🎡 Father’s Day fun, beer fest, and free family events

Spring felt like it took its time arriving this year, but the warmer weather has finally shown up and I couldn't be happier. One of my favorite seasonal traditions is visiting Heeman's on the east end of London, and this week I made my first greenhouse trip of the year. There is something about walking through rows of flowers, plants, and fresh greenery that makes it feel like the season is finally in full swing. Here's hoping the sunshine sticks around for a while. 

The Gist: Editors Hilary Bates Neary and Michael Baker have teamed up with more than 50 local writers to release an updated edition of London Street Names. Launched this past weekend at the London Public Library's Central branch, the book digs into the lore behind more than 130 of our local roads.

Why It Matters: Getting to know these quirky backstories is a lovely, bite-sized way to appreciate the layers of history and natural heritage that make us the Forest City.

The Gist: London and Middlesex Community Housing held a topping-off ceremony on Monday for the second building in its Reimagine Southdale project, a six-storey residence at 955 Southdale Road East. It is part of a multi-phase plan to replace aging public housing and add affordable homes in the city's southeast end. The building is expected to open in summer 2027.

Why It Matters: Affordable rents will be set using federal CMHC guidelines, and one-bedroom units in the project's first phase rented for roughly $1,000 a month. For a city where housing costs dominate kitchen-table conversations, new stock at those rates is worth watching.

What's Next: The building is slated to welcome its first residents in summer 2027.

Want a plate piled high and a cold drink in hand? Paradigm Spirits Co. hosting their casual Paradigm Grill 100 Days of Summer nights on June 18 and 25 satisfies that craving. They are firing up the open barbecue with no fuss or reservations needed.

Since they distill award-winning whisky, gin, and rum right on site, the cocktails are exceptional. If you’re looking ahead, check their curated bottle sets, which ship across Ontario for an ideal dockside patio sipper. Keep an eye out around the corner too, as they are known to love celebrating with great Canada Day promotions.

If a great Dad day involves a steering wheel or a putter, point everyone toward East Park. This locally owned Hamilton Road spot has been London's place to play for decades, and they’re open Sundays.

The summer lineup features a 1,800 foot go-kart track, batting cages, mini-golf, and a waterpark with seven slides. They’re hosting a Father's Day celebration on June 21, offering free mini golf for dads with the purchase of a round!

Need a great realtor in London or Port Stanley?
Email Silver Phoenix at [email protected]. He’ll focus on your lifestyle goals and neighbourhood needs to find the right home in a community you’ll love being a part of.

DID YOU KNOW?

Masonville was largely farmland until London's north-end expansion took off in the 1980s. Today, the neighbourhood is home to more than 10,000 residents, with most homes being owner-occupied single-detached properties. Its proximity to Western University, University Hospital, shopping, and trails continues to make it one of London's most sought-after neighbourhoods.

🪶 Indigenous Solidarity Day | Victoria Park | 06/19 | More
Sunrise ceremony, pow wow, dancers, food and craft vendors.

🎡 London Children's Festival | Victoria Park | 06/19–06/21 | More
Free carnival rides, roaming performers and hands-on activities for the kids.

🍔 Fundraiser BBQ | Southwest Pet | 06/20 | More
Face painting, lively reptile encounters, and grilled treats supporting senior dogs!

🎣 Ontario Family Fishing Weekend | Thames River and area waters | 06/20–06/21 | More
Free for Father’s Day Weekend; a perfect first outing with the kids.

🤠 Father's Day at the Village | Fanshawe Pioneer | 06/21 | More
Heritage games, demonstrations and a live vintage music show for everyone.

🎶 Springbank Garden Concert Series | Guy Lombardo Pavilion | 06/21 | More
Opening weekend: live music under the trees to open summer Sundays.

🌸 Father's Day Remembrance | Forest Lawn Cemetery | 06/21 | More
A quiet gathering: complimentary memorial flowers and refreshing ice cream.

🤠 Bailey Zimmerman | Canada Life Place | 06/19 | More
Gravelly, chart-topping country anthems built for a singalong. Ticketed.

🍺 The London Beer Fest | Dundas Place | 06/19–06/20 | More
Free entry; 20-plus local craft brewers and an IPA showdown.

🎵 Justin Maki: Technicolor Dreams Album Release | Aeolian Hall | 06/20 | More
Pop-infused R&B and soul rhythms packed with upbeat, danceable grooves!

🔮 Summer Solstice Psychic Fair | London Spiritualist Church | 06/20 | More
Insightful private mediumship sessions, restorative energy healing, and more!

🎷 Sunday Jazz: Hilary Welch Trio | Market Lane | 06/21 | More
Smooth outdoor melodies providing a sophisticated and relaxing ambiance.

👢 Kinky Boots | Canada Life Place | 06/23–06/24 | More
Tony-winning musical with a Cyndi Lauper score and heart. Ticketed.

🏌️ Porsche Centre London 2026 Golf Tournament | Greenhills Country Club | 06/24 | More
An elevated afternoon of premium golf, fine dining, and charity auctions.

Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

Click here to follow us: Facebook | Instagram