ART LOVERS:

March Break at The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): March 14 to 22

Jump into hands-on artmaking, sing along to classic Beatles favourites performed live by Lego Money, a Toronto Garage Band, grab your complimentary AGO PLAY activity booklet, and set off on gallery adventures, including scavenger hunts, games, quizzes that turn every visit into a fun-filled, interactive experience. Youngsters can create art inspired by Paul McCartney’s Photographs 1963-64: Eye of the Storm. Design your own paper cameras and create a film strip of imagined photographs.

Lumière: The Art of Light at Trillium Park, Ontario Place from 6 pm to 11 pm

Visit this outdoor exhibition as the sun sets in the city. The FREE exhibition showcases bold and imaginative works by talented Ontario-based artists across diverse disciplines, Lumière brings this year’s theme — “Rhythms of Light: Motion, Sound, and Time” — to life. Warm up by the Trillium Park firepit  Friday and Saturday evenings, and nightly during March Break (weather permitting).

Toronto Winter Stations: Woodbine Beach until March 30

The windswept shores of Lake Ontario, set against the striking skyline of Toronto, have long inspired bold new ideas for art in public space. Each winter, the city’s dormant lifeguard towers become compelling focal points for imaginative installations that transform the waterfront. This year’s theme Mirage, playing with our perceptions of what is seen and what is real. Winter Stations exhibition attracts thousands of visitors to Woodbine Beach and Kew Beach, infusing the coldest months with creativity, colour, and a strong sense of community.

Art of Brick: YZD, 30 Hanover Road, Downsview Park

Art and LEGO® enthusiasts in Toronto are invited to step into a bold and visually stunning world at Art of the Brick, the acclaimed contemporary exhibition by celebrated artist and pop culture icon Nathan Sawaya. This immersive showcase is a vibrant tribute to colour, imagination, and creativity.

Spanning more than 1,800 square feet, the exhibition features an impressive collection of Sawaya’s original works — from playful creations like a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton crafted entirely from bricks to a brand-new piece inspired by Toronto’s iconic architecture, created exclusively for the city.

Visitors can explore larger-than-life sculptures, interactive discovery zones, and striking reimagined masterpieces, including David by Michelangelo, The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, and Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci — each thoughtfully reconstructed using LEGO® bricks.

UTme! Design your own T-shirt at Uniqlo (booths at Toronto Eaton Centre and Yorkdale): ongoing

Combine photos, images and text any way you like to create your original design in-store. This ongoing service is fun for all ages. Create your own t-shirt or Tote (with purchased T-shirt or Tote bag) with your own images from your phone or select images from their online library. Designs are inkjet applied on the spot, so you can take it home right away! Details here.

ON STAGE IN TORONTO:

Love You Forever and More Munsch at Young People’s Theatre until March 21

Step into the wonderful world of Robert Munsch — Canada’s most beloved children’s storyteller. Bursting with heart and humour, this award-winning stage adaptation brings five treasured tales to life: Mortimer, The Paper Bag Princess, Murmel, Murmel, Murmel, Zoom!, and Love You Forever.

Get ready for gloriously loud bedtimes, unforgettable characters, and even a larger-than-life dragon springing from page to stage. Whether you’re discovering these stories for the first time or reliving childhood favourites, audiences of all ages will be swept up in this joyful tribute to growing up — from its giggle-worthy moments to the powerful bonds that tie us together.

Pinocchio with the National Ballet of Canada: March 13 to 22

Olivier Award–winning director and choreographer Will Tuckett created Pinocchio for The National Ballet of Canada in 2017, inspired by the classic 19th-century tale of a wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy.

At its core, the story is about love — with the devoted Geppetto guiding Pinocchio as he learns what it truly means to be human. Tuckett artfully weaves the original fable’s moral lessons with endearing characters, enchanting stagecraft, and playful touches of Canadiana, resulting in a magical and heartfelt production that captivates audiences of every age.

&Juliet: Royal Alexandra Theatre, ongoing

Created by Canadian writer David West Read — the Emmy® Award–winning talent behind Schitt’s Creek — this laugh-out-loud musical turns the world’s most famous love story on its head. & Juliet dares to imagine: what if Juliet chose not to end it all over Romeo? Instead, she sets off on a bold new adventure, rewriting her story with a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love — on her own terms.

Juliet’s empowering journey unfolds to a soundtrack of fun pop hits, including “Since U Been Gone,” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life,” “That’s The Way It Is,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” — all crafted by legendary songwriter and producer Max Martin, who has delivered more No. 1 hits this century than any other artist.

Step into this high-energy romantic comedy that proves there’s life — and love — after Romeo. The only tragedy would be missing it. Great for families with tweens and teens.

ICONIC NEIGHBOURHOOD DIY TOUR:

The Well: This captivating hub is somewhere worth exploring with lots to do for families with kids. Spend time at Arcadia Earth to explore our world in this incredible multi-sensorial immersive experience. The exhibit pairs incredible artistic installations with exciting and emerging technologies focused on the environment, sustainability and climate change. Create your own charm bracelets or necklace at GEM Studio. Visit Mr. Surprise for the hottest blind boxes to add to your toy collectibles. Visit Wellington Market, our favourite food hall with many offerings including Bear Steak Sandwiches, JapaDog (Japanese Style Hot Dogs), Shake Therapy (cotton candy over the shake is a fave!), Samosarie (colourful samosas!), Honestly Good Chicken Fingers, Isabelle’s Mochi Donuts, Rosie’s Burgers, ChaTime, and more. Crumbl Cookies is also located at The Well.

Graffiti Alley: Explore the urban outdoor art scene along Toronto’s most famous alleyway just south of Queen St. West (starting at Spadina). Oodles of fun photo opps. Then, head to the corner of King St West & Spadina to  The Carbon Snack Bar for lunch to try their latest Raclette & Pastrami sandwich — an oooey, goooey, comfort meal made-to-order (available only at lunch time). What else is nearby? The Art Gallery of Ontario and 401 Richmond.

St. Lawrence Market: Explore what National Geographic named the Best Market in the World (2012). With over 120 vendors, this massive food marketplace caters to all ages. Since 1803, it’s been a culinary destination in the city. Visit the various shopkeepers and take home fresh ingredients to create your own meal from scratch. Need some inspiration? Recipes can also be found on their site. What else is nearby? Young People’s Theatre, Museum of Illusions, and The Hockey Hall of Fame.

AND MORE TO DO IN OUR CITY:

Little Canada: 10 Dundas Street East (Yonge & Dundas)

Explore Canada all in one day here in this awe-inspiring attraction! From coast to coast to coast, Little Canada offers an incredible look at some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, streets, and even a few little surprises! At the special Build A Tiny Tree Workshop (March 16-22), guests will craft a miniature tree using similar materials the Makers use to bring Little Canada’s landscapes to life. This magical, hands-on experience is perfect for makers of all ages, from curious kids to creative adults. You can choose to leave it so it will be planted in Little Canada in the future, or take it home as a keepsake to remember your adventure. In addition, every miniature tree built will help support a real tree being planted in Canada through One Tree Planted. (*note an additional $10 for tree building workshop)

SHARKS Exhibition at The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): open until March 22.

Dive into the anatomy, behaviour, and history of sharks, from familiar favourites like Tiger Sharks and Great Whites to lesser-known species like the Dwarf Lanternshark—a tiny, light-producing marvel small enough to hold in your hand. Through dozens of interactive exhibits and life-sized models, including a life-size head of the huge extinct Megalodon, visit for a unique look at these magnificent creatures, their habitats, hunting techniques, and the conservation threats that they face.

Space Explorers: THE INFINITE at GYGO Canada – Square One Shopping District, 99 Rathburn Rd W.

NEW to Toronto! Inspired by the Primetime Emmy Award®–winning series Space Explorers: The ISS Experience, produced in collaboration with NASA and leading international space agencies, this groundbreaking production is the world’s largest collective immersive experience dedicated to life in orbit.

Set off on a virtual expedition to the International Space Station, where breathtaking 3D 360° cinematic VR places you both inside and outside the ISS. Experience the realities of daily life in space, float alongside astronauts on a spacewalk, and take in awe-inspiring views of our brilliant blue planet from above. It’s a powerful perspective—one that just might change the way you see the world.

Imagine Dragons at Casa Loma: March 14 to 21 (9 am to 5 pm daily)

This immersive daytime experience transforms Casa Loma into a fairy tale setting filled with dragons, live theatrical performances, and interactive storytelling designed for kids and families. Guests will travel through the castle and down the 800-foot underground tunnel to the stables, where the Dragon’s Lair awaits, bringing a mythical world to life.

Evergreen Brick Works: 

Bring the family to the heart of Toronto’s ravine system and explore nature. Hike along the paths for fresh air. Visit the dedicated Children’s Garden. Enjoy free skating at the outdoor rink with snow-covered gardens under exposed beams from the roof of the old brick factory (skate rentals $). Visit Saturdays for the Farmer’s Market (9am to 1 pm). Enjoy a lunch or snack at The Picnic Café.

Toronto Zoo: March 14 to 22

Winter at the Zoo has loads of outdoor and indoor excitement. Stroll through five indoor pavilions bursting with lush greenery and wildlife from around the globe, get up close to more than 3,000 animals, and explore 10 kilometres of scenic trails. Take part in special programming with the Ontario Science Centre, meet your favourite PAW Patrol characters, wander through the Orchid Oasis, and so much more.

Elevate March Break at the CN Tower: March 16 to 20

Visit the 50-year-old landmark during March break —  it’s also National Engineering Month! Visiting the CN Tower is always amazing, but March Break brings more activities for all ages! Additional activities include… Build and test your very own paper gliders. Discover the engineering behind building your aeroplane and then test it to see how far it’ll fly! Build your very own electrical circuits. Using aluminium foil, lights, and batteries, build and test your own circuit boards! Build your own structure. Explore principles of structural engineering or let your creativity flow with our K’Nex and Kapla building stations. Balloon Rockets. Test out how forces, mass and motion are connected. Make your very own rocket using string, a straw, tape and a balloon and watch it fly!

There are some special offers for families to save $ on admission. Visit here. What else is nearby? Toronto Railway Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and The Bentway.

Demetres Dessert Destinations –  A Sweet Escape! (all 11 GTA locations)

No passport required, just bring your appetite to Demetres during March Break and explore worldly inspired dessert offerings. Think Ube Eats Liège Waffle (Philippines), Philippines – Ube Eats Liège Waffle (Japan), The Mangolorian Belgian Waffle: (Costa Rica), Hakunafa Matata Belgian Waffle (Dubai), Burj Kunafa Fruit Cup (Dubai). Around the World – Flight of Fancy with 10 scoops of artisanal handcrafted ice creams and sorbetto is a show stopper, over-the-top, and shareable tasting experience!

March Break Fun at The Promenade (Centre Court): March 16 to 21

Families are invited to celebrate March break with a full week of free, family-friendly entertainment. Festivities include live stage performance by Juno-nominated children’s entertainers Sonshine & Broccoli (March 17), Art Sessions hosted by Happy Palette Studio (reserve spot online), Big Blog Fun Zone (LEGO Stations, Duplo, building workshops).

STAYCATIONS:

Fairmont Family Moments at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel

Turn time together into a treasured tradition with Fairmont Family Moments: a March Break week of playful programming, thoughtful perks, and royal-worthy dining in the heart of Toronto. What to expect: meet Roy the Lion, Royal York’s cuddly mascot upon check in, the Family Rec Room (March 16 to 20) includes daily movie screenings and games. A Meal for Monarchs (March 14-21) at REIGN Restaurant & Bar, where every Little Royal is crowned with a tiara or crown for this three-course dining experience ($35 per child). Families and the Little Royals also enjoy access to the indoor pool and exclusive family discounts to Toronto’s most beloved attractions.

Hotel X Toronto:

Feel like you’re away at this hotel by the lake. Hotel X is within walking distance to Trillium Park (where you can visit the Lumière: Art of Light outdoor exhibition). The hotel also brings back their popular Retro Arcade with timeless throwbacks, fan-favourite classics, and new additions like Dance Dance Revolution, Pop-A-Shot, and 8-player foosball. New this year, Retro Arcade is levelling up its snack game with an on-site vending machine stocked with retro favourites, adding even more nostalgia to the experience. Tickets to Retro Arcade are complimentary for hotel guests and $27.18 for an all-day play pass for outside visitors. Several onsite restaurants. 10XTO Kids Play Centre. Check out their Family Fun Package here.

Family Fun at Sheraton Centre Toronto: 

The ultimate spot for a “playcation” in the city, with great deals to be had on rooms, as well as a packed calendar of family focused activities for all ages. Make a splash at Toronto’s largest heated indoor/outdoor pool on the third floor – no flight needed. Endless entertainment can also be found in the Kids Clubhouse, a dedicated space open daily featuring arcade games, foosball, air hockey and more. Also expect twisty balloons and caricature drawings at breakfast, bird house painting, face painting, animal encounters, and even a kids’ rave, the hotel delivers a full week of daily activities designed for effortless family fun. Calendar here.

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Little Canada: 10 Dundas Street East

If you haven’t visited Little Canada recently, or ever, now is the time to go! Explore the impressive miniatures sized cities and landmarks in this incredible attraction.This unique visitor experience showcases the stories and landscapes of Canada through the art of miniature. Little Canada features seven destinations, including Little Niagara, Little Toronto, Little Golden Horseshoe, Little Ottawa, Pétit Québec, Little East Coast, Little West Coast, and the latest addition Little North complete with Aurora Borealis and a few other cute surprises. You can even have your family little-ized and be part of the attraction!

Little Canada has a special Family Day Weekend offer for  15% off if you book online here.

Family Day Weekend at The Art Gallery of Ontario: February 14 to 16

Get ready for three days filled with joy, imagination, and togetherness. Join in interactive art making and guided family-friendly tours to creative projects you can dive into together; every moment is made to inspire and entertain. Discover art in unexpected ways, make a little magic with your loved ones, and turn the museum into your February playground.

Some activities planned: Inspired by the work of David Blackwood: Myth & Legend, kids can create mini artworks and sculptures to create a winter wonderland installation that will take over Walker Court. Gather for artmaking at the Art Carts: a roving maker station with activities to explore art through the senses. Create a time capsule of your family and save  to be opened at a later date.

LEGO at the Canadian International Auto Show: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 700 level of the South Building, February 14 to 23

LEGO Group is bringing a show-stopping, family-friendly experience to the floor, the Canadian debut of a life-size LEGO® 1950s Cadillac Fleetwood Sixty Special Cool Down Car. Fresh from its debut at the FORMULA 1® Las Vegas Grand Prix, where it transported Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and George Russell to the podium, this eye-catching build blends pop culture, automotive history, and LEGO brick creativity. Built with 418,556 LEGO elements, including a record-breaking 123,426 pink bricks, the fully drivable Cadillac is inspired by Elvis Presley’s iconic pink car and captures the glamour of the 1950s with a LEGO brick twist. It’s also the first life-size LEGO brick car with a functioning trunk and spare tire, making it a must-see attraction for Auto Show visitors of all ages.

LEGO’s booth will offer a range of activities to enjoy for families and fans, including a LEGO Play Area where kids can build and race their own creations. 

High Tea at Casa Loma: February 14 to 16

For all our little princes and princesses, an afternoon tea in Toronto’s magical castle is an enchanting way to celebrate the Family Day long weekend. Enjoy a selection of premium teas, scones, gourmet pastries and tea sandwiches. High Tea guests will be permitted to tour the castle as part of their reservation.

Arcadia Earth (The Well): February 13 to 16

If you’re looking for an indoor escape downtown that is exciting, educational, and interactive, then Arcadia Earth is it!  Families can explore the immersive Arcadia Earth exhibits alongside added programming designed for kids and parents alike, including: Free, drop-in sustainable crafts, complimentary cotton candy served daily from 12–5pm, music, and other hands-on activities. Learn about planet earth like you never have before.

Family Day Weekend at The Royal Ontario Museum: February 14 to 16

The Lunar New Year takes centre stage this Family Day weekend with exciting programming, live performances, and themed activities to enjoy with family and friends. Hands on craft activities including a Wishing Tree, Chinese Calligraphy demonstrations, story time, music, and pop up lion dancers. For shark fans, dive into the fascinating world of sharks and learn why these iconic ocean predators deserve our respect—not our fear! Visit the very popular shark exhibition.

Aga Khan Museum Family Day Weekend: February 14 to 16

There’s lots happening at the Aga Khan Museum this weekend including Winter Fest (February 14) outside at the Aga Khan Park. Watch master carvers from Ice Guys transform blocks of ice into striking sculptures. Participate in outdoor winter games designed for all ages, from relay games and bowling to igloo building and snow-ready challenges that make the most of the season. Head indoors to enjoy arts and craft workshops (lantern painting, metal embossing, clay tile workshops, fan painting and more)

TREE at Young People’s Theatre: February 14 to 22 (suitable for ages 6 months to 3 years and their adults)

This wonderful interactive experience is designed for the wee explorers! Settle into Mama Bird’s cozy nest and experience the magical world of Tree! This thoughtfully designed multi-sensory production will transport little theatregoers to a luminous universe filled with enchanting puppets, soft lights, and gentle melodies. Audience sizes are limited, allowing young children to explore the forest’s wonders through personalized one-on-one interactions with performers.

Toronto Railway Museum:

Located in the John Street Roundhouse National Historic Site, the Toronto Railway Museum (TRM) is in the heart one of North America’s popular tourist areas. Located a short walk from Union Station and just steps from the CN Tower in downtown Toronto. Since 2010 the Museum has shared Toronto’s rail and transit experience with local residents and visitors from around the world. The TRM operates year-round.

“Mirage” Winter Stations: Woodbine Beach, Opens February 16

This public exhibition is an international design competition held annually in Toronto, Canada. Since 2015, artists, architects, designers, and students  are invited to reimagine lifeguard stations as interactive public art installations, transforming city beaches into an open-air exhibition each winter. The result is the winning designs showcased in an open air exhibition and free to explore. This year’s theme is MIRAGE and asks the artists and the public to explore the boundaries of what is seen and what is real. 

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: February 15 and 16

It’s a “jaw-some” time learning about life under the sea but even more fun is planned for Family Day Weekend! Visit craft stations, sensory station, game station, temporary tattoo station, and book giveaway station. Explore the exhibits and learn about life in our lakes, oceans near and far. Check their site for special Family Day Weekend offer.

The post What To See And Do This Family Day Weekend in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

No matter the season, a weekend away from the city is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of life, a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature, our loved ones, and ourselves. And it’s extra special when its a boutique, one-of-a-kind getaway in a place with an established reputation, like Picton. Nested just 2.5 hours outside of Toronto, Picton boasts plenty of offerings, from all natural self-care to a range of wineries in Prince Edward County, like The Grange, and even boutique shopping.

In the middle of it all is The Royal Hotel, a newly opened space that combines the history of the area and modern design ethos. A hotel has occupied the space for centuries. The Sorbara family, who owns the hotel, wanted to keep the idea of it being a gathering space for the community alive. As a result, executive Sol Korngold notes the local goods sold in the shop, the farm-to-table dining experience, and the shared spaces as visions born of that idea.

The history is ever-present, with original photographs of the space when the Sorbaras first found the building that is now The Royal Hotel, a 1950s-style gym in the basement, and vintage-feeling wallpaper and effects throughout the lobby. In each room, silver plateware found inside the hotel holds tableware for coffee and tea, exposed bricks create a warm, cozy vibe, and homages to the community prove the locally driven intentions of the hotel.

A particularly bright gem is the hotel’s restaurant, as executive chef Albert Ponzo brings the farm-to-table experience to life. A seasonal menu depends heavily on what’s available on the land he often visits, the hotel’s own Edwin County Farms. Guests can enjoy salads, pastas, and more in both the indoor and outdoor spaces, both of which offer a convivial vibe and do not require a hotel stay to enjoy.

The Royal Hotel’s location also ensures that there are activities aplenty close by, independent of the season. In the summer, the hotel has a pool, and it’s proximity to wineries like The Grange and local ice cream shop Slickers is ideal for both solo travellers and a family getaway, while hiking trails are ideal for fall, local boutiques like Savon Du Bois and The Royal Hotel’s in-house spa are perfect for a spring reset, and wintertime brings snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and absorbing the history at The Regent Theatre.

The space itself is design-forward and modern, with sun-drenched common areas, a lounge with games, reading materials, and even a guitar, and plenty of options for coffee and light bites for grab-and-go or quick service options, crafted with the same farm-to-table mentality as Ponzo’s sit-down eatery. At The Royal Hotel, rich colour schemes meet earthy neutrals and natural elements to create a cottagey feel that seeps into the well-sized rooms, and the details that combine innovation and restoration.

The Royal Hotel’s thoughtful restoration, its ideal location, and its farm-to-table offerings and year-round activities make it an ideal place for visitors of all desires. It’s located at 247 Main Street in Picton, Ontario.

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An Ancient Healing Tradition of Tok-Sen

Tok-Sen, found in the northern regions of Thailand in the area of Chiang Mai,  translates to “tapping the energy lines.” It’s an ancient therapy said to have originated over a thousand years ago. Rooted in Lanna culture, this practice combines the physical with the spiritual, aligning the body’s energy flow through rhythmic vibration. The skills of this unique healing are passed down from generation to generation.

The technique uses a wooden mallet and wedge-like stick.  Traditionally, the instruments are carved from Tamarind wood struck by lightning — a symbol of nature’s raw power and transformation. Master Thai Masseuse Pii Saipin at Lamai guided me through the experience by gently tapping along the body’s Sen line,s said to clear blockages and restore balance. Thai Massages are known to work with Sen lines – the energy lines that impact flow.

About the Taps and Tones

The first few moments of Tok-Sen might surprise you — a light, hollow tapping sound echoes, almost like the gentle rhythm of a wooden drum. The sensation is equally unique as the vibration travels deep beneath the skin, moving through muscles and tired points in the body.

Rather than intense kneading or stretching, the repetitive tapping produces a deeply relaxing, almost meditative effect.  As the rhythm of the beats continued, tension melted away, and I was really surprised that my mind was able to drift into a state of calm.

Benefits of Tok-Sen

While the gentle tapping may seem simple, the benefits of Tok-Sen are felt in many ways. The vibrational therapy helps to:

• Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
• Soothe nerve pain and numbness
• Release deep muscular tension without heavy pressure
• Encourage energy flow and balance
• Promote mental clarity and stress relief

And Tok-Sen can also be gently used on the face, helping with releasing tension, improving circulation and lymphatic drainage.

A Spiritual Experience

Tok-Sen is more than physical therapy; it’s often also viewed as a spiritual ritual. The rhythmic tapping is said to “wake up” the body’s internal energy, reconnecting you to a sense of presence. It’s common to feel energized and serene.

Tok-Sen massage is a reminder that healing doesn’t always come from force — sometimes, it comes from rhythm, resonance, and the subtle art of vibration. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient roots or simply curious about new forms of therapy, this centuries-old practice offers a uniquely grounding way to reconnect with your body’s natural energy.

What To Expect at Lamai Thai Massage in Toronto

Lamai Thai Massage in the Yonge and Lawrence area of uptown Toronto recently opened and is located above the popular Pii Nong Thai Eatery and Market — making this a destination for the ultimate Thai experience right here in the city. The fresh new tranquil spa space offers Tok-Sen as well as traditional Thai massage (yes, they will stretch and walk gently on your back – definitely worth trying as well!).

Each visitor is provided with comfortable attire to wear during the massage treatments. There are traditional lower massage mats (three in an open area with drawn curtains) as well as a private couple’s room that are used for massages. A sunny room offers foot massage chairs and an express sitting massage chair.

They also recently added Dine & Massage Experience packages with Pii Nong Thai Eatery. Definitely worth checking out! Several offers, including a Couple’s Retreat, a Solo Serenity, and a Royal Thai Indulgence Package. The Midday Recharge Package is a real deal – 30 minute sitting massage and a 3-course lunch for $49 (Monday-Friday).

Don’t be surprised if you feel rested and energized after this experience! It’s worth trying, and I haven’t seen it offered anywhere else in Toronto.

To learn more, visit the website LamaiThaiMassage.ca

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Hues of Spring Afternoon Tea at Shangri-la Toronto Hotel: Thursdays to Sundays, until May 11

The most exquisite Afternoon Tea of the season has arrived at this luxurious hotel. With an overall blush pink theme, the chefs here have created a most memorable experience, including arriving tableside to create a picture-worthy sweet finish. Begin with a glass flute of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic Raspberry Fizz. Then, choose a fresh brewed pot of tea from the curated menu (the Shangri-la Signature Tea is a favourite!) before the delightful selection of savoury and sweet arrives. Each morsel is freshly made in-house using the freshest ingredients. The presentation is also meticulous and breathtakingly beautiful. As always, our much loved scones are part of the three-tiered sweet arrival. Don’t miss the house-made preserves! There’s also live music – a lovely way to enjoy the season. Reservation required.

Luxurious Spring Epicurean Getaway: Shangri-la Toronto Hotel

For an unforgettable spring retreat, the hotel also offers two unique experiences designed for culinary enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Guests can book The Epicurean Getaway— a two-night stay with daily breakfast and an exclusive shopping expedition at the historic St. Lawrence Market led by an expert chef, followed by a three-course dining experience at Bosk, embracing the Rooted in Nature philosophy. The second experience is a Heli Adventure in Niagara package that offers a scenic helicopter ride over Niagara Falls and the wine region, and a three-course meal at Peller Estates Winery, paired with the winemaker’s selections before returning to Toronto.

SakuraFest at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre: 6 Sakura Way, until May 11

The first ever SakuraFest has begun with an incredible line up of live performances, film screenings, art demonstrations and workshops, culinary experiences, tea ceremonies, family-friendly events and more. The festive celebration honours the cultural and seasonal significance of Sakura through the lens of Japanese heritage, tradition, artistry and community. Yes, there are Cherry Blossoms happening early May on the grounds surrounding the JCCC! See our complete write up here.

Hanami “Flower Viewing” during Cherry Blossom Season:

Part of enjoying the views of cherry blossoms is gathering with friends and family to admire and even bring some snacks to enjoy together. Bring your picnic blanket and food under the blossom canopy. We recommend ordering up the beautiful Sakura boxes from Hello Nori to take with you. Wondering where to go? High Park is always a favourite. The paths to the trees are limited to pedestrian use only during the busy spring season. Other great spots include Centennial Park, Spencer Smith Park, Birkdale Ravine, and Trinity Bellwoods Park.

Jane’s Walk: May 2 to 4

This annual community-building tradition honours the legacy and work of Torontonian Jane Jacobs –  a journalist, urbanist and activist whose writings championed a fresh, community-based approach to city building. She saw cities as ecosystems that had their own logic and dynamism, which would change over time according to how they were used. She wrote eloquently about sidewalks, parks, retail design and self-organisation. At the core of her work and thinking was the need to get out and walk your city and observe how people, through their actions and interactions, create communities with a strong sense of belonging.

Jane’s Walk was founded in 2007 as a community-led way to honour and commemorate her work. Today, thousands of people worldwide take part in this annual event. Volunteer-led walking tours help to make spaces for people to observe, reflect, share, question, and re-imagine the places in which they live, work and play; giving agency to and championing the voices of everyday people. You can find the Toronto list here.

Evergreen Brick Works: ongoing

Explore one of our favourite urban spaces this spring by joining in one of their free public tours, shop the Farmer’s Market, admire the wildlife and creatures in their natural habitat (do so peacefully without disturbing or feeding, please), food vendors, and visit the public gardens. Visit their garden centre to discover and bring home what’s ready to plant in your very own garden oasis. You can access the Lower Don parkland for a hike as well.

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