weekend planner

Mild temperatures and celebrations to acknowledge the start of a new year may draw Hamiltonians out of their homes this weekend after an icy start to the holiday season.

With no snow in the forecast, winter-break activities like tobogganing and outdoor skating may be off the table. But there’s plenty to do indoors and out in the Hamilton and Burlington areas, with or without the kids.

So, put down your crosswords and ditch the pyjamas for a weekend of fun in the city.

Get lost in a wintery maze

If the 1986 David Bowie fantasy film wasn’t enough, try your hand at a real-life puzzle of walls and paths.

Wind your way through Hamilton’s newly built Giant Winter Maze, which celebrated its grand opening Wednesday. In place of the Goblin King, you’ll find a hot chocolate bar, fires to roast marshmallows, holiday music and more waiting at the exit.

The maze is located at the Ancaster Fairgrounds, and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Jan. 8.

Cost: $12.99 plus tax for adults, and $9.99 plus tax for kids ages three to 12. For tickets, visit www.thegiantmaze.com

Have a laugh at Corktown Pub’s comedy night

Skip the New Year’s Eve sequins and lineups, and head to Corktown Pub for a Friday night of laughter, tunes and cold beer.

The historic 175 Young Street East pub is hosting a “New Year’s Pre-Hangover Comedy Show,” a night of live standup comedy, on Dec. 30. Headliner Jay Freeborn will be followed by DJ Eric Meloche with a set of 1980s and 1990s hits.

Cost: $14 ($15 at the door)

Laser tag lock-in

Travel into the new year at the speed of laser at Lazer Mania’s New Year’s Eve “lock in.”

Join fellow players at the 865 Upper James St. arcade and laser tag spot for an “all-you-can-play” party from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., with exclusive games — including Zombie Infection, Dracula and Capture the Flag — pizza and refreshments.

Cost: Advance tickets are $35 and include food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Play disc golf at King’s Forest

From now until March 11, athletes can enjoy a championship-level winter disc golf course at King’s Forest Golf Course. The City of Hamilton’s 18-hole course was designed by Chris Ozolins of the Ontario Disc Sports Association.

Equipment is available to borrow or buy on site.

Cost: 18 holes for $6 or a full day for $10, plus taxes. Seasonal memberships are also available. Tickets can be purchased a week in advance at the King’s Forest pro shop at 905-546-4781.

Count down to noon at the library for New Year’s Eve