The Ultimate Burlington Host’s Guide 2025: How to Wow Your Holiday Guests
November 20, 2025
The holidays bring people together and create the perfect opportunity to share the places you love most. Hosting in Burlington is especially joyful because it truly is a city like no other. Twinkling waterfront lights, cozy cafés, and unique local shops help make every visit feel inviting and memorable.
This guide gives you simple ideas for easy hosting, meaningful outings, and holiday activities that show your guests the best of Burlington.
Table of Contents
Holiday Activities & Events: Where to Take Guests for That “Wow” Moment
Guests seeing Burlington for the first time or returning home for the season will find plenty to enjoy.
RBG Winter Wonders
Take a magical stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens. Thousands of lights transform Hendrie Park into an enchanting winter experience that feels perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves holiday sparkle.
Burlington Festival of Lights at Spencer Smith Park
Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate from a downtown café, and walk along the waterfront as glowing displays light up the shoreline. Lake Ontario creates a beautiful backdrop for an evening out.
See Details Here
Holiday Performances at BPAC
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre fills the season with festive productions. Concerts, musicals, and holiday shows add a special touch to any visit.
See Upcoming Performances Here
Outdoor Winter Fun
Fresh air and snowy adventures make winter in Burlington extra fun. Take a waterfront walk at Spencer Smith Park, enjoy skating at Rotary Centennial Pond, or head to one of the city’s scenic tobogganing hills. Check the City of Burlington website for official skating and tobogganing locations.
Take This Itinerary With You
Discover the magic of the season with the Festive Burlington Experiences Pass, a free mobile pass that gathers Burlington’s most festive activities in one place. Guests can check in at attractions and explore light displays, BPAC holiday performances, winter trails, skating, skiing at Glen Eden, and tobogganing. There is something for every visitor to enjoy this holiday season.
*Please note: The Burlington Festive Experiences Pass highlights events and experiences but does not serve as an admission ticket. Regular entry fees (if applicable) and ticket rates still apply.
Get the Festive Burlington Experiences Pass and start exploring!
Welcome Your Guests Like a Burlington Local
A thoughtful welcome helps guests feel at home right away. A simple basket of locally roasted coffee, handmade treats, or small Burlington-made items creates a warm first impression. A Downtown Burlington Gift Card also gives guests the freedom to explore local shops and restaurants.
Gift ideas and local makers can be found on our Shopping Page, filled with boutiques, markets, and creative finds that highlight Burlington’s spirit.
Holiday Takeout or Dine-In
Cooking, wrapping, and planning can fill up your schedule quickly. Burlington’s dining scene offers easy ways to simplify your hosting. Warm cafés, brunch spots, bakeries, and restaurants with take-home meals all help create memorable meals without extra stress.
Start the morning with pastries and coffee, enjoy a cozy brunch, or pick up chef-prepared dishes that keep entertaining simple.
Explore more seasonal recommendations.
Not Enough Room at Home? Here’s Where Guests Can Stay
Extra guests often mean extra planning. Burlington’s hotels provide a comfortable home base with easy access to the waterfront, downtown, and major attractions. Your visitors can relax while staying close to everything they want to explore.
Browse our accommodation options and Book Their Stay to help guests settle in with comfort and convenience.
Wrap-Up: Sharing the Spirit of the Season
Holiday hosting in Burlington feels special because the community creates moments filled with warmth, charm, and joy. Light displays, local restaurants, festive shops, and unique experiences all help guests see the city in a memorable way.
Pour yourself a warm drink, enjoy the season, and let Burlington make your hosting experience easier and more meaningful.
Getting Here Is Easy With GO Transit
Traveling to Burlington can be simple and stress-free. Suggest GO Transit to friends and family who want to avoid traffic and parking. The ride is comfortable and includes FREE WiFi so visitors can relax on the way.
Savings options include the One-Day Weekend Pass, Weekday Group Passes, and free rides for kids 12 and under. These choices make travel easy for families and groups.
