Things to do this weekend in Hamilton: Dec. 13 to Dec. 15

If you’re looking to travel somewhere fun without leaving town, Hamilton has just the right mix of festive cheer and local charm to make your season special this weekend. From nostalgic holiday movies and dazzling light displays to train rides, historical tours, musicals and concerts, there’s lots of fun to be had. Here’s some events happening from Dec. 13 to Dec. 15:

December 13

Handel’s Messiah (Dec. 13 and Dec. 15) 

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra (HPO) and the Bach Elgar Choir unite to perform Handel’s Messiah, a cherished holiday masterpiece. From the delicate opening to the grandeur of the Hallelujah Chorus, this concert promises to inspire and uplift audiences.

Where: 620 Rymal Rd. E. (St. Catherine of Siena, Roman Catholic Church)
When:

• Dec. 13, 2024 — 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
• Dec. 15, 2024 — 3 p.m. (Doors open at 2:00 p.m.)
  Cost: $20.00–$45.00

Botanical Train Display

It’s full steam ahead into the holiday season at Royal Botanical Gardens! Explore over 250 feet of the track featuring model trains travelling through some of Canada’s most notable landmarks, all constructed from natural materials and decorated with seasonal botanicals. The display is open during the day and also during the enchanting Winter Wonders evening experience (separate tickets required).

When: Nov. 30, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025
Where: 680 Plains Rd. W. (Royal Botanical Gardens)
Time:

• Thursdays to Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (last admission 3:00 p.m.);
• Winter Wonders evenings, 5 p.m.–10 p.m.

Cost: Adults $19.50, Seniors/Students $16.50, Children $11.50, Infants Free.

Winter Past Times at Battlefield House

Walk the historic grounds of Battlefield Park and experience the charm of an early 19th-century winter at the Gage family home. The house comes alive with evergreen boughs on the mantles and the aromas of the season, offering a glimpse into the warmth and simplicity of winter celebrations from another era.

When: Nov. 30, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025
Where: 77 King St. W. (Battlefield House Museum & Park)
Time: Tuesday to Sunday—12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Adults $10.00, Seniors/Students $8.50, Children $6.00, Infants Free, Family $27.50.

December 14

Villages Concert

Experience the enchanting sounds of Cape Breton Island with the folk-rock quartet Villages. Their music, inspired by the island’s natural beauty and metaphors of life’s journey, blends traditional Celtic influences with indie and folk rock for an unforgettable performance.

Where: 24 Main St. W. (The Music Hall)
Time:  6 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Live Music at Saltfleet Library

Enjoy a special holiday performance by the Peter Banting Swingtet, an eight-piece band featuring Broadway tunes and big band music.

Where: 131 Gray Rd. (Saltfleet Branch, Auditorium)
Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free

Home for the Holidays

Get into the festive spirit with a heartwarming concert featuring the Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, celebrating its 60th year. The Hamilton Children’s Choir and Defining Dance Movement will also be part of the show. Conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser will lead the performances.

Where: 1 Summers Ln. (FirstOntario Concert Hall)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $23.50–$98.50. (A $3.50 Facilities Fee is added to each live ticket purchased.)

The Hip Experience

Renowned for their dynamic renditions, The Hip Experience has become a fan-favourite, bringing the energy and spirit of The Tragically Hip to life in every performance.

Where: 141 Park St. N.
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: $35 + HST

Teeth the Season II: Charity Show

KPJ Promotions presents the second edition of Teeth the Season. Enjoy a night of great music, featuring nine bands performing from 7 p.m. until last call. Raise your glass and some funds for those in need!

Where: 56 Hess St. S.
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Dundurn Castle Christmas Celebration

Explore the beautifully decorated historic site adorned with cedar boughs, ribbons and dried flowers.

Where: 610 York Blvd. (Dundurn National Historic Site)
When: Nov. 24 to Jan. 5, 2025 —12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost:

• Adult (18–59 years): $15.50
• Senior (60+ years): $13.25
• Student (13–17 years): $13.25 (valid student ID required)
• Child (6–12 years): $9.50
• Infant (5 years or younger): Free
• Family (2 adults & unlimited dependent children under 18 years): $42.50

Whitehern: A Christmas for the Ages

Step back in time to experience the McQuesten family’s holiday celebrations from the 1850s, 1870s, and 1930s. Explore everything from the toys under the tree to the fine china used for festive dinners.

When: Nov. 24, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025
Where: 41 Jackson St. W. (Whitehern Historic House & Garden)
Time: 12 p.m.–4 p.m. (Timed tours at 12:10 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.)
Cost: Adults $9.00, Seniors $7.75, Students $7.75, Children $5.50, Infants Free, Family $24.75

A Christmas Story, The Musical

Get into the holiday spirit with the timeless classic A Christmas Story brought to life on stage as a musical at Theatre Aquarius. Fans of the beloved movie will not want to miss this magical holiday performance.

When: Dec. 4–Dec. 21
Where: 190 King William St. (Theatre Aquarius)
Cost: Tickets start at $30.51.

Dickens of a Christmas

Step into a Hallmark Christmas Movie in Downtown Dundas with Dickens of a Christmas. Every weekend, enjoy the holiday charm with free horse and carriage rides, hot apple cider, street entertainment and a strolling Santa. Don’t forget the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick off the festivities!

Where: Memorial Square, Downtown Dundas
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free parking in city lots on weekends throughout December.

Ancaster Christmas Craft Show

The Ancaster Christmas Craft Show will feature handmade crafts, holiday gifts and much more. This is your chance to shop local and find unique treasures for the season.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 630 Trinity Rd. S. (Ancaster Fairgrounds)
Cost: $7.72 (Kids under 10 enter free; parking is free).

Family Movies at Hamilton Libraries

Family Movies at Barton Branch
Movie: Abominable (2019) PG
Where: 571 Barton St. E.
Time: 1 p.m.

Family Movies at Valley Park Branch
Movie: Rise of the Guardians (2012) PG
Where: 970 Paramount Dr.
Time: 1 p.m.

Family Movies at Saltfleet Branch
Movie: The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) PG
Where: 131 Grays Rd.
Time: 1 p.m.

Family Movies at Red Hill Branch
Movie: Elf (2004) G
Where: 695 Queenston Rd.
Time: 2 p.m.

Family Movies at Turner Park Branch
Movie: Home Alone 2 (1992) PG
Where: 352 Rymal Rd. E.
Time: 2 p.m.

Family Movies at Stoney Creek Branch
Movie: Jingle All the Way (1996) PG
Where: 777 Highway 8
Time: 2:30 p.m.

December 15

Hell Bent Rockers – X-Mas Show and Toy Drive

Join the Hell Bent Rockers, a high-energy rockabilly quartet, for a festive show that combines the authentic 50s rockabilly sound with lively rock & roll. Known for their electric performances, this Hamilton-based band will have you on your feet and dancing in no time.

Where: 339 York Blvd. (Stonewalls Restaurant)
Time: 3 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

RBG Express Holiday Train Ride

Make holiday memories with your family on the RBG Express. Bundle up and hop aboard for a festive train ride through the scenic winter grounds of Hendrie Park.

When: Dec. 5, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025 (Date exceptions: Dec. 25, 26, Jan. 1. Early closure on Dec. 24 and 31 with the final train at 2:15 p.m.)
Where: 680 Plains Rd. W. (Royal Botanical Gardens)
Time: First train at 10:15 a.m., last train at 2:45 p.m. (Trains depart every 15 minutes.)
Cost: $10 per train car (+HST), maximum four people per car. RBG admission or membership is required for entry. This add-on experience is not available during Winter Wonders.

Winter Wonders

Experience the festive wonder of the season at Royal Botanical Gardens’ Winter Wonders. Hendrie Park transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, with dazzling lights, festive installations, and enchanting displays.

When: Dec. 5, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025 (Thursdays to Sundays; date exceptions apply)
Where: 680 Plains Rd. W. (Royal Botanical Gardens)
Time: Timed-ticketed experience (entry time selected upon registration)
Cost:

• Adult: $20 (+HST & $1 service fee)
• Child (3–12): $16 (+HST & $1 service fee)
• Infant/Toddler (0–2): FREE
• RBG Members: $10 (+HST & $1 service fee)

Santa’s Polar Progressive Express

Celebrate the holidays with Santa’s Polar Progressive Express at Puddicombe Estate Farm.

Bundle up the kids for a magical day featuring hot chocolate, Christmas crafts, a winter train ride, and the chance to hand-deliver your letter to Santa. It’s a festive family experience you won’t want to miss.

Where: 1468 Hamilton Regional Rd 8
When: Times range from 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., or 2:30 p.m.
Cost: From CA$27.92

—Cover photo via tourismhamilton.com