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Hot Date: Hail to the King (of Pop)

A storyboard of Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour

OCTOBER 21 TO 23 Experience the incredible music-and-choreography combination of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil, as the renowned company presents Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour. In this vivid tribute, a cast of 60 acrobats, tumblers, jugglers and more bring the King of Pop’s musical world back to life, recalling his charismatic stage presence, exciting dance moves, unforgettable songs that could include “Thriller” and “Beat It,” as well as his message of peace, love and unity. Air Canada Centre, Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m., $50 to $250; call 416-870-8000 or visit here to purchase tickets.

30 Things We Love About Toronto This October

3. Medieval Times

1. The wonder of liquid nitrogen ice cream from Colborne Lane prepared tableside.

2. Catching a live performance by the iconic Liza—with a z—Minnelli on October 28.

3. Jousting knights on horseback at Medieval Times.

4. Seeing the city on two wheels with the rental of Bixi Bikes; return them to many conveniently located docking stations in the downtown core.

5. Serpentine sculptures handmade by Native Canadian artists from Eskimo Art Gallery. (more…)

Weekend Roundup, July 15 to 17

Friday: Hear all manner of music as the Beaches International Jazz Festival begins

Friday, July 15
Kick off your weekend at the 23rd annual Beaches International Jazz Festival, which begins tonight at Woodbine Park. With acts ranging from jazz, blues, calypso and more—legendary Toronto rocker Carole Pope is even part of this evening’s bill—the festival offers ear candy for a wide variety of listeners.

The Colombian Colours Il Diaspora Festival also starts this evening an continues all weekend long. Part of Harbourfront Centre‘s summer line-up of cultural celebrations, it features performances by Colombian musicians, dancers and other artists proudly representing their distinct heritage.

Do you have tickets to see Grammy-winning sensation Taylor Swift belt out her hits at the Air Canada Centre? The contemporary country singer’s Speak Now Tour brings one of 2011′s hottest concerts to Toronto for one night only.

Saturday: Sarah Harmer and other artists celebrate Parks Canada's 100th anniversary

Saturday, July 16
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Parks Canada—the world’s first national park service—with a free festival on Centre Island. Starting at noon, the special Parks Day event showcases the country’s diverse natural heritage, and boasts live performances by musicians including Serena Ryder and Sarah Harmer.

Yonge-Dundas Square also offers an event for the environmentally aware—the Live Green Toronto Festival features hundreds of vendors with eco-friendly products, live music and more.

Sit back and relax with Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band at the Molson Canadian Ampitheatre. The “Margaritaville” singer instills a beachy state of mind as part of his Welcome to Fin Land tour.

Sunday: Slurp up some seafood at the Souther Ontario Oyster Festival

Sunday, July 17
Foodies are invited to take part in a truly succulent tasting at the much-anticipated Southern Ontario Oyster Festival hosted by Toronto’s mollusk mecca Rodney’s Oyster House. Attendees can enjoy live music, cheer on the oyster shucking contest, and, of course, indulge in fresh oysters. Tickets are $30 and help benefit the Environmental Defense organization.

Spend your Sunday night with British indie-rock band Gomez as they fill the Phoenix Concert Theatre with their distinctively rootsy sound.

Experience the rich culture of the Asian subcontinent at the 39th annual Festival of India, taking place on the Toronto Islands. This free event, celebrating Toronto’s large Indian community, includes an arts and culture showcase, a South-Asian bazaar, and much more.

Hot Date: Calling All Gleeks!

JUNE 11 & 12 Freed from the small screen, the talented cast of Glee performs infectious renditions of music from the TV show’s first two seasons—from “Don’t Stop Believin’” to “Empire State of Mind.” Air Canada Centre, 3 and 8 p.m., $49.50 to $89.50; call 1-855-958-5000 or visit Ticketmaster to buy.

Weekend Roundup, May 13th to May 15th

Friday: See Diego Matamoros in The Aleph (photo by Cylla von Tiedemann)

Friday, May 13
Get a glimpse into the mysteries of the underworld in The Aleph, Soulpepper Theatre Company’s version of Jorge Luis Borges’s 1945 short story. This thought-provoking adaptation is crafted by Canadian theatre artists Diego Matamoros, Daniel Brooks and Michael Levine.

The cycle of life—from Bar Mitzvah to death—is presented through Jewish musical-theatre songs in the world premiere of To Life, presented by the Harold Green Jewish Theatre Company at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts. Filled with love and humour, this unique musical references Broadway hits such as Fiddler on the Roof and the work of Eddie Cantor.

The Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival continues this weekend with the opening of another of its many exhibitions—Kaid Ashton’s Exploration, on display at artsy West Queen West café, The Mascot.

Saturday: Usher offers a powerhouse performance (photo by Marco from Houston)

Saturday, May 14
Are you ready to burn? Multi-platinum artist Usher turns up the temperature at the Air Canada Centre tonight with his signature R&B hits such as “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” and “Burn.” The night starts off on the right note with a special guest set by Akon.

The competition heats up at BMO Field when Toronto FC takes on the Chicago Fire. Be sure to offer some extra applause for TFC forward Joao Plata, just voted MLS Player of the Week.

Ornithology enthusiasts are encouraged to flock to the Toronto Zoo for International Migratory Bird Day. Bring your binoculars and participate in guided bird-watching tours of the Rouge Valley, then check out the displays set up by bird-related organizations in the Conservation Connection Centre.

Sunday: See "Vicky" the steam train, one of the stars of The Railway Children

Sunday, May 15
Catch the train as the newly built Roundhouse Theatre opens its doors this morning. Visitors to this 300,000-square-foot venue that houses The Railway Children can get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the unique stage design, see the production’s vintage steam train up close, ride a miniature locomotive, and discover the heritage trains within Roundhouse Park.

In the thrilling conclusion to the National Lacrosse League’s season, the Toronto Rock challenge the Washington Stealth for the 2011 Champion’s Cup at the Air Canada Centre. Last season, Washington defeated Toronto to win their first cup in franchise history. This time around, the Rock and their fans are certain to be hungry for revenge!

Enjoy a spirited show by the Esprit Orchestra—featuring violinist Marie Bérard—this evening at Keorner Hall. The program includes a world premiere performance of composer Chris Harman’s latest work.

Weekend Roundup, April 29th to May 1st

Friday: Celebrate the royal wedding at the Fairmont Royal York's Library Bar

Friday, April 29
If you weren’t invited to Westminster Abbey for the regal wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William but still want to celebrate the affair in style, the Fairmont Royal York Hotel‘s Library Bar hosts the early-morning telecast. Starting at 5 a.m., a traditional English breakfast will be served—with tea, of course.

They’ve skated the world, now the Stars on Ice are lacing up to bring their spectacular show back to Toronto’s Air Canada Centre. Catch such figure skating champions as Kurt Browning and Joannie Rochette—as well as 2010 Olympic ice dancing gold-medalists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir—as they perform their signature routines.

Stroll through the historic Distillery Historic District’s weekly Art Market, which features a range of local exhibitors selling artwork and crafts—from paintings and prints to ceramics and fibre art. You might also find a treasure amongst the jewellery, photography and clothing on sale at the Case Goods Warehouse, which hosts an Open Studios event in conjunction with the main market.

Saturday: Find out why Conan O'Brien Can't Stop at a Hot Docs screening

Saturday, April 30
The renowned Hot Docs festival is now in full swing, presenting almost 200 of the world’s best contemporary non-fiction films. Today’s lineup includes such lauded documentaries as Wiebo’s War, which tells the story of oil activists in Alberta, and Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop.

Mixed martial arts arrives in Toronto as the UFC debuts to a sold-out Rogers Centre crowd. For those without a ticket to see Canada’s Georges St-Pierre defend his title, but who still want a piece of the action, the UFC Fan Expo takes over the Direct Energy Centre. Fans can meet fighters, participate in demos and browse the gear. (Or, on Sunday, visit The Bay‘s Queen Street location between noon and 2 p.m. for an autograph session with former champ Randy Couture.)

Examine the nature of forgiveness at a performance of The Monument, a drama presented by Rwanda’s Isoko Theatre at Harbourfront Centre. Developed by Canadian playwright Colleen Wagner, this award-winning story of a young soldier convicted of war crimes is told through an electrifying performance of theatre, song and African drumming.

Sunday: One of Contact's primary exhibitions features Lemonade Igloo, by photographer Scarlett Hooft Graafland (image courtesy of Michael Hoppen Gallery)

Sunday, May 1
The annually anticipated Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival officially opens today with exhibitions at more than 200 venues throughout the city. This year’s theme focuses on the concept of gestalt—how our senses apprehend form as a whole—and the ever-shifting dynamics between subjects and settings, humanity and nature, or, as the festival puts it, “figure and ground.” Be sure to check out the festival hub at the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art.

Discover a fresh new sound when alternative rock duo The Kills perform tonight at the Sound Academy. They’ll be showcasing a mix of not-so-old favourites and new tracks from their recent album, Blood Pressures. Cold Cave and The Entrance Band open.

The puck drops on the pavement at the Danforth Charity Road Hockey Challenge and Spring Fair, which proceeds all afternoon between Ellerbeck to Jackman roads. Cheer on the 24 teams battling to become this year’s champions. In between the action, visitors can peruse various food and clothing vendors and be entertained by local bands.

Hot Dining: E11even an Addition to Applaud

Maple Leaf Square is fast becoming a top downtown entertainment destination. Directly west of the Air Canada Centre—and steps from the Rogers Centre, too—the space buzzes before, during and after Leafs and Raptors games thanks to a huge outdoor TV showing ongoing games and a swanky sports bar with even more screens. Now, upscale restaurant E11even makes room for a more discerning clientele. Named for the eleven points of a maple leaf, the dark-woods-and-leather dining room specializes in North American favourites like baby back ribs ($29) and dry-aged New York strip steak ($55). The 600-label iPad wine list—with 33 by-the-glass options—is designed to be a crowd pleaser, too.

Weekend Roundup, April 1st to 3rd

Friday: Peruse funky bowls by Carolyne Brouillard and many other items at the One of a Kind Spring Show

Friday, April 1
Artists, designers and shoppers unite! The always anticipated One of a Kind Spring Show has begun, and runs through to this Sunday at Exhibition Place’s Direct Energy Centre. Here, 450 artisans offer unique, handmade art, clothing, accessories and designs for purchase. This year, the show features a Muskoka Artists Marketplace as well as workshops and seminars on home design.

In the same vein, the International Home & Garden Show also takes place this weekend at the International Centre, just west of Toronto. Hundreds of home experts, interior designers and landscaping professionals will be on hand for consultation, offering thousands of products and ideas to help freshen up your home this spring.

A new Major League Baseball season begins tonight as the Toronto Blue Jays go to bat against Minnesota Twins. The game at the Rogers Centre is officially sold out (yes, all 50,000 seats), but you can catch the game with the locals at Real Sports Bar & Grill or Wayne Gretzky’s.

Saturday: Rod Steward joins Stevie Nicks for an evening of song (photo by Mark Seliger)

Saturday, April 2
Catch Toronto FC in the second game of its fledgling Major League Soccer season, as the boys in red square off against Chivas USA from Carson, California. The match starts at 1 p.m. at BMO Field, just steps from the popular Liberty Village neighbourhood. Before the game, fill up on some comforting brunch dishes at School Bakery & Café or Mildred’s Temple Kitchen.

The St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts offers two chances (at 2 and 8 p.m.) to hear A Little Nightmare Music, with classical musicians and YouTube sensations Aleksey Igudesman and Hyung-ki Joo. The duo has taken the world by storm with their unique and hilarious theatrical show that combines classical music with popular culture.

On Saturday evening, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Rod Stewart and Stevie Nicks bring their Heart & Soul Tour to the Air Canada Centre. A “can’t-miss” concert event, the distinctive singers are slated to perform hits from their catalogs, as well as some duets.

Sunday: Partake in historical fare at Fort York (photo by Webguy63)

Sunday, April 3
History is made fun at Fork York National Historic Site, in the heart of downtown Toronto. The heritage site hosts a Historical Food Tasting and Tea experience from 1 to 3 p.m., including samples of old-fashioned food recipes from the fort’s restored 1826 kitchen, plus tea and the freedom to explore the rest of the site.

Starting today, a new exhibit at the Art Gallery of Ontario features the evolution of 20th-century Inuit art. Inuit Modern: the Samuel & Esther Sarick Collection showcases more than 175 works, including pieces by David Ruben Piqtoukun, Kenojuak Ashevak, Karoo Ashevak, and Lucy Tasseor.

In support of Raising the Roof’s Youthworks initiative, the All-Star Comedy Cabaret is just one aspect of this weekend’s April Fool’s Weekend of Comedy festival. Taking place at 7:30 p.m. at The Second City, the fundraiser is hosted by Steve Patterson of CBC’s The Debaters and features comedians like CBC’s Pete Zedlacher (Just For Laughs, The Hour), Almost Heroes’ Ryan Bellevill, CityTV’s Jonny Harris, David Merry, Evan Carter and Shaun Majumder.

The 40th Annual Juno Awards Rock Toronto

Drake hosts the 40th Juno Awards on March 27 (photo by Anthony Mandler)

Canada’s prestigious music awards, the Junos, mark their 40th anniversary with a return home. To celebrate, Toronto-born rapper Drake leads a pack of award-winning artists from coast to coast for a harmonious tribute.

THE RISE OF DRAKE
Superstars aren’t born everyday—nor is such a label freely given. But hip hop artist Drake is undeniably one, having been recognized not only by peers including mentor Lil Wayne, Jay-Z and Kanye West, but also by fans who made his first studio album, Thank Me Later, a platinum-selling hit. Even non-fans are likely familiar with the artist for his role as Jimmy Brooks on the TV show Degrassi: The Next Generation, as well as for his life-meets-rap lyrics, which get plenty of airtime on mainstream radio. Among the Forest Hill-raised performer’s chart-topping songs is the swooning ballad “Find Your Love” and the rhythmic “Fancy.”

On March 27, Drake secures double time on the stage at the Air Canada Centre as both the host of the 40th edition of the Juno Awards and as a nominee—and potential winner. The rapper is nominated for several awards, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year. (Drake was also nominated for four Grammy Awards including Best New Album.) Soon, Drake will release his sophomore album, Take Care. It will undoubtedly earn him Juno nominations next year.

The awards ceremony itself is only part of this month’s Juno celebrations. Read on after the jump for more music-related fun.

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Hot Date: Go Gaga Again

MARCH 3 Part singer, part provocateur, Lady Gaga brings her Monster Ball tour back to Toronto. The pop songstress is as well-known for her outrageous costumes as she is for such songs as “Poker Face” and “Just Dance.” Air Canada Centre, 8 p.m., $49.50 to $175; call 416-870-8000 or visit Ticketmaster to buy.

Weekend Roundup, December 17th to 19th

It’s the final weekend before Christmas and there is a lot more to do in the city than just shop. If you’re looking for a break from holiday cheer or hoping to dive into it a week early Toronto’s got you covered.

Friday: Rock on with Alexisonfire

Friday, December 17th
The classic tale of Dr Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas premieres tonight at the Sony Centre. This holiday favourite is given the Broadway treatment with fantastic sets, terrific costumes and all-new songs.

St. Catharines natives Alexisonfire return to their roots with an all-ages show tonight at Sound Academy. Expect to rock out to tunes from their recent album, Old Crows/Young Cardinals, as well as many of their past hits.

Television personality Gerry Dee brings his comedic stylings to the Panasonic Theatre stage with his Gerry Dee and Friends Holiday Show. Canadian comedians Darrin Rose and Frank Spadone also drop in for so stand-up hilarity.

Saturday: See the intriguing movements of Studies in Motion (photo by Tim Matheson)

Saturday, December 18th
Climb aboard the Mariposa Cruises‘ Northern Spirit ship for its family-oriented Santa Cruise. This afternoon tour of the Toronto harbour offers children the chance to meet Santa and his elves while taking in Toronto’s iconic skyline.

Tonight presents your last chance to see Studies in Motion at the St. Lawrence Centre’s Bluma Appel Theatre. The well-reviewed play examines the life of the brilliant yet troubled artist Eadweard Muybridge.

The Toronto Children’s Chorus performs tonight at Roy Thomson Hall. Ruth Watson Henderson’s The Last Straw will be sung by the ensemble’s 300-plus children. Its 150-voice Alumni Choir is also be featured as part of this joyous concert.

Sunday: Cheer on Andrea Bargnani and the Raptors

Sunday, December 19th
The Los Angeles Lakers may be one of the most imposing squads in the National Basketball Association, but somehow our Toronto Raptors always manage to put up a good fight. Head to the Air Canada Centre this afternoon to see if Andrea Bargnani, Amir Johnson and the rest of the Raptors can come out on top.

Catch a performance of Stephen Sondheim’s hilarious farce, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, at the Canon Theatre. This baudy musical is sure to have you rolling in the aisles.

Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Handel’s Messiah. Today you can hear it twice: the Toronto Symphony Orchestra offers “Toronto’s Biggest Messiah” at Roy Thomson Hall—featuring more than 60 instruments—while the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir encourage audience participation in its Sing-Along Messiah, a long-time Toronto tradition.

Weekend Roundup, December 10 to 12

Friday: Help Wintersleep raise money for the Daily Bread Food Bank (photo by Dustin Rabin)

Friday, December 10
Help support the Daily Bread Food Bank by jamming to Jingle Bell Rock. Venerable Canadian indie rockers Wintersleep are one of five bands performing at the Phoenix Concert Theatre for a worthy cause.

The Canadian Children’s Dance Theatre employs eclectic modern dance and ballet to illuminate a tapestry of solstice traditions in its 23rd annual installment of Wintersong— Dances for a Sacred Season. Marvel at the grace of these young performers tonight (and Saturday afternoon) at Harbourfront Centre.

Enjoy the soaring strains of the boys of St.Michael’s Choir School, which presents its 71st annual Christmas Fantasy concert. The holiday harmonies of these talented young singers fill Massey Hall tonight and tomorrow.

Saturday: Cheer on Dion Phaneuf (just back from injury) and the rest of the Maple Leafs

Saturday, December 11
Are you still looking for that special present for someone on your holiday gift list? The 401 Richmond Artisans Marketplace offers truly unique selections from numerous local artists. Browse through the diverse designs to find something that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Let Forte: The Toronto Men’s Chorus serenade you with its performance of Four Strong Winds—Songs for a Canadian Winter at the Metropolitan United Church. In addition to classic seasonal favourites, the group will sing tunes by Stan Rogers, Ian Tyson, Joni Mitchell and Sarah McLachlan.

Our hometown hockey heroes—the Toronto Maple Leafs—renew their age-old rivalry with Montreal Canadians tonight. Find your seat at the Air Canada Centre to see if the buds can get back on a winning track.

Sunday: Take heart in the soaring songs performed by André Rieu

Sunday, December 12
Experience a witty interactive theatre twist on a classic holiday tale as DuffleBag Theatre Company performs its version of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. The show will have you and your family rolling in the Solar Stage Theatre aisles.

Hurry, hurry! The holidays are coming to an end in the Distillery Historic District—its Toronto Christmas Market concludes today. Don’t miss out on foraging through the fairy tale forest maze that leads to Santa’s house and Rudolph’s reindeer zoo.

Don’t miss a celebration of classical music as entertaining violinist, conductor and composer André Rieu—accompanied by his 55-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra—brings joyous waltzes, polkas and romantic ballads to the Air Canada Centre.

Weekend Roundup, November 26th to 28th

This weekend, art, comedy, music, dance, and a great winter celebration are sure to entertain (and keep your mind off of the increasingly cold weather).

Friday: Learn about the creative genesis of Tim Burton films such as Mars Attacks!

Friday November 26th
The work of Tim Burton is celebrated with an enormous, acclaimed exhibition at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Drawings, storyboards, and even pieces from Burton’s personal collection are just some of the items comprising this examination of the idiosyncratic American auteur.

See (and hear) Barbie as never before in Barbie at the Symphony at the Sony Centre. This production combines well-loved Barbie Princess films with live classical-music accompaniment performed by the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

Comedic scenes, songs, and improv make up The Second City’s Dysfunctional Holiday Revue. Catch a matinee performance of this hilarious alternative to the traditional holiday show. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon and get into that good old holiday spirit.

Saturday: Revel in the illumination of the Cavalcade of Lights

Saturday November 27th
Get three ballets in one tonight as the National Ballet of Canada presents Chroma, Serenade and Emergence as a triple bill. The first dance pairs classical dancing with the music of The White Stripes. The second is a plotless piece that focuses solely on the beauty of dance, while the final work explores the pressures of social norms.

The unveiling of Toronto’s official Christmas tree occurs tonight at the Cavalcade of Lights. Fireworks and live performances by such acts as Shawn Desman will all be taking place in celebration at Nathan Phillips Square.

Ozzy Osbourne, arguably one of the most entertaining men in rock and roll, strides on to the Air Canada Centre stage to perform tracks from his new album, Scream, as well as some past hits. It’s sure to be an interesting night with this former reality star in the spotlight.

Sunday: Catch a final glimpse of Canadian conceptual art

Sunday November 28th
Wicked, the enthralling tale of the witches of Oz in the days before Dorothy, takes its final bow today at the Canon Theatre. Beautiful (and award-winning) costumes, sets and singing make this a definite must-see!

It’s also your last chance to check out the challenging works featured in Traffic: Conceptual Art in Canada 1965-1980. This exhibition, displayed across four different galleries, curates an important period in the development of modern Canadian art.

Thrill to the magnificent musicality of pianist Stewart Goodyear, who performs this evening at the Royal Conservatory’s Koerner Hall. Praised for his creativity, Goodyear is set to showcase his skills with a selection of Beethoven sonatas.

Hot Dates: Bieber’s Back

NOVEMBER 23 Teen sensation Justin Bieber performed in Toronto mere months ago, but since then his namesake fever has spread even more. He’ll attempt to cure what ails his fervent fans by crooning such hits as “Baby” and “Never Let You Go.” Air Canada Centre, 7 p.m., $36.25 to $56.25; call 416-870-8000 or visit Ticketmaster to attempt to purchase tickets.

Hot Dining: Catch the Action at Real Sports Bar & Grill

No tickets for the evening’s Leafs or Raptors game? Don’t fret! You can watch Toronto’s pro teams compete in comfort at Real Sports Bar & Grill. Directly adjacent to the Air Canada Centre, this massive meeting place boasts 199 televisions, including North America’s largest indoor high-definition screen, in addition to a surprisingly swanky atmosphere. Food and drink options also befit the aspirations of what is a decidedly untraditional sports bar—the varied menu features upscale comfort fare cooked from scratch and complemented by 36 domestic and imported beers on tap.

Weekend Roundup, September 17 to 19

Though fall is approaching, the fun doesn’t stop! Toronto still hosts plenty of events both indoors and out to ensure a memorable weekend!

Be amused and amazed by Banana Shpeel this weekend.

Friday, September 17
Step into the Art Gallery of Ontario to see the just-opened exhibition Shary Boyle: Flesh and Blood. Almost 30 of the award-winning artist’s playful yet unsettling works are on display.

Get an artist’s perspective on one of the worst environmental disasters of our time—Nicholas Metivier Gallery presents Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky’s latest series of images, this time of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Also on display are Polaroid photos taken by Burtynsky in the ship-breaking yards of Bangladesh.

Immerse yourself in South American culture at Harbourfront Centre as the Vibrant Colombia Dispora Festival kicks off a weekend of family fun. Activities tonight include exhibitions of Colombian art plus performances by marimba player Louis Bianco and the Ballet Raices de Colombia.

Saturday, September 18
Prog rock fans, take note: Former Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters takes to the Air Canada Centre stage tonight to commemorate the 30th anniversary of his band’s classic album, The Wall.

An even heavier rock experience awaits at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre, thanks to ’90s grunge band Alice in Chains. The Grammy-nominated trio is sure to riff on its back catalogue and perform tracks from their latest album, Black Gives Way to Blue.

Step back in time at Black Creek Pioneer Village‘s annual Pioneer Festival. This historic site celebrates the autumn harvest numerous old-timey events and activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, cider-making demonstrations, a spelling bee, a popular quilt auction and international music and dance performances.

Sunday, September 19
Prepare to laugh, smile and gasp with Cirque du Soleil’s Banana Shpeel at the Canon Theatre! At this unique spectacle, death-defying acrobatic acts are paired with vaudeville-style slapstick comedy from quirky characters.

Help some talented local musicians bring the Summer Music in the Garden series of classical concerts to a close. Beneath the boughs of the Toronto Music Garden, Shauna and Friends perform a variety of chamber music compositions for strings.

Take in the ever-popular Queen West Art Crawl, featuring numerous local galleries and artists—more than 500 of whom will be displaying their colourful works at Trinity Bellwoods Park.

Weekend Roundup, August 6 to 8

Rock the weekend with a slew of musical performances, or take some time to appreciate good food, great drinks, and even some tennis!

Friday: Hear the world-music stylings of Dominic Mancuso

Friday, August 6
Explore our urban environment from a different perspective. The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art‘s large-scale group exhibition, Empire of Dreams, showcases works by Toronto-based artists that examine the dynamic interactions between humans and their surroundings.

Spend some time browsing the bounty of beautiful vintage furniture, decor accessories, jewellery, apparel and more at the Summer Antiques Show. This annual event at Sherway Gardens is a treasure-hunter’s dream.

Make tracks to Yonge-Dundas Square this evening and let King Sunshine capture enliven spirit with music. With a fusion of disco, funk and house beats, this dynamic group will have you dancing the night away.

Sway to the multicultural singer-songwriter stylings of Dominic Mancuso. The Juno-winning Italian-Canadian takes the stage tonight at Lula Lounge.

Saturday: Mezzo-soprano Roxana Constantinescu performs at the Summer Music Festival

Saturday, August 7
Bear witness to boundless creativity during the SummerWorks Theatre Festival. Dozens of innovative plays are on-stage today—at such venues as the Factory Theatre and Theatre Passe Muraille—to satistfy any dramatic preference.

Eat, drink and be merry at Toronto’s Festival of Beer. The popular event floods Exhibition Place with more than 120 types of beers from 60 brewers, plus a variety of finger foods to satisfy your hunger.

Enjoy a Free Family Weekend at the Rogers Cup tennis tournament. On top of the chance to see the tourney’s qualifying-round action at the Rexall Centre, kids of all ages can enjoy plenty of games, activities, free tennis lessons and lots of prizes to be won.

The Toronto Summer Music Festival is still going strong. Tonight, Roxana Constantinescu and Gordon Gietz come together for a powerful operatic performance of Mahler’s Song of the Earth—reimagined for a chamber ensemble—plus the world premiere of composer Glenn Buhr’s Red Sea.

Sunday: Paul McCartney's back at the ACC

Sunday, August 8
Feast on delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine today as the ever-popular Taste of the Danforth. Mixing culture, history, food and community, this enormous street festival celebrates the flavours of Greece (and Toronto’s own Greektown) with live performances, activities and, of course, a whole lot of Hellenic cuisine.

Hear some of your favourite Beatles and Wings classics anew as Paul McCartney brings his Höfner bass to the Air Canada Centre. Though he’s been in the business for more than 40 years, Sir Paul retains the energy of youth, as his “Up and Coming” tour attests.

Complete your weekend with laugh-out-loud sketch comedy at The Second City. The talented crew’s show, An Evening with Second City, gathers highlights from past performances along with new jabs at current affairs and lots of fresh improvisation.

Experience classical music like never before at Harbourfront Centre‘s What is Classical? festival. One of its intriguing elements is The Labyrinth Project, which uses the structure of a maze to help listeners contemplate the musicality of different instruments.

Hot Date: Macca’s Back

AUGUST 8 & 9 After enthralling audiences for decades with The Beatles and then Wings, Paul McCartney still knows how to sell out a show. Now flying solo, Sir Paul performs the hits that have made him famous—including “Hey Jude,” “The Long and Winding Road” and many, many others—during his two-night stand in Toronto. Air Canada Centre, 7:30 p.m., $57.25 to $250; call 416-870-8000 or visit Ticketmaster to purchase.

Hot Date: Lady Power

JULY 11 & 12 Eccentric pop diva Lady Gaga rides her disco stick—along with her multitude of outlandish and barely-there costumes—into town for two nights as part of her self-described “pop-electro opera” Monster Ball concert tour. No need to put on your poker face or pretend that you’re k-kinda busy. Just dance like you’re her biggest fan. Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah! Air Canada Centre, 8 p.m., $49.50 to $175; call Ticketmaster at 416-870-8000 or click here to charge.

Weekend Roundup, July 9 to 11

The pressing heat wave calls for a distraction. You’re sure to find one amongst the shows and events taking place this weekend.

Friday: The musical Miss Saigon is sure to enthrall audiences

Friday, July 9
Experience the enduring story of Miss Saigon. Based on Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, this musical tragedy tells of a young American soldier and a Vietnamese girl who fall in love, only to be torn apart by the circumstances of war.

Start licking your chops. Toronto’s Summerlicious dining event begins today, with more than 150 restaurants—from Ame to Zucca—offering special three-course prix fixe menus to satisfy eager appetites.

Head over to the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre for a sure-to-satisfy concert by Juno Award–winning indie band Metric. Also on the bill are Passion Pit and Toronto’s Holy F**K.

Saturday: Legendary rapper Rakim headlines Harbourfront Centre's Beats, Breaks & Culture

Saturday, July 10
Hum along with melodies by the Fab Four at Rain —A Tribute to the Beatles. This multimedia exploration of the band’s memorable music recreates many career highlights, from their appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show to Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and much more.

Break it down this weekend at Harbourfront Centre’s returning Beats, Breaks & Culture festival. Groove to some excellent emerging electronic-music acts—plus a free show by hip-hop legend Rakim (9:30 p.m.)—try your hand on the turntables, or cheer for your favourite freestyle dancer in the Pop, Lock & Load Break Dance competition.

Celebrate summer as it’s meant to be experienced—outdoors. Close to 400 artists gather at Nathan Phillips Square for the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, North America’s largest open-air juried art fair. Stroll between the paintings, photographs and sculptures while mingling with local art lovers.

Sunday: Lady Gaga brings her act to the Air Canada Centre

Sunday, July 11
You might not be able to maintain that poker face, Lady Gaga swoops into the Air Canada Centre with outrageous costumes, provocative set pieces and tunes like “Bad Romance,” as part of her current Monster Ball concert tour.

Laugh, cry or sing along as more than 800 Canadian theatrical performers continue to break their proverbial legs as part of the Toronto Fringe Festival. Enjoy an after-show beer and nightly entertainment at Honest Ed’s, this year’s host of the Fringe Club.

Catch Carlos Santana live at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre. The famed classic-rock guitarist jams this evening with special guest Steve Winwood.