Things to do this weekend in Hamilton: Nov. 15 to Nov. 17

If you’re eager to get into the holiday spirit, Hamilton has plenty to offer this week. With seasonal markets, a Santa Claus parade and family-friendly movie screenings, there’s no better time to enjoy festive fun around the city. Here’s a look at what’s happening from Nov. 15 to Nov. 17:

November 15

The Master Plan (Oct. 30 to Nov. 16, 2024)
A satirical production on the failed smart city project in Toronto, shedding light on the corporate drama and iconic Canadian personalities involved.
Where: 190 King William St. (Theatre Aquarius)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $30.51

Long-Term Exhibitions and Events:

Directors Collect: 110 Years
A showcase of selections by the six directors who have shaped the AGH collection, providing a historical perspective on its evolution.
Where:  123 King St. W.—Art Gallery of Hamilton
Time: Ongoing until Jan. 5, 2025
Cost: General admission applies

Jan Wade: Soul Power
An exhibition highlighting Jan Wade’s mixed-media work, from paintings to textiles and sculptures.
Where: 123 King St. W.— Art Gallery of Hamilton
Time: Ongoing until Jan. 5, 2025
Cost: General admission applies

SoundBites by Roger Mooking
A multisensory experience of art, text and sound that explores the chaos of modern life.
Where: 123 King St. W.—Art Gallery of Hamilton
Time: Ongoing until Feb. 23, 2025
Cost: General admission applies

RBC Artist in Residence: Alex Jacobs-Blum
Explores the path of the total eclipse as a metaphor for the journey of peace among the Hodinöhsöni’ Nations.
Where:  123 King St. W.—Art Gallery of Hamilton
Time: Ongoing until March 16, 2025
Cost: General admission applies

Making Freedom Fly
Explore stories of the Royal Canadian Air Force and home front through WWII archives and tech displays.
Where: 9280 Airport Rd.—Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Time: Ongoing
Cost: General admission applies

Crossing Borders: Coins from Around the World
An exploration of the shared traits of global currency through material, design, and style.
Where: 1280 Main St. W.—McMaster Museum of Art
Time: Ongoing until Nov. 30, 2024
Cost:  General admission applies

Celebrating 150 Years of Connection
The exhibit honours the HSR’s legacy with artifacts and forward-looking transit innovations.
Where: 28 James St. N.—Tourism Hamilton Visitor Experience Centre
Time: Ongoing until Dec. 21, 2024
Cost:  General admission applies

November 16

Ancaster Christmas Market

Experience the rustic charm of the Ancaster Christmas Market, now expanded with two halls. Discover unique handmade treasures for stocking stuffers and holiday gifts. Enjoy warm beverages, meet psychics, and savour festive treats in this grand Christmas celebration.

Where: 630 Trinity Rd. S., Jerseyville, ON (Ancaster Fairgrounds)
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $5 admission (cash only at the door); free for children ten and under

Hamilton Santa Claus Parade

Kick off the holiday season at the iconic Hamilton Santa Claus Parade! Bring the whole family to enjoy a day of festive fun with a new parade route and additional programming at Lime Ridge Mall. Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable food item to support Mission Services.

Where: 999 Upper Wentworth St.
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free

John Muirhead Live at Mills Hardware

Experience an evening with indie-rock artist John Muirhead at Mills Hardware. Known for his big-hearted indie folk music and captivating live performances, Muirhead has built a global community of listeners.

Where: 95 King St. E. (Mills Hardware)
Time: 8 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $19.99

Biimadziwin/Wakya’ta’shatse Social

Join the community for a feast featuring information booths, live music and door prizes.

Where: 270 Sherman Ave. N. (Cotton Factory)
Time: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Sensory-Friendly Morning Tour

Experience the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology in a quieter, sensory-friendly setting. Visitors can explore at their own pace, with hands-on experiences, smaller groups, less noise, and a designated “Chill Out Zone.” To help attendees prepare, a social guide with photos and information will be emailed to them. Limited spaces are available, and registration is required.

Where: 900 Woodward Ave. (Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology National Historic Site)

Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Cost:

• Adults: $10.00
• Seniors/Youth: $8.50
• Children: $6.00
• Infants: Free
• Family: $27.50

Movies at Hamilton Public Library

• Movie: Frozen (2013) G
  Where: Binbrook Branch – 2641 Regional Road 56
  Time: 10 a.m.
• Movie: Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022) G
  Where: Barton Branch – 571 Barton Street East
  Time: 1 p.m.
• Movie: Tom and Jerry: The Movie (2021) G
  Where: Red Hill Branch – 695 Queenston Road
  Time: 2 p.m.
• Movie: Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) PG
  Where: Turner Park Branch – 352 Rymal Road East
  Time: 2 p.m.
• Movie: Inside Out 2 (2023) G
  Where: Terryberry Branch – 100 Mohawk Road West
  Time: 2 p.m.
• Movie: Doctor Strange (2017) PG
  Where: Stoney Creek Branch – 777 Highway 8
  Time: 2:30 p.m.

November 17

Annual Jingle & Mingle

The annual Jingle & Mingle market returns to Shawn & Ed Brewery! Enjoy a day of beer, holiday spirit and a great start to your holiday gift shopping.

Where: 65 Hatt St., Dundas, ON
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free admission

Christmas Town at Mountsberg (Nov. 14 to Dec. 23) 

Experience the magic of Christmas Town at Mountsberg Conservation Area, featuring a guided visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in their woodland hideaway.

Where: 2259 Milburough Line, Campbellville, ON (Mountsberg Conservation Area)
Dates: Tuesdays to Sundays, Nov. 14 to Dec. 23, 2024
Time: First wagon ride at 9:30 a.m. and last at 7 p.m.
Cost:

• Adults: $39 +HST
• Child/Senior: $35 +HST

—Cover photo via tourismhamilton.com