What’s Up in October: Top Burlington Events You Can’t Miss
September 26, 2025
October in Burlington is a month of cozy sweaters, fall colours, and festive community spirit. From family-friendly pumpkin trails to live concerts and comedy nights, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. We’ve rounded up the top 10 October events in Burlington, complete with insider tips and local charm to help you make the most of this magical month.
Top October Events in Burlington 2025
1. Mountsberg Spooktacular Halloween
Date: Weekends, October 3 – 26 | 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: Mountsberg Conservation Area
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
One of Burlington’s favourite fall traditions, Mountsberg’s Spooktacular Halloween transforms the conservation area into a glowing forest of jack-o-lanterns, lantern-lit trails, and family fun. With wagon rides, games, and plenty of seasonal treats, it’s the perfect mix of spooky and cozy for all ages.
Best part: Don’t miss the glowing pumpkin patch, it’s a selfie spot like no other. Make sure to tag us @tourismburlington and use #BurlON to share your fall fun!
2. Falling for Burlington Downtown
Date: October 4 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Address: Burlington City Hall
Ticket Details: Free
Website: Learn more
Downtown Burlington invites you to celebrate the season with a free afternoon of fall fun for all ages. From tasty bites along the Promenade to games and photo ops in Civic Square, the event showcases the charm of over 400 local businesses. New this year is a sensory zone, offering a calming space with multi-sensory activities.
Best part: Wander Brant Street and Village Square for treats, shopping, and cozy autumn vibes, all in the heart of Burlington’s downtown.
3. The Great Pumpkin Trail at RBG
Date: October 16–19 & 24–26 | Time-ticketed from 5:30 p.m.
Address: Royal Botanical Gardens, Hendrie Park
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
A can’t-miss fall event, the Great Pumpkin Trail invites families to explore Hendrie Park after dark, where hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins light the paths. Add in live entertainment and seasonal activities, and you’ve got one of the most magical nights of October.
Fun fact: This year, pumpkin trail will feature over 10,000 real pumpkins on display!
4. Burlington Centre Lions Farmers’ Market
Date: Ongoing through October | Wed, Fri & Sat, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Address: Burlington Centre
Ticket Details: Free
Website: Learn more
Running since 1959, this farmers’ market is a beloved Burlington tradition and a must-stop for fresh, local flavours. Shop seasonal produce, baked goods, honey, and more while connecting with growers and makers from across Halton.
Tip: Arrive early for the best pick of seasonal apples and pies.
5. Telling Tales Festival
Date: October 4 & 5 | Time-ticketed from 9:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Address: Royal Botanical Gardens, Hendrie Park
Ticket Details: Free (RSVP required)
Website: Learn more
Taking place at the Royal Botanical Gardens, this two-day festival celebrates the power of storytelling through books, music, and live performances. Families will love meeting Canadian authors and illustrators, sparking a love of reading in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Did you know? Telling Tales began in 2009 right here in Burlington and has since become one of Canada’s premier children’s literature festivals.
6. Iron Willed: Women in STEM
Date: Opens October 4 | Runs until March 29, 2026
Address: Museums of Burlington
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
This museum exhibition shines a spotlight on Canadian women who have broken barriers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Inspiring and educational, it’s a chance to discover the stories behind the innovators shaping our past, present, and future.
Here’s one to think on: Which innovations shaping our future are being led by women today?
7. James Barker Band: Bud Light Buckle Up Tour
Date: October 22 | 7:30 p.m.
Address: Burlington Performing Arts Centre
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre welcomes Canadian country music stars James Barker Band for a night of high-energy hits. Expect a lively atmosphere, great acoustics, and an intimate setting that makes every seat feel close to the action.
Insider tip: Grab dinner at one of Brant Street’s cozy pubs before the show; live music and local dining make the perfect combo.
8. Michael Jackson’s Thriller – Live Tribute
Date: October 24 | 7:30 p.m.
Address: Burlington Performing Arts Centre
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Nothing says October like Thriller! This tribute show brings Michael Jackson’s iconic hits to life on stage, complete with dazzling dance numbers that are perfect for Halloween season fun.
Best moment: The iconic zombie dance number that will have you singing along.
9. Rick Mercer: Talking to Canadians
Date: October 28 & 29 | 7:30 p.m.
Address: Burlington Performing Arts Centre
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Canadian comedy legend Rick Mercer brings his sharp wit and storytelling to Burlington with two back-to-back shows. Expect plenty of laughs, clever observations, and uniquely Canadian humour that makes this a must-see performance.
Local insight: Shows at BPAC often sell out, book early if you want a good seat!
10. RBG After Dark: Pumpkin Trail (19+)
Date: October 23 | 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Address: Royal Botanical Gardens, Hendrie Park
Ticket Details: Ticketed, IDs are required
Website: Learn more
For one night only, Royal Botanical Gardens hosts an adults-only version of its famous Pumpkin Trail. Stroll through lantern-lit gardens, sip seasonal cocktails, and enjoy live entertainment in a truly unforgettable after-dark experience.
Best part: Sip on a fall-inspired drink while wandering lantern-lit trails, a truly unique Burlington evening.
Plan Your October in Burlington
This October, Burlington comes alive with lantern-lit pumpkin trails, festive family gatherings, live music, and comedy shows that guarantee plenty of laughs. If you’re strolling downtown with a pumpkin spice latte in hand, exploring the trails at RBG, or catching a show at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre, every event offers a chance to experience the city’s unique mix of lakeside charm and community spirit.
