DECEMBER 23 TO JANUARY 1 Celebrate some of your favourite animated films with Disney on Ice’s 100 Years of Magic. The skating show features Mickey Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Nemo and more than 60 other characters in re-creations of memorable Disney movie moments. Rogers Centre, $15 to $90; call 1-855-985-5000 or visit here for showtimes and tickets.
Friday: Contemporary art overwhelms the historic Gladstone Hotel (photo by Samuel Bietenholz)
Friday, October 28
Immerse yourself in everything artistic at the Toronto International Art Fair, a.k.a. Art Toronto. See Andy Warhol’s 1979 BMW Art Car, a new site-specific installation by Kent Monkman, plus numerous other exhibiting galleries, presentations and discussions with artists, curators, and collectors. The show runs through to Monday at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Introduce yourself to dozens of new musical and theatrical acts at the Global Cabaret Festival, a weekend-long event at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts that celebrates songs, stories, and ideas with 150 musicians taking part in 44 performances.
Explore the sometimes-chaotic interactions between nature and culture at upArt, the Gladstone Hotel’s annual contemporary art fair. The exhibition runs throughout the weekend with works by local, national, and international artists and collectives.
Saturday: OCADU Celebrates its 135 Anniversary (photo by Thomas Hawk)
Saturday, October 29
Swing by Lavish&Squalor today as the shop opens its new antiques and vintage objets d’art section, and commemorates the occasion with a store-wide sale. Cocktails, snacks and live music round out your shopping experience.
Happy 135th Birthday, OCAD University! The highly regarded school of art and design invites you to join its anniversary festivities, which today include an open house, digital game-making event and an exhibition of acclaimed works by OCADU community members.
Bright colours, spectacular dances and a musical extravaganza reveal India’s cultural diversity in Bharati, the Wonder That is India. Dancers, actors, singers, acrobats, musicians and martial artists are all part of the show at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts.
Sunday: Roy Thomson Hall welcomes The Wizard of Oz
Sunday, October 30
Take the whole family down the yellow brick road, which, strangely enough, leads to Roy Thomson Hall and Oz with Orchestra. Watch the classic film The Wizard of Oz on a giant screen with live accompaniment provided by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
The NFL moves north of the border (for a day) with the Bills in Toronto Series coming to the Rogers Centre. The Buffalo Bills look to keep their winning season going as they take on the Washington Redskins.
Rare books, maps, prints, and manuscripts from around the world are on display at the Toronto International Antiquarian Book Fair. Peruse limited edition, signed volumes, and unusual books of all kinds at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
But wait! There’s More!
As it happens, there are a slew of Halloween-centric activities happening this weekend around the city, too. Check out those bloodcurdling events here. If you dare.
Friday: Cheer on the Argos as the seek to stop the Stampeders (photo by John Steadman)
Friday, October 14
Watch Chad Owens as he tries to become the first player in pro football history to rack up 3,000 combined yards in back-to-back seasons when the Toronto Argonauts take on the Calgary Stampeders at the Rogers Centre.
Hear the sweet stringed sounds of Sinfonia Toronto at their first Masterpiece Concert of the new season at the Glenn Gould Studio. The virtuoso chamber orchestra welcomes pianist Davis Jalbert and trumpeter Guy Few for the show.
Tiptoe around corpses, feel the blood on the walls of a darkened maze, and outrun movie slashers come to life! Screemers, the indoor haunted scream park, takes over the Queen Elizabeth Building, Exhibition Place. (more…)
Friday: Paul Gross and Kim Cattrall debut in Noël Coward's Private Lives
Friday, September 16
Kim Cattrall and Paul Gross trade the silver screen for the big stage in the Toronto engagement of Private Lives. This straight-from-London production of Noël Coward’s comedy classic opens tonight at the Royal Alexandra Theatre.
Discover Ukrainian culture at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival. The event kicks off tonight and runs all weekend in Bloor West Village. Watch dancers and musicians, taste authentic Ukrainian food and drinks, and shop the sidewalk sale.
Cheer on slugger Jose Bautista, rising star Brett Lawrie, and the rest of the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre, as they open a three-game series against the New York Yankees (and look to spoil the Bronx Bombers’ hopes of another division title).
Saturday: Celebrate the season at Black Creek Pioneer Village
Saturday, September 17
Press some cider, bid on handmade quilts, and take a horse-drawn wagon ride at the 55th Pioneer Festival at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This year’s event celebrates local food and the history of the harvest with fresh-baked pies and a team of volunteers producing 1,000 pounds of sausage throughout the day.
Don your red threads and head over to BMO Field for some Major League Soccer action. See if Torsten Frings and Julian de Guzman can lead Toronto FC to victory against the visiting Colorado Rapids.
Listen to the folk-rock melodies of Wilco at Massey Hall. The Chicago-based band is following up on its 2009 Grammy-nominated, self-titled record with the release of its eighth studio album, The Whole Love, due out later this month.
Sunday: Cheer on the thousands of runners keeping Terry Fox's dream alive (photo by Logantech)
Sunday, September 18
Carry on the legacy and spirit of national hero and support cancer research. Running, walking, and cycling paths of various lengths will be set up at Terry Fox Run sites around the city.
Celebrate “Hangawi,” also known as the Korean Thanksgiving at the Korean Harvest Festival. Concerts, a Korean culture show, and a singing competition are all part of the festivities taking place at Mel Lastman Square in North Toronto.
Polka your way over to Roncesvalles Village for the Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Experience the heritage, art, music, and food of Poland, along with a soccer tournament, and film screenings at the Revue cinema.
Friday: Les Ballets Persans perform at the Tigran Iranian Festival
Friday, July 22
Get a taste of exotic art, culture and entertainment at the Harbourfront Centre this weekend with the Tigran Iranian Festival. Explore the concept of “Visions of Eternity” through the work of participating artists and writers, and take in live music from the Paradis Orchestra, Rana Farhan, and the Iranian National Choir.
Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival is more than just a parade—celebrate the salacious sights, sounds and flavours of the Caribbean with an elegant night at the event’s Gala. Dress your best for a night of masquerade models, music and exotic food at the elegant Liberty Grand.
“Do It Again” while “Reelin’ In The Years” when Steely Dan hits the stage at the Molson Amphitheater. The American jazz band still has a commanding stage presence with a slew of hits to play, including “My Old School” and “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number”.
Saturday: The Blue Men Group strike up a charging show at the Princess of Wales Theatre
Saturday, July 23
They’re shocking, comedic, and blue—catch the Blue Man Group when they electrify the Princess of Wales Theatre tonight. The multi-media performance with the bald blue men is centered on a large LED curtain and high-resolution screen for a unique theatrical performance.
After starting their regular season on the road, the Toronto Argonauts finally return to the Rogers Centre for their first game of the season. Cheer on the Boatmen as they take on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers looking for a win in front of a home crowd.
Cool down with the sound of the soothing melodies of the Forgotten Romantics at Walter Hall as the Toronto Summer Music Festival continues. The Vienna Piano Trio teams up with Canada’s leading chamber musicians to perform The Suite by Moszkowski, the masterful sextet by Louis Spohr, and the piano quintet by Karl Goldmark.
Sunday: Celebrate The Wiggles' 20th Birthday at Ricoh Colliseum (Photo courtesy of Ben Pharr)
Sunday, July 24
Wiggle on down to the Ricoh Colliseum to join in on The Wiggles’ Big Birthday Tour. The 20th birthday celebration will be packed with action including the four Wiggles, Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, and Wags the Dog.
Celebrate over 500 artists at Yonge-Dundas Square this Sunday for a day filled with high-spirited performances and art on display for Youth Day 2011. The square will be filled with inspiring music, dance, art, photography, food, and vendors to keep you entertained all day long.
The Big On Bloor Street festival continues on Sunday with stores along the Dufferin and Lansdowne stretch offering special in-store events, sales and menus. Have a taste of the diverse art, culture, and food that this neighbourhood has to offer.
JULY 11 Bono, the Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr.—collectively known, of course, as U2—return to wow an audience of over 50,000 with classics like “Where the Streets Have No Name,” “Sunday Bloody Sunday” and “Beautiful Day.” Rogers Centre, 7 p.m., $32 to $252; call 1-855-985-5000 or navigate here to buy.
Nominated actress Kareena Kapoor
JUNE 25 Toronto rolls out the red carpet as the International Indian Film Academy Awards come to North America for the first time, after previously wowing audiences in London, Amsterdam and Dubai. Last year’s prestigious ceremony was broadcast to millions of Bollywood film fans around the globe; the Toronto gala is expected to draw a similarly large number of spectators to see the colourful, energetic song-and-dance performances and find out which Indian superstars—including nominees Kareena Kapoor and Hrithik Roshan—will take home the gold. Rogers Centre, 7 p.m., $49 to $150; call 416-341-1234
or click here for more information.
An advertisement for the 1972 film Garam-Masala
JUNE 11 TO OCTOBER 2 Bollywood glamour dresses up Toronto in more ways that one this month. Not only will the International Indian Film Academy Awards be handed out on June 25 at the Rogers Centre, but the Royal Ontario Museum also gets into the act with an intriguing display of Hindi cinema “showcards” from the 1950s to ‘80s. A chronological selection of more than 100 of these hand-painted photo collage–style advertisements for vintage movies like Garam-Masala, the exhibition is a glimpse into more than just Mumbai’s over-the-top film industry. It also shines the spotlight on the evolution of graphic design and marketing in modern South Asia.
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.
Head to the Rogers Centre for UFC 129
APRIL 30 Mixed martial arts has a strong following in Canada, so it’s no surprise that UFC 129 in Toronto is expected to be the largest event in the history of Ultimate Fighting Championship. The partisan crowd is sure to cheer as Montreal native and welterweight champ Georges St-Pierre steps in the octagon for a marquee bout against Jake Shields. And before that, Ontario’s own Mark “The Machine” Hominick trades blows with Jose Aldo for the featherweight title. Rogers Centre, 6 p.m., $50 to $800; call 1-855-985-5000 to buy.
Friday: See Measha Brueggergosman in La Clemenza di Tito (photo by Bruce Zinger)
Friday, April 22
Opening tonight at the Elgin Theatre, Opera Atelier‘s production of La Clemenza di Tito features star soprano Measha Brueggergosman, male soprano Michael Maniaci and dramatic tenor Kresimir Spicer. Known as Mozart’s “most perfect work,” this opera has everything, from unrequited love to assassination plots.
In celebration of Good Friday, the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir performs “Sacred Music for a Sacred Space” at St. Paul’s Basilica this evening. The concert features sacred works by renowned Canadian choral composer, Healey Willan.
All weekend long, Easter EGGstravaganza: Toronto’s Largest Easter Egg Hunt takes place on Centre Island. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., children and families can join in the Easter Bunny for activities and games like basket-making, bouncy castles, face painting, egg painting, a petting zoo and Centreville rides.
Saturday: Get a scare at Ghost Stories (photo courtesy of Mirvish Productions)
Saturday, April 23
Halloween isn’t for another six months, but that shouldn’t stop you from seeing Ghost Stories at the Panasonic Theatre. Not for the faint of heart, this is a thrilling, live horror show best suited for audiences 14 years of age or older. Are you brave enough?
Head out of the city for a day trip to Stratford, Ontario and catch the first of the Stratford Festival’s plays for the upcoming season. Previewing this weekend are Grapes of Wrath, based on the novel by John Steinbeck, and Camelot, the renowned musical about the King Arthur and his questing knights.
Free Earth Day Celebrations take place at Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre, from noon to 4 p.m. today. Children and families are invited to learn what they can do to help the planet, create environmentally friendly artwork, tour the wildflower preserve, and learn about the impact of industrialization on the Don Valley’s natural landscape.
Sunday: Cheer on Adam Lind and the rest of the Blue Jays
Sunday, April 24
Catch the last of a three-game tilt between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays at the Rogers Centre on Sunday at 1 p.m. Before filling up on cracker jacks and hot dogs, go for a casual Easter Sunday brunch at Cora Breakfast & Lunch, just steps away from the stadium.
For something a little fancier, Casa Loma hosts its annual Easter Sunday Royal Brunch, with a smorgasbord including pastries, leg of lamb, salad, pancakes and waffles, pasta, seafood and dessert. There’s even a children’s buffet. Kids can also take part in the “Egg”-citing Hunt on at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m.
Don’t miss your last chance to see In Search of Normal Rockwell’s America, which concludes its run at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection on April 25. This collection juxtaposes Rockwell’s work with that of photojournalist Kevin Rivoli, both telling the story of “everyday life.”
Friday: Marvel at the Harlem Globetrotters' amazing basketball skills
Friday, April 8
For more than 84 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have dazzled fans of sports and showmanship around the world, even presidents and popes. This weekend, they’re dusting off their best moves for three shows at the Rogers Centre: tonight at 7:30 p.m., and tomorrow (April 9) at 2 and 7 p.m.
Kicking off another spring is the Total Health Convention and Exhibition, taking place this weekend at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and featuring more than 200 exhibitors. Attendees can also hear from 60-plus speakers on topics like “The Ancient Healing Art of Ayurvedic” or “Health Effects of Genetically Modified Foods.” Don’t miss the gourmet organic café or the spa oasis!
Learn about and celebrate the traditions of First Nations peoples at Survival of the Indigenous Spirit. The fundraiser will take place at the University of Toronto’s Innis Town Hall offers talks by Anishnabe spiritual leader Dave Courchene and Survivorman Les Stroud. Proceeds support the Vision Quest & Makoose Ka Win project.
Saturday: Kids will enjoy seeing Bugs "conduct" the orchestra
Saturday, April 9
Bring the kids to a classical concert they may actually enjoy, as the Sony Centre and Warner Bros. presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. Two showings (at 2 and 7 p.m.) feature the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony performing live while Bugs Bunny at the Symphony and other classic cartoons are projected on the big screen.
Massey Hall welcomes a Canadian music legend tonight, as iconic singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn plays songs from his latest studio album, Small Source of Comfort, and, possibly such past hits as “Lovers in a Dangerous Time.”
Starting today, Veggielicious takes place at more than 20 restaurants and bakeries across Toronto. Specials on vegan dishes or prix fixe menus are on offer at establishments such as Bunner’s Bake Shop—where you can get a Veggielicious Snack Pack for $7.50—and Live Organic Food Bar, where for $25 you can experience a three-course 100 per cent vegan meal.
Sunday: Colborne Lodge offers family Fun (photo by Bobolink)
Sunday, April 10
Get a head start on all the family fun at Easter Traditions at Colborne Lodge, taking place from noon to 4 p.m. Kids and families can tour High Park’s historic Colborne Lodge while they learn and participate in 19th-century Easter traditions like dyeing and hunting for eggs.
For old and young alike, stamp collectors will enjoy spending the day at the National Postage Stamp Show at Exhibition Place’s Queen Elizabeth Building. Check out the North Toronto Stamp Club’s annual show, meet with dealers from across Canada, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., and participate in prize draws.
Three exciting Asian-inspired exhibitions beckon visitors to the Textile Museum of Canada: Beauty Born of Use: Natural Rainwear from China and Japan showcases the historical use of natural elements like straw, bark, vines, and seaweed to create waterproof and eco-friendly clothing; artist Kai Chan’s A Spider’s Logic brings together common household items reminiscent of his Chinese upbringing to create nature-inspired elements; and, new to the museum, Silk Oasis on the Silk Road: Bukhara displays a collection of ikats and silks from Central Asia’s textile- and history-rich Silk Road.
Jose Bautista
OPENS APRIL 1 Cautious optimism reigns as the Toronto Blue Jays kick off their Major League Baseball season at home against the Minnesota Twins. The team continues to nurture a number of rising stars—at press time, hard-hitting catcher J.P. Arencibia and pitcher Kyle Drabek were among the promising young talents hoping to crack the lineup—in hopes of being contenders in the difficult East Division. Returning players like southpaw hurler Ricky Romero and home run king Jose Bautista no doubt wish for a strong start, too. They’ll be tested as the month goes on against the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays and others. Rogers Centre, $14 to $73; call 416-341-1234 or navigate here for tickets and times.
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.
MARCH 14 TO 18 is March Break in Toronto! Still trying to plan your week of family fun? Check out our run down of special events and activities at Toronto’s top attractions. (Regular admission prices and hours apply, unless otherwise noted.)
The kids will be in awe of all there is to do during March Break in Toronto (photo by limaoscarjuliet)
Throughout the week at the Art Gallery of Ontario, families can enjoy performances inspired by the Maharaja: The Splendour of India’s Royal Courts exhibit as well as a dozens of free March Break activities that are included with the price of regular admission. March 14 to 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission for kids under 5.
Dive into March Break at the Royal Ontario Museum as the museum explores our blue planet with its latest showcase, Water: The Exhibition. Experience the interactive 10-foot-tall multimedia display, create water-themed crafts, learn about ancient marine life from museum curators, and even see live animals. Visit after 4:30 p.m. for $10 off admission. March 12 to 20, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stay warm at the Toronto Zoo by venturing into its tropical pavilions—including the newly refurbished African Rainforest Pavilion, complete with new chameleons and ring-tailed lemurs. Families can register for the zoo’s twice-a-day Playtime Forest education program, with 1.5 hours of activities and crafts for $4 per family member. March 12 to 20, 10:30 a.m. to noon or 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
The Hockey Hall of Fame gets March Break started off right: on Monday, from 10 a.m. to noon, kids can meet and pose for photos with Toronto team mascots like Carlton the Bear of the Maple Leafs. Throughout the week, children can challenge themselves with hands-on interactive activities like goaltending, shooting, play-by-play broadcasting, and more. March 12 to 20.
For a medieval-style March Break, head to Casa Loma—the estate turns into an enchanted castle for a Princesses and Pirates extravaganza. A musical performance by Cinderella and the Little Mermaid, followed by a meet-and-greet, take place four times daily. Get dressed up in costumes for a photos, meet Prince Charming in the great hall, or enjoy a pancake breakfast or cupcake party. March 14 to 19.
If you’re looking to save, check out the events for families, children and teens at the Toronto Public Library. Guests like musicians and scientists liven up the day, as do such activities as movies, crafts, and storytelling for kids, plus skateboarding, hip hop, DJ-ing and games nights for teens. March 12 to 19.
Enjoy a truly Canadian experience at the Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival, where families can partake in an hour-long maple syrup walk, and enjoy face painting, wood carving demonstrations, entertainers, sap sampling, horse-drawn wagon rides, pony rides, and a petting zoo, all day long at Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area. March 14 to 18.
At Black Creek Pioneer Village, families get a hands-on look at olden-days revelry. Start with a pancake lunch, then take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon, sing along with the village’s Mumblypeg band, learn how to make maple syrup, take a Victorian dance lesson, and warm-up in the Pioneer Play Area. March 12 to 20.
Have a magical time at the Wizard World Indoor Family Fun Park, starting for March Break at the Better living Center at Exhibition Place. The fun park includes 150,000 square feet of indoor fun: food and drinks, professional stage shows, 20 carnival rides, free loot bags for kids under 12, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and much more. March 13 to 20.
Don’t forget Spring Fling, Canada’s largest indoor carnival, at the Rogers Centre. Enjoy the midway with rides, family entertainment, and exotic animals throughout the week. All-day ride tickets are $20. March 11 to 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday: The Kodo Drummers of Japan bring their forceful rhythms to the Sony Centre
Friday, March 11
Enjoy the dazzling showmanship and primal rhythms of the world-famous Kodo Drummers of Japan as they take the stage for the Toronto stop of the group’s 30th-anniversary tour. This dazzling display of speed, dexterity, precision, and muscular endurance takes place tonight at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts.
The Canadian Music Week Film Festival—just one of many events comprising Canadian Music Week, from March 9 to 13—screens today and Saturday at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The festival showcases 10 features and a handful of shorts, including rock docs, concert films, band biographies, and musicals.
Dog lovers and pet owners are advised to make tracks to the Purina National Dog Show, which opens today at the International Centre in Mississauga, and features hundreds of purebred canines strutting their stuff in competition. A number of vendors are also on-hand with the latest in doggie gear and accessories.
Saturday: Janet Jackson offers an intimate, all-hits concert
Saturday, March 12
Ms. Janet Jackson herself strides onto the Sony Centre stage for her international “Number Ones, Up Close and Personal” tour. The accomplished singer is set to perform top tracks from her Number Ones album in a personal, intimate setting.
Stroll through the bustling streets of Kensington Market on the Kensington Foodies Roots Walk, which has been featured on CNN and in National Geographic Traveler. From 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., you’ll be able to savour the diverse foods from the ethnic markets, stalls and restaurants.
Start March Break on a high note by making your way to the Toronto Zoo. Starting today and continuing through the week, the zoo offers additional family-fun activities, events, and keeper talks.
Sunday: Enjoy a day at Spring Fling
Sunday, March 13
An excellent daytime activity to kick off your March Break is Spring Fling, Canada’s largest indoor carnival. Enjoy the midway with rides, family entertainment, and exotic animals. All-day ride tickets at this Rogers Centre event are $20, and the fun continues to March 18.
Satisfy Harry Potter fantasies at the Wizard World Indoor Family Fun Park, which opens today and runs to March 20 at Exhibition Place’s Better Living Centre. The park features 150,000 square feet of indoor fun: food and drinks, professional stage shows, 20 carnival rides, free loot bags for kids under 12, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and much more.
Put on your best green outfit and shamrock buttons to engage in a little Irish revelry. The Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins today at noon. The annual procession starts at Bloor and St. George streets, marches east to Yonge, and then south toward Nathan Phillips Square.
Friday: Peter Oundjian leads the Royal Conservatory Orchestra in a trio of classical favourites (photo by Cylla von Tiedemann)
Friday, January 21
Wind down from a busy week at Koerner Hall with The Royal Conservatory Orchestra and award-winning young pianist Grace Kim. The ensemble, led by Toronto Symphony Orchestra conductor Peter Oundjian, is set to serenade audiences with Mozart’s “Prague” Symphony, Rachmaninov’s The Rock and Debussy’s impressionistic La Mer.
See Toronto’s landscape transform through the eyes (and lenses) of talented contemporary and historical photographers—Stephen Bulger Gallery‘s new exhibition, The Toronto Show, gathers images of the city spanning from the late 19th century to the present day.
Head down to Harbourfront Centre as hundreds of Toronto-area dancers burn up the Fleck Dance Theatre stage. B-boys, ballerinas and belly dancers are just a few of the fleet-footed folks who can be seen at this exciting, weekend-long extravaganza of dance.
Saturday: See Kim Dorland's A Walk in the Forest and many other new works at Angell Gallery (image courtesy of Angell Gallery)
Saturday, January 22
The always provocative artist Kim Dorland opens his highly-anticipated exhibition, Nocturne, tonight at Angell Gallery. Dorland’s latest series features spectral figures and eerie paintings of the skull of his greatest inspiration, Tom Thomson. Also at the gallery: new photographic works by Bonnie Baxter.
The soulful sound of Lauryn Hill resounds tonight at The Sound Academy—her first Toronto appearance in a decade. The acclaimed if mercurial artist breathes life into the lyrics from her classic album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, as well as (possibly) some fresh tunes from a long-rumoured but never confirmed new album.
Don’t forget your earplugs while gearing up for tonight’s Monster Jam at the Rogers Centre. The roaring trucks are revving up to thrill with daring tricks from current freestyle champion Charlie Pauken and world champion Tom Meents.
Sunday: Groove with Robert Plant (photo by Man Alive)
Sunday, January 23
Robert Plant is getting a lot of mileage out of his current “rootsy” incarnation. Tonight he offers the second of two concerts at the Sony Centre, accompanied by his Band of Joy. The former Led Zeppelin frontman’s melodic mix of rock and folk inspires a truly unique musical style.
Fly through the skies with legendary test pilot Mike Carriker on a journey of education and innovation at the Ontario Science Centre. In it’s OmniMax Theatre, the new Imax film Legends of Flight takes you soaring through the skies on an expedition through the past and future of flight.
Today is the final day to view Constructions: Contemporary Norwegian Arts and Crafts at the Design Exchange. This exhibit features a variety of objects from Scandinavia and emphasizes—as the title suggests—methods of construction in a variety of art and design disciplines.
Friday: Be wowed by Shen Yun Performing Arts' colourful production
Friday, January 14th
Get a glimpse into the diverse 5,000-year history of China courtesy of Shen Yun Performing Arts. The talented troupe brings its mix of dance and theatre to the Sony Centre stage tonight and throughout the weekend.
Best known as Full House dad Danny Tanner and the original host of America’s Funniest Home Videos, Bob Saget brings his hilarious (though notoriously uncensored) stand-up routine to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Itching for even more comedy? Don’t miss your last chance to catch A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Stephen Sondheim’s gleeful musical about a Roman slave attempting to earn his freedom.
Saturday: Yuck it up with Rod Beattie in Wingfield: Lost & Found
Saturday, January 15th
The uproarious comedy show Wingfield: Lost and Found plays tonight at the Panasonic Theatre. This latest in Rod Beattie’s series of “Walter Wingfield” shows sees the character—a stock broker turned farmer—battle obstacles in search of a new water source during a drought.
Mickey Mouse and the rest of the Disney gang wheel into Toronto with Mickey’s Rockin’ Roadshow. On stage this weekend at the Rogers Centre, the production features all of your ‘toon favourites, including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and many other special guests!
Tokyo Police Club invade the Kool Haus tonight for an all-ages concert. The Newmarket natives play upbeat indie-rock songs that are sure to get you dancing.
Sunday: Crowd the Berkeley Street Theatre at a performance of Ruins (photo by Cylla von Tiedemann)
Sunday, January 16th
Pay heed to the struggles women must go through in times of strife—the Pulitzer Prize-winning play Ruined makes its Toronto premiere tonight at the Berkeley Street Theatre.
It’s had a successful run, but inevitably, the Next Stage Theatre Festival closes today at the Factory Theatre. All eight of the fest’s acclaimed independent productions are on stage today. The first show, Eating with Lola, starts at 3 p.m.
For anyone who’s planning a wedding—or those who simply love to live vicariously through the bride and groom—The Wedding Show at the glamorous Carlu offers everything from gowns to invitations. Experts are on-site, too, to help you with everything you’ll need for the big day.
JANUARY 14 TO 16 Everyone’s favourite mouse returns for an all-new adventure in Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show! In this fun- and music-filled romp, Mickey, Minnie and their pals run into other classic characters like Cinderella, Buzz Lightyear and Goofy. Rogers Centre, Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., $20 to $75; call 416-870-8000 or visit here to buy.
OPENS DECEMBER 25 Pack a suitcase, lace up your skates and embark on an expedition with everyone’s favourite cartoon rodents in Mickey and Minnie’s Magical Journey, presented by Disney on Ice. In this lively show for the whole family, Mickey and Minnie plunge into Ariel’s underwater kingdom, go on a safari through the pride lands of The Lion King, fly with Peter Pan to Never-Never Land, and soak up the Hawaiian sun, sand and surf with Lilo and Stitch. Packed with amazing costumes and special effects, this ice-bound adventure is sure to capture your imagination. Rogers Centre, $15 to $90; call 416-870-8000 or click here for a schedule and to purchase tickets.
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Stay, Dine, Do
