Oakville Museum Programs and Events
Specialized museum program and registration information.
Fall/winter programs
Oakville and the Underground Railroad walking tour
Saturday, October 19 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Ages 18 and older
Sunday, October 20 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Ages 10 to 17. Must be accompanied by an adult.
This unique indoor/outdoor tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Underground Railroad in Oakville. First, see the exhibit "Freedom, Opportunity, and Family: Oakville's Black History." Then, watch the exciting multimedia presentation "The Underground Railroad: Next Stop Freedom," which tells a true story about escaping from slavery.
The tour ends with an outdoor walk highlighting the local history of Oakville and the Underground Railroad. Please dress appropriately for the outdoor walk.
Oakville Pumpkin Parade
Friday, November 1 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Free event
Give your jack-o'-lantern another day to shine by participating in the Oakville Pumpkin Parade. Bring your creative pumpkin carvings to the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate and settle in for storytime and treats while staff light the pumpkins and line the paths near the Coach House. Halloween costumes are encouraged.
Curator's Talk
Friday, November 8 at 6 p.m.
In honour of Remembrance Day on November 11, join local historians Michael Johnson and Terry Murphy at the Oakville Museum as they lead a slate of guest speakers detailing the special contributions and heroic sacrifices made by local members of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The exhibition Pathway to the Stars: A Centennial Celebration of Oakville’s Contributions to the Royal Canadian Air Force will remain open from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in advance of this event.
Refreshments will be served.
Family Remembrance Day
Saturday, November 9 from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Ask the Curators: 2 to 4 p.m.
Drop into Erchless Estate for the chance to “Ask the Curators", Michael Johnson and Terry Murphy, about their exhibition Pathway to the Stars: A Centennial Celebration of Oakville’s Contributions to the Royal Canadian Air Force. Learn more about the important role Oakville and its people have played in Canada’s Air Force over the past 100 years.
Book readings: 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Local author and illustrator Rob McCoy will perform readings from two of his children’s books. Meet characters from the pages of his acclaimed book series Dragonfly Airline and enjoy a hands-on craft activity based on the characters from these books.
Craft station: 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Ages 3 and older
Design your own aircraft! Inspired by early Canadian aviation history, a special craft station will allow you to imagine, design and create your own aircraft with recyclables! The sky’s the limit!
Yoga - Introduction
Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.
September 24 to October 29 and November 5 to December 10
Ages 18 and older
Yoga increases flexibility, helps heal injuries, reduces stress, and calms the mind. In this slow-paced and supportive environment, you'll examine the various poses and forms of yoga to help you decide which suits you best. The instructor will give modifications based on your body type and health. Great for beginners and those looking to review the basics.
Visit with Santa (parented)
Saturday, November 23
30 minute sessions available between 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Ages 3 to 10. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.
Don't miss Santa's special visit to the Oakville Museum! Start your adventure at Oakville's First Post Office, where you can write a letter to Santa. Then, take a tour of the Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for Christmases past. Create magic in the Coach House before meeting Santa in his cozy sitting room. Please note that your 30-minute booking is for a visit with Santa in the Coach House. During this time, you will begin with a craft, and then Santa will welcome you for a short visit.
Caregivers are welcome to take their own photos of children with Santa.
The museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy all of the day's activities.
Museum Christmas Tour and Treat
Saturday, December 7
1 to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m.
Ages 18 and older
Step back in time this holiday season and visit the historic Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for an 1800s Christmas. Enjoy a wide variety of decorations, including fanciful ornaments, adorned trees, vintage fashions, and antique toys. Stroll through the estate grounds to discover Victorian vignettes and a dazzling display of lights. End your tour with a festive treat and a hot beverage.
Please note that dietary restrictions and allergies cannot be accommodated for this program.
Winter Craft and Tour
November 29, November 30, December 27 and January 3
1:30 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m.
Ages 4 to 5
Create a special craft with your child and enjoy a guided tour of the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate. The program fee applies to participating children only. Children must be accompanied and assisted by an adult.