Summer is in full swing! There is no shortage of fun and things to do in Halton, Hamilton and beyond. Whether you want to hit the links, refresh with a swim, pop by a festival, or tour a farmers’ market, our list of things to do in the West GTA will keep you (and the kids) busy this summer.

Local Attractions in the West GTA

Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington has over 2,700 acres of natural beauty, manicured gardens, and stunning walking trails. You can stroll through the gardens, walk the trails, and learn about gardening, birdwatching, and conservation efforts. Home to over 235,000 plants, RBG also hosts various events and workshops throughout the summer.

Visit African Lion Safari to get up close to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals worldwide. Drive through the game reserve, watch & learn with an animal presentation, take a boat cruise, or play at the splash pad and playground.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a gorgeous campground in Oakville where you can pop up a tent or park your RV. Your whole family will have a fun camping adventure with an outdoor swimming pool, five hiking trails, a disc golf course, and a children’s farm.

Swimming in the West GTA

Unwind and soak up the sun at Toronto’s stunning beaches. The West GTA is home to several sandy stretches along Lake Ontario, including Woodbine Beach, Cherry Beach, and Hanlan’s Point Beach. Whether you want to swim, play volleyball, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family, these beaches offer the perfect setting. Many of them have designated barbecue areas and walking trails, making them ideal for a day of relaxation and outdoor recreation.

If you prefer a pool setting, Access Storage presents free swimming throughout Burlington at various times and pools throughout the city. For dates and times, check out the City of Burlington website.

Halton Festivals in Summer 2023

May 20 – Oct 13 – Feels Like Summer @ Celebration Square in Mississauga

Pop by Celebration Square in Mississauga to celebrate the Feels of Summer! Various events will run all summer, from food festivals to live concerts and outdoor fitness classes.

June 18 – Aug 27 – Concert in the Park  

Every Wednesday and Sunday from 7:30-9:00, enjoy live music this summer at Burlington’s Central Park. Grab a picnic blanket, and head to New St. to hear some incredible local musicians.

July 21 – Burlington Food Truck Festival

Thirty food trucks will be dishing up fantastic eats over three days during the Burlington Food Truck Festival. You’ll find cold beer, delicious food, and local performers.

July 28 – 30 – Milton Rib and Beer Festival

A whole weekend of BBQ, beer, and local performers! Hosted at the Community Sports Park, The Milton Rib Fest is a popular event among the locals, with unique performers this year, including The Canine Circus and Pirate Life for the kids.  

July 30 – Oakville Ribfest

The Oakville Family Ribfest is Oakville’s most prominent event! Hosted at Sheridan College this year, the event is packed with ribs, sweet treats, music, and fun!

Aug 7 – Art in the Park Oakville

Art in the Park attracts thousands of visitors to the Bronte Waterfront. You can see the works of over 175 artists around the country, covering all mediums, from paintings and sculptures to photography and jewelry.

Aug 12 – Milton African and Multicultural Festival

The Milton African and Multicultural Festival aims to “get everyone, youth and adults alike, involved in an organized festival to bring the energy, excitement and history of our people, philosophy, values, and principles.” A full lineup of events will occur throughout the town of Milton all weekend long.

Aug 12 – Doors Open Burlington

Doors Open Burlington celebrates the city’s 150th anniversary this year, exploring the culture and heritage in Burlington. All involved sites throughout the city offer free admission and activities.

Aug 12 – The Antique Market

Over 80 vendors from Ontario and Quebec will gather at the Small Arms Inspection Building in Mississauga this summer. You can shop for one-of-a-kind antiques from Victorian to mid-century modern.

Aug 26 – Monster Trucks All Out

Come on out to Paramount Fine Foods Centre for Monster Trucks All Out! You’ll see nationally recognized monster trucks like Bucking Bronco and Canadian Crusher; you can meet the driver and ride in a real monster truck!

Farmers Markets in the West GTA 2023

The Hamilton Farmer’s Market

Open all year from Tuesday-Saturday, the Hamilton Farmers Market is located at 35 York Blvd., Hamilton. Since 1837, the market has been home to over 50 vendors serving food, produce, baked goods and artisan products.

Ancaster Farmer’s Market

You can visit the Ancaster Farmers Market every Wednesday, June through October, from 3 pm – 7 pm at 357 Wilson St E, Ancaster. The market is within walking distance of many local neighbourhoods and is the perfect place to find fresh produce grown by local farmers.

Waterdown Village Farmer’s Market

The Waterdown Farmers Market runs Saturdays starting May 27, 2023, and is located at 79 Hamilton St. You can find everything from local honey and produce to freshly made sausage, flowers, and gifts.

Dundas Farmers’ Market

From June to October, the Dundas Market runs every Thursday at Municipal Parking Lot D (Hatt Street and Miller’s Lane). The market was revitalized in 2008 to connect farmers and consumers, providing an outlet to find locally grown and made foods.

Burlington Centre Lion’s Farmer’s Market

Open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from May -October, the Burlington Farmers Market brings vendors together at 777 Guelph Line in Burlington, Ontario. Vendors offer an excellent selection of locally grown produce, meat, cheese and eggs, delicious and fresh, straight from the farm.

Ottawa Street Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday, the Ottawa Street Farmers Market is open all year in Municipal Lot 2C (beside 3 Britannia Ave) in Hamilton. It features a great selection of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, all from vendors within 100 km of the market. You can also browse a selection of local raw honey, dog treats, natural skin care products and VQA wines.

The Milton Farmers’ Market

Starting the May long weekend, The Milton Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm at the Milton Fairgrounds, 136 Robert Street, Milton, Ontario. With over 50 vendors, you can browse fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, and treats.

Golfing in the West GTA

From Mississauga to Hamilton, you have an abundance of beautiful courses to choose from this summer! Pop in to Mount Nemo, Milcroft Golf Club, or the Burlington Golf and Country Club, all within Burlington. Or try Credit Valley Golf Course in Mississauga or Glen Abbey Golf Course (one of Canada’s most famous courses!).

Summer is a fun and busy time in the West GTA! With colourful festivals, local events, beautiful beaches, and fantastic golf courses, there is something for everyone. The David Bradica Team wishes you and your family a fun-filled and exciting summer!