Toronto, it’s Friday -- which means it will soon be time to kick back and have some fun.
This weekend, there’s a plethora of awesome events happening in the city that are definitely worth braving the cold for.
From the return of the Trinity Bellwoods Flea market to a special event at the AGO curated by OCAD University students, read on to learn about all the exciting events happening in Toronto this weekend.
READ: 10 Cozy Cabins Near Toronto to Rent for a Winter Getaway
DesignTO
DesignTo returns to Toronto for its 10th installment this weekend to celebrate Canadian art and design. Over the past decade, DesignTO has grown from a collection of seven exhibitions and events to a ten-day Festival of over 100 free exhibitions and events throughout the city.
When: On now through January 26
Time: Varies by the exhibition
Where: Venues throughout the city
Price: Over 100 exhibitions are free to the public (others are ticketed)
Loop 2020
Leading up to the return of Toronto’s annual Winter Stations, event organizers have teamed up with the city’s Waterfront BIA to bring more public art to the city during the coldest months of the year. This weekend, Torontonians can check out ‘Loop’, an interactive, retro-futuristic machine powered by the public. Visitors can hop on two at a time into one of the six illuminated cylinders and pump a lever to activate the lights and glowing images.
When: On now through February 9
Time: 9 am to 10 pm
Where: York Street Park (York and Harbour)
Price: Free to attend
The Bentway Skate Trail: Winter Season
Underneath The Gardiner, you’ll find a magical 220-metre, figure-eight skate trail with a winter village and skate lessons and rentals available. The winter village will offer hot chocolate and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for skaters and spectators while warming stations will help visitors get toasty before getting back on the ice. So head on down to The Bentway and skate to the sound of music as you explore an area that was once vacant and forgotten.
When: Open now through February 17
Time: 12 pm to 9 pm
Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Blvd
Price: Free to skate (rentals start at $5)
The Phantom of the Opera
Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom Of The Opera will make a triumphant return to Toronto as part of its North American Tour. The story follows The beloved story and thrilling score will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this Phantom one of the largest productions now on tour.
When: Performances are Friday through Sunday this weekend
Time: Friday, 8 pm; Saturday, 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday, 2 pm
Where: Princess of Wales Theatre, 300 King Street West
Price: Tickets from $79
Toronto Light Fest
The fourth annual Toronto Light Fest will once again light up the city’s historic Distillery District this month, running for 45 days from January 17 until March 1. Make sure to arrive after dusk for the best experience (obviously). Hosted by the team behind the Toronto Christmas Market, the light fest will span 13-acres, with installations set to cover 44 buildings in the historic district.
When: On now through March 1
Time: After dark
Where: Distillery District
Admission: Free
ROM After Dark: Lunar
This Friday, Torontonians have the chance to experience the museum's new event series: ROM After Dark: Lunar, and explore the celestial world like never before. The evening will feature out-of-this-world music, live performances, curated programs, and food and drinks.
When: Friday, January 24
Time: 7 pm to 11:30 pm
Where: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park
Price: $30 for adults
Power Plant Winter 2020 Opening Party
To kick off the 2020 winter exhibition season, Toronto art enthusiasts are invited to attend the Power Plant's free party on January 24. Attendees will be amongst the first to experience new exhibitions by Naufus Ramírez-Figueroa, Dawit L. Petros, Naeem Mohaiemen, and Rashid Johnson. There will also be a cash bar available on-site throughout the evening.
When: January 24
Time: 8 pm
Where: The Power Plant
Price: Admission is free
DJ Skate Night: Yohomo's Icecapades
Get ready to lace up your skates and have some fun at this outdoor winter party that brings you skating and a stellar lineup of DJs. Cure your winter blues with this event.
When: Saturday, January 25
Time: From 8 pm to 11 pm
Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queen’s Quay West
Price: Free
AGO All Hours
This Saturday, you're invited to cozy up at the gallery for the next edition of AGO All Hours. Escape the cold and spend the day that will be filled with warmth, storytelling and art. The event will be curated by OCAD University's Criticism and Curatorial Practice (MFA) students and will feature a campsite in the heart of the museum, storytime, pop-up literary performances, contemporary dance performances, art talks, and much more.
When: Saturday, January 25
Time: 10:30 am to 10 pm
Where: AGO, 317 Dundas Street West
Price: Admission is free
The Trinity Bellwoods Flea - New Year Market
The Trinity Bellwoods Flea returns better than ever with a fresh line up of new vendors, entrepreneurs, and artisans giving Torontonians even more opportunities to shop local. Admission is as always FREE and four-legged friends and kiddos are welcome.
When: Sunday, January 26
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: 1087 Queen Street West
Price: Admission is free
