There’s a lot to celebrate in Toronto this weekend. Not only is the weather forecasted to be above 10C on Saturday, but the NHL and NBA playoffs are officially in full swing and the Season 8 premiere of “Game of Thrones” will finally air on Sunday.
The 6ix is hosting events related to all these events and more, including an outdoor dog festival, an NBA pop-up experience, and a live showing of the highly anticipated HBO show.
READ: TTC Subway Closures: 9 Stations Closed This Weekend (Apr. 13-14)
Read on to get all the details on cheap things to do in Toronto this weekend.
1. Neon Pop-Up Gallery
Where: Junction House — 2720 Dundas St. W.When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.Cost: Free!
For three days only, the Junction House will be transformed into a museum featuring historic Toronto neon signs. One of the highlights includes the Hard Rock Cafe’s famous 12-foot glowing guitar. Event organizers are hoping to bring a permanent neon museum to the city, but until then, this is your best bet to see what’s in store!
2. Buy Good. Feel Good. Expo
Where: Enercare Centre — 100 Princes' Blvd.When: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Cost: Free!
This is the place to go if you’re looking for a community of socially and environmentally conscious people. Not only will you be able to shop products from social enterprises, but you’ll be able to attend workshops and meet entrepreneurs who are making a difference in the world.
3. NBA Winners’ Corner
Photo courtesy of the NBA
Where: 950 Dupont St.When: Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.Cost: Free! (Sign up here if you’re 18+)
Celebrate the 2019 NBA playoffs at this 13,000 sq. foot pop up made especially for basketball fans. The space will include an immersive mirror room featuring the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, a half-court basketball court, customizable merch and product drops. Fans could even win a chance to meet NBA champion Gary Payton or James Worthy.
4. African Violet Spring Show & Sale
Where: Toronto Botanical Gardens (Floral Hall) — 777 Lawrence Ave. E.When: Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Cost: $2
Spring is in the air, so why not check out this seasonal festival put on by the Toronto African Violet and Gesneriad Society? An array of unique plants will be on display and ready for purchase, including African Violets, Streptocarpuses, and more!
5. Anne T. Donahue presents: “Titanic”
Where: Revue Cinema — 400 Roncesvalles Ave.When: Sunday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: $12 - $15
On the 107th anniversary of the sinking of Titanic, James Cameron’s famous film will be screened at Revue Cinema. Join writer and author Anne T. Donahue and Capsule ‘98 creator Randi Bergman as they banter about the film’s most iconic moments ahead of the screening. Buckle in for a wild ride.
6. NOTORIOUS: Hip-Hop Comedy!
Where: Comedy Bar — 945 Bloor St. W.When: Saturday from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.Cost: $15
This unique live theatre show combines improv comedy with freestyle rap. You’ll never see a show quite like this again, considering most of it is made up on the spot! Get ready for some hearty laughs and good beats at this show.
7. Barkworks 2019
Where: Evergreen Brick Works — 550 Bayview Ave.When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.Cost: $15
This outdoor dog festival celebrates furry friends! Guests are welcome to bring their pets and enjoy a puppy pop-up market, dog training sessions, live entertainment, an Easter egg hunt, and more. All proceeds will go towards the Toronto Humane Society.
8. The Toronto Pancakes & Booze Art Show
Where: Revival — 783 College St.When: Friday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.Cost: $10 - $13
More than 400 pieces of artwork made by 80+ local artists will be on display at this pop-up show. Guests can take in the views of fine art, mixed media, and photography while sipping on beer and enjoying free pancakes. The event will also feature live body painting and live music.
9. “Game Of Thrones” Trivia + Premiere Watch Party
Where: Weslodge Saloon — 480 King St. W.When: Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.Cost: Free!
Test your knowledge of the Seven Kingdoms during a pre-show “Game of Thrones” trivia match (with prizes!). A live screening of the Season 8 premiere will follow. And don’t worry, the sound will be on! It’s free to attend this event, but reservations are recommended. Specials include a bucket of five beers for $25 and a King Feast for $25.
10. Essentrics Class with Jacqueline Conte
Where: Consonant Skincare — 819 Queen St. W.When: Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.Cost: Free!
Get a full-body workout in this essentrics class. This type of exercise mixes elements of Tai Chi, ballet, and physiotherapy to stretch and strengthen muscles using the body’s weight and resistance. Try it out at this free class, but remember to show up early! Although you can register online, it’s still a first-come, first-serve basis.
