“Strap on your snowshoes or winter boots and trek along the trails.”
We get it, it’s cold outside, and not everyone likes the cold. A day on the beach or an afternoon on a dock certainly has its time and place. But when you live in Canada, winter always finds its way back. While summer is the perfect season to kick back and relax, winter is the time of year that truly brings adventure. It’s time to crawl out from under the comforter, turn off that re-run of Schitt’s Creek (though, we do love that all-Canadian show), and hit the slopes – or the hills – or the rink.
This year more than ever, it’s time to strap on some boots, put on some gloves, and check these local destinations off your winter bucket list.
At the Royal Botanical Gardens, the gardens and trails are ever-changing. With 27km of hiking trails and nature sanctuaries full of life, there is so much to explore. Strap on your snowshoes or winter boots and trek along the trails. Look for animal tracks along the way, explore indigenous plant use, and keep your eyes peeled for raptors and arctic birds. With so much trail to explore, you’ll always see something new.
Winter is a great time to explore Bronte Creek Provincial Park. In addition to their trails which are perfect for a winter hike or snowshoe, there are 5km of cross-country ski trails that loop throughout the park. Deer tracks are often visible in the freshly fallen snow and you may even catch a glimpse of some wildlife – birds in particular. Winter is one of the best times to bird watch because they’re easier to spot. And for the kids and kids-at-heart, Bronte has a great toboggan hill.
Under the umbrella of Conservation Halton, there are eight parks – many of which offer winter-specific activities.
Glen Eden (gleneden.on.ca), located in Milton, is a small hill with a big heart. As soon as the frost appears on the escarpment, the snow guns are blowing fresh powder onto the hills. With 15 runs and three terrain park runs, this park is ready for winter fun! The 2020/2021 ski and snowboard season is a go this year with additional safety measures in place (for example, a mask must be worn both indoors and outdoors at all times except for eating or drinking). Reservations must be made in advance and slots are limited to a 4-hour window.
If you love winter, Mountsberg is the place to be. Visitors enjoy blazing their own path when they cross country ski over ungroomed trails. For those who love to strap on a pair of snowshoes and work-up a sweat, the Lakeshore Lookout Trail loop is a great option. Families and couples will also enjoy the Tale’s by a Winter’s Fire program and horse-drawn sleigh rides into the sparkling, snow-covered sugar bush.
Crawford Lake is another great spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Conservation Halton staff host Moonlight Guided Snowshoe Hikes and nature brings out all the stops: stars, sparkle, moonshine, and snowy landscape glows. After the hike, get cozy by a fire and drink hot chocolate.
You can also try cross-country skiing on the Pine Ridge Trail. You’ll trek through frosted pine tree plantations while you make your own path. The trail isn’t groomed so you’ll warm up during this winter work-out!
All of these locations, along with many other parks in Halton Region, host winter-specific activities and programming. With safety guidelines changing week-to-week, it’s best to check their websites to see if your favourite holiday traditions are still running. Either way, the parks are ready for you to hit the slopes, explore the trails, and become one with winter nature.
Oakville, ON – It’s official. Downtown Oakville’s vibrant core is bustling once again. And there’s not better time than now to explore all the enhancements of its recent construction project. With travel halted due to COVID-19, many are spending the holidays right here at home – in Oakville. This holiday season, take advantage of being home and become a tourist in Oakville’s downtown. Rediscover its historic charm and explore the revitalized core featuring new installments and classic charm.
To celebrate the 2020 holiday season, Downtown Oakville has created a heightened holiday experience, offering new sights and wonder.
Introducing Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday. From new dazzling décor to holiday happy hours and virtual gift guides, the Downtown Oakville BIA has pulled out all the stops to bring this season to life.
On display from now until January 10th, 2021, there’s a must-see 30-foot Ribbon Tree of Lights and #DTOakville sign located in Towne Square. Centennial Square comes to life with a 3D illuminated ornament, matching archway, and beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Throughout the district, you’ll find spectacular lighting and décor, perfect for an evening stroll with family and photo-op.
Don’t miss out on the this week’s special offers from participating stores and restaurants during Holiday Happy Hour from 6 pm to 7 pm (Dec 17,18 from 6-7 p.m.) and you can also support local by shopping our Virtual Gift Guide featuring over 100 unique items from Downtown Oakville businesses – all of which can be purchased with the click of a button.
Lastly, everyone loves to give during the holidays. So, Downtown Oakville is giving you the chance to WIN (1) of (3) $500 gift cards to a Downtown Oakville business of your choice – truly a gift of shopping local. The contest ends Sunday December 20th, 2020 and you can enter here.
Parking is FREE on weekends (until Dec 31st, 2020), weekdays after 6 p.m. and on holidays. Learn more about the parking program here.
For updates on shopping experiences, visit and Instagram (@oakvilledowntown), Facebook (@downtownoakville) and Twitter (@oakvilledwntown).
Click here for a full list of Downtown Oakville businesses.
When you think back on the holidays, what do you remember most? Is it gathering with family around the kitchen table? Singing carols around a piano? Maybe it’s baking gingerbread cookies with Grandma on Christmas Eve. We all have something special we hold close to our hearts when it comes to the holidays. For years, Burlington Downtown has played a hand in crafting those memories and traditions.
From the annual Festival of Lights in Spencer Smith Park to the Festival of Trees at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, our charming downtown comes to life every winter – and every winter, magic is made.
While our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Claus Parade are taking a 2020 hiatus, we’re excited to bring you something new and bright that we call Burlington Downtown Bright Nights.
This interactive instalment will illuminate and transform downtown walkways with glittering lights and interactive displays.
As you enjoy an evening stroll through a picture-perfect postcard setting, you’ll be greeted by charming storefronts, each decorated for the season in their very own way. Entering the Elgin Promenade, you’ll find yourself under a 100-foot canopy of glistening lights, a perfect setting for pictures (or engagements – no pressure). Between Scriveners and Kelly’s Bake Shoppe, TheSinging Tree will invite you to interact in real-time. This lighting scheme responds to singing, clapping, or yelling – creating an unforgettable and magical experience for participants.
No matter where you wander, you’ll be met with magic. This is an illuminating downtown experience unlike one we’ve ever done before.
Bright Nights will take place from December 2020 to January 2021. The experience is free to the public and designed to be enjoyed safely outdoors with physical distancing.
Fall is in the air — the crisp breeze, the cozy sweaters, the pumpkin spice lattes, and the gorgeous sights of leaves changing colour. So zip up, strap on your hiking boots, and get outside to enjoy the breathtaking Fall foliage that this season has to offer in our local region!
From small parks hidden within the suburban sprawl and bursting with colours, to conservation areas and trails leading to stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment, to hidden gems alive with wildlife and birds of all species, the Halton Region is a nature lover’s playground and a magical place to be during the Autumn months.
Now, without further ado, here are the best parks and trails to visit in Burlington, Milton & Oakville!
Highlights:Known as Canada’s largest Botanical Gardens, RBG invites you to stroll along their picture-perfect trails and gardens that will leave you marvelling at the rich fall colours of foliage and the seasonal blooms in each of the five parks (RBG Centre, Hendrie Park, Laking Garden, Rock Garden, and the Arboretum) located in Burlington and Hamilton.
Highlight:Backing onto the RBG’s Hendrie Park, this beautiful 100-hectare nature sanctuary is centred on the Grindstone Creek Valley and features over 4 kilometres of trails. During the autumn season, the valley bursts with rich fall colours as you stroll along the peaceful trail and the winding boardwalk, listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you. It’s a true paradise in the city!
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit — book atparkvisit.ca.
Where: 5317 Guelph Line
Highlights:Thousand-year-old crevice caves, majestic ancient cedars and limestone boulders blanketed by rich green ferns. Mount Nemo Conservation Area is a jewel of nature, with one of the best cliff ecosystems on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment. Wander through the dense forested trails, pause at the cliff-edge lookout points for gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. (Note: if you’re eager to engage in a full day of hiking, Mount Nemo has connections to the Bruce Trail).
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit – book atparkvisit.ca.
Where: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton
Highlights:Featuring various trails ranging from easy to adventurous, Rattlesnake Point is a popular spot for all outdoor enthusiasts seeking to escape the city and enjoy a whole day of hiking, bird watching and stargazing (if you stay until dusk). While there are several lookout points, the Buffalo Craig Lookout Point features the most breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment, as visitors will enjoy the sightlines of the fall colours extending into the distance and turkey vultures soar over the picturesque landscape.
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit – book at parkvisit.ca.
Where: 5234 Kelso Road, Milton
Highlights:With the breathtaking Niagara Escarpment as the backdrop, Kelso is a mecca for nature and adventure enthusiasts, with year-round hiking and a variety of seasonal outdoor activities for all interests and skill levels. Visitors enjoy hiking and mountain biking during the Autumn months, where they can tour the extensive trail network while marvelling the stunning fields and views of the old-growth forests atop the escarpment.
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit – book atparkvisit.ca.
Where:4985 Campbellville Road, Milton
Highlights:Another little paradise in our local area, Hilton Falls boasts a picturesque waterfall perfect for photo-ops, the historic ruins of the area’s former Mill, and a peaceful reservoir to enjoy a quiet pause as you see the gorgeous Fall colours reflected in the water.
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit – book atparkvisit.ca.
Where: 2259 Milburough Line, Campbellville
Highlights:During the Autumn months, the sugar maple trees blaze into bright beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visitors can enjoy a serene hike (or a mountain bike trail ride) along the Wildlife Walkway Trail to see the wetlands painted in these gorgeous Fall colours. Mounstberg also invites nature lovers to bring a non-motorized boat to the Mountsberg Reservoir where they can enjoy a calm, scenic view of the park. Lastly, a trip to Mountsberg Conservation Area isn’t complete without enjoying some bird-watching at the Raptor Centre where visitors can meet Jazz the Barn Owl and several other birds, who live in their enclosed outdoor environments.
Note: Reservations are now required before your visit – book atparkvisit.ca.
Where: 3115 Conservation Road
Highlights:This beautiful oasis explodes in a fire of colour during the Autumn season. Shutterbugs and nature enthusiasts will be amazed as they walk along the peaceful boardwalk and gaze at the gorgeous colours reflected in the park’s meromictic lake, or enjoy a hike to the Nassagaweya Canyon Lookout for a flawless view of the Niagara Escarpment, photographing the beautiful meadows, woodlands, and pine plantations. Also, don’t miss out on visiting the Jefferson Salamander and Monarch Butterfly wood carvings on the Hide and Seek Trail: the carvings spread awareness of species at risk.
Highlights:It might be the smallest of the Halton Conservation Areas, but Robert Edmondson is bursting with beauty along its 1.4 mile trail with a beautifully-maintained boardwalk. This tiny hideaway will provide you with peace and quiet time for reflection in nature, away from the busy crowds at the larger parks and conservation areas. While Spring boasts gorgeous marsh marigolds, Autumn is just as serene as visitors gaze upon the reflection of the fall colours on the reservoir.(Note: no reservation is required)
Highlights:One of Ontario’s most beautiful parks, featuring five adventurous hiking trails of varying length and difficulty! Along with the beautiful fall colours, the park abounds with various bird species and wildlife!
Highlights:Located right in the middle of Oakville, this magical trail will swiftly have you feeling like you’re deep within nature and far from the city. Manageable for hikers of all skill levels, the trail features various lookout points, with the west bank lookout showcasing spectacular sightlines of the fall foliage! There are many access points to the trail, scattered through Oakville, but the best are found in and around Lions Valley Park, between Upper Middle Road West and Dundas Street West.
Highlights:Stroll through beautiful flower gardens that change with the season, sit down on one of the stone benches to admire the fall foliage and stroll down the walking trail that leads to a serene water fountain and breathtaking lakeside views.
Highlights:Connecting to Joshua’s Creek Trail, this park features towering trees that look gorgeous during Autumn, as you walk along and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the bubbling brook!
Highlights:One of Oakville’s best-kept secrets, this charming park is another hidden gem that will leave you daydreaming in solitude under beautiful canopies of fall trees.
…Looking for some fun Fall-inspired activities to enjoy with your friends and family in the Halton region?
Well, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit to celebrate the Autumn harvest season and even Halloween! As a bonus, you’ll be supporting local.
Apples, Pumpkins…It’s Pickin’ Season!
Photo Credit: Chudleighs Farm
Chudleighs Farm 9528 Regional Road 25, Georgetown, Halton Hills September through October Located in Halton Hills, Chudleighs Farm has been serving the area for more than 50 years and it’s become an annual tradition for people to visit Chudleighs for apple picking and other fun Fall activities at the farm. During harvest season from September through October, guests are invited to pick from 22 varieties of apples across the farm’s 60 acres. Along with apple picking, there’s lots more to explore, including: scenic tractor wagon rides by the Niagara Escarpment, visits with the farm animals, treks down the farm’s nature trails, and a hay bale playground for both the young and the young at heart! https://www.chudleighs.com/
Andrew’s Scenic Acres 9365 10th Sideroad, Milton With acres upon acres of pumpkins, in every shape, size and colour, you’re sure to find the perfect pumpkin at Andrew’s Scenic Acres! You’ll find jack-o’-lanterns, pie pumpkins, miniature, warty white, green and grey pumpkins. Also, you won’t want to leave without trying Andrews’ seasonal pumpkin ice cream and their one-of-a-kind pumpkin wine from their on-site winery! https://www.andrewsscenicacres.com/
Photo Credit: Andrews Scenic Acres
Springridge Farm 7256 Bell School Line, Milton While U-Pick isn’t an option at Springridge this Fall, the farm welcomes anyone to stop by and purchase fresh produce that’s already been picked and is ready to bring home! Visitors can choose from three options to pick up their farm-fresh produce, including: visiting the Barn Market or the brand-new Front Porch Servery, or ordering online for barnside pick-up! Along with the produce (including apples, pumpkins, gourds, corn), visitors can pick up freshly-baked goods, lunch items, or even find a beautiful collection of locally-made gifts (fashion, jewellery, accessories, home decor) at the loft boutique inside the Barn Market. https://www.springridgefarm.com/
Stonehaven Farms 7388 Guelph Line, Campbellville Stonehaven’s market reopens on September 19 for the Falls season, offering a variety of farm-fresh and gourmet food items, baked goods, and unique gifts made by local artisans. Stonehaven has pre-picked pumpkins for purchase, or visitors are invited to purchase a ticket if they’d like to pick their own.https://www.stonehavenfarms.com/
Souptogo 573 Parkside Drive, Waterdown This lovely farm in the Village of Waterdown (within the Greater Hamilton Area) welcomes visitors to pick that perfect pumpkin, enjoy family photos with Fall-themed decor, and visit the bakery where they can enjoy homemade treats (scones, breads, pies) and delicious homemade soups that range from Sweet Potato Apple Bacon to Chicken Pot Pie or Ham & Gouda (among a variety of other flavours that change on a daily basis). soup-to-go.ca
Get Lost! (In a Corn Maze)
Photo Credit: Stonehaven Farms
Andrew’s Scenic Acres 9365 10th Sideroad, Milton Along with their large pumpkin patch to get you stocked up for Halloween, you and your family can spend a whole fun-filled afternoon at Andrew’s! There’s several hay bale playgrounds for the kids (or young at heart!), a winery and market to pick up some pumpkin wine, produce and farm-fresh baked goods, and a corn maze to explore together (if you’re feeling adventurous!). https://www.andrewsscenicacres.com/
Stonehaven Farms 7388 Guelph Line, Campbellville Stonehaven Farms invites you to get lost in their five-acre Giant Corn Maze and then be challenged to a game found within the maze. The Maze opens early September and runs continuously on weekends and Thanksgiving Monday for all visitors until the end of October. Weekday and Nightly adventures by flashlight (bring your own) are also available by pre-booking only, with a minimum charge applied for groups less than 20 people. Strollers/wagons are not recommended, and proper footwear is advised within the maze. For those seeking a full afternoon’s worth of fun, they can book the ‘Fall Fun All Inclusive Package’, which includes the maze, along with unlimited wagon rides and the ‘Strawhaven’ Straw Bale area. https://www.stonehavenfarms.com/
Photo Credit: Stonehaven Farms
Boo! Have some Spooktacular Fun
Pumpkins After Dark: Drive-Thru Event Country Heritage Park 8560 Tremaine Rd, Milton September 18 to November 1 (Thursdays to Sundays starting after dark) After selling out last year and receiving great reviews, Pumpkins After Dark is returning this Fall but will now take place as a drive-thru event! Fun with your family, friends or even alone, visitors will enjoy a 1.5 hour spooktacular drive through a 2.5 km loop in Milton’s Country Heritage Park, lit up on either side by over 150 one-of-kind pumpkin sculptures. Visitors will also have the option to tune into the local radio station for a complete guided audio tour as they cruise along and marvel at the uniquely carved jack-o-lanterns. Tickets must be pre-purchased online, with a timed entry. https://pumpkinsafterdark.com/
Photo Credit: Pumpkins After Dark
The Great Pumpkin Trail 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington Friday October 23 and Saturday October 24 It’s a magical evening on the Pumpkin Trail! Follow the candlelit glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns guiding your way through Hendrie Park, and along the South Bridle Trail. Encounter roaming entertainment and other special guests who are ready to share some cool facts about bats, spiders, and of course PUMPKINS! Don’t miss the unique opportunity to take part in this family-friendly event celebrating the fall season. Don’t forget your costume! https://www.rbg.ca/events/the-great-pumpkin-trail/?on=2020-10-23
Trick or …. Trivia? Halloween Edition Online, via the Royal Botanical Gardens Wednesday October 28 The things that go bump in the night and make your hair stand on end are coming for you this October with RBG Virtual Trivia! Delve into the world of monsters, ghosts, creepy crawlies and freaky science as we explore all things Halloween! Be sure to join the RBG Team on Wednesday October 28 for a ghoulish good time! Questions will be presented through Zoom by the trivia host(s) and participants can enter their answers on Kahoot! through their mobile device. Pre-Registration is required to participate. https://www.rbg.ca/events/virtual-trivia-night/?on=2020-09-23
Every puppy parent knows the word ‘walk’ is not one to throw around lightly. After all, it’s a promise that must be kept. A simple utterance of the word sends tails wagging – and while a walk around the block might suffice, dogs live for adventure. They like to sniff, they like to run, and just like their humans, they like to socialize. Oakville and Burlington are dog-friendly cities with a vast selection of off-leash parks. For dogs big and small, these areas of wonder are just the place to run until their heart’s content:
Oakville
Kingsford Gardens (2667 Kingsway Dr)
Smaller fenced-in, off-leash dog park
Located in Kingsford Gardens (well-maintained and beautiful garden lot)
Close to many walking trails
Open seven days a week, 8 am until 11 pm
Lakeside Dog Park (2266 Lakeshore Rd W.)
Fenced-in, leash-free dog park
Chain-link perimeter fencing keeps all sizes and breeds in the zone
Dual in-and-out gates and wheelchair accessibility
Watering station available in warmer months
Year-round restroom facilities and ample parking
Garbage bins in the area
Provides a beautiful view of Lake Ontario
Next-door to Lakeside Park splash pad, a playground, and picnic tables
Open seven days a week, 5:30 am until midnight
Glenashton Park (1051 Glenashton Dr)
Smaller off-leash, fenced-in dog park
Many picnic table on-site, and a wheelchair-accessible entrance
A short walk away from other parks and trails: Postridge Park, Nena Woods Park, Bayshire Woods Park
Next-door to a children’s playground, splash pad, and fields for soccer & baseball
Open weekdays from 9 am to 9 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Post Park (512 Macdonald Rd)
Fenced-in, leash-free dog park
Surrounded by trees (making it shady and cool) and a nice walking trail
Watering station on site
Garbage bins available
Plenty of parking available
Next-door to a small children’s playground and a soccer field
Open seven days a week, 8 am until 11 pm
Trafalgar Memorial Park (120 Oak Park Blvd)
Consists of two fenced-in lots: one for larger dogs (over 25lbs), another for smaller breeds (under 25lbs)
The larger area also features two big ponds, an active playground, and a community area
New trees have been planted
One picnic table in each lot
Open seven days a week, 24 hours a day
North Park (3250 Neyagawa Blvd)
A medium-sized fenced-in park that welcomes dogs of all sizes
Plenty of parking available
A short walk to Lions Valley Park (features hiking trails and a beautiful creek)
Open seven days a week, 8 am until 11 pm
Palermo Park (2345 Dundas St W.)
Large fenced-in dog park
Features a nice walking trail surrounding the park
No watering station on-site, so owners should bring a portable bowl and water for their dog
Open seven days a week, 8 am until 11 pm
Bronte
Shell Dog Park (3307 Lakeshore Rd W.)
Fenced-in, leash-free dog park
Many picnic tables
Watering station and doggie bags available on site
Many garbage bins right outside the leash-free area
Clean and well-maintained
Next-door to a tennis court, kids park, Shell Skateboard Park, and walking trails
Open seven days a week, 8 am until 11 pm
Burlington
King Road Leash-Free, at Bayview Park (1800 King Rd.)
This medium-sized fenced-in dog park welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes
The location provides beautiful views of Burlington and Burlington Bridge
Located in Bayview Park, along with a baseball diamond
Open seven days a week, from 8 am until 8 pm
Roly Bird Park (2203 Industrial St.)
Smaller fenced-in dog park, perfect for smaller dogs
Shaded by many large trees
Picnic tables on site
Plenty of parking available
Next-door to a baseball diamond, two sports fields, and a children’s playground
Open seven days a week, 24 hours a day
Norton Park (3035 Tim Dobbie Dr.)
Fenced-in dog park divided into two lots, one for larger dogs and the other for smaller dogs
Watering stations and garbage bins on site
Next-door to two artificial turf fields, a basketball court, skateboard park, and a children’s playground with splash pad
Plenty of parking available
Open seven days a week, 7 am until 10 pm
Mississauga
Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Rd. West)
One of the largest fully fenced off-leash dog parks in Ontario (22 acres for dogs to freely run around and play)
Chain link fence surrounds the perimeter
Shade provided by trees
A fully-functioning water station for dogs to cool down
Many hills for dogs to get some exercise
A couple picnic tables to rest and relax
Complimentary doggy bags at the entrance
Located along Lakeshore Road, the park provides a beautiful view of Lake Ontario
The broader Jack Darling Park includes hiking trails, picnic areas, a children’s playground, bathrooms, and splash pad
Today, Oakville Harbour at Sixteen Mile Creek and Bronte Harbour at Bronte Creek are known for their picturesque vistas of pleasure boats bobbing at their moorings. Oakville Harbour’s merchant history of grain-carrying schooners and Bronte’s story of intrepid fishing fleets are well known, but Oakville’s position as a centre for the design and construction of leading racing yachts is now all but forgotten. What is even more amazing is that this phenomenon happened here not once, but twice, decades apart.
In the 1870s yacht racing on the Great Lakes had become an increasingly popular pastime. Cecil G. Marlatt, the wealthy owner of the Oakville tannery and a keen sailor, commissioned local shipbuilder Captain James Andrew to build the Aggie. Launched in 1887, Aggie was named for C.G. Marlatt’s wife and became the most successful boat in Royal Canadian Yacht Club (RCYC) history with 83 victories, including beating designs from yacht design luminaries such as Fife, Watson, and Payne.
Sadly, the Aggie was driven ashore in a gale and wrecked at the Burlington lighthouse in 1945. Elements of the Aggie were saved, however, and her barometer, for example, was given to the Oakville Museum by the Marlatt family. C.G. Marlatt was very active in sailing on the Great Lakes and served as Commodore of RCYC. After his death in 1928, the club instituted a trophy dedicated to him and the Aggie as a memorial. The Oakville Museum holds a miniature ‘keeper’ trophy of the 1938 Marlatt championship, won by the renowned yacht Patricia.
Andrews would go on to build boats, often to a more famous designer’s plan, that would beat the best vessels any of the rival American clubs could field. These were skippered by Aemilius Jarvis who was a capable and confident sailor from a young age. He navigated Lake Ontario from Hamilton to Niagara-on-the-Lake to Whitby and back, solo in a dingy at the age of twelve. Jarvis was a consummate tactician and considered the greatest freshwater skipper of his time.
The Andrews / Jarvis combination first found fame in a match between the sloop Canada and Vencedor of the Lincoln Park Yacht Club in 1896. The US vs. Canadacontest would henceforth be known as Canada’s Cup and it continues to this day. After losing in the Beaver in 1899, Jarvis was to reclaim the cup against Cadillac in 1901, three wins to one, sailing Invader – another Andrews-built boat.
Decades after the retirement of James Andrews, cutting edge yacht building would return to Oakville. Erich Bruckmann, working out of his shop near Speers and Third Line, built the Cuthbertson and Cassian designed Red Jacket, the world’s first balsa-core composite racing yacht. Lighter and faster than its competitors, the Red Jacket became the first Canadian boat to win the famed Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC) in 1969.
Bruckmann was a founder of C & C Yachts and his Oakville plant became the C & C custom shop, turning out Canada’s Cup winners Evergreen, Manitou, and Magistri 82, which rivaled and surpassed the marks set by the Andrews yard of old.
Today, there are still C & C Yachts in the town’s harbours, less famous than Evergreen, perhaps, but they still win races.
However, it’s not all fiberglass and space-age composites down there. In a prominent mooring at the Oakville Club, you can find Anitra, the oldest wooden schooner on the Great Lakes. Designed by Montye Macrae and launched in 1926, Anitra carries gear from the Aggie, and the mainmast from Canada’s Cup winner Seneca. She also has a racing pedigree of her own with some 100 pennants and four championships, including the 1939 Edward Prince of Wales Cup. She is regularly sailed by her current owners Jamie Macrae and Jane Hawkrigg. Next time you’re down at the lakeshore, you might be lucky to see Anitra flying under full canvas.
If you’re looking to get involved in club sailing, the Oakville Club, Oakville Yacht Squadron (OYS), and Bronte Yacht Club all have sailing memberships. Some clubs offer inexpensive crew memberships which are a great way to see if racing is right for you. OYS has several popular kids’ camps and a borrow-a-boat program. Oakville’s National One Design Sailing Academy offers fully-accredited sailing instruction.
Even if you never intend to set foot on deck, Oakville and Bronte harbours are still great places to spend an afternoon. Both harbours have great shopping and dining nearby, plenty of walkable shoreline, and a plethora of beautiful boats to admire.
There’s no need to pack up and head to Florida to have fun over March Break. In and around the GTA, there are countless museums, camps, and activities the whole family will love. We’ve pulled together a list within an hour’s drive – pack some car snacks and hit the road!
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada (Toronto)
Ripleyaquariums.com/canada Practice your best fishy face! In the heart of downtown Toronto is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Experience life under the sea as you ride through the Dangerous Lagoon on the moving carpet, where sharks swim right over your head. There’s an indoor playground for the kids, Planet Jellies, interactive exhibits, and equally as much excitement for the kids-at-heart. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada at 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto
CN Tower (Toronto)
Cntower.ca Enjoy the beauty of the city from the highest point – the top of the CN Tower. A quick elevator ride will bring you over 500-metres up in the sky with 360-degree views of the city, a glass floor, and a restaurant. A unique way to see the City that all should experience. The CN Tower is located at 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
iFly Toronto (Oakville)
Iflytoronto.com Ready for lift-off. Come defy the law of gravity at iFLY Toronto. Enjoy indoor skydiving in a safe environment. Fly solo, with a group, or with your family and friends. Visit iFly Toronto’s Oakville location at 2007 Winston Park Drive, Oakville
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark (Niagara Falls)
Fallsviewwaterpark.com Three acres of fun-filled water activities located in the heart of Niagara Falls! Fallsview Indoor Waterpark has 16 waterslides, a wave pool, and the Beach House Rain Fortress with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. While perfect for the kids, there are adult-friendly activities, including adult-only jacuzzi tubs and indoor connections to hotels and casinos. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is located at 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls
Royal Ontario Museum(Toronto)
Rom.on.ca Go back to a time when the dinosaurs roamed the earth and learn about historic artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). In the museum’s permanent galleries, take photos with dinosaur sculptures, enjoy the beauty of precious metals and gems, and look through historic artifacts from around the world. During this March Break, the ROM will also be hosting Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic, which will feature original artifacts from the creation of Winnie-the-Pooh. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum at 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto
Oakville Museum(Oakville)
Oakville.ca/museum Explore, discover, and create at the Oakville Museum this Mark Break! Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate is offering a March Break camp from March 16-20 for ages 6 to 10. Take inspiration from the historical collection at the Oakville Museum as we explore wild watercolours, thrilling 3-D crafts, awesome abstract art and more. Challenge yourself to create a masterpiece! Register online to secure your spot. The Oakville museum is located at 8 Navy Street, Oakville
Joseph Brant Museum (Burlington)
Museumsofburlington.ca › joseph-brant Museum Re-opening after renovations in September 2019, Joseph Brant Museum offers more exhibitions and family fun. During March Break, the museum is offering a “sense”ational camp for kids to explore their five senses through a variety of activities, alongside a special exhibit running from February 1 to May 10, “Giants, Dragons & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures”. Joseph Brant Museum is located at 1240 North Shore Blvd East, Burlington
Royal Botanical Gardens(Burlington)
Rbg.ca Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the largest botanical garden in Canada. Its enchanting property showcases the natural beauty of Burlington’s trails and gardens while their extensive programming offers seasonal education and camps. Over March Break, visit the winter exhibit: “Wildlife Rescue” to learn all about endangered animals. Royal Botanical Gardens is located at 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
Hiking trails (Wherever your heart takes you)
Conservationhalton.ca/hiking Grab your hiking boots and bundle-up. Even in winter, you can enjoy many of our beautiful trails. Picturesque hiking trails can be found at popular locations such as Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area (7200 Appleby Line), Crawford Lake Conservation Area (3115 Conservation Road), and Hilton Falls (4985 Campbellville Road). Most parks have a selection of trails ranging from beginner to intermediate, although not all trails are maintained in winter months.
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Cambridgebutterfly.com Be in the centre of hundreds of butterflies as they fly around you at Cambridge’s Butterfly Conservatory. The Conservatory has more than 1,000 different species of butterflies from all over the world and more than 100 varieties of tropical plants, waterfalls, Chinese painted quails, red-eared slider turtles, and more. The Conservatory also has the Chrysalis Café, perfect for a lunch stop without leaving the beauty of the facility. The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is located at 2500 Kossuth Road,Cambridge
