Feeling a touch of the winter blues this winter? Melt them away with some fun holiday activities that will get you off the couch and into the fun holiday spirit, even in cold. Here are the top 5 ways to get festive in Hamilton this season and make the most of the winter.
Check Out a Local Lighting Display
Head to Fusilier Drive on the Hamilton Mountain and you’ll find a mind-blowing Griswold style display that gets bigger every year. Last year, Phil Salvi had over 25,000 lights, a massive tree, live train track, Santa sleigh roof display, a mini ferris wheel with Santa’s friends, a life-sized nativity scene, and even a carousel display. It’s a magical sight to feast your eyes on. There are a number of other homes to visit as well. Just take a drive around Upper Ottawa, Garth Street, and the Barton area to find other mesmerizing displays to get you into the festive mood.
Drop by a Christmas Market
Explore Christmas markets this year with the McMaster Innovation Park, hosting two festive events on their grounds. The first, Christmas in the City Market, will take place on Saturday, November 23rd and will feature local artists and vendors, delicious food and even complimentary wrapping for the gifts. Then on December 7th, the park transforms into the Craftadian Christmas Market. You’ll find over 80 artisan vendors showcasing their best work and handmade goods as well as local food trucks to grab a bite. To enhance your Christmas shopping mood there will also be live music and an area for the kids to take photos with Santa.
Take in a Festive Performance
Create a new tradition this year with your family by attending a festive show. On November 28th the award-winning Canadian artist Johnny Reid will be playing all the traditional holiday classics at the First Ontario Concert Hall. The Nutcracker is also coming for one night on Saturday, December 7th. Don’t miss this traditional ballet performance that has been recreated with a special Canadian twist on the classic tale.
Visit Santa and His Elves
If shopping and Christmas-themed music hasn’t put you into the holiday spirit just yet, the Santa Claus Parade will. Santa and his elves come to town every year to showcase the sleigh along with colourful floats, talented bands and decorative characters for an afternoon of festive cheer. You can also find Santa at a number of the local malls taking photos and granting wishes across Hamilton.
Decorate Your Home from Top to Bottom
Set the mood with some festive themed décor for the home. Think wreaths on the doors, bows on chandeliers, glistening ornaments, and a colourful mantel and dining room table to get your home ready for the holidays. If your usual décor needs a facelift, there’s a selection of Christmas and Holiday stores around the city to help spruce up your home.
If you’re looking for a place to rent this holiday season, reach out to our team at CLV Group. We can help you get into your dream home right in time for the holidays.