Oakville Museum Programs and Events
Specialized museum program and registration information.
Browse Oakville Museum programs
Current and upcoming programs
Artist Shary Boyle in Conversation
April 29 at 7 p.m.
Tickets: $10
The Museum welcomes celebrated Canadian artist Shary Boyle for an intimate talk about her evocative work, The Sleeper. Currently resting beneath the gardens of Erchless Estate, The Sleeper was commissioned through the Ontario Culture Days Creatives in Residence program, inviting artists to respond to place, history, and community.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to wander the grounds, experience the Moon Garden, and reflect on the work in its natural setting. As the evening unfolds in anticipation of the full moon, Boyle will share the creative ideas and symbolism behind the piece, exploring themes of renewal, memory, and the quiet rituals that connect us to place. Light refreshments will follow.
Fresh Finds: Spring Cooking Workshop
May 2 from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Ages 12 and older
Explore light, garden-inspired recipes rooted in the past with Chef Laura Strath. In this talk, demo and hands-on session, make and taste unique early 20th century recipes from our archives. Discover how simple, fresh ingredients have always been at the heart of a good table.
Yoga - Introduction
Tuesdays starting May 5 from 10 to 11 a.m.
For ages 18 and older
Are you new to yoga or looking to unwind? Discover the power of deep relaxation and learn various poses and forms.
Movement, Mindfulness and Meditation
Tuesdays starting May 5 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
For ages 18 and older
Learn gentle yoga poses and calming breathing exercises. Guided meditation will make up most of the class.
Hidden Treasures Tea and Tour
May 9 at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Ages 12 and older
Not all stories are on display. Enjoy a special guided tour of Erchless Estate highlighting artifacts that bring Oakville’s story to life. Then enjoy a delightful tea experience in the Coach House and learn more about our collections in storage.
Mindful Meditation Workshop
May 16 from 10 to 11:15 a.m.
Ages 18 and older
Join us for a free guided meditation session in the Coach House. Begin with gentle yoga poses to stretch the body, release tension and calm restlessness. Learn breathing exercises to draw the senses inward and focus the mind.
Registration opens May 9.
Tots n' Pots
May 22 and 29, or May 27 and June 3
9:45 to 11:45 a.m.
Ages 3 to 5
Craft, plant seeds and explore the historic gardens at Erchless Estate. This fun gardening program is the perfect way to introduce young children to an unparented program experience.
Shots of History: Stories with Spirit
May 29 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Ages 19 and older
Step into an evening where history is shaken, stirred, and served with a twist. This lively and immersive experience brings the past to life through flavourful bites, storytelling, and a touch of spirited fun. A special guest from Majestic Wine Cellars will craft a selection of bespoke cocktails while sharing the rich histories, traditions, and character behind each spirit. The evening features a special curator talk and a companion exhibit.
Ticket link coming soon.
Museum Craft and Tour (Parented)
Friday, June 5 at 1:30 and 3 p.m.
For ages 4 to 12, plus adults
Create a special craft with your child and enjoy a guided tour of the Oakville Museum.
Register for 1:30 p.m. Museum Craft and Tour - Parented (Ages 4-5)
Register for 1:30 p.m. Museum Craft and Tour - Parented (Ages 6-12)
Register for 3 p.m. Museum Craft and Tour - Parented (Ages 4-5)
Register for 3 p.m. Museum Craft and Tour - Parented (Ages 6-12)
Summer camp at the Museum
Our week-long camps run July and August from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A half day mini camp for Tots ages 4 to 5 runs from September 1 to 3 from 9 a.m. to noon. Program descriptions are provided after the weekly schedules.
Weekly themes
Week 1 – June 29-July 3
- Incredible Insects, Ages 4 to 5 and 6 to 7 (no camp July 1)
Week 2 – July 6-10
- Museum Mystery, Ages 6 to 7
- Curtain Call, Ages 7 to 9
Week 3 – July 13-17
- Where Science Meets Art, Ages 8 to 9
- Curtain Call, Ages 10 to 12
Week 4 – July 20-24
- Curtain Call, Ages 7 to 9
- Design and Architecture Camp, Ages 10 to 12
Week 5 – July 27-31
- Take Part Art, Ages 4 to 5
- Curtain Call, Ages 10 to 12
Week 6 – August 4-7
- Buildings in Your Town, Ages 4 to 5 and 6 to 7 (No camp August 3)
Week 7 – August 10-14
- Fashion and Design, Ages 8 to 9
- Curtain Call, Ages 10 to 12
Week 8 – August 17-21
- Curtain Call, Ages 7 to 9
- What's in a Museum, Ages 8 to 9
Week 9 – August 24-28
- Inventor's Workshop, Ages 6 to 7 and 8 to 9
Camp descriptions
Buildings in your Town
Ages 4 to 5, 6 to 7 and 8 to 9
Discover amazing buildings and places that make up your town! Meet our neighbours in the Old Oakville heritage district. As a kid architect, build structures and create your own city inspired by the amazing places we’ll visit.
Curtain Call
Ages 7 to 9 and 10 to 12
Step on stage to discover the power of your creative voice by learning the basic elements of drama through games, mime, improvisation, and storytelling. A specialized instructor will introduce campers to fundamental theatre skills while exploring their imagination and developing self-confidence. Create a unique piece of theatre that will be performed on the last day for family to enjoy! Camp days will be balanced with fun recreational activities. Campers must be able to participate on the final day.
Design and Architecture Camp
Ages 10 to 12
Learn how architecture shapes our world and influences our lives. See unique designs from the past in the Old Oakville heritage district. Meet guest speakers who are experts in the field. Express your own vision through futuristic designs of our town!
Fashion and Design Camp
Ages 8 to 9
Explore design and fashion through the ages! Get up close and personal with our costume and textile collection. Try various craft techniques such as weaving, dyeing and stitching to design and create unique projects. Meet guest speakers who are experts in the field.
Incredible Insects
Ages 4 to 5 and 6 to 7
Search for insects as you explore our natural site. Learn about native pollinators who help our gardens grow! Play fun games, make crafty critters, and create beautiful art inspired by our buggy friends. Make your own cabinet of curiosity to showcase your insect findings.
Inventor’s Workshop
Ages 6 to 7 and 8 to 9
Join us for a week of curiosity, experiments and imagination! Be inspired by the inventions of the Chisholm family to tinker and create your own. Participate in fun invention challenges and team up to create inventive solutions!
Museum Mystery
Ages 6 to 7 and 8 to 9
Calling all detectives! Hone your investigative skills and unravel the mysteries of Oakville’s past. Crack the code, track the evidence, and solve intriguing puzzles during this awesome week of sleuthing.
Outdoor Adventures at Erchless Estate
Ages 4 to 5
Explore natural diversity at Erchless Estate. Learn about our water systems and discover wildlife and native plants to gain an appreciation for our natural world. There will be lots of nature exploration and arts and crafts inspired by your daily investigations!
Take Part Art
Ages 4 to 5 and 6 to 7
Explore the world of art at your local museum! Dive into exciting activities like drawing, painting, and sculpture. This interactive program combines history with creativity, offering an engaging journey through art and discovery.
Mini Take Part Art, a 3-day half day camp, is offered September 1 to 3 from 9 a.m. to noon for ages 4 to 5.
What’s in a Museum?
Ages 6 to 7 and 8 to 9
Let our fascinating artifacts spark your curiosity and creativity! Themes from science, natural history, local heritage and more will uncover stories from near and far. Join us for hands-on exploration, crafts and classic camp games!
Where Science meets Art
Ages 8 to 9
Illustrate nature while learning basic scientific principles. Our stunning lakeside gardens are the perfect background to explore. Try out various art mediums to create your masterpiece.
Museum tours
Oakville Museum guided tours
Tuesday to Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
General admission by donation
Join our expert staff for a fun and fast-paced guided tour of the beautiful Erchless Estate. Learn about the Chisholms, Oakville's founding family who called the museum home for six generations. Gain insight into the history of the town and Oakville's Black History.
Walk-in visits and guided tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For groups of 10 or more, please contact us to confirm group rate and availability. Group tours must be booked a minimum of two weeks in advance.