What's on this weekend in Burlington

It's a weekend of art, barbecue, and exterior illumination

Mike Madole, AKA Rusty, was inspired by National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation to transform his house into a festive wonderland.Mike M/X photo

We’re in the home stretch, folks. There are 10 days left until Christmas, nine of which are shopping days.

When you're not hitting the malls, here’s what’s on this weekend in Burlington.

Festive lights

Many holiday enthusiasts around Burlington have installed extravagant displays for neighbours to enjoy. Here are a few of our favourites.

Rudolph In Aldershot

The Dowland Crescent neighbourhood transforms into the North Pole in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Those who visit can bring along a donatin for Socks for Hope. Complete with visits from Santa (and the Grinch)..

Check out some pictures on the Rudolph In Aldershot Instagram page.

Frosty’s Village

Lockhart Village is decorated for the holidays, and even shows classic holiday cartoons on an outdoor projector.

Last year, 28 houses in the neighbourhood had the same red-hatted blowup snowman on their lawn.

Check out Lockhart – err – Frosty’s Village Instagram page here.

Rusty Griswold’s

The Rusty Griswold light display has been in operation since 2015. Mike Madole, who goes by Rusty Griswold at this time of year, was inspired by National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation to transform his house using the power of exterior illumination. Word is still out if Mike did in fact use 25,000 imported Italian twinkle lights.

To learn more, check out the Rusty Griswold website.

Dec. 16

Sobey’s BBQ for Shifra Homes - 1 - 5 p.m. - Brant Street Sobey’s

Staff at the Sobey’s on Brant are holding a barbecue in support of Shifra Homes, a Burlington maternity residence and shelter home that protects women who are new to being a parent, fleeing violence, or working to rebuild.

Dec. 17

Family Open Studio: Still Life Botanical Drawings - 1 - 4 p.m. - Art Gallery of Burlington

Kids aged four and up can dive into arts and crafts with their families as part of the AGB’s Family Open Studio. This week, instructor Annie Webber goes over still life drawings. This is a free event, but registration is required.

To learn more, and to register, click here.