. Remind them to take only a few treats from unsupervised bowls left out on doorsteps and to respect property – only monsters and ghouls stomp over flower beds.

There you have it, a how-to guide for a Halloween that’s frightfully fun for all ages! Whether you’re swapping costumes, exploring haunted houses, or simply enjoying the treats, have a safe and scary Halloween, everyone! 

by Lisa Thornbury

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