After a particularly wet and rain-drenched week, it’s time to enjoy a sunny, summer weekend. Thankfully there are several festivities in the city that await.
Art Crawl returns on Friday
Art Crawlers will have full reign of James Street North on Friday which will be filled with art, music and food scenes.
It’s a one-stop shop held on the second Friday of every month where you can experience the creative culture of the city, while shopping local, supporting artists and taking in some downtown sights all at once.
This summer, a portion of James Street will be closed during Art Crawl between York Boulevard and Murray Street for pedestrian traffic only, so you can enjoy more of the art, performers, and vendors, right on the street.
Hamilton AfroJazz FEST 2024 – July 13 and 14
Also happening this weekend is the Hamilton AfroJazz FEST, organized by francophone Centre canadien pour l’unité de la famille. The festival celebrates African, Afro-descendant and Francophone cultures by providing a platform for local and international artists to perform for a diverse audience.
The event is free and takes place this weekend at Bayfront Park, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Because Beer festival
Because Beer Craft Beer Festival returns to Hamilton’s Pier 4 Park this weekend.
Nestled on the West Harbour waterfront, just a short stroll from the GO Station, the festival offers the opportunity to sample hundreds of craft beers and ciders from dozens of makers.
Festival-goers can also take in the music stage. The all-star line-up features headliners Billy Talent, Tokyo Police Club, PUP. Performers include Cancer Bats, Dizzy, NOBRO, Chastity, Cuff the Duke, Daniel Romano’s Outfit, Born in The Eighties, Status/Non-Status, and more.
Saturday and Sunday passes were still available as of late Thursday.
Kite Festival 2024
Kite Festival 2024 is an event that celebrates India’s own International Kite Festival and harvest celebration, Uttarayan.
The event will take place on July 13 and 14 at Beverly Community Park and will be filled with colourful kites, delicious food, and lively music. There will be kites of all shapes and sizes, from traditional diamond kites to intricate designs. Also present will be food vendors serving Indian cuisine, as well as live music and dance performances throughout the day.
The event is free to attend.
Enchanted Garden
The Royal Botanical Gardens invites families with young children to its fantasy-themed Enchanted Garden event at the Rock Garden. Children are encouraged to come dressed in costume, whether that be as a fairy, an elf or a wizard.
The event runs Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets are available for $18.
Forge FC vs Pacific FC
After defeating Toronto FC on Wednesday, Forge FC will face another stern test on Sunday when Pacific FC visits Tim Hortons Field this Sunday.
The game is on July 14 at 7 p.m.
Bird watching with Queer Coffee Hamilton
Join Queer Coffee Hamilton this Saturday to enjoy the wonders of bird watching. No experience is necessary.
Folks are meeting at the entrance of Churchill Park, 255 Glen Road and walk to the trails of Cootes Paradise. Street parking is available nearby and paid parking is at Cootes Paradise. Attendees are encouraged to bring a hat, binoculars, sunscreen, and bug spray.
The event goes from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Interactive Movie Night featuring Hot Rod
Hub of the Hammer Event Planning and The Staircase Theatre are teaming up again for an interactive screening of the 2007 comedy film Hot Rod starring Andy Samberg.
Audience participation is encouraged, and the screening will feature a themed cocktail which ties into the movie.
The screening is on July 13 and starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.