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Unique Gift Ideas For Mother’s Day!

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Discover the perfect Mother’s Day gift while supporting local businesses! Our curated gift guide features unique, heartfelt finds from shops throughout Oakville, Burlington & Hamilton!

NICETYS | OAKVILLE

You’ll find a huge selection of incredible kitchen essentials at Nicetys in Downtown Oakville, including this fantastic tableware complete with dragonfly patterns.
shop.nicetys.com

LAKESIDE LIVIN’ | OAKVILLE


Remind her you love her with these fun pitchers and saucers, dedicated to mom, at Lakeside Livin’ in Bronte Village.
lakesidelivin.com

THE FLORAL COLLECTIVE | OAKVILLE 

Find professionally crafted bouquets and arrangements that are just as special as your Mom is  at The Floral Collective in Kerr Village. Staring at $45!
thefloralcollectiveinc.com

CENTRO GARDEN | BURLINGTON


Handmade with a luxurious blend of lavender, patchouli, and lemongrass essential oils, this heavenly scent is sure to become moms fav! Plus, the biodegradable seed paper label turns into wildflowers when planted! Find this and many other great gift ideas at Centro Garden in Downtown Burlington.
centrogarden.com

LINEA INTIMA | OAKVILLE


This soft robe by Mari M comes in a calming powder blue with delicate lace at the cuffs and hem. It’s cozy yet elegant — just right for layering over your favourite sleepwear!
lineaintima.ca

INSIDE STORY | OAKVILLE


Make sure Mom can indulge in luxurious slumber with this PJ Salvage Night Shirt. The beautiful print from British Illustrator, Adrian Valencia adds an artistic touch to this button-up nightie.
insidestory.ca

THE URBAN VINE | DUNDAS

Treat mom to an outstanding olive oil, like the Eureka Lemon Olive Oil from The Urban Vine. Produced by pressing whole, fresh lemons together with early harvest, certified organic olives. It’s a light, refreshing flavour that is perfect with sautéed shrimp, scallops or as a drizzle on chicken or fish.
urbanvineinc.com

THE ART GALLERY OF HAMILTON | HAMILTON

The AGH “Cup of Tea Gift Box” contains locally made products that encourage you to press pause and relax with a soothing cup of tea. The beautiful card features art by Lindsay McCarroll, a Hamiltonian artist, a tea blend by Hamilton’s Monarch Tea Co., and stoneware mug by Nightshift Ceramics – which is also based in Hamilton.
artgalleryofhamilton.com

MEGS OCTOPUS GARDEN | BURLINGTON

These cheeky soaps are perfect for the maxed out mom in your life who could use a good laugh. Find a variety of options, scents and colours at Megs Octopus Garden in Downtown Burlington.
megsoctopusgarden.ca

JUS B GAUZE | BURLINGTON

Keep mom cozy in the Tommy Bahama Aruba Half Zip – available in a variety of fresh spring colours at Jus’ B Gauze in Burlington.
jusbgauze.com

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Wrap Up Some Me Time: Surprise Mom With An Experiential Gift This Mother’s Day

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Guess what the average mother craves but might not ask for: some quality time to herself. This Mother’s Day, consider treating Mom to an experience that helps her relax, recharge, and reconnect with her passions. Whether it’s a spa retreat, a creative workshop, a gourmet adventure, or a day in nature, Halton Region offers plenty of ways to celebrate the amazing mothers in our lives.

For the Mom Who Loves to Unwind: Spa Experiences

Zenbar Healing Studio
2983 Westoak Trails Blvd, Oakville

Treat Mom to pure relaxation at Oakville’s largest luxury day spa. This serene retreat features candlelit rooms and state-of-the- art wellness treatments, including two therapeutic halotherapy salt caves. With a variety of spa packages available, Mom is sure to leave feeling rejuvenated.
zenbarhealing.com

Spa in the Village
416 Pearl St, Burlington

Located in the charming Village Square of downtown Burlington, Spa in the Village offers luxurious Mother’s Day packages. Choose from Just for Mom, which includes an infrared sauna session, massage, customized facial, and hot stone pedicure, or Mom & Me for a shared spa day experience.
spainthevillage.ca

For the Creative Mom: Pottery & Art Classes

A pottery or paint class is a great gift idea for the mom who enjoys tapping into her creative side. Several studios in Halton Region offer single day or multi-week workshops where Mom can express herself through art.

Artventures Studios | Oakville offers a Mother’s Day pottery wheel and clay-making class for beginners.
artventuresstudios.com
Creative Insight Pottery Waterdown has one-day pottery wheel classes designed for first-timers.
creativeinsightpottery.com
Pottery N Paint Café | Burlington features canvas painting, pottery painting, and clay activities for all skill levels.
potterynpaintcafe.com

For the Cultured Mom:
A Gallery Membership Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington

An AGB membership keeps Mom connected to the artistic community while supporting a vital creative space and cultural centre. Perks include member rates on select art classes and programs, invitations to exhibition openings and special events, Clean Space, Clear Mind We Offer Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly and One Time Cleans 10% discounts at the gallery shop (excluding Art Sales & Rentals and sale items), 20% off in-person purchases of regularly priced items at Terra Greenhouses, and more!

The AGB’s mission is to provide access to art for the broader community, which includes free admission to all exhibitions.
agb.life

Art Gallery of Hamilton
123 King Street West, Hamilton

An AGH membership allows Mom to enjoy art all year long. Memberships include unlimited free admission, a 10% discount at the AGH shop and café, and special pricing on events. Until May 25th, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is hosting Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey, featuring more than 60 works by one of Canada’s most celebrated historical artists.
artgalleryofhamilton.com

For the Culinary Mom: Cooking & Chocolate- Making Classes

Longo’s Cooking Classes store locations in Burlington and Oakville Perfect for the Mom who enjoys cooking, but hates the cleanup! Longo’s offers both interactive and demonstration-style cooking classes where participants create delicious meals in a fun and social setting.
longos.com

Chocolate Tales | Hamilton

For the Mom with a sweet tooth, a chocolate-making workshop is something to look forward to. She’ll learn the secrets of chocolate craftsmanship in a hands-on experience that’s as delicious as it is fun. Chocolate Tales also offers other food workshops, including sourdough bread-making and pizza making.
chocolatetales.ca

For the Theatrical Mom:
Improv & Acting Classes

Mom deserves to be in the spotlight! If she’s the type who wouldn’t mind being on stage, why not give her a little encouragement with an acting or improv workshop.

Theatre Aquarius | Hamilton
Adult acting classes for beginners and experienced performers.
theatreaquarius.org
Oakville Improv
Offers fun and engaging improv workshops designed to boost confidence and creativity.
oakvilleimprov.com

For the Nature-Loving Mom:
A Membership to the Great Outdoors

Spending time in nature is the perfect way for Mom to recharge and enjoy the beauty of the region all year long.

Royal Botanical Gardens Membership

Canada’s largest botanical garden features stunning gardens and trails. Memberships also include special yearly exhibits.
rbg.ca

Hamilton Conservation & Halton Conservation Memberships

Give Mom unlimited access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural parks. Perfect for the Mom who enjoys peaceful walks and outdoor adventures.
conservationhalton.ca | conservationhamilton.ca

This year, skip the flowers and “best mom ever” coffee mugs and surprise Mom with an experience she’ll truly enjoy.

By Lisa Evans

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Adventures in Gardening: Growing Your Own Food Is Fun & Fruitful

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There’s something magical about planting a tiny seed and watching it grow into something you can actually eat. And for families, an edible garden is more than just a source of fresh food — it’s quality time outside, a science lesson, and a lot of fun.

Planting season is upon us, so consider reserving space for tomatoes, zucchini, beans, lettuce, herbs, and even some berry bushes. Whether you have a backyard, a small patio, or a cozy condo balcony, there are plenty of ways to create a garden that is easy to maintain, eco-friendly, and deliciously rewarding.

If the idea of a full-fledged veggie patch feels overwhelming, consider starting small with a herb garden. A few pots of basil, parsley, or mint can provide fresh flavour for your meals and is a simple way for kids to get involved by snipping a handful of herbs for dinner. If space is tight, consider a vertical garden. Wall mounted planters or stackable pots make the most of a small area. They look great, too.

When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper.

For people with yards, raised garden beds or a dedicated vegetable patch can yield an impressive harvest. Just be sure to plan your space wisely. Some plants, like zucchini, can take over if given the chance. Trust me, it’s all fun and games until your zucchini ends up wrapped around your neighbour’s pool pump. If you’re short on space, containers along a fence line or placed on a patio are a great option. Tomatoes, peppers, and even strawberries can thrive in pots.

“Good soil is the foundation of a great garden,” says Catherine Bulow, Store Manager at Bulow Garden Centre, Oakville. “If you’re planting in the ground, enrich your soil with compost or aged manure before digging in,” she says. “In containers, use a high-quality organic potting
mix. Don’t forget to space plants according to their needs.”

Bulow stresses the importance of giving seedlings enough room to thrive. While they’re not happy when crowded, giving seedlings too much space can waste valuable growing room. “As a general rule of thumb, try to plant leafy greens closer together, while sprawling plants like cucumbers need space to spread,” she says. To keep your garden as low-maintenance and sustainable as possible, consider using self-watering containers.

Savvy gardeners have learned through trial and error that, just as humans thrive when surrounded by others we get along with, companion plants support each other. For example, tomatoes and basil thrive together, and marigolds help keep pests away.

One final tip

Don’t forget to water your garden, especially during the hot months. Add mulch to retain moisture — it does double duty by keeping pesky weeds down. Your local garden centre sells a variety of mulches, including cedar and pine, that can play a big role in protecting your garden from drought.

Watching plants grow from a seedling to a full-grown edible plant is very satisfying. If you give kids a basket or bowl for ripe veggies and berries, they’ll definitely sample sun-warmed cherry tomatoes fresh off the vine. My daughter claims she must taste the raspberries she picks for “quality control” purposes.

One of the best parts of growing your own food is watching kids connect with what’s on their plate. When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper. Gardening teaches children about the ecosystem, the privilege of fresh and nutritious food, and how patience can lead to yummy rewards.

LOCAL LINKS

Agram Garden Centre
2018 Dundas Street East,
Oakville

Bulow Garden Centre
370 South Service Road West,
Oakville

Connon Nurseries
656 Robson Road,
Waterdown
connon.ca

Terra Greenhouses
2273 Halton Regional Road 5,
Burlington
terragreenhouses.com

Sheridan Nurseries
606 Southdown Road,
Mississauga
sheridannurseries.com

By Lisa Thornbury
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Spring Fashion Finds!

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Spring is just around the corner! Shop these fashion finds, available at these fantastic local retailers.

LAKESIDE LIVIN, OAKVILLE

Get outside this spring and let the world know who you’re strolling with. Find these cute toques and lots of other baby gifts and goodies at Lakeside Livin’ in Bronte Village.
lakesidelivin.com

BOS & CO, BURLINGTON

Softinos by Bos & Co are the perfect spring/summer travelling shoe; super flexible and super soft with lightweight memory cushioning. Made in Portugal. Sold exclusively at Bos & Co.
bosandco.com

IDH CLOSET, BURLINGTON

A cozy, stylish piece that brings warmth and charm to any wardrobe. Featuring a soft, breathable knit, this sweater offers a relaxed fit that’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. Its timeless design and versatile style make it easy to pair with everything from jeans to skirts, making it an essential for your everyday wardrobe.
idhcloset.com

MY GIRLFRIEND’S CLOSET, OAKVILLE

Find this look and many more at My Girlfriend’s Closet, an upscale consignment shop in the heart of Bronte Village!
mygirlfriendsclosetoakville.com

LINEA INTIMA, OAKVILLE

Embrace effortless elegance with Marie Jo Lingerie in a dreamy pastel blue. Adorned with vibrant floral embroidery, it captures the fresh, uplifting spirit of spring. A perfect T-shirt bra—elevated with exquisite detail and a touch of romance.
lineaintima.ca

JUS B’ GAUZE, BURLINGTON

Customize these necklaces with interchangeable cords and beads. You can create a completely unique necklace, perfect for any new spring outfit.
jusbgauze.com

INSIDE STORY, OAKVILLE

These ultra-soft P.J.Salvage PJ’s with a button front top and tie pant with contrast pink piping come with an embroidered eye mask included. Perfect for “Apres Pickleball”!
insidestory.ca

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Embrace The Heat: A Guide To Hot Peppers

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Try to picture the last time you ate something spicy. Did you immediately have a burning sensation on your tongue or did the heat slowly build over time?

An instant burst of heat was likely the work of a scotch bonnet or ghost pepper. A milder pepper, such as a jalapeno or poblano, would’ve been responsible for the latter.

According to Leith Bengtson, founder of Burlington-based hot sauce producer Fury Hot Sauce, hot peppers can have a place in everybody’s kitchens — whether you’re a spice novice or self-proclaimed chili head.

In a place like Canada, the options are truly endless.

“All of the different cultures can come together to bring different aspects of heat to the table,” says Bengtson. “We’re seeing more and more different peppers around the world being represented, from African- style peppers to Peruvian. It’s an exciting smorgasbord we all benefit from.”

For those new to the world of spice or those who already enjoy spicy food and are looking for inspiration, these tips and tricks are sure to elevate everyday dishes.

Experiment with dried peppers


There’s a significant difference between a fresh pepper and a dried pepper. “A fresh jalapeno, for instance, has a fresh and vibrant bite to it, but then you take the dried version of that jalapeno — called a chipotle —and it becomes a whole different pepper,” says Ricardo Alvarez, owner of north Burlington’s Mexican eatery, Pepe and Lela’s.

Chipotle peppers have a smoky depth of flavour, with less punchy spice than a jalapeno. At Pepe and Lela’s, Alvarez rehydrates chipotle peppers in water before blending them into a crema sauce.

Habaneros are the new jalapeno

Jalapenos are known to be the go-to pepper for people with a lower spice tolerance, but Bengtson argues that habaneros deserve morerecognition for being similarly palatable.

“Habaneros are admittedly a few steps higher in terms of heat than jalapenos, but they’ve got really nice fruity characteristics. Generally speaking, you’d find habaneros in a lot of Caribbean and West Indian-style pepper sauces.”

Bengtson encourages people to get creative with habanero- based hot sauces, beyond the typical drizzle on pizza or wings. Hot sauces are great mixed into mayo and added to a sandwich, or even in hummus to be dipped with vegetables.

Remove the seeds andalways use gloves


The seeds are responsible for the majority of a pepper’s heat. If you’re just introducing spice into your life, put some gloves on and cut out the white membrane that holds the pepper’s seeds. “You’re left with the fleshy part of the pepper and you’re able to get much more of the natural pepper flavour without as much of the heat,” says Bengtson.

You should always wear gloves when handling hot peppers, since they contain capsaicin, an oil that can cause a burning sensation on your skin if it comes into contact.

Wash your hands thoroughly after removing gloves, to ensure the pepper’s oils haven’t seeped through. The worst thing you can do is rub your eyes without clean hands.

Serve the heat on the side


When Alvarez opened Pepa and Lela’s nearly six years ago, his vision was to make spicy food more approachable to the average customer. He takes a “Mexican cuisine approach” to heat, by offering extra spicy salsas on the side. This way, people can start and measure the amount of spice they use until they get more accustomed to it.

Alvarez shares his advice for making a delicious salsa. “Offset the intensity with a dash of olive oil or something sweet. You can never go wrong with a jalapeno pineapple salsa.”

LOCAL LINKS

Fury Hot Sauce | furyhotsauce.com
Pepe and Lela’s | pepeandlelas.com
Narenj | narenjoakville.com
El Inka | elinka.ca
Spice & Saffron | spicensaffron.com
Joe’s African & Caribbean Market | joesburlington.com
The Spice Bazaar | thespicebazaar.ca

BY LAUREN MEDEIROS
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Sustainable Bridal High Fashion Comes to Hamilton: Encore Bridal Studio’s Grand Opening & Fashion Show!

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After working in both high fashion and fast fashion in Europe, South-Asia, and Canada, Sheyda Sayahi witnessed the environmental, business, and human costs plus the sheer waste of the industry and determined to do something different. She set her sight on wedding dresses, often the most expensive piece a woman buys, yet wears only once.

Sayahi announces the grand opening of Encore Bridal Studio with a Fashion Show on March 29. The elegant studio located at 62 King St E, Hamilton in the historic King John Building, has the feeling of a trip to Paris or a visit to a couturier and boasts a wide range of bridal dresses from designers as Pnina Tornai, Eva Lendel, Rita Vinieris, Vera Wang, Justin Alexander, Martina Liana, Enzoani, Lis Simon, Julian Eve, Sophia Tolli, Hayley Paige, Martin Thornburg and many more.

Costly to the planet, bridal gowns use resource-intensive materials and chemicals to make the fabrics white or cream. Sayahiexplains, “We are seeing a surge of bridal brands turning into mass producers and adopting ‘fast fashion’ methodologies to meet market demands. This means cutting costs – using cheaper labour and fabrics – and turning to synthetic materials which do not biodegrade like silks or other natural fibres – making wedding dresses potentially the most planet unfriendly item you ever own.”

Encore Bridal Studio is here to decrease the environmental (and monetary) cost of weddings with one dress at a time! Sayahi says, “I want to help reduce our carbon footprint while helping brides find their dream dress on budget.”

Sayahi believes, “Buying pre-loved doesn’t mean missing out on an exceptional and personal experience every bride deserves when shopping for her special dress.” At Encore Bridal Studio, brides experience an elegant, intimate, and private setting where they get to try on specially hand-picked dresses for them while enjoying light refreshments in the company of loved ones.

  • Today’s fashionistas are accustomed to buying pre-loved and vintage at the low and very high end – with millions shopping on sites such as The Real Real,
    Poshmark and ThredUp.
  • According to ThredUp, the resale market will be worth $350 billion by 2027.
  • A major polluter, the fashion industry creates 10% of carbon emissions and fills landfills across the world.
  • Knowing the cost to the planet caused by fashion, 40% of Generation Z shops vintage.
  • The global bridal wear market represents over $65 Billion and is expected to grow to $80 Billion in 2029 according to Bridal Wear Global Market Report 2025.
  • The Canadian Wedding Industry is valued at $5 Billion annually.
  • Ontario alone held 70,000 weddings in 2022 with an increase expected in 2025 and 2026.

Support sustainable fashion and local businesses and join Encore Bridal Studio’s Grand Opening & Fashion Show on Saturday March 29 at 7pm and be the first to view their stunning collection of pre-loved dresses at an extravagant evening that has come together through collaboration and sponsorship from local vendors and businesses as Dallas and Co. Events Agency, Special Event Rentals, Euphoria 158, Soma Bridal Boutique, Asteria Fine Wine & Imports, Starnotch Costumes, Metal to the Petal Florals, Blue Bird Blooms and many more. For the complete list of sponsors please visit Encore Bridal Studio’s Instagram page.

To book an appointment email at: admin@encorebridalstudio.com

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Laugh Your Head Off: Improv Classes May Be Just What The Doctor Ordered

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Two adults who hardly know each other are performing a murder scene at a comedy improv workshop. The man hits the woman on the head with a hammer, and she falls dramatically – so dramatically that she hurls her body through the air and lands hard, whacking her head on the leg of a table.

That woman was me. I got so into my role that I almost gave myself a concussion. While the instructor rushed off to get me some ice, my “murderer” sheepishly apologized, staring incredulously at the invisible (ie. non-existent) hammer in his hand.

As I write this, Southern Ontario is in a polar vortex and world politics are nothing to laugh about. Fortunately, there’s a cure for the blues right here in your neighbourhood.

Try some crazy fun

Studios and theatres in the Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth regions offer improv workshops for both kids and adults. Participants play games, do interactive exercises and sometimes act out scenes. The aim is to watch for the other person’s cues and respond in the moment. It’s trickier than it sounds, but the results are often hilarious.

Amy McKenzie, one of the founders of Oakville Improv Theatre Company, got into improv because it satisfied her need to perform but didn’t require “the aggressive and sometimes brutal competition” of auditions. “On the whole, the people I found who were attracted to improv were people who enjoyed collaborating, playing (like children do — without fear), and laughing,” she says. “It blew my mind.”

People from all walks of life learn improv, for myriad reasons. Those pursuing a career on stage gain valuable performance skills. For others it helps with social skills, builds courage, and brightens our mood. Improv teaches us to relax, and to be affable and fearless in front of others.

Good for what ails you

According to McKenzie, some folks sign up for improv classes because their HR people said they needed to get better at interacting with peers. And given that laughter is the best medicine, she adds, “I’ve literally had two people tell me improv was their prescription [from their doctor] to get them out of their heads, either for anxiety or depression.”

Christina Payne, founder of Improv Your Life, says many of her adult students (ages 18 to 78) have taken classes “to better themselves as a whole, to wiggle out of their comfort zones, meet new like-minded creative or funny friends, and try something that was outside the box to their usual.”

Almost anyone can do improv, as long as they’re willing to try something new. Participants should be open-minded. Some are surprised to discover that improv isn’t so much “thinking fast” as it is about slowing down and really listening to what’s going on around you. A reasonable degree of fitness also helps, since improvisers often use mime to create objects and environments and build a scene for the audience.

The Magic of Improv

“One of my favourite anecdotes is about a class we did with a group of parents and youths with autism. We were playing a game where everyone jumps in with an element to a frozen picture (or tableau) and all the students couldn’t wait to add their piece of the puzzle — except one young man who studiously stayed back and hadn’t participated for the entire class. His mother was trying to get him to leave her side, but he wouldn’t budge and seemed non-verbal.

At the last part of the game, we were building an airport. Some had jumped in as tourists, some as luggage, some as flight crew walking by. I had coached them to loudly proclaim what they were becoming, starting with the words ‘I am …’

I was just about to end the exercise because everyone had joined, when the young man boldly walked up to the stage area, lay down on the floor in a fetal position and yelled, “I am a refugee!”

Of course, all of the parents and I just gasped. It was so beautiful and a poignant addition to the picture. We thought he wasn’t paying attention, but he was deeply engaged.”

– AMY MCKENZIE,
Oakville Improv Theatre Company

A craft to master

Improv is, above all, an art form. Participants from Improv Your Life and Oakville Improv have gone on to perform at Second City, Saturday Night Live, Who’s Line is it Anyway, or to form their own improv troupes, write or perform in scripted or televised work.

As for the rest of us (who get hit by invisible hammers socially, not professionally), dabbling in the art of improv can be life-changing. It boosts confidence, teaches us to interact and collaborate with others, and feels wonderful. Best of all, it gets us in touch with our silliest and most genuine selves.

As Payne has found both as a performer andas a teacher, improv allows participants to be themselves. It’s something they can do “just for them,” she says, “not as a mother/wife/hubby/boss. Just something for them, without judgement.”

LOCAL LINKS

IMPROV YOUR LIFE
Find them on Facebook or e-mail
christina@improvyourlife.ca

OAKVILLE IMPROV THEATRE
COMPANY
2302 Bridge Road, Oakville
oakvilleimprov.com

THE STAIRCASE
27 Dundurn Street North, Hamilton
staircasehamilton.com

By Michelle Morra

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Game On: Indoor Sports To Keep You Active All Winter

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Canadian winters have a way of making us want to curl up under a blanket, drink our body weight in hot chocolate, and hibernate until Victoria Day. But while the windchill gives us the chills, there’s no need to give up on staying active. Indoor sports are the perfect way to keep moving, have fun, and shake off the winter blahs.

Where should you go to get your game on? Here are a few local indoor sports options to keep your energy up until tank top season.

Soccer

Many recreation centres and soccer domes offer leagues for all ages and skill levels, from casual pick-up games to competitive matches. The turf is forgiving, the pace is fast, and you won’t need to dig ice chunks out of your cleats. Or why not try futsal? It’s very much like soccer but uses a smaller, low bounce ball on a hard-court surface, smaller than a soccer pitch. This fast-paced game will get your blood pumping.

oakvillesoccer.ca
oakvillefutsalclub.com

Rock Climbing

Indoor climbing gyms offer a controlled environment where you can challenge yourself on different routes, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber. Bouldering is great if you want a shorter climb without the hassle of ropes, while top-rope climbing lets you reach new heights with a little extra security. Either way, it’s a killer workout without the frostbitten fingers.

climbersrock.com

Pickleball

If you haven’t tried pickleball yet, it’s time to see what the hype is about. This fast-paced, super-addictive game is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with paddles and a wiffle ball. The new indoor pickleball and paddle club that opened last fall in Burlington caught our attention. Blue Zone Courts co-owner Joyce Telmo-Kanti says, “Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world, and we’re seeing players of all ages coming to our club to learn and play.

“Padel is the newest ‘cool’ sport — massive in Europe, Latin America, and Dubai, and now taking off in Canada. Big names like Lionel Messi, Rafa Nadal, and David Beckham are hooked! It’s played on a glass-enclosed court, smaller than tennis, with fast rallies and exciting game play. If tennis and squash had a baby, it would be padel. It’s easy to learn and perfect for anyone looking for a dynamic and addictive racquet sport.”

bluezonecourts.com

Golf


If you’re itching to hit the links but your local course is buried under two feet of snow, indoor golf is the next best thing. High-tech simulators let you play virtual versions of world-famous courses without worrying about wind gusts or frosty greens. Facilities with putting greens and driving ranges help you refine your short game. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your swing sharp, practice putting, and avoid spring-season rust when the outdoor courses finally open.

simulinks.ca | dundasgolf.ca | tripleeaglegolf.com | birdiesindoorgolf.ca

Tennis and Badminton

Indoor courts allow you to keep your game sharp year-round and even build new skills. Whether you’re into casual rallies or intense matches, playing indoors means no wind messing up your serve and no puddles turning the baseline into a slip-and-slide.

joshuacreektennis.ca | ymcaofoakville.org

Drop-In Basketball

Many community centres host drop-in basketball sessions where you can show off your skills or just shoot around for fun. Whether you’re looking for a casual pick- up game or just a way to burn off some energy, indoor courts offer a great escape from winter’s grip, no mittens required.

kingscourts.ca/oakville

Staying active during winter isn’t just about avoiding couch potato status — it’s about keeping your body and mind engaged. Exercise boosts endorphins, helps fight off seasonal blues, and lets you socialize while doing something fun. Plus, when spring finally arrives, you’ll be ready to jump back into outdoor activities without needing a warm-up period.

So, pick an activity, grab a friend, and go play!

By Lisa Thornbury

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Party Time! Planning A Fabulous Birthday For Your Child Is A Piece of Cake

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Want to take your child’s birthday party beyond cake and balloons? Make it an experience they will never forget! Halton Region has plenty of options for themed adventures, interactive entertainment and activities that promise to make your child’s special day as unique as they are.

Party Like a Pop Star
B Town Sound
919 Fraser Drive, Unit 10, Burlington

Have a young Swiftie? At Party Like a Pop Star, kids don’t just party to pop songs—they become pop stars! This professional recording studio rolls out the red carpet (literally!) for a VIP experience. From glam makeup to recording a song or even making a music video, the kids are the stars of this show.

“They’re getting a behind-the-scenes experience of what it’s like to be a professional,” says Robyn Pauhl, owner of Party Like a Pop Star. And the cool factor? Off the charts. Custom playlists, cocktail tables, and yes, your kid can sit on the same couch Shawn Mendes did when he recorded here. You can even go full rockstar and arrive in a limo. This is more than a party—it’s an epic experience for kids who are ready to steal the spotlight!

The Learning Tree
1450 Headon road, Burlington

We all know teachers are the best organizers and at The Learning Tree, they’re also the best party hosts! Their themed birthday parties are a hit, with adoption parties (where kids can adopt a toy puppy, unicorn or dino) being the crowd favourite. The Learning Tree can even customize themes to match your child’s unique taste. “We had an ‘Adopt a Raccoon’ party as the birthday girl was obsessed with raccoons,” says Jodi Bowman, owner of The Learning Tree in Burlington. Each party is led by an Ontario Certified Teacher. At just $199 for the first 10 children, it’s an affordable, stress-free way to celebrate.

4Cats Arts Studio
Oakville & Burlington locations


Are you worried your little artist might turn your living room into a paint- splattered masterpiece? 4Cats Splatter Painting Parties allow kids to fling, splash and drip paint — without a single drop landing on your living room carpet! Each guest makes their own masterpiece, then helps create a larger canvas for the birthday star. It’s fun, it’s messy, and you don’t have to clean up a thing!

Yogatastic 4 Kids
3061 Walkers Line, Burlington

Take your child’s party to new heights at Yogatastic 4 Kids. Kids will fly, float and flip through suspension yoga poses followed by a mindfulness craft and, of course, cake. Want even more excitement? Go glow-in-the-dark under the studio’s neon lights. Kids even get to graffiti the studio’s mirrors, creating a one-of-a-kind glowing masterpiece. It’s the perfect combination of mindfulness, creativity and celebration!

Whether you’re hosting at home or want to add some extra fun to a venue, there are plenty of unique entertainment options to make your child’s party one to remember.

Bubble Shows

Laura Martin, owner of Beebop the Clown & Friends, calls her bubble shows a fresh alternative to traditional magic shows. The show is filled with science-based bubble tricks—from a bubble tornado to a bubble cube! For the grand finale, the birthday child gets wrapped inside a giant bubble. “It’s a really great photo opportunity,” says Martin. Bubble shows do need to be done indoors although Martin also offers outdoor bubble play parties for backyard events.

Balloon Twisting

Balloon animals have come a long way! Today’s balloon creations are wearable, interactive, and larger-than- life. “You can have all the balloons on a headband or you put it around their stomach and they’re running around riding a balloon dinosaur or a unicorn or they’re wearing butterfly wing balloons,” says Martin.

Character Appearances

Whether it’s Frozen’s Elsa or Spiderman swinging in for some superhero fun, character appearances add excitement and engagement, creating unforgettable memories and cherished photo moments. With so many creative and engaging options, birthday parties today aremore than just cake and candles—they’re experiences to remember.

By Lisa Evans
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Sign Me Up! Halton’s Best Summer Camps For Kids

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The first time I tried to register my kids for summer camp, I thought I was totally on top of it. On that sunny day in May, feeling ahead of the game, I learned the hard way that camp registration had opened months earlier… right in the middle of snowstorm season. By the time I got around to it, most camps were already full. It’s why Look Local’s summer camp round- up always makes the spring issue. Whether your kid dreams of sailing the high seas (ahoy matey!), exploring the great outdoors, or channeling their inner Swiftie, there’s an adventure waiting for them this summer!

Set Sail with Bronte Yacht Club
2514 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
bhyc.on.ca

Ready to set sail? At Bronte Harbour Yacht Club (BHYC), young sailors aged 7 to 17 can jump into an amazing sailing adventure with the Learn to Sail program. Led by Sail Canada certified instructors, this camp is all about fun, skill building, and time on the water — perfect for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Campers will learn boat handling, safety, and navigation while earning nationally recognized certifications. And when they’re not sailing? Expect more fun with activities like paddleboarding on Bronte Creek or ultimate frisbee in the park.

Explore the Great Outdoors
with Conservation Halton
Conservation Halton Parks
conservationhalton.ca

If your kids can’t get enough of the great outdoors, Conservation Halton’s Ways of the Woods camps are just the thing! Designed for adventurers aged 4 to 15, these camps take place across multiple parks, offering a true “choose your own adventure” experience. With camps offering hiking, swimming, boating, and archery, there’s no shortage of action. Plus, specialized options like “Raptor Camp” or “Girls Camp,” led by and for girls, ensure every camper finds their perfect fit.

Dive into History
at Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street, Oakville
oakville.ca

Looking for a summer camp that sparks curiosity and creativity? Oakville Museum has you covered. Designed for kids ages 4 to 12, this hands-on camp lets them dive into artifacts, critters, crafts, and more through immersive activities and themed weeks. From science and nature to heritage, architecture, and design, there’s always something new to discover. And the best part? It all happens in Lakeside Park, surrounded by historic Oakville sites — the perfect setting for a summer of learning and adventure!

Animal Adventures at Oakville
& Milton Humane Society
445 Cornwall Road, Oakville
omhs.ca

Kids & Critters is so much more than a camp. It’s an experience that leaves an impact. Hosted by the Oakville & Milton Humane Society, this hands-on, animal- focused camp gives kids (ages 6 to 12) the chance to connect with shelter animals, play games, get creative with crafts, and learn from inspiring guest speakers. It’s all about fun, responsibility, and compassion. With only 12 spots per week, it fills up fast. Don’t miss out!

Get Sporty at Cedar Springs Halton
Racquet & Sports Club
960 Cumberland Avenue, Burlington
cedarspringsclub.ca

Cedar Springs Sports Camps aren’t just about sports.They’re about teamwork, coordination, and having fun while staying active! At Burlington’s top racquet sports facility, little ones enjoy a variety of activities tailored to skill, supporting growth and enjoyment. With days packed full of expert training in
tennis, squash, and badminton, plus access to the club’s indoor/outdoor waterpark, there’s no shortage of fun or excitement!

Step Up to Dance at Dancermakerz
12 Innovation Drive, Waterdown
dancemakerz.com

Calling all Swifties (and Frozen, Moana, and Barbie fans)! Dancemakerz keeps the energy high all summer with dance camps full of fun, creativity, and self-expression. From ballet to hip-hop, kids will explore different styles of dance in a supportive space. Campers get the chance to show off their moves in end-of-week performances!

Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
agb.life

The AGB offers a huge variety of camps for kids from the age of 4 all the way up to 18. Half day and full day options are available, and you can choose to work with clay, perfect your photography skills, work with mixed media, or choose a general artistic program. Kids should expect to expand their imaginations, try new tools and processes, and make new friends, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Town of Oakville
Summer Camps
Various locations across town
oakville.ca

The Town of Oakville offers a wide variety of camps for children aged 4 to 12 at various parks and locations across town. In addition to full-day week-long camps, the flexible Super Playgrounds program makes stops at parks in many neighbourhoods. Depending on your child’s interests, you can choose from programs including Arts & Culture, Hockey & Skating, Leadership, Science & Nature, and Sports & Aquatics. There truly is something for everyone.

BY ANNELIESE LAWTON
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