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.

SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAY CRAFT WORKSHOPS at ARCADIA EARTH (The Well): December 21 to January 5 (starting at 1 pm)

Arcadia Earth will be filled with festive fun and creative energy, as well as daily sustainable crafting experiences that will spark creativity and bring joy to visitors of all ages. Each day, guests can participate in innovative, eco-friendly holiday-inspired activities, including crafting cardboard and yarn ornaments, decorating wooden coasters, and making recycled star garlands. These hands-on activities are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit while embracing sustainability. Some of the activities include cardboard & yarn ornaments, egg carton penguins, salt painted snowflakes, scrap fabric trees and more. Visit their site for full schedule.

ROM for the Holidays: Royal Ontario Museum: December 26 to January 5

ROM for the Holidays is back for another year with enhanced programming, live performances, interactive activities, and hands-on fun. In addition to the daily fun, visit the three stunning special exhibitions including EARTH: An Immersive Journey, Nature in Brilliant Colour, and the Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

THE WIZARD OF OZ Ross Petty Panto with Canadian Stage: on until January 3 at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Our favourite Ross Petty panto musical theatre production returns to TorOZto this season bringing all the zany fun for kids of all ages. Julia Pulo (you might remember her in SIX The Musical) stars as Dorothy joining all-time cast favourites Dan Chameroy (Plumbum) and Eddie Glen (Scarecrow) in this comical twist in this classic tale.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING at Princess of Wales Theatre: (extended to August 30)

One of the most popular musicals roars once again in Toronto in this spectacular production of Disney’s The Lion King. Set in the African Savanna the story follows the life of Simba, a young lion destined to rule the kingdom. With incredible performers, innovative puppetry, extravagant costumes, and jaw-dropping set designs this production firmly secures its place as one of the top must-sees in the city.

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE with Cirque du Soleil: Meridian Hall until January 3

Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show was inspired by the classic Christmas poem “A Visit from Saint Nicolas” by Clement Clarke Moore. Memorable lines from this cherished classic bring to life this reimagined story about a jaded young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays. The production features thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack including holiday classics reinvented by Cirque du Soleil.

KIDS SCULA COOKING WORKSHOPS at Eataly: various dates and times

Nonna would be so proud of the young ones learning about and making Italian food. Kids can join in workshops from pasta making from scratch to pizza creations. Experienced Scula cooking workshops led by Eataly’s chefs. Take your creations home and also get a taste of one of Eataly’s popular dishes. Each ticket is valid for one parent and one child.

FREE ROLLER EXPRESS SKATING AT UNION STATION:

Back by popular demand! This indoor roller rink located right inside Toronto’s Union Station and it’s free! Guests must pre-register on their site and select a 2 hour time slot. Free skate rentals too. Note there are special events planned on some dates and designated all ages skate times. See the site for all details.

THE CULTURE OF HIP-HOP at the AGO: opens to the public January 7 (currently open to annual pass holders and members) *GREAT FOR TEENS

Co-organized by the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Saint Louis Art Museum, The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century,  makes its only Canadian stop at the AGO. Highlighting hip hops ongoing conceptual and material innovation, the exhibition features fashion, consumer marketing, music, videos and objects in dialogue with paintings, sculpture, poetry, photography and multi-media installations including Toronto and International influentials. Great for families with teens!  Tip: Ontarians ages 25 and under are eligible for a free annual pass! See the AGO site for more details on memberships and annual passes.

DISTILLERY WINTER VILLAGE: Distillery District until December 31

It’s a winter wonderland right in the city! With twinkly lights, shops and more. Kids and teens will love all the fun foods to explore (yes, they are now officially TikTok trending!) including S’mores Hot Chocolate, Christmas Poutine, Mini Pancakes, and so much more. Visit Santa (at Soul Pepper Theatre) indoors and you may even spot his elves and a few special events happening throughout. Of course, the massive centre Christmas tree is a real draw. We even spotted Jelly Cats here. Note: ticketed and timed entry.

ILLUMINARIUM AT DISTILLERY DISTRICT:

Explore the wonder of the festive season as Illuminarium transports you to three different experiences (tickets sold separately) Discover the world of Lite-Brite, with thousands of colourful lights. Have fun exploring, playing games and creating your own art in our most gamified immersive experience yet! The new show features an immersive narrative with interactive lights, gaming stations and friendly hosts. SPACE is an out-of-this-world immersive experience, take an extraordinary journey across the galaxy. Fly through a technicolour nebula, kick up dust on the moon, see Saturn’s rings up close, and weave through an asteroid belt. The third experience is Journey to OZ! Step into the enchanting world of Oz in a 60-minute, 360° animated musical that breathes new life into the beloved story. Walk the Yellow Brick Road alongside Dorothy, Toto, and friends as you encounter magical places, face fun challenges, and discover your true Oz identity with a live encounter with the Wizard himself!

Holiday Lights at Casa Loma: until January 4

The magic of the holidays comes to life in this stunning Winter Wonderland walk-through experience on the grounds of Toronto’s majestic castle. Meander along the garden path and through the tunnels and stables in this family-friendly holiday favourite. Warm up mid way with hot chocolate, apple cider and other festive fare. Meet elves, nutcracker soldiers, magicians, acrobats, musicians, Mr. Scrooge, Mrs. Claus and even the Grinch! A visit isn’t complete without a visit with Santa in his grand ballroom.

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS: Ongoing

Challenge your perspective in this fun and science-based museum filled with mind-bending installations, captivating rooms, and optical illusions that is sure to inspire conversation. Learn the difference of what you see and what you think you see.

SKATE TRAIL AT THE BENTWAY: beginning December 21 till February 17

One of Toronto’s favourite outdoor skate trails opens at The Bentway. Bring your skates and lace up to take to the ice under the Gardiner. The 220 metre outdoor figure-eight trail is family friendly and no reservations are required. Need rentals? See their site for details. Look out also for the annual Polar Skate and free hot chocolate dates!

WICKED MOVIE SINGALONG SCREENINGS: movie theatres across the city

You heard that right! Designated singalong screenings of Jon M. Chu’s WICKED will begin on December 25. Feel free to unleash your inner Elphaba and Glinda with other adoring fans. Now if someone could also offer dance classes to Loathing, please?

The post Family Fun Stuff to do in Toronto during the Holiday season! appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

STYLE:

Rose Boreal: This sustainable active wear company based in Quebec pays homage to the natural beauty that surrounds us every day. The line of cosy and comfortable garments is eco-responsible and long-lasting for those on the go and those of us who want to cocoon by the fireplace.  The brand prioritizes eco-conscious materials and ethical practices throughout its supply chain. We love their well-made line designed for life.

Espe (vegan) affordable designer bags: This female-owned Toronto-based company designs a stylish line of affordable handbags and accessories for both men and women. All are made with love, not animals and cruelty-free with materials that are ethically sourced and responsibly made. Premium PU vegan leather is used proving that vegan alternatives can be just as good, if not better.

Benjamin Gordon: Stylish, functional, and premium vegan is what this line of men’s bags and accessories is all about. Benjamin Gordon offers more options for men with utility driven designs made for daily use. Designed by Ben Pollex right here in Toronto.

Vessi Shoes: This company based out of Vancouver was out on a mission to create a shoe line that is both stylish and practical even in the rain. And they know rain! Their belief is that a rainy day shouldn’t stop us from getting outside. They’ve successfully created a  100% waterproof shoe with a patented knit material with an extra layer that keeps the foot dry while allowing sweat and heat to escape. The line now has several styles for men, women, and kids.

Jenny Greco Jewellery: Is a silversmith and goldsmith with over two decades of experience in the jewellery industry. She is known for her bold, modern, and contemporary designs. Located in the Distillery District in Toronto her studio showcases an impressive collection that features a blend of organic elements with cutting-edge design. Each piece is meticulously created by Jenny at every step of the process. Unique and truly one of a kind statement pieces makes this perfect for an outstanding person on your list.

Bondon Sauna Hats: Toronto stylist Alanna Davey has started a banya hat company. The hat is a woollen hat worn in the banya (sauna) to help regulate body temperature and its history traces back centuries to Central Europe. Each Bondon hat is hand fulled premium natural fibres (including virgin lambswool, merino, cashmere, alpaca, camel, and llama) and styles range from the traditional bucket to a minimalist baseball cap. The secret to a banya hat is that while it insulates outdoors, it wicks moisture away indoors. Seamless, Bondon remains bacteria-free — guaranteed.

Anne Sportun Fine Jewellery: Toronto-based jewellery designer has staying power for good reason, she’s been a go-to for unique and timeless pieces for bridal, special occasions and every day. In fact, my first piece of designer jewellery was way back when she had a shop in Mirvish Village. Today, her pieces continue to be sought after at her newly redesigned storefront on Queen Street West. Alongside her co-owner and daughter Haley, they continue to bring inspiring organic shaped pieces to customers.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS:

Plantd Life: Plant designer Tara Soloway grew her business organically. As a personal and business plant consultant, Tara believes that plants are vital to a healthy home and workplace. Plants inspire creativity and joy in every day. A gift of consultation or even a beautiful healthy plant is a thoughtful idea this holiday season.

Mobility House: your one stop clinic to help with flexibility, stretching, massage, and mobility. Their experts are with you every step of the way to ensure a seamless wellness journey. Located across from The Well, it’s ideal for many office workers and condo dwellers downtown.

Rumble Boxing: This is workout is a real hit! For something fun and energetic,  a gift card to this boxing studio the gift you didn’t expect to love to give or receive. Each classic heavy bag class offers a sweat sesh for those who like to switch things up. It’s fight club meets nightclub where everyone punches to the beat of the music in a dark room complete with flashing lights all led by professionally trained boxers and fitness motivators. Located in Yorkville as well as Midtown.

Othership: your wellness journey begins as soon as you step into the soothing space. Join in a guided breathwork session and embark on an experience that helps to regulate your nervous system, calm your mind, energize your soul, and feel part of a great community full of open hearts and minds. Through playful, powerful and curated breathwork content, Othership’s vision is to help people regulate their nervous system, feel happier and find greater meaning and connection in their lives. Take a friend and breathe. Locations in Yorkville and Adelaide St West.

THEATRE EXPERIENCE FOR THE HOLIDAYS:

Come From Away: This is one heartfelt and uplifting musical that everyone should see. This story is based on the true-life stories of what unfolded in Gander, Newfoundland during the tragic events of 9/11. The world felt like it stood suddenly grounded to halt and international planes were directed to land in this sleepy East Coast town and the local residences pulled together to offer shelter, food, and water to the tired and worried travellers. This is about faith in humanity and connections that will give you all the warmth and fuzzies. Tickets at Mirvish.com

The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada: This classical ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky is a holiday tradition and a visually stunning spectacle for all ages. The adventure begins at a Christmas Eve party in a 19th-century barn and introduces siblings Marie and Misha to delights beyond their wildest dreams, from magical creatures to savoury treats and the glittering land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Watch for the Cannon Dolls –often well-known faces! This year will include Olympians including Gold Medalist, Summer MacIntosh on December 20. Past Cannon Dolls included Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, Kyle Lowry, Tessa Virtue, Chris Hadfield, Rick Mercer, Sara Gadon and many more! Tickets at National.Ballet.ca

Wizard of OZ: The Toto-ly Awesome Family Musical (panto production): Canadian Stage Production at the Winter Garden and Elgin Theatre. This hilarious family production of a timeless children’s story is not what you would expect– if you haven’t been to one before, that is! The famous Ross Petty Panto returns but now with Canadian Stage who will continue this much loved Toronto musical tradition. This isn’t Kansas, nope.  Audiences of all ages will join Dorothy and her friends on a hilarious romp through the fantastical landscapes of TorOZto. Along the way, you’ll see astonishing sets, and spectacular costumes, and enjoy very silly parodies of hit songs by Beyoncé, Billie Eilish and more! Get ready to cheer on Team Dorothy as Plumbum, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow help to quash the mission of Wicked Witch of the West End and find their way to the CN Power to discover the identity of the Wizard of TorOzto. (Hint: she loves a bike lane!). By the way, kids get to boo and cheer and just be kids! Parents will love this one too! Tickets at CanadianStage.com

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Young People’s Theatre. Join Charlie Bucket on this delectable adventure into Willy Wonka’s world famous chocolate factory! A world of pure imagination awaits as Charlie, Grandpa Joe and four golden ticket-winners embark on a journey brimming with chocolate rivers, gumdrop trees and mysterious Oompa Loompas. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, now celebrating its 60th anniversary, enjoy this delightfully scrumptious musical adaptation that brings to life all of your favourite characters, songs – and confections. A gobstoppingly good time for the whole family! Tickets at YoungPeoplesTheatre.org

COOL EXPERIENCES TO WARM YOUR HEARTS:

AGO The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century  This incredible new exhibition explores the art, music, icons, style and fashion globally in what is considered one of the most profound movements of our time. Taking space on the 5th floor of the AGO, this walk through exhibit includes six themes — Language, Brand, Adornment, Tribute, Pose, and Ascension. Hip-hop culture is truly multifaceted, creative and inspiring. The exhibition is organized by the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Included amongst the international artists are Canadian features – check out the photography by Patrick Nichols titled “A Great Day in Toronto Hip Hop” which includes 103 key figures from as far back as 1976. The exhibition officially opens to the general public on January 4 but if you have an annual pass (only $40 adult annual) or membership early access is offered this December.

Casa Loma’s Holiday Lights and Christmas at the Castle: If you’re looking for something grand and spectacular to round off the holiday experience a visit to Toronto’s famous Casa Loma is a must. The Holiday Lights is a walk along the garden path and through the grounds and through the underground tunnel to the stables. Visitors of all ages will be in awe of all the twinkly lights and holiday decorations indoors and outdoors. Meet a cast of your favourite holiday characters from singing penguins, acrobats, musicians, magicians, Nutcracker soldiers, the Grinch, Mr. Scrooge, and more. Of course, visitors will find Mrs. Claus and the jolly guy in red himself!

Then, Christmas at the Castle is an enchanting way to explore the legendary Casa Loma indoors with 20 beautifully decorated trees created by designers and artists. Find them in the various hallways and private rooms of what was once the home to Sir Henry Pellatt. As you wander through at your leisure, you’ll be able to also see artefacts and priceless works of art and learn about the history of this famed heritage site.

Both events are ticketed. Coming up are also the famous Casa Loma Concert series from Rock Symphonies to Broadway and Opera hits, to classical music. Also spotted are festive hands-on workshops like Wreath Making. Make a night out of the experience and book into BlueBlood Steakhouse for an unforgettable fine dining experience.

Arcadia Earth at The Well: This immersive experience through planet Earth is worth exploring for all ages. Arcadia Earth is a multi-sensory journey that combines creative art installations and technology to inspire visitors to take action towards a more sustainable future. This immersive experience showcases the beauty of our planet and the impact of human actions on the environment. The mission of this experience is to inspire visitors to be part of the solution for creating a better world. Plus, if you haven’t been to “The Well” yet – definitely go! This is the most buzzed about area in the core of the city now. Round out the visit with lunch or dinner at places including Mandy’s Salads or the inspiring food court (not your typical food court) and set aside time to visit the shops and spaces.

The post Best Canadian Gifts & Experiences for this Holiday Season appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

LEGENDS OF HORROR: at CASA LOMA: until November 2

This is quite possibly the BEST year yet! For those, like us, who have made this a tradition expect some new immersive experiences in this walk through at your pace scream-filled night. Meanders throughout the grounds of our city’s famed castle. Casa Loma has once again been transformed into a fully dark and immersive theatrical experience. This  “promenade theatre”, takes audience participants through a 2 km trail commencing in the lower gardens of Casa Loma and winding its way through the castle’s bowels, tunnels and darkest spaces. Meet some ghoulish figures (actors) and be prepared to for fantastical animatronics to jump. The fun and very scream-worthy experience will be sure to be an unforgettable one! Need to catch your breath? No worries, there’s a mid-point pavilion that is great to grab an elixir or two.  Note: there are some “family friendly” times with no actors that won’t cause nightmares. Open October 3 to November 2. Tickets and Details here.

JAYMES WHITE SÉANCE EXPERIENCE: Stanley Garrison, Exhibition Place until November 30

Back for another year is this unforgettable night of conjuring spirits in this authentic Victorian-style séance. This year, White takes willing participants into the unsettling space of the historic Stanley Garrison. Located on the Exhibition Grounds, next to Hotel X Toronto. According to White, there are five to six resident spirits that are known to roam the premises. He’s excited to see who will come forth during these evenings. He also tells us the Barracks have a much darker vibe than any location he’s ever conducted these séances at. Highly recommend packing an overnight back and plan a stay at Hotel X to make an unforgettable mini-escape to decompress. This is the ninth year White has been offering these unique and fully immersive experiences. We can tell you first hand that each one is very different. Multiple dates and times. Tickets and Details here.

HALLOWEEN HAUNT at Canada’s Wonderland: until November 2

The spooky season opens from September 27 to November 3 on select nights here. If you love a scream-filled night, you’ll love this as the theme park transforms into nights filled with unforgettable thrills and unspeakable horror. Immerse yourself in the nightmare with seven terrifying scare zones, hundreds of monsters, heart pumping night rides, live entertainment and six mazes including the new Demons of the Deep where you’ll discover horrifying creatures lurking in a deserted underwater lab. Details here.

The theme park is also still open during the daytime on weekends! Camp Spooky returns for families with little kiddies. This experience includes scare-free attractions, live shows, costume parties, and trick-or-treating. Included in general admission. Tickets are available online here.

ANGEL MORGAN 25TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN SHOW: The Factory Theatre, October 18,

One of the most well-known psychics in the city will return to interact with audience members at this very special 25th anniversary show. At this event, Angel Morgan will once again tap into spiritual guides in front of a live (and otherwise) audience on stage. If you’re hoping to connect with loved ones, and even pets, as well as learn fascinating facts and lore from other cultures, this one can’t be missed!

BLACK LAGOON POP UP:  BAR MORDECAI (1272 Dundas St. West) October 16 to 31

The award-winning Halloween pop-up is masterminded by bar industry veterans Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage. Returning this October, this highly-anticipated event promises a spine-tingling immersive experience with a brand-new cocktail menu. Black Lagoon will haunt 35 bars across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, offering guests a wickedly delightful time. Submerging for its 4th annual year, the pop-up continues to captivate audiences with its dark, alluring atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails that embody the eerie spirit of Halloween.

HELL BAR POP UP:  at OFFWORLD BAR (739 Queen Street West), October 1 to 31

It’s apparently better to party in Hell at this latest sip and sin hotspot! Sinners and saints are welcome to celebrate the spooky season with this unique experience. Yes, it’s as fun as it sounds. With thematic cocktails and food you’ll want to sell your soul for. Just to give you an idea…Satan’s Meatball Roulette: Six meatballs arrive at your table on a plate. Two of them are invisibly infused with housemade ghost-pepper hot sauce. Are you and your friends brave enough to face the hellish heat? (Served with an optional tall glass of milk, for the unfortunate.) The Fallen Angel: Served in a hollowed-out copy of the Holy Bible, this premium cocktail requires a secret demonic code to access its powerful contents. Not only that, there are special events happening all month long including Tarot Tuesdays: Concerned about your ultimate doom? Celebrity tarotologist Laura Hokstad, of Rue Morgue’s Terror Tarot and CBC’s Coven, is on hand every Tuesday in October to read your cards and pronounce your fate. Campfire Ghost Stories: The most terrifying open-mic in the city. On Wednesday, October 9, bring your best ghost story to share on stage at Hellbar. We’ll have prizes for the best ones. Plus horror-cocktail classes, Sinful Sundays classic horror movie film screenings, and more! See the full slate here.

ILLUMI SPOOKY HALLOWEEN NIGHT WALK:

The ghouls and witches are back! The nights come alive with over 600,000 square feet and over 20 million bright lights and all things spooktacular at this autumn and Halloween themed walk through experience. Fun for the family and filled with wonder and imagination. All twinkly lights shine as soon as the sun sets. By the way, there is a designated dog friendly date as well on October 16. Details here.

GHOST WALKS at Exhibition Place:

Exhibition Place is commonly known for its bright lights, dramatic shows and large events, but lurking below the surface are a few well-kept secrets known only to staff who work the late shift. Every Friday in October, the local community is invited to join in one of the evening walks. Two hour walks led by Steve Collie of After Dark Tours takes guests beyond closed doors and through the haunted past. Cost is $15 per person with proceeds going to United Way of Greater Toronto. Details here. 

MORE HAUNTED TORONTO LOCATIONS:

We wrote about some of the most famous haunted locations in the city that you can visit from historic theatres to the Distillery District to the eerie building on U of Toronto campus. Some will offer tours to enter as well. Here’s our list! Link here.

You can also find a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Toronto pulled together by the Toronto Ghosts & Hauntings Research Society here. Just be aware of your surroundings.

NEIGHBOURHOOD PET EVENTS:

The Bentway Pet Howl’oween Event: October 26, 12 noon to 4 pm

Get your canine costumes ready, Howl’oween is back! We’re excited to present our beloved, annual spooky-season tradition on Saturday, October 26 from noon to 4:00pm at Strachan Gate on our main site. With presenting sponsor Ren’s Pets, we invite all Toronto dogs and their owners to participate in a fun, dog-focused afternoon with a costume contest, amazing pooch prizes, music, warm drinks, and local fur-endly vendors from Toronto Dog Mom Market. Bring your best tricks and treats!  Prizes for best costumes.

Yonge & Lawrence BIA Pet Howlaween Parade and Event: October 26, 10 am to 12 noon

No need to head downtown! Join in this fun neighbourhood and family-friendly Howlaween parade and event in support of The Farley Foundation. The parade (on the sidewalk) will walk a loop along Yonge Street while stopping at various shops and businesses for treats (for dogs and humans), samples, and more. Meet and greet with Angel Morgan (Pet Communicator and Psychic), professional dog photographer Mel Lem Photography on site, goodies at Spinks Veterinary Clinic, and more! First 100 pup families will receive a YLVBIA reusable shopping tote. Contests include Tickless  Canada (at Pet Valu, they’ll also have a photos station and other giveaways!), Land & Sea Pet Treats Bundles, and that much sought after glow in the dark Ghost Golden Retriever courtesy of Home Depot. Photo stations throughout. $5 nail trims at Sobaka Grooming Salon, coupons, and kids activity sheets from Panda Mandarin School. Bring your spare coins for the coin drop donation box. 100% of the collection will go to The Farley Foundation to assist those who are struggling financially to pay for veterinary care for their pets. Pets must be on a leash at all times. Costumes optional! Details here.

Riverside Howl-a-ween Dog Party: Joel Weeks Park, October 27, 10 am to 3 pm

Join in the fun and dress your spooky season’s best! Prizes for best dog costume contest will happen at noon. Free photo booth on site, and pawsome vendors too!   Note, family-friendly events happening also at Riverside Common Park. More details here.

The post Spookiest and most fun things to do in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Set across a 2km trail that weaves in and out of the Casa Loma main and adjacent buildings (don’t forget those stables!), Legends of Horror falls firmly in the camp horror category, favouring jump scares and a plethora of animatronic ghoulies that are just as likely to inspire laughs as screams.

If haunted houses are the original “immersive theatre”, then Casa Loma’s Legends of Horror – and its new neighbour, Zombie Apocalypse, must surely be among the pinnacles of the genre. There’s something delectably hideous waiting around every corner, though the real live actors – appropriately costumed up as all sorts of spooky creatures – are far scarier than the props and robots, simply by virtue of their unpredictability.

It takes approximately 1 hour to make it through – if you survive – with the only real weak point the annoyingly loud and overpriced bar set up in the middle of the haunt. So much for immersion!

That said, there are one or two moments of genuine fear and awe, particularly when things slow down and the lights begin to play tricks with your eyes. I scared the hell out of someone simply by hiding behind one of the props where we were sure nothing was lurking. It was the best fright of the night.

Horror fans will also want to check out the related Zombie Apocalypse “escape room” experience, just down the street in, of all things, an abandoned dental college. Featuring over 30 live performers and 20 rooms of terror – not to mention a particularly grim and highly popular zombie theme – the Zombie Apocalypse is definitely not for the faint of heart.

Combo tickets are available to attend both Casa Loma and Zombie Apocalypse – though not on the same night. Your heart couldn’t stand it.

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Buy tickets for Casa Loma Legends of Horror and Zombie Apocalypse here. On now until October 31, 2023.

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