What's on this weekend in Hamilton, July 25-27, from final Fringe shows to a Bayfront fiesta

Hamilton's summer calendar is in full swing with festivals, theatre and concerts this weekend.

Whether you're looking to explore indie shows, enjoy a cultural street party or spend time outdoors with family, here's a list to help you plan the days ahead.

Hamilton Fiesta Extravaganza

The annual Fiesta Extravaganza is coming to Bayfront Park from July 25 to 27.

The free, three-day festival celebrates Filipino heritage with food vendors, cultural performances, a night market and live entertainment — including music and dance reflecting both Filipino and broader multicultural traditions. Singer Dessa performs Saturday at 7 p.m. and Joross Gamboa performs Sunday at 5 p.m. 

Outdoor pools

Outdoor pools have been open since June 27, with daily drop-in swims available through Sept. 1, weather permitting. Locations include:

• Ancaster Lions Outdoor Pool.
• Birge Outdoor Pool.
• Chedoke Outdoor Pool.
• Coronation Outdoor Pool.
• Green Acres Outdoor Pool.
• Inch Park Outdoor Pool.
• Parkdale Outdoor Pool.
• Rosedale Outdoor Pool.
• Victoria Park Outdoor Pool.
• Walker Outdoor Pool.

Wading pools

Families with young children can beat the heat at supervised wading pools. Locations include:

• Andy Warburton Wading Pool.
• Dundas Driving Park 
• Gage Park. 
• J.C. Beemer Park.
• Jesse Patterson (Huntington Recreation Centre).
• Powell Park. 

Wading pools, except Dundas Driving Park, are closed during city-declared extended heat warnings.

Hamilton Fringe Festival

This Sunday, the Hamilton Fringe Festival wraps up its 21st year.

Performances are taking place at multiple venues, featuring comedy, drama, cabaret, and experimental shows — with options for all ages. Most tickets start at around $14. There are also some free performances. This weekend is your last chance to catch what organizers call "Hamilton's boldest stage."

Brott Music Festival: Broadway

The Brott Music Festival continues this summer with a big this weekend.

On Saturday, the orchestra will perform Broadway hits — from Phantom of the Opera to Hamilton — in a show called "Broadway Dreams." The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at Theatre Aquarius. Tickets start at $25.

The festival runs for several weeks over the summer, with performances at various venues. 

Live Band Karaoke Party at Ooey Gooey's

On Friday, July 26, karaoke fans can take centre stage with a full backing band at Ooey Gooey's at 107 George St. 

Hosted by The Approximators, the live band karaoke party invites guests to sing classic rock, pop, and indie favourites — backed by real instruments. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with the first singers hitting the stage around 8 p.m. Admission is $10.

Wonders of Raptors Tour

If you're looking for something a little more wild just a short drive away, Mountsberg Conservation Area, northwest of Burlington, is offering its "Wonders of Raptors" show.

The experience includes guided interactions with birds of prey like hawks and owls. Sessions are available by appointment and run through August. Tickets are required in advance.

Monthly Abhishekam at Hindu Samaj Temple

The Hindu Samaj of Hamilton and Region is hosting its monthly Abhishekam (anointment ceremony) for Lord Venkateshwara on Saturday, July 27, at 10 a.m. at 6297 Twenty Road East.

The ceremony is a traditional practice but is open to all. 

The 90-minute ritual includes traditional offerings, chants, and prayers, such as Suprabhata Seva, Panchamruta Abhishekam, and Mangal Aarti. Devotees are invited to bring garlands, flowers, milk, fruits, and Prasadam as part of their offerings. The ceremony will conclude with the distribution of Tirtha and Prasad.

Families interested in sponsoring the Abhishekam or contributing items can contact the temple directly.

Free AGH, farmers' market and more

• Hamilton Farmers' Market is open Saturday inside Jackson Square.

• Art Gallery of Hamilton's summer exhibits are on. Entrance to the AGH is free for the rest of the summer during regular business hours.

• Dundurn Castle hosts a children's garden pop-up event on Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m.