The Burlington Christmas Market is back downtown this weekend from Thursday to Sunday December 11–14, running daily from 12–8 p.m. at 2030 Caroline St. It’s free to wander through the stalls, where local makers set out handmade gifts and food vendors offer seasonal treats that feel straight out of a European market.

The market will also include various live music performances, and even Santa will be making an appearance! You can eat, sip, & shop this weekend this weekend at one of the town’s most anticipated Holiday markets.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward accepted Municipal World’s Mayor of the Year award last Thursday, honoured for her work launching the Elect Respect campaign and pushing for healthier political dialogue. She credited the many women who helped shape the movement and said the recognition belongs to everyone involved.

The award also reflects the ongoing challenges women in politics face, including harassment Meed Ward says persists today. Municipal World cited her steadiness and courage as reasons for the unanimous choice, marking a meaningful moment for Burlington.

The Burlington Community Foundation has awarded $315,000 to 35 local charities this year, with $75,000 directed to seven organizations tackling food insecurity. Groups like Next Door Social Space, Open Doors at St. Christopher’s, and several regional food programs say the support comes at a time when rising costs are pushing more residents to seek help.

These grants fund everything from free meal programs to school nutrition initiatives and delivery drivers who keep food moving across Halton. Local leaders say the investment helps shift the community from crisis response toward long-term stability, creating more reliable places for people to access healthy food.

The Burlington Dads are deep into their fifth annual toy drive, a tradition that’s grown into one of the city’s warmest holiday efforts. The group collects toys and raises funds so local families can choose gifts that feel right for their kids, and this year they’ve already gathered more than $45,000 for a holiday shopping spree.

Last Thursday morning, the drive got a big boost when Clinton Howell’s team at Re/Max Escarpment Realty dropped off a trailer packed with more than 200 toys. Their donation adds to what the dads will distribute through the Salvation Army Burlington and United Way Halton-Hamilton.

Monday, December 8
☀️ Sunny to partly cloudy and cold
High: –5 °C | Low: –13 °C

Tuesday, December 9
☁️ Cloudy and breezy with some snow
High: 2 °C | Low: -7 °C

Wednesday, December 10
🌧️ Mix of snow and rain, breezy morning
High: 3 °C | Low: –6 °C