By Ken Hirter
This year I am letting my feet take me to the fantastic things to do right here, from festivals, parks and street fairs. So far this summer it has been so much fun and kept the tourism dollars local.
Walk, bike or stroll the kilometers of trails from Bayfront Park along the harbour to Waterfront Park on Pier 8 it’s all yours to discover right in the heart of the North End. It is absolutely stunning. There is so much beautiful greenspace and it is close to the urban core. It is getting in touch with good ole mother nature at it very best. The area has an up north, cool vibe. Having Bayfront Park cleaned up was just in time for the spring and summer.
There are fun things to do as you walkabout, ride about or drive through the North End this summer.
HARBOUR-WEST TROLLEY TOUR starts next to Williams Fresh Café and takes you to Princess Point (RBG) It is a very informative trolley ride with a history lesson and a learning experience as well. Fun for all the ages, so go out and buy your boarding pass today. (adults $10, seniors $8:50, children 4 – 12 yrs $7 and children 3 and under free. Debit or credit card only. No Cash accepted.
Daily Service runs from June 28th till September 1st.
Ride the Little Red Trolley Car you will not be disappointed.
CANADA DAY AT BAYFRONT PARK This years Fireworks display at Bayfront Park was colorful and l must say Hamilton; it was simply the best to take in this year. This day long celebration attracted over 10,000 people and was a sea of red and love with so much community spirit. Over 15 food trucks were busy serving steady lines of the hungry folks. The entertainment was stellar. It was so nice to hear, see and experience this year. It was awesome.
OPEN STREETS HAMILTON was held on June 22nd and saw King Street closed to traffic from John Street to Gage Park. There were many booths, restaurants, stores and activities to keep you busy and entertained as well. If you missed it the good news is that you can catch Open Streets again on Sunday September 28th.
ITALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL celebrating their 75th anniversary with a delightful 2 day festival. The festival on James Street North on June 21st and 22nd was such a success this year that it will be back next year. So save the date June 20th and June 21st 2026.
The stunning mural depicting the street festival is so beautiful, capturing the old country European feel. From the Italian foods, music and fireworks, it was lovely to experience and take in this year. ” Hamilton’s Italian Heritage is more than reflection. It is active, evolving celebration of identity, full of resilience, generosity and joy. It reminds us that heritage isn’t something to remember, but something to live.”
So whether it be DJ music roller skating next door at William Café, the music band stand with groups and solo performances throughout the summer you can bring a lounge chair, sit back relax and enjoy the local musicians and singers. At dusk you can catch the beautiful harbor lights and gorgeous sunsets.
This year do a Summer Staycation, put money back into your neighbourhood
This year the recovery of the past few years continues with the Hamilton clean up Blitz here in the North End. It takes a Community and all the people to take part. Making it great once again to see and enjoy.
And if you don’t livre in the North End, its easy to get here on the ROUTE 99 WATERFRONT SHUTTLE. FREE to ride and visit Hamilton’s waterfront attractions like Bayfront Park and Hamilton Harbour. Shuttles run seven (7) days a week, every 30 minutes between 10am. & 9.00pm. Operates from the last Sunday in June to Labour Day.
For a listing of the wonderful calendar events here in North End for August 2025. HAMILTON WATERFRONT TRUST Information @hamiltonwaterfront.com
Get out and enjoy being a tourist in your city and take in the adventures that await you. Hamilton’s North End – yours to rediscover this summer.
Please note that tourism Hamilton provides handouts of ” Things To Do – August 2025. Looking for more? Check out Hamilton Bucket List for must see and experiences in our City. Please visit their website or location at the Tourism Hamilton Information Center, 28 James Street North.
Website: HTTPS://tourismhamilton.com/bucketlist/ Have a safe and wonderful summer season everyone.
