Discover Burlington Ontario

March Break Activities in Burlington

2012-03-01T15:10:00.000-05:00

If you want to ensure you won’t hear “I’m bored”or “are we there yet?” from your children this March break then plan to spendsome time exploring all there is to see and do in Burlington. March Break is a great time for families toget out and enjoy activities and events together. Whether you are looking for a day trip,planning a “stay-cation” or visiting from afar there is something for everyonehere in our beautiful city.

Your kids will be thrilled to head to one of themany maple syrup festivals in Burlington/Halton where they can experiencefirst-hand the process of tapping maple trees to the creation of maple syrup(educational and delicious!)

Maple @ Bronte Creek

Fresh Ontario maplesyrup begins flowing at Bronte CreekProvincial Park on March 3^rd, when the park’s annual Maple SyrupFestival gets under way. The maple syrupfestivities are open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. every weekend inMarch and from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily through March Break (March12-16th). Enjoy a guided tour of the Maple Lane, where 1890s costumedinterpreters demonstrate how to tap maple trees, make maple syrup and maplesugar. View artifacts in the maple museumor tour the 100-year-old Spruce Lane Farmhouse. Be sure to browse through the maple productsand souvenirs available in the Maple Gift Shoppe and pick up a bottle of syrupto take home. Hop on a wagon that will take you to a heated pancake house whereyou can enjoy fresh, hot pancakes with pure maple syrup and sausages ($),served up throughout the festival hours. They even make their own Fresh Maple Sugar and Maple Taffy! Visit their website for more information.

Maple Festival @ Mountsberg

Conservation Halton’s Mountsbergand Crawford Lake both feature Maple SyrupFestivals weekends, holidays and March Break. At Crawford Lake you can viewNative style sweet water presentations and taste complimentary samples ofcornbread dripping with pure maple syrup. While you are there explore the 15thcentury Iroquoian Village and reconstructed Longhouses, 19km of hiking trailsand the beautiful and rare Crawford Lake. Kids will enjoy free craft making anda discovery hunt with prizes. MapleProducts are for sale in the Gift Shop and snowshoe rentals are available(weather permitting). In March, Mountsbergtransforms into Maple Town. Visitors cansee how sap is magically transformed into sweet, sticky syrup and smell thefragrant steam rising from simmering kettles. You can learn the secrets ofmaple candy making and taste FREE candy samples (my personal favourite!). Enjoypiping hot pancakes smothered in fresh maple syrup ($) then stay to enjoy aguided horse drawn wagon ride through the sugar bush ($). Kids will love thechance to slide, climb, jump and run in the Play Barn or visit Mountsberg'sresident raptors in live demonstrations (12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm). If you need to burn off the calories fromyour pancake breakfast, take a walk along the wildlife walkway and view bison,eagles, hawks and owls. Be sure to giveyourself plenty of time to visit both these parks as there is lots to do.

Skiing @ Glen Eden

With 14 runs, it’s easy to go on a ski getawayright here at home! Glen Eden is a greatplace to ski, snowboard and they for those that don’t want to hit the slopes,there is a tube park with 4 chutes. Fora deal consider the “MarchMadness” ski or snowboard packages, including a beginner’s lift ticket,equipment rental, and lesson; starting at $29.99. Check out Glen Eden’s websitefor park conditions and more details.

If you are headed to Glen Eden make sure you keepyour eyes open for the MapleviewCentre on the slopes. The Mapleview Style patrol will be patrolling theslopes at Glen Eden to kick off March Break. Put your style to work for a chance to win 1 of 10, $100 Mapleview GiftCards. Show them what Mapleview storebest represents your style and have your photo snapped by their Style Patrolpaparazzi on March 10th or 11th from 11AM-6PM to enter. For full detailsvisit www.mapleviewcentre.com

@RBG Chocolate: The Exhibition

If you have a sweettooth, Chocolate: The Exhibition atthe Royal Botanical Gardens can teach you everything there is to know aboutChocolate! You can see chocolate startas cacao and watch it become your favourite treats, while you learn about itshistory and mythology in this family-friendly interactive exhibit. While the exhibition runs 7-days a week untilApril 15th, there are also specialty chocolate events covering everything fromDIY chocolate spa treatments to dessert-making. And if that still isn’t enough for the chocoholics out there, you cantake some time to explore the 18 locations on the Burlington Chocolate Trail.

Ireland House @ Oakridge Farm

Museums of Burlington are agreat place to visit and take in some local history. Ireland House at Oakridge Farm interprets the livesof the Ireland family, the historic farmstead, buildings, gardens and contentsas they were acquired and used by the Ireland family c1830 to the 1900s. TheJoseph Brant Museum will beoffering admission, a heritage craft, and refreshment for the inclusive priceof $15 at their “Workshop Wonders”, scheduled twice daily on March 13th and 14th.You can also explore the museums exhibitions, interactive displays, a hands-ondiscovery gallery and visible storage. Burlington’s Joseph Brant Museum, tellsthe important story of the historical founding settlement and development ofthe Burlington area. If you can’t makeit to the museums drop by our TourismBurlington visitor centre and pick up a copy of “Joe Jr.” a heritagenewspaper for kids full of interesting stories and fun activities.

The Burlington Art Centreis agreat place to visit as part of a family outing to downtown Burlington orSpencer Smith Park, with ongoing exhibitions, the lush Conservatory, the ArtEtc Gallery Shop and the Shoreline Cafe for snacks or a lightlunch. The best part is admission isalways FREE!

The library is agreat place to spend some time with your kids whether it’s choosing a greatbook to read or finding a DVD to watch, it’s free and fun! This March Break Burlington Public Libraries are hosting eventswith something for everyone. Drop by to listen to stories, create art from anold book, tie-dye a pillow case, make your own gummy sushi, or even see a magicshow! Event times are listed at the BPL website.

Burlington Mall isinviting kids to join them in centre court from March 12-18th to play at ourplay centre. Kids can get creative; making Play-doh® characters and playinggames on-line. The play centre is openMon – Sat 10am to 4pm and Sun noon to 4pm. When you are done playing spend some time checking out the new springarrivals in stores throughout the mall or relax and enjoy a coffee or lunch attheir food court.

If you are one of themany parents that have to work during the March Break there are lots of daycamps available from sports to creative arts and some have programming forchildren as young as 3 years old.

The City of Burlington offersfull week and day camps with a wide variety of activities, from fun to fitness,including everything from Playdium visits to drop-in basketball. The popular Babysitter Training program,certified by the Canada Safety Council, is also offered March 14th and 15th. Registration may be completed online via RecExpress.

@Burlington Art Centre

Give yourchildren an artistic March Break. The BurlingtonArt Centre has half-day morning and afternoon art classes running allweek! Whether they go to Art Camp for Kinders (from 4 to 6 years), theMixed Bag for kids (from 6 to 8 and 8 to 10 year) or drawing, photographyor pottery for the 11+ set, it will be a great week for them and for you! Go tothebac.ca/classes for moreinformation or call 905-632-7796, ext. 307. Register by age group, foreither a morning or afternoon session. (There is no supervised lunchperiod).

Museumsof Burlington- Ireland HouseMuseum is proud to offer the “String in Spring” camp this March Break. Kids up to age 12 will engage in games andactivities all about string, yarn, and rope, all on the historic grounds ofIreland House at Oakridge Farm! Registration is available on a day-to-day orweekly basis. Supported by the Department of Canadian Heritage, the JosephBrant Museum is celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee with “CampJubilee”, a two-day camp featuring royal history, fun, games, and of course,tea! Camp Jubilee runs March 15th and 16th, free of charge, so contact Museumsof Burlington

before all the spots are gone!

Ifyou’re looking for something different this March break, the Royal Botanical Gardens offers several week longDiscovery Camps for children ages 4-13. These programs combine outdoor adventures, lessons about nature and theenvironment, and fun kid-friendly activities like crafts and games. These programs require pre-registration, sobe sure to visit the RBGwebsite for details. To tie into their chocolate exhibit, the RBG offersday-long camps on March 13th and 15th focused on chocolate, with anenvironmental and historical twist.

Cedar Spring Health &Racquet Club – ideal for juniors and tiny tots looking for fun and fitness.

BurlingtonGymnastics Club – offers full and half day programs with gymnasticstraining and more

PrestigeCircus & Gymnastics School – are perfect way for new or interestedchildren to try circus and gymnastics.

Whatever you chooseto do, we hope you have a lot of fun. Remember we are open 9am-4pm daily at the Tourism Burlington Visitor Centreto assist you and you can find us on twitter and facebook.

Road Races in Burlington

2012-02-28T09:44:00.001-05:00

Aweekend long celebration of fitness, food and fun is set for March 2-5, 2012,here in Burlington. Runners and walkersare coming to race in the Chilly Half Marathon& Frosty 5K Sunday March 3, 2012. This race has become one of the bestand largest half marathons in Canada and it’s made Burlington the place to racefor many athletes.

Withsuch great perks as a beautiful route along Lakeshore Road, a technical jacketincluded in every race kit for the first 4,200 to register (yes that iscorrect, a cool jacket gratis) and free beer and chili after the race, whowouldn’t want to be here! As far as I’m concerned, free beer is enough of alure. Organizers from VR Pro have really worked hard to make the Chilly Half avery fun event.

Whatis really amazing this year is the half marathon walk was sold out first! Thisis a interesting trend to pay attention to. So many runners or former runnersstill want to compete in races but aren’t running anymore. Whether it’sinjuries or just a desire to try something different, power walking is becomingreally popular.

Havingpower walked a half marathon myself, I can tell you that this is a race youtrain for just a diligently as if you were running it. These walkers move fast!Last year, the winning time for the top runner was 1.07 and the top walker, afemale by the way, came in at 2.22.45.Do the math and you’ll see these walkers are moving at quite a clip, with some averagingabout 6:30 minutes per km.

Theweekend’s festivities starts on Thursday, March 1 and run until Sunday.Participants can pick up their race kits and visit the race expo at the Waterfront Hotel. There isplenty to see, do and eat including a free short fun run on Saturday morningwith great guest speakers like Mark Sullivan a marathon pro and coach and apasta party at Paradiso (try to say that three times fast) for $35 on Saturdayevening. Post race, there are numerous Stagg Chili and Carlsberg beer partiesat various restaurants downtown including Beaver & Bulldog, The Dickens,Eatalia, Paradiso, Pepperwood Bistro, Purple Heather Gastro Pub, The QueensHead, The Rude Native, Honey West, La Costa Nuova & Big Tomato and The SlyeFox Pub. Look for the running chili pepper logo at participating restaurants.The awards will be presented at the Burlington Performing Arts Centreand there are some really good prizes.

Therace starts at Brant Street and Lakeshore, in front of the Waterfront Hotel.It’s a straight run, pardon the pun, out to Burloak Drive and back. Organizersget the disruption caused by traffic closures so this year, the finish linewill stay open for 3 hours and 45 minutes. If runners or walkers are behindwhen police open the roads, they will need to move to the sidewalk. To keepeveryone happy residents and spectators, can get a free coffee at refreshmentstations at Guelph Line and Lakeshore and Walkers Line and Lakeshore courtesyof Coffee Culture.

About70% of the athletes registered for the Chilly are from out of town. They arecoming from such cities as London, Barrie, Peterborough and Whitby and will befilling up our hotels, dining in our restaurants and shopping in our stores.What a nice boost to our economy and a great chance to show off our beautifulcity.

Ifrunning or walking 21.7 km is not your thing, there is still time to sign upfor the Frost 5km race until February 29, 2012. This is a wonderful opportunityto get kids and parents moving and everyone can enjoy the activities after therace including prizes in numerous categories, starting at 10 years of age andunder.

Thecharity benefiting from this years race is Cancer Care at Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital. Giving back toa charity that directly benefits our residents has always been a part of theChilly. In the past, the race has raised money for equipment used in breastcancer detection and last year, a portable ultrasound machine was donated to JoBrant. The target this year is to raise money to start a program for clinicaltrials for cancer patients at Jo Brant. Anyone who raises $500.00 towardsJoseph Brant Hospital gets a free entry into the race.

Amere three weeks later, is the grand dame of road races, the prestigious Around the Bay Road Race takesplace on Sunday March 25, 2012 in Hamilton. This is the oldest road race inNorth America, first run on Christmas Day in 1894.

Notfor the faint of heart, the course is challenging and draws elite runners suchas Olympic gold medalists and Boston Marathon winners including Tommy Longboatand Jerome Drayton.

Thereare four categories for this very popular event, a 30km walk/run, a 3 personrelay team, a two person relay team and a 5km run and all been sold out sinceFebruary 6! That means 10,500 runners and walkers will be racing that day alongwith hundreds coming out to watch and cheer. Everyone who finishes the racereceives a medal of gold, bronze or silver based on their time. There are cashprizes for the top five male and female runners overall and the top three maleand female finishers in the masters (40+) categories. There is also $1000 upfor grabs to the male and female finisher who sets a new course record.

Therace starts on York Boulevard, just west of Copps Coliseum and followsHamilton’s natural harbor as the race is run in both Hamilton and Burlington. It finishes indoors atCopps Coliseum which is great for fans and families who want to see the finishin comfort.

Thelast part of the race is always the hardest and there are some entertainingcharacters along the route to keep your spirits up. On Spring Gardens Road,just before the last and longest hill, there is a man who plays “We are theChampions” and high-fives the runners. Once you make it to Woodland Cemetery,there is a person dressed up as the Grim Reaper to cheer you on! Runners note,the race is not over here!

Therewill be a two day Healthand Fitness Expo at Copps Coliseum free for participants and the public. Itopens Friday, March 23, from 1-7pm and Saturday March 24, from 10-5pm.

TheRace Around the Bay has been a charitable event since 2005 and all moniesraised will go towards patient care and research at St Joseph’s HealthcareHamilton. Although the race is sold out, charity spots are available for thosewho raise a designated amount or donate to St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation.

FranceFontana Hart

Food, Fitness, Fashion & Fun!

2012-02-23T11:26:00.000-05:00

Onceagain this year my friend and I are planning to attend the Burlington Women’s Show sinceit is a do not miss annual girls outing! This year we are eager to see some of the new features at the showincluding a fashion show hosted by style expert for City Line Lynn Spence andthe volunteer models from the community. There are going to be interactive demonstrations including Moksa Yoga,so wear something comfortable! To top itoff the event is going to be M.C.’d by Annette Ham CH TV personality.

Weenjoy having hair consultations, seeing new fashions, trying various foods andbeverages from local restaurants and learning about new products. In the past there have been so many sampleswe were glad we didn’t eat lunch! Here are some of the restaurants confirmed toparticipate this year which we are keen to check out; Rayhoon, Jack Astors,Water St. Cooker, Gator Teds, Coffee Culture, and Tim Horton’s. Shopping, of course is always apriority for us and we usually bring home some great items for gifts (or treat ourselves)such as jewellery and other accessories.

Wealready have our tickets as the event is coming up soon, Sunday February 26^thfrom 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Tansley Woods Community Centre. We found that it is best to take the shuttlefrom Mainway Arena, as the parking lot last year was full when we arrived. Visit the website for more highlightsand details on how to get tickets.

Needan added incentive? The first 200attendees will receive a gift bag full of goodies, samples and offers.

Bea Burlington Ambassador and invite your friends and family to attend the showwith you. See you at the show.

-TourBurlGirl

Whileour co-worker and friend are out exploring the Women’s Show, I will be gettingtogether with friends to enjoy a Tasteof Burlington. This prix fixeculinary event runs until March 11th at twenty-five of Burlington’s finestrestaurants.

Tasteof Burlington runs both a winter and a summer programme which means I alwayshave a great reason to get out and try my favourite restaurants and we try toget out to at least one new one each season. This year so far we are planning visits to LaCosta Nuova (I must try theLobster Mac & Cheese) and Martini House. Last summer we visited Honey West and Paradiso which are both greatchoices and we have visited The Stone House, Eatalia, Pepperwood Bistro, SiamDish and more over the years. We arealways impressed by the quality of the food, the generous portions sizes (noskimping here) and creativity of the menus which get better every time!

Thiswinter we are happy to see new additions to the Taste of Burlington includingRayhoon Persian Eatery, Local Eatery & Refuge, Earls, and the Garden Caféat the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Red Canoe Bistro

Likemany diners these days we are always conscious of trying to incorporate as muchlocal Ontario food into our dining as possible and this winter many of theTaste of Burlington restaurants are adding local Ontario ingredients to theirmenus including Downtown Bistro, Jake’s Grill & Oyster House, Local Eatery& Refuge, Martini House, Paradiso, Queen’s Head Pub, Red Canoe Bistro, RudeNative Bistro & Lounge, Spencer’s at the Waterfront, The Water St. Cookerand West Plains Bistro. Look for theFoodland Ontario logo on the website and menus.

Forthose with a sweet tooth be sure to visit Chocolate: The Exhibition at theRoyal Botanical Gardens, then consider lunch at the Garden Cafe or head downthe road to the West Plains Bistro for lunch or dinner. For those exploring theBurlington Chocolate Trail there are lots of stops along the way close toparticipating Taste restaurants that will feature chocolate on their menusincluding the downtown core (Alex Restaurant, Beaver & Bulldog, MartiniHouse, Paradiso, Queen’s Head Pub, Rayhoon Persian Eatery, Red Canoe Bistro,Rude Native Bistro, and the Water Street Cooker.) In mid-town you can enjoyLocal Eatery & Refuge, Jake’s Grill & Oyster House or Walker’s FishMarket and in North Burlington be sure to head to The Purple Heather.

Whateveryou choose be sure to go hungry, with 3 full-courses (appetizer, entree and dessert)you may need to bring a “doggy-bag” home. Lunches are $15 or $20 and dinners range from $30, $35 or $40. For individual menus and pricing be sure tovisit the website and make your reservation today.

EatWell!

Winter Fun in Burlington

2012-02-14T11:31:00.002-05:00

I havea good friend who lives in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He always jokes that winter lasts eightmonths of the year here. I usually rollmy eyes and remind him he’s totally wrong, but I have to admit, once I thinkabout it for a few minutes, there are many years when it seems to last at leastsix! I can name plenty of times I’veseen snow in both November and April! That’sa long time to hibernate indoors, which is what we usually end up doing untilthe leaves start sprouting on the trees again. Given how much we love parks, long walks and barbecues, the season cansometimes pass by painfully slow.

Thisyear we decided to stop complaining and we defiantly declared that we would notbe deterred from our weekly family outings any longer! As soon as the snow fell, we began to exploreall the great winter activities Burlington has to offer. We invested in some skates, some long johnsand some solid gloves, and once we got started, we couldn’t believe how muchwe’d been missing!

Playbarn at Bronte Creek

It’seasy to rely a bit too heavily on the television when you have young kids andthe temperature is freezing, but there’s really no need when you have excitingplaces like BronteCreek Park open all year long! Asidefrom their big outdoor skating rink, the kids can also run around, climb, slideand spin on tire swings in the children’s barn no matter what the weather. I’m always delighted when they fall asleep atnight in 2 minutes thanks to having gotten a little fresh air andexercise! Bronte’s children’s barn willpractically guarantee that every time! Bundle up though – it’s covered, but it’s not heated!

Sledding at Lowville

Tobogganingis a blast no matter what your age at Lowville Park. It’s not too steep for beginners, but it’sstill high enough to thrill your senses with the joy of speeding down! I never get tired of that feeling! There’s a great kids park right beside thehill, and trails to hike along the nearby creek.

Justup the street from Lowville Park you’ll find the CrawfordLake Conservation Area, where you can enjoy 19km of snowshoe and crosscountry skiing trails. There’s also areconstructed 15^th century Iroquoian village to explore in anyseason. It’s amazing to imagine howtough it would have been to brave the winter elements back then. A great history lesson for anyone who loveslearning!

Skiing at Glen Eden

I trulylove to ski, but I haven’t been in years since the ordeal of driving at leastan hour or two, just to fight the weekend chairlift crowds, is something I’venever found appealing. I seem to forgetfar too often that we have a great ski hill along the escarpment at Glen Eden! With well-lit night skiing, it’s even a great option after work any dayof the week! They have lots of lessonoptions, from groups to private instruction, so even beginners can enjoy thisinvigorating winter activity! Next yearI am promising myself to enroll in snowboard lessons. It just looks way too fun!

TheBurlington waterfront continues to be a social hub for events all winter long,and skating at DiscoveryLanding next to Spencer Smith Park is fun for the whole family. You really can’t beat the view! Afterwards there are plenty of places to graba hot chocolate or a delicious meal along Brant Street and the downtown core.

Hiking at RBG

One ofmy favourite places to go for a long walk starts at The Cherry Hill Gate at TheRoyal Botanical Gardens. If you love nature,you’ll want to bring your camera every time you hike here! I’ve spent hours in the woods there at times,looping around the water on pleasantly challenging trails. There’s tons of wildlife to see, and my kidsare always thrilled when little chickadees eat birdseed right out of theirhands! If you’re skeptical of how brave& friendly those little birds are, check out the video accompanying thisarticle and you’ll see the proof!

Winterin Burlington Ontario: so many fun things to do!

Victoria Hughes

Family Day Activities in Burlington 2012

2012-02-08T09:32:00.002-05:00

It’s almost here – the second statutory holiday of the year and a day meant to share with your loved ones – Family Day 2012! Burlington is a great place to celebrate Family Day, with a wide variety of events and activities you are sure to find something to please.

For families looking to spend the day outdoors you need look no further than our local parks. If the snow flies before the 20^thyou can partake in tobogganing, snowshoeing and

cross-country skiing but rest assured that even without the white stuff there is plenty to see and do!

Baby goats at Mountsberg

Conservation Halton parks are a great place to walk, hike, birdwatch and enjoy nature. At Mountsberg you can enjoy all things cute and cuddly with the arrival of baby goats and lambs to the Cameron barnyard! Moms and babies are all doing fine and are looking forward to visitors. Why not spend the day with the babies, play in the play barn and take a horse-drawn wagon ride ($) through the fields and forests. Then visit the Raptor Centre and take in the Birds of Prey show, this year you can also visit the Royal Ontario Museum’s spectacular Northern Owls exhibit being hosted at the park until February 23rd. Crawford Lake is home to a re-constructed 15^th century Iroquoian Village which you can explore or as part of their Season of the Snowsnake join the staff for a guided tours of the at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, try a guided winter survival hike at 2pm and create a craft or enjoy a discovery hunt from 10am to 4pm. While the ground may be bare here, if you head to Glen Eden there is plenty of snow for you to ski, snowboard and tube on. Look for special family day activities at the snow park to be announced soon. Check out the video of our guest blogger Victoria Hughes and her daughter enjoying a private kinderski lesson.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park is another amazing location for enjoying the outdoors. You can hike the trails, skate on the outdoor rink (weather permitting), visit the farm animals and explore the children’s play barn. If you bring along your four legged friend they can run themselves out in the designated leash free areas. There will also be special family day tours of the 1900’s farmhouse from 11am-3pm.

Lace up and head down to the Waterfront at Downtown Burlington. Rotary Centennial Pond is open daily for skating from 10am-10pm (weather permitting) and the best part – it’s FREE! While you are there you can also stroll the waterfront and the kids will love the playground in any weather. Post skate, consider heading to one of the many downtown eateries for a hot chocolate or bite to eat.

Prefer your activities indoors? The City of Burlington parks and recreation have some great family day activities planned. Visit Tansley Woods and purchase a Family Day pass that allows you to participate in 3 activities at the Centre. Activities run from 9:30am-4:30pm (see the website for schedule and activities). Other drop-in programs will also be available including skating at Appleby Ice Centre and swimming at Aldershot & Angela Coughlan pools. Times and locations on the website. Ever thought of joining the circus? Prestige Circus & Gymnastics School is having a family day free event. Bring the kids and try out age appropriate circus skills and gymnastics. Details online.

Facepainting at Kids Day

Looking for a family fun event? The Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore presents Burlington’s Kids Day. This family friendly event runs from 9am-5pm at Corpus Christie Secondary School with a pancake breakfast at 8:30am. Purchase a play all day wristband($15/child, $5/toddler under 2) and let the kids enjoy a wide variety of fun activities including professional entertainers, arts and crafts, sporting activities, inflatables and more! Note: some additional activities are available at a nominal cost. See the website for a complete listing. There is food on-site so you don’t have to leave when the “hungrys” start. I have visited this event in the past and it is very busy so be sure to pack some patience as the more popular activities may have line-ups. It is a great way to spend the day and I highly recommend it – just be sure to visit the website for all the details on things like parking, strollers, changing areas, etc. before you go.

Checking out the Chocolate Exhibition at the RBG

A sweet way to spend family day is to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens for Chocolate: The Exhibition (running to April 15). In addition to the amazing interactive exhibit from the Museum of Chicago there are numerous activities for kids of all ages. Start with the chocolate chase, a self-guided scavenger hunt that can be traded in for a reward at the marketplace. Visit the interpretive programs full of stories, activities, chocolate making and more. Be sure to include a stop at the Gardens Café for a sweet lunch or snack while visiting. Inside you can also explore the year round gardens and take in the Glass under Glass exhibits. When you are done there are loads of great hiking/walking trails to explore and the birds at The Gardens are famously friendly (we hear they like sunflower seeds in the shell best).

For those looking for a culinary delight consider the self-guided Burlington Chocolate Trail, a decadent day of all things chocolate in Burlington. Check out the video of our day on the trail. Or consider prix fixe dining with a Taste of Burlington (Feb. 20-Mar.11) at twenty-five of Burlington’s finest restaurants. You are sure to find something to please your palate.

Tourism Burlington will be closed on Family Day but we are always available on the web, via Facebook or Twitter.

Whatever you do, we hope you enjoy the day. Have fun, play hard, eat well & enjoy!

Romantic Things to do in Burlington

2012-02-01T08:58:00.000-05:00

Flowers. Chocolates. Dinner. Romantic gifts and thingsto do always seem to be limited to these options. With our lives getting busier than ever, it’shard to find time to go the extra mile and come up with a unique gift idea orplan an inventive and romantic getaway to show that special someone in yourlife that you’re even more awesome than they thought!

If youneed a little help, you’re in luck! Restassured that Burlington has more variety than a double-layered box ofchocolates when it comes to romantic things to do! We’ve got you covered at every price point,whether you want a simple gift idea or a romantic overnight getaway!

Romantic Restaurants inBurlington: Word to the wise: this is the time to pick arestaurant you don’t usually go to, and especially one you don’t take the kids to. Because you can go there anytime. A night of romance requires a quieter,cozier, candlelit atmosphere with attentive service and a menu that has alittle sophistication! No restauranthas a better view in Burlington than Spencer’sat the Waterfront, with windows overlooking Lake Ontario and an impressivelycreative menu that is always worth the splurge! Or grab a cozy table for 2 in downtown Burlington at romantic favouriteslike La Costa, The Alex, Red Canoe Bistro or Rude Native. If you love a classic surf & turf, try The Carriage House, Lord Nelson Fine Dining or Walker’s Fish Market. For the high rollers out there who want oneof the most inventive culinary nights of your life, you’ll be blown away byChef Matteo Paonessa at Blacktree. This stellar restaurant was recently given(very rare) topmarks by Toronto Star restaurant critic Amy Pataki. Speaking from personal experience, it is anamazing gastronomic adventure you’ll never forget! Just make sure you call for a reservation, asweekends and special occasions always see those tables fill up fast!

Hotel Packages in Burlington: Whether you’re local, or coming in from outof town, the romance factor is always elevated when you stay overnight at anice hotel. Getting away from yourgrowing to-do-list or the many requests of your delightful children is all thereason you need to take a little break from home! Burlington offers many romantic hotel optionswith great values. You can’t beat theview at The Waterfront Hotel. Watching the sun come up over Lake Ontario isa great way to start any morning. Withso many restaurants within walking distance, it’s also extremelyconvenient! Their RoyalBotanical Gardens package would be a great date experience, whether youwant to check out a current exhibition, or go for a long walk through the manybeautiful trails and gardens! The newlyrenovated Holiday Inn is a greatoption and they have great romanticpackages with dinner options and sleep in Sundays! HiltonGarden Inn has a great Romance Package with early check-in,breakfast and late checkout! Or askabout the HomewoodSuites Please Do Not Disturb package including complimentarybreakfast, in-room sparkling wine or cider upon arrival, a box of chocolatesand a welcome gift! The great rates at Comfort Inn and Best Western round out some greatoptions for your romantic overnight getaway in Burlington!

Blair Lancaster Spa
Photo Credit: BankoMedia

Spas in Burlington: whether you both want to gofor a romantic couples massage, or if it’s more about giving mom a little timeaway from the kids on her own, the luxurious spas in Burlington will get thejob done! Book something special or graba gift card as a great gift at favourites like Rosewater Spa, Blair Lancaster, or the 2011Burlington Post Reader’s Choice award-winner, Casablanca Salon & Spa Oasis.

Unique Date Ideas: There are plenty of romanticand fun things to do in Burlington all year long! Stop by the sweet spots on the Burlington Chocolate Trailfor delicious samples and great deals, take in the artistic creations at The Burlington Art Centre, or get tickets for a memorableperformance at the new Burlington PerformingArts Centre.

Cool and unique Romantic GiftIdeas: Localmerchants in Burlington have no limits when it comes to the best gift ideas! I’ll break it down for both genders so itcouldn’t be easier! They may be classicchoices, but the quality and original spin you’ll find at these retailersguarantees to impress!

Top Romantic Gifts for Guys (and where to get ‘em):

Watches: Always great selection & prices at The Bay.
Great clothes: Scriveners and Jeff’s Guy Shop have something for every guy that will elevate the stylish factor in their closet considerably!
Chocolates: Walkers Chocolates has great guy-themed chocolate items like golf clubs and personalized chocolate bars.
His favourite drink: check out special offers at the LCBO! Great values and they never go to waste!

Top Romantic Gifts for Girls (and where to get ‘em):

Perfume: There’s plenty to choose from at Sephora in Mapleview Mall, or you can grab something truly unique & luxurious at Saltridges downtown (plus they have the best red gift bags)!
Lingerie: Bocana Boutique has been around for 25 years for good reason, and not far from there is The Black Pearl Lingerie Boutique!
Gift Sets: Joelle’s always has a great selection of cool gift ideas. Every girl loves the Hanky Panky lingerie line they carry, plus who wouldn’t appreciate these adorable ‘true love’ coupons for things like breakfast in bed & control of the tv remote!
Chocolates: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory at Burlington Mall rocks!
Flowers: Euro Style Flower Market does really beautiful & modern bouquets.

Of coursethe most important thing to remember on any romantic occasion is to have funand not worry so much about the cost or the details! Celebrating someone important to you caneasily be done with just a simple card from Shopper’s Drug Mart, or a uniqueand sassy one sure to be found at FairhomeInteriors, or Ohh!! Beautiful Things. I promise you that a genuine and personalnote in a great card will be just as appreciated as any expensive gift or fancydinner. Of course if you can manage allthree, I say go for it and reap the many rewards of gratitude! ©

Victoria Hughes

Discovering the Burlington Chocolate Trail

2012-01-24T11:08:00.000-05:00

This year a brand new event was launched in Burlington to highlight some of the best artisans our city has to offer. I’m not sure everyone fully understands the skill & passion that goes into the culinary arts, but after spending a day touring many stops on the Burlington Chocolate Trail, I’m convinced that these skilled professionals are long overdue for creative recognition!

Now we all know chocolate is best enjoyed with a good friend, so I grabbed my girl Krista (no arm-twisting required!) and we headed out bright and early to get in as much chocolate as the day would allow!

Photo Credit: BankoMedia

Our day began at Cupid’s Cupcakes (Walkers Line & Dundas) where we were treated to some history about the origins of red velvet cake (fascinating), and sampled some of the best cupcakes I’ve ever had. Flavours like Commitmint (chocolate minty goodness) and Raspberry Beret did not disappoint! Clearly eating breakfast was a giant mistake on my part.

Photo Credit: BankoMedia

Next we were treated to the extensive chocolate counter at the impressively renovated Longo’s next door, where their in-house chocolatier showed us how she makes some of their most decadent creations. Chocolate-dipped strawberries, marshmallow & white chocolate bark, fresh caramel & pecan ‘turtles’, and Peruvian chocolate truffles left us barely able to walk. I was compelled to grab a carton of milk to help wash it all down! Even their artisanal bread shop has delicious chocolate bread! Did I mention yet that breakfast was a giant mistake?

Our third stop was Mrs. B’s Gifthouse on Fairview Street, in business for more than 20 years now. The charming owner, Angelo, offered us their always-free coffee, and we watched the lovely Paola make biscotti with orange zest and apricot from scratch. I never realized how they got made into those perfectly sized long, slender shapes until now! Aside from the gift baskets they specialize in up front, the back of the store is where the tasty magic happens, as Angelo’s team drizzled chocolate on biscotti, licorice, and their signature chocolate bark. By now it was lunchtime, and we all agreed there would clearly be no need. If it’s at all possible to overdose on chocolate, we were precariously close to doing so!

Photo Credit: BankoMedia

Fortunately our next stop gave our sweetened stomachs a welcome reprieve, as we headed to the Blair Lancaster Spa downtown. I’ve known about Blair’s spa for many years, but today was my first time experiencing it in person. I have to tell you, the chocolate pedicure we enjoyed was the best pedicure of our lives. Who knew a chocolate footbath was detoxifying? The peach infused paraffin treatment didn’t hurt either! The atmosphere was relaxing, the staff was skilled and knowledgeable, and we left feeling refreshed and invigorated. My feet haven’t been this soft since I was a baby, I’m certain of that. I will be heading back for an organic spray tan before my April vacation, and saving up for some microdermabrasion treatments too!

If you’re downtown, you have to make time to stop by Casteleyn Belgian Chocolatiers on Brant Street. A family-run business (by a Belgian family who has a genuinely Belgian-trained chocolate maker in their midst), they only use the finest natural ingredients like Belgian chocolate (I suppose that’s a bit obvious), real cream, and fine European liqueurs. Be sure to enjoy a free sample while you’re on the Chocolate Trail! Their hot chocolate is a stand-out, made with shaved Belgian chocolate, steamed milk, and no syrups. Delicious!

Photo Credit: BankoMedia

Our last stop was one of my favourite restaurants in town, The Martini House. If you’ve never tried their Asian Nachos, you’re really missing out! Their Chocolate Trail offerings were outstanding, as Krista enjoyed a not-too-sweet martini (just perfect) as I downed a giant icy drink aptly named Death By Chocolate. I didn’t die, but it sure was heavenly! Our layered dessert was the perfect ending to a wonderfully sweet & relaxing day!

The Chocolate Trail has many other stops to enjoy, with local vendors offering special creations & generous discounts as well. The cupcakes we bought to bring home for our envious families were 25% off, any spa treatments booked at Blair Lancaster involving chocolate are 15% off, Longos has free samples to enjoy, and Mrs. B’s will give you 15% off if you say “I love Burlington”. You can also grab a gluten-free mile high brownie from Kind Food on John Street, and get samples at chocolatiers like Purdy’s in Mapleview Mall and The Garden Café at the Royal Botanical Gardens (where an excellent exhibition on the history of chocolate starts on January 28^th). Just be sure to mention you’re on the Chocolate Trail and you’ll be well taken care of!

All in all you’ll find five chocolatiers, five restaurants, six artisan food producers and two spas to visit on the trail (grab the full details here). If you can ever fit them all in one day, I’d be very impressed! I suggest taking your time though, and savouring each one.

If you know any chocoholics, this is a great way to spend time with them. A girls day out, a special Mother’s Day treat, or a fabulous date (especially around Valentine’s Day!) are all completely justifiable reasons to treat yourself to such wild decadence!

Just take my advice first: don’t eat a big breakfast that day J

-Victoria Hughes

Heritage Day Commemorates War of 1812-14 Bi-Centennial

2012-01-18T16:02:00.000-05:00

The Bi-Centennial of the War of 1812-14 is quickly coming upon us. June is the official start of the 200 years of peace that we are commemorating. And yes, the commemorations will continue until 2014! Most of us do not know what the significance of this event means. I admit, I didn’t either. But I have been slowly piecing information together, learning from historians, educators and colleagues. This event was ultimately what has made us Canadians. It is a big deal!

Imagine what Burlington looked like. It was 1812! It did not look anything like it does today, and in fact it was not even called Burlington, at the time. It was, and is still known as a safe place, a place of trade, a cross roads, a landmark, a resting point and a refuge - a destination for food, shelter, and shared resources.

There were many nations involved in this War. First Nations peoples, British, Americans, Loyalists and locals were called to duty. This War played a significant role in the shaping of Canada, the United States of America, and Six Nations, and their peoples. The end of the war marked the beginning of 200 years of peace between our nations.

One of the upcoming events, where you can learn more about how we are Canadians, this War’s events, the people of this location and period of time, is the Burlington Heritage Day event, being held at the Burlington Public Library on Saturday February 4th, 2012. The theme this year is the War of 1812.

The day’s seminars include:

· “War of 1812 and the Six Nations” Zig Misiak, Historical Re-enactor, Native Studies Curriculum Developer

· “Burlington Connections to the War of 1812-14” Daphne Smith, Museums of Burlington

· “The Brants in Burlington” Jane Irwin, Burlington Historian

· “2nd Regiment of the York Militia; researching the men of the Burlington area” Fred Blair, OGS

· “Everyday life in 1812: medicine, clothing, values” Jim Taggart, Re-enactor

Also at the event, will be a number of interactive displays, educators, historians, volunteers, re-enactors and citizens who are looking to tell Burlington’s story. They have much to tell! Admission is free and you’ll learn some interesting stories, just like I have. Burlington was not the site of large battles, but the War was fought here, just like in many other small towns, farm fields and homes nearby.

Other events, like the Burlington Historical Society - Speaker Series will take place in 2012. The Burlington Historical Society will commemorate with a 2012 Program that started on January 9, 2012. Zig Misiak was the first speaker in this series. Zig spoke on "The War of 1812 and the Six Nations." The speaker Series takes place at the Burlington Central Library.
Speaker Series:
February 13, 2012: Ruby and Thomas McQueston- Mary Anderson
March 12, 2012: The Burlington Races - Prof. Tom Malcomson
April 9, 2012: William Halton and Halton County - John McDonald
May 14, 2012: The War of 1812
The Burlington Central Library, is also Screening the documentary film: The War of 1812. This PBS documentary explains the roots of the War and its major campaigns and battles Wed Feb 22, 7 pm.

You can learn more about the significant role that the area now known as Burlington, and its local peoples played, by visiting Burlington’s Joseph Brant Museum. Enjoy a tour of the Museum, where you can learn about Joseph Brant, father of John Brant (Ahyouwaighs) who distinguished himself in War of 1812-14 by supporting the British throughout the War of 1812 by participating in the Battle of Queenston Heights and encouraging other members of the Six Nations from along the Grand River to fight the American invaders. Located on the Burlington’s waterfront, this museum ‘s location is significant as the site where many nations of peoples gathered and met and it is also recognized as a crossroads of traveled routes, by water and land.

And for those planning ahead, Joseph Brant Museum will be honouring John Brant on Monday August 6, 2012, at the annual Joseph Brant Day Festival an annual event held each Labour day Monday at LaSalle Park, Burlington. If you are interesting in learning more about the War of 1812-14 and looking for an interactive family fun day, add this date to your calendar.

Did you know that there are many stories, myths and legends mixed in with history as we know it? For example, there is much controversy about the “Burlington Races”. The Burlington Races Revisited; A Revised Analysis of an 1813 Naval Battle for Supremacy on Lake Ontario by Robert J. Williamson. This is a legend, although based on naval facts, and is quite a story!

And, did you know that the Red Geranium will be recognized as the official flower for the Commemoration of War 1812-14? Wouldn’t it be spectacular to see all of Burlington in Red Geraniums next spring?? Plant your Red Geraniums to commemorate the War of 1812.

Heritage sites, academic, cultural, tourism and community groups from across this geographic territory have been working collaboratively to prepare for this event. A number of events and initiatives are occurring in 2012-2014 to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812-14. Watch for more events and information on the Tourism Burlington and the Western Corridor 1812 websites.

So…you can choose to be an observer, by attending events and learning from the experiences coming up over the next few years, or you can be a participant by getting involved, seeking out sites, plaques, stories from your family’s history or even by promoting the learning of our Canadian History in kids, with your families.

This commemoration is about being Canadian. It is about our multi-culturalism and celebrating diversity. It is about building and celebrating those pathways to peace.

How will you commemorate War 1812-14?

TourBurl Simone

Tourism New Year’s Resolutions

2012-01-10T09:48:00.000-05:00

Okay so I admit, it is already the second week of January and I have procrastinated on creating a list of New Year’s resolutions. In fact, I asked our staff team for some ideas since resolutions are not really my thing. Don’t get me wrong, I have made lots of resolutions in my time, however I have not been so good at keeping them. Once we started on the resolution list, we found that there were so many great ideas that it will be a challenge to complete them all, but it sure will be lots of fun trying! Have a look at ours and send us others we can add them to the list.

Tourism Resolutions

In 2012 I am going to be a tourist in my own hometown by encouraging friends and family to come visit Burlington to do the following activities:

Try snowshoeing at Crawford Lake (Jan 6-Feb 25; 6:30-8:30 pm) – this is assuming that old man winter actually arrives in our neck of the woods!
Visit at least 2 new restaurants during Taste of Burlington (Feb 20-March 11, 2012) – This is one of my favorites!

Walkers Chocolates

Learn more about the benefits of chocolate by taking the new self guided Burlington Chocolate Trail tour. Then visit the RBG for Chocolate: The Exhibiton (Jan. 28- Apr. 15)
Go to a performance at the new state of the art Burlington Performance Arts Centre.
Visit the Tourism Visitor Information Centre – a hidden treasure of information about Burlington, surrounding area and Ontario with postcards and lots of Burlington and Canadian souvenirs.
Shake up those creative juices by taking a course at the Burlington Art Centre.
Check out all the Famous Burlingtonians on our Tourism Burlington site and send in a nominee.
Bike, walk, jog or roll along the 23 km. of Waterfront Trail in Burlington.
Stand at the compass on the waterfront promenade, face north and say something – you will hear your voice strangely amplified. This is so cool!
Try out the magnetic hill on King Rd. Be careful of other traffic and note all warnings indicated in link!

Spencer Smith Park - waterfront

Gaze at the stars in the summer sky during the star-gazing programs at the Waterfront.
Learn about one of our first citizens and landowners in Burlington Captain Joseph Brant at the Joseph Brant Museum.
Join 3,000 others and run in the Santa 5k this December.
Try tubing at Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Centre.
Take a wagon ride out to the sugar bush and see Maple Syrup being made. (offered at both Bronte Creek or Mountsberg Conservation Area).
Watch the sunrise over LaSalle Park Marina.
Golf at one or more of the great golf courses in the city.
Walk the Iroquoia portion of the Bruce Trail that runs through Burlington.
Watch salmon run at Lowville Park.
Go bird watching for Bald Eagles at the RBG, Trumpeter Swans along the waterfront or the endangered Eastern Loggerhead Shrike breeding program at Mountsberg.
Take a self guided walking tour of historic Burlington.

BTTB @ Sound of Music Festival

Attend local special events, here are some ideas but check out events calendar for many more suggestions: Winter Carnival, Women’s Show, Easter Eggstravangza, Youth Fest, Kite Festival, Doors Open, Art and Craft Festival, Sound of Music Festival, Canada Day, Country and Blues BBQ, Celebrate the Brant Inn, Zimsculpt, Joseph Brant Day, Lakeside a la Carte, Children’s Festival, Canada’s Largest Ribfest, British Car Rally, Fall into Nature, Art in Action Studio Tour, Wearable Art, Soup Bowl and Christmas Sale, Doorways to the Holidays, Christmas Parade, Festival of Lights, Santa Run, New Year’s Eve and Day. Wow are you going to be busy! Also consider volunteering for one or several of these great events.
Take a scenic drive or day trip in Burlington. (Here are some ideas to get you motivated.)
Enjoy some night life at a local club for comedy, music and dance.
Try geocaching (a type of scavenger hunt) at the RBG, Bronte Creek or Conservation Halton.

Burlington Mall Farmers Market

Visit one of the local farmers markets or on farm markets in season.
Treat myself to a spa treatment at one of Burlington’s many fabulous spas.
Catch a trophy salmon, lake trout or steelhead on Lake Ontario.
Enjoy a day (or two) at Burlington’s best kept secret Beachway Park.
Listen to the Burlington Teen Tour Band in concert, Canada’s Musical Ambassadors.

We probably could have given you 30 more ideas, but we want you to keep your resolutions and hope you find time to do many of these throughout the year.

Enjoy all that Burlington has to offer and be a tourist in your hometown.

P.S. Don’t forget to invite your family and friends to join you by sending them an epostcard.

P.S.S. Send us your pictures of doing a resolution and you could be featured on a postcard or included in future blogs or on our website!

tourburlgirl

The Kids are bored, now what?

2011-12-23T15:25:00.002-05:00

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Then you realize the kids are off school for 2 weeks and you are out of ideas on what to do with them. We have put together a blog full of activities to keep everyone entertained. For more detailed information on events (times, cost, etc) please visit the individual websites. Now, get out there and have fun!

Ring in 2012 with any one of the exciting events happening in Burlington this New Year’s. For a family-friendly event, go to Central Park for the City of Burlington’s Family New Year’s Eve. Celebrate from 6pm-10pm and see how the park is transformed into Seussville for the evening! With performances of “Seussical the Musical” by Student Theatre, free skating, crafts and games, and fireworks at 10pm, your family will have a fabulous night! Bronte Creek will keep you partying until midnight with their New Year’s Eve Family Skate and Coyote Howl. Starting at 5pm and continuing through until 12:30am, you and your family can skate, snack, hike, and howl your way into 2012. At Glen Eden you can enjoy free hot chocolate, a bonfire and music at the tube park and skiing and snowboarding until 8pm.

On January 1st you can continue celebrations with a New Years Day Party from 12–4pm at Tansley Woods Community Centre. This Suessville family fun is a free event with entertainment, free swimming, open gym, and activities. Enjoy a performance of Suessical the Musical and more.

Skating at Rotary Centennial Pond

Lace up your skates this holiday season. Many local arenas are part of the Tim Hortons Free Skate, check the website for dates, times and locations. For those that prefer an outdoor rink consider heading to Rotary Centennial Pond on the waterfront for free skating daily from 10am to 10pm. Be sure to phone ahead and check the ice conditions 905 634 7263. Bronte Creek Provincial Park is home to a huge outdoor rink that is can be in good condition even with a mild spell. It's a good idea to call ahead to listen to the automated recording of current rink conditions. 905-827-6911. If the recording is a few days old it means the rink conditions have not changed. The rink is open daily 9:00am - 9:30pm. (weather permitting) and on New Years Eve the rink stays open until 12:30am.

Mountsberg

For more outdoor fun, consider Conservation Halton parks. All the parks have amazing hiking trails and some offer snowshoeing and/or cross-country skiing (weather permitting). Crawford Lake also has moonlight snowshoe hikes (suitable for ages 8 and up) every Friday and Saturday from 6:30-8:30pm. Each hike begins with basic instruction and some historical background on the sport of snowshoeing. Next, you will strap on a pair of snowshoes, and take a guided trek through the Crawford Lake woodlands. Your guide will point out some of the natural features of the area, and motivate you along the way. At the end of the evening relax by a fire with a steaming hot chocolate. Pre-registration is required and if there is no snow a guided hike is substituted. On Jan. 6 from 6:30-9:00pm participate in a Guided Moonlight Ski at Hilton Falls (suitable for ages 5yrs and up). Enjoy the magic of a winter's evening with hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows over an open fire by the falls after a guided moonlight ski. Pre-registration is recommended and limited ski equipment rental packages are available, be sure to reserve yours early.

At Mountsberg, you can enjoy a wagon or sleigh ride through the fields and forests of the park. The jingle of the harness and the sound of the horses tromping along the trail will make for an enjoyable trip. Wagon Rides are offered daily along with birds of prey presentations from Dec. 26-Jan. 7 and weekends until Feb. 20.

Glen Eden

No need to head north, Glen Eden is officially opening on Dec. 26 for skiing and snowboarding. Hit the slopes for a day of fun on one of their 14 runs. Private lessons can be arranged for first-timers or those wanting some expert training. The week of Dec. 27-31 there will also be camps running but you need to book early as these fill up quick.

Doorways to the Holidays

For indoor and outdoor fun look no further than, The Royal Botanical Gardens. The RBG is open 10am-4pm daily with beautiful gardens and lots of great outdoor trails you can spend a day exploring. Doorways to the holidays featuring cleverly decorated holiday themed doors throughout the Centre is still on display and you can join RBG interpreters for a variety of family activities this holiday season. Go for a walk in the woods with the birds; explore winter traditions and the plants that have influenced them over time; or make a bird-friendly or holiday craft to take home. If you have to work you can always sign the kids up for a week of discovery and adventure at RBG’s discovery camps running Jan. 2-6.

Visiting the BAC

For those of an artistic nature the Burlington Art Centre is a great way to spend a few hours enjoying the exhibits and collections and best of all it’s free! Currently there are 2 exhibitions to enjoy. “Black + White = Grey” , a collection of works by a number of artists, including Kayo O’Young, Diane Nasr, Jane Hill, and Sadashi Inuzuka, showcases the relationship between ceramics and technology through the use of glazes, colour, and clay and “Gino Lorcini: Significant Forms” offers visitors a unique look at the range of three-dimensional works and wall reliefs by the artist. The BAC will be closed until January 2nd and then open daily.

If you are feeling crafty, consider Art Glazed Over a paint your own ceramics studio, offering drop in fun or pre-registered workshops for the winter break. Or you could head to Art Felt for art based day camps for children 5-12 years the week of Jan. 2-7.

Joseph Brant Museum

Step back in time and learn about local history at the Museums of Burlington. If you love fashion you will want to visit the exhibit The Gilded Age: In Pursuit of Pleasure - Fashion in Edwardian Times currently housed at Joseph Brant Museum or head to Ireland House at Oakridge Farm and tour the historic house that housed three generations of the Ireland family. With admission rates under $5.00 per person you can’t find a better deal. Museums of Burlington are closed until January 2nd when regular museum hours resume.

We have highlighted some of the great things to see and do over the break here in Burlington, be sure to visit our website for more ideas and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for other updates.

Top ten things we are thankful for

2011-12-20T12:07:00.000-05:00

It’s that wonderful time of year again where we look back fondly on the past 12 months and plan for our future as the new year approaches. The staff and volunteers at Tourism Burlington are lucky indeed as we have had the pleasure of meeting, helping and working with visitors and residents of Burlington. As we all gathered together for a holiday luncheon to celebrate the season, share some laughs and thank each other for a job well done the theme was apparent, we love our jobs, our co-workers and our city - Burlington!

This weeks’ blog is dedicated to the top ten things we are thankful for (in no particular order), we hope you enjoy them and be sure to pop in to our Visitor Centre at 414 Locust St. and say hello next time you are in Downtown Burlington.

Family Day at The Centre

1. Burlington Performing Arts Centre. This fall we were thrilled to see the doors of The Centre open to the public. This facility built to LEED principles is poised to become the only freestanding green performing arts centre in Canada. The Centre is a boon for arts and culture in Burlington and will provide great new Tourism opportunities.

2. Being named 3^rd best city in Canada for 2 years in a row!Burlington is not only a great place to live but also to visit. Enough said

Burlington Teen Tour Band

3. Burlington Teen Tour Band, our unofficial ambassadors have made us proud again this year with their inspired performances both locally and abroad; including a visit to Hawaii for the 70^th anniversary of Pearl Harbour.

4. We are thankful for Famous Burlingtonians. Ryan Gosling, named Time magazines coolest person of 2011 attended Lester B. Pearson High School and we are happy to claim him as our own. Wouldn’t you ladies?

5. Our dedicated tourism partners and volunteers that work with us to help promote our beautiful city.

6. Our team of local photographers who continue to donate their best shots of Burlington so that we can share them with you.

Photo Courtesy of Vince Magro

7. Burlington Hotel Association. Six member hotels that offer great deals on overnight stays to visitors, work with us to supply group accommodations, provide incentives to attract new meetings, conferences and events to our city and funding to encourage and support event hosting.

8. Our culinary “scene”. Burlington is lucky to have a wide variety of restaurants featuring almost any cuisine you desire, and many now feature local Ontario foods on their menus. We have great culinary events, lots of agri-tourism, wonderful farms and markets, cooking classes and in 2012 we will be home to the Burlington Chocolate Trail!

Sound of Music Festival

9. Our Waterfront. No matter what the season the waterfront showcases our city and draws people to the shores of Lake Ontario. It is a great place to walk, run or cycle the waterfront trail, play in the park or partake in one of the many festivals and events that are held annually.

10. You! Thank you for taking the time to engage with us, share your stories, photos and thoughts.

Happy Holidays from Tourism Burlington

Team Building in Burlington

2011-12-12T10:23:00.000-05:00

We are very fortunate here in Burlington to have a number of unique venues for staff /organization team building activities. We discovered this first hand when our small Tourism Burlington team went offsite for a planning session. Within walking distance from our office on 492 Locust St. is ThinkSpot located in a heritage home in the heart of the downtown. It has nine unique and funky rooms that can accommodate from 2- 17 people and their tagline is Moving Ideas Forward.

Our "Thinkspot"

We knew as soon as we arrived that our day was going to be different from any other planning meeting. Thinkspot owner Debra greeted us warmly at the door and immediately showed us the entire facility. There were no other bookings so we had our choice of rooms and we settled on the largest one at the front of the house with the big comfy chairs and gas fireplace. This was a great choice as the day was cool and rainy but we were oblivious to the weather. We were encouraged to help ourselves to coffee, fresh fruit and home-made scones however, it took us awhile to settle down to business as there was so much to look at.

Who will be victorious?

First of all there is a big board room table that doubles as a ping-pong court which we tested out shortly after arriving. There is a tickle truck of dress up items and we soon were decked out in hats, scarves and tutus to set the tone for the day. There is also a box of lego, chess sets, and Zen gardens to help you relax and release your creative juices. In fact ThinkSpot offers facilitation of Strategic Play using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY™ methodology
plus provides other facilitated programs. The large table in our room had all kinds of sweet treats to keep us sugared up and motivated throughout the day. To top this off the entire place was decked out for the holidays which gave it a really cozy and at home feel.

Debra and her team have thought of everything, with state of the art a.v. equipment including a smart board, huge white boards, she even had reading glasses as one of our staff forgot theirs!

We found the calming atmosphere, the fun tools and the great food was the perfect mix for a successful day. We not only accomplished all the things on our agenda but got to a few other items plus enjoyed a leisurely lunch catered by Grinning Gourmand.

Wearing "the hat"

We also learned about “the hat” which is worn by anyone that dismisses an idea, puts a negative spin on something or is generally “shutting down” the creative process. At some points we could have used more hats but the lighthearted nature of “the hat” had us all laughing and focusing on the positive.

Are you looking for a place to have a special corporate retreat or meeting in a unique or intimate setting? In addition to ThinkSpot there are numerous other great locations in the city including Paletta Lakefront Park and Mansion, (my Grandmas’ china and Grandpas’ books are on display there) Geraldo’s at LaSalle Park, Burlington Art Centre, Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington Golf & Country Club, Burlington Convention Centre, Ron Joyce Centre- DeGroote School of Business, the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, St. Lukes’s Hall plus numerous spaces at our Burlington Hotel Association hotels. Tourism Burlington can refer you to facilities that meet your groups needs plus assist you with delegate activities and accommodation.

tourburlgirl

Downtown is Alive with Santas & Lights

2011-12-09T09:34:00.001-05:00

Have you ever seen almost 4,000 Santas all in one place? This Saturday December 10th, Santas of all shapes, sizes and ages will be running amok in the downtown when they participate in Canada’s largest 5k Santa Run. All race entrants receive a Santa suit which they wear for the duration of the race. This event is organized by VR Pro and some of the proceeds are donated to St. John’s Ambulance here in Burlington. This event is so fun and quirky it has been featured on the Canadian Runner Magazine website. Gotta love that!

When you see all these red and white Santas laughing and jogging along the waterfront route, it really gets you in the holiday spirit. If running is not for you, be a cheerleader by lining the race route and encouraging the racers, it is really something to see! The race begins at 9 a.m. at Pearl and James St. and the runners head east along scenic Lakeshore Rd., north on Maple Ave., and then cut back through quiet residential streets towards downtown where the race ends on Lakeshore just east of Pearl St.

Check out this video of the 2010 race.

While you are downtown you can also get in a little holiday shopping at the unique boutiques and then enjoy some lunch at one of the fabulous bistros, cafes or restaurants. Don’t forget to stop in and see us at the visitor information centre and pick up information on things to see and do in Burlington over the holidays or get some great stocking stuffers such as books, t-shirts and other city souvenirs. If you say you read this blog we will even give you a gift! You can also enter into a draw brought to you by Burlington Downtown to win 1 of 2 - $500 shopping sprees during the month of December from downtown merchants. Now that helps with your nice and naughty list!

The downtown is a magical place to visit in December especially after dark with everything decorated for the holidays. Downtown merchants have enthusiastically decorated their storefront windows with various holiday themes, the lampposts and trees are alight on the major routes and best of all Spencer Smith Park is ablaze with the Lakeside Festival of Lights.

Include visiting the lights as part of your family’s annual traditions. The holidays would not be the same without a drive past the Burlington Teen Tour Band red coats that line Lakeshore Rd. or a walk through the park on a crisp winter evening surrounded by the many glowing lights from numerous displays. There is no entrance fee to the Festival of Lights, it is a gift to the community thanks to the efforts of volunteers and the support of many generous sponsors that make the festival possible every year. The Festival is in its 16th year and glowing and runs nightly until January 12th, 2012. We suggest that you park in the parking garage, it is free after 6 p.m. and then walk along Lakeshore to Brant St. and down the stairs or roadway into the park. If the cold weather continues you can bring your skates and test out the rink at the Rotary Centennial Pond at the west end of the park. As I am writing this I clicked on the waterfront web cam and the mini zamboni is clearing the ice, so it is looking good! Check out the website before you go to make sure the rink is open.

The Tourism elves decorated our window in the theme Holiday at Home this year and we featured various local attractions that you should check out during the holidays, including the RBG, Art Centre, Museums, Performing Art Centre, Conservation Halton parks, Bronte Creek etc. Although we never seem to win the window competition, we have fun decking the halls and hope that our partners see some increased visitation from this promotion.

Hope you Holiday at Home this year, bring friends and family to events, attractions and to dine and shop and enjoy everything Burlington has to offer.

tourburlgirl

Bronte Creek Homestead Christmas

2011-12-07T09:31:00.001-05:00

On December 3rd I took my daughter Hannah and her adorable friend Kate to Bronte Creek Provincial Park where we were treated to their special Homestead Christmas experience! This weekend event throughout December sells out each year, so we were glad we booked early and scored our spots back in October. (Moms: mark that down in your calendar now to make sure you get a spot in 2012!)

We got a taste of what Christmas was like back at the turn of the century – and no, young-people-reading-this, not when 1999 turned into 2000...I’m talking about the other turn of the century, when 1899 became 1900!

Bronte Creek is a special place for my family, since my mom actually lived in the farmhouse there when she was a kid, not too many years before it became a provincial park. My grandparents and great grandparents were farmers there, and built the Spruce Lane Farmhouse you can now tour when you visit. I bet my mother never imagined thousands of people would one day be traipsing through her old bedroom and peeking around! How crazy is that?

The kids got to do a bunch of Christmas crafts, dress up in old-fashioned dresses, learn about the history of the park, and meet Santa too! They even got to taste Mrs. Claus’ famous cookie recipe and drink some warm apple cider.

Homestead Christmas is a great tradition to enjoy with your family, but no matter what time of year, Bronte Creek is a great park to explore. It’s open all winter long and those chilly winter weekends are a great time to hike the trails, skate at the giant ice rink, or play in the Children’s Barn! In many ways winter is the best time to go there, since it’s a little less busy than the summer, and parking spaces are aplenty while pesky lineups are not!

So the next wintery morning you wake up cringing because you’re thinking to yourself that you have totally run out of ideas of what to do with your kids, or yourself for that matter, grab your scarf and mittens and head over to my mom’s old place (also known more commonly as Bronte Creek Park). Trust me, you’ll have a wintery Burlington blast!

Guest Blogger

Victoria Hughes

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-11-28T10:12:00.001-05:00

The jolly old man in red is all over Burlington. Santa has arrived at The Burlington Mall and has taken up daily residence in his "cabin" at the mall. We are not sure how he does it but he will also be appearing weekends at The Mapleview Centre and you can receive a free 5x7 photo to capture your holiday memory. The Royal Botanical Gardens will play host to Santa many times throughout December this year. Each weekend between December 3rd-18th from 10am-4pm, you and your little ones can meet the jolly old elf and his reindeer friends! Sundays, enjoy a hot breakfast with Santa starting at 10am until 12pm.

Santa 5K Run

There is always excitement in the air for Burlington’s annual Christmas Parade! On Sunday December 4th, Santa and over 65 bands, floats, clowns, and mascots travel from the Burlington Mall at Prospect Street and Guelph Line to Brant Street and Caroline Street downtown. Find a spot along the route and have fun! Non-perishable food items for the local food banks will be collected by the Burlington Teen Tour Band and letters to Santa will be picked up by Canada Post letter carriers. Have you every seen over 3,000 Santas running loose in the streets? This December 10th you can! Bundle up in your own Santa suit and take part in Canada’s largest all-Santa 5km Run! Run or walk through downtown Burlington or cheer on the hundreds of Santas.Visit their website today to register for this fun-filled event! Ho, ho, ho!! View the Santa Run video here.

Candlelight Tours

Be sure to head to Ireland House at Oakridge Farm on Friday December 9th for Candlelight Tours of Yesteryear. Experience a wondrous guided tour of this historic property illuminated by candlelight. The house will be filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional Christmas, as performers play holiday songs. Father Christmas will welcome guests as they become a part of a historic farmhouse family, with delicious period-style refreshments to sample and holiday crafts to create and take home. Tickets for a full tour, crafts, and refreshments must be purchased in advance.

Festival of Lights

Burlington is “dressed” for the holidays! The annual “Doorways to the Holidays” will be at the Royal Botanical Gardens until January 8th. Read about our visit to Doorways to the Holidays last year. The RBG will also have seasonal activities, musical entertainment, local school and adult choirs, model train and light displays, and more to keep your December weekends full and festive! The picturesque Paletta Lakefront Mansion will open its doors to the public on Monday, December 19th from 10am-3pm. Explore the wonderfully restored 1930s mansion and beautiful waterfront grounds, while also enjoying the holiday decorations and musical entertainment. There will be free admission for the day. Canned goods donations will be accepted. Spencer Smith Park will once again shine brightly with holiday spirit from Sunday December 4th to January 12th. Each evening, the downtown park will dazzle visitors with more than 60 spectacular animated figures and illuminated displays. The 14th Annual Festival of Lights is a free event that has become a fabulous Burlington holiday tradition.
So many of Burlington’s amazing attractions will help you to make fun holiday memories with their special activities and entertainment. Take advantage of the Halton Streetcar Museum’s last days before they close their doors until Spring 2012. “Christmas on the Rails” on Saturday December 3rd and 10th allows you and your family to hop on a train and take a ride through the beautiful, snowy woods with Christmas carols in the air. As we head into December join the Burlington Downtown Candlelit Stroll and experience a night of holiday fun. On Friday December 2nd head to City Hall and purchase a candle in support of United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton. From there, stroll and enjoy the live music and entertainment at downtown shops and businesses and return to City Hall for hot chocolate and sweet treats. Weekends in December starting December 3rd and running to the 18th you can enjoy Bronte Creek Provincial Park and partake in free take home crafts and heritage activities for the whole family at the Breckon Shelter from 10am - 3pm.

It is time to Celebrate!

2011-11-24T09:09:00.001-05:00

To say Tourism Burlington is excited about the opening of the new Burlington Performing Arts Centre is an understatement. We are thrilled, delighted, ecstatic, elated and tickled pink that this facility is our new neighbour and we can’t wait to join in the celebration during the opening week festivities.

You see it is not often that a major new facility is opened in our City that has so much tourism potential. We want people to not only support the centre by attending events, we also want them to linger here in our city, have dinner, do some shopping, visit other local attractions and stay overnight. Over the past year we have enthusiastically been helping to promote this state of the art facility to potential visitors, meeting planners and group tour operators.

I have been to several events at the centre this fall but I have not actually seen a musical performance yet. From all accounts the sound in the main theatre is spectacular and the space is so intimate that there is not a bad seat in the house, so I am looking forward to the experience.

Facepainting

The opening week festivities kick off on Sunday November 27 with Family Day at the Centre. This day is packed with activities from 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.so plan to bring your kids, grandkids, as it will be a fantastic day. In the Main Theatre Quebec dance company Sursaut presents the visually stunning At Nightfall, the story of a shoemaker that discovers the joys that are outside of his workshop. In the Community Studio Theatre you will be treated to a moving and funny performance of Simple Gifts by the internationally acclaimed Cashore Marionettes. Tickets need to be purchased in advance for these two performances however the activities in the lobby are free. You can get your face painted by make-up designer for Cirque du Soleil's Totem Nathalie Simard. Have you ever seen an 8 foot Mountie or ballerina, on point shoes!! Kristi Heath will be towering over you, and it will be hard to miss her! Do you remember Granny Garbanzo a character from the Gemini-award winning children's show The Big Comfy Couch? She will be making an appearance at Family Day. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in “hands on” arts experiences with professionals from the Burlington Art Centre. Tourism will have a photographer on site that day so smile for the camera and you never know you might see yourself in future tourism publications.

In Paradisum

Modern dance lovers will not want to miss In Paradisum, by Canada’s Coleman, Lemieux and Compagnie on November 29^th which features three brilliant modern dance performances.

Being a blue jeans kind of girl I have tickets for the December 1 “Celebration!” A Blue Jeans Gala featuring a diverse group of performers with one thing in common - they are all "Burlingtonians". I can’t wait to see The Spoons again and hear Romantic Traffic, be entertained by long time favorite Gordie Tapp, and see some more recent acts such as Myles Erlick who played the lead role in Billy Elliott, post hardcore band Silverstein and Mike Eastick and Sean Kelly of Idle Sons and more!

Word is that there only a few tickets left for the Saturday December 3rd is a Red Carpet Evening with Sarah McLachlan. The official opening of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of a “red carpet” experience.

After opening week there are many other performances in December that will get you in the holiday mood so you might want to consider buying a few early gifts for family and friends including Irish Rovers Christmas, Canadian Orpheus Mal Choir, Stories about Storytelleers, Harbourtown Sound, Glen Poster, and the Burlington Concert Band. For the complete 2011-2012 season please visit the website.

tourburlgirl

2011 Burlington Holiday Gift Guide

2011-11-14T10:36:00.001-05:00

2011 has brought more reasons than ever before to do your holiday shopping in Burlington, Ontario. If you love unique stores, thoughtfully curated product selections, memorable service, and giving your loved ones gifts that have them asking “where did you get this?” then I promise you, Btown has exactly what you need. In recent years, this lakefront city has cultivated a plentiful crop of one-of-a-kind boutiques. This fills me with genuine glee because I just don’t think I can take another year fighting the crowds in the GTA mega-malls, and I know I’m not alone on that one! You take your life into your own hands in some of those parking lots! As for Btown (where parking is both plentiful and peaceful) here are 10 shopping gems to get you started, along with the year’s best gift ideas, in our 2011 Burlington Holiday Gift Guide!

A Different Drummer: Locals fill with pride when they speak about this longstanding bookshop, and for good reason. This is the kind of bookstore you usually only see in movies; where parents bring their kids to browse for hours and excitedly choose a new story to take home, because that’s what their parents did for them as kids. They host author events (Adrienne Clarkson, for example) that few other bookstores have the credibility to pull off. And because it is a true bookshop, with ever-changing titles you can browse through in your actual hands, this store reveals new and unexpected treasures to you each time you visit. Whether it’s through the recommendations of dedicated staff (who are there because they truly love books), or simply because the many tables, shelves and stairwells are brimming with covers that catch your eye and ultimately your imagination, A Different Drummer has a book for everyone on your list. My 2011 Gift Pick: Wonder Struck by Brian Selznick. Perfect for the “tween” in your life.

Centro Garden: Newly opened and worth the wait, this gorgeous shop is filled with home décor items, greenery and gifts that will dazzle all your senses. Whether you need a completely original centerpiece, a modern and artful wreath, Christmas ornaments or candles, Centro Garden has you covered. Helmed by Jason Pepetone, who is part of greenhouse royalty (having started the Terra brand with his father and brothers), you can quickly see how Jason has brought his wealth of expertise into a totally new endeavor that is distinctly his own. It’s a great store to get you started on your own holiday decorating this year. My 2011 Gift Pick: any holiday party you’re attending this year would be a fabulous reason to grab a gorgeous ornament from their endless and sparkling selection as the perfect hostess gift.

Fairhome Interiors: A new renovation is almost complete for this mecca of home décor. Along with professional design services, area rugs, custom sewing and window treatments, you’ll also find countless gifts like jewellery, candles, popular Emma Bridgewater tableware, and a cheeky assortment of memorable cards. If you’ve got newlyweds or new homeowners on your list this year, you simply must consider my 2011 gift pick: this Canadian-made serving tray made from repurposed oak wine barrels and vintage-inspired cutlery. I’m sure you can imagine serving delicious artisanal cheeses and fresh fruit on it every time you entertain!

Joelle’s: Every fashionable woman within driving distance of Burlington has heard of Joelle’s. It has reached veritable cult status these days, with the best brands, the best service, and the most stylish selection of clothing & accessories in the west end of the GTA. It’s nearly impossible to leave there empty handed, as my credit card statements will gladly attest. Recently expanded lines include Milly, Trina Turk and more of much-loved Michael Kors. With a stylish maternity section surrounded by kids & baby items, a denim wall full of skinny jeans and flattering boot cuts, and a sea of sparkling accessories, you will find something for every girl on your list this holiday season. If you want to look fabulous at an upcoming holiday soirée, you’ll find something truly special in Joelle’s glittering assortment of cocktail dresses and LBDs. As for gifts, my 2011 Gift Pick has to be Bootights. Tights on top + socks on the bottom = warm stylish comfort in your boots this winter! A perfect stocking stuffer for your sister or BFF!

Jeff’s Guy Shop: Walk through Joelle’s and you’ll find yourself in stylish-guy heaven! This store has suits, cufflinks, dress shirts, ties, an equally impressive denim wall, and enough trendy sweaters and outerwear to dress every guy you know. Grab a funky watch, a sleek billfold, or a fabulous & fitted going-out shirt. My 2011 Gift Pick: the perfect men’s item – a vintage inspired football or hockey tee from their favourite team. We all know men can’t have enough t-shirts...nor enough team pride...so this gift is a surefire hit!

Great Gift Shops: Canadiana abounds at two of Burlington’s most prized and original gift shops: The Burlington Art Centre’s Art Etc Gallery Shop, and The Royal Botanical Gardens’ Shop @ The Gardens. Aside from the obvious reasons for visiting these artful year-round destinations (gorgeous art and inspiring greenhouses & gardens anyone?), the gift shops are must-sees as well. If you have relatives visiting this holiday season from overseas, why not send them home with something truly unique and Canadian-made? Pottery, jewellery, sculpture and more can be found at both. My 2011 Gift Pick has to be anything from Robert Held’s gorgeous art glass collection at The Art Etc Gallery Shop.

Ohh! Beautiful Things: The name of the store pretty much sums up what you’ll find here: beautiful things! In addition to jewellery by local artisans, a truly unique and hip assortment of clothing and accessories, mini chandeliers and fantastic home décor items, you’ll also find a well-stocked section dedicated to kids. I love the retro flare of sock monkeys and vintage toys like tin cash registers and spinning tops. My 2011 Gift Pick for that hard-to-please young boy on your list: The Box of Jokes. Where else can you get classics like the hand buzzer, squirt ring and fake vomit? Now that I’ve said that, I’m realizing there are likely many grown men on my list who would go crazy for it too!

Snuggle Bugz: Started not long ago by a husband and wife team who are passionate about modern, stylish and unique baby products, Snuggle Bugz has filled a void in the marketplace that existed for far too long. Where else can you find adorable bedding, sexy nursing bras, cozy sleep sacks, the best assortment of strollers in town, and gorgeous furniture and art work for kids & baby rooms. All this in a boutique environment, with attentive staff who know their stuff. It’s almost impossible to pick just one thing but since I have to, my 2011 Gift Pick are the Wheely Bugs by Prince Lionheart that are totally perfect for toddlers who are ready to move! Ladybugs, bumble bees and adorable mice are just a few of the options! It’s the perfect gift from a doting Grandma & Grandpa! Be sure to follow them on facebook for news on their upcoming Twelve Days of Christmas – 6 weeks of special deals and cool in-store events!

Wills & Co. Fine Food Market: Canada is full of foodies, and Burlington is no exception. That’s why it’s no surprise to find a great gourmet shop in town. Taking it a step further than great taste alone, Wills & Co. focuses on fresh, local and natural food. Their passionate & knowledgeable team can tell you the provenance of every item and provide tips on how to best prepare it. It’s a fantastic place to get your organic free-range turkey for Christmas dinner, as all their meats are local, and free of hormones & antibiotics. If you’re in the mood for gift-giving, it’s hard to resist their amazing selection of chutneys and preserves! My 2011 Gift Pick has to be the Bumpercrop line of mason jars full of goodies like Beer Sweet Peppers or Twisted Pears! What a great hostess gift or stocking stuffer!

Saltridges: This is the shop you need to go to if you really want to wow the ladies on your list. Luxury brands are a staple here, and you’ll find unique products like COR soap, Lubin perfumes (try Marie Antoinette’s personal perfume Gin Fizz), and my new favourite brand - Lipstick Queen - just to name a few. My 2011 Gift Pick for the classic and elegant woman is a pair of their posh pajamas. Who wouldn’t want to sleep in and then leisurely read the Sunday paper in these?

Burlington is a city worth visiting any time of year, but the holiday season always showcases the festive spirit of our unique local merchants better than any other. Did I mention all these shops are surrounded by delicious cafés and coffee shops to keep you energized (and rest your weary feet) as you check off everyone on your gift list? Here’s hoping you found our 2011 Holiday Gift Guide helpful, and we look forward to seeing you strolling around Burlington’s boutiques with a rich cup of hot chocolate in the days ahead. Rest assured you’ll find something worth treasuring for everyone on your shopping list this year. Happy Holidays!

Guest Blogger
Victoria Hughes

Lots of Soup for you!

2011-11-09T12:59:00.000-05:00

Why is it that whenever I think of soup it immediately brings to mind the classic episode on the t.v. show Seinfeld and that famous line – “No soup for you!”

Well fortunately for us here in Burlington there is an event coming up with lots of delicious soup for all. The annual Soup Bowl event held at the Burlington Art Centre’s Shoreline Room is happening November 17-20 and this year we have a whole table of us going on Friday for lunch.

Here is how it works. You choose a fabulous handcrafted ceramic soup bowl from the hundred of choices made by the BAC Potters guild members. Then you fill it with your choice of gourmet soups made by local restaurants. Add a crisp, fresh salad, roll and yummy ice cream for dessert. The best part is that and you keep the bowl you chose, a volunteer wisks it away, and it is returned to you clean and packed for you to take home!

TourBurl girl's bowl selections

The most difficult task is trying to decide which bowl and soup to chose. The local restaurants support this event by providing the delectable soups and salads to assist this annual fundraiser.

Over the years I have gotten a number of beautiful bowls in many shapes, sizes and colours that I proudly display at home and use for dips, Christmas candies, and soup of course!

The Soup Bowl sells out quickly, in fact the Friday lunch is sold out so you need to reserve your seat early to avoid disappointment. There are still spaces available for Thursday, Saturday and Sunday lunch (12 noon) and Friday evening (6 pm). You can book tickets online or purchase in person at the Burlington Art Centre.

Holiday decor @ Art Etc

With the Christmas Sale presented by Arts Burlington going on at the same time at the Art Centre, it is a great opportunity for you to do some shopping for the art lover in your family. With over 95 Canadian Artisans participating, there is a lot to choose from for everyone on your gift list. I usually pick up some great hostess gifts, stocking stuffers and one of a kind items for that hard to buy for someone. I also have bought some lovely items for myself to jazz up my holiday wardrobe. There is no fee to attend the Sale and the parking is also free. The sale hours are from Thursday from 11 am – 3 pm, Friday 11 am – 9 pm and Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm.

For more information about this event or other things happening in Burlington contact Tourism Burlington at 905 634-5594.

Enjoy your soup and the sale.
TourBurl girl.

Lest We Forget

2011-11-07T09:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we forget how fortunate we are to live in Canada and particularly here in Burlington.

Sometimes we forget how blessed we are to be free, secure, and have so many other advantages in life that others around the world would envy.

Sometimes we forget that many people throughout the world suffer from the basic needs of life such as food, clean water, shelter, medical services, educational opportunities and the right of freedom of speech.

And yes, sometimes we forget that so many Canadian men and women have sacrificed their lives and suffered in so many world conflicts over the years, to protect and preserve these precious values for us all.

They continue to stand on guard for us, and thanks to them we are truly glorious and free.

Cenotaph photo courtesy of Al Pettman

On Friday, November 11th …. Don’t forget …. Just for a moment remember…..and join us if you can:

9:00 am - Sunrise Remembrance Day Service, Spencer Smith Park: Burl-Oak Naval Veterans will be holding a 30 minute ceremony at the Naval Ships Memorial Monument in Spencer Smith Park – All are welcome.

10:30 am - Remembrance Day Parade begins: Starts at Central Public School, down Brant to Elgin to Locust to Ontario to Cenotaph

11:00 am - The Royal Canadian Legion will hold a 45-60 minute ceremony at the Cenotaph, by City Hall (426 Brant St). All are welcome

Support the poppy fund by purchasing this token of remembrance available at Burlington City Hall or Tourism Burlington offices at 414 Locust St.

TourBurl Girl Sally

For Arts Sake

2011-11-01T11:35:00.001-04:00

This weekend is all about art in Burlington with two events showcasing area artists and their fabulous works. I am looking forward to a day out with a girlfriend, browsing and perhaps getting an early start on Christmas with some unique one-of-a-kind gifts.

First of all we are going to check out the The Wearable Art Sale on Saturday November 5, from 10 am to 4 pm. I have attended this juried show of hand-made jewellery, clothing, scarves, purses, accessories, hats and more for the last two years and I am always amazed at the talented artisans and the beautiful pieces on display. I have been able to pick up gifts for some hard to buy for people on my list and they were as thrilled to receive as I was to give. Often however I have a hard time parting with these treasures and have been known to buy myself early gifts from Santa!

Mandie Patterson (Burlington) photo courtesy of BAC

Izz Marazanna
photo courtesy of BAC

The next stop will be at a few of the studios on the Art in Action Studio tour held on both Saturday Nov. 5 and Sunday Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. In its 9^th year this volunteer run event features 8 “studios” with 25 artists. With Photography, Jewellery, Fine Art Oil, Resin, Mixed Media and Watercolour painting, Hand Turned Wood, Blacksmithing, Gold Smithing, Textile, Custom Handbags, Stained Glass, Copper and Stone Sculptures it will be hard to pick which studio to visit so it is a good thing we have Sunday too! This tour will be featured on the Arts Matter show on Cogeco (channel 23) airing the week of October 31.

Art in Action Studio Tour

Of course the day wouldn’t be complete without stopping at one of the local restaurants for a bite and our challenge will be choosing from the many great locations. Tourism Burlington has a detailed list of culinary experiences so I am going to consult this for ideas and we will see what tempts our palate when we are out and about.

TourBurlGirl

For more information on family adventures, great hotel deals and getaway packages and local festivals and events visit Tourism Burlington.com.

SPOOKTACULAR Hallowe'en

2011-10-19T08:55:00.001-04:00

Halloween is such a great time of year for the young and the young at heart. Whether you are donning a homemade costume or have splurged and purchased something fun to wear, there is no denying that kids love nothing better than dressing up and then eagerly running from house to house with chants of “trick or treat” filling the air and Halloween treats filling their bags.

Over the years the allure of Halloween has spread and Halloween events now spans over several weekends. Whether it’s picking the perfect pumpkin or finding a family fun festival, Burlington is the place to have a SPOOKTACULAR Halloween!

Springridge Farm Harvest Festival

Weekends in October visit Springridge Farm for the Harvest Festival featuring pumpkins, the pumpkin princess and Eggbert. This family friendly event features activities throughout the day including a professional puppet show, wagon rides to the 5-acre corn trail, a Boo barn, pony rides($) and face painting. If your kids (and you) are looking for more fun head to the onsite fun farm yard which includes the new spiderweb climber and farm yard pipe slide. You can visit the animals in the farm barn; hike up the hill to the escarpment educational lookout; play in the giant sandbox; try your hand at milking the plywood cow; work your way through the witch’s mouth corn trail, tricky trails and corn maze and more! After working up an appetite enjoy lunch with their weekend BBQ or stop by their bakery for a sweet treat. Admission is $10.00 per person (ages 2 and up). On Sunday, October 30th at 12:30pm, Springridge is hosting their 2nd annual Halloween Parade! Join in the Halloween spirit - the parade meets at the Little Theatre and follows a professional bagpiper. Wear your spookiest costumes. The parade is included in Harvest Festival admission. And don’t forget to check out Springridge Farm’s amazing bakery, farm market and gift shop before you end your day at the farm.

Also weekends in October head to the Royal Botanical Gardens to enjoy the fall colours and Hamilton Pumpkinfest at the Arboretum. Enjoy the Kids’ Fun Zone, Hay Wagon Rides, Pony Rides, Farmer’s Market, Pumpkin Patch and The Haunted Maze. General Admission is free but there are additional charges for activites. Kids Fun Zone Ride Pass - $25: includes unlimited rides for one day on all Kiddy Rides and Jumping Castles or Pumpkinfest Pass $40: includes unlimited rides for one day on all Kiddy Rides, Jumping Castles, 1 Temporary Tattoo kit, 1 Farmers Pumpkin, 1 Kids Snack Pack (Cookies and Juice box), 1 Sticker Book and 1 Halloween Treat Bag for your treats. Visit the Hamilton Pumpkinfest website for details and pricing.

During October, head to Andrews Scenic Acres in Milton and explore their gently haunted forest, straw mountain jump and cornfield walk. There is a $3.00 per person admission charge to the fun farm area. While you are there you can participate in the number one fall attraction, the wagon ride to the pumpkin picking field where everyone can select their favourite pumpkin, whether it is 5 or 80 pounds. Pony rides are also available on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays throughout the picking season and don’t forget to visit the farm market and (for the adults) the winery during your visit.

For those that are into the supernatural, consider Burlington Ghost Walks every weekend up to Halloween. Please call the host hotline at 905-630-7256 for dates and times or visit their website. Happy Hauntings!

Camping @ Bronte Creek

Consider some Halloween camping at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. On October 22nd registered campers can take part in Camper Halloween. Let your creative side show and decorate your site (prizes for the best decorated sites) and then trick-or-treat around the campsites. Finish your evening with a spooky hike where you will learn about owls, coyotes, bats and other creepy critters! For more information contact the park at 905-827-6911 or reserve your campsite online.

Head into Milton to the Streetcar Museum and take part in their Halloween Spooktackular on October 22nd and 29th from 6:30-10:00pm. Walk through the haunted car barn and travel in the old, creaky streetcars along the mainline. If you’re a Halloween fan this is definitely a spooky experience not to be missed!

Mapleview Centre

Are you looking for an alternative to hitting the streets for “trick or treating” Mapleview Centre will be presenting its 13th Annual Safe Trick or Treat event. Dress up the children and head to the Mapleview Centre on Thursday Oct. 27th from 5-9pm. Start the night by creating your own personalized animated Halloween flip book from 5-9pm in the food court then the kids can enjoy safe trick or treating from 6-7pm throughout the mall. Be sure to visit the incredible world of bugs, an exhibit of hundreds of insects collected from around the world including the beautiful, rare and deadly giants of the bug world that runs to October 29th.

Spooktacular Conservation Halton

Start your Halloween festivities early at Mountsberg Conservation Area's Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday October 29th from 10am-4pm. This event is free with park admission and features plenty of hauntingly good fun for everyone including a haunted play barn; scary skeleton scavenger hunt; pumpkin bowling; Bird of Prey presentations -owls and vultures Halloween special; bison rides; sssslithering with snakes presentations; a kids "tattoo" parlour and crafts. If you arrive in costume you will receive a free hot drink. For more information call 905-854-2276 or visit their website.

Spooktacular Conservation Halton

Dust off your costumes! October 29th from 7-9pm Mountsberg Conservation Area will present Halloween Spooktacular - After Dark, an evening of goulish family fun (appropriate for ages 8 and up). During this special Halloween event visitors will explore the haunted play barn and then learn some scary park lore on the terrifying trail tour. Dare to get elbow deep in gross out fun at the campfire roast or simply relax with a steaming mug of hot chocolate and some oooey gooey marshmallows. No trip to Mountsberg would be complete without some wildlife lore and visitors will get their fill as they listen for local coyote populations during the Halloween Coyote Howl. Howl your way into the Halloween spirit if you dare! Boo-ware spaces are limited ($16.95/adult or senior, $11.30/children (8-14)) Call 905-854-2276 or purchase tickets online.

Downtown Burlington

Celebrate Halloween in Downtown Burlington. On October 29th from 1-5pm enjoy a beautiful fall day and Burlington Downtown Pumpkins & Pancakes in Civic Square at City Hall. Children will enjoy the free face painting, games, balloons and pumpkin crafts before heading off in the costume parade at 3:00pm. Bring a non-perishable donation for the food bank when you pick up your map, then head to participating downtown businesses to trick or treat. If you are looking for an afternoon snack, join The Red Canoe Bistro and The Alex restaurants as they battle it out for pancake supremacy from 2-4pm. Join them as they make pancakes for a cause, $4.00 for a plate and a vote. All funds raised will be going to the Partnership West Family Support Network.

Join the gang at Tansley Woods Community Centre for a frightfully ghoulish time. Spooky Splash runs Saturday, October 29th from 1:30 – 4pm and features swimming, games, a haunted house and much more. Admission is only $4.86 +tax per person and tickets are on sale now at the Tansley Woods aquatics desk.

Ireland House

Get spooked out this Halloween with The Museums of Burlington’s wonderous Halloween Event on Sunday October 30th from 12-4pm. Enjoy this scary holiday with tours of historic Ireland House showcasing mourning traditions throughout the years. Experience some funeral traditions through the generations of the Irelands.

Ireland House

Enjoy the contemporary celebration of Halloween with tons of activities and crafts for kids. Make a magic potion with the witch in her haunted house; put on a brave face and find your way through the haunted woodshed; march in a costume Parade and make some creepy creations with Mad Science. When the ghouls and goblins get hungry, sink your fangs into delicious barbeque and refreshments. Enjoy live entertainment for children and adults including costumed belly-dancing instructions; fun carnival style games and attractions; vendors and more. Only $5.00 for children and $2.00 for adults. Every Family receives a complimentary pumpkin (While supplies last) and goody bags for the children. Don’t miss out on all the fun this Halloween! Call 905-332-9888 or visit online for more information.

Racing witches, ghosts and goblins – oh my! Spooks n' Spokes Mountain Bike Race at Hilton Falls Conservation Area is sure to be a great participant or spectator event. Join racers on Sunday October 30th from 8am-1pm as they take on the trails in costume. Racers should register early for this popular time trial that is suited for all ages and abilities. This Halloween race has categories for those 10 & under, those with special needs, teens, and adults in addition to your choice of a long or short course. Enjoy the fall colours, a barbecue lunch, great prizes including best costume and lots of fun. Call 905-854-0262 or visit online for all the spooky details!

For a truly unique and memorable Halloween night this year, Seneca Avenue is the place to be! Located between Guelph Line and Brant Street and running from Lakeshore Road to New Street, this neighbourhood has been a Halloween attraction for the past 30 years. The City of Burlington even closed the street to traffic last year, making it into a wonderfully festive, spooky street party. Gene a resident of Seneca Avenue, has fully embraced the tradition since moving there four years ago. Last year, his house transformed into a giant pyramid, with his driveway becoming the Nile! While the night is all about having fun, entertaining the crowds of children and families that inundate the street, and, of course, giving out plenty of candy to the trick-or-treaters, Gene also accepted donations for Unicef and collected over $200 last year.

This year, Gene is planning on a space theme for his house, complete with a lunar landing and another water feature. He will also again be accepting donations for Unicef. The displays are usually set up throughout the day on the 31^st and are dismantled early the next day. You can take a drive along the street during the day to check out how the decorations come together and then come back in the evening for an exciting stroll through the completed, spectacular sights of Seneca Avenue!

Happy Halloween from Tourism Burlington!

Escape the city and enjoy Fall into Nature’s final weekend

2011-10-11T14:05:00.000-04:00

One of the unique aspects of living in this area is the transition between the four seasons, each with its own defining moments. We know that spring is on the way when we spot our first robin, longer days and warmer nights mean summer is around the corner. But there is only one season that announces its arrival (and departure) in a dramatic burst of colourful glory, and that is fall.

Conservation Halton is pleased to present Fall into Nature to celebrate the spectacular landscapes and colours of fall. We are fortunate to have, just a short drive away, an abundance of natural areas with rolling hills, and the Niagara Escarpment to showcase the array of reds, oranges, yellows and browns.

Fall into Nature -Trails

Fall into Nature kicked off this past Thanksgiving weekend and more than 30,000 visitors enjoyed the warm weather, fall colours and the happenings at our parks. The event continues this weekend, October 15 and 16, with activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at all six of Conservation Halton's main parks: Crawford Lake, Hilton Falls, Kelso, Mount Nemo, Mountsberg and Rattlesnake Point Conservation Areas.

See what our parks have to offer

Fall into Nature is a wonderful opportunity to see all of the parks in their fall splendour. Each park has a Welcome Centre to let you know what’s happening that day and a detailed schedule of events is available online.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of unique outdoor experiences including:

Chairlift rides to the top of the escarpment with spectacular views
Self-guided and interpreter led tours through our many trails and landscapes
Tractor-drawn wagon rides through the parks
Educational and interactive programs (visit an Iroquoian Village, learn about the science of nature)
Live performances (music, First Nations dancers)
Demonstrations (Bird of Prey shows, reptile shows, mountain biking)
Gate entry
Various other activities for children, barbeques, and more.

Take a ride on the Fall Bus Tour and lunch is on us!

Sit back and enjoy the ride as we take you on a guided Fall into Nature bus tour on October 15 and 16. The tour will take you to three distinctive parks, Kelso, Crawford Lake and Mountsberg, where you will learn about the area’s natural and cultural history, while enjoying a variety of special events.

Seats are still available for both days, your full-day bus tour will include:

View from Kelso Chairlift ride

Chairlift ride at Kelso to enjoy autumn views along the escarpment, with a guided walk to learn about the landscape from spectacular vantage points
Barbeque lunch
Stop at Crawford Lake for a feature presentation with Iroquoian Dancers and an opportunity to tour the village
Birds of Prey Demonstration and Wildlife Walkway at Mountsberg

The Fall Bus Tour is $30 per person (including taxes) and will be from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., departing from Kelso. Book online or call 905-854-2276.

Forest Festival at Rattlesnake Point

On Saturday, October 15, Conservation Halton will hold its inaugural Forest Festival at Rattlesnake Point. Come out and celebrate the International Year of Forests and learn about the importance of trees and forests in our region.

Enjoy interactive displays on the use of forest products, horse logging demonstrations timber sports, guided hikes and more activities. There will also be a display of some of the region’s native snakes from Mountsberg between noon and 3 p.m.

A wide area of cultural and family fun activities

Mount Nemo

Fall into Nature also has cultural activities which will open a door into the past for all to learn more about the rich history of this region and showcase local talent. There will be live performances with a variety of music and First Nations Dancers at Crawford Lake. Drummers and non-drummers of all ages are invited to join the open drum circle at Hilton Falls.

A wide array of activities for all ages and interests are being offered at Fall into Nature. Have fun with harvest themed games, discovery hunts and crafts for kids. Explore the PlayBarn at Mountsberg, build a pinecone birdfeeder at Hilton Falls, do a craft, or enter the pumpkin raffle at Crawford Lake.

Enjoy a fall road trip from park to park

The fall colours in Halton Region are accentuated with our region’s many country roads, rolling terrain, and of course the Niagara Escarpment. As you travel through Escarpment Country during Fall into Nature, there are many other great attractions in our area, such as shops, local artisans, and numerous farms with fresh produce.

While enjoying Fall into Nature, be sure to check out other local destinations such as Campbellville, which offers shopping and dining opportunities. Or, enjoy the fruits of the harvest season with a visit to Springridge Farm, Stonehaven Farms, Chudleigh’s, or any of the farmer’s markets throughout the region.

More about Fall into Nature

During Fall into Nature visitors will also be able to enjoy the regular activities and programs available at Conservation Halton parks. Park visitors who purchase a one-day park entry during the festival will receive a Fall into Nature passport valid for one full day’s admission to all six parks. Show your passport on subsequent days and receive a 20 per cent discount on your entry.

Visit www.conservationhalton.ca and www.fallintonature.ca for event details and be sure to come our parks and experience the best of the season.

Fall into Nature is made possible in part through the generous support of the Government of Ontario Celebrate Ontario Program. Conservation Halton launched its first Fall into Nature festival in 2009 and over 28,000 people attended, last year over 45,000 people attended.

Conservation Halton Sociable: Connect with us

Stay updated and join the conversation with Conservation Halton. Connect with us via Facebook, Flickr, Twitter and YouTube for exclusive offers, park updates and marquee events. Click here to find out where you can connect with us.

Guest Blogger, Norm Miller, Conservation Halton

Get Cooking in Burlington

2011-10-05T09:18:00.001-04:00

This is the time of year when many of us return to our kitchens and comfort food becomes part of our vocabulary as the cooler temperatures descend on us. For those of us looking for inspiration this fall and winter, Burlington has a wide range of cooking classes available to suit everyone from the beginner learning to cook to the master of the kitchen looking for new ideas.

The Chefs at Paradiso Restaurant are ready to head back into their in-restaurant cooking studio to teach you how to prepare a wide variety of dishes sure to please every palate.

We asked Elizabeth, one of our travel counselors to share her Paradiso experience with you (and us).

Cooking @ Paradiso

"Whether you are a seasoned home chef or just starting to try your hand at making a great dinner, you will truly enjoy a cooking class at Paradiso Restaurant, located in the heart of Village Square downtown. My fiancé and I became students for an evening this past January and were excited to add to our growing cooking skills and learn some recipes to impress ourselves and our guests at home. Along with the other 10 participants, we were first taught the basics of working in a restaurant kitchen, from how to walk around the fridges and stoves safely, how to tie your apron like a pro, and how to expertly chop the various ingredients and not our fingers! We were then introduced to the 3-course menu for the evening: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup to start, Moroccan Chicken Supreme with Spiced Potatoes and French Green Beans, and Dark Chocolate Truffle Torte to finish.

We divided into groups that were then each in charge of one or two parts of the meal. With our group, we prepared and stuffed the chicken, peeled and sliced potatoes, and made spice rubs. Our instructor (a Paradiso chef) was wonderful. She circulated around each group, giving tips and pointers about each step along the way and made sure we were all having a great time too. After about an hour or so of hard work and fun in the kitchen, we headed back into the dining room while everything cooked and the finishing touches were completed by the real professionals.

@ Paradiso

Each delicious course was greeted by cheers and compliments to the group that prepared it. Everything tasted even better than Paradiso’s always excellent food, knowing we had helped to create it! By the end of the evening, we not only felt full of an amazing dinner, but also that we had learned many new skills and recipes that we could try and re-create on our own. We happily took home our pamphlets outlining the ingredients and steps for each dish and have even successfully made a couple of the recipes since that evening. Choose any one of Paradiso’s themed cooking classes and be prepared to work hard, learn a lot, have fun, and eat a fabulous meal all in one great night!"

We are pleased to offer you a sneak peek at what classes Paradiso will be offering this autumn. For full class details, pricing and booking information please visit the website.

Paradiso Cooking Studio Schedule

Wednesday Oct. 5 – Pasta & Sauces

Tuesday Oct. 11 – Tour of Tuscany

Wednesday Oct. 19 – Evening in Greece

Tuesday Oct. 25 – Fish & Shellfish

Thursday Nov. 3 – BBQ & Salsas

Tuesday Nov. 8 – Evening in Spain

Thursday Nov. 10 – Signature Dishes of Paradiso

Tuesday Nov. 15 – Tapas Style Cocktail Party

Head down Brant Street in Downtown Burlington you will find the Stir Kitchen Store which is a dream come true for the chef in all of us. Not only does this store carry a wide variety of kitchen tools that set the standard for excellence in the industry, but they can teach you to cook as well at their in store cooking classes.

Pasta class @ Stir Kitchen

Stir cooking classes will teach you the fine art of cooking everything from appetizers to desserts. In the demonstration based classes, the chef prepares the meal in front of you and you are served a full course meal including an appetizer, entrée and dessert. Participants receive the full recipe and instructions to take home with them. Stir also offers hands-on classes that allow you to make the dish from scratch with instruction from the chef. After completing the hands-on class, participants eat what they have prepared.

Homemade pasta @Stir Kitchen

Stir has a wonderful group of talented chefs working with them. Chefs that have taught here include Chris Haworth from Spencer’s, Michael Levin from Walker’s Fish Market, personal chef and cookbook author Geeta Maini, French chef Andre Donnet, Luca Rosa, Fabiola Gonzalez and more. They are always looking for new talent and trying to expand their repertoire of classes such as Gluten free and vegan classes, as well as knife skills classes.

If you are ready to give it a try, check out the class schedule below and visit their website for details.

Stir Kitchen Schedule:

Oct 2 - Hands-On Pasta Making Class with Chef Luca Rosa

Oct 13 -Welcome to the delicious world of Indian food with Chef & Author Geeta Maini.

Oct 20 - Sauce Class with Chef Andre Donnet

Oct 22 - Ghoulish delights!

Oct 23 - Hands-on Fusion Class with Chef and cookbook author Geeta Maini.

Oct 28 - Moroccan Cooking with Nezha Saad

Nov 3 - French Cooking with Chef Andre Donnet

Nov 5 - Holiday Appetizer Class 1 with Chef Fabiola Gonzalez

Nov 12 - Holiday Appetizer Class II with Chef Fabiola Gonzalez

Nov 19 - Holiday Baking Class with Chef Fabiola Gonzalez

Burlington is fortunate to be home to two vegan restaurants that offer cooking classes and workshops throughout the year.

Chef Peter @ Naked Sprout

The Naked Sprout in North Burlington is a full-service vegan restaurant that offers cooking classes in a demonstration format. They currently do not have any classes scheduled but check their website for updates. For those interested in trying to go “raw” consider attending the 7-day raw food challenge workshop and information session. More information is available here.

Kindfood in Downtown Burlington is a combination gluten-free, vegan bakery/café/store. Kindfood runs one of the most interesting, motivating, fun, interactive, and delicious cooking classes in the GTA. The cooking class is lead by the Owner of Kindfood, Kelly Childs, and her daughter Erinn Weatherbie who is also an owner of Kindfood. They offer a bright, fresh take on cooking and how to eat a healthy whole foods, plant-based diet, in other words there is no meat, cheese, dairy, or any animal product of any kind in their food. Dates have not be determined for the next round of cooking classes, however they are planning on running more this fall. Look for a schedule to be posted on their facebook page or website at http://www.kindfood.com/

Burlington is one of a handful of locations that feature LCBO cooking classes. At the Millcroft location you can meet some of the finest chefs and learn about their personal cooking techniques as well as, what LCBO products compliment your menus. Cooking Classes include a small food sample of each dish and a wine match for some of the menu selected by LCBO Consultants.

LCBO Millcroft Schedule:

Thursday, October 6 - Give Thanks - *Full-meal class

Saturday, October 8 - Stress-Free Entertaining

Thursday, October 13 -Tastes Of An Italian-Inspired Harvest Menu

Saturday, October 15 -Stylish And Sophisticated Indian Cooking

Thursday, October 20 -What's For Dinner?

Saturday, October 22 -Anytime Entertaining Options

Tuesday, October 25 -The Elegant Vegetarian

Thursday, October 27 -Autumn Flavours

Saturday, October 29 -Entertaining With Pastries

Saturday, November 5 -Culinary Masterpieces - *Featured Chef

Thursday, November 10 -Delicious Make-Ahead Dinner

Saturday, November 12 -Savvy Entertaining Shortcuts

Tuesday, November 15 -Asian Finger Foods Part One

Wednesday, November 16 -Asian Finger Foods Part Two

Thursday, November 17 -Black-Tie Dining

Saturday, November 19 -Sweet And Savoury Holiday Treats

Thursday, November 24 -Spirited Cuisine

Saturday, November 26 -Baker's Secrets And Fabulous Cookies And Squares

Tuesday, November 29 -Home For The Holidays

Visit the website for more details on available classes and registration.

This winter a Taste of Burlington will be partnering with GO Cooking at the Hamilton Spectator to present a series of cooking classes featuring chefs from select Taste of Burlington restaurants. GO Cooking classes are a chef's table format were you can interact with the chef as (s)he prepares taste sensations, plus sample the wine-consultant's pairings uniquely selected for each plate that is served. Visit the website for current class offering and watch for Taste classes running February/March 2012.

I don’t know about you but we are ready to get out and get cooking. We would love to hear about your culinary experiences in Burlington, please email us your stories and photos.

Cheers and Bon Appétit!

Oh the Drama and more!

2011-09-26T13:13:00.000-04:00

If all the world is a stage, Burlington is home to many of its players, performers and portrayers.

Burlington is now home to The Burlington Performing Arts Centre which in addition to being an amazing entertainment venue is an architectural and urban design landmark built to LEED principles. The 2011-2012 season is going to be a great one with a diverse range of performances that ensures there is something for everyone. For those that can’t wait, The Centre will be opening its doors throughout October for the general public to tour the Main Theatre, Community Studio Theatre as well as, the Family Lobby. Dates and times can be found on the website.

Royal Wood. Photo courtesy of BPAC

The season will launch on Saturday October 1st with an exclusive performance by Royal Wood as part of his Sneak Peak tour, performing new songs, old favourites and interesting covers. The launch also includes a multi-media presentation of the inaugural season line-up. Next up is Stuart McLean & The Vinyl Café on October 30th his first show has sold out and a second performance has been added. Join Stuart for an afternoon of humor, essays and stories plus featured musical guests, Burlington’s own Melissa McClelland and Luke Doucet.

Adrianne Pieczonka. Photo courtesy of BPAC

For those that are a fan of extraordinary vocalists you won’t want to miss seeing Adrianne Pieczonka on November 10th. This Burlington native and Juno award winner features an intimate evening of music from Broadway to Bach. November 25th Lunch at Allen’s a musical revue with Murray McLaughlin, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan and Ian Thomas is not to be missed.

Sunday November 27th is Family Day at the Centre. In the Main Theatre Quebec dance company Sursaut presents At Nightfall, the story of a shoemaker that discovers what joys exist outside his workshop. In the Community Studio Theatre families will be treated to a performance of Simple Gifts by Cashore Marionettes. In addition to the productions featured, families will enjoy lobby entertainment plus the opportunity to participate in “hands on” arts experiences with professionals from the Burlington Art Centre.

Dance lovers will not want to miss In Paradisum, by Canada’s Coleman, Lemieux & Compagnie on November 29th. In Paradisum is described as, “…quintessential Kudelka. It has the natural flexibility and range of modern dance supported by the precision of classical dance.” This presentation features three brilliant modern dance performances.

Russell deCarle. Photo courtesy of BPAC

The Community Studio Theatre will also host many fabulous performances including: I, Claudia, and An Acoustic Evening: Russell deCarle with Steve Briggs and Denis Keldie

Be sure to also support our local talent that will be shining at The Centre including, Hamilton native Jacob Moon; The Burlington Teen Tour Band; The Burlington Concert Band; The Canadian Male Orpheus Choir and the Top Hat Marching Orchestra.

On December 1st you will want to attend “Celebration!” A Blue Jeans Gala featuring a diverse group of performers with one thing in common - they are all "Burlingtonians". Some of the featured performers include: The Spoons, Gordie Tapp, Myles Erlick, Silverstein and more!

Saturday December 3rd is a Red Carpet Evening with Sarah McLachlan. The official opening of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of a “red carpet” experience. Also coming in December just in time for the holidays are The Nutcracker by the State Ballet Theatre of Russia, a Leahy Family Christmas and Irish Rovers Christmas. For the complete 2011-2012 season please visit the website and stay tuned for an upcoming blog on the official opening of The Centre.

Community Theatre is alive and well in Burlington, you can look forward to some great productions from both Theatre Burlington and Drury Lane Theatre.

Theatre Burlington is a local community theatre founded in 1952. Throughout the years this group of actors has brought many performances to the stage and this year is no exception.

“You Can’t Dance to Mozart” will be running Thursday to Saturday until October 1st. This comedy features Dan Scott as Barney a pensioner who partners with Kate (played by Janine Heaven) a retired schoolteacher to bring down their landlord who has raised the rent.

Next up is the Annual Children’s Show featuring “Rumplestiltskin” The classic story come to life. This Brothers Grimm fairy tale tells the story of a pretty daughter of a poor miller who is forced to turn straw into gold by the King after her father deceives him with lies of her talents. A happy ending ensues and a lesson is learned by all.
Performances are held at Drama Centre - Central Park, 2311 New Street . For more dates, show times and tickets for any of Theatre Burlington performances please visit their website.

Drury Lane has been one of Burlington’s premier musical theatre groups since 1974. This year they will be presenting Nunsense II from October 28th to November 26th. This musical comedy picks up with the Little Sisters of Hoboken strutting their stuff on stage with the rumor of a talent scout in the audience and with added audience participation this is one show you will be sure to enjoy.

Drury Lane Theatre is located at 2269 New Street. For more dates, show times and tickets for any of Drury Lane’s performances please visit their website.

If you are a fan of dinner theatre, be sure to check out the Mohawk Dinner Theatre at Mohawk Raceway. All show include lunch/dinner and if you feel lucky, stay for the horseracing or visit the casino.

First up at Mohawk Dinner Theatre is Steel Magnolias running September 16 - October 22. This dramedy traces a group of gossiping southern ladies through the trials and triumphs of their lives. Many will remember the film version starring a young Julia Roberts and Sally Field. This touching story is not to be missed.

Next on the playbill is Sinners. This black comedy by Canadian playwright Norm Foster weaves an intricate web of deceit hilariously exposed after a store owners affair with a local minister’s wife is found out.

For more dates, show times and tickets for any Mohawk Dinner Theatre performances please visit their website.

Mark your calendars and order your tickets now to take in the best in dance, music and theatre that Burlington has to offer.

Burlington – the apple of our eye!

2011-09-19T10:29:00.000-04:00

Fall is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the cooler temperatures and fruits of the season.

Chudleigh's Farm

Instead of visiting the grocery store, consider heading to one of our local farms to stock up on farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. Burlington/Halton are home to many pick your own apple farms including: Applevale Orchards or Bousfield’s Apples and Cider both on Derry Road in Burlington, Chudleigh’s Farm or Willis Family Fruit Farm in Milton or William’s Orchards on Hume Court or Wheelbarrow Orchards in Halton Hills. Nothing tastes better than an apple straight from the tree!

Many of these farms also have “entertainment” such as children’s play areas, wagon rides, and more. Let’s get out and get pickin’!

Applefest

On Sunday September 25th you will want to head to Ireland House at Oakridge Farm for the Applefest Fall Fair - an old-fashioned fall fair right in the city! You will enjoy the fruit of the season and can take part in family fun activities including scarecrow making, pony rides, face painting and more. In addition to all the other great activities happening throughout the day, you will have a chance to tour the museum and see demos of pioneer apple schnitzing and old-time apple cider making. There will be artisans and performers on hand to keep you entertained and when you get hungry just stop by the country BBQ and pick up some lunch. Top it off with a delicious apple treat including apple blossoms with caramel sauce, apple cider and of course, apple pie and you have the making of an amazing day. For those that rise early, you can enjoy a pancake breakfast from 9-11am featuring country-style homemade pancakes and specialty syrup. Admission to this event is by donation although some activities and food are at an additional charge.

Springridge Harvest Festival

Springridge Farm

For those that want apples without the picking you can stop by Springridge Farm for apples and apple cider in the farm market and apple crumble in the bakery. Not only does Springridge Farm feature an amazing bakery, farm market and gift shop but, beginning weekends on Saturday September 24th they will be running their Harvest Festival. This family friendly event features activities throughout the day including a professional puppet show, wagon rides to the 5-acre corn trail, a Boo barn, pony rides($) and face painting. If your kids (and you) are looking for more fun head to the onsite fun farm yard which includes the new spiderweb climber and farm yard pipe slide. You can visit the animals in the farm barn; hike up the hill to the escarpment educational lookout; play in the giant sandbox; try your hand at milking the plywood cow; work your way through the witch’s mouth corn trail, tricky trails and corn maze and more! After working up an appetite enjoy lunch with their weekend BBQ or stop by their bakery for a sweet treat. Admission is $10.00 per person (ages 2 and up).

Not a baker? No problem, enjoy a delicious meal and top it off with apple goodness at many of our Burlington restaurants including:

The Water Street Cooker are featuring a homemade giant cookie with local (Paula Red) apples roasted in white balsamic vinegar and ice cream.
The Downtown Bistro are featuring a house made apple crumble with apples fresh from our Burlington Mall Farmer’s Market.
The Black Bull Restaurant & British Pub are featuring Chudleigh's Apple Blossom and ice cream.
The Red Canoe Bistro has been visiting the Burlington Mall Farmer’s Market for fresh apples to create, Flash smoked "Marigold" Chicken, Chevre and Apple stuffing, local Beauregard Yam Mash, Roast Market Apple and Shallot Jus.

We hope you are ready to enjoy the fall and we look forward to sharing with you all the great things to do year round in Burlington.