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Weekend Roundup, July 22 to 24

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.

Hot Date: U2 Plays for T.O.

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.

Hot Date: The Indian Oscars

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.

Hot Art: Picturing Bollywood Flicks

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.

Hot Date: UFC’s Knockout Spectacle

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.

Weekend Roundup, April 22nd to 24th

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.”

Weekend Roundup, April 8th to 10th

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.

Hot Date: Blue Jays Play Ball!

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.

Weekend Roundup, April 1st to 3rd

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s Happening in Toronto for March Break

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.