We’re about to roll into the busiest time of the year in Toronto: holiday season.
But, before the schedules fill with holiday parties and festive feasts, the city is alive and well with options this weekend -- from tech-inspired art events and high-energy concerts to forward-thinking fashion shows.
Here’s what to do in Toronto this weekend…
Watch the Sky Illuminate at Light Up Downsview
Hit the Downsview Airport Grounds on Saturday evening to watch the sky illuminate wonder, as renowned Toronto artist Katharine Harvey uses drones flying in 3D formation to create ethereal magic in the sky. Light Up Downsview will feature complimentary hot beverages, entertainment, family activities and a breathtaking display of aerial art on the soon-to-be-de-developed Downsview Airport Lands. Find more info here.
Check Out a Forward-Thinking Fashion Show
Get inspired at a forward-thinking, all-inclusive fashion show. Toronto’s multi-arts fashion week Fashion Art Toronto is presenting four days of runway shows from 30 designers this weekend. This fashion-forward avant-garde showcase will feature genderless fashion, streetwear, activism-based collections, avant-garde designs, sustainable apparel, and everything in-between. Find more info here.
Discover the Latest in Video Art at the Koffler Gallery
Through the month of November, Koffler Gallery presents a solo exhibition by the Toronto-based interdisciplinary artist Nichola Feldman-Kiss. The multi-layered presentation encompasses Siren III, a new large-scale single-channel video installation and surfacings, and a new installation of video prints. At the core of SIREN is a reflection on concepts of diaspora, migration and displacement, the paradox of national boundaries and borders within an ecology of elemental flows. Find more info here.
Get in to the Royal Winter Fair for Free (if You’re a Student)
One of Toronto’s most iconic events, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, celebrates its 100th anniversary as it returns to fill the exhibition grounds with visitors -- many of whom come year after year. Running until November 13, the fair features the best of Canadian food and agriculture, with equestrian competitions, world-class chefs, farmers, and food vendors from across the country in attendance. Best of all, students get in for free all weekend long. Find more info here.
Take a Trip at Psychedelics: The Experiential Exhibition
Discover why psychedelics are having a moment at Psychedelics: The Experiential Exhibition. The mind-expanding, immersive event will feature captivating experiential art exhibition that has the power to change perspectives as they learn more about the history, facts, and fascinating growth of the world of psychedelics and their uses around the world. Find more info here.
Watch Toronto’s Christmas Tree Arrive at City Hall
Christmas comes early to Toronto this weekend with the arrival of the city’s official Christmas tree at City Hall. The 16.75-m tree will be delivered to Nathan Phillips Square this weekend in preparation for the 56th annual Cavalcade of Lights presented by Desjardins taking place later this month. The public is invited to experience the delivery, lifting, and assembly of the tree on Saturday, in what will be an all-day affair. Find more info here.
Immerse Yourself in Stunning Wildlife Photos at the ROM
If you have a soft spot for wildlife and captivating photography, head to the Royal Ontario Museum this weekend, as the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition officially opens on Saturday. The anticipated annual competition features some 100 wildlife images from talented photographers from around the globe. Find more info here.
Get Your Groove on at the Marc Anthony Concert
If you’re in the mood for a high-energy, feel-good concert, hit Scotiabank Arena this evening to catch Marc Anthony. The American musician and salsa artist will grace the stage as part of his celebrated PA'LLA VOY TOUR. The anticipated show was originally scheduled for December 2021, before the pandemic had other plans. Find more info here.
Drive Through a Dreamy Christmas Trail
Canadian Tire’s light and entertainment-filled Christmas Trail returns to offer a dreamy drive-through holiday experience. The event features dazzling lights, live entertainment, and festive treats, as guests embark on a 1.5-km journey through decorations and interactive displays. Guests can even capture a photo of Santa from the comfort of their own vehicle. Find more info here.
Make Fetch Happen at the Mean Girls Musical
The anticipated Mean Girls musical has finally opened in Toronto. The show sees the 2004 cult classic film reimagined as a vibrant musical set in the present day. The hilarious production offers a dose of nostalgia in the form of both nods to the film and in its portrayal of high school triumphs and tribulations in this talent-packed production. Find more info here.
Transport Yourself to 1813 at the Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience
The city’s Bridgerton fans are invited by the queen herself to transport themselves back to 1813 to the most coveted and sophisticated ball of the season. Guests will be immersed in a world of costume, dance, music, cocktails, and performances in a grand ballroom reflective of royal times past. Find more info here.
