Something has crash landed right in the middle of Jackson Square in downtown Hamilton! And it's calling all explorers, sci-fi fanatics, and fun-seekers to embark on a galactic adventure like no other.

Running from Feb. 1 to Feb. 17, Winterfest POP: NOVA is a 12,000 sq. ft. exploration space located within a giant pop-up spaceship — and it looks set to be one of the season's best events.

The attractions here are nothing short of epic. Inside, you'll discover battle recreations, games, amusement rides, collections of space relics (and creatures!), a bar, a star-gazing portal, and more.

Ready to blast off to another dimension? Here's a closer look at what's in store. 

Intergalactic activities

Star Wars fans can check out a jaw-dropping recreation of The Empire Strikes Back’s Battle of Hoth, featuring over 1,500 3D-printed figures, ships, droids, and bots.

Meanwhile, E.T. fans can hop on a BMX bike — red hoodie and all — and snap an Insta-worthy picture to remember.

You can also speed through the desert in Luke Skywalker’s landspeeder at the Sand Zone, discover hands-on science and interactive experiments at The LAB, and get lost in the beauty of space at the mesmerizing star-gazing portal installation.

Or, dive into the Games Zone for a few rounds of alien wack-a-mole, mini putt, and pinball.

Art lovers won’t want to miss the Golden MiniFig Challenge, which features 50 concrete LEGO minifigs painted by regional artists, all of whom are competing for the top prize. There’s also a PAC-MAN-inspired exhibit with never-before-seen creations from @pacman.all.you.can.eat.

Of course, no interstellar journey is complete without a pit stop at the gift shop, stocked with out-of-this-world finds curated by artists, crafters, and collectors.

And, if you need to take a breather, you can refuel with a creative and refreshing beverage at the QWERTY Space Bar.

Nova After Dark

When the sun sets, the spaceship transforms into NOVA AFTER DARK, a 19+ playground packed with live music, art battles, DJs, and more.

Enjoy musical performances by Soulquarium and Allegory and check out an awesome Frost Queens drag performance by Greek-Canadian drag queen Pythia.

Witness thrilling art wars, where artists use vintage Star Wars ships as canvases; get a little mystical at Cosmic Divinations which offers tarot and astrology readings by Mystic Mojo; or don your best fit for the Cosplay and Costume Contest with DJ NeonBlack keeping the dancefloor moving. 

Tickets for Winterfest POP:NOVA are on sale now -- and you can get a 20% discount off your tickets by using the code "blogTO" at checkout from now until Feb. 1.

Winterfest POP:NOVA

• When: Feb. 1 to Feb. 17
• Where: 100 King Street West, Jackson Square
• Time: 
  • Wednesday to Friday, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Saturday t0 Sunday, 10:oo a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 
  • Family Day, 10:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. 

NOVA After Dark (19+ only) runs Wednesday through Sunday 9:00 p.m. to 1:oo a.m.