There’s a two-week festival near Toronto with live shows and winter activities

Hamilton Winterfest kicks off its two-week celebration this weekend, highlighting the best events around the community. Just a drive away from Toronto, if you’re looking for a chilly yet thrilling winter experience, here’s what to know.

Starting Jan. 31 and running until Feb. 16, 2026, the City of Hamilton will showcase a variety of signature and community events “designed to engage, entertain, and inspire residents and visitors alike.”

Each day will see a different celebration, from musical performances to drag shows, dance parties, and more.

And midway through the festival, on Feb. 8, 2026, Gourley Park will host the free 41st annual Winterfest in the Park from noon to 2 p.m. According to organizers, you can expect horse-drawn wagon rides, log sawing, nail driving, other winter-related games and activities.

Take a picture with Chimo, the Winterfest mascot, too!

And of course, food and refreshments will be available for purchase, but bring some cash as that will be the only form of payment accepted.

As for what else is happening in the city, we’ve grabbed a few we think you should check out during Hamilton Winterfest.

Hamilton Winterfest events

Haunted Winter

Catch a haunting dance, drag and live performances of this promenade-style show at Studio Ethereal.

“Angela Josephine, the creator of The Haunting House, is bringing the Halloween vibes to Winterfest 2026,” reads the listing. “For those of you who need a dose of spooky before next Halloween, while celebrating the big, bright and beautiful winter in Hamilton.”

When: Jan. 31, 2026
Time: 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Where: Studio Ethereal – 126 Catharine St. N., Hamilton
Cost: $12.50 to $32.50

Mosaic’s Midwinter Bash

Join in on the fun at the Midwinter Bash at Mosaic. It marks the start of Hamilton Winterfest, but rather than standing in the snow, you’ll get to enjoy the warmth, some island music, and a list of tropical cocktails at the bar. Tropical shirts are encouraged.

When: Jan. 31, 2026
Time: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Bar Mosaic — 431 Barton St. E., Hamilton, Ont.

Frost Queens

Frost Queens return for its fourth year, featuring some of Hamilton’s hottest drag performers and Canada’s Drag Race star Velma Jones.

Other performances include Karma Kameleon, Chimera, Hexe Noire, and Baby Butcher. This is a 19+ event.

When: Feb. 7, 2026
Time: 5 p.m. (all ages), 8 p.m. (19+ show)
Where: Theatre Aquarius — 190 King William St., Hamilton, Ont.
Cost: $27.50

Home, I’m Darling

“A sharply satirical comedy that flips gender roles and nostalgia on their head,” reads the event listing. “Set in a perfectly curated 1950s-style home with a Pinterest-perfect aesthetic, this play is equal parts glossy fantasy and sobering reality check.”

When: Dates vary (calendar)
Time: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Where: Garstin Centre for the Arts — 37 Market St. S., Dundas, Ont.
Cost: $27+

Happy Feet “Penguin Party” at The Westdale!

What’s more winter than Happy Feet? Join in on the fun with Happy Feet at The Westdale and catch a special screening of the beloved flick. There will be a themed photo station, and if you dress as a penguin, you get a free small popcorn!

When: Feb. 7 and 8, 2026
Time: 1 p.m.
Where: The Westdale — 1014 King St. W.
Cost: $9.25

Recent Posts:

A new intimate Nordic spa just opened in Ontario
U of T was named best Canadian university in a new prestigious ranking