What’s Up in September: Top Burlington Events You Can’t Miss
September 2, 2025
Looking for ways to usher in the fall season? If you’re planning a weekend getaway or a local adventure, Burlington comes alive in September with visually stunning exhibits, lakeside runs, family fun, and cultural flair. Immerse yourself in sunny moments before autumn truly settles in. Here are the top events you’ll want on your calendar this September.
Top September Events in Burlington 2025
1. Burlington Terry Fox Run
Date: September 14, 2025 – Registration 8 a.m., Run at 9 a.m.
Address: Foot of Brant Street, in front of the Waterfront Hotel
Ticket Details: By donation
Website: Learn more
Every September, Burlington gathers along the lakeshore to continue Terry Fox’s legacy of hope and determination. With the stunning backdrop of Spencer Smith Park and Lake Ontario, the Terry Fox Run is more than a charity event, it’s a community tradition that brings people of all ages together. Runners, walkers, and supporters fill the waterfront with energy, making it one of the most heartfelt days of the year.
Fun Fact: Since its inception in 1981, the Terry Fox Run has raised over $850 million worldwide for cancer research.
2. Fleurs de Villes: Downton Abbey
Date: September 12–21, 2025 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m., last entry 4 p.m.)
Address: Hendrie Park, Royal Botanical Gardens
Ticket Details: Ticketed (time-entry)
Website: Learn more
Step back in time with this breathtaking floral show that blends fashion, art and storytelling. Stroll Hendrie Park’s winding pathways as you encounter larger-than-life floral installations inspired by the elegance of Downton Abbey. Set against the vibrant gardens of RBG, this event turns nature into art, giving visitors a picture-perfect day surrounded by blooms.
Fun Fact: This experience is officially Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC © 2025 Focus Features LLC.
3. Under the Harvest Moon with Rufus Wainwright
Date: September 17, 2025 – 5:30 p.m.
Address: Hendrie Park, Royal Botanical Gardens
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Enjoy an enchanting evening of music under the stars as Rufus Wainwright performs live at Royal Botanical Gardens. As the sun sets over Hendrie Park, the gardens transform into a magical open-air venue where every note floats in the September breeze. It’s the perfect way to embrace the changing seasons, blending world-class performance with Burlington’s natural beauty.
Fun Fact: Rufus Wainwright has performed at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall; this concert brings that global artistry right to Burlington’s backyard.
4. RBG After Dark: So Long Summer (19+)
Date: September 25, 2025 – 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. (last entry 9:30 p.m.)
Address: Rock Garden, Royal Botanical Gardens (Hamilton)
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Say farewell to summer in style at this adults-only evening in the Rock Garden. Enjoy drinks, live entertainment, and seasonal bites as lanterns light up winding garden paths. With music echoing through the trees and friends gathered under the stars, it’s a send-off to summer that captures Burlington’s vibrant social side.
Fun Fact: The Rock Garden was RBG’s very first garden, established in 1930, and has been a community favourite ever since.
5. Ontario Culture Days at Area 8
Date: September 28, 2025 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: Area 8 Conservation Area
Ticket Details: Free Admission
Website: Learn more
Celebrate creativity in the great outdoors at Ontario Culture Days, hosted this year at Burlington’s beautiful Area 8 Conservation Area. This free community event invites you to explore hands-on workshops, art installations, and cultural performances that highlight the rich diversity of local talent. With trails, lakeside views, and nature as the backdrop, it’s the perfect blend of Burlington’s natural beauty and vibrant arts scene.
Fun Fact: Did you know Culture Days is a nationwide initiative, with thousands of free arts and culture events happening across Canada every fall? Burlington’s setting makes it extra special.
6. Magic Men Australia: Larger Than Life World Tour 2025 (featuring Will Parfitt)
Date: September 13, 2025 – 8 p.m.
Address: Burlington Performing Arts Centre
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Get ready for an electrifying night out when Magic Men Australia brings its world tour to Burlington. Featuring Will Parfitt, this high-energy performance combines choreography, music, and charisma for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. With downtown Burlington’s restaurants and nightlife steps away, it’s the perfect excuse for a fun night out.
Fun Fact: Will Parfitt has amassed millions of fans on social media, making him one of the most recognized entertainers in the tour.
7. Art Gallery of Burlington Exhibition
Russna Kaur, The delicate boundary between the past and the willow, 2025 Acrylic, sawdust, coloured sand, and bridal mesh on linen and canvas. 48” x 54” Courtesy of the artist
Date: September 20, 2025
Address: Art Gallery of Burlington
Ticket Details: Free Admission
Website: Learn more
Discover thought-provoking art and creative expression at the Art Gallery of Burlington. The gallery showcases innovative works from both Canadian and local artists, giving visitors a chance to see how Burlington’s creative scene connects to global conversations in the art world. Nestled along the lakeshore, the AGB is also a wonderful place to take in a quiet afternoon of culture.
Fun Fact: The Art Gallery of Burlington is the seventh most-visited public art gallery in Ontario.
8. Bronte Creek Harvest Festival
Date: September 27–28, 2025 – 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Address: Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Ticket Details: Park Admission Applies
Website: Learn more
Step back in time at Bronte Creek’s historic Spruce Lane Farm during this heritage-inspired fall festival. Families can enjoy apple cider pressing, heritage demonstrations, tractor wagon rides and even the chance to pick their own pumpkin. With crisp air, seasonal treats, and the charm of a 124-year-old farmhouse, this festival captures everything we love about autumn.
Fun Fact: Bronte Creek Provincial Park is one of only a few provincial parks located within an urban boundary.
9. Heritage Fibre Festival
Date: September 27, 2025 – 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Address: Ireland House Museum
Ticket Details: Ticketed
Website: Learn more
Celebrate Burlington’s heritage at this hands-on festival where traditional textile arts come alive. Watch demonstrations of spinning, weaving, and dyeing, and even try your hand at some of the crafts. Held at the historic Ireland House, the event combines creative skill with the stories of early Burlington life.
Fun Fact: Ireland House Museum is one of Burlington’s oldest heritage properties, dating back to 1835.
10. Appleby Line Street Festival
Date: September 21, 2025 – 1 to 5 p.m.
Address: Appleby Line between Fairview and New Street
Ticket Details: Free Admission
Website: Learn more
This lively community festival transforms Appleby Line into a pedestrian-only street filled with nearly 150 vendors, a buzzing food truck alley, live music and a kid zone packed with activities for families. It’s a true neighbourhood celebration where you can shop local, sample delicious eats, and connect with Burlington’s warm community spirit.
Fun Fact: The Appleby Line Street Festival is run entirely by local volunteers, bringing neighbours together since 2012 and showcasing the very best of Burlington’s east end charm.
Plan Your September Escape
September in Burlington is packed with experiences; from harvest festivals and waterfront runs to concerts under the stars and floral displays at the RBG. It’s the perfect time to enjoy crisp air, lakeside views, and the city’s welcoming community spirit. If you’re here for a day or the whole month, you’ll find plenty of ways to make it unforgettable.
For more details and even more September events, visit our Events Calendar.
