Burlington on a Budget

Looking for some fun things to do this summer without breaking the bank?  There are plenty of great free and low-cost things to do here in Burlington! 

For those looking for entertainment in the great outdoors, look no further than Movies Under the Stars.  Simply bring your own chair or blanket, sit back and enjoy a fantastic movie.  Check out Diary of a Wimpy Kid Thursday, August 11th at Newport Park or, if you’re looking for a classic, be sure to stop by Lowville Park Thursday, August 18th to watch Hook.

For entertainment of a more musical sort, why not stop and take a listen to one of Burlington’s many free Concerts in the Park?  Sunday August 14th features the musical talents of two bands.  Take an afternoon stroll through Spencer Smith Park and enjoy pop standards and Latin Swing performed by Dixieland Plus from 2pm to 3:30pm at the Spencer Smith Gazebo.  Later on, have a great time listening to the Peter Banting Swingtet perform big band standards and Broadway melodies at the Central Park Bandshell from 7:30pm to 9pm.   

If you are feeling artistically inclined, the Burlington Art Centre is the place for you.  In addition to their substantial collection of Canadian ceramics, the BAC also has a number of rotating exhibits.  Their lovely courtyard currently features a number of large-scale, figurative clay sculptures by Sunmi Jung, a Korean-Canadian sculptor.  Cynicity, a collection of sculptural installations, and Handbuilt, an exhibit contrasting the works of two ceramic artists, are also not to be missed!  Not only is admission is free, there is a fabulous gift shop on site as well.  All in all, the BAC is certainly a great summer stop.    

For the cost of admission to Kelso Conservation Area you can enjoy a fabulous line-up of movies at their Family Movie Nights!  There are three films featured in August: Toy Story 3 on Friday, August 12th; Yogi Bear on Friday, August 19th and Rango on Friday, August 26th.  It’s a great way to have a fun day out with the family.  Spend the afternoon hiking, biking and swimming or rent a kayak, paddleboat or canoe, then settle down at dusk to enjoy the movie.  Kelso staff will also be selling snacks and drinks to complete the outdoor theatre experience. 

Burlington is also fortunate enough to be home to two great museums showcasing its history.  The Joseph Brant Museum is currently hosting “The Crazy Years: The Fashion Renaissance of the Roaring ‘20s”.  Be sure to stop by and check out the fabulous fashions!  Also visit Ireland House, a historic farmstead which has been restored to reflect the life and times of three generations of the Ireland family.  Both museums provide a glimpse into Burlington’s past at a great value.

Whatever your tastes, there is certain to be something for you!   

TC  Kat