I hope you had a relaxing summer because your social calendar is about to fill up. As usual, Hamilton's biggest and best events are all happening in September. From live music to art, food and film, there really seems to be something for everyone. If you don't like one of those things... who are you? Have fun, play safe and say hello if you see me out and about!
Locke Street Festival: Sept. 8 / 10-11 / Besides Supercrawl, this has got to be the most attended festival in the city. 200 vendors, 2 stages, a jumpy castle, and over 15,000 visitors stretch this little street to its limits. I'm not one for crazy crowds, but the yummy treats, solid entertainment and healthy mix of local vendors and artists has me strolling back year after year.
Grimbsy Festival of Art: Sept. 8 / 10-4 / As the new homebase for my parents, I was lured out to this festival last year and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the artistry I found there. I remember being seriously impressed by glass-blown ornaments, handwoven chairs, feather earrings (which I bought), and cherry pie, to give you an idea of the variety. This marks the festival's 45th year, so you know they must be doing something right.
Supercrawl: Sept. 14-15 / James St. N. / I won't be able to attend Supercrawl this year, but I have no qualms in telling you to go. Go. GO! I had so much fun last year — I was buzzing for days afterwards. I've been plugging my ears and singing any time information was released about what's on tap for this year, but a quick glance at the
site proves you're in for an amazing time.
Born Ruffians,
Owen Pallet,
hexagons,
graffiti walls,
sound cannons? GO!
Sew Hungry Food Truck Rally: Sept. 21 / Ottawa St. / 11-3 / Some of the best food trucks Ontario has to offer are all meeting for lunch on Ottawa St. and you're invited! From poutine to cupcakes, they're guaranteed to have your cravings covered. Let me know if you plan to attend, I may have a fabric shopping list for you. Haha! :)
AGH World Film Festival: Sept. 21-30 / If you've ever been the the Toronto Film Fest, chances are you've woken at the crack of dawn to get tickets, waited in lines for hours, overpaid for a gala or two with absolutely no added value, or all of the above. Give yourself a break and give Hamilton's film fest a shot instead this year.
Take This Waltz,
Boy,
2 Days in New York and
Norwegian Wood are at the top of our list, which just so happens to make up a
10-ticket pass for two — bring on the popcorn!
Open Streets Hamilton: Sept. 23 / 10-5 / Open Streets is taking it one step further this season by adding a second location in the west end. In addition to James St. North, the entire McMaster campus will be car-free, with an extended “Open Street” along Sterling Street to Dalewood. I think it's a great idea to connect these two parts of our city and I suggest a visit to both, travelling between via the beautiful
waterfront trail. What a great way to spend a Sunday.
