Hamilton Day to return in November

A one-day event aimed at bolstering Hamilton's local economy is slated to become an annual celebration of business and the arts.

In a press release Wednesday, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce announced that Hamilton Day - which was revived in 2021, a century after its creation - will be returning on Nov. 5.

Created in October 1931 - in the midst of the Great Depression - the original event aimed to boost the local economy, as well as spirits, in Steeltown. Hosted just once, the chamber described the day as symbolic of a rallying spirit in the face of adversity."

At the time, The Spectator wrote that the Oct. 28 celebration was a great success. Retailers reported record-selling volumes across the city, while theatres, restaurants and hotels were bustling with business.

The event was resurrected last year in an effort to support local businesses across the city amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moving forward, Hamilton Day will take place on the first Saturday in November each year and will expand its focus to also put a spotlight on the city's arts and culture sector, according to the chamber.

In a statement, chamber CEO and president Greg Dunnett said the outpouring of support" for the event last year inspired the organization to make the celebration an annual occurrence.

Each year, the event will get bigger and better, evolving to showcase the best of our community," said Dunnett.

This year's event will include markets across the city's Business Improvement Areas (BIA), interactive activities such as cooking classes and demonstrations as well as music and art showcases.

More than one thousand local businesses are expected to take part in the celebration.

Registration for Hamilton Day is now open. All local independent businesses, such as cafes, bars, theatres, fitness studios, personal services and florists, are invited to take part.

Residents are encouraged to support their local favourites as well as be a tourist in your community" and try a new business or shop that recently opened.

For more information, visit HamiltonDay.ca.

Fallon Hewitt is a reporter at The Spectator. fhewitt@thespec.com