West Avenue Maple Taps
2026-04-11 14:00 - 18:00 (America/Toronto) | West Avenue Cider House, 84 Concession 8 East, Hamilton, Ontario, L8B 1N7, Canada
Our 7th Annual Maple Taps Festival hits April 11, 12–6 PM, and don’t know about you but we’re certainly ready to trade frostbite for sunshine, good tunes, and maple everything.
Grab a glass of hyper seasonal Happier Hour or Smoke Show Cider snack your way through maple-inspired eats, and let’s make spring official. Winter’s done — Goodbye!
No Entry Fee * Free Campfires * Kid and Dog Friendly

Heritage Workshop: Knitting Level 1
2026-04-12 13:00 - 14:00 | Ireland House Museum, 2168 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario, L7P5A8, Canada
Interested in learning how to knit? Join our Heritage Workshop: Knitting – Level 1 to learn the basics! This workshop will cover casting on, knit stitch, and casting off as you knit up a dishcloth. Registration includes all materials and a virtual follow-up session to address any questions. A tour of Ireland House is included, and will happen prior to the workshop from 1:00 – 2:00 pm.

Analog Bag Demo and Make a Bag Charm
2026-04-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Michaels stores – call for details, Ontario, Canada
Stop by your local Michaels to learn all about Analog bags, we will tell you what they are, and how to make your very own! Additionally, we will have a free bag charm craft you can use to decorate your own Analog bag.

Free Family Open Studio at the AGB
2026-04-12 13:00 - 16:00 | Art Gallery of Burlington, 1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, L7S 1A9, Canada
Celebrate heritage, imagination and the power of storytelling through art this spring! This season of free family-friendly programming is inspired by artist Roda Medhat’s immersive sculptural environment. Our knowledgeable artist-instructors will be present to offer guidance and support to develop new ideas, or you are welcome to explore independently and create in your own unique way.

Mandarin Storytime at MPL
2026-04-12 14:00 - 14:30 | MPL Main branch, 1010 Main St E, Milton, ON, Canada
For children 4 – 10 years of age, accompanied by a parent or caregiver. This program is suitable for Mandarin speakers.
Today’s storytime facilitated by the Milton Chinese Canadian Association, features “Press Here” by Herve Tullet. Starting with a single yellow dot, this fun interactive book invites children to tap, press, and turn each page and watch the story magically unfold and the book itself start to change! Kids will be delighted by the fun and surprises while interacting with the story.

Bark for Books at HPL
2026-04-13, 2026-04-14, 2026-04-16 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading.

Read aloud to a furry friend to help build interest, confidence and a love for reading. Trained pet therapy dogs and adult volunteers encourage readers to take part in literacy activities. Presented by Therapy Tails Ontario.
Thursday, April 09: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, April 13: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, April 13: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Tuesday, April 14: 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Barton Branch
Thursday, April 16: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, April 20: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, April 23: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Saturday, April 25: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Waterdown Branch

Monday, April 27: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, April 27: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, April 30: 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Valley Park Branch
Saturday, May 02: 10:00am – 11:00am
Binbrook Branch

Monday, May 04: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, May 07: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, May 11: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, May 11: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Tuesday, May 12: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Barton Branch

Thursday, May 14: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Thursday, May 21: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Saturday, May 23: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Waterdown Branch

Monday, May 25: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, May 25: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, May 28: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, June 01: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, June 04: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, June 08: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, June 08: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Tuesday, June 09: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Barton Branch

Thursday, June 11: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Saturday, June 13: 10:00am – 11:00am
Binbrook Branch

Monday, June 15: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, June 18: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, June 22: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Kenilworth Branch

Monday, June 22: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Thursday, June 25: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Valley Park Branch

Monday, June 29: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Turner Park Branch

Monday Makers
2026-04-13 16:30 - 18:30 | Oakville Galleries, 1306 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 1L6, Canada
You’ve joined us for Saturday Art Smarts; now welcome to Monday Makers, after-school hands-on workshops at Oakville Galleries! Monday Makers’ curriculum is unique from Saturday Art Smarts, so if you enjoyed that, you can join both! Join our experienced, returning art instructor, Meghan, as she guides your child(ren) through a series of exciting creative projects. Register online.

Each session is designed to introduce children to new techniques and materials, encouraging them to explore new ways of creating art. Over the course of the 2-hour workshop, participants will complete their very own finished works of art.

Date and Time:
Mondays, April 6–27, 2026
4:30PM–6:30PM

Ages:
6–10

Week 1: April 6 | Mirror Painting
Week 2: April 13 | Comic Strip
Week 3: April 20 | Felt Stuffies
Week 4: April 27 | Mono Printing Plants

Sensory-Friendly Open House at Endless Abilities
2026-04-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Endless Abilities Burlington, 1810 Ironstone Dr #2,, Burlington, Ontario, L7L 5V3, Canada
Families are invited to attend the Endless Abilities Burlington Open House on April 13 from 5–7 PM. This family-friendly event offers an opportunity to explore the clinic, meet the team, and learn more about therapy services available for children in the community.
Children can enjoy sensory games, face painting, and interactive activities, while parents can learn more about the programs offered at Endless Abilities. The clinic is an Ontario Autism Program (OAP) provider offering services such as 1:1 ABA therapy, speech therapy, social skills groups, and life skills programs designed to support children’s communication, independence, and development.
The first 20 guests will receive a free sensory gift bag courtesy of Endless Abilities.
This open house is a great opportunity for families to connect with the team at Endless Abilities and explore supportive services in a welcoming environment

RSVP Today!

Toddler Days at Joseph Brant Museum
2026-04-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Joseph Brant Museum, 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, L7S1C5, Canada
Toddler Days is a hands-on, interactive, parented program designed for children ages 2 – 4 years old. The program takes place at Joseph Brant Museum on Wednesday mornings. Children are $12.00 each, accompanying adults are complimentary. Pre-registration is required, as capacity is limited.

Each week features a different theme, see below for specific dates and to register. Choose one week or many!

FALL SEMESTER 2025
September 10– Summer Treats
September 17 – Camping
September 24 – Little Mermaid
October 1 – At the Zoo
October 8 – Autumn
October 15 – Bugs
October 22 – Wild West
October 29 – Halloween

WINTER SEMESTER 2026
January 7 – New Year’s Party
January 14 – Arctic Explorers
January 21 – Pajama Party
January 28 – Colours
February 4 – Pirates
February 11 – Valentine’s Day
February 18 – Dr. Seuss
February 25 – Senses

SPRING SEMESTER 2026

March 25 – Over the Rainbow

April 1 – April Fool’s Day

April 8 – Mama and Baby Animals

April 15 – Around the World

April 22 – Circus

April 29 – Forest Animals

May 6 – Superheroes

May 13 – Flowers

Paws for Stories
2026-04-15 18:30 - 19:30 | Burlington Public Library- Alton, Tim Dobbie Drive, Burlington , Ontario, Canada
Snuggle up and read to a St. John Ambulance therapy dog. For ages 6 to 12.

Build confidence and a love of reading by reading aloud to a furry friend. Each child will spend about 10 minutes reading to one of two trained pet therapy dogs and their adult handler. While they wait for their turn, kids can work quietly on literacy activities in the program room. Geared to children ages 6-12.
Paws for Stories is very popular at this location, and space is limited; please arrive early to secure your spot.
Presented in partnership with St. John Ambulance

Sensory Storytime
2026-04-16 10:00 - 10:30 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
A story time for children who thrive better in small groups.

A small, welcoming group program with stories, songs, rhymes and sensory play activities for children ages 2-6 who have developmental disabilities, atypical sensory processing and/or other conditions.
Registration required.
If you need an accessibility accommodation during this program, please contact us before your visit. Email avanminn@hpl.ca.
Thursday, April 16: 10:00am – 10:30am
Binbrook Branch

Thursday, May 21: 10:00am – 10:30am
Binbrook Branch

Thursday, June 18: 10:00am – 10:30am
Binbrook Branch

Lil' Kids Club
2026-04-16 10:30 - 11:30 | Hamilton Farmers Market, 35 York Boulevard, Hamilton, Ontario, L8R1R6, Canada
Introducing the Hamilton Farmers’ Market Lil’ Kids Club! Once all the bigger kids are back to school, join us at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market for toddler aged programming (0-4yrs) on Thursday mornings.

Starting September 11th, from 10:30-11:30AM, join Darcy from Enchantment Theatre for a program that introduces the love of the Market through music, storytelling, and interactive play. It is designed to build a foundation of social skills and strong sense of community.
Classes include singing, interactive play, instruments, movement and listening activities.

Ask a Speech Language Pathologist
2026-04-16 10:30 - 11:30 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Your chance to ask an SLP about your child’s language development.

Pose your questions about your child’s (age four and younger) communication development to an Early Words Speech-Language Pathologist at this FREE drop-in program. While you are at the Kenilworth branch, participate in Baby Storytime at 10:00am. Presented in partnership with Early Words.
Thursday, April 16: 10:30am – 11:30am
Kenilworth Branch

Friday, May 01: 10:00am – 10:30am
Sherwood Branch

Friday, June 12: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Saltfleet Branch

Free Trial Sports Class (1.5-3.5yrs)
2026-04-16 16:30 - 17:30 | St John’s Anglican Church Burlington, 2464 Dundas Street West, Burlington, ON, Canada
Join coach Dana for a free Fit For Fun multi-sport class!
Register at www.fitforfunprograms.com

After School Youth Workshop: Leather Crafting
2026-04-16 16:30 - 18:30 | Oakville Galleries, 1306 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 1L6, Canada
Unleash your creativity at Oakville Galleries! Join our art instructor, Jenna, for a hands-on workshop where participants will explore the timeless craft of leather working. In this special one-night-only session, students will learn the fundamentals of the trade while designing a functional, custom traveler’s notebook. Register online.
From selecting materials to shaping, punching, and decorating, this workshop offers a perfect introduction to a traditional craft. By the end of the two-hour session, every participant will have a unique, finished piece to take home.
No prior experience is necessary—perfect for beginners!

Time:
4:30–6:30 PM
Ages:
8-13
Location:
Oakville Galleries in Gairloch Gardens

Kids' Book Swap
2026-04-17 10:00 - 11:00 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Bring your new or gently used children’s books to swap with others.

Read it? Swap it. Bring your new or gently used children’s books to swap with others. For every book you bring, you can pick a free one. Please make sure donated books are in good condition and relatively current.
Friday, April 17: 10:00am – 11:00am
Locke Branch

Saturday, May 30: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Barton Branch

Library Mini Golf
2026-04-17 12:00 - 13:00 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Design and play an indoor mini golf course.

Design and play an indoor mini golf course using library books and your imagination. Supplies provided.
Friday, April 17: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Saltfleet Branch

Friday, June 26: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Saltfleet Branch

Saturday Art Smarts at Oakville Galleries
2026-04-18 | Oakville Galleries, 1306 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 1L6, Canada
This spring, get Art Smart with engaging, hands-on workshops at Oakville Galleries! Join our experienced, returning art instructor, Meghan, as she guides your child(ren) through a series of exciting creative projects. Each session is designed to introduce children to new techniques and materials, encouraging them to explore new ways of creating art. Register online.

Over the course of the 2-hour workshop, participants will complete their very own finished works of art.

This session, we are offering stand alone workshops on the following Saturdays with a morning and afternoon session on each date:

Saturdays, March 28–May 2, 2026
Choose from two sessions each day
10:30AM – 12:30PM or 1:30PM – 3:30PM

March 28 | Week 1: Acrylic
Create a bold custom puzzle painting using acrylics
April 4 | Week 2: Drawing
Create your own comic strip illustration
April 11 | Week 3: Watercolour
Design and paint a watercolour pop up
April 18 | Week 4: Sculpture
Sculpt and construct a ‘tiny world’ using clay
April 25 | Week 5: Printmaking
Explore Gel plate printing to create your own unique monoprints
May 2 | Week 6: Mixed Media
Learn to weave using a mini loom technique

Casa Open House -Stirling Montessori Academy
2026-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Stirling Montessori Academy, 123 Main St. East, Milton, Ontario, L9T 1N4, Canada
Visit Stirling Montessori Academy’s Casa Open House on Saturday, April 18th, 10am-12pm.
Stirling’s Casa program, for children ages 3–6, nurtures academic growth, social confidence, and emotional well‑being. Come meet our educators and explore our beautifully prepared classrooms.
Appointments required: 905-864-6000

Earth Day Activities with BioTroopers
2026-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Joseph Brant Museum, 1240 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington, Ontario, L7S1C5, Canada
Get ready for a fun-filled morning at Joseph Brant Museum! Join us on Saturday, April 18 from 10am–12pm for exciting Earth Day adventures with BioTroopers. These drop-in activities are all included with regular admission—so kids can jump right in and explore, create, and celebrate our planet. Pre-registration is not required.
Ocean Acidification Lab: The Science of Changing Seas
A vibrant, colour-changing experiment where kids uncover how our oceans are changing- and what it means for marine life.
Milk Plastic Lab: Turn Milk into Plastic!
A surprising, hands-on activity where kids transform milk into a biodegradable plastic and discover how materials can be reimagined to reduce waste.

HDCH Spring Market: Growing Together
2026-04-18 10:00 - 15:00 | Hamilton District Christian High, 92 Glancaster Road, Ancaster, ON, L9G 0G9, Canada
Join us at the HDCH Spring Market: Growing Together for a vibrant Saturday full of food, shopping, entertainment, & community connection! We’re grateful to our Spring Market Sponsor, Finn Pools, for helping make this event possible. Free admission! -Enjoy a delicious lunch! -Refuel at the coffee shop & enjoy live entertainment. -Explore our Vendor Marketplace featuring a variety of local businesses. -Bring the kids to the Kids’ Space, sponsored by Westland Insurance, with fun games & activities!

The Bump, Baby & Toddler Expo
2026-04-18 10:00 - 16:00 | Ancaster Fairgrounds, 630 Trinity Road South, Ancaster, Ontario, L0R1R0, Canada
Hamilton’s only baby show returns with 80+ brands, services, expert speakers, and exciting experiences for expectant and new parents, plus families with toddlers. The Bump, Baby & Toddler Expo brings everything you need—baby gear, essentials, resources, and support—into one fun, convenient day.
Enjoy free samples, giveaways, live seminars, interactive attractions, and exclusive perks like tote bags and Baby Bucks for early attendees. Meet trusted professionals, shop top products, and connect with your local parenting community.
Join us Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10am–4pm at Ancaster Fairgrounds. Admission starts at $6, with free parking and free entry for kids 16 and under.

-> Link to www.eventbrite.ca/e/1979525636466/?discount=activeparents2026
Exclusive Active Parents Partner Ticket, Complimentary Ticket for access from 1pm – 4pm

Grief Storytime at HPL
2026-04-18 10:30 - 11:00 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Gentle and supportive stories for grieving families.

If you are struggling to talk about grief within your family, Grief Storytime is a safe and nurturing space to explore emotions and find support in the community. Presented by Our Loss.
Saturday, May 16: 10:30am – 11:00am
Valley Park Branch

Saturday, April 18: 10:30am – 11:00am
Terryberry Branch

Saturday, May 30: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Sherwood Branch

2026 gritLIT Festival - Festival Field Trip at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market with Zenia Wadhwani
2026-04-18 10:30 - 11:30 | Hamilton Farmers Market, 35 York Boulevard, Hamilton, Ontario, L8R1R6, Canada
Welcome to gritLIT 2026 happening April 15–19 at various locations across Hamilton, including Homewood Suites By Hilton (40 Bay Street South), the Art Gallery of Hamilton (123 King Street West), and the Hamilton Farmer’s Market (35 York Boulevard).
In this session join picture book author Zenia Wadhwani (Once Upon a Sari, Fly in the Chai, and ‘Twas the Night Before Diwali) for a morning of stories and art making at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market.

Cineplex Family Favourites
2026-04-18 11:00 - 12:30 | Cineplex and SilverCity Theatres, Ontario, Canada
Weekend plans for the whole gang just got easier! Our Family Favourites program runs movies Saturdays, for only $3.99 plus applicable taxes (in-theatre price). Select theatres only!
April 18 – Despicable Me
April 25 – Despicable Me 2
May 2 – Minions
May 9 – Despicable Me 3
May 16 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
May 24 – Despicable Me 4

Standing Tall Kin
2026-04-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Crawford Lake Conservation Area, 3115 Conservation Road, Milton, Ontario, L9T 2X3, Canada
Join us at Crawford Lake on Saturday, April 18 for Standing Tall Kin: Teachings on Seeds and Medicines with Nookomis Carol. Standing Tall Kin are the plants and seeds that support life – our relatives who teach, provide, and connect us to the land. At this special event with Nookomis Carol, you’ll hear the stories of Standing Tall Kin, learn about their gifts, and explore traditional teachings on seed stewardship and plant medicines. Included with membership or regular park admission.

Aldershot Pool Events
2026-04-18 13:30 - 15:30 | Aldershot Pool, 50 Fairwood Place West, Burlington, Ontario, L7T1E5, Canada
December 20th : Ice Safety Games
Winter is coming — are you ready? Join us for interactive ice safety games and activities. Learn how to stay safe around frozen water and what to do in an emergency. It’s cool and educational!
January 17th : Winter Hat & Snowflake Crafts
Let’s transform Angela Coughlan into a winter wonderland! Create snowflake art and cozy hat crafts to decorate our space. It’s a blizzard of creativity! After crafting, enjoy a splash in our fun swim!
February 21st : Learn How to Become a Lifeguard
Ever wondered what it takes to be a lifeguard? Come learn the steps to join the team, how to volunteer in aquatics, and play lifeguard-themed games. Your journey starts here!
April 18th : Duck Scavenger Hunt & Craft
Quack your way through a duck-themed scavenger hunt! Then, get crafty and colour your own duck to take home. Don’t forget to join the fun swim while you’re here!
May 16th: Swim Assessments
Planning to take swim lessons this summer? Come get assessed to find your perfect level! We’ll help you get ready for registration and answer all your questions. After your assessment, enjoy a splash in our fun swim!
June 20th : Boating Safety
Heading to the cottage? During our fun swim lifeguards will teach you the essential boating safety tips and how to use lifejackets properly. Play games, win prizes, and take home life-saving knowledge for summer fun!

Sing As You Are
2026-04-18 14:00 - 15:00 | HPL – selected branches, Library Branches, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Raise your voice and explore sound with the Hamilton Children’s Choir.

Raise your voice and explore sound with the Hamilton Children’s Choir. Learn about our vocal instruments and build an instant choir through easy-to-learn (and super catchy) ditties. All are welcome, including those who can’t read music or carry a tune. Geared toward children ages 4-10 with adult caregiver participation.
Registration encouraged. Drop in participation is welcome on the day of program, if space allows.
Saturday, April 18: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Waterdown Branch

Friday, June 05: 10:00am – 11:00am
Dundas Branch
