October is packed with reasons to get out and enjoy everything Hamilton and Burlington have to offer. From waterfront food festivals and outdoor concerts and everything in between, there is something happening almost every weekend.
Here are a few of our favourite local events worth adding to your calendar this October!
Telling Tales Festival
Telling Tales Festival returns to the Royal Botanical Gardens for its 18th year, bringing children’s literature to life with more than 70 presentations from Canadian authors, illustrators and storytellers. Families can enjoy free garden access, author signings, book swaps, live performances, interactive activities, local vendors and more throughout the festival.
Telling Tales Festival
October 3-4 | Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington
Hamilton Film Festival
The Hamilton Film Festival returns for its 21st year, bringing local, Canadian and international films to the city. The festival features shorts, features and documentaries across a variety of genres, celebrating both emerging filmmakers and returning festival alumni.
Hamilton Film Festival
October 16-25 | Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, Ancaster
You don’t have to wait for a specific event to create memories with friends and loved ones! For everyday fun, check out a few of our local guides below:
- The Top 5 Restaurants in Hamilton You NEED to Try
- A Local’s Guide to Hamilton
- Must-Visit Hamilton Hiking Trails
Burlington Travel Expo
The 1st Annual Burlington Travel Expo brings travel professionals and travellers together under one roof. If a winter getaway is on your mind, stop by to explore destinations, meet industry experts and discover ideas for your next trip.
Burlington Travel Expo
October 17| Burlington Lions Club, Burlington
Fall Garden & Mum Show
The Fall Floral Mum Show transforms the Gage Park Greenhouse into a colourful floral showcase featuring more than 200 varieties of chrysanthemums and over 100,000 blooms. Visitors can explore the themed displays, enjoy children’s activities and educational experiences. Our favourite part of the event? Grabbing a coffee and shopping for fresh flowers and bouquets at the Flower Market!
Fall Garden & Mum Show
October 17-25 | Gage Park Greenhouse, Hamilton
RBG After Dark: Pumpkin Trail
RBG’s Royal “Boo”tanical Gardens transforms Hendrie Park into a spooky Halloween experience for adults. Follow the glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns through the candlelit gardens while enjoying music, entertainment, pumpkin-themed activities and seasonal food and drinks.
RBG After Dark: Pumpkin Trail
October 22 | Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington
The Vintage Marketplace Fall
The Vintage Marketplace Fall 2026 brings more than 35 curated vendors to the Art Gallery of Burlington for a weekend of antique, retro and vintage finds. Browse clothing, furniture, home décor, collectibles and more while enjoying music, local drinks and food. Admission is $6 in advance or $8 at the door, with free entry for children 12 and under.
The Vintage Marketplace Fall
October 24 | Art Gallery of Burlington, Burlington
Are you ready to start house hunting in Hamilton, Burlington or the surrounding areas? The posts below are full of tips and insight:
- 5 Things To Know About Hamilton Real Estate
- Our Ultimate Handbook for First-Time Buyers
- Buying a House in Ontario Is a Team Effort
From Hamilton’s longtime traditions to Burlington’s classic events, October brings plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Keep this guide handy as you plan your weekends and check back for more local events happening throughout the area.
Event information may change, so be sure to confirm final schedules and weather updates with the event organizer before heading out.
Do you have questions about what it’s like to live in Hamilton or the surrounding areas? Our top agents in Hamilton & Burlington are happy to talk about the lifestyle you can expect and help you find the right home. Reach out today with any questions you have, or call 905-332-9223 to connect with our office.
