Burlington, Ontario August 2025 | Family Events & Activities Guide

Not-to-Miss Family Events in Burlington – August 2025

1. Halton Emancipation Celebration Festival

📍 Spencer Smith Park
📅 Saturday–Sunday, August 1–2, 2025 • Sat 1–11 PM, Sun (if extended)

• Celebrate Black history with live music, storyteller stages, arts & crafts, food vendors, vendor marketplace, and a kids’ fun zone.

• Free admission—bring lawn chairs for lakeside cultural performances.

2. Family-Friendly Movies Under the Stars

📍 Multiple Parks (e.g., Nelson Park, Central Park Bandshell)
📅 Thursdays in August (e.g., Aug 7, 21, 31)

• Outdoor screenings of beloved family films like The Parent Trap and The Goonies, under the night sky.

• Free family fun—bring blankets, snacks, and enjoy community vibes. 

3. Royal Canadian International Family Circus

📍 Burlington Centre (777 Guelph Line)
📅 Friday, August 21 – Sunday, September 1, 2025

• Multiple daily shows (afternoons & evenings) featuring circus performers, clowns, acrobats.

• Family‑friendly ticketed event and a guaranteed delight for kids.

4. Burlington VegFest

📍 Spencer Smith Park
📅 Saturday, August 16, 2025

• A lively celebration of plant-based living with vegan food stalls, eco‑product vendors, live music, and kids’ programming—a great way to eat, play, and learn sustainably. 

5. Burlington Latin Festival

📍 Central Park
📅 Saturday–Sunday, August 23–24, 2025

• Dance performances, cultural exhibits, Latin food vendors, and lively family zones with interactive workshops and activities.

6. Canada’s Largest Ribfest

📍 Spencer Smith Park Waterfront
📅 Friday, August 29 – Monday, September 1 (Labour Day Weekend)

• North America’s biggest ribfest featuring world‑class BBQ, live music, family fun zone, artisan stalls, and waterfront views. A delicious way to celebrate the holiday weekend. 

7. Art Walk 2025

📍 Burloak Waterfront Park
📅 Saturday, August 23, 2025 • 10 AM–4 PM

• Outdoor exhibit of local artists, interactive art activities for children, live music, and refreshment booths. A creative and inspiring family outing. 

8. Music from the Rooftop

📍 Museums of Burlington Rooftop
📅 Weekly through August (ends Aug 22, 2025)

• Enjoy sunset concerts featuring local musicians with panoramic Lake Ontario views—a relaxing, family-friendly musical interlude. 

🎯 Why August in Burlington Rocks for Families

• Culture & Celebration: Emancipation Festival, Latin Festival, and VegFest offer rich, diverse experiences.

• Outdoor Screenings: Movies Under the Stars bring the whole neighborhood together under the sky.

• Interactive & Hands-On: Art Walk, circus shows, and kids’ activity zones engage creative minds.

• Delicious Feasts: Ribfest and VegFest satisfy cravings and introduce global flavors.

📝 Planning Tips for an Enjoyable Family Month

• Plan Ahead: Ribfest and circus shows get crowded—arrive early or reserve seats online.

• Bring Essentials: For outdoor events, bring blankets, bug spray, water, hats, and comfortable seating.

• Budget Wisely: Most festivals and screenings are free; circus and Ribfest may require tickets or nominal fees.

• Pair with Nature: Combine events with visits to Spencer Smith Park, Brant Street Pier, or the Botanical Gardens for extra adventure.

• Stay Updated: Check Tourism Burlington’s website for last-minute date/venue updates. 

August 2025 in Burlington is jam-packed with family-friendly festivals, outdoor entertainment, art experiences, and culinary celebrations. Whether you're dancing at the Latin Festival, sampling ribs, catching a circus show, or enjoying free movies under the stars, there’s something to spark joy in every family member.