Fun, fantastic (and mostly free) events in Burlington!

It’s hard to believe that we are only days away from the start of festival season here in Burlington, Ontario.   Over the next few months our city will be alive with lots of free festivals with many of them in the idyllic Spencer Smith Park on the waterfront.   Burlington is home to three of the Top 100 Ontario Festivals including the Sound of Music Festival, Canada Day Festival and Children’s Festival.  Our events cover everything from culture and heritage, the arts, culinary and so much more!  As a mom to two children under five years, I am always looking for great family events and hoping that I remember everything from sunscreen to snacks.  When visiting festivals with children (and without) remember to bring sunscreen, snacks, water and if your children are like mine, a change of clothes. Remember all events are subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the event website before heading out.

 

Are you an avid cyclist or a casual peddler?  Either way be sure to head to Spencer Smith Park on June 2^nd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the free Mountain Equipment Co-op Bikefest & Pastry Ride.  You don’t need your own bike to take part in MEC Bikefest – there will be lots of demo bikes available.  Even kids will find bikes to ride at the Kids’ Bike Station. However, for some of the clinics and all of the rides you will need to have your own bike and helmet to participate.  Some of the activities happening in the park include: bike decorating, kids races, face painting, bicycle polo, cycling vendors and more.  Plus great clinics at only $1.00/person.  There will be a family bike ride and the pastry bike ride.  Now if you are like me you are wondering is it a bike ride with actual pastry (that I can support) or a fancy bike term that I am not aware of?  Rejoice it’s an actual pastry ride.  Head out from the MEC store on Brant and cycle to Lowville (approx. 53km) on a guided and marked ride that will end with a picnic in the park complete with pastries and coffee!  There is a safety car travelling the route with the group in case of breakdowns or emergencies.  To register for this free ride call the store directly at 905-333-8559.  For more details on this event visit their website.

Everyone is welcome at the 13^th annual Halton Pride event on Saturday June 2^nd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Central Park.  This yearly event features all day entertainment, a BBQ with the Halton Police, children’s storytimes and activities and a vendor marketplace

On the evening of June 2^nd runners, walkers and kids can participate in the Moon in June Road Race.  This year they are featuring a new course that is a flat fast one loop certified 5k and 2 loop certified 10km of downtown Burlington. The route highlights the fabulous Burlington Waterfront at sunset (in the darkness of night). The finish line is lit by the search lights and you will want to stay for the party in Civic Square at City Hall.  For the kids there is the 2nd Annual Meredith's Kids 1km fun run plus the Kidsfest (on James St. between Brant St and John Street) is a great way to spend a family evening.  Kidsfest activities run from 6-8 p.m.and include everything from firetrucks to bouncy castles, characture artists, face painting, chalk drawing, mascots and tons of activities to keep everyone active and busy.  Pre-registration is required for the race ($). 

On Sunday June 3^rd embrace your inner child at Burlington’s Kite Festival.  From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. you can build, decorate, and fly a kite, enjoy free entertainment and visit the community displays.  This free event is held at the Brant Hills Community Centre. For more detailed information on this event read the blog by BurlEventGurl

The weekend of June 9^th and 10^th is a busy one.   Doors Open Ontario is recognized as a Top 100 event in Ontario and we are thrilled to participate in this great initiative. If you are interested in heritage, culture or architecture you will want to get out and visit one or more of the twenty-three sites on the 3^rd annual Doors Open Burlington.  This weekend long event gives residents and visitors to the City a remarkable opportunity to learn about places and spaces normally not open to the general public or for which an admission fee is usually charged. Highlights include guided heritage walking tours, the Fine Art and Craft Festival/Kaleidoscope of the Arts, mini performances by our student theatre and an antique/classic car display. Be sure to leave time for a visit to Aldershot where you can visit the Royal Botanical Gardens Centre and buy a famous foot-long hotdog at the historic Easterbrook's hotdog stand.

The Burlington Art Centre is not only a Doors Open Burlington participating site they are also hosting the Fine Art & Craft Festival & Kaleidoscope of the Arts over the weekend of June 9^th and 10^th.  More than 100 artists and artisans will be selling their remarkable handcrafted, Canadian, juried fine art and craft creations.  It doesn’t matter if you are a shopper or a browser you won’t be disappointed with all there is to see and do.  Be sure to visit their website for a sneak peak at some of the works that will be available during the event. This year, Kaleidoscope of the Arts will take place during the Festival with guilds at the BAC offering demonstrations, hands-on activities and a show and sale.  Admission to the Burlington Art Centre is always free and is a great way to spend a few hours or the day.

On Sunday June 10^th the City of Burlington will be hosting the first of two Car Free Sundays.  Head to Southeast Burlington (Appleby Line/New St. to Fairview) and spend the afternoon enjoying …the event runs from 2 pm until 7 pm and is free!

Carly Rae Jepson

You can’t mention Father’s Day weekend (June 14-17) without thinking about the Sound of Music Festival in Spencer Smith Park.  We are lucky to have Canada’s largest FREE music festival right in our own backyard.  It’s always a great weekend and this year is no exception.  The Thursday night kicks off with opening ceremonies and Hamilton natives the Arkells on the main stage.  Fans of Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi and Pearl Jam can hit the OLG Stage to keep the party rocking with three tribute bands.  Friday starts early with the first performance starting at 1:00 pm through to the final acts  Big Sugar (on the main stage) and Canadian folk singer-songwriter Basia Bulat on the Cogeco Stage. Saturday young and old anticipate the Sound of Music Parade working its way through the streets of downtown starting at 11 a.m. featuring as always Burlington's own Teen Tour Band and Junior Redcoats.  Post parade head to the park where international recording superstar Carly Rae Jepson performs on the main stage at 3:45pm. If you are not part of the teen/tween crowd head over to the OLG stage and enjoy Canadian musical legends Spirit of the West (I have to admit I have a soft spot for this band) performing hits spanning their 25 year career. Saturday night is headlined by Juno award winning Wintersleep on the main stage and pop/rock sweetheart Sarah Slean on the Cogeco stage.  Both Saturday and Sunday afternoon kids (and their parents) will want to visit the Family Zone for fun-filled activities and entertainment.  Sunday wraps up the festival with a bang!  Peformances start at 1:00pm and then amp up as the afternoon progresses with Canadian alt rockers Treble Charger and Canadian indie rockers Mother Mother hitting the main stage.  On the OLG stage hometown favourites Saint Alvia and YouTube sensation Walk Off The Earth perform.  I wonder how many of the 35 million people that have watched the Walk Off The Earth video will make it to the park?  I wish we could post all of the amazing acts appearing over the duration of the festival but we just don’t have room.  For a complete schedule visit the Sound of Music website.  Remember to give yourself plenty of time to visit the festival.  In addition to all the great musical acts there is a carnival, food, merchandise and craft marketplace.  Festival hours are: Thursday June 14 - 6pm to 11pm Park only; Friday June 15 -  1 pm to 11pm Park and Downtown (Carnival begins at 4pm); Saturday June 16 - Noon to 11pm Park and Downtown plus Parade 11am to 1pm with prelude at 10am; Sunday June 17 Noon to 7pm Park and Downtown. Voted one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario for the 12th year in a row, mark your calendar and be sure to visit Burlington for this event.  We should also mention all the great green initiatives of this festival including waste diversion, water re-fill stations and shuttle services. If you are planning on staying overnight we recommend booking early as hotels tend to fill up quickly.  For more information on accommodations visit our where to stay page.

From June 15^th -17^th Burlington Downtown in conjunction with the Sound of Music presents Downtown Streetfest.  Starting Friday night and running through to Sunday afternoon the downtown will come alive with four on-street performance pods, a beach party on John Street, sidewalk sales and lots of great patios to stop and enjoy a beverage and bite to eat while enjoying all the action.  For a complete listing of activities and entertainment schedule visit their website.

Wednesday and Sunday Evenings  from June 17-August 22 the City of Burlington presents “Concerts in the Park”.  Free concerts are held at 7:30 p.m. (with some additional 2:00 pm dates) and feature various musical artists.  For a complete listing of performers and locations, visit the website.

Celebrate our Nations birthday on July 1at Spencer Smith Park with the City of Burlington’s Canada Day Festival from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m..  The morning kicks off with the Canada Day 5k walk/run  and free yoga in the park .  Be part of citizenship court welcoming new Canadians followed by Queen’s medal presentations.  At 1:00 p.m. the opening ceremonies signal the start of a day of entertainment on the Canada and Waterfront stages.  You can also enjoy children's activities throughout the day, the Aldershot Lion's Club Beer and Wine Garden, Water Ski Shows, plus the Scholars in Collars dog training show.  Cap the night off with a performance by the always entertaining and sometimes outrageous Cape Breton fiddling icon Ashley MacIsaac and a fireworks display presented by Lockwood Chrysler Fiat.  For a complete schedule of events visit the website.

On July 1^st right across the street from Spencer Smith Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. you can enjoy the Strawberry Social by the Lake at the Joseph Brant Museum.  Head over to sample everyone's favourite treat - fresh strawberries and delicious vanilla ice cream.  Other treats are in store for visitors including perusing the trifles & treasures market, participating in games, festive crafts, activities, museum tours and so much more. Plus there will be special performances and live entertainment all day long.  A great addition to your Canada Day plans and it’s all FREE!

Starting July 12^th, the City of Burlington hosts “Movies Under the Stars” Thursdays at 9 p.m.  Come with your blanket and chairs to enjoy a free movie on a giant outdoor screen at a neighbourhood park.  For a complete list of movies and locations visit their website.

Yee-haw!  Put on your cowboy boots and Stetson and boot scoot boogie down to Spencer Smith Park for the 2^nd annual Burlington Country & Blues BBQ from July 13th-15^th.  This newcomer to the festival scene is sure to please with a combinations of country and blues performances, the “Longest Line on the Boardwalk” country line dance, hillbilly games, a marketplace and of course succulent BBQ.  Friday kicks off with a whole lotta blues including a Steve Ray Tribute, Canadian blues group the Lincolns and The Das Blooze Brothers Tribute. Saturday “Get your drink on” with the Steel Country Band as they combine old and new country with a splash of Southern rock.  Join in the celebration to Gordie Tapp (who turns 90 this year – can you believe it?) then be prepared for a real treat. With Roy Clark having to cancel all his performances due to a back operation and not being able to perform for at least 3-4 months, get ready for his replacement Steel Magnolia to hit the stage and perform for the first time in Canada. This new country group won CMT's Can You Duet? and has not looked back since.  You do not want to miss this performance!  Sunday will definitely have a nostalgic feel with several tribute bands performing including Jay Zanier’s Elvis Tribute. The day wraps up with an all stars blues project featuring a great line up of artists including Nashville native Johnny Keys. The festival runs Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. For a complete schedule and artist listing, visit their website.

On Sunday July 15 the City of Burlington will be hosting the second of two Car Free Sunday events.  This free event will be held in Downtown Burlington from 2 pm to 7pm and is a great accompaniment to the festival down at Spencer Smith park that weekend.

For those that enjoy the best that Burlington has to offer in dining will want to make plans to attend these three great culinary events.  On July 8^th Downtown Dining ($) gives you the opportunity to enjoy a walking tour of 5 restaurants in downtown Burlington. The proceeds from this year’s Downtown Dining will be donated to the Young Artists Fund, through the Halton Learning Foundation.  Advance tickets are required and tours sell out quickly so be sure to get yours early.  From July 22-August 6 enjoy a new culinary experience with a Taste of Burlington ($).  Join Burlington’s finest restaurants for this prix fixe dining event, offering a three course menu (appetizer, entrée, dessert) at a great value.  For a listing of menus and restaurants visit the website (summer updates coming June 1).  The final culinary event of the season is Lakeside a la Carte ($) on August 12 at Spencer Smith Park. This event brings together the area's superb chefs and vintners with their very best tastes to support the Rotary Club of Burlington. Guests stroll from tent to tent, sampling wines and tasting delicious dishes...throw in a silent auction, the chance to win Air Canada or Via Rail tickets, and you have the makings of Burlington's Ultimate Summer Party. Advance tickets required, see the website for participating vendors and ticket information.

On August 6^th plan to visit LaSalle Park for the Joseph (John) Brant Day Festival.  This year to tie into the commemoration of the War of 1812 and Burlington’s role in this the Museums of Burlington will be celebrating John Brant and the important role he played in this war.  The day will include various re-enactments, a military skirmish, encampments and other historically interpreted activities.  There will also be the annual favourites including, a summer BBQ, splash park for kids, fair-style games, crafts and hands-on activities, a treasure hunt adventure, and so much more.  For a more information on this event please visit their website.

The weekend of August 18 & 19 pack up the kids and head to the waterfront as Burlington holds its 21^st annual free Children’s Day Festival Weekend.  On Saturday, the Sandcastle competition is held at beautiful Burlington beach.  Try your hand at creating a masterpiece in the sand or watch the master sculptors at work creating amazing pieces.   But it’s not all about sandcastles, you can also enjoy live music, entertainment, activities, games, food and marketplace on while catching some sun on Burlington beach.  On Sunday, embrace your inner Tarzan or Jane and head to Spencer Smith Park for some jungle fun!  The children’s festival runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and has so much to do including themed entertainment, playzones, character meet & greets, shows, a marketplace and more. In case you’ve never attended the festival before you should know that there is a parade along the promenade with all the children attending the festival.  This year be sure to come as your favourite jungle character and join in the promenade parade at 12:30 p.m.  I bring my girls to this every year and they always have a great time.  For a complete listing of events and times visit the website. If you are planning an overnight visit be sure to check out Burlington Hotel Deals.

Grab some napkins and a bib and head on down to Spencer Smith Park for Canada’s Largest Ribfest from August 31-September 3.  This ribfest organized by the Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore brings together 18 ribbers and draws over 100,000 hungry visitors to the park to taste the mouth-watering fare.  Once your tummy is full you can enjoy a fantastic line up of live bands, daily kids’ activities, and a crafters’ Artisan Fair.  This is a festival with great green initiatives that has an 88% waste diversion rate.  For more information on ribbers, entertainment and vendors visit their website.

Tourism Burlington is proud to support our events and festivals and you will find us on site at many of the events to assist with Burlington information inquiries.  Of course, you can always visit us at our information centre located at 414 Locust St. just off the Lakeshore.  We are open daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to mid-June and then 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. to Labour day. 

Have a wonderful summer exploring all that Burlington has to offer including these fabulous festivals!

Oh the Drama and more!

If all the world is a stage, Burlington is home to many of its players, performers and portrayers.

Burlington is now home to The Burlington Performing Arts Centre which in addition to being an amazing entertainment venue is an architectural and urban design landmark built to LEED principles.  The 2011-2012 season is going to be a great one with a diverse range of performances that ensures there is something for everyone.  For those that can’t wait, The Centre will be opening its doors throughout October for the general public to tour the Main Theatre, Community Studio Theatre as well as, the Family Lobby.  Dates and times can be found on the website. 

Royal Wood. Photo courtesy of BPAC

The season will launch on Saturday October 1st with an exclusive performance by Royal Wood as part of his Sneak Peak tour, performing new songs, old favourites and interesting covers.  The launch also includes a multi-media presentation of the inaugural season line-up.  Next up is Stuart McLean & The Vinyl Café on October 30th his first show has sold out and a second performance has been added.  Join Stuart for an afternoon of humor, essays and stories plus featured musical guests, Burlington’s own Melissa McClelland and Luke Doucet. 

Adrianne Pieczonka. Photo courtesy of BPAC

For those that are a fan of extraordinary vocalists you won’t want to miss seeing Adrianne Pieczonka on November 10th.  This Burlington native and Juno award winner features an intimate evening of music from Broadway to Bach.  November 25th Lunch at Allen’s a musical revue with Murray McLaughlin, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan and Ian Thomas is not to be missed. 

Sunday November 27th is Family Day at the Centre. In the Main Theatre Quebec dance company Sursaut presents At Nightfall, the story of a shoemaker that discovers what joys exist outside his workshop. In the Community Studio Theatre families will be treated to a performance of Simple Gifts by Cashore Marionettes.   In addition to the productions featured, families will enjoy lobby entertainment plus the opportunity to participate in “hands on” arts experiences with professionals from the Burlington Art Centre.  

Dance lovers will not want to miss In Paradisum, by Canada’s Coleman, Lemieux & Compagnie on November 29th. In Paradisum is described as, “…quintessential Kudelka. It has the natural flexibility and range of modern dance supported by the precision of classical dance.” This presentation features three brilliant modern dance performances.

Russell deCarle. Photo courtesy of BPAC

The Community Studio Theatre will also host many fabulous performances including: I, Claudia, and An Acoustic Evening: Russell deCarle with Steve Briggs and Denis Keldie

Be sure to also support our local talent that will be shining at The Centre including, Hamilton native Jacob Moon; The Burlington Teen Tour Band; The Burlington Concert Band; The Canadian Male Orpheus Choir and the Top Hat Marching Orchestra.

On December 1st you will want to attend “Celebration!” A Blue Jeans Gala featuring a diverse group of performers with one thing in common - they are all "Burlingtonians".  Some of the featured performers include: The Spoons, Gordie Tapp, Myles Erlick, Silverstein and more!

Saturday December 3rd is a Red Carpet Evening with Sarah McLachlan.  The official opening of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of a “red carpet” experience.  Also coming in December just in time for the holidays are The Nutcracker by the State Ballet Theatre of Russia, a Leahy Family Christmas and Irish Rovers Christmas.  For the complete 2011-2012 season please visit the website and stay tuned for an upcoming blog on the official opening of The Centre.

Community Theatre is alive and well in Burlington, you can look forward to some great productions from both Theatre Burlington and Drury Lane Theatre.

Theatre Burlington is a local community theatre founded in 1952.  Throughout the years this group of actors has brought many performances to the stage and this year is no exception.

 “You Can’t Dance to Mozart” will be running Thursday to Saturday until October 1st.  This comedy features Dan Scott as Barney a pensioner who partners with Kate (played by Janine Heaven) a retired schoolteacher to bring down their landlord who has raised the rent. 

Next up is the Annual Children’s Show featuring “Rumplestiltskin” The classic story come to life.  This Brothers Grimm fairy tale tells the story of a pretty daughter of a poor miller who is forced to turn straw into gold by the King after her father deceives him with lies of her talents.  A happy ending ensues and a lesson is learned by all.
Performances are held at Drama Centre - Central Park, 2311 New Street .  For more dates, show times and tickets for any of Theatre Burlington performances please visit their website.

Drury Lane has been one of Burlington’s premier musical theatre groups since 1974.  This year they will be presenting Nunsense II from October 28th to November 26th.  This musical comedy picks up with the Little Sisters of Hoboken strutting their stuff on stage with the rumor of a talent scout in the audience and with added audience participation this is one show you will be sure to enjoy.

Drury Lane Theatre is located at 2269 New Street.  For more dates, show times and tickets for any of Drury Lane’s performances please visit their website.

If you are a fan of dinner theatre, be sure to check out the Mohawk Dinner Theatre at Mohawk Raceway.  All show include lunch/dinner and if you feel lucky, stay for the horseracing or visit the casino.

First up at Mohawk Dinner Theatre is Steel Magnolias running September 16 - October 22.  This dramedy traces a group of gossiping southern ladies through the trials and triumphs of their lives.  Many will remember the film version starring a young Julia Roberts and Sally Field.  This touching story is not to be missed.

Next on the playbill is Sinners.  This black comedy by Canadian playwright Norm Foster weaves an intricate web of deceit hilariously exposed after a store owners affair with a local minister’s wife is found out. 

For more dates, show times and tickets for any Mohawk Dinner Theatre performances please visit their website.

Mark your calendars and order your tickets now to take in the best in dance, music and theatre that Burlington has to offer.

Field Research

Have you ever come into our Visitor Information Centre and asked yourself how our Travel Counsellors have such an extensive knowledge of the Tourist Destinations throughout the province?  There is a simple answer: field research. Kat recently went on an excursion to the lovely city of Kingston in order to scope out what the so-called “limestone city” has to offer. The name did not disappoint, as there certainly was a lot of limestone.

Kat was welcomed the first night with perhaps the largest potluck she has ever attended.  As her family equates love with food, she instantly felt at home.  The next day, Kat became even more familiarized with the city after doing a walking tour of Queen’s University and an excellent trolley tour of historical sites. She would definitely recommend taking the Wolfe Island Ferry if you have a chance. It is a very nice ferry (and the song will be stuck in your head for weeks).

For those of you who worry that the awesomeness of Kingston may have caused her to change her alliances, fear not. She is one hundred percent a Burlingtonian and in fact took the opportunity to promote a few of Burlington’s sites and events while she was there. Kat can confidently say that Queen’s University students are now aware of the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Sound of Music Festival and Ribfest, just to name a few things. If you are looking to travel up to Kingston though (or anywhere else for that matter), be sure to stop by our Visitor Information Centre in downtown Burlington, we’ll be happy to help you out!

The Sound of Music Festival

The Sound of AWESOME Festival, More Like.

A violinist in a cowboy hat. Onion Blooms. Tiger-faced babies. A breathtaking view complete with sailboats, waterfowl and buskers that would take away the breath of even the most cynically cynical cynisist. One might ask, “What do these seemingly unconnected phrases have in common, other than being sentence fragments that sound like the ramblings of an incoherent drunkard?” The answer, my esteemed colleagues in Burlingtonian-ness, can be summed up in 3 words. Nay, 3 letters. S.O.M.

Nowhere else is there an event that allows you such visual, auditory and taste-related stimulation. That’s just science.  My own personal 2011 experience started with Bedouin Soundclash on Thursday night and LET ME TELL YOU, they were amazing. To be fair, I am a tad biased as I attend Queen’s University (their Alma Matter), and so consider it to be my duty to pledge my allegiance to the band. Of course, their outspoken support for the recently annihilated (yes, I know that’s harsh but it’s also completely accurate) Vancouver Canucks voiced on stage in the middle of the set was NOT appreciated by the hockey fans in the crowd (myself included!), but their performance was so impressive that it more than made up for their Vancouverness. 

Friday night was similarly joy-evoking: I had a couple of buds in from out of town to see Emerson Drive, who were so wonderful that a regular word is merely does not suffice, and so I am forced to make one up: fabulisciosome. Yes. The band was fabulisciosome. Also, not too hard on the eyes. In fact, my Oakville buddy who was visiting said that the show was the best concert she’d ever seen. Pretty high praise, fellas! Following the set we met the band and, after facing the harsh realization that they all had wedding rings on, recovered our zeal and headed through the park for a walk around the rides, mourning the fact that as students we’re far too poor to avoid even a spinny strawberry ride. Good times.

Saturday night was the capper, as I attended a balcony party downtown and got to see the action from a bird’s eye view. While I was very disappointed that a fight did not break out in front of the beer store when it closed at 10 (and believe me,the other spectators and I expected it!), I suppose it does attest to the inspirationally peaceful downtown atmosphere (wink wink plug plug). However, my disappointment was subdued when—suddenly—the sweet lusciousness of Otis Redding’s ‘Sittin on the Dock of the Bay’ wafted (as much as sound can ‘waft’) into my ears. Of course, it wasn’t the real Otis, but the cover band truly did the man proud.  The night was full of mooching about the vendors, getting together with old friends and new, and seriously appreciating the street festivities. All in all an amazing weekend. Great music, vendors and atmosphere: a complete success!

We walked along the waterfront, thinking “what could possibly make this weekend of music, rides, sunglass shopping and Lugano’s pizza any better?”.  And then we stumbled upon the answer.  Cupcakes.  In a truck.  Now I know what you’re thinking.  Cupcakes can’t drive.  But that’s not important.  What you need to know is that the cookies and cream cupcake I had was absolutely fantastic and a perfect end to the night.  Be sure to check out the Cupcake Diner while you’re at the festival!

Here at Tourism Burlington, the majority of us Summer Travel Counselors go to McMaster University. I, however, representing the minority, attend Queen’s University. So on Thursday night I decided it would be excellent to support the talented band Bedouin Soundclash who forged their friendship at Queen’s University around a decade ago. They made Queen’s proud as lead singer, Jay Malinowski, belted out hit songs such as “Walls Fall Down” and “When the Night Feels my Song”. The pressing question many of you may be asking is “is Jay as good looking in person as he is on TV?” The answer: even better looking in person (yes, it is possible).

Now, although the tourism staff enjoyed the festival, we also actually did some work there.  You know - that stuff we get paid to do. Not that we don’t enjoy working at tourism, it’s a pretty sweet gig actually. And I didn’t get paid to say that! Unless you count the fact that I’m blogging during my work day. So technically, I did get paid to say that, but I would also have been paid had I said something else.

Anyhoo, we travel counsellors donned our official Sound of Music shirts and settled into our lakeside information tent. It was a gorgeous weekend, and we were lucky enough to be helping very happy people, while being treated to free music all day.  Most common occurrence: people asking for a schedule/map. Least common occurrence: dog walking on its two hind legs. No joke. Two thumbs up for working at Sound of Music.

Also, in response to Ellen’s University of Queens thing, I would just like to point out that our SOM shirts were not only maroon (McMaster colours WHAT), but were also adorned with the Mohawk college logo, an institution which has several joint programs with Mac.  WHAT YOU GONNA DO?

I’m sure you are wondering what sort of shenanigans some of the Tourism girls got up to this Saturday during the Sound of Music Festival!

… no? Well now that you know shenanigans were had maybe I have piqued your interest.

During the day, we spent most of our time down at the Waterfront in front of Discovery Landing and boy was it hot out! That didn’t stop those determined music lovers and shoppers though because Spencer Smith Park was packed! Everyone seemed to be having a great time, especially the children at the splash pad.

You might be surprised that while the Sound of Music is an event most Burlingtonians wait all year for, there are people from everywhere coming to experience this amazing event! We even met a couple from Germany!

After we finished work we decided to FINALLY go and visit the festival we have been talking about! But we just finished work so obviously dinner was the first priority.

Since we were downtown already we decided to go to arguably the BEST pizza place in Burlington, Lugano’s (Kat seems to think that Mount Royal Pizza at the north end of Burlington is the best). We ordered two medium pizzas and only had to pay 18 dollars! Delicious and price savvy. The best combo.

After the pizza and a little wandering around the shops (we will get back to those later), we took our place in the crowd to see Hollerado. Admittedly, Natalie and I were quite tired so we took our place among the “Sitters” in the park while the more energetic Kat took her place with the “Standers” by the stage. The band was amazing and so much fun to watch! They played one of my favorite songs, Juliette, and even started crowd-surfing! After the show we were even able to go behind the stage and meet them. One of our friends, Dave, was able to get his CD signed by them. He was very excited about that.

Now that we had no place in a crowd to save we were able to walk through all of the vendors and see what they had to offer. First off we bought some coffee (for the slowly fading Amy who survives only because of coffee) from the Tim Horton’s booth and some cotton candy, clearly a staple for an event such as this. There were so many shops for us to look through ranging all the way from electronics to didgeridoos.

Sadly the weekend had to end. We all had to leave but there is always next year!

Also, in response to my Queensian colleague Ellen,

Oilthigh na Banrighinn a' Bhanrighinn gu bràth!

I feel ya, sister.

Festival Season kicks off!

Burlington is home to many festivals and events throughout the year but during the summer months, we have an exciting festival/event happening almost every weekend! Throughout the summer, you can find our friendly Summer Travel Counsellors present, ready and eager at these events to help you enjoy the most out of your experience while you discover all that beautiful Burlington has to offer! This past weekend, 3 events called Burlington home; the Fine Arts and Craft Festival, Doors Open and the Relay for Life. We had some of our counsellors at each one of these events.

Saturday and Sunday welcomed hundreds of artisans from throughout Halton Region, Ontario and Canada to the Burlington Art Centre for the Fine Art and Craft Festival. With over 100 artisans in attendance, visitors were able to explore the BAC’s expansive art gallery while shopping for wearable art, hand-crafted pottery, hand-carved sculptures and enjoy some food with free admission. Stephanie, our Administrative Assistant, was a fan of all the vendors selling wearable art and jewellery. She customized her own charm necklace at Maris Fine Jewellery’s booth with 2 sterling silver charms and 2 dyed fresh water pearls strung onto a sterling silver chain. She also picked up a pair of their sterling silver corkscrew earrings. She also purchased a glass blown hibiscus flower from La Glasserie with gold plated trimming for decoration. Sally, our Visitor Services Co-ordinator, purchased a one-of-a-kind, unique gift for a friend. Kul Werks Candle Art was selling wax and glass votive holders with wax that that doesn’t burn! Amy and Natalie, 2 of our Summer Travel Counsellors were delighted by the scents surrounded by our table provided by Victorian Essence Tea. They tasted many different variations of tea available for purchase and bought such flavours as Mint-Gunpowder, Gingered Lime which was reminiscent of old English Wine Gums and Turkish-Apple-Lemon. Our office at 414 Locust St., has smelt delightful ever since!

During the same weekend, Burlington celebrated the 2nd annual Doors Open, where landmarks buildings, heritage and cultural gems opened their doors for FREE! It was a chance to give residents and visitors alike the chance to explore the city’s rich history with over 18 sites opening their doors to the public and through guided walking tours provided by Heritage Burlington. Our offices in downtown Burlington was Doors Open Headquarters and the meeting point for these guided tours which were extremely popular. Some of the other popular spots this year included a Brant Inn/Historical Society Q & A, the Gingerbread House Gardens, St. Luke’s Church, the Halton Mosque, Union Burying Grounds, the Joseph Brant Museum and the Royal Canadian Legion Wartime Museum.

Another event was Burlington’s 10th Relay for Life! For those of you who are unaware of this fantastic event, here’s how it works. In the months leading up to the event, teams collect money to benefit the Canadian Cancer Society. Relay for Life itself is a 12-hour event in which participants walk throughout the night to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those who have passed away and help work towards finding a cure for cancer. It is an emotional, powerful and fun experience that brings together family, friends and complete strangers in the struggle against cancer.

This year’s Relay was the fifth one I have personally attended and it was definitely one of my favourites. Although my friends and I certainly are not campers, we managed to put up our tent (and in only forty-five minutes too!). We were well-prepared, having stocked up on snacks and caffeine products in order to ensure we’d be able to stay awake for the night. It was great to see so many people participating, including a number of old friends. As always, I was particularly moved by the Survivor’s Lap, during which cancer survivors start the event by walking the first lap of the track.  It was truly an inspirational and moving sight. Participants walk the track during Burlington’s 10th Relay for Life.  The track was lined by luminaries, lit in memory of those who have passed away following their battle with cancer.

This upcoming weekend is the popular Sound of Music Festival. Visitors and residents are able to enjoy 4 free fabulous days of music with acts this year including Bedouin Soundclash, Emerson Drive, Stereos, Tokyo Police Club, Jimmy Rankin, Devo, Men without Hats and The Nylons. New this year to the festival is a Saturday Beach Party on John St., and outdoor musical performances on the front steps of the new Burlington Performing Arts Centre. As always, visitors and residents are able to enjoy Downtown Streetfest and the Grande Festival Parade with Burlington’s own Teen Tour Band. With over 200,000 attendees, festival organizers offer free shuttle services to and from the festival, call our Visitor Information Centre, 1.877.499.9989 for times and locations.

Sound of Music Announces its Festival Line-up

Today various media, sponsors and partners were invited to the media launch for the Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival and despite the rain (again!) we were all in a summertime mood.  The launch took place at the DeGroote School – Ron Joyce Centre in their beautiful lobby and first floor auditorium. If the weather had cooperated we could have spilled outside to the patio, but I guess they are saving the sunshine for the festival!

We got a chance to mingle with various VIP’s including past President of the Festival and Tourism Ambassador Award winner Judi Scetta, newly reelected M.P. Mike Wallace, the Mayor and Councillors Meed-Ward, Sharman and Dennison before the formalities began.

The President of the Sound of Music Gerry Murphy welcomed everyone to the 32^nd year of the festival and thanked the hundreds of volunteers. After a few brief comments about how proud they are of the festival and the contribution it makes to the city from Mayor Goldring and Mike Wallace, the eagerly anticipated line-up was announced by Dave Miller the Festival Executive Director.

The Sound of Music is one of the top 100 festivals in Ontario and features a unique blend of new and emerging artists, Canadian icons and favourites from the past. Dave promised that this year’s lineup will rock the park; with over 90 Musical Acts, a Grande Festival Parade with more than 20 marching bands, Downtown Streetfest, Family Zone, Carnival and much more.

Thursday June 16

On the ArcelorMittal Dofasco stage, Bedouin Soundclash, should put on a high energy show (www.bedouinsoundclash.com), opening for Bedouin Soundclash, is Canadian Music Weeks “best band” Yukon Blonde (www.myspace.com/yukonblondeband). Check out the rock ‘n’ roll, Celtic and bluegrass sounds of The Stanfields, (www.thestanfields.ca) and the rock and roll tunes of The Respectables (http://www.myspace.com/therespectablesmusic), both featured on the OLG stage.

Friday June 17

Friday evening boasts headliner names such as Emerson Drive www.emersondrive.com), The Reason (www.thereasonmusic.com/) and Toronto’s own Crash Karma www.crashkarma.com).  Appearing on the Cogeco Stage a feast for your ears, Micheal Kaeshammer (www.kaeshammer.com).

Saturday June 18

Saturday afternoon, on the ArcelorMittal Dofasco stage check out Stereos (www.wearestereos.com) their thrilling live show will bring a pop-rock mentality and newly explored electro-club sound to the Festival, followed in the evening by Hollerado (www.hollerado.com) and Tokyo Police Club (tokyopoliceclub.com). Over on the OLG stage, is the country and psychedelic blend of The Sadies (www.thesadies.net). Be sure to stay for the evening and see Jimmy Rankin (http://jimmyrankin.com/) and later the Barra McNeils (www.barramacneils.com), a band widely regarded as one of the greatest

live concert acts in the Celtic world.

Throughout the weekend music steeped in African tradition, Mighty Popo (www.mightypopo.ca), Sultans of String (www.sultansofstring.com) and Juno award nominated Luke Doucet & the White Falcon (www.lukedoucet.com) will be performing on the Cogeco Stage, located on Brant Street at Civic Square where you get a different feel to the Festival, while enjoying a café style setup.

Family Zone has a fun filled weekend lined up with lots of fabulous children’s acts to keep the family busy all weekend long.  We will outline these acts closer to the event for you.

Sunday June 19

Celebrate Fathers Day at the festival and sing along with a band that spans generations, Devo (www.clubdevo.com), as well as Chic Gamine (www.chicgamine.com), Le Vent du Nord (www.leventdunord.com), The Salads (www.thesalads.com) and The Creepshow

(www.thecreepshow.org). Is it safe to dance? with Men Without Hats

www.danceifyouwant.com/ ).  We danced to Whip It a 1980 #1 hit by Devo at our wedding reception, boy do I feel old!

And just to tease us a little we were told to stay tuned for the release of “withheld” headlining artists, for more Festival excitement. 

Our Team Burlington partner Burlington Downtown together with our soon to be next door neighbours the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) are teaming up to put on Downtown Streetfest on Saturday and Sunday.  With various performances throughout the day and evening plus sidewalk sales, and outdoor patios spilling into the street you may not even make it down to the park!  Both Brian Dean from Downtown and Graham Frampton from BPAC were lucky winners of door prizes at the launch! 

Make sure you mark your calendar for "Four Fabulous Days of Free Music and Fun” along our beautiful picturesque waterfront park and throughout downtown Burlington. Through the generosity and support of sponsors and the dedication of over 600 volunteers, the Festival continues to be a free event for music lovers of all ages, welcoming close to 200,000 visitors annually.

Tourism Burlington is pleased to be working with the festival to attract visitors to our city and welcome them once they are here.  For more details visit the newly redesigned website soundofmusic.ca or call the Festival Hotline 905-333-6364.