🛒 Simple ways Forest City locals are saving money

Last summer, my daughter and I tackled Foam Fest together: muddy, soaked, and laughing. I like to keep challenging myself, and I’ve always tried to encourage my girl to do the same: try the thing, climb the obstacle, get a little uncomfortable and see what you’re capable of! Family fun doesn’t always have to be quiet or tidy; sometimes the best memories come with wet shoes, sore leg muscles and a story you’ll still be laughing about a year later.

As we head into the last long weekend of summer, what are you doing to squeeze in one more bit of family fun before back to school starts?

The Gist: Registration is open for the 2026 Age Friendly London Conference, a City-run event focused on what it takes to make London a better place to grow older. Topics include housing, transportation, accessibility and social connection, with residents, community groups and city staff invited to share ideas.

Why It Matters: With more Londoners entering their senior years, decisions around housing, mobility and community support will shape how easily people can stay independent and connected as they age.

The Gist: Shake Shack is officially headed to London, with a new location planned for 3275 Wonderland Rd. S. in 2027. The popular burger chain is also opening in Oakville and Burlington later this year, but the London restaurant will have something those locations won’t: Ontario’s first Shake Shack drive-thru.

Why It Matters: Londoners will soon have a new spot for ShackBurgers, crinkle-cut fries and hand-spun shakes, adding another recognizable name to the growing mix of restaurants in the city’s southwest end.

Los Lobos brings big flavor and a lively downtown vibe, with street-art-covered walls, a buzzing patio and a menu made for sharing. Think corn fritters, loaded chorizo nachos, pork belly tacos and salt-rimmed margaritas making the rounds.

Grab a table under the string lights, order a few plates for everyone and settle in. And definitely leave room for the churros.

Born from six decades of local memories, Fleetway turns an ordinary afternoon into proper old-school entertainment. The 44 bowling lanes feature London’s last remaining five-pin setup, surrounded by an 18-hole glow-in-the-dark mini golf course, a massive five-level soft play area, and a bustling arcade.

Summer weekdays bring half-credit arcade games until 5 p.m. and $10 play centre passes. Ready to lose track of time over pizza and a round of billiards?

We asked what helps make life in London a little more affordable, and you weighed in. The clear winner was deal and price-comparison apps like Flipp and GasBuddy, with 41% of the votes, while coupons, loyalty programs and cashback and buy-and-sell groups, swaps and community exchanges tied for second with 20% each. 

Here's a few that I use - tell us what's missing from the list!

🎬 Outdoor Movie Nights: Luca & Lilo & Stitch | St. Julien Park & Ed Blake Park | 08/27 & 08/28 | More
Bring blankets and snacks for magical film screenings under the stars.

📖 Festival Friday: Words Words Words | Storybook Gardens | 08/28 | More
Enjoy splash pads, amusement rides, and lively stage entertainment.

💃 Brazilian Latin Fest | Covent Garden Market | 08/29 | More
Vibrant rhythms and cultural festivities held in the heart of downtown.

🚗 Volkswagen Legends Car Show | Plunkett Estate | 08/29 | More
Classic vehicles, family charity activities, and community fun!

🧸 Teddy Bear Tea at the Museum | Eldon House | 08/29 | More
Sweet treats, tea, and traditional Victorian lawn games on heritage grounds.

📚 Literacy on the Lawn: Book Buddies | Fern Speech and Language Services | 08/31-09/04 | More
Interactive stories, crafts, and games building confidence for young learners.

🎼 City of Music Concerts: Simple Reflections | Market Lane | 08/27 | More
An intimate showcase highlighting diverse artistic voices in an urban setting.

🤘 Bryan Adams with Lights | Canada Life Place | 08/29 | More
Four decades of Canadian rock anthems, live and loud.

🥩 Amateur Backyard BBQ Competition | Gibraltar Weekend Market | 08/30 | More
Creative outdoor grilling, savory smoked flavours, and friendly cooking.

🏃 Caffeine Run London | Springbank Gardens | 08/30 | More
Scenic parkland trail runs paired with warm morning coffee and sweet treats.

🎸 The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus | Rum Runners | 09/01 | More
2000s post-hardcore emo anthems, soaring choruses, and melodic hooks.

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

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