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.

AGO Family Day Weekend: Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas Street West. February 14 to 17

The AGO welcomes families to join an all-day dance party with DJ OAKEVE, hands-on artmaking, storytelling, trading card collecting, live dance performances, guided tours of The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century, and so much more. Celebrate the energy of hip hop through its five elements: MC-ing (oral), DJ-ing (aural), breakdancing (physical), graffiti (visual), and knowledge (mental). This weekend will be a vibrant fusion of creativity and culture!

Aga Khan Museum Family Day Weekend: 77 Wynford Drive. February 15 to 17

Enjoy free performances, live calligraphy demonstrations, and family arts and crafts activities. Don’t miss a weekend of free admission to the Museum Collections Gallery and $10 admission to the current temporary exhibition, Light: Visionary Perspectives. The Aga Khan Museum will also be celebrating the Lunar New Year with workshops including Lantern Painting, Clay Tile Making, and more.

Also, on February 15 & 16 (12 pm to 5 pm), Aga Khan Museum’s outdoor park space will be a Winter Wonderland filled with activities including performances, outdoor winter games, arts and crafts and delicious food.

Arcadia Earth Family Fun Fest: The Well (Spadina & Front). February 14 to 17. 1 pm to 5 pm daily

The 17,000 square-foot, 10 room exhibit blends captivating large-scale art installations with immersive technology for an unforgettable experience. Featuring interactive projection mapping, augmented reality and virtual reality, Arcadia Earth makes climate change education exciting by showcasing the beauty of our planet like never before. Family Fun Fest weekend will include: sustainable crafts, visits with Earth Rangers and live animals to learn about wildlife conservation, a jungle themed bouncy castle, and earth-inspired face painting.

Fireside at The Distillery: 55 Mill Street; Weekends until March 16, 12 pm to 6 pm (also open Feb 14 and 17). Weather permitting.

Cozy fire pits, hot chocolate, and S’mores are warming up the city’s coolest winter weekends!  This event transforms The Distillery District into a winter wonderland straight out of a postcard with heated patios and fire pits. Wrap yourself under a HUSH blanket, sip something sweet, and roast marshmallows around one of the roaring fire pits outdoors. It’s the perfect recipe for embracing winter with your family. There will be MANY Hot Chocolate variations throughout the Distillery cafés and vendors including Cluny Bistro’s Strawberry Marshmallow Hot Chocolate (torched strawberry marshmallow, whipped cream, topped with pink fluffy cotton candy!). We’re sure this event will go viral on social media with all the sweet treats! Free entry to Distillery. Hot chocolate, S’mores kits additional $. No reservations required for fire pits and patio seating – but first come first serve.

Retro Arcade at Hotel X Toronto: 111 Princes’ Blvd. Exhibition Place. February 14 to March 16. 10 am to 11 pm daily.

Perfect for families, couples, friends, and gaming enthusiasts, Retro Arcade features timeless 80s and 90s classics such as Pinball, Mario Kart, Time Crisis, Street Fighter, Galaga, Dance Dance Revolution, and more, all in a vibrant, retro-inspired setting. The month-long pop-up returns to Hotel X on Friday, Feb. 14, just in time for the Family Day long weekend. During opening weekend, a retro-inspired photo booth will allow guests to take glamour shots or recreate awkward 80s-style family photos. Guests are encouraged to embrace the vibe by wearing vintage-inspired attire. Adding to the fun, Retro Arcade will host Retro Replay on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 to 11 p.m., where a DJ spinning live vinyl tracks sets a nostalgic atmosphere for gaming, snacking, and socializing. Retro movies will also be playing in the Hotel X Toronto Screening Room starting at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday with any Retro Arcade ticket. New this year, a public multiplayer Mario Kart tournament will be held on Sunday, March 16, the last day of Retro Arcade, with the winner receiving a one-night complimentary stay at Hotel X Toronto. Tickets and details here.

2025 Canadian International Auto Show: February 13 to 23. Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Celebrating the automobile since 1974, the Canadian International AutoShow features more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions spanning the North and South Buildings of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. With annual attendance in excess of 370,000, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. A leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive, it is a showcase for the latest cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, muscle cars, electric vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles and autonomous vehicles. Loaded with fun things to see and do for families too!

Fresh off the Formula 1 Constructor’s Championship victory in Abu Dhabi, McLaren has announced it will be showcasing a winning lineup of supercars at the Canadian International AutoShow. There will be five McLarens on display, including a GTS, 750S, Artura, and two P1s, one of which is constructed in LEGO.  A can’t miss!

Little Canada: 10 Dundas Street East. Open daily. Timed entry tickets.

While miniature, it’s certainly not small. This popular attraction spans 45,000 sq. ft – that’s two hockey rinks! It’s a place where the CN Tower stands 12 ft tall and the Bay of Fundy simulates the highest tides in the world with its 400L basin, and over 40,000 little figures call it home. There’s SO much to see! Little Canada is meant to be felt as much as it is meant to be seen and heard. Thousands of whimsical miniature moments and stories are waiting to be discovered. Perfect for all ages this indoor space.

On Family Day weekend, explore a wonder-filled adventure to Little Canada and create memories that last a lifetime with a special 50% discount on Child, Student and Senior timed tickets purchased for a visit between Friday, February 14th and Monday, February 17th. Offer excludes Adult admission.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: 288 Bremner Blvd. Open daily 9 am to 9 pm

Immerse yourself among thousands of awe-inspiring aquatic animals and get closer than ever before with interactive, hands-on experiences, unique animal encounters, and exciting events! The perfect mix of fun, learning and wonder. Explore captivating exhibits from enchanting Dragons to the interactive Ray Bay, where you can touch friendly rays and mesmerizing Jellies. Check the daily schedule for Aquarist experts as they talk about the fascinating underwater world. Timed entry and flex tickets available.

Bata Shoe Museum Art/Wear: Sneakers and Artists Exhibit: 327 Bloor Street West

Older kids might want to check this exhibit out! Explore the growing trend of artists using sneakers to challenge and redefine conventional artistic boundaries. Blurring the lines between art, fashion, and commerce, these collaborations offer consumers the chance to buy and wear creations by some of the most revered figures in the art world. Featured artists include Alife, Daniel Arsham, Hebru Brantley, KAWS, Keith Haring, Kenzo Minami, MSCHF, Peter Max, Ruohan Wang, Takashi Murakami, Virgil Abloh, and many more. (FYI Admission to BSM on Sundays is Free).

Meet Your Firefighters: Lawrence Allen Centre (700 Lawrence Ave. West), February 15 11 am to 3 pm

A fun meet and greet with local firefighters! Connect with local responders, learn about safety and celebrate the contributions and heroes in the community.

Also, in celebration of Black History Month, The Toronto Fire Services will host the ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE on February 22 at 895 Eastern Avenue from 11 am to 3 pm. Celebrate community and honour Black History month. Enjoy live demonstrations of technical rescues, learn fire safety tips, and tour Toronto Fire Services’ apparatus. Events are presented by Toronto Fire Services and Black Staff Network.

Toronto Zoo Family Day Weekend: 2000 Meadowvale Road. February 15 to 17

It’s a wild celebration weekend at the zoo! Aside from visiting all the animals and other creatures, there will be meet and greet opportunities with guests the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and a fun-filled Family Name Hunt Challenge for your chance to win a Wild Encounter Experience. The Zoo’s horticultural team celebrates the annual Orchid blooms in the newly built Greenhouse. You can also make this Family Day extraordinary with an exclusive Wild Encounter! This special experience offers a rare opportunity to do something different from your typical zoo day, getting up close and personal with your favourite animals (additional $$)

Winter Skating Trail at The Bentway: 250 Fort York Blvd (Free to skate. Skate rentals available for a fee).

Go ice skating under the Gardiner! Skaters are invited to cruise the popular 220m outdoor figure-eight skate trail. Skate rentals are available on-site on select dates. No reservations required! The Concession Stand is open daily from 12:00 pm – 8:30 pm.

Museum of Illusions: 132 Front Street East

Discover a brilliant collection of perspective-changing rooms, enthralling installations, and spellbinding images. The science based exhibits will teach you that nothing is ever quite as it seems.  Get ready to be mesmerized in this compact museum worthy of a visit!

The post What to do this Family Day weekend in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

The installations and historical works explore all realms of light — the light of eye, mind, and heart. Initially conceived with the Aga Khan Museum’s 10th year anniversary celebration in mind this year, the works illustrate various physical properties and symbolisms of light. It also showcases light’s universal ability to unite individuals, inspire empathy, and highlight the significance of diversity.

The Aga Khan Museum itself was actually built around the notion of light. Marianne Fenton, Co-curator of this exhibition and Special Projects Curator for the Museum, mentioned His Highness the Aga Khan’s vision statement of “Light” was an inspiration for the Museum. Architect Fumihiko Maki (Maki and Associates), took the concept and viewed the Museum to be considered a beacon or lighthouse in the centre of the city. He envisioned the Museum to be a place that celebrated light and interactions between humans and our surroundings. Surface materials used are a beautiful example of how light shapes the use of space and our perception at any given time of day. Anyone is welcome to come and discover a connection and shared knowledge regardless of where in the world they came from.

There are 11 stunning installations to explore within the LIGHT: Visionary Perspectives exhibition. Artists included Canadians as well as those who are internationally known. They represent a diverse range of cultures. They are emerging as well as world-renowned. Artists include Kimsooja, Tannis Nielsen, Anish Kapoor, Jamelie Hassan, Ala Ebtekar, Sanaz Mazinani, Mallory Lowe Mpoka, Olafur Eliasson, Ghazaleh Avarzamani, and Phillip K. Smith III.

There is an interplay between the installations but they hold multiple meanings and convey different messages. They also highlight the importance of language in art often use contemporary materials to break down barriers and create a sense of connection and to help share our perceptions and how we experience art.

We won’t reveal every part of this exhibition because it truly warrants an in person visit and definitely want some of it to be a surprise. However, we’ll highlight three of the jaw-dropping contemporary installations here and encourage you to spend the time to visit and experience them all.

TO BREATHE by artist Kimsooja (b. Taegu, Korea):

Visit on any given sunny day and you won’t miss the spectacular floor-to-ceiling glass courtyard as the playful sun beams in and transforms the soothing white space with a playful motif. Conceptual artist Kimsooja covers the glass exterior windows with a special clear film that creates a diffraction grating effect throughout the open space. Her work is about bringing our eyes to what is already there. She allows the sunlight to do what sunlight does. When the sun shines on the mashrabiya pattern, it diffracts the light into the colours of a rainbow. Yes, we’ve seen this before in science class and toys but nothing as spectacular as this!

This particular space was also designed by the architect with light and shadow in mind at any time of day. What is also exciting is how this will present itself differently each time someone views it. And with the 10th anniversary, this draws our attention back to the architecture that we may have seen many times over but in a different light.

“There’s this lovely kind of balance and it fills the space. It’s strong and very descriptive. It has a presence without being very invasive,” said Fenton.

She also spoke about bottari, a Korean tradition of wrapping, and carrying, unbreakable objects and gifts. It’s the idea that one’s belongings can be carried beautifully every day.  One could view this installation as a form of wrapping by the artist of the space.  She’s wrapping the space and creating a kind of safe space while also drawing attention to how the light diffracts into multiple colours. Fenton tells us that’s really a symbol of pluralism. “It’s the idea that we’re all as humanity pretty much the same, but also, we have our differences. There is uniqueness in each of us that is also celebrated yet we are also we are connected.”

mazinibii’igan / a creation by artist Tannis Nielsen (b. Red Deer, Alberta):

This Anishinaabe-Red River Métis multidisciplenary artist and academic explores Indigenous decolonization methodologies, oral histories, feminism and the relative infestation between Indigenous scientists and quantum physics. This incredible digital video installation narrated by Elder Marie Gaudet, a knowledge keeper and practitioner of healing songs and ceremonies (Turtle Clan Anishinaabe from Wikwemikong), invites visitors to step into this mesmerizing reimagining of Creation from an Indigenous perspective stemming from the Big Bang – believed to be the beginning of the universe.

In one of the Anishinabek creation stories, we learned about Gitchi Manitou (the Great Spirit/Great Mystery) and how he was alone with his thoughts. We learned how the thoughts bursted into moments of light. And with the accumulation of light the universe was created. This installation is about light and darkness being divided and creating life. We also learned when the artist was editing videos, she realized there were flashes of light on the screen that she couldn’t quite understand how the came about. She then started doing research and realize it was electromagnetic energy. So, she capture these moment and multiplied them, playing with them and worked to add more footage. “That was the starting point of this kind of electromagnetic energy that is invisible until it’s made visible.”

A THOUSAND SILENT MOMENTS (Rain Forest)by artist Anila Quayyum Agha (b. Lahore, Pakistan):

This internationally acclaimed Pakistani-American artist is recognized for her large-scale immersive installations. Her work was included in the Venice Biennale of works exploring light and shadow inspired by Islamic architecture. This is the artist’s first showing in Canada.

In this work commissioned by the Aga Khan Museum, the artist was inspired by objects and paintings found in the Museum’s collections. Elaborate laser-cut patterns of florals, vines, and animals are created in lacquered steel and LED bulbs. Like a rainforest, this installation is a balance of its ecosystems. The motives seamlessly work together as they cast shadows onto throughout the space. It serves as a reminder of how our world is interconnected with nature.

Historical Artifacts:

The exhibition fills the museum on the second level with ample space to experience it all. Be sure to conclude by returning to the main museum space where several artifacts tie in historical aspects mostly through the lens of Islamic and Muslim societies. Items are grouped here are more about light and the notion of life and faith.

“There is a chapter in the Quran known as the ‘light’ chapter, and there’s a particular verse called the ‘light verse.’ That has been a source of inspiration over centuries, including to this day for artists,” said Bita Pourvash, co-curator of the exhibition and the Aga Khan Museum’s Associate Curator.

Also featured, is one of the earliest devices that is used to tell time, and to guide where you are going. These devices made of metal harnessed the light of stars and the sun to guide to locations, time and space.

Another interesting artifact in a manuscript on loan from McGill University. A Latin translation of the Book of Optics by Iraqi scholar Ibn al-Haytham (Alhazen) in the 16th century (original written 1011 to 1021). He studied the structure of the eye and how our lens of the eye works. Prior to his theory, scientist believe that we see because light comes out of our eye. He was the one who turned that theory the other way around. Often referred to as the father of modern optics, this mathematician, physicist, and astronomer made significant contributions this was his most significant and influential work.

LIGHT: Visionary Perspectives is now open until March 17, 2025, at the Aga Khan Museum. The exhibition is great for multigenerational visitors. There are also a few activations for kids to get hands on to explore the theme further.  For hours and admission details visit www.agakhanmuseum.org

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IN BLOOM Flowers and Footwear at the Bata Shoe Museum takes a fresh new look at how florals have inspired design and materials around the world. For centuries, florals have been admired for their beauty. Many cultures also consider the symbolism behind flowers. In Japan, the spring cherry blossoms are symbols of beauty, purity, and honour as well as sacrifice. In historic Persian art, the rose symbolized beauty and perfection.  This gorgeous exhibition walks through the importance and influence of flowers in both design and material used in shoemaking.

Canadian Modern at the Royal Ontario Museum is a great exhibition that explores Canadian design and craft movement and the impact its made in this world. The exhibition features over 100 examples of culturally significant objects crafted in Canada. From fashion to furniture to electronics and more, each item has a story to tell. Discover the inspiration and the artists/craftspeople behind them and how they’ve made an impact on a global stage. Designers include Alfred Sung, Jeremy Laing, Daphne Odjig, John Fluevog and more.

RUMI at the Aga Khan Museum is opening May 13.  This exhibition invites visitors to explore the life and timeless legacy of Jalal al-Din Muhammad Balkhi (aka Rumi). Considered one of the world’s most famous poets this exhibition is a visual exploration of his early years  in Central Asia. It also offers a glimpse in his transformation into one of the most fascinating poets.

Reclaimed: Indo-Caribbean HerStories at the Gardiner Museum recently opened.  This mixed-media ceramic based exhibition spotlights the power, courage and strength of Indo-Caribbean women past and present. Artist Heidi McKenzie offers insight into the little known histories.

Glowness Lab at Kandl takes candle making to the next level. This guided experience invites participants to explore wellness, mind, body, and spirit. Using mood enhancing essential oils, colour therapy and the healing powers of crystals, mom can customize her own beautiful candle on the spot and ready to take home.

YOGA at the Art Gallery of Ontario is a peaceful way to start the weekend. Several dates available Saturday mornings at 11 am. (must book in advance, ticketed events) Bring your mat and a few other yoga accessories and enjoy a restorative morning yoga session in the Galleria Italia section of the AGO with a registered yoga practitioner, Karmit Ifrah. This is a gentle Hatha yoga session created to promote balance, strength, flexibility and stillness. Then take in the latest exhibitions (we love the new Wolfgang Tillmans retrospective located on fifth floor in the contemporary galleries) and stay for brunch at the AGO Bistro.

Doors Open Toronto is happening May 27 & 28. Explore some of Toronto’s architectural, cultural and social significant buildings and sites for free. There are over 140 locations to explore! Favourites include the Aga Khan Museum, R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, and Todmorden Mills. Complete list can be found on the official site.

Fleurs de Ville VOYAGE Spring Floral Installations at Bloor-Yorkville (May 10 to 14)offers a self-guided tour featuring the works of 35 outstanding floral artists. The colourful displays under the journey themed 5-day event will dot the entire area with stops along the way with special menus and features to celebrate the season. Floral Installations are free for the public to see. Complete list of locations available on their site.

Celebrate Her: A Mother’s Day Weekend Market at the Kimpton Saint George Hotel. Discover and shop all female-owned and local small businesses at this pop up event with mom. Tickets are free but reserve a spot here. all are welcome to this “sip and shop” event — wine courtesy of Grow Wild Wines. Vendors include skincare and beauty products by Radford Studio, upcycle bags and leather goods by Ronny Packs, sustainable home goods by The Keep Refinery, fresh flowers by Avida Flora and more.

Disney Animation Immersive Experience at One Yonge Street (Lighthouse Immersive) is a fun experience for Disney fans of all ages. Explore the world of Disney animated films unlike any other. Learn about the artists and the process behind some of the most iconic films. Then step inside the magic and take in an unforgettable overview of the greatest films in a larger than life 360º floor to ceiling projection.

And more just outside the city…

Avalon Lavender Farm is a first generation and family owned lavender farm located about an hour outside fo Toronto (in Mono). Bring mom to enjoy a Serenity Sunday experience hosed at the farm by a local florist.Guests will be guided through a floral centrepiece workshop and a stroll through the pre-season lavender fields. There will also be lavender wellness cocktails, personal charcuterie boxes, keepsake photo sessions and an Avalon gift bag. Tickets and more information available on their site here.

Haute Goat Farm is located about an hour’s drive just outside of Toronto to Port Hope and is a super cute and worth an afternoon trip for something different. Do yoga with Alpacas or Goats, walk the nature paths, and enjoy a casual lunch at the on site Screaming Goat cafe. For Mother’s Day they have a special day planned. “The Mother of all Mother’s Day” invites families to celebrate moms along with their animal moms. Activites include meeting the new baby goats, alpaca shearing demos, visits with Icelandic horses, goat yoga sessions, live music, and much more. Tickets are $10 per person (kids 5 and under get in free). Portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society of Port Hope.

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I AM HERE: Home Movies and Everyday Masterpieces is the latest exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ontario. The vast 5th floor space explores how we’ve documented our cherished and everyday moments in life. From early cave dwellings right through to today’s TikTok generation it’s a fascinating look at captured moments of life. Categorized by titles popular songs (We Are Family, Everyday People, Dance to the Music are examples), it’s a thoughtful exhibition that includes home movies, photography, artwork, letters, objects collected, and music from everyday people as well as icons including Andy Warhol. You may even want to get mom a year-long membership.

Immersive Frida Kahlo: at 1 Yonge Street. From the producers who brought the wildly successful Immersive Van Gogh, Immersive Klimt, Robert Lepage’s Library at Night and others comes this latest larger than life moving exhibition based on the works of artist Frida Kahlo. What makes this extra special are are rarely seen family photos that tells the story of the famous artist. When we recently met with Kahlo’s family members they explained that they wanted share insight from their perspective and were very involved in creating this experience with Lighthouse Immersive. “Everybody knows the sad Frida or the strong Frida,” said Mara de Anda, great grand-niece of Frida Kahlo. “But we, the family, have this other side of Frida to share. The HAPPY Frida. The loving, caring, and warm Frida. We are living in times of pandemic and war so with this kind of project, we want to inspire people to be better and to explore themselves.”

Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition: at Casa Loma. One of the most popular Royal Family members has a full photo exhibition on display at Toronto’s landmark castle. Over 100 of the most iconic images of the “people’s princess” are displayed throughout the upper level corridors and private residential areas. What makes this a must-see for Princess Diana fans are the personal and never been told stories behind the lens as shared by Official Royal Photographers Anwar Hussein and his sons Samir and Zak. This self-guided tour includes audio accompaniment (devices provided). Make it extra special and add on the traditional Mother’s Day High Tea experience.

IMAGE? The Power of Visual at the Aga Khan Museum: one of the most stunning places to be just a quick drive from downtown. This museum’s permanent collections are something to behold with artifacts and art from historically significant Muslim civilizations as well as contemporary Muslim communities and diasporas around the world. The core of its Permanent Collection — spanning a vast geographic area from Spain and North Africa in the west, across the Middle East, to South Asia and China in the east. A new exhibition titled IMAGE? The Power of Visual explores image-making over the centuries through the lens of historic and contemporary artworks from diverse Muslim cultures. The 62-piece exhibition reflects on humanity’s timeless preoccupation with images and explores their capacity to project power, reflect inner spiritual or poetic visions, give expression to ideals held dear, or express key aspects of identity.

Jake Epstein’s Boy Falls From Sky: at the Royal Alexandra Theatre (Mirvish). Toronto’s very own actor, performer, and writer takes to the stage in this autobiographical musical. You may know him from his Degrassi days or may even have seen him on Broadway in Spider-man: Turn off the Dark or originating the role of Gerry Goffin in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This show is about show business and his experiences that starts with his childhood belting out show tunes on family road trips to the unforgettable (sometimes embarrassing) moments in auditions and on stage. It’s a story of life and following your dreams even though it may not always be easy, memorable but not easy. It’s fun, witty and ever so charming. You may also want to look at upcoming shows & Juliet (from the Emmy-winning writer of Schitt’s Creek) and Harry Potter The Cursed Child.

Toronto International Storytelling Festival: May 6 to 15. Mom was your favourite storyteller? Then take her to this 43rd annual festival  that celebrates live storytelling, traditional and contemporary that promotes the sharing of values and cultures. Performers include Dwayne Morgan, Jenny Blackbird, Andrea Thompson, Albert Dumont, Alton Chung, Denise McLeod, and many, many more! Events happening in -person and online.

Willner Midge Gallery: Dawn of Life at the Royal Ontario Museum: recently opened is this spectacular new exhibition hall dedicated to nearly 4 billion years of our planet’s life. Almost 1,000 fossil specimens — more than 60% of them Canadian represent the dawn of life on this planet and are featured in this hall. The exhibition includes artist reconstructions, interactives and digital technologies to help visitors understand the staggering evolutionary journey reflected in the ROM’s fossil record. “Evolutionary game changers”, considered key moments in the story of life on Earth, help to understand more about the world we know today. A very cool family outing for all ages! While you’re there, if mom is an avid photographer or appreciate incredible details be sure to check out the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition also taking place at the ROM.

Cirque de Soleil’s KURIOS: Cabinet of Curiosities:  has been getting enthusiastic press wherever it lands, heralded as a return to “classic” Cirque. The story follows an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space and dimension in order to reinvent everything around him. Suddenly, the visible becomes invisible, perspectives are transformed, and the world is literally turned upside down. One Very Big Top can now be spotted along Lake Shore Blvd E., looming some 65 feet above Ontario Place. Mom’s go free on Mother’s Day! See details on their site.

Elmwood Spa: 18 Elm Street. There’s a reason why this day spa in the heart of the city continues to thrive. Their multi-level complex located in a heritage landmark building knows how to pamper moms from head to toe. Staff are attentive and here to make all the stresses disappear even for an afternoon. Mother’s Day packages are now available through their site – a few include three-course lunches to make it a complete outing at very worthy price points. Send mom on her own or spend time with her.

Fleurs de Ville FEMMES at Bloor-Yorkville from May 4 to 8. Toronto’s top florists bring this one of a kind event with 35 unique displays made of fresh florals. Sculptures will be on display throughout the area. This year’s theme celebrates culturally, politically and historically significant women including Catherine O’Hara and Margaret Atwood. All free to view. Tie in brunch or dinner at our nearby favourites including Joni Restaurant –  (Park Hyatt), Cafe Boulud (Four Seasons), and Eataly (Manulife Centre). For epic views visit the Writers Room Bar on the sweeping 17th floor where legendary literary icons have found inspiration.

DINING AROUND TOWN:

If you’re looking for places to bring mom for a special meal, check out a few of these impressive spots:

J’s Steak Frites recently opened on Queen West (formerly Dandelion) with one dish in mind. Steak. Frites. This concept has taken off in popularity in Paris and it makes sense for us moms who are just too tired to make any more decisions. Feed me and do it right. Guests can still decide on how they’d like their juicy locally sourced Canadian AAA striploin cooked. Drinks and desserts are also on the menu.

Selva is an unforgettable dining experience featuring an immersive multi-sensory night and dishes created by Toronto’s much loved Chef Nuit Regular (Pai, Kiin, Sabai Sabai, Sukothai). Vibrant colours of this neon jungle blaze the space of this restaurant/bar and the artistic dishes really play with your senses. It’s not what you expect and surprises await. Great for the adventurous mom.

Trattoria Milano tucked away in the corner of Eataly Toronto is this quieter restaurant that features traditional Milanese fare. Yes, Italian cuisine differs with the regions! Not to be missed is their Osso Bucco, the Milanese fried meatballs, the famous risotto a la milanesa Zafferano, and the La Tradizionale Cotoletta alla Milanese — a traditional “Elephant Ear” Thinly Pounded Montpak Farm Bone-In Veal Chop. The restaurant also has a very impressive and extensive Negroni program as well. Great for mom who’s always talking about her travels to Europe. Oh soon enough!

Casa Madera at 1 Hotel recently made a splashy opening. From Noble 33 – a hospitality group from Los Angeles this over-the-top restaurant is ideal for that mom who loves to be in the latest buzzy hotspot. Dishes are made to impress with Chef Olivier Le Calvez at the helm. Wow factor offerings includes seafood tower and Wagyu Tomahawk. Their Cristalino dessert is a showstopper (at $125) and yes, incorporates Cristal champagne. Cocktail list pays homage to the elements of life – earth, air, water, and fire. But if mom prefers something more farm-to-table with all the freshness of the joyful springtime then take her to 1 Kitchen Toronto (also located at the 1 Hotel). Here you can indulge in a delectable brunch  with mom including classics (hello eggs benny!) and a few more surprising delicious offerings — sweet potato waffle with buttermilk fried chicken (optional) is just an example! A fresh, bright and cheery spot for all ages.

Craig’s Cookies are perfect for mom if she’s not ready to go out just yet. Surprise her with a full box of the yummiest cookies in the city (delivery options available and they will ship across Canada).  They flavours are surreal. Cherry Blasters, Fuzzy Peach, Twix, Bounty, Nutella..the flavours go on and on. But really, Cherry Blasters are my favourite in case anyone is asking. Pre-order to claim your lot.

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