Things to do this weekend in Hamilton: Jan. 24 to Jan. 26

With the weekend around the corner, why not round up your friends and family for a fun outing? Hamilton has an exciting lineup of activities to shake off the winter monotony. From cozy movie screenings and a vibrant pop culture market to an outdoor adventure expo and a specialty coffee event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Here’s what’s going on from Jan. 24 to Jan. 26:

January 24

Hamilton Psychic & Crystal Fair

Experience the mystic at Hamilton’s Psychic & Crystal Fair, featuring some of Canada’s top psychics, mediums, astrologers, energy healing technology, aura photography and rune reading. Explore a wide selection of beautiful crystals, handmade jewelry, tea leaf and palm readings.

Where: 1520 Stone Church Rd. E. (Carmen’s Event Centre)
When: 

• Jan. 24: 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Jan. 25: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Jan. 26: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Cost: $10 (children 12 and under free)

Kooshkopayiw: Awakening

Explore the powerful works of the Kooshkopayiw Métis Artist Collective at this captivating art exhibition. Featuring pieces by artists Patti Belanger, Kristy Cameron, Graham Paradis, Roxanne Shank, and George Simard, this exhibit celebrates Métis art and heritage. Supported by the Métis Nation of Ontario Cultural Commission.

Where: 55 York Blvd. (Central Library – York Gallery)
When: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Family Stay and Play

After storytime, families with children up to five years of age can enjoy a social and playtime session designed to connect and engage.

Where: 955 King St. W. (Westdale Branch)
When: 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Cost: Free

Collage Art Workshop: Mixed Media Collage and Painting

Explore your creative side in this in-person mixed media collage and painting workshop in Hamilton. Use various materials like watercolour, acrylic, oil pastel, charcoal, pen, ink, texture gel, shell, fabric and canvas. Suitable for all levels.

Where: 90 Pleasant Ave. (York Art Studio)
When: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $100

The Room Next Door – Movie Screening

Winner of the Golden Lion at the 2024 Venice Film Festival, this film by Pedro Almodovar marks his first English-language feature. It follows Ingrid (Julianne Moore), an autofiction novelist, and Martha (Tilda Swinton), a war reporter, as they reconnect after years apart under unexpected and touching circumstances.

Where: 1014 King St. W. (The Westdale)
When: 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Adult; $14.25 Senior/Student/Child: $11.25

Imagination Stations (Ages 4 to 12)

Use your imagination and discover what you can create with our Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STREAM) kits and educational toys.

Where: 777 Highway 8 (Stoney Creek Branch – Children’s Area)
When: 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Auditions for BIG FISH at HTI

Hamilton Theatre Inc. is holding auditions for its upcoming production of BIG FISH. This non-Equity, volunteer production welcomes submissions from actors of all genders, ethnicities, and abilities.

Where: 140 MacNab St. N. (Hamilton Theatre Inc. Studio)
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Additional Details:

• Auditions include two contrasting musical selections and a cold read.
• Dance Calls and Callbacks are scheduled for Jan. 25.
• Rehearsals begin shortly after auditions and will happen on two weeknights and Sunday afternoons.

Dancing with Your Inner Child Ecstatic Dance

Connect with your inner child through an evening of playful and expressive movement guided by Mothra Shadow Work and DJ Mr. Joyful.

Where: 126 James St. N., 3rd Floor (Studio G)
When: 7 p.m. – midnight
Cost: From $31.59

The Substance Movie Screening

A fading celebrity turns to a black-market drug, a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself, but discovers that every miracle has its price. This is an 18+ movie.

Where: 1014 King St. W. (The Westdale Theatre)
When: 9:15 p.m. – 10:15 p.m.
Cost: Senior and students $11.25; Adults $14.25 (HST and fees included)

One Encanto Fridays Party

Join the ultimate Friday night experience featuring vibrant cocktails, top DJs, and a mix of Latin, Top 40 and house beats for an electrifying evening.

Where: 1 Duke St. (One Duke Tavern)
When: 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Cost: From $0

Pro Comedy Show

Enjoy a hilarious night of stand-up comedy featuring top-notch comedians like Chris Bishop, Val Cole, Jim Ordowich, Wes Prop Man, Ryan Visser, host Greg Dobroski and headliner Doug Nagy.

Where: 154 James St. S. (Centre for Talking Arts)
When: 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Doors at 7 p.m.)
Cost: From $17.31

January 25

Hamilton Adventure Expo

Immerse yourself in the thrill of outdoor exploration at the Hamilton Adventure Expo. This winter event includes special guests like adventurer Adam Shoalts, live music from artists like Heather Valley, vendors, outdoor campfires and food trucks—creating a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Where: 630 Trinity Rd. S. (Ancaster Fairgrounds)
When: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: $20 per person. Kids under 10 are free.

NSG 6ix Live In Hamilton

Catch NSG 6ix live on stage, performing his top hits alongside featured artists like Lul Kirk, Siin6ix and Big Swi$h.

Where: 56 Hess St. S. (The Doors)
When: 8 p.m.
Cost: $7.50

Wellness at Whitehern: A Historic Mental Health Tour

Learn about the McQuestens’ experiences navigating mental illness through the life of Margaret Edna, the youngest McQuesten daughter. Using archival resources, the tour explores family mental health experiences, coping mechanisms and support systems. It also addresses caregiver fatigue, societal stigma and access to resources in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The tour concludes with a wellness activity. Note: This tour includes mature topics.

Where: 41 Jackson St. W. (Whitehern Historic House & Garden)
When: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Cost: $15 per person. Pre-registration required.

The Pop Culture Market

Explore all things pop culture at this fun-filled event, from vintage comics to Funko Pop figures.

Where: 20 Land St. (The Pop Culture Market)
When: 3 p.m.
Cost: Free admission

Parasite Movie Screening

Kick off the Westdale Theatre’s 90th-anniversary repertory series with Bong Joon-ho’s Best Picture and Palme d’Or-winning masterpiece.

Where: 1014 King St. W. (The Westdale Theatre)
When: 9 p.m.
Cost: Children (under 17) $11.25; Adults $14.25; Senior: $11.25; Students $11.25

January 26

Hamilton Specialty Coffee Expo & Market

Coffee lovers, mark your calendars for the Hamilton Specialty Coffee Expo & Market hosted by Just Java. Warm up this winter at Bridgeworks while sipping local coffee and tea.

Where: 200 Caroline St. N. (Bridgeworks)
When: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: From $24.16

In The Dead of Winter Beer Dinner & Celebration

This special event features five courses paired with five beers, served at family-style tables right in the heart of the brewery.

Where: 107 James St. N. (Merit Brewing)
When: 6 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Hamilton Wedding Expo Winter 2025

Plan your perfect wedding at the Hamilton Wedding Expo! With over $15,000 in prizes, including a $1,000 wedding cash draw and an all-inclusive honeymoon to the Dominican Republic, this event is your one-stop destination for wedding planning.

Where: 1555 Upper Ottawa St. (Michelangelo Banquet Centre)
When: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Free or VIP Admission for $27.96

Woodworking – DIY Couch Table

Build a functional piece of furniture for your home in this hands-on woodworking workshop. All tools, supplies and instructions are included.

Where: 637 Parkdale Ave. N. (Art Aggregate)
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $121.85

—Cover photo via tourismhamilton.com