WEEKEND PLANNER

It’s another weekend in lockdown. Are you feeling weird yet?

The next few days are shaping up to be chill in the weather department. Saturday will be a mix of sun and clouds along with a high of 2 C. Sunday is more of the same with a bone-chilling high of -2 C. Here’s a few things to keep you busy this weekend.

Winter hiking

Some areas of the RBG are closed due to the lockdown, however trails, trailhead parking and the Arboretum are open. Stretch those legs safely, fill your lungs with some winter air and perhaps participate in the age-old tradition of forest bathing. There are 27 kilometres of natural trails to enjoy, but bring a mask for places that are too narrow to keep your distance from others.

Winterlit

If you want to traverse some trails in a more illuminated fashion, check out Winterlit at the Mountsberg Conservation Area. For a short jaunt try out the Winterlit Trail, 600 metres roundtrip, with art installations and a “unique lighting experience.” For something a longer there’s the one-kilometre Sugar Bush Trail complete with soft overhead lighting. Reservations are required. Winterlit is on Thursdays to Sundays from 5:30 to 10 p.m. until Feb. 15, and slots are filling up quick. Cost is $15 for adults, $11 for child/senior plus HST.

AGH

If you’ve found yourself driving around the city and marvelling at the graffiti, perhaps you’d appreciate an art gallery tour. The Art Gallery of Hamilton is open virtually. Experience Canadian icons such as Emily Carr, Robert Houle and Tom Thomson, an exhibition on French symbolism, and more.

The gallery is also hosting an ongoing virtual film series. Tickets vary from $10 to free depending on the program, with a discount for gallery members. From Friday, Jan. 8 to Feb. 4 you can watch “Zappa,” “Judy Versus Capitalism,” and “Black Bear.” New films are added each month.

Tree drop-off

Conservation Halton is hosting a Christmas tree drop-off Saturday. The event will take place in appropriate pandemic fashion via drive-thru. Stop by the administration office if you’ve got an evergreen you need to dispose of. Staff will direct traffic through the drop-off zone to ensure a contactless experience. Note that staff will not be able to assist in the removal of trees from cars. Wear a mask and drop by 2596 Britannia Rd., Burlington, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.