The holidays are all about spending time with families and friends — but that doesn’t mean you have to spend that time…at home! Whether you have to shift your Christmas dinner plans or you don’t celebrate Christmas, there are still a lot of fun things to do on Christmas Day.
Are you wondering, “What is open on Christmas Day?” We’ve got the answer for you! There are quite a few things open on Christmas Day in and around Hamilton and Burlington — if you know where to look.
We have assembled a list of great things to do on Christmas Day near Burlington, Hamilton and beyond. Did we miss your favourite holiday season activity? Or do you know of other spots places open for business on December 25th? Please share it with us and we can add it to this list.
Things To Do On Christmas Day: See The Holiday Lights
Burlington’s Lakeside Festival of Lights is a magical display at Spencer Smith Park, and it’s always open. The lights are the prettiest after the sun goes down, but the display is open every day, even Christmas Day.
Drive Around and check out the best Christmas decorated homes in the region, all thanks to our Photo Gallery and Map. This year we’ve created some driving routes to help you make the most of your time.
Coronation Park’s drive through Christmas light display is a lovely way to soak up some holiday cheer. Bring your hot chocolate!
Have Fun Outdoors
Enjoy one of the many outdoor ice skating rinks nearby. Skate rentals will most likely be closed, so make sure to bring your own. In addition to neighbourhood rinks, you’ll find extra special spots at Spencer Smith Park, Pier 8 and Waterdown Memorial Park.
Hiking trails will be quiet, which makes December 25th the perfect day for hiking with your friends and family. These hiking trails are the best ones around, and we have a second list of stroller-friendly (sled friendly?) trails, too.
My girls loved playing at the playground not matter the season. Who can resist sliding down the slide with a freshly fallen layer of snow?
Speaking of snow, hopefully we some good coverage this year so our kids can go tobogganing! It’s the best free thing to do in the winter!
Have Fun Indoors
Movie Theatres are a popular destination on Christmas Day – and they are not busy at all! So if you’re waiting to see that new release, today is the day!
Ripley’s Aquarium is open Christmas Day and will probably be quieter than on any other day over the winter break.
Looking for some unusual things to do on Christmas Day? Head to Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls! So many attractions, shops and restaurants are open on December 25th. They have limited hours, but the lineups will be almost non-existent!
Volunteer locally. If you plan a little in advance, there are a variety of very worthy causes that can use your support and muscle. Offer your time to local shelters, soup kitchens, or community centers helping those in need.
Low-Key Activities That Are Lots of Fun
If you’d rather stay home, here are some suggestions for things to do in the winter. You don’t have to venture outdoors to have a great time. We love baking and having some extra time means you can treat yourselves to one of these delish brunch ideas.
Wow the kiddos with some easy at-home crafts and experiments that we have tested. Kids will give them rave reviews!
If you’re on the ball, you can pick up lots of books and activity kits from the local library to keep your kiddos entertained today.
Stay in your pyjamas, pop some popcorn and hunker down for an all-day movie marathon. We know some great options for the whole family.
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