Distillery Historic District

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Distillery Historic District

Hot Dates: Counting Down Toronto’s New Year’s Eve-nts

Break out the bubbly. It's New Year's Eve! (photo by Anders Andermark)

Have you noticed more and more places selling calendars these days? Maybe, just maybe, it has something to do with the imminent arrival of 2012. Hang on though, your 2011 calendar can be put to use one last time to jot down your plans for December 31st. Consider the following to fill up that final square:

It wouldn’t really feel like New Year’s in Toronto without CityTV’s New Year’s Eve Bash at Nathan Phillips Square. The 27th annual installment of the bash comes complete with fireworks plus performances by Backstreet Boy Howie D and pop songstress Anjulie. (more…)

Where in Toronto: A Cockle-Warming Weekend at the Lowe’s Christmas Market

Even without snow, the Distillery Historic District can still feel Christmas-y (photo by Alexandra Grigorescu)

Each week, our intrepid interns reflect on life and times
in the big city.

Man is an animal. It’s clearest in the winter when once-social beings huddle under blankets and attempt to hibernate. I fold like a cheap suit at the first sign of cold (and run for cover when the month-long barrage of Christmas carols begins), so this past Saturday was an exercise in endurance that became an unexpected reminder of how tempting this city can be.

The morning began with my first-ever pilates experience.
A previously purchased Groupon was nearing expiration, so my boyfriend and I headed to Imprint Yoga, which offers compact drop-in classes (subject to availability), ostensibly perfect for beginners unfamiliar with the torturous contortions. As we bent, stretched and pulsed,
I thought longingly of breakfast in bed. I muttered curses under my breath. But as soon as the class concluded, I was surprised by a wonderful feeling of serenity, not unlike the post-traumatic bliss I imagine rescued castaways must experience. The endorphins
were powerful, so we decided to take Bixi bikes along the Lakeshore to our next stop:
The Lowe’s Christmas Market at the Distillery Historic District.

Editor's note: We just couldn't resist running a photo of this furry fellow (photo by Alexandra Grigorescu)

The Distillery District was not yet a-twinklin’ with lights when we arrived, but we were greeted by the familiar smells of fresh bread from Brick Street Bakery. Sandwiches were had: citrus tuna and braised lamb.
A carousel whirled youngsters, and a brave, bare-
shouldered bride.The artisans and chefs lining the cobblestone streets were cheerful, some strumming guitars to entertain the roaming tykes, while torches and grated fires offered momentary respite from the cold. Tastings of Glenfiddich, Amarula and eggnog were on offer, but I had a clear goal: the ferris wheel. We stood shivering in line behind excited children and were rewarded with a beautiful sight at the top: the sun setting over the skyline while below us, the Christmas Market’s lights came alive.

The holiday spirit tends not to grip me – some years, it gives me a good-natured pat, while others, we sit tersely across the dinner table and ask for the salt shaker in clipped tones. Poised above the Market, the scent of mulled wine wafting up towards me, the holiday spirit and I made nice. I’m still a far cry from trudging through snow to carol, but I might appreciate the kind impulse behind it. I might even crack a smile.

—Alexandra Grigorescu

Weekend Roundup, December 2 to 4

Friday: Diana Thorneycroft's Group of Seven Awkward Moments is among the images at Gallery TPW's Photorama

Friday, December 2
‘Tis the season to deck the halls with quality artwork. Photography enthusiasts need look no further than 25th anniversary of Gallery TPW’s Photorama show and sale, which has its public opening tonight. Then drop into Gallery 44 for its annual Wall-to-Wall sale, featuring framed and unframed works by Toronto artists.

Inject a bit of spirit into your holiday season with the Soulful Messiah, Quincy Jones’ award-winning R&B rendition of Handel’s classic. At Harbourfront Centre’s Fleck Dance Theatre, Ballet Creole celebrates its 10th year of performing this work with their signature blend of ballet, modern and African-Caribbean dance.

La Bohème’s timeless tale of artists grappling with love, death and paying the bills is well-suited to its new incarnation by theatre company Against the Grain. Puccini’s infamous opera is pulled into the present-day, translated into English and set entirely within the confines of bohemian hangout Tranzac.

There’s more to do after the jump!

Hot Shopping: Find “It” at Blackbird Vintage

photo by Craig Moy

If you’re in the market for some whimsy, look no further than Blackbird Vintage Finds, a new boutique in the Distillery Historic District. Owner Paula DiRenzo knows the city’s vintage decor scene well, having previously owned the posh uptown giftware shop Fleur de Terre. But don’t expect to find the same stock at these new digs. In place of the prim and proper are fun, even edgy items both big and small. DiRenzo has filled her exposed-brick space with a curious and eclectic selection that ranges from vintage typewriters, antique trophies and birdcages to metal letter blocks, religious crosses and globes. Looking for a holiday gift or a piece to take back to the folks at home? How about some notebooks, soaps or jewellery? Or for something really unexpected, a taxidermy bird?

Long Weekend Roundup, September 2 to 5

Friday: The TIFF Bell Lightbox hosts a new exhibition on costume design

Friday, September 2
Marvel at the strange and beautiful creations of costume designers at the TIFF Bell Lightbox‘s Canadian Film Gallery, where the exhibition Otherworldly: The Art of Canadian Costume Design opens today, with attire from Splice, The Thing, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus and other films on display.

Nod your head to the beat and revel in the rhymes as k-os brings his unique blend of rap ‘n’ roll to the CNE Bandshell at Exhibition Place.

Cheer on the Flyin’ Hawaiian Chad Owens at the Rogers Centre—he’ll be looking to run back a kick or two for the Toronto Argonauts when they take on the BC Lions in week 10 Canadian Football League action.

Saturday: Barbadian chef Paul Yellin is just one of the cooks in the Hot & Spicy Food Festival's kitchen

Saturday, September 3
Brace your taste buds for the Hot and Spicy Food Festival. Head down to the Harbourfront Centre to feast on fiery fare from around the world. Music, film, dance, and cooking demos are all on the menu.

Support the ongoing earthquake and tsunami relief effort in Japan at the Concert for Japan at Downsview Park. FTISLAND, Vas Vega, traditional Japanese drummers and others perform. Dress up as your favourite Japanese anime character for a chance to win $1,000.

Cool evening breezes and Shakespearean comedy await you at the Canadian Stage TD Dream in High Park. This outdoor performance of The Winter’s Tale comes complete with fairytales, shipwrecks, romantic misunderstandings and an original music score.

Sunday: There's more than the existing public sculptures to see during the Distillery District's artisan fair.

Sunday, September 4
Art spills onto the streets of The Distillery Historic District. Artisans at the Distillery features local artists showcasing their paintings, sculptures, pottery and more.

Get down at The Guvernment as a cast of all-star DJs rock the Labour of Love Festival. House and electro icon Benny Benassi will spin the records along with rising star Avicii and others.

Hispanic food, folklore and fancy footwork take over Mel Lastman Square in North Toronto for the Hispanic Fiesta. Colourful culture from 20 Spanish-speaking countries will be on display, with over 300 local, national and international performers taking part.

Monday: Pilot Michael Wiskus is one of the many daring flyers in the Canadian International Air Show

Monday, September 5
When you’ve had your fill of doughnut cheeseburgers and fried cola at The Ex, sit back, look up, and gaze at the Canadian International Air Show. Jet fighters, vintage aircraft, and the famed Snowbirds roar above Exhibition Place.

Samba at Yonge-Dundas Square and enjoy the best of Brazil. The Brazilian Day Canada Festival features a street fair, music, food, dancing and a performance by popular samba group Exaltasamba.

See the strength and solidarity of workers on display at the Labour Day Parade. The parade begins at Queen Street and University Avenue and marches to the Dufferin Gates at Exhibition Place.

Weekend Roundup, July 29 to 31

Friday: It's your next-to-last chance to see Next to Normal (photo by Craig Schwartz)

Friday, July 29
Tony- and Pulizter Prize-winning musical Next to Normal offers its final weekend of shows at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Don’t miss this contemporary musical, which is sure to captivate all audiences.

Celebrate African culture as the weekend-long TD Irie Music Festival opens tonight. The festival highlights reggae, salsa, soul and gospel music, and also offers performances from spoken word artists, African dance troupes and film screenings.

Visit the Distillery Historic District for its bustling Distillery Art Market, which features a wide variety of exhibiting artists and craftspeople working in a range of media.

Saturday: Yuck it up with Daniel Tosh

Saturday, July 30
Laugh out loud with Daniel Tosh, who brings his stand-up routine to hallowed Massey Hall. The comedian’s “Tosh Tour On Ice” entertains with two scheduled shows tonight at 7 and 10 p.m.

March down to Exhibition Place and Lake Shore Boulevard to see the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival‘s Grand Parade. The hugely popular annual extravaganza promises brightly colored costumes, festive calypso music and a lively celebration of Caribbean culture.

Watch in awe as LEGO hobbyists construct amazing creations with the colourful building blocks at Brickfete. Activities for the entire family include a LEGO robotics competition, LEGO mosaics and sculptures, and much more!

Sunday: Drake brings his friends to the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre (photo by Anthony Mandler)

Sunday, July 31
Toronto’s own Drake brings his A-game to the Molson Canadian Ampitheatre tonight as part of his second annual OVO Fest. The hip-hop chart-topper headlines, but you’ll also want to catch performances by the likes of Rick Ross, The Weeknd and other special guests.

Practice your swing as the Street Golf Tour rolls into Yonge-Dundas Square. Here, event goers can take part in PGA simulators, certified coaching clinics, and experiment with new technology for beginners and advanced players.

Heat up your weekend with Island Soul at Harbourfront Centre. The festival celebrates the Caribbean through cultural music, dancing and yet another lively parade!

Hot Shopping: Rice-y Proposition

photo by Gizelle Lau

Just a few months ago, Toronto’s first sake brewery, the Ontario Spring Water Sake Company, opened shop in the Distillery Historic District. Using fresh spring water from northern Ontario, the brewery distills a variety of sakes on-site, including a Junmai-style blend—an unpasteurized “pure rice” version of the Japanese beverage that’s not widely available in North America. Drop in to see the distillation process in action and sample the freshly pressed or aged sakes at the tasting bar. Should you like what you sip, the retail shop offers up the company’s sake and related ephemera.

Weekend Roundup: Canada Day Edition

Our national pride soars on Canada Day (photo by Will Spaetzle)

We’re all-Canadian for this edition of the roundup, as Canada’s 144th birthday is celebrated throughout the city (and nation-wide). On Friday, July 1, check out these fun-for-the-whole-family events and activities.

> Get up early and head north to Downsview Park for a special Canada Day breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets, you’ll be certain to return in the afternoon for a much-anticipated concert by the Tragically Hip, with special guests Broken Social Scene, Buck 65 and others.

> Harbourfront Centre is always busy on summer weekends, and this one is no exception, with Canada Day festivities—everything from a strawberry “culinary marathon” to a performance by Esthero—happening all day long.

> A favourite long weekend event, the annual Toronto Ribfest takes over Centennial Park. Live music and kid-friendly attractions keep the whole family entertained, but the real draw, of course, are the meaty barbecue offerings from some of North America’s best “ribbers.”

> Head to Yonge-Dundas Square for something a little different—the downtown venue hosts the fifth annual Multicultural Canada Day Celebration, presented by the Community Folk Art Council of Toronto. Starting at noon, this spirited party features music, dancing and more from a variety of cultures. Be sure to be hanging around at 7 p.m., when the special Bollywood dance party kicks off.

> And, of course, Canada Day wouldn’t be complete without a colourful fireworks display. The city’s biggest show takes place over Lake Ontario’s shore at Ontario Place, where free grounds admission makes finding an ideal viewing spot even easier this year. There are also crowd-pleasing fireworks displays occurring to the east (at Ashbridges Bay), the west (at Centennial Park), the north (at Mel Lastman Square) and even further north (at Canada’s Wonderland).

If you have any energy remaining, the rest of the weekend provides ample opportunity for entertainment, too!

> The TD Toronto Jazz Festival continues through to the end of the weekend, with headline performances by the likes of The Roots (on Friday night), Bootsy Collins (Saturday) and vocal powerhouse Nikki Yanofsky (Sunday)

> A distinctive culinary event comes to the Distillery Historic District on Saturday—Food Truck Eats gathers mobile fare purveyors from Toronto and elsewhere in southern Ontario, all offering samples of street fare such as tacos, poutine, smoked meat and more.

> One of Toronto’s biggest parties, the world-famous Pride Parade, marches down Church Street on Sunday afternoon, in a vibrant celebration of diversity and acceptance.

Contact Curated: Distillery Historic District

This year’s Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival features exhibitions at more than 200 venues across the city. Make the most of your festival experience by concentrating your gallery-hopping within specific Toronto neighbourhoods, such as the Distillery Historic District.

Shai Kremer's Turkish Railroad Station

Julie M. Gallery
Shai Kremer: Fallen Empires (May 5 to June 12)

Monumental ruins document the effect of imperial dominance on Israel’s architectural landscape in this series of images at Julie M. Gallery. Kremer explores the scarred terrain’s representation of cultural conflict, physical manifestations of power and resistance, and the normalization of violence.

Arta Gallery
Laura Carnie, Bob Carnie, Mark Freedman and Dennis Lalonde: Land Escapes (April 29 to May 15)

An examination of the power of perspective, and how the landscape can be viewed differently depending on varying attitudes and perceptions, which are constantly changing. This collection at Arta Gallery transitions from the natural beauty of the landscape to a haunting post-apocalyptic vision.

Ozant Kamaci, Salina Kassam, Marilyn Lightstone, Misha Masek, Mehraban Mehrabani, Atossa Nami, Kimia Rahgozar, Sue Russell, Reza Ta and Dave Todon: The Idea of Nature (May 18 to 31)

Ten artists come together to share perspective on the beautiful and tragic relationship between humanity and nature, by expressing his or her daily, personal interaction with our fragile planet.

An image from Sheila Jonah's La Cloche Mountains series

Proof Studio Gallery
John Drajewicz, Natalie Drajewicz, Sheila Jonah: F&G (April 30 to May 31)

Not just simple, objective representations, photographs can, in fact, destabilize one’s notion of reality. The images on display at Proof Studio Gallery tease the mind and engage thoughts with their ambiguous scale.

Pikto
Carlos Cazalis: Urban Shadows (May 1 to 31)

This pictorial journey through both the vastness of urban landscapes and the interiors of squatter shacks exposes the damaging effects of overpopulation on the environment. Osaka, Japan and Dhaka, Bangladesh are shown as examples of cities that reflect the growing disparity between economically underprivileged classes and the wealthy.

Monte Clark Gallery
Chris Gergley: Field Work (May 5 to June 12)

Large-scale colour photographs by Chris Gergley capture the contrast between man-made subjects and nature. Featured at Monte Clark Gallery, this exhibition investigates landscape and the subject’s relationship to its contemporary environment.

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Contact Photography Festival 2011: Distillery Historic District in a larger map

*All images courtesy of the Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival unless otherwise noted.

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.

Yours to Discover: Day Three

Winter’s on its way out; it’s time to get a head start on exploring. Guide yourself with our specialized itineraries, or contact one of Toronto’s many tour operators to delve deeper into this multifaceted metropolis. And don’t forget to check out previous Yours to Discover posts, here: Day One, Day Two.

Thompson Landry Gallery

TAKE A LOOK
Gallery-going made easy.

This city has a reputation as being staid and somewhat conservative, but when it comes to
the creative arts, it’s actually quite adventurous.
For proof, one need but stride down Queen Street—west of Trinity Bellwoods Park are numerous galleries operating on the leading edge
of the contemporary art scene. Among the area’s major denizens are Angell Gallery, conceptualist-leaning Clint Roenisch Gallery and photographic specialist Stephen Bulger Gallery. In recent years, the Museum
of Contemporary Canadian Art has become a major creative locus, thanks to its consistently well-curated shows and a new partnership with the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa.

Straight in the opposite direction, the Distillery Historic District hosts an equally varied mélange of artists and craftspeople. Within its restored industrial buildings you’ll be introduced to top Quebecois painters at Thompson Landry Gallery, internationally renowned contemporary works at Corkin Gallery and Clark and Faria, and even Israeli artists at Julie M Gallery. Local artisans sell their creative ceramics, jewellery and more at many other boutiques and studios here. You can even print your own images at photography hot spot Pikto.

Gallery Gevik and Feheley Fine Arts

Further north, posh Yorkville hosts many longstanding fine-art houses, the majority of which represent well-established painters and sculptors whose works have gained significant recognition. Keen to see recent pieces by Ed Bartram or Stephen Hutchings? Head to Mira Godard Gallery. Love the imagery crafted by Norval Morrisseau or Haida artist Robert Davidson? Kinsman Robinson Galleries has it in spades. Or find a new favourite at Loch Gallery, Feheley Fine Arts, Gallery Gevik and many more.

For an insider’s view of the West Queen West scene, look no further than an Art InSite tour with effervescent expert Betty Ann Jordan. And partaking in a Yorkville Art Walk offers a great primer of that district’s top galleries.

Yours to Discover: Day One

Henry Moore's Two Forms sit outside the AGO

SIGHTSEEING FOR SHUTTERBUGS
These landmarks are ready for their close up.

ALLAN GARDENS Featuring a glass domed Victorian-style “palm house” and an alluring architectural symmetry throughout its 16,000 square feet, Allan Gardens Conservatory is a popular photo-op spot. Venture inside for a lovely view of numerous flowers and plants, from orchids to cacti.

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO The arcing glass facade and titanium tower comprising this Frank Gehry-designed museum are prominent in the midst of a largely residential quarter. Directly south is another intriguing edifice: the floating “tabletop” of OCAD University’s Sharp Centre for Design.

CASA LOMA This Gothic Revival mansion in midtown keeps imposing watch over the city and is surrounded by five acres of gardens. Inside, visitors can explore nearly 100 opulently decorated rooms.

The Allen Lambert Galleria in Brookfield Place

CN TOWER One of the tallest buildings in the world, this concrete needle makes for an iconic image from the ground. Or, ascend to its observation decks and snap a sky-high panorama—on a clear day it’s possible to see for many kilometres into the distance.

CITY HALL Toronto’s seat of government is a modernist landmark—at the north end of Nathan Phillips Square sit two towers parenthetically embracing a saucer-like Council Chamber. Within its rotunda you can view a scale model of the city, plus a variety of public art works.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT Canada’s power brokers swing deals amidst this area’s superior structures, including the Santiago Calatrava–designed galleria at Brookfield Place, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s TD Centre towers, and the Renaissance Revival–style Commerce Court North.

HIGH PARK If the weather is agreeable, this hilly, 399-acre greenspace offers ample opportunity for photographic pursuits—and general enjoyment. There’s nature’s bounty, of course, but also a small zoo, historic Colborne Lodge and more. Return in late April to see the cherry trees in bloom.

The Royal Ontario Museum's Michael Lee-Chin Crystal (photo by Brian Boyle)

HOCKEY HALL OF FAME This shrine to Canada’s favourite sport is located in a heritage Beaux Arts bank building. Its cathedral-like Great Hall enshrines the National Hockey League’s coveted trophies—including the famed Stanley Cup—for all to see.

OLD TOWN The city’s original blocks date to 1793 and feature photo-friendly historic sites like the Gooderham “flatiron” Building and St. Lawrence Market. The area’s eastern end is home to the circa-1850s Distillery Historic District.

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM Arguably the most controversial site in Toronto, the ROM’s “Crystal,” conceived by architect Daniel Libeskind, is nothing if not striking. The geometric structure bursts forth from a neo-Byzantine heritage building. Set your sights on thousands of historical artifacts and natural specimens inside.

Many of these famous attractions can be spotted from the comfort of a coach or even a double-decker bus. The Toronto City Tour and Gray Line Hop-On, Hop-Off City Tour offer popular, fully narrated excursions.

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Yours to Discover: Sightseeing for Shutterbugs in a larger map

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.

Essential to Toronto: Shop the Season in the Distillery District

Pick up a Zenzulu moose ornament and many other artisan-made goods at the Toronto Christmas Market.

DECEMBER 3 TO 12 Holiday bazaars are an age-old tradition in Europe; now the custom comes to this city as the Toronto Christmas Market sets up shop in the Distillery Historic District. Along the area’s cobbled lanes, visitors can warm up with a glass of mulled wine or apple strudel while browsing unique wares and traditional handmade toys, such as Zenzulu moose and star ornaments from crafters in Zimbabwe. Also featuring holiday workshops, live music, children’s storytelling, a reindeer zoo, and, of course, the chance to meet Santa, this market has the makings of an annual Toronto tradition. Noon to 8 p.m. daily; call 416-364-1177 or click here for more information.

Weekend Roundup, September 3 to 5

Though autumn is just around the corner, summer’s still trying to keep up the heat. There are plenty of events and entertainment options this weekend!

Friday: The Jonas Brothers rock Toronto

Friday, September 3rd
Brace yourself for screaming teens as pop sensations the Jonas Brothers play their second show at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre. Expect to hear big hits from the boys’ latest album, Lines, Vines and Trying Times, and their new movie Camp Rock 2.

Big, trippy beats are on order as Flying Lotus fills the Opera House with his special brand of experimental techno. The talented producer’s most recent record, Cosmogramma, has been getting rave reviews, and his ability to remix other artists’ chart-topping tracks is also renowned.

Enjoy your last days of summer at the Toronto Zoo. Today marks its final Frozen Friday—a great opportunity to see the arctic polar bears up close during their feeding and learn about these beautiful creatures from the keeper.

Saturday: Laugh for a final time with Mrs. Brown

Saturday, September 4th
Step into the hilarious world of a Dublin family at the final performance of How Now Mrs. Brown Cow. Starring the talented Brendan O’Carroll—who also wrote and directed this comedy—the show follows a nosy mother as she brings her family together for Christmas.

Look to the sky! The Canadian International Air Show begins today. Watch death-defying aerobatic performances and marvel at the power of some of the world’s most advanced military aircraft. And don’t miss the 40th anniversary of the famous Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

Surround yourself with both art and history. The Artisans at the Distillery Art Show offers exceptional works in varying media by Canadian artists. The 19th-century Distillery Historic District is taken over by sculptures, photographs, paintings and metallic structures as these artists display their greatest pieces in the outdoors.

Sunday: See Julian Schnabel's untitled self-portrait and much more at the AGO

Sunday, September 5th
Take your kids to Ontario Place for family fun. Today, favourite children’s television characters from Sesame Street make an appearance to meet and greet their young fans. Be sure to take your camera for the wonderful picture opportunities available with these life-size characters!

See how one art form can inspire another by viewing Julian Schnabel: Art and Film at the Art Gallery of Ontario. More than two dozen enormous paintings by the New York-based artist and director (of such movies as The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) imply a fruitful relationship between visual art and filmmaking.

Enjoy this summer’s final “World Routes” festival at Harbourfront Centre. At the 15th Anniversary Ashkenaz Festival, you’re sure to find plenty of music, food, apparel and products celebrating Jewish art and culture.

Weekend Roundup, July 16 to 18

A weekend filled with festivals, concerts, theatre and culture! Toronto’s multiculturalism openly displayed right in front of your eyes. Lots to choose from, so little time…

Friday: Revel in Shakespearean derring-do under the stars at High Park (photo by Chris Gallow)

Friday, July 16
Spend your evening at the launch of the annual Beaches International Jazz Festival at Woodbine Park, where you can enjoy some fresh air while listening to top acts like Digging Roots and Jay Douglas & The All-Stars. Bring a blanket or some chairs, recline on the grass and celebrate the weekend with free music. If you like what you hear, be sure to come back Saturday and Sunday for more.

Fall in love with Shakespeare under the stars at the Canadian Stage TD Dream in High Park, which offers a pay-what-you-can performance of Romeo Juliet with a modern twist—the story of the star-crossed lovers is told using iPods and other contemporary props.

Tantalize your taste buds for less thanks to Summerlicious. The popular dining sees restaurants offering three-course meals at a fixed price. Make a reservation to sample the cuisines of the world at such Toronto favourites as Alize (Italian), Bangkok Garden (Thai), Célestin (French), Jaipur Grille (Indian) and Katsura (Japanese).

Or, try a different kind of ‘licious menu at Lee. Its “Susur-licious” menu, named for star chef and owner Susur Lee, is a three-course prix fixe featuring dishes from Lee’s tenure on the Food Network’s Top Chef Masters.

Saturday: See Geddy Lee and the rest of Rush (photo by ceedub13)

Saturday, July 17
Forget the 19-hour flight to the other side of the world. Today you can experience Indian culture on Toronto’s Centre Island, which hosts the annual Festival of India. Your immersion includes Indian music, dance, food and dramatic performances, plus crafts and souvenirs available from the bazaar. An exhibition reflecting the country’s history offers further enlightenment.

Swing by the Distillery Historic District to grab a bite from one of its many restaurants or cafés, then be sure to check out one of two Soulpepper Theatre Company shows at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts. Turgenev’s romantic comedy A Month in the Country is sure to stir up your emotions, and David French’s original and acclaimed Jitters also draws guffaws today.

Sing along with Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart as they bring their Rush classics back to the Air Canada Centre. The legendary Canadian prog rock band‘s Time Machine tour is guaranteed to have you reminiscing about the glory days.

Come face to face with some of the world’s most celebrated historical artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum‘s landmark exhibition, The Warrior Emperor and China’s Terracotta Army, featuring full-sized clay warriors from the tomb of Chinese emperor Ying Zheng.

Sunday: Don't forget your earplugs! The Hondy Indy zooms through Toronto

Sunday, July 18
There’s more musical nostalgia on offer at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, as Rock of Ages continues its successful run. This engaging show sets a rock ‘n’ roll love story to a soundtrack of ’80s hits by Journey, REO Speedwagon and many others.

South America’s largest nation gets a showcase this weekend at the Expressions of Brazil festival, part of Harbourfront Centre’s summer-long “world routes” programming. Today’s cultural mix includes samba performances, a drumming workshop, cooking and capoeira demonstrations and much more.

It’ll be easy to find Exhibition Place today—just head toward the sound of revving engines at the much-anticipated Honda Indy car race. Cheer on professional drivers like Paul Tracy and Dario Franchitti as they speed toward the checkered flag.

Indulge in a decadent taste from the briny deep at the annual Ontario Oyster Festival hosted by Rodney’s Oyster House. For $30, guests can feast on some exceptional oysters, hear live music, cheer on competitive oyster shuckers and much more. All proceeds go to Environmental Defence, a charitable organization.

You Are Here: Distillery Historic District

More than 40 heritage buildings comprise this pedestrian-only assemblage of shops, galleries and restaurants located on the former site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery at 55 Mill Street.

Click on any map marker for more information on Where’s neighbourhood favourites.

View the Distillery Historic District in a larger map

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Weekend Roundup, August 28 to 30

Friday: See pyrotechnic performers at Buskerfest.

Friday, August 28
Try making Chia-A-Noodle, a dish going back to the days of a mostly poor, agricultural Taiwanese society, at Taiwanfest. While slurping up your fresh-made noodles, take in art exhibitions, fashion, music, demonstrations and films at two festival venues: Harbourfront Centre and the Distillery Historic District.

Ooh and ahh as Dream State Circus, The Fast Horses, Trulee Odd, PyRomeo and Circus Orange light it up in a nighttime fire show, the “hottest” gala performance at the 10th annual BuskerFest in Old Town Toronto.

Lose yourself in your thoughts while walking the Toronto Public Labyrinth in Trinity Square (between Queen and Dundas streets, entrance off Bay Street), an oasis of peace in the heart of the bustling city.

Saturday: The historic Sunnyside Pavilion hosts an art show.

Saturday, August 29
Taste specialties of African cuisine at the Toronto African Film & Music Festival marketplace on Bloor Street, between Ossington and Christie Streets.

Get ready for dark humour as Soulpepper Theatre Company opens Who’s Afraid of Virgina Woolf? Edward Albee’s 1962 boundary-crossing masterpiece provides an honest glimpse into married life at the time.

View paintings, photography, sculptures and fashion (and meet the artists!) showcased in the annual Sunnyside Beach Juried Art Show & Sale at the historic Sunnyside Pavillion.

Sunday: Hear music at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Sunday, August 30
Make yourself comfortable amongst the graves and gardens at Mount Pleasant Cemetery for its Music at Mount Pleasant series. Today, a Royal Conservatory of Music brass quintet performs Bach and other classical works.

Take a walking tour of the city’s most eco-friendly sites and spaces as part of the Live Green Toronto Festival. Be sure to return to the festival hub at at Yonge-Dundas Square to check out over 100 green exhibitors and hear live music by The Philosopher Kings, Samba Squad, Carly Rae Jepsen and more.

Blow bubbles in the streets at today’s air-themed Pedestrian Sunday in Kensington Market. With cars banned for the day, it’s easy to experience the multicultural neighbourhood’s many charms.

Weekend Roundup, June 26 to 28

Music, magic and multiculturalism move through the city this weekend as many of Toronto’s adored annual festivals take flight.

Friday: Karen Robinson stars under the stars in <em>The Tempest</em> (photo by Chris Gallow).

Friday: Karen Robinson stars under the stars in The Tempest (photo by Chris Gallow).

Friday, June 26
Surrender to Shakespeare’s lyrical soliloquies in The Tempest during CanStage TD Dream in High Park, where the mystical tale is told in the open air.

Spend an enchanted evening with saxophone colossus Sonny Rollins as he launches the TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.

Head to the lakeshore for the opening reception of nine new art exhibits at the York Quay Centre—pursue painting, pottery, photography and more!

Saturday: See this fragment from the Book of War as part of the ROM's Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition (image courtesy of Israel Antiquities Authority).

Saturday: A fragment from the Book of War is part of the ROM's Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition (image courtesy of Israel Antiquities Authority).

Saturday, June 27
Discover the link between the ancient and modern world by viewing the Royal Ontario Museum’s blockbuster exhibition, Dead Sea Scrolls: Words That Changed the World.

Adhere to your appetite of jazz and drinks at popular pub Dominion on Queen, featuring a performance this evening by the York Jazz Ensemble.

Celebrate unique customs with the Multicultural Festival at the Children’s Peace Theatre with face painting, henna tattoos and traditional cuisine.

Delight in the diversity of the Distillery Historic District as you wander its cobbled streets during the Toronto City Roots Festival.

Sunday: Revel at the Pride Parade (photo by Kevin Lam).

Sunday, June 28
Rise and shine at Le Petit Dejeuner—Belgian waffles are lightly dusted with icing sugar and glazed in golden maple syrup.

Partake in the pageantry of the Pride Parade, ending this year’s fabulous festival of frivolity and family fun.

Immerse yourself in the infectious, spirited soul of lauded Louisianan Buckwheat Zydeco at Nathan Phillips Square, part of the Toronto Jazz Festival.