National Youth Week is a yearly celebration of young people and their contributions to their communities. It takes place from May 1-7 and is a movement driven by local communities across Canada.
Celebrate and engage with youth-led activities, workshops, and community-building initiatives throughout the week.
Youth-focused events will explore creativity, leadership, and mental wellness, promoting positive role models and civic engagement.
Special programs will take place across various locations, providing youth with an opportunity to showcase their talents, learn new skills, and connect with their peers.
HAMILTON YOUTH WEEK EVENTS
HAMILTON YOUTH WEEK EVENTS
Youth of Tomorrow Aspire and Achieve Conference
When? Thursday, May 1st, 5:00pm - 8:30pm Where? Courtyard by Marriott, 1224 Upper James St, Hamilton For Who? Youth aged 16-19 by free registration
For more information, contact:
Mahsa Tavassoly
mahsa.tavassoly@ymcahbb.ca
Register through Eventbrite
The Youth of Tomorrow Aspire and Achieve Conference marks the start of National Youth Week, a week dedicated to recognizing the achievements, potential, and contributions of young people. This event will bring together youth, community leaders, and organizations for an evening of inspiring talks, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities.
The Youth of Tomorrow Project is funded by RBC Future Launch and supported by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada.
Event Highlights
Keynote Speaker: Valuable Insights from an industry leader on leadership, resilience, and turning ideas into action
Skill Building Workshops: Interactive workshops that help youth develop real-world skills, explore emerging opportunities, and identify their unique strengths
Community and Professional Networking: A chance to connect with like-minded peers, community leaders and organizations
Exciting Giveaways & Complimentary Refreshments A welcoming space with great food, fun prizes, and a few surprises throughout the night
Free Swim & Gym All Week Long
When? May 1st - 7th Where? City recreation centres across Hamilton For Who? Youth aged 12–17
City of Hamilton Recreation Division
In celebration of National Youth Week, the City of Hamilton Recreation Division is offering all youth drop-in programs—including open swims and gym time—free of charge for youth ages 12–17 from May 1–7.
Whether you're looking to shoot hoops, go for a swim, or just get active with friends, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and have fun throughout the week.
To find a free drop-in program near you, visit the City of Hamilton Recreation Program Finder and search for drop-in programs for ages 12–17 during the week of May 1–7.
Youth Wellness Event
When? Thursday, May 1st, 5:30pm-8:00pm Where? 639 Main St. East, Hamilton For Who? All youth by registration
BBBS Serving Grand Erie, Halton and Hamilton is hosting a Youth Wellness Event for those aged 11+ on Thursday, May 1st at their Hamilton location (639 Main St. East – parking available on site) from 5:30pm to 8pm.
The event will include an yoga session, as well as a herb garden and air dry clay activity.
Registration is limited to 20 youth for this event. To register, please email: jessica.lowry@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Youth Talent Showcase
When? Thursday, May 1st, 6:00-8:00pm Where? 26 Wilson St, Hamilton For Who? All youth by registration
The Rock’s Got Talent
A talent showcase for youth to present their skills and creativity.
Registration: Required through the registration form. Click here to register!
Teen Art Programs
When? Friday, May 2nd, 11:30am – 1:00pm Where? Saltfleet Library, 131 Gray Rd, Stoney Creek For Who? All Youth
Make Art Program
Engage in creative activities exploring the theme of art and self-expression for teens.
When? Saturday, May 3rd, 10:30am – 11:30am Where? Saltfleet Library, 131 Gray Rd, Stoney Creek For Who? All Youth
Make Art - Keychain Creation
Learn the craft of keychain creation in this hands-on workshop for teens.
When? Saturday, May 3rd, 2:30pm – 3:30pm Where? Stoney Creek Library, 777 Hwy 8, Stoney Creek For Who? All Youth
Make Art - Keychain Creation (Afternoon Session)
Learn the craft of keychain creation in this hands-on workshop for teens.
When? Saturday, May 3rd, 1:00pm – 4:00pm Where? Sherwood Library, 467 Upper Ottawa St, Hamilton For Who? Youth by registration
Beginner’s Sewing Workshop
Make a Reusable Pad workshop in partnership with the Help a Girl Out Organization to teach teens sewing skills for making reusable pads.
Register through hpl.ca/events or call the library at (289) 779-7588 for more details.
Creating Opportunities for Youth Engagement
When? Thursday, May 1st, 4:00-7:00pm Where? 2 Oriole Crescent Basketball Court, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Outdoor Sports
Enjoy exciting sports like lacrosse, volleyball, and more, plus get creative with fun craft activities on the side. Free snacks and drinks will be available for all youth. Don’t miss out on this chance to play, create, and connect with your community—see you there!
When? Monday, May 5th, 3:00-6:00pm Where? YWCA Putman Location, 52 Ottawa St N, Hamilton For Who? Fem aligned youth
Pottery Session
Join us at YWCA Putman for a pottery session and activities. At the youth hub, you will have the opportunity to mold and create something you can keep and in the future paint.
Partnered with YWCA
When? Tuesday, May 6th, 6:00-8:00pm Where? Bus pick up at 1259 Barton Street East, Hamilton For Who? BGC members
Laser Mania
We’re taking a group of youth out for an exciting night of laser tag! To show our appreciation, we’ll be inviting long-time participants from our youth programs for this special event. A school bus will be arranged for transportation, making it a fun and hassle-free night of friendly competition and adventure!
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 4:00-7:30pm Where? Centre De Sante, 1320 Barton St E, Hamilton For Who? BGC members
Closing Day Fair
To wrap up Youth Week, we’re hosting a fun and relaxed evening filled with pizza, games, and exciting raffle prizes! Upon arrival, each youth will receive raffle tickets to enter for various gifts. Throughout the night, they can enjoy a variety of games and activities at their own pace while hanging out with friends. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the week and end on a high note!
Activities will be conducted in both French and English to accommodate everyone.
When? Saturday, May 3rd, 11:00-4:00pm Where? Gage Park For Who? All Youth
Outdoor Activities
Join us at the park for an afternoon of fun and games! We’ll have volleyball, badminton, soccer, and a variety of outdoor carnival-style activities for everyone to enjoy. Youth can also grab some picnic-style snacks and swag while hanging out with friends. It’s the perfect way to relax and have fun outdoors! (indoor alternative is BGC Youth Centre)
When? Friday, May 2nd, 6:00-9:00pm Where? BGC Youth Centre,1259 Barton Street East, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Movie Night
Join us for a cozy movie night at the BGC Youth Centre! We’ll set up a dedicated movie area with comfy seating for a relaxed viewing experience, while the other side of the space will feature low-key, engaging activities for those who want to mix and mingle. Enjoy delicious snacks like popcorn and pizza as we unwind together for a fun and laid-back evening!
Partnered with
Partnered with
Partnered with
Partnered with
Partnered with
Routes Youth Centre National Youth Week Events
When? Thursday, May 1st, 3:00-5:30pm Where? Routes Youth Centre, 10 Market St S, Dundas For Who? Routes Youth
National Youth Week Kick-off
Come celebrate the beginning of National Youth Week at Routes and join us for some youth-themed Kahoot! trivia, prizes, and a build-your-own sub station
When? Friday, May 2nd, 3:00pm onwards Where? Starting point at Routes Youth Centre, 10 Market St S, Dundas For Who? Routes Youth
Hike around Dundas
Youth are invited to hike around the Dundas Driving Park with Routes! Meet us at the Centre and grab a snack from 3-4pm, then head over to the driving park for an evening of hiking! Please remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking!
When? Tuesday, May 3rd, 3:30-5:00pm Where? Starting point at Routes Youth Centre, 10 Market St S, Dundas For Who? Routes Youth
Dundas Dinner Dash
The annual Dundas Dinner Dash will take place on Tuesday, May 3rd from 3:30-5pm! Decipher clues and join us on a scavenger hunt around Dundas to find secret ingredients for a special National Youth Week Dinner!
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 3:00pm onwards Where? Routes Youth Centre, 10 Market St S, Dundas For Who? Routes Youth
Mural Painting
Join us starting at 3:00pm to unleash your creativity and help us paint a new mural that will be on display at Routes!
Youth Drop-In Workshops
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 12:00-1:30pm Where? Youth Wellness Centre, 38 James St S, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Get Organized Workshop
Support youth with strategies to get organized, focusing on scheduling, school assignments, and problem-solving.
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 2:00-3:00pm Where? Youth Wellness Centre, 38 James St S, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Pizza Break
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 1:30-2:00pm Where? Youth Wellness Centre, 38 James St S, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Improv Pop-Up
This workshop will help youth challenge anxiety by acting out situations in a safe, supportive environment.
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 3:00-4:30pm Where? Youth Wellness Centre, 38 James St S, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Telling Your Story and Social Time
An interactive story telling session in collaboration with our members of our youth council at YWC and the young adult advisory board from YA-SUP (young adult substance use program at St. Joes).
Youth Networking Event
When? Wednesday, May 7th, 5:00-6:30pm Where? 22 Veevers Dr, Hamilton For Who? All youth ages 14+ by registration
Are you looking to build your skills, expand your network, and get involved in your community? Join Green Venture for a special event as part of our Youth Stewardship & Professional Skills Program!
This event is open to all youth ages 14+, whether you’re part of the program or just looking for an opportunity to connect. Meet local Hamilton organizations, develop your professional and networking skills, and learn how you can make an impact in your community. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, looking for volunteer opportunities, or just want to grow your confidence in professional settings, this event is for you! Snacks will be provided.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow, learn, and make an impact!
Email youth@greenventure.ca to register for this free event.
Celebrating YOUth Event
When? Wednesday May 7th, 3:00pm-6:00pm Where? Putman YWCA Youth Hub, 52 Ottawa St. North, Hamilton For Who? All Youth
Take some time to celebrate your strengths, reflect on your accomplishments and have a chance to win prizes!
No registration is required, simply show up and connect with staff and take part!
For more information, contact: V Pereira
vpereira@ywcahamilton.org
Staff vs Youth Basketball Game & Youth Awards
When? Throughout the week, May 1st - 7th, 3:30pm-6:15pm Where? 460 Wentworth St N, Hamilton For Who? ERC Youth
To become an ERC Youth, simply register for their free After School Program for FREE (forms available online or in-person)
Artist Expression Workshops
The “Artist Expression Workshops” will be held, offering both staff and youth the chance to express themselves through different forms of art.
These workshops aim to inspire creativity and foster self-expression:
Train (Literacy-Based): Participants will explore their literary side by writing poems, short stories, or comics, allowing them to share their unique voices.
Art Room: This space will offer a variety of visual art mediums—such as painting, charcoal, and oil pastels—where participants can create and display their art.
Music Room: Whether through writing a song, performing live, or recording a piece, the Music Room will bring out the rhythm and melody in everyone.
Computer Room: Participants can create digital presentations, slideshows, or use the smartboard to display their work and showcase their creativity in new ways.
These workshops will run throughout the week, giving everyone the opportunity to engage with their creative side, regardless of experience level.
When? Throughout the week, May 1st - 7th, 3:30pm-6:15pm Where? 460 Wentworth St N, Hamilton For Who? ERC Youth
Youth Award Presentations
During National Youth Week, we will be hosting “Youth Award Presentations“ to recognize some of the outstanding youth participants for their achievements in various spaces (kindness, leadership, courage, etc). These awards will be presented throughout the week, honoring and highlighting their dedication and hard work.
When? May 7th, 4:00pm-6:00pm Where? 460 Wentworth St N, Hamilton For Who? ERC Youth
Staff vs. Youth Game
On May 7th we’ll close out National Youth Week with an exciting Staff vs. Youth Basketball Game! This friendly competition will bring staff and youth together for some lighthearted fun and team spirit.
Hamilton Youth Town Hall
When? Saturday, May 10th, 10:00am-4:00pm Where? Hamilton City Hall For Who? Youth ages 14-29 by registration
Model City Hall
The Youth Town Hall is a full-day civic engagement event designed by youth, for youth. Open to young people ages 14–29, this experience invites youth to explore what it means to be active citizens and influential voices in their communities.
Hosted by Model City Hall Hamilton, in partnership with the City of Hamilton Youth Strategy and the Ward 2 Councillor's Office, the day will include:
Youth-led discussions on current youth priorities in Hamilton
Skill-building workshops focused on leadership, advocacy, and civic knowledge
A dynamic Politics with Politicians Panel
Direct engagement with City of Hamilton Councillors, who will be onsite throughout the day to listen, respond, and connect with youth participants
This is your chance to share ideas, ask bold questions, and build the skills you need to lead change—right here in Hamilton.
Lunch will be provided.
Want to Get Involved?
Join these incredible events and engage in the youth-focused programming we’re offering throughout the week! Whether you’re attending a talent showcase, a drop-in workshop, or a creative program, you’ll have a chance to make an impact, learn something new, and meet other youth who share your interests!
Share Your Moments! Did you participate in one of our events? We’d love to feature your experiences. Send your photos and stories to youthservingagenciesnetwork@gmail.com to be highlighted on our website and social media.