Call 911 for immediate help for life-threatening medical, fire, or police emergencies.

______________________________________________________________

24/7 Crisis & Mental Health Support

SOAR Community Services - Crisis Phone Line
📞 (519) 759-7188 | 1-866-811-7188
24/7 support for mental health or situational crises.

988 Suicide Crisis Helpline

📞 Call or text 988
24/7 confidential support across Canada.

Kids Help Phone

📞 1-800-668-6868 | Text CONNECT to 686868

24/7 support for children, youth, and young adults. 

_____________________________________________________

In-Person Crisis Support

SOAR Mental Health Walk-In Clinic
📍 133 Elgin Street
🕑 Mon & Wed, 2–7 PM
No appointment needed.

Brantford General Hospital – Emergency Department
📍 200 Terrace Hill Street
Emergency medical and mental health care.
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Violence & Abuse Support

Nova Vita Crisis & Support Line

📞 (519) 752-HELP

24/7 support, safety planning, phone/text/chat.

Victim Services of Brant

Provides immediate, confidential support to individuals affected by crime or tragic circumstances. Victim Services offers crisis intervention, safety planning, emotional support, and help navigating community and justice-related services in Brantford and Brant County.
Victim Services of Brant – Making People Feel Safe and Secure 

_____________________________________________________

 
Medical Advice & Health Support (24/7) 

📞 Call 8-1-1 | Online chat available 

Free, confidential access to registered nurses and health professionals who can help you decide whether to seek urgent care, visit an emergency department, or manage symptoms at home. 

Home - Health811

_____________________________________________________

Provincial & Specialized Helplines

If you're looking for support tailored to your identity, situation, or caregiving role, these services are available across Ontario and Canada.

One Stop Talk (Ontario)

📞 1-855-416-8255

Immediate access to a free professional therapist for children, youth, and families across Ontario.

Good2Talk (Ontario)

📞 1-866-925-5454

💬 Text GOOD2TALKON to 686868

Free, confidential mental health support for post-secondary students in Ontario.

Hope for Wellness (Canada)

📞 1-855-242-3310

💬 Online chat available

Immediate mental health counselling and crisis support for Indigenous peoples across Canada, available in multiple Indigenous languages as well as English and French.

Black Youth Helpline (Canada)

📞 1-833-294-8650

Support and referrals for Black youth, families, and communities. Services available in French and other languages upon request.

Talk4Healing (Ontario)

📞 1-855-554-HEAL (4325)

Culturally grounded support for Indigenous women, by Indigenous women, available in many Indigenous languages as well as English and French.

Ontario Caregiver Helpline

📞 1-833-416-2273

Information and support for caregivers navigating programs, services, and resources across Ontario.

Trans Lifeline (Canada)

📞 1-877-330-6366

Peer support run by and for trans and questioning people. Confidential and non-judgmental.

LGBT YouthLine (Ontario)

📞 1-800-268-9688

💬 Text 647-694-4275

Peer support, resources, and referrals for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and young adults (29 and under) across Ontario. 

Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health (CMHO Family Care Centre)
A mental health support hub with trusted information, peer support, and practical guides for parents and caregivers navigating children's mental health challenges.
Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health | PCMH 

Canadian Mental Health Association
Local mental health services offering supports like community programs, peer support, activity groups, housing help, and family support.
https://bhn.cmha.ca/cmha-programs-and-services/ 

Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services
Local programs providing mental health and autism supports for children, youth, families, and caregivers.
Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services | Inspiring Hope 

Sexual Assault Centre of Brant (SAC Brant)

Provides free, confidential, trauma-informed support for survivors of sexual violence. SAC Brant offers counselling, advocacy, and education services to cis women and people of marginalized genders, including trans women, Two-Spirit, and non-binary individuals. They also work to create social change through community education and collaboration.

Sexual Assault Centre of Brant 

Margot's Place
Inclusive support programs for young parents (29 yrs & under) offering peer support, weekly groups, drop-ins, parenting activities, parent education, and help connecting with local services.
Margot's Place: Supportive Programs For Young Moms

The Parachute Program
A free, drop-in peer support group for parents with babies (0-12 months), offering a welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and find encouragement during the early months of parenthood.
The Parachute Program - Kids Can Fly

Hope Pregnancy & Family Support Centre
A local faith-based support center offering free, confidential support for individuals and families during pregnancy and early parenting, including education, practical help, and one-on-one support.  They do not provide or refer for abortion care.
Hope | Home 

EarlyON Child and Family Centres
Free drop-in programs for parents, caregivers, and children (birth to 6 yrs) offering play-based activities, early development support, and opportunities to connect with other families.
Event Details - City of Brantford  

Launchpad (Kids Can Fly)
A free early learning and support program for preschool-aged children and their caregivers, offering play-based activities, early development support, and opportunities to build routines, confidence, and connection before school entry.
The Launch Pad: Frequently Asked Questions - Kids Can Fly 

Child and Family Services of Grand Erie

This agency works with families to support the safety, health, and well-being of children and youth. They can also help families connect with community services and supports when additional assistance is needed.

Home - Child and Family Services of Grand Erie 

Taylor’s Rights

Taylor’s Rights provides education, resources, and information to help families and community members better understand child welfare processes and navigate related systems. 

Taylor the Turtle - Taylor's Rights 

La Leche League Canada – Brantford

A free peer support group for parents who are breastfeeding, chestfeeding, or planning to feed their babies human milk. Meetings offer a welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with other parents. Support from trained Leaders is also available between meetings if needed.

Brantford | La Leche League Canada 

Contact Brant- Family Support and Service Navigation
The first place to contact for families needing help navigating community supports for children and youth with behavioural, developmental, and special needs, including autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Resources for Parents - Contact Brant - Children's Services Brantford  

Lansdowne Children’s Centre

Provides assessment, therapy, and specialized support services for children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs in Brantford and surrounding communities. Lansdowne works with families to help children reach their fullest potential through coordinated and family-centred care. 

Lansdowne Children's Centre for child development 

Why Not Youth Centre
A free, welcoming drop-in space for local youth to hang out, access support, activities, life skills coaching, and links to other community services in a safe, supervised environment.
Why Not Youth Centre | Why Not City Missions

Woodview in the Square
A safe, youth-friendly hub offering drop-in activities, games and optional drop-in counselling for ages 12-18.
Woodview in the Square | Youth Hub and Drop In

Brantford Public Library
A safe, welcoming space for children, youth and teens to spend time after school, access books and technology, attend free programs, and connect in a supervised, inclusive environment.
Brantford Public Library

City of Brantford – Youth Programs
A variety of supervised programs and recreational opportunities for youth ages 11–17, including drop-in spaces, activities, and community engagement programs such as the W Lounge. Many programs are low-cost, with some requiring only a $5 annual registration. Please visit the link for current program details, schedules, and registration information.
Youth Programs - City of Brantford 

Brantford Food & Meal Calendar (Monthly Schedule)
A regularly updated calendar showing where free meals, food bank services, and community food supports are offered throughout Brantford and area each month.
Event Details - City of Brantford 

City of Brantford – Find Affordable Housing

Information about affordable housing options in Brantford, including how to apply for rent-geared-to-income housing, housing waitlists, eligibility requirements, and available programs. This page connects individuals and families to local housing supports and application processes. 

Find Housing - City of Brantford 

211 Ontario

A free, confidential service that connects people to local community and social services across Ontario. Available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat, 211 helps individuals and families find support for housing, food, mental health, financial assistance, and more. 

211 Ontario 

Brantford-Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team (BBNOHT)
A regional partnership that connects individuals and families to coordinated health and community services across Brantford, Brant County, Haldimand, and Norfolk. BBNOHT helps improve access to care and supports navigation within the local healthcare system.
Brantford-Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team
Services :: Brantford Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team 

Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health
A welcoming peer support group in Brantford where parents and caregivers can share experiences, feel less alone, and connect with others navigating children's mental
https://woodview.ca/brantford-mental-health/pcmh-groups/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

HOPE Brant
A local peer-run organization offering connection, group activities, and drop-in support for adults facing mental health challenges.
Helping Ourselves through Peer Support & Employment

Brantford Public Library
A community hub offering free programs, events, resources, and spaces for families of all ages, including story times, youth programs, technology access, and community connection.
Brantford Public Library 

The Messiness of Parenting Podcast
A local parenting podcast featuring parents and specialists from Brantford and area. Through honest conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories, this podcast explores the ups, downs, and everyday moments of raising children.

The Messiness of Parenting | Podcast on Spotify 

Before attending any event, please click the link provided for full details, including location information and registration requirements. Some events require advance registration.

Ongoing (17-week program)

Caring Dads Group Program

Caring Dads is a 17-week group program for fathers and male caregivers who want to build safer, healthier, and more positive relationships with their children and their children’s mother. Participants reflect on their parenting, understand the impact of their actions, and develop practical skills to strengthen trust, emotional safety, and connection within their families.

Learn more or register:

519-750-3195 | info@novavita.org

The Brantford Poppy Project Workshops
Community members of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in free drop-in poppy-making workshops across Brantford. Participants can learn to create handmade poppies while connecting with others and contributing to a large community remembrance art installation honouring veterans and military families. Supplies, guidance, and beginner-friendly support are provided at each session.
Workshop Dates:
• July 14 @ 5:30–8:00pm – Myrtleville House Museum
• July 16 @ 2:00–3:30pm – Brantford Public Library Main Branch
• August 6 @ 5:30–8:00pm – Myrtleville House Museum
• August 15 @ 10:00–11:30am – Brantford Public Library Main Branch
• September 15 @ 5:30–8:00pm – Brant Museum & Archives
Learn more or get involved:
Brantford Poppy Project  | brantfordpoppyproject@gmail.com

Weekly Summer Events

Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00pm

Roller Skate in the Square

Get movin' and groovin' with a live DJ during Roller Skate in the Square at Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street. Presented by Contact Brant, this all-ages event features on-site skate rentals for a small fee, with sizes ranging from youth 12 to adult 15. Registration is completed on-site, and there is no program on August 3.

Learn more:

Roller Skate in the Square 

Tuesdays, 10:00–11:00am

Character Meet and Greets

Children can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, to meet a different character from Glass Slipper Company each week. Presented by Contact Brant, these magical mornings include photo opportunities, colouring pages, and the chance to have artwork signed by the featured character. In the event of inclement weather, the program moves to the lobby of the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts.

Learn more:

Character Meet and Greets 

Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30pm

Tween Freeze Fest

Kids ages 8–12 can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for this weekly drop-in program featuring ice-themed games, frosty crafts, and refreshing icy snacks. 

Tween Freeze Fest 

Tuesdays, 5:30–6:30pm

The Hangout

Teens ages 13–17 can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a relaxed drop-in space featuring snacks, games, and optional book discussions. Whether you're reading this summer or not, everyone is welcome to come hang out. 

The Hangout 

Tuesdays, 6:00–7:30pm
Hot Summer Nights
Families can cool off and learn about fire safety during Hot Summer Nights, featuring a fire truck sprinkler and free freezies while supplies last. Events take place at a different Brantford park each week throughout the summer.
Locations:
• July 14 – Devon Down Park, 70 Abigail Avenue
• July 21 – Cedarland Park, 160 Ashgrove Avenue
• July 28 – Silverbridge Park, 75 Dante Crescent
• August 4 – Parsons Park, 160 Ontario Street

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:00–2:00pm

Chess in the Square

Players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy free outdoor chess with the Brantford Chess Club at Harmony Square, 58 Dalhousie Street. Whether you're a seasoned player or just learning, everyone is welcome to drop in for an afternoon of strategy and fun. 

Chess in the Square | City of Brantford 

Select Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30pm
Youth Volunteer Group
Teens ages 13–17 can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library to help shape library programs and spaces while earning volunteer hours. Participants can learn about additional volunteer opportunities and receive hours for attending this drop-in program.
Dates:
• July 22
• August 5
• August 19
Youth Volunteer Group 

Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:00–9:00pm

Drop-In Pickleball

Players of all skill levels are welcome to drop in for pickleball hosted by the Holmedale Neighbourhood Association at Dufferin Park in Brantford. Sessions are held every Wednesday and Friday throughout the summer, and anyone interested in trying the sport is welcome.

Contact:

Erica | 519-759-4150 | hnapickleball@gmail.com 

Wednesdays, 2:30–3:30pm

Pages of Summer: Art Journaling for Kids

Children of all ages can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a creative reading adventure. Each week features new prompts and ideas to inspire reading, drawing, and artistic expression. Journals are provided, and the program is offered on a drop-in basis. 

Pages of Summer: Art Journaling for Kids 

Select Thursdays, 6:00–7:30pm
The Paint Lounge
Adults ages 18+ can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for an evening of freestyle painting. No experience is needed, and all supplies, including a take-home canvas, are provided. This relaxed drop-in program offers music, creativity, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dates:
• July 23
• August 6
• August 20
The Paint Lounge 

Select Thursdays, 6:00–7:30pm
Diamond Dots
Adults can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library to learn the basics of diamond dotting with host Jacky. Materials are provided for beginners, and experienced crafters are welcome to bring their own projects and enjoy a creative evening with others.
Dates:
• August 13
Diamond Dots 

Fridays, 7:00–8:30pm

Music in the Square

Enjoy free outdoor concerts in Harmony Square in downtown Brantford all summer long. Presented by TD Bank Group, Music in the Square features a variety of live musical performances, weather permitting, with special Sunday afternoon performances on select dates. 

Learn more:

Music in the Square: Telephone City Musical Society

Fridays, 2:30–4:30pm
Family Flick Favourites
Families can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for weekly movie afternoons featuring favourite family films. Snacks are provided, and caregivers are encouraged to use discretion as some movies may contain material not suitable for younger children.
Movie Schedule:
• July 17 – Mrs. Doubtfire (PG)
• July 24 – Home Alone (PG)
• July 31 – Spy Kids (PG)
• August 7 – Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (PG)
• August 14 – The Princess Bride (PG)
• August 21 – Alvin and the Chipmunks (G)
• August 28 – A Minecraft Movie (PG)
Family Flick Favourites: The Goonies 
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

July 3 & 10

Infant Sign Language Program

Families with babies from birth to 1 year can visit EarlyON Brantford-Brant at 30 Bell Lane for this free two-week program introducing Signed English through songs. New signs and handouts are provided each week, along with tips for incorporating infant sign language into everyday interactions with your baby. 

July 11–12

DuckFest 2026

DuckFest is a two-day, family-friendly festival in Downtown Brantford supporting Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services. Families can enjoy games, live music, prizes, activities, and plenty of duck-themed fun throughout the weekend. Events include the third annual Catch-A-Ducky activities at Harmony Square and a rubber duck race along the Grand River at Brants Crossing Park.

Learn more or adopt a duck:

Home | Duckfest  

July 16, 8:45–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: Dog Man

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of Dog Man. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

July 17, 10:30–11:30am

Tie-Dye Party at St. Paul

Children ages 6–12 can visit the St. Paul Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a morning of tie-dye fun. Participants can decorate socks, scrunchies, and bags provided by the library, or bring an item from home to personalize. A cool treat is included, and the program is offered on a drop-in basis. 

July 18 @ 1:00–4:00pm

Friends 4 Kindness Unbirthday Party

Families and individuals of all abilities are invited to this free, inclusive community celebration focused on friendship, belonging, and connection. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, games, activities, sweet treats, loot bags, and opportunities to build meaningful friendships in a welcoming environment. The event takes place at Mohawk Park in Brantford and is designed to ensure everyone feels celebrated and included.

Learn more or register:

Unbirthday Party Invitation | Join the Celebration Today — Friends 4 Kindness 

July 18, 11:00am–1:00pm
Book Launch Party & Meet the Author – Natalie Reinelt
Readers are invited to celebrate the release of ALTERED, the debut science fiction thriller by Canadian author Natalie Reinelt. This free community event includes an author meet-and-greet, book signing, and the opportunity to purchase signed copies while connecting with fellow readers and members of the local literary community. ALTERED follows seventeen-year-old Sadie O'Malley as she becomes entangled in a world of espionage, surveillance, and experimental technology after a shocking secret changes her life forever. This free event is proudly held in support of the Child & Family Services of Grand Erie Foundation.
Location:
Polish Hall Lounge (Downstairs)
154 Pearl Street, Brantford

July 18, 2:00–4:30pm

Brantford Garden Club Flower & Garden Show
Community members are invited to the 171st Brantford Garden Club Flower and Garden Show at the Lions Park Arena & Auditorium, 20 Edge Street. This free event welcomes visitors of all ages to enjoy floral displays and celebrate gardening with fellow enthusiasts. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. 

July 20 @ 2:30pm

Marvelous Mondays: Songs in the Key of Sea with The Mighty Ship

Drop in to the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for an entertaining musical performance with The Mighty Ship that the whole family will enjoy.  

July 23, 8:40–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: Inside Out 2

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of Inside Out 2. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

July 27 @ 1:30–2:30pm

La science du dégueulasse / Ewww…that Science is Gross! with Scientists in Schools

Join Scientists in Schools at the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a gross but fun-filled science adventure presented in French. Children ages 6–12 will explore the science behind snot, scat, burps, and other wonderfully disgusting topics through hands-on activities. Registration opens June 29. 

La science du dégueulasse / Ewww…that Science is Gross! with Scientists in Schools 

July 27 @ 2:30–3:15pm
Marvelous Mondays: The Magic of Scott Dietrich
Visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a fun-filled magic show with Scott Dietrich featuring laughter, wonder, and a visit from a live bunny.

July 30, 8:30–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: Zootopia 2

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of Zootopia 2. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

August 5, 9:05–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Cool Runnings

Families can visit Cedarland Park, 160 Ashgrove Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Cool Runnings. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 6, 8:15–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

August 8, 9:00–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Bad Guys 2

Families can visit Greenbrier Park, 8A Scotia Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Bad Guys 2. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 10 @ 2:30–3:15pm

Marvelous Mondays: Jedi Knight Party

Star Wars fans can drop in to the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for face painting and a special visit from a Jedi Knight. 

August 12, 8:55–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Beethoven

Families can visit Princess Anne Park, 17 Helen Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Beethoven. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 13, 8:15–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: Paddington in Peru

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of Paddington in Peru. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

August 15, 8:50–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Wicked: For Good

Families can visit Mayfair Park, 24 Miles Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Wicked: For Good. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 17 @ 2:30–3:15pm

Marvelous Mondays: Salthaven Wildlife

Visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library to learn about baby wildlife and discover ways to help animals in your own backyard with the experts from Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre. 

August 19, 8:40–11:00pm
Movies in the Park: The Princess Bride
Families can visit Tutela Park, 160 Erie Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of The Princess Bride. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association.

August 20, 8:00–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: A Minecraft Movie

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of A Minecraft Movie. Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn. 

August 22, 8:40–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Hitpig

Families can visit Dufferin Park, 164 St. Paul Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Hitpig. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 24 @ 2:30–3:15pm

Marvelous Mondays: Disney Trivia

Visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a family-friendly afternoon of fast-paced Disney trivia and put your knowledge of your favourite characters and stories to the test. 

August 26, 8:30–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

Families can visit Pleasant Ridge Park, 20 Elderwood Avenue, for a free outdoor showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association. 

August 27, 7:45–11:00pm

Movies in the Square: How to Train Your Dragon (2025)

Families can visit Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, for a free outdoor showing of How to Train Your Dragon (2025). Pre-show activities begin before the movie, and popcorn, sweet treats, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Moviegoers who ride their bike to the event receive a free bag of popcorn.

August 29, 8:30–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Space Jam (1996)

Families can visit City View Park, 184 Terrace Hill Street, for a free outdoor showing of Space Jam (1996). Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association.

August 31, 5:30–7:30pm

Jewelry Making Drop-In

Adults ages 18+ can visit the Main Branch of the Brantford Public Library for a relaxed, social jewelry-making session. All skill levels are welcome, and staff provide basic instruction along with a variety of materials for creating handmade pieces. 

September 2, 8:20–11:00pm

Movies in the Park: Elio

Families can visit Recreation Park, 258 Nelson Street, for a free outdoor showing of Elio. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars, presented by the local Neighbourhood Association.