Recreation Newsletter - January 2026

Cogeco Neighbourhood Rinks

Enjoy the magic of winter right in your neighbourhood. Our outdoor neighbourhood rinks are ready for the season, offering free, casual skating at parks across the city. It is a great way to stay active, enjoy the fresh air, and spend time with family, friends, and neighbours.

Before heading out, be sure to check the current open or closed status of each rink. While the information is updated regularly, weather and ice conditions can change quickly. Always follow all onsite signage and directions at the rink, as onsite information takes priority over what is shown online.

Bundle up, sharpen your skates, and make the most of the winter season close to home.

Youth Framework survey

A Youth Framework is a plan that guides how the City supports, listens to, and works with young people. It makes sure youth have a real voice in shaping programs, spaces, and opportunities that matter to them.

The Framework outlines the City’s vision, values, and priorities for youth engagement, inclusion, and development. It aims to create equitable opportunities and meaningful experiences that empower young people to thrive and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive community.

If you are a youth in Burlington or have youth in your household, let us hear your feedback.

Burlington Arts and Culture Grant

The City of Burlington is inviting artists to apply for the 2026 Burlington Arts and Culture Grant. This is an annual grant program that provides $75,000  to local artists, multicultural groups and arts and culture organizations to foster creativity and enrich how Burlington residents experience and engage with arts and culture.

Applications will be open Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, accepted until noon on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

There are two information sessions; in-person information session at City Hall 426 Brant St., Room 247 on Jan. 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. or a virtual information session on Jan. 14 from 7 to 8 p.m.

Book free community rooms

The Free and Pay What You Can room booking program was introduced in late 2024 for the community to take advantage of unused community room space. The rooms are available for free to use during non-peak hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and available at Tansley Woods, Brant Hills and Alton Community Centres.

Two options are available to the community:

1. Free On-the-Spot Bookings: Walk in, check availability, and use a room—no reservations needed.
2. Pay What You Can: Book up to 7 days in advance with a minimum of $4/hour insurance fee.

The rooms are available for personal or community use, including meetings, light activity, book clubs, casual fitness, and more.

Adult 55+ Active Living Fair

Join us for a welcoming community event focused on staying active, connected, and informed. Explore a wide range of services, resources, and opportunities created with older adults in mind, including home care, volunteer opportunities, and regional and municipal support. Connect with friends and neighbours while enjoying a free warm lunch from our Bistro in a friendly, relaxed setting. We look forward to celebrating active living together.

Event schedule

• Tradeshow: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Educational Seminars: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Bistro Service: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Music lessons

Did you know music lessons are available at the Music Centre all year long and you can register at any time of the year? Learn a new instrument or perfect your skills on your current instrument. Flute, clarinet, saxophone, percussion (drums and mallet) and piano lessons are available. Members of the Burlington Teen Tour Band and Jr. Redcoats will receive a 15% discount on music lessons booked through the City of Burlington.

Cogeco Skating at the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond

In the month of January and part of February, Cogeco will be offering themed DJ music on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoon.  Throwback Thursdays will take you back to your favourite decades and on Saturdays will play a variety of pop tracks from current chart hits to nostalgic classics.  Enjoy a free hot chocolate and sugar cookie while you are there.

Skate Lending is available on-site during this time. Skate sizes and styles are subject to availability, first come, first served. Skate aids are also available.

Be sure to check ice conditions at 905-335-7738, ext. 8587, before coming to make sure the Pond is open.

Passes and memberships