What you can (and can’t do) this weekend in Hamilton
The first weekend of January is upon us.
With the latest restrictions that came into effect this week, there just might be more things you can't do in Hamilton than you can.
Museums, art galleries, botanical gardens, gyms and cinemas are all closed. Indoor gatherings must be limited to five people, and there is no indoor dining at restaurants, unless they're flouting the bylaws. Takeout only.
There's a chance of flurries or rain, with a weekend high of 2 C, so dress appropriately if you leave the house, which you probably should, if only to clear the old' noggin.
Here are a few things you can do from the comfort of your home and some to get you out and about.
I know that place!
Did you know there were 152 productions that filmed in the city last year? Stream some of those TV shows and movies with your vaccinated friends and try to spot Hamilton's starring role. There's the remake of Stephen King's Firestarter" for some spooky vibes and Murdoch Mysteries" for those who aspire to solve a murder.
Can you spot the Hammer?
- Netflix: The Umbrella Academy," Locke and Key," Slumberland," Painkiller" and Guillermo del Toro Presents 12 After Midnight."
- Apple TV Plus: Five Days at Memorial," See" and Ghostwriter."
- Amazon Prime: The Boys"; Hulu: The Handmaid's Tale"; Paramount Plus: The Mayor of Kingstown."
- Showcase: The Handmaid's Tale" and Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol"
Missing that movie theatre energy? Bring the cinema to you by ordering popcorn from your local theatre. The Playhouse Cinema on Sherman Avenue offers a popcorn pickup every Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., so you can satiate that salty craving whilst supporting a small business.
Game day
The Hamilton Bulldogs are home this weekend, though fans won't be able to attend games in person. Friday night sees the Bulldogs lace up against the Niagara IceDogs at 7 p.m., while Saturday afternoon, they take on the Ottawa 67s. Find the game live on Cable 14 and cheer on the home team from your couch.
Festival of lights
It's the last week to take in the glowing lights of tradition at Spencer Smith Park. Burlington's Festival of Lights wraps up at midnight Saturday. Stroll over to the free event after 4 p.m. and enjoy a rather colourful, distanced amble along the waterfront.
Do some learning
Curious about how our furry friends survive in winter? RBG at Home aims to teach all ages more about animal life. Check out this virtual tour that explains changing animal behaviour, from bird migration to shelter for insects.
Norfolk County Recreation is offering a virtual after school little chefs program for 9- to 12-year-olds interested in getting hands-on in the kitchen. Sessions are available throughout January starting next Thursday. There is a registration fee of $4.
Try something different
The new year is all about the new you, so why not challenge your sense of self by branching beyond your comfort zone. For the creature of habit, try ordering takeout from a local eatery that specializes in a cuisine you've never tried. Restaurants and other small businesses need all the support they can get right now. Not an adventurous eater? What about trying out a new walking route? Sometimes the smallest thing can give us a change of perspective, the thrill of the hill.
Get vaccinated
If you're missing any of your shots, the GO-VAXX bus will be at the Lincoln Community Centre Sunday. It's by appointment only, and booking will open Saturday at 8 a.m. First, second and booster doses will be offered, as well as pediatric Pfizer shots for kids five to 11 years old. To book, visit covid19.ontariohealth.ca.
Want the option to walk-in? For those 50 years and older looking for a booster, the Centre on Barton is running a clinic from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Just roll in, join the correct line and wait your turn.
Delaney Caulfield is a Hamilton-based web editor at The Spectator. Reach her via email: dcaulfield@thespec.com