The summer is down to its final month, but that’s just one more reason to go out and find fun things to do! Keep reading for the top family-friendly outings and festivals happening in Burlington this month.

Heritage Week – August 5^th – 12^th

If you’re looking to learn more about the beautiful city of Burlington, look no further than this full week of events celebrating Burlington’s heritage. From longtime residents to newcomers and visitors, Heritage Week has something for everyone. And the best part… all events are free! Love going on beachfront walks? Maybe the Waterfront Trail Walking Tour is right for you. Think you’re a trivia whiz? Then make sure to check out Burlington Trivia Night. Registration for all events is open until the day of each event or capacity is reached. Click here to view the full schedule of all 16 events.

Burlington Butter Tart Festival at Burlington Centre – August 12^th

(Burlington Butter Tart Festival 2022)

The first of three amazing food festivals in Burlington this month, this event is for anyone with a sweet tooth or anyone looking for a day to live out their guilty pleasure! Come enjoy one of Canada’s great gifts to the world (yes, butter tarts originated in Canada!) from both local merchants and vendors from across Ontario. Shop at the abundant artisan market, listen to live music, and observe the judges pick their favourites at the free festival. Be sure to register for the Butter Tart Festival Races in the morning to work up your appetite and a chance to win sweet treats! Donations to the Burlington Food Bank are encouraged and can be made upon arrival.

Burlington VegFest at Burloak Waterfront – August 19^th

Promoting the health and environmental benefits of a vegan diet, VegFest is a great place to explore vegan food while supporting local, small businesses an organizations. Open to all – vegan, vegetarian, or omnivore – come to the Burloak Waterfront for an afternoon of live music, kids activities, and plenty of delicious, 100% vegan food from sweet to savoury and everything in between! VegFest is free to register and donations to the Burlington Food Drive can be made here.

Royal Canadian International Circus at Burlington Centre – August 24^th – 27^th

If you’re searching for a summer activity with smiles and laughs, thrills and shrieks, then look no further than the Royal Canadian International Circus. On tour across Canada and the United States, the circus will be stopping in Burlington for four show dates during the last weekend of August. With three seating options to choose from to watch 10^th generation magicians, comedians, trapeze artists, daredevils, and more, this is something that your kids won’t want to miss. Click here for tickets to the circus led by ringmaster Joseph Dominik Bauer, former headliner for Cirque du Soleil, Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus, and more!

Canada’s Largest Ribfest at Spencer Smith Park – September 1^st – 4^th

Though not technically in August, you should definitely sneak in this festival right before school starts! If you’re a rib enthusiast or simply looking for a lively place for your kids to release any first day of school nerves over Labour Day weekend, this is the place to be! There will be 18 of the best “ribbers” from across North America, live music all day, dozens of kids games and activities, and plenty of food (even if ribs aren’t your thing!). And if you’re looking to make an impact, Ribfest is run by Rotary Burlington Lakeshore and proceeds are donated to a multitude of health, hunger, and humanitarian organizations around the community, as well as national initiatives.

Buy Circus Tickets Burlington| Royal Canadian International Circus 2023

From August 24th to August 27th at Burlington Centre, the Royal Canadian International Circus promises to be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for you and your family under the Big Top. Buy your Burlington circus tickets online today before the shows sell out!

The Big Top box office is open on all show days from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm to buy tickets in person, so long as the show has not yet been sold out by online ticket sales. You can also visit the Burlington Centre Guest Services to purchase tickets.