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Hot Date: Edmonton Motorcycle Show

Photo courtesy of Edmonton Motorcycle Show

January 13 – 15
Speed over to the Edmonton Expo Centre and get a glimpse of the latest 2012 bikes. Little riders will have a blast at the Yamaha Riding Academy for Kids—and guys, January 13 is ladies’ night. It may not be a girl’s idea of a dream date, but half- price admission for the gals and female-friendly activities means more bike browsing for you. Plus, hot events including the adrenaline-pumping Evolution of Extreme—an edge-of-your-seat aerial acrobatics show—are guaranteed to thrill one and all. Edmonton Expo Centre; $13 (adult), $9.50 (ages 6–15), Free (ages 5 and under). Visit www.edmontonmotorcycleshow.ca for tickets.

Fests & the City

Sub-zero spectacles, chic food and fashion, and architecturally wondrous spaces—the city’s winter festivals promise something cool for everyone.

Photo courtesy of Ice on Whyte

By Leanne Stone

Winter in Edmonton… It can be an unforgiving season, easily evoking images of holing up indoors, safely tucked away from short frostbitten days, long dark nights, relentless snowfall, and freezing wind chills that can wipe the smile off the face of even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiast. To some folks, then, it may seem counterintuitive as to why we Edmontonians happily celebrate our crazy winter conditions rather than cower from them. Well, simply put, it’s because celebrating is what we do best. After all, we are named Canada’s Festival City for a reason. So, make like a real Edmontonian and throw on some long johns and a toque; then head outdoors to take in some of the city’s most stellar winter festivities. From works of art carved in snow and ice to chic urban food and fashion to fire-throwing spectacles, our sub-zero climate is just another exciting element to enjoy. (more…)

When East Meets West: Chinese New Year in Vancouver

Ring in the year of the dragon and experience the best of Chinese culture

By Kristina Urquhart

The grounds at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Photo by KK Law

Think big. That’s our advice for the auspicious year of the dragon, which kicks off Jan. 23 and lasts until Feb. 9, 2013. Dragons are symbols of power, good fortune and lofty ideas—and the world could use some of each after being encouraged to pause and reflect during the peaceful year of the rabbit in 2011.

The Chinese New Year adheres to a lunar and solar calendar and usually falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice; what follows are days of decorating, exchanging gifts and passing lucky red money packets. The festivities culminate in the spectacular two-hour Chinese New Year Parade on Jan. 29, which starts at the ornate Millennium Gate, an imposing entrance to North America’s third-largest Chinatown. Expect to see colourful lion dances and martial arts demonstrations making their way through the red-lamppost-lined neighbourhood. (more…)

Hot Entertainment: 92nd Annual Polar Bear Swim Vancouver

Polar Bear Swim photo copyright Vancouver Park Board

Vancouverites know the cure for a New Year’s Eve hangover is an icy dip in English Bay on New Year’s Day. A handful of hardy locals first took the plunge in 1920, and that number keeps growing, now topping 2,200 despite ocean temperatures as low as 3°C (38°F). Most of the swimmers show up in costume, undaunted by the cold. Join the insanity Jan. 1.—Sheri Radford

More information:

POLAR BEAR SWIM Registration 12:30 pm, swim 2:30 pm. In Vancouver 311, outside Vancouver 604-873-7000. www.vancouverparks.ca

Hot Dates: What’s Happening for the Holidays

Ho ho holy moly! There’s a lot of festive events going on around town! Musical performances galore, an abundance of stage works, oodles of kid-friendly activities, and of course a plethora of places to cover your gift-giving needs. Have a look at what Toronto has planned this month for holiday-season revellers. (more…)

Welcome to the Finals

Where to go, what to do and who to see during Canadian Finals Rodeo week

BY TERRI MASON

Image courtesy of Northalds

The most widely anticipated rodeo of the year, the 38th Annual Canadian Finals Rodeo is the pinnacle of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association’s (CPRA) rodeo season. The rodeo takes place at Rexall Place in Edmonton November 9-13 and this year, the celebration of the sport has turned into a city-wide party!

The CFR is a showcase of the best rough stock, rodeo contestants, bullfighters and pick up men. The city will be bursting with high-charged entertainment, high ridin’ rodeo contestants and rodeo glitterati as they crown the new Miss Rodeo Canada and Princess. The top money earners from the rodeo trail have spurred, roped, raced, wrestled and bucked their way to the top twelve of the leader board, earning them a berth in one of the Top Ten richest rodeos in the world – and the richest CPRA-sanctioned rodeo in Canada. In 2010, the Canadian Finals Rodeo paid out a whopping $1,274,996 to contestants – that’s a lot of jingle in those jeans.

Leading into the rodeo is the internationally-renowned Farmfair International, a showcase of livestock that attracts buyers and purebred breeders from around the world. From November 5-13, Farmfair also features a line-up of thrilling horse events and competitions that is a huge draw for horse lovers.

Also on deck is the wildly popular Heritage Ranch Rodeo, which has established itself as a huge crowd pleaser. Working cowboys from ranches as far away as British Columbia to Manitoba compete in traditional ranch activities and events such as cattle penning, working cowhorse, branding (using paint) and often one of the wildest events of the night – bronc riding. Each contestant is ‘riding for the brand’ as they proudly represent some of the oldest ranches across the West.

With Christmas just around the corner, be sure to stop in at the RAM Country Market in the Expo Centre. This annual trade show features all things western and beyond and can surely help you complete your naughty and nice list in no time. Add to this great meals, entertainment and liquid libation in The Buckle at Northlands and a coterie of eclectic and fun events – from karaoke competitions to fashion shows – and you’ll see why Edmonton is the place for a good time.

River City Round Up Events
NOVEMBER 4 The Downtown Business Association’s 21st Annual Chili Cook Off Scotia Place, 10060 Jasper Ave. 11:30 am – 1 pm edmontondowntown.com

NOVEMBER 5 River City Round Up Kick Off Celebration Sir Winston Churchill Square 9 am – 6 pm

NOVEMBER 5–13 FarmFair International Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

NOVEMBER 5–13 Live Country Music Celebration Rose & Crown Pub, Sutton Place Hotel, 10235-101 St. www.edmontonpubs.com

NOVEMBER 5–13 RAM Country Market Place Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 5–13 River City Round Up Celebration Oil City Roadhouse, 10736 Jasper Ave. www.oilcityroadhouse.com Moriarty’s Bistro & Wine Bar, 10154-100 St. www.moriartysbistro.com

NOVEMBER 6 Country Karaoke Contest Final Overtime Broiler & Taproom Sherwood Park, 101 Granada Blvd. www.overtimesherwoodpark.com

NOVEMBER 6–8 Heritage Ranch Rodeo Kubota Hall, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

Image courtesy of Northlands

NOVEMBER 8 There’s A Heifer In Your Tank The Buckle, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.heiferinyourtank.ca

NOVEMBER 9 Miss Rodeo Canada Fashion Show NewCap Stage, West Edmonton Mall, 8882-170 St.

NOVEMBER 9–13 Canadian Finals Rodeo Northlands, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 10 Miss Rodeo Canada 2012 Crowning and Reception Sutton Place Hotel, 10235-101 St. www.missrodeocanada.ca

NOVEMBER 10 Bloodstock 2011 Kubota Hall D, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

NOVEMBER 10 Blake Shelton Live at CFR Rexall Place, 7424 118 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 10–12 The Buckle Hospitality Headquarters featuring buffets, live dinner time entertainment and bar service. Northlands Expo Centre, Hall H, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com/buckle

NOVEMBER 11 CPRA Ladies Luncheon & Fashion Show Marriott River Cree Resort, Corner of Whitemud Drive and Winterburn Road (215

A Guide to the Language of Rodeo
ARM JERKER Horse or bull that is really stout and bucks with a lot of power resulting in a huge amount of pull on the contestant’s arm.

BREAKING THE BARRIER 10-second timed event penalty. Steers, calves get a head start. Once the bovine passes a pre-determined length, a barrier rope is released, permitting the cowboy/ horse to leave the box without penalty.

BRONC REIN A thick rope, 1 1/2 – 2 inches in diameter that is attached to the halter of a saddle bronc horse. The rope can be no longer than 6 1/2 feet, and is used to provide balance for the cowboy.

CHAPS Pronounced shhh aps; not like chapped (lips).

CROSSFIRE Team roping penalty: If the heeler throws his loop before the header has turned the steer, it’s called “crossfire” and the run is disqualified.

DOG FALL An illegal manoeuvre in steer wrestling causing all four feet and the head to face in different directions. In order to receive a time, the cowboy must roll the steer over or let it up and throw it again legally.

DOUBLE KICKER When a horse or bull that kicks up with the hind legs, walks on the front legs and then kicks again with the hind legs, before the hind legs touch the ground.

DALLY; DALLIES Fast wrapping of the lariat around the saddle horn. Derived from the Spanish term dalevuelta, meaning “give it a turn.”

Image courtesy of Northlands

DOUBLE-GRAB; PULLING LEATHER; GRABBING THE APPLE When a roughstock cowboy grabs the shank, saddle or bareback rigging with his free hand. Automatic disqualification.

FLANK A flank strap is used to encourage the horse to kick out straighter and higher when it bucks. About four inches wide and covered in sheepskin, it fastens behind the widest part of the abdomen. The flank does not cause pain because irritants or pain interfere with a horse’s ability to buck in an energetic and athletic fashion.

HAT BENDER When a horse or bull does not buck and just runs around the arena.

HOOEY The knot used by tie down ropers to hold the wraps used to tie three of the stock’s feet together after the calf has been thrown. Also known as a half-hitch to most people outside of rodeo.

NECK ROPE A rope that is affixed to an animal’s neck in the timed events. It is used to trip the barrier in front of the contestant to assure the animal a head start.

PICK UP MAN The cowboy on horseback who assists the bareback and saddle bronc riders in dismounting from their stock, gets the stock out of the arena and keeps the rodeo running smoothly.

PERF Rodeo performance

RE-RIDE When another ride is given to a saddle bronc, bareback bronc or bull rider in the same go-round when either the stock or the cowboy is not afforded a fair opportunity to show their best. Can be caused by things like a chute-fighting animal, a fallen animal, etc.

SEEING DAYLIGHT The term used when a cowboy comes loose from a bucking animal far enough for the spectators to see daylight between the cowboy and the animal.

STAR GAZER Describes a saddle bronc that bucks with its head up, and causes the cowboy to have a hard time keeping the slack out of the rein.

Timed Events
STEER WRESTLING Timing, coordination and strength are prerequisites for a steer wrestler a.k.a. “bulldogger”. A steer is released from a chute and once he crosses the score line, the mounted steer wrestler and a “hazer” (whose job is to keep the steer running straight) streaks out from the starting box. The bulldogger drops onto the steer and wrestles it to the ground. For scoring, the steer must be flat on its side with all four legs extended.

TEAM ROPING Team roping requires close cooperation and timing between skilled ropers, a header and heeler. The steer leaves the chute and once it crosses the score line, the header ropes the animal and turns the steer. The heeler then attempts to rope both hind legs. The clock is stopped when there is no slack in the ropes and the horses are facing each other.

TIE-DOWN ROPING Tie down roping is the most technical event in rodeo, with many hours of practice to perfect the skills of the roper and the horse. A calf is released from the chute and once it crosses the score line, the cowboy ropes the calf, tips it to the ground then ties three legs together. The tie must hold for six seconds.

LADIES BARREL RACING Breakneck speed, precise manoeuvres and great riding skills are mandatory for this colourful ladies’ event. The cowgirl races a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. Times are so close in the precision event they are measured in hundredths of a second. The same requirements apply in all Novice Events: Saddle Bronc, Bare Back and Boys Steer Riding.

Hot Dates: Family Fare

This cookbook is chock full of delicious recipes

You never know which celebrity chefs or popular cookbook authors might stop by Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks to teach a class in the bookstore’s demonstration kitchen. On May 9, James Beard Award–winning author Trish Magwood presents recipes from her latest release, In My Mother’s Kitchen (Harper Collins; $39.99). Much more than a mere cookbook, it draws upon lessons learned from her mother and grandmother and focuses on preserving the family table in our hectic modern lives. The class is limited to 16 participants and the cost is $105.—Sheri Radford

30 Things We Love About Toronto This April

3. Ultra

1 Celebrating Prince William’s wedding on this side of the pond with a cup of the royal wedding blend tea from Majesteas.

2 The quiet confines of the Toronto Sculpture Garden.

3 Dramatic 15-foot-tall renderings of roosters in the dining room at Ultra.

4 Crispy thin-crust pizza from Mercatto.

5 A rejuvenating soak in the hot green tea pool at Body Blitz Spa.

8. Woodbine Racetrack

6 The retractable roof at the Rogers Centre—you can gaze at stars in the sky or at the Toronto Blue Jays on the field.

7 Heading lakeside to explore the Harbourfront.

8 The thundering sound of hooves on opening day at Woodbine Racetrack.

9 Admiring the “Canada” bowl, circa 1725, the first depiction of this country in ceramic, at the Gardiner Museum.

10 The adventurous rotating menu at Beast, which has included oven-roasted bone marrow.

11. Purdy's Sweet Georgia Browns

11 Sweet Georgia browns from Purdy’s—toasted and salted pecans with caramel and milk chocolate all in one morsel.

12 Warm and doughy bagels from St. Urbain at St. Lawrence Market.

13 Getting lost in the curated stacks at Type Books, a favourite of resident bibliophiles.

14 The fervor of the “scramble” at Yonge and Dundas, where you can cross the street in any direction.

15 Designer Kimberley Newport-Mimran’s favourite things—an international collection of goods from New Zealand to Sweden at Seventy-Seven.

13. Type Books

16 Reveling in the smooth sounds of jazz at The Trane Studio, named for saxophonist John Coltrane.

17 Inventive Japanese fare at Ginza Sushi, with offerings like sashimi boats.

18 Seeing the city on your own schedule with Gray Line’s Hop-On, Hop-Off City Tour.

19 Local retail therapy at Shopgirls, which stocks items by many Toronto fashion, accessory and decor artists.

20 Sampling a variety of vintages courtesy of Eight Wine Bar’s “buck an ounce” program on Friday nights from 4 to 9 p.m.

19. Shopgirls

21 The homey interior of Bobbette & Belle, where framed whisks and vintage plates adorn the walls as art.

22 Slurping back a freshly shucked oyster from Rodney’s Oyster House.

23 The upscale diner ambience of The Counter, which serves all-day breakfast and more.

24 Strolling along Canada’s Walk of Fame and counting how many names you recognize.

25 Inspecting the intricate and ornate silver art deco doors of the Design Exchange.

26. Real Sports Bar & Grill

26 Catching playoff hockey action at the ultimate man cave, Real Sports Bar & Grill.

27 Tracing the career of silent film star Mary Pickford in an exhibit at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

28 Shopping for vintage finds for less at Haute Classics. You might find classic Chanel and Chloé pieces.

29 The melodious church bells of St. James Cathedral.

30 Soaking in the academic vibe on the University of Toronto’s bustling campus.

Hot Dates: Wine Festival

March 28 to April 3

Winery dinners pair sumptuous food with exclusive wines from around the world. Photo by Daniella Ciuffa

More than 25,000 oenophiles swirl, sip and spit their way through the annual Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. This year’s spotlight is pointed firmly at the wines of Spain and at fortified wines (Sherry, Port, Madeira) from around the globe. Over 60 events—including lunches, brunches, winery dinners, tastings, minglers, seminars, and a gala dinner and auction—with 177 wineries offer something for every wine lover, whether novice or expert or somewhere in-between. Trade days cater to those who work in the the wine, hospitality or restaurant industry. Just make sure to leave room in your luggage for all the new bottles you’re bound to pick up as souvenirs.—Sheri Radford

30 Things We Love About Toronto This March

2. Thomas and Friends

1 Taking a bite of a delicious ice cream sandwich for dessert at Marben—even in winter.

2 Having fun with the kids—and a big blue tank engine—at Thomas and Friends, live on stage from March 18 to 20.

3 Indulging at the Toronto Wine and Cheese Show, which runs from March 18 to 20.

4 The tweedy atmosphere at Nicholas Hoare—perfect for bibliophiles.

5 Seeing Swan Lake performed with unerring grace by Russia’s famed Mariinsky Ballet.

7. Elmwood Spa

6 Applauding top Canadian musicians as they get deserved praise at the 40th annual Juno Awards on March 27.

7 Rejuvenating skin, muscles and mind at Elmwood Spa.

8 Singing and swooning along with songbird Sarah McLachlan on March 17 and 18.

9 Marrying French and Japanese culinary delights at Forte Bistro’s new sushi bar.

10 The selection of whimsical modern and classic toys from Kidding Awound.

12. The Chef's House

11 Learning all about the vital importance of water at the Royal Ontario Museum’s newest exhibition.

12 Helping George Brown College culinary students hone their skills by dining at teaching restaurant The Chef’s House.

13 Ordering daring fare like pig-face tacos at the Black Hoof.

14 Finding fashionable, organic and oh-so-soft clothes for little ones at Mini Mioche.

15 Being in the audience as Janet Jackson sings her hits at the Sony Centre on March 12.

16. The art of Tim Burton

16 Exploring a world-renowned director’s creative process at the TIFF Bell Lightbox’s massive Tim Burton exhibition.

17 Admiring the skills of Canadian violinist Karen Gomyo, who joins the Toronto Symphony Orchestra on March 23 and 24.

18 Answering the call of the wild from March 16 to 20 at the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show.

19 Picking up spring wardrobe staples at the two-storey H&M on Bloor Street West.

20 Embracing our love of French fare with dishes like milk-poached veal and sautéed sweetbreads at Auberge du Pommier.

23. Secrets From Your Sister

21 Examining the colourful works of ceramicist Betty Woodman at the Gardiner Museum.

22 The savoury-sweet taste of cashew chicken at Golden Thai, one of the city’s most venerable Southeast Asian eateries.

23 Finding the perfect cup size with a personalized fitting at lingerie boutique Secrets from Your Sister.

24 Oohing and aahing as Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan flies in for another dunk at the Air Canada Centre.

25 The adorable meerkats in the Toronto Zoo’s African Rainforest pavilion.

24. DeMar DeRozan and the Raptors

26 Marvelling at the stories of Robert Munsch, performed live by Solar Stage Children’s Theatre from March 5 to 20.

27 Exploring the varied indoor and outdoor attractions—from a skating rink to a shopping centre—in the Harbourfront area.

28 Sipping a cocktail at Avenue’s commanding onyx bar.

29 Getting a runway-side seat to see the latest couture trends—LG Fashion Week starts March 28.

30 Spotting all the intricate details in Scott Conarroe’s latest landscape photos at Stephen Bulger Gallery.

Hoop Dreams

March is a slam dunk for basketball fans in Halifax

By Trevor J. Adams

If you’re a serious basketball fan, you picked a great month to visit Halifax. One of Canada’s top basketball events is returning to Halifax. The top men’s university teams in the country compete at the CIS Final 8 Men’s Basketball Championship from March 11 to 13. The Halifax Metro Centre on Duke Street hosts the action.

This will mark the return of the event to Halifax after a three-year hiatus. The city has a long and storied history with the high-profile national championship, hosting it from 1984 to 2007. “Atlantic University Sport is excited and proud to bring the Final 8 back to Halifax for 2011 and 2012,” says Phil Currie, executive director of Atlantic University Sport. “When we submitted our bid for the 2011 and 2012 events, we focused on the pride, the passion and the people who are the foundation of the event we have all grown to love.”

Attracting university alumni and fans from across the country, the event has a very sociable quality. “It really is like old-home week,” Currie says. “There are a lot of people who only see each other at the Final 8, so it makes things a lot of fun, really adds to the excitement and energy of the event.”

During the event, downtown restaurants and bars will be abuzz with activity. For sports fans, popular spots include the Split Crow on Granville Street, The Maxwell’s Plum on Sackville Street, the Halifax Alehouse on Brunswick Street, The Loose Cannon on Argyle Street and the Midtown Tavern on Grafton Street.

Organizers promise competitors and fans alike a big dose of Maritime hosptiality. “After three years away, the fans, volunteers and community are anxious to show the rest of the country that Halifax is still the university basketball capital of Canada,” says event chair John Patterson. TSN is televising the event nationally.

The weekend before the big tournament, the Metro Centre hosts the regional championship as well. Atlantic Canada’s top men’s basketball teams will for the AUS Men’s Basketball Championship, with the winner going on to the nationals.

And if all that isn’t enough, you’ll also find professional action at the Metro Centre throughout the spring. Nova Scotia’s only pro hoops team is the Halifax Rainmen. One of the Premier Basketball League’s most popular team, they’re currently in the thick of the playoff hunt.

Hot Dining: Editor’s Choice

Chef Geir Simensen, Saege Bistro

If you’re a committed foodie, March 2 is the day to be in Halifax. The Westin hotel on Hollis Street hosts the Savour Food & Wine show. Dozens of chefs, vintners and suppliers from around Nova Scotia share their creations—choose from countless appetizers, entrees, desserts, wines, beers and more. It’s the ideal place to sample the best of the local dining scene.cool setting and hot vibe.

Hot Date: IceFest’s Chilly Reception

FEBRUARY 26 & 27 Bloor-Yorkville, one of Toronto’s premier shopping, dining and cultural districts, celebrates midwinter in style with its popular IceFest. This annual event takes artistic advantage of frosty temperatures to present an ice carving competition—see the intricate, crystalline sculptures in the Village of Yorkville Park and vote for your favourite. For a $5 donation, visitors can also have their picture taken with one of the large sculptures. Or, help raise funds while you shop—participating area boutiques will be giving a portion of their Saturday sales to charity.

20 Things We Love About Whistler

Photo by Eric Berger courtesy Tourism Whistler

1 Skiing or snowboarding down the seemingly endless mountainsides.
2 Cold beer on a heated outdoor patio.
3 Shopping for souvenirs in the pedestrian-only village.
4 All the exciting events and festivals throughout the winter.
5 The oh-so-hilarious tees from Cows, which include delightful movie-title puns such as “Dairy Potter” and “Indiana Moo.”
6 Heading out on a dogsled adventure—wearing goggles, of course. Mush!
7 Partying every night and snowboarding every morning.
8 Beautiful Whistler photography by local artists Blake Jorgenson and Mark Richards.

Frolicking in the snow. Photo by Bonny Makarewicz courtesy Tourism Whistler

9 Learning to sabre a bottle of Champagne inside Bearfoot Bistro’s 20,000-bottle wine cellar.
10 All the nominees and winners of our annual Where to Shop Awards.
11 Frolicking in fresh powder.
12 Treating our chapped, windburned faces to a luxurious facial at one of Whistler’s spas.
13 The clean, fresh air.
14 Zooming down the mountainside at the Coca-Cola Tube Park.
15 Warming up with a true Canadian delicacy: a piping-hot pastry from Beavertails.
16 Catching a ride from Whistler to Blackcomb Mountain on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
17 Top-notch regional cuisine at one of Whistler’s many restaurants.
18 Skiing the trails at Whistler Olympic Park.
19 Leaving the tots with a babysitter and heading out for a romantic night on the town.
20 Après ski. Nothing beats curling up by a fire after a day on the slopes.

Hot Dates: 5 for Music Lovers

Heart performs on February 3 at the Metro Centre.

• January 13: At the intersection of rock and Celtic, you’ll find Rawlins Cross, performing at the Dalhousie Arts Centre.

• January 29: Warm and sincere, with a working-class touch, bluesman Matt Minglewood is an enduring local favourite. See him at Casino Nova Scotia on Upper Water Street.

• January 29: Tonight’s concert at the Dalhousie Arts Centre with Jenn Grant is sure to be a highlight of In the Dead of Winter, an acoustic-music festival.

• February 3: Before there was “girl power,” there was Heart. See the trailblazing rockers at the Halifax Metro Centre on Duke Street.

• February 11: Something to make you feel old: The Goo Goo Dolls have been together for 25 years. Relive your angsty youth at the Dalhousie Arts Centre.

30 Things We Love About Toronto This December

1. The Four Seasons Centre's R. Fraser Elliott Hall

1 Appreciating the splendour of the horseshoe-shaped R. Fraser Elliott Hall at the Four Seasons Centre.

2 Tasting the finest Quebec fromages from Canoe’s cheese offering.

3 Admiring the ornaments on designer-decorated tannenbaums at the Gardiner Museum’s 12 Trees of Christmas exhibit.

4 Coming face-to-face with life-sized figures at the ROM’s The Warrior Emperor and China’s Terracotta Army exhibit.

5 Enjoying a hot-lather shave at Truefitt & Hill.

4. Terracotta warriors are on display at the Royal Ontario Museum

6 Ambling through peaceful Mount Pleasant Cemetery after a snowfall.

7 Reveling in close encounters with a five-metre-long dragon at the Ontario Science Centre’s Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids exhibi.

8 Enjoying seasonal carols at the St. Michael’s Choir School’s concert on December 10 and 11.

9 Dancing the night away at the opulent Dolce Social Ballroom, which features gold foil-wrapped columns.

10 Catching a hockey game at the Great One’s namesake sports bar, Wayne Gretzky’s.

14. Colourful Swatch watches

11 The first sip of Mayan hot chocolate from Soma, which blends chilies, ginger, cinnamon, orange peel and vanilla.

12 Bloor-Yorkville’s storefronts specially adorned for the holiday season.

13 Biting into a flaky, buttery croissant from Clafouti.

14 Giving the gift of time with a watch from Swatch’s Toronto Eaton Centre location.

15 Feeding animals at the Toronto Zoo on its Treats Walk.

19. Casa Loma

16 Perusing the beautiful selection of journals at The Paper Place.

17 Singing along at Kenny Rogers’ holiday show—it’s a gamble you can count on.

18 Making new friends at the wooden communal table at Dark Horse Espresso Bar.

19 Taking in the majestic and commanding Christmas tree at historic Casa Loma.

20 Adding bling with a shimmery cocktail ring from Banana Republic.

20. Banana Republic offers bling

21 Reminiscing with the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future—and Scrooge, too—in A Christmas Carol.

22 Tucking into an authentic subcontinental breakfast of masala omelette at Jaipur Grille.

23 The well-curated selection of professional titles at Books for Business.

24 Discovering what’s so hush-hush at the opening of the Victoria’s Secret location at the Toronto Eaton Centre.

25 Biting into airy doughnut holes with chocolate and caramel dipping sauces from Kultura.

24. Victoria's Secret at the Eaton Centre

26 Exploring the tomes at the kid-friendly “booktique” at Advice from a Caterpillar.

27 The ever-glowing sign at Honest Ed’s bargain emporium lighting up the corner of Bloor and Bathurst streets.

28 The elaborate, visually appealing wrought-iron window screens at George.

29 Posing with the NHL’s most coveted prize, the Stanley Cup, at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

30 Toasting in 2011 with a glass of bubbly from the highest perch in the city, 360 the Restaurant at the CN Tower.

Hot Dining: Bright Nights

You can't beat the view at Salmon House. Photo by KK Law

Vancouver’s oldest holiday tradition turns 50 this year when the annual Carol Ships Parade of Lights sets sail Dec. 3 to 23. Book early for a window seat at the restaurant of your choice. Numerous tasteful vantage points include the North Shore’s Salmon House (pictured), Bridges in False Creek, The Teahouse in Stanley Park, and Lift Bar-Grill-View, which overlooks Coal Harbour. Sightings vary according to schedules.—Tim Pawsey

The 12 Gifts of Christmas

By Jennifer Patterson

On the first day of Christmas my uncle gave to me a bevvy to toast the season: one bottle of Blasted Church’s Hatfield’s Fuse (at liquor stores).

ONE

On the second day of Christmas my father gave to me two made-to-order gifts: including the whisky cave from the newly renovated two-level Louis Vuitton.

TWO

On the third day of Christmas my sister gave to me a festive holiday outfit: a red three-piece ensemble from La Vie En Rose.

THREE

On the fourth day of Christmas my brother gave to me four event tickets: a pair to The Nutcracker and a pair to a Vancouver Canucks game.

FOUR (Photo by Chictype copyright IStock)

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me five golden rings from Tiffany & Co.

FIVE

On the sixth day of Christmas my mother gave to me art from all six of these First Nations galleries: Douglas Reynolds, Inuit Gallery, Hill’s Native Art, Bill Reid, Spirit Wrestler and Coastal Peoples.

SIX (Photo courtesy Bill Reid Gallery)

On the seventh day of Christmas my cousin gave to me seven treats from Chanel: the seven-piece holiday collection with four eye shadows, a nail polish, lip gloss and blush (available at Murale).

SEVEN

On the eighth day of Christmas my grandmother gave to me a little help in the kitchen with eight local cookbooks: Vij’s at Home, Vancouver Cooks 2, Blue Water Cafe, West, Araxi, Simply Bishop’s, C Food and Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill (at Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks).

EIGHT

On the ninth day of Christmas my kids gave to me a reminder of yesteryear: a nine-piece wooden lotus flower puzzle from Dilly Dally Kids.

NINE

On the tenth day of Christmas my boss gave to me no excuse to be late for a meeting ever again: 10 timepieces by Ice-Watch (at Zoë Boutiques).

TEN

On the eleventh day of Christmas my aunt gave to me a little make-up guidance: the 11-piece Lash Stash kit from Sephora.

ELEVEN

And on the twelfth day of Christmas my best friend gave to me 12 misfits: too-cute-for-words felt dolls by Usus, at the One of a Kind Show and Sale (Dec. 9 to 12).

TWELVE

Weekend Roundup, November 19 to 21

The holiday season has begun in earnest in Toronto. Start getting into the spirit with a variety of fun (and in some cases, festive) events this weekend.

Friday: Indulge at the Gourmet Food and Wine Expo

Friday, November 19
The Gourmet Food and Wine Expo offers oenophiles, epicureans and bon vivants the opportunity to sample more than 1,500 wines, beers and spirits while enjoying food from Toronto’s top restaurants. The decadence is on all weekend at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

A mix of jazz, classical, pop and world music–inspired melodies fills Massey Hall tonight, as pop orchestra Pink Martini brings a bubbly show to Toronto in support of its latest album, Splendour in the Grass.

In its own unique fashion, the Bata Shoe Museum is currently celebrating 40 years of the Juno Awards! See the footwear sported by to Canadian musicians like Drake, Nelly Furtado, Avril Lavigne, and many other past Juno winners and nominees.

Saturday: Glimpse the lives of India's historical royalty through such artworks as "Procession of Raja Ram Singh II of Kota and His Son at Kota" (© Victoria & Albert Museum, London)

Saturday, November 20
It’s your last chance to see the National Ballet of Canada’s performance of Cinderella! The company’s James Kudelka–choreographed production at the Four Seasons Centre has received universal acclaim from critics and is certain to leave you and your family enchanted.

The posh Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood celebrates the season with its annual Holiday Magic festival. Join in the merriment tonight at the “flick the switch” lighting ceremony, featuring a performance by Juno winner Ivana Santilli, free hot beverages and colourful displays in local shop windows.

More than 200 extravagant artworks, furniture, jewellery and much more—all created for India’s royal court—are now on display at the Art Gallery of Ontario’s much anticipated Maharaja exhibition. You’ll be dazzled by this glimpse of royal life on the subcontinent.

Sunday: Welcome Santa and his reindeer friends to the city

Sunday, November 21
Santa Claus is coming to town! A tradition since 1905, the Santa Claus Parade officially heralds the holiday season in Toronto. Line Bloor Street West, University Avenue and Yonge Street this afternoon to see all the floats, marching bands and the big man himself.

If you’re still craving holiday cheer after the parade, head to the Harbourfront Centre for its annual Swedish Christmas Festival! See live performances, browse handmade crafts, enjoy Swedish sweets, and try a glass of the traditional mulled wine known as glögg!

Get ready to cheer—it’s the Major League Soccer Cup Final today at BMO Field! FC Dallas battles the Colorado Rapids at 8:30 p.m. in what’s sure to be an exciting match!

Hot Date: Santa Heralds the Holidays

NOVEMBER 21 Kris Kringle is once again coming to town! For 106 years Torontonians have delighted at the sight of elves, reindeer, gingerbread people and, of course, the jolly old man himself making their way through town on the Santa Claus Parade. More than 1,500 participants of all ages comprise this year’s procession, and hundreds of thousands more are sure to line the streets to glimpse all the festive floats, marching bands and favourite holiday characters. Ring in the season starting at 12:45 p.m., as the parade commences at Bloor and Christie streets, then travels southeast all the way to Front and Church streets. Call 416-249-7833 or visit here for more information.