Festivals & Events

Event Planning Information

Hamilton remains under a province-wide Stay-at-Home Order until at least May 20, 2021

  • This means you must stay at home. You should only go out for necessities.
  • Do not travel outside your region or the province unless absolutely necessary

The information below applies to new event requirements as of April 16, 2021.

  • No indoor or outdoor organized public events orsocial gatherings, except with members of the same household (the people you live with).
    • Individuals who live alone, including seniors, may consider having exclusive, close contact with another household.
  • Public events in the City of Hamilton are currently limited to virtual activities. In-person events are not being considered at this time. All events up until and including July 31, 2021 have been cancelled, postponed or will be held virtually.

More information on these measures is outlined in the “COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open” and summarized on the Provincial site at COVID-19 response framework: keeping Ontario safe and open.

Are you organizing an event on City property? We're here to help. 

COVID-19 Response Plan Template & Re-Opening Guidelines: 

Park Rental Re-Opening Guidelines (PDF, 63 KB)
Events on Public Property Re-Opening Guidelines (PDF, 73 KB)
COVID-19 Response Plan Template (PDF, 256 KB)

General Rentals


General rentals are defined as private events with less than 100 people, such as:

  • Birthday parties
  • Sports activities
  • Meetings
  • Gatherings
  • Corporate functions

To rent a recreation facility, sports field or arena, visit www.hamilton.ca/recreationrentals

Community Events


Community events are defined as events open to the public that have less than 1,000 people with event components, such as:

  • Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  • Sound Amplification
  • Inflatables (e.g. bouncy castles)
  • Small tents (e.g. 10 ft. x 10 ft.)

Complete a 2021 Community Event Request Form

Contact Information:
Recreation Division
[email protected]
Phone: 905-546-3747

Major Events


Major events are defined as events open to the public that have more than 1,000 people and/or have any one of the following:

  • Road closures
  • Alcohol
  • Tents requiring permits (larger than 60m2)
  • Temporary structures requiring permits (larger than 225m2)
  • Fireworks
  • Open flame/ fire producing device
  • Amusement rides / places of amusement

Complete a 2021 Festival & Event Approval Application

Note: applications must be submitted a minimum of 60 days prior to your event date.

Contact Information:
Special Events Advisory Team (S.E.A.T.)
[email protected]
Phone: 905-546-3747