Things to do this weekend in Hamilton: Dec. 6 to Dec. 8

As the holiday spirit fills the air, grab your coats and scarves for outdoor festivities like tree lightings, or stay warm indoors with holiday markets and family-friendly movie screenings. Whether you’re shopping local or enjoying festive entertainment, Hamilton has something for everyone this weekend. Here’s what’s going on from Dec. 6 to Dec. 8:

December 6

Tree Lighting at Gore Park
Kick off the holiday season in downtown Hamilton with the annual Tree Lighting event at Gore Park. This free, family-friendly celebration supports the Children’s Fund Christmas Tree of Hope, helping local charities bring joy to children and families.

Where:  1 Hughson St. S.
Time:  5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

What to Expect:

• Photos with Santa during his special visit.
• Fresh maple taffy and other sweet treats.
• Live holiday music performances.
• Free carousel rides from 5–8 p.m. on Dec. 6, and daily from Dec. 7–20, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Countdown to the Christmas Tree of Hope lighting at 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Evening Tours

Begin the evening with carol-singing in the front hall, followed by an extended tour of Sir Allan MacNab’s home, beautifully adorned for the holiday season. Conclude your visit with a sampling of traditional foods served in the historic kitchen.

Where: 610 York Blvd. (Dundurn Castle)
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: $45 per person (Pre-registration required)

The Mom Market Hamilton

Join a vibrant community of small business owners for a unique market experience. Support local makers and businesses while connecting with others in the community.

Where: 303 Ottawa St. N. (Crown + Press)
Time:

• Dec. 6— 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Dec. 7—9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cost: Unspecified

December 7

Family movies at Hamilton Libraries

Family Movies at Barton Branch
Movie: Despicable Me 4 (2024) PG
Where: 571 Barton St. E.
Time: 1 p.m.

Family Movies at Valley Park Branch
Movie: Happy Feet (2006) PG
Where: 970 Paramount Dr.
Time: 1 p.m.

Family Movies at Turner Park Branch
Movie: Home Alone (1990) PG
Where: 352 Rymal Rd. E.
Time: 2 p.m.

Family Movies at Red Hill Branch
Movie: Jingle All the Way (2007) PG
Where: 695 Queenston Rd.
Time: 2 p.m.

Family Movies at Stoney Creek Branch
Movie: Abominable (2019) PG
Where: 777 Highway 8
Time: 2:30 p.m.

The Nutcracker – A Canadian Tradition

Experience the magic of this timeless ballet in a uniquely Canadian rendition set to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score.

Where: 1 Summers Ln (FirstOntario Concert Hall)
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Tickets from $78.80 USD. All tickets are processed in U.S. dollars.

We Fight for Starlight

Catch the action and help make the holidays brighter at this exciting event. Get your tickets or donate a new, unwrapped toy at the door.

Where: 1 Summers Ln (Hamilton Convention Centre)
Time: 6 p.m.
Cost: General admission $10; VIP $20.

Hamilton Paramedic Toy Drive

Donate a toy to help bring joy to children in need this holiday season. Meet Howler, the Hamilton Paramedic mascot and check out some of the popular toy items for 2024.

Where: 510 Centennial Pkwy N. (Walmart)
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free (donation of a toy encouraged).

West Avenue Cider Sip & Shop Market

Celebrate the holiday season with festive cheer, delicious food, and unique gifts from local artisans. Enjoy cozy vibes, cider releases, and an incredible selection of vendors.

Where: 84 Concession Rd. 8 E. (West Avenue Cider House)
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free

Holiday Cheer on Ottawa Street North

Discover unique gifts from local businesses, enjoy free holiday treats, and participate in family-friendly fun.

Where: Ottawa Street North, from Main St. to Barton St.
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free

Craftadian Hamilton (Dec. 7 and Dec. 8) 

Explore a flagship handmade market featuring a curated selection of 150 makers and artisan food vendors, with a different lineup each day.

Where: 175 Longwood Rd. S. (McMaster Innovation Park)
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $5 online in advance; $6 at the door (admission valid all weekend).

Fairweather Holiday Market

Mark your calendars for a festive weekend at the Fairweather Holiday Market. Enjoy local vendors, holiday vibes and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Where: 5 Ofield R. (Fairweather Brewing Co.)
Time:

• Dec. 7—12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Dec. 8—12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free entry.

December 8

Musical Magic of Christmas

Enjoy a festive singalong led by conductor Martin MacDonald in his iconic Christmas sweater, along with a variety of cheerful surprises.

Where: 1280 Main St. W. ( L.R. Wilson Concert Hall (McMaster University)
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: $25–$55 plus applicable fees.

Songs of the Evening Sky

Join Hamilton Sings!, a no-audition, mixed-voice choir, for their annual winter concert celebrating the beauty of the night sky. Enjoy a variety of music from around the world, along with a bake sale and silent auction.

Where: 155 Ottawa St. N. (Laidlaw Memorial United Church)
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: $20 or pay what you can (cash only at the door).

Melissa Ouimet

Franco-Ontarian singer-songwriter Melissa Ouimet brings her electrifying French pop performance to Hamilton.

Where: 141 Park St. N. (The Gasworks)
Time: Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Hamilton Military Collector Show

Explore a wide range of militaria and collectibles at the HMCS Ancaster/Hamilton Gun and Militaria Show. Hosted by the Hamilton Militaria Collectors Society, this event brings together enthusiasts and collectors in compliance with all federal and local firearm laws.

Where: 630 Trinity Rd. S. (Ancaster Fairgrounds)
Time:  8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: $5 admission.

Weston Silver Band: Christmas in Silver

Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of festive cheer with a joyful program of holiday favourites, including sing-along classics for the whole family.

Where: 1014 King St. W. (The Westdale)
Time: 3 p.m. (duration: 120 minutes).
Cost: $30; children 12 and under free.

—Cover photo via hamilton.ca