The businesses of the Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) are proud to present the fourth season of the free, festive fall celebration, Falling for Burlington Downtown, bringing the community together to enjoy the best of autumn in Burlington.

On October 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., the downtown core will transform into a hub of fall flavors, festive activities, community spirit and live music. Guests can enjoy pumpkin-inspired bites and hearty comfort dishes perfect for sweater weather, while exploring Civic Square and Brant Street for games, interactive activities, and countless photo opportunities. Village Square and the Promenade Walkway will also feature local tastes and sweet surprises from some of Burlington’s favorite businesses.

With more than 400 small businesses to shop, dine, and sip from, Burlington Downtown offers everything from cozy fall fashion and home comforts to unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

For those seeking a quiet moment during the festivities, a sensory zone will be available, complete with gentle lighting, soothing sounds, and event staff on hand to assist.

Samantha gets up after sleeping in a bit. It’s Thursday, her usual day off, but this one happens to be her 29th birthday. She stretches and smiles, excited to be spending this warm autumn day right here in her home town of Ancaster.

There are errands to run, but not before breakfast. Her favourite aunt, Michelle, wants to treat her to breakfast at Caniche French Bakery. Samantha once bought a six-pack of macarons there but hasn’t spent time in their dining room.

On her way out, she spots something in her mailbox: a gift bag of peanut brittle and some chocolate covered Oreos, from Chocolate Sensations! The tag says, “B-day Sweets to our Sweetie. Love, Mom and Dad.” A wonderful treat for later!

At the bakery, Michelle is already seated by a sunny window and enjoying a cappuccino. “Happy Birthday!” she says with a smile (and a slight crema moustache).

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

It’s nice to catch up in such a homy, inviting space. Samantha lets Michelle do most of the talking and digs into a Quiche Lorraine bursting with cheddar-bacon goodness. She caps off breakfast with a decadent salted caramel latte. Before hugging her goodbye, Michelle buys her an almond croissant to go.

Tim Hortons is right next door, so she stops in for a dark roast. While standing in line, she sees her neighbour, Jack. Just back from Bodywise Health & Rehab, he is gushing over how they have relieved his stiff neck.

Less than a minute up Wilson Street is the Ancaster Public Library. Once inside, she finds the Braveheart DVD she’d put on hold. First Ontario Credit Union and Rexall are just down the road, so she gets cash out at the ATM (to tip tonight’s bartender!) and then buys some shampoo and a tinted, mint-flavoured lip balm.

Back outside, the sweet-smelling autumn air reminds Samantha of one more errand. Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing left a message two days ago, saying her picture was ready.

The man at the counter fetches her 11”x17” framed picture from a back room and calls it “a beauty.” And wow, he’s right. By sheer luck, while exploring Canterbury Hills with her beloved whippet, Stella, Samantha managed to grab her phone in time to capture a pileated woodpecker up close, on a tree trunk, almost beak-to-snout with her dog.

Dad calls to remind her about Saturday. For her 30th birthday next year, her parents are already planning on Sunday brunch at Ancaster Mill, complete with a waterfall view, but this Saturday also sounds like heaven — drinks, along with cured meats, antipasto, and decadent cheeses from The Muse Charcuterie. It will be a small, family affair at the Ancaster home where she grew up.

That evening, after chilling at home for a while, Samantha prepares for the real festivities. She brushes her long hair smooth and puts on her favourite pink dress, which goes perfectly with her burgundy nails from her recent manicure at The Spa at Ancaster.

Her designated driver, Peter, picks her up at 8. When they arrive at The Coach and Lantern, all of her work friends and school buddies wave excitedly. One friend, Sasha, has brought her ukulele and is the first person on stage for the 8:30 Open Mic. She surprises Samantha with a sweet rendition of Justin Bieber’s “Baby,” a song from their high school days.

Feeling at home in their cozy 200-year-old neighbourhood pub, Samantha and her friends feast on Irish nachos, popcorn shrimp and bruschetta while toasting the occasion with cocktails, mocktails, and ale. After the Open Mic, their server delivers sticky toffee pudding with a lit candle in it. After she blows it out, her friends surprise her with a mini orchid garden in a pretty white pot from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

Late that night, before drifting off to sleep, Samantha feels grateful for her friends and hometown. If this is 29, she thinks, 30 will really be awesome.

Birthday In My Home Town
SAMANTHA’ S TO -DO LIST

• Meet Aunt Michelle at Caniche French Bakery for breakfast.
• Thank Mom & Dad for the treats from Chocolate Sensations.
• Pick up skirt from Pioneer Cleaners.
• Pick up laptop from Ancaster Computer Products.
• Get DVD from Ancaster Public Library.
• Go to ATM at First Ontario Credit Union.
• Stop in to Rexall (need shampoo).
• Creations Gallery Fine Art And Framing says my woodpecker photo is ready!
• Go home, feed pets, walk Stella, have lunch, nap.
• Birthday dinner at The Coach and Lantern!

FOLLOW- UP NOTES FOR MY JOURNAL…

Great birthday, and so many great places close to home! Other important mentions:

While grabbing a dark roast at Tim Hortons I chatted with my neighbour, Jack. He looked great after his treatment at Bodywise Health & Rehab.

Dad called to confirm Saturday’s lunch from The Muse Charcuterie and is already looking forward to celebrating my 30th next year at Ancaster Mill. The Spa at Ancaster did a fab job on my nails.

I just love the mini orchid garden my friends got me from Blooms Fresh Floral & Garden Centre.

OAKVILLE – Summer is officially here, and there’s no better time to explore everything Oakville has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a seasoned local, or visiting friends and family, Oakville is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway to enjoy exciting events, cultural celebrations, and breathtaking natural beauty.

“Summer in Oakville is filled with pleasant surprises,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director at Visit Oakville. “From the gorgeous waterfront and vibrant downtown to parks and festivals, you are moments away from local flavours, family fun, outdoor adventure and more.”

Here are the top things to do in Oakville this summer:

• Friday Night Jazz – June 27 – July 18, 7:00-9:00 p.m. – Swing into the weekend with the smooth sounds of jazz at Towne Square in downtown Oakville on Friday nights! Join in for an unforgettable evening by John Canham & Joe Dukes—featuring a talented quartet that bring classic jazz vibes to life.
• Bronte Lake Notes – Runs until August 28, 7:00 p.m. – Enjoy FREE live music under the sails at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park every Thursday evening.
• Canada Day Celebration – July 1 – Join in on July 1 at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. for a spectacular community celebration hosted by the Town of Oakville that includes family activities, food, entertainment and fireworks at the end of the night. The Bronte Legion will also celebrate with food trucks, beer & wine garden, a market, kids’ activities, live music and more! Downtown Oakville will also have live entertainment, family-friendly fun, local vendors, and festive surprises throughout the day.
• Bronte Farmers’ Market – July 6 – September 28, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Every Sunday all summer long, explore fresh local produce, handmade goods, and more in Bronte.
• Oakville Wind Orchestra Sounds of Summer – July 8 – August 12, 7:00 p.m. – The Oakville Wind Orchestra, Canada’s oldest community concert band, will host six FREE, family-friendly concerts. Take a toe-tapping journey through the ages under the gazebo at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
• Oakville Latino Festival – From July 25-27, Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park transforms into a lively celebration of Latin culture, food, music and dance.
• Art in the Park – August 4, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Over 180 incredible artists will showcase their talents in painting, sculpture, photography, jewellery, ceramics, woodworking, glass art and more at Oakville’s premiere art event at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park.
• Emancipation Day Picnic – August 4, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Join the Town of Oakville and the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) at the grounds of the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate for a vibrant community celebration to commemorate Emancipation Day.
• Ghost Walks – August 8-9, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Spooky and fun! Join the guided ghost walks at Spruce Lane Farmhouse at Bronte Creek Provincial Park for a hauntingly good time.
• CRAFT Live Afro-Caribbean Canadian Waterfront Fête – August 30 – Enjoy Afro-Caribbean food, music, and culture at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park. Free and fun for all ages!
• KerrFest & KerrFest Kids – September 5-7 – This family-friendly music and community festival lights up Westwood Park. Kerrfest will run September 5-6 and Kerrfest Kids will be on September 7.
• Art in My Garden – September 6, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Tour the gardens of historic Oakville and experience art in a truly unique setting. Stroll and see up to sixty artists at thirty host gardens.

And That’s not all – Oakville is a haven for outdoor lovers and foodies alike. With over 1,400 hectares of parkland and many scenic waterfront trails perfect for hiking or biking, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in the beauty of the season. After a day of exploring, refuel in Oakville’s thriving food scene, which includes Hexagon, one of just 15 restaurants in Ontario to be awarded the prestigious MICHELIN Star. And don’t forget to stroll through Oakville’s charming downtown – home to a variety of boutique shops, cafes, and more that will make it a summer to remember.

Extend your visit with a stay at an Oakville hotel or at Bronte Creek Provincial Park, which offers overnight camping for the perfect nature escape. Learn more here.

For more information and to plan your stay visit: www.visitoakville.com. To view even more fun events, visit www.visitoakville.com/events.

About Visit Oakville:

Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry.

For more information, please contact:
Christa Poole
Visit Oakville
christa.poole@visitoakville.com

The Burlington Downtown Business Association is thrilled to announce the return of Movies by the Lake — the popular free outdoor movie series hosted weekly in Spencer Smith Park.

Now entering its fourth season, this cinematic summer staple runs every Tuesday evening from July 8 to August 19, 2025, featuring a star-studded lineup of nostalgic favourites sure to delight film fans of all ages.

Set against the scenic shoreline of Lake Ontario, Movies by the Lake transforms Tuesday nights into unforgettable community experiences. Whether you’re a classic comedy lover, an action enthusiast, or just in it for the popcorn vibes, there’s something for every moviegoer under the stars.

All screenings begin at dusk. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring their own chairs or blankets, and enjoy a pre-show experience by exploring Burlington Downtown’s 400+ local businesses. Whether you grab dinner and drinks, shop for treasures, or stroll by the lake, it’s your chance to package the perfect cinematic night out.

Back by popular demand is Movie Trivia, the ultimate warm-up act for film buffs and casual viewers alike. Flex your film knowledge with new questions each week, covering everything from iconic movie scores to legendary villains.

This event is all-ages, alcohol-free, and includes accessible seating and on-site support. Guests are asked to use discretion regarding film content and to be mindful of others during the show.

In the event of inclement weather, screenings will be cancelled. Real-time updates will be posted via our Instagram and Facebook platforms.

For the full movie lineup, showtimes, and event details, please visit our website at www.burlingtondowntown.ca/movies2025.

Press information

For media inquiries, please contact:

Alison Policicchio, Marketing Manager
Burlington Downtown Business Association
marketing@burlingtondowntown.ca

For inquiries pertaining to the BDBA, please contact:

Brian Dean, Executive Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
brian@burlingtondowntown.ca

The BDBA is a not–for-profit association responsible for the vitalization and promotion of our vibrant Downtown business community. A special levy constitutes the organization’s budget and allows the Board and their sub committees to execute programs and events with great volunteer support of the membership on behalf of all of the members within our boundaries.

The BDBA promotes our dense commercial area as a vibrant business and shopping district. Through the use of promotional activities such as special events, advertising, and beautification programs, we aim to keep the area foremost in the public’s mind as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained, to work, and to live. We want to make the quality of life for our Downtown businesses and services better.

Our efforts are dedicated to ensuring a healthy economic environment for our community and making our Downtown a better place to shop, dine, live, work, invest, visit and play!

Sunset Kino is Canada’s only outdoor, avant-garde film festival. Founded by Séamus Kealy in Austria in 2017, this festival continues at Oakville Galleries in Gairloch Gardens. Introduced by the programmers and commencing at sunset, audiences experience a curated program of films and videos by Canadian and international artists.

Every year the program is guided by an overall theme and programmed also in relation to the summer exhibition. Parallel to Sunset Kino is our Summer Exhibition, Ilya & Emilia Kabakov: Between Heaven and Earth and the commissioned public art installation, The Ship of Tolerance, a collaboration between the artists and the children of Canada.

This year’s Sunset Kino theme is “What Was That.” This phrase is not conveyed as a question necessarily, rather as a statement that underlines something confounding. This could be the idea of a portrait under pressure, which is thus distorted or inaccurate or conflated with a different idea. This could also be a notion of where we are going collectively once a sea change has happened. The idea of “who will I be” now that a challenging event has happened is also hinted at, as indeed is the mind’s processing of what has just happened. As avant-garde cinema, the theme also self-consciously foreshadows an imaginary audience’s potential response to what they just saw (when the lights come up and one is not sure what just happened). As with all of Sunset Kino’s programming, this theme of “What Was That” also connects to larger geopolitical shifts and resulting narratives whether expressed across borders or locally. Ultimately Sunset Kino this year asks us to ponder how we are constantly needing to shift our perception of the world, and perhaps also our role as individuals and collective society
as a new global order becomes more palpable.

Each Sunset Kino evening, artist Faisal Anwar presents tailored projection performances ahead of the curated program.

Altogether this set of programs, exhibitions, and installations is the most ambitious project by Oakville Galleries to date. The Ship of Tolerance is presented in collaboration with the Ilya and Emilia Kabakov Foundation, as well as with The National Gallery of Canada. The National Gallery of Canada’s National Engagement initiative is generously supported by Michael Nesbitt, with additional funding from the National Gallery of Canada Foundation.

PROGRAM:

Thursday, June 26
Film by Niels-Christian Bolbrinker, Dr. Kerstin Stutterheim
Programmed by Emilia Kabakov & Séamus Kealy

Thursday, July 3
Echoes From Distant Shores
Films by Maryam Samadi, Shadi Harouni, Rouzbeh Akhbari, and Malak Masoumi
Programmed by Ala Roushan

Thursday, July 10
Films by Rabih Mroué: Face A Face B, With Soul, with Blood, Shooting Images, Cheers to Our
Wishes, and Footnotes
Programmed by Séamus Kealy

Thursday, July 17
Films by Renèe Helèna Browne: Daddy’s Boy, Sacred Disease and Sanctus!
Programmed by Séamus Kealy

For detailed information about the films, artists and programmers please visit our website: https://www.oakvillegalleries.com/SunsetKino

About Oakville Galleries

Oakville Galleries is a contemporary art museum presenting international and Canadian artists. Housed in a unique lakeside mansion and park as well as a white cube gallery downtown, Oakville Galleries is one of Canada’s leading contemporary art institutions. The Executive Director is Séamus Kealy. Supported by The Town of Oakville, Canada Council, Government of Ontario, Ontario Arts Council, sponsors, patrons and members.

PRESS IMAGE CREDITS BELOW
For additional information or request hi-res images, please contact:
Shannon Ye
Marketing & Communications Manager, Oakville Galleries
shannon@oakvillegalleries.com
905-844-4402 ext.28

The businesses of the Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) invite you to celebrate the return of patio season in Downtown Burlington!

From now through October 31st, participating restaurants are encouraged to activate their patios by extending into adjacent sidewalks and roadways, offering residents and visitors a vibrant, memorable outdoor dining experience all summer long.

The BDBA is proud to support outdoor dining and continues to champion creative, community- focused uses of public spaces. This year, the organization is once again funding pedestrian bypasses: temporary sidewalk extensions that allow for expanded patios while maintaining walkability.

Each bypass is beautifully enhanced with planter boxes, bringing the charm of seasonal blooms to street level and contributing to the lively downtown atmosphere.

Speaking to the “vibrant atmosphere” it creates for residents and visitors alike, Chair of the BDBA Board of Directors, Liza Buchard-Bain, expressed, “Burlington’s downtown is once again coming alive, with patios opening up and people gathering to enjoy the cherished, albeit short, summer season.”

She continued, “The arrival of patio season is always a highlight for our community, as it transforms our downtown into a lively hub of activity. Restaurants and cafes spill onto the sidewalks, creating inviting spaces where friends and families can gather to share meals, laughter, and good times!”

Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns added, “The annual patio program is more than just a seasonal initiative: it’s a vital economic driver for our downtown restaurants and businesses. It creates a welcoming atmosphere that fosters connection, supports local commerce, and showcases Burlington as a destination for everyone to enjoy.”

Thank you to our 2025 patio program sponsors: Perspective Vision, Pure Boutique, Stoner & Company, Family Law, The Kuchma Team, and Mallord Farms, for their generous support in helping us bring the vibrancy of patio season to life.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Alison Policicchio, Marketing Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
marketing@burlingtondowntown.ca

For inquiries pertaining to the BDBA, please contact:
Brian Dean, Executive Director
Burlington Downtown Business Association
brian@burlingtondowntown.ca

The BDBA is a Local Board of the City of Burlington responsible for the vitalization and promotion of our vibrant Downtown business community.

The BDBA promotes our dense commercial area as a vibrant business and shopping district. Through the use of promotional activities such as special events, advertising, and beautification programs, we aim to keep the area foremost in the public’s mind as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained, to work, and to live. We want to make the quality of life for our Downtown businesses and services better.

Our efforts are dedicated to ensuring a healthy economic environment for our community and making our Downtown a better place to shop, dine, live, work, invest, visit, and play!