Summer is flying by, and we want to help you make the most of every sunny day! While there’s no shortage of events throughout the season, we have rounded up some of the most action-packed weekends that are well worth a stop at the marina. Tie up, head into the city, and discover the festivals, entertainment, and attractions that make Hamilton a summer destination worth exploring.
July 25-26
Visit HWM the weekend of July 25–26 for a celebration of history, culture, and the arts.
Saturday
- Women of War Festival (July 25-26): Walk 8 minutes from the marina to the HMCS Haida to learn about the vital contributions women made during the Second World War – at home, in industry, and through service in the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service.
- Hamilton Fringe Festival (July 15–26): Celebrate the performing arts at venues across the city. There’s something for everyone, from laugh-out-loud comedies and powerful dramas to exciting adventures and experimental productions.
- Hamilton Fiesta Extravaganza (July 25-26): Walk 20 minutes to Bayfront Park to celebrate Filipino culture. Try your hand at traditional games, while enjoying incredible dance performances.
Sunday (at no cost)
- Walking tour of Hamilton Cemetery: At 10:00am uncover stories of the War of 1812 during a free guided tour.
- Brott on the Waterfront: At 12:00pm head to the Pier 8 Waterfront Stage for a free public performance by the National Academy Orchestra of Canada as part of the Brott Music Festival.
August 1–2
Make plans to visit us over the August Long Weekend for an exciting mix of sports, music, and cultural celebrations!
Saturday
- Hamilton Tiger-Cats Game: At 3:00pm see the Ticats face off against the Calgary Stampeders at Hamilton Stadium, just an 11-minute Uber ride from the marina. Join local fans in the city’s signature cheer: “Oskee Wee Wee!”
- Continue the fun with your choice of:
- A Celtic concert at Theatre Aquarius presented by the Brott Music Festival.
- Or a lively evening at the Summer Salsa Fest at Pier 4 Park featuring salsa music and dance performances.
Sunday
- Festival of Friends (July 31-August 2): Take a quick 15-minute ride to Gage Park for one of Canada’s largest free outdoor music festivals. Browse arts and crafts vendors, sample offerings from local food trucks, and enjoy live performances from acclaimed artists including FEIST, Dallas Smith, Chantal Kreviazuk, and many more.
- Lucky Lion Night Market (July 31–August 2): As the sun sets, walk to Bayfront Park and celebrate Asian culture through delicious cuisine, live entertainment, local vendors, and the mesmerizing tradition of lion dancing.
August 21–23
Visit us the weekend of August 21–23 and find community and inclusion!
Friday
- HWM Boater Appreciation Event: We invite all Harbour West Marina boaters and transient guests to a night of complimentary food and drinks, live music, games, and great company, right here at the marina!
Saturday
- Hamilton Pride (August 21–22): Take a short walk to Pier 4 Park to celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The event features drag performances, local queer-owned vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
- Forge FC Match: Wrap up the day by watching Forge FC take on Pacific FC from British Columbia at Hamilton Stadium. Don your favourite orange shirt and cheer on the home team!
Sunday
Play the tourist and walk over to Pier 8 for two tours! Between tours grab lunch at William’s Fresh Café and a sweet treat from Waterfront Scoops’ ice cream or rollerblade at the outdoor rink.
- Harbour West Trolley Tour: Enjoy an 80-minute trolley tour all the way to Princess Point and back.
- Hamiltonian Harbour Tour: Cruise the port by boat for 50-minutes.
September 11–13
Visit us the weekend of September 11–13 for non-stop music! If you get hungry at any point stop off at Fisher’s Pier 4 Pub for cozy pub fare and delicious fish n’ chips, Grandad’s Donuts for dessert, and Collective Arts Brewery for a refreshment!
- Supercrawl: Walk up James Street North for this much awaited free three-day music festival. It fills the street with stages, theatres, art installations, fashion shows, dances, vendors, 50+ food trucks, beer gardens, and endless fun!
- Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire: Witness this show at TD Coliseum, featuring monster truck action, freestyle motocross, and spectacular stunts.
- Forge FC: End off your Saturday watching Forge face Ottawa.
If you’re travelling mid-week, there are still countless things to do! Pier 8 hosts free salsa dancing every Tuesday and jazz/blues performances every Thursday. Dundurn National Historic Site and the Royal Botanical Gardens are always just around the corner. The marina is surrounded by opportunities.
Please check out our Events Calendar and Attractions to learn more.