Good morning Burlington. Happy Monday!

The first snowfall of the season has arrived… How are we feeling about it?

Here is what to expect in today’s issue:

  • 🥁 Santa Parade returns, Winter Wonders, and property tax

  • 🎄 Volunteers needed, ABBA tribute for seniors

  • 📅 Some events to keep you busy!

Thanks for being part of our growing community, let’s dive in!

~ Nick

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🎅 Burlington’s Santa Parade Spreads Holiday Cheer

Source: burlingtontoday.com

Downtown Burlington will be buzzing on Sunday, December 7, as the Santa Claus Parade makes its way through the city from 2 to 4 p.m. Expect community floats, school groups, and the Burlington Teen Tour Band bringing their usual energy. Santa will close the parade, waving from his sleigh to mark the start of the holiday season.

The route runs from Drury Lane and New Street to St. John the Baptist Church. Children can hand their letters to Santa, collected by Canada Post along the way, and donations of food or money will support local families. It’s a simple, feel-good Burlington tradition that brings people together at just the right time of year.

RBG Winter Wonders Event

The Royal Botanical Gardens is bringing back its popular Winter Wonders event from November 27 to January 4, transforming Hendrie Park into a glowing winter walk filled with lights, art, and music. It’s an easy way to slow down, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the season surrounded by family, friends, and a little sparkle.

This year adds something new, a cozy artisan village featuring handmade goods from local makers, perfect for holiday shopping. The RBG Express and the indoor Botanical Train Display will also return, adding a bit of nostalgia for longtime visitors.

🏛️ Burlington Eyes 4.5% Property Tax Increase

Burlington residents could see a property tax increase of up to 4.5% next year as city officials outline plans to maintain and improve local services. The proposed rise would mean about $44 more in taxes for every $100,000 of a home’s assessed value. City staff say the increase is needed to cover aging infrastructure, rising costs, and climate-related challenges.

The $387 million budget includes $12.2 million each for renewing parks and city facilities, plus major road repairs on Walkers Line and Fairview Street. Smaller projects include funds for the new Appleby library, cybersecurity, and protecting natural areas. Council will discuss the budget throughout November, with a final decision expected December 2. Officials say the goal is to balance affordability with keeping Burlington’s services strong for the future.

📰 More News

🌟 Volunteers Needed for Festival of Lights Magic

The Burlington Lions Club is celebrating 30 years of holiday joy with the Festival of Lights at Spencer Smith Park, running from November 28 to January 7. Each year, more than 60 glowing displays light up the lakefront, and this season, the magic will expand beyond the park with new installations throughout the downtown.

To keep the lights shining bright, volunteers are needed for the “twinkle patrol.” Helpers will greet visitors, assist with events, and more. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people, earn volunteer hours, and play a part in one of Burlington’s most cherished holiday traditions.

🎶 Free ABBA Tribute Concert for Burlington Seniors

Get ready to sing along, Burlington! The Burlington Seniors’ Centre will turn into a lively concert hall on Thursday, November 27, as CARP hosts a free evening of music and fun featuring The ABBA Tribute Group. From “Dancing Queen” to “Mamma Mia,” the band will perform all the favourites.

The concert runs from 7 to 8:45 p.m. and is part of CARP’s ongoing effort to create fun, social events for local seniors. It’s a chance to enjoy good music, good company, and a relaxed evening that celebrates community and connection.

Monday, November 10
☁️ Cloudy with a couple of snow showers
High: 2 °C | Low: ‑2 °C

Tuesday, November 11
☁️ Cloudy and breezy in the afternoon
High: 4 °C | Low: 2 °C

Wednesday, November 12
☁️ Remaining cloudy with a shower in places
High: 7 °C | Low: 3 °C

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Yoga with Bunnies
Mon 11/10 @ 7PM-8PM
Blue Dot Acres

🤝 Visitor Day - Networking
Tue 11/11 @ 8AM-9:30AM
WorkWell Spaces

🃏 Euchre Tournament – Nostalgia Games Cafe
Tue 11/11 @ 7PM-10PM
Nostalgia Games Cafe

💼 2nd Wednesday Business Mixer
Wed 11/12 @ 9:30AM-11AM
Williams Fresh Cafe

🎙️ Podcast Workshops
Wed 11/12 @ 2PM-4PM
Orchard Community Hub

🌿 Henry’s Photo 101 for Gardens
Wed 11/12 @ 6:30PM-9PM
Central Arena

💼 Business Networking Meetup
Wed 11/13 @ 12:30PM-1:30PM
Realty World Legacy

🎤 Burlington Toastmasters Meeting
Thu 11/13 @ 7:30PM-9:30PM
1996 Itabashi Way

🎭 Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein
Thu 11/13 @ 8PM-10PM
Drury Lane Theatre

👜 Luxury Preowned Handbag Trunk Show
Fri 11/14 @ 4PM-9PM, Sat 11/15 @ 10AM-5PM
Barry’s Jewellers

🎄 Ireland House After Dark – Victorian Christmas
Fri 11/14 @ 7PM-9PM
Ireland House Museum

💃 El Cuadro Flamenco
Fri 11/14 @ 7PM-8:30PM
Taste of Colombia

🧠 Lynx Community Night Out – Trivia Night
Fri 11/14 @ 7:30PM-10PM
Joe Dog’s Gasbar Grill

🎤 Real Love – Kenny & Dolly Tribute
Fri 11/14 @ 8PM
Burlington Performing Arts Centre

❓ Trivia

Thank You!

Thanks for reading the Burlington Digest today. If you found something useful, share it with someone who is already playing Christmas music all day long.

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NICK POLLOCK
Editor / The Burlington Digest
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