The Nutcracker: by the National Ballet of Canada: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. December 4 to 31.

James Kudelka’s The Nutcracker ballet here in Toronto is considered one of the most beautiful productions in the world. This year celebrates 30th anniversary. The iconic tale adapted from E.T.A Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King takes audiences on an enchanted journey from a festive holiday party to the sparkling palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy. It’s a timeless story that is a tradition for men.

The Nutcracker Afternoon Tea: at Shangri-La Toronto until December 28

Whether you’re heading to The Nutcracker Ballet or not, Afternoon Tea at the luxurious Shangri-La Toronto is always an unforgettable treat. In celebration of the National Ballet’s 30th year of production, the chefs here have created an enchanting tea experience that will delight fans. Savour festive bites like Smoked Salmon Croissants, Brûléed Foie Gras, and Wild Mushroom Tartlets, followed by Buche de Noël, Mont Blanc, and Eggnog Ornaments. Paired with fine teas and a sparkling or mocktail, enjoy this magical celebration of holiday joy and artistry. Reservations are required.

The Sound of Music: Princess of Wales Theatre  on tour in Toronto until January 4

This iconic story gets a refresh in this new stage production that brings all the familiar songs to the stage. The story follows a free spirited Sister Maria who is sent to serve as governess for the Von Trapp family of seven children. The widowed father, a navy captain, is void of any emotion and affection since the death of the mother of his children. It’s also a politically charged time in Austria, and he needs to make the right choice for his country and his family. Sister Maria’s optimism breathes life back into Von Trapp’s and teaches them how to sing once again.

That Choir Carols: Church of St. Mary Magadalene, 477 Manning, December 19, 20, 21

Celebrate the season with this warm and enchanting concert of festive favourites, soaring choral classics, and a few joyful surprises — all performed by one of Toronto’s most acclaimed vocal ensembles. That Choir Carols is community based and is quickly becoming an annual tradition. It’s a beautiful way to embrace the spirit of the holidays!

Narnia: Soulpepper Theatre: (Distillery) until December 28

This new musical inspired by C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia comes to life as audiences step inside the magical world. This latest adaptation brought to us by Bad Hats Theatre and the creators of the Dora Award winning Peter Pan, and Alice In Wonderland is a holiday adventure for audiences of all ages. Get there a little earlier! The lobby of the theatre has been transformed into Narnia’s winter wonderland! BTW, Your tickets will also get you into the Distillery Winter Village!

Robin Hood: A Very Merry Family Musical: Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre

Toronto’s most cherished panto returns with an eclectic group of characters to entertain families! This holiday favourite follows the story of Robin Hood (sort of). Robin and her friends on a medieval romp through merry old Torontoshire! Journey through the lush forests of High Park, go head-to-head with the greedy Prince John, and rescue those in need, all while spending quality time with your loved ones. Abandon the rules of a stuffy theatrical experience – the panto is a place to laugh out loud, sing along to pop hits, boo the bad guys, and help out the heroes!

Enlightenment: Knox Presbyterian Church

Take a pause during the holiday season at this beautiful 360º sight and sound experience set in this historical church located downtown Toronto. Inspired by the classical music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and set to choreographed modern day light technology, this 30-minute site specific production brings wonder to the holiday season. Created with visual projection mapping, Enlightenment is a beautiful way to take in the magic of the season. This is the newest addition to other host cities, including Madrid, Munich, Frankfurt, Toulouse, Santiago de Chile, and many more!

City of Craft: The Theatre Centre, December 5th to 7th ($5 entry fee paid at the door)

Featuring over 60 local and Canadian makers from across Ontario and beyond, City of Craft returns with this cherished event. Featuring some familiar and new artisans as well as hobbyist craft artists across many disciplines. The first 100 people to enter the market on Saturday, December 6, will receive a specially designed and screen-printed tote bag (printed by Kid Icarus and designed by Christopher Rouleau) filled with gifts from artists and friends of City of Craft.) Complete list of makers can be found here.

Distillery Winter Village: until December 31 

Toronto has our very own twinkly outdoor Christmas market experience right in the Distillery District, and it’s become a heart-warming tradition for locals and visitors alike. The history and the cobblestone laneways brings all the charm this season with makers, vendors, and even some of the city’s most adored chefs are here to bring holiday cheer! Yes, it’s very popular (for good reason) so plan accordingly. Best times to visit are weekdays off-peak hours and before 4 pm (free entry but see details on the site). Dress accordingly! Hours and ticket details here.

Also, save the date for A Very Merry Mirvish Holiday Concert at The Distillery Winter Village on Sunday, December 7th  at 7 pm. This year’s one-night-only and free performance features cast members from four Mirvish musicals: &Juliet, The Sound of Music, We Will Rock You, and Shucked (opening in Toronto in 2026). They’ll perform hit numbers from their shows along with a selection of holiday classics. Arrive early for this standing room only outdoor concert around the iconic Christmas Tree!

Some other festive finds to look for at The Distillery? Visit Narnia at the Soulpepper Theatre, the Jellycats boutique at Bergo, visit the Stranger Things living room set, check out all the TikTok viral foods, fuel up with a delicious protein hot chocolate at Balzac’s, pick up a one of a kind jewellery piece made by Canadian designer Julie Greco, grab the best Advent Calendar from SOMA Chocolatier before they sell out! And don’t forget a little gift for your pooch from Sniffany’s.

One of a Kind Christmas Show: Enercare Centre (Exhibition Place) until December 7

Toronto’s largest maker and artisan show celebrates its 50th year! Visit hundreds of local and national Canadian artists, designers, makers, and food purveyors. Get hands on with DIY workshops. Explore the Main Stage happenings. Sample treats in the always popular Flavours district. Meet emerging and established makers at this truly inspiring Christmas marketplace. More details here.

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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!

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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.

This latest garden fresh concept from The Distillery Restaurant Corp. celebrates health and the simple joy of eating naturally. Their mission is to offer the most amazing food that just happens to be 100% gluten-free without compromising on quality or taste.

Chef Esau Abraham Garcia Ramos, originally from Mexico, and has worked in kitchens in California brings his dynamic and diverse culinary experience to the city. He’s also the chef at Madrina Bar y Tapas that’s been recommended three years in a row by the Michelin Guide (2022, 2023, 2024) along with the Spain Food & Wine Certification  (2022, 2023). Prior to Madrina he also worked at the much loved vegan restaurant, Rosalinda, which unfortunately closed this past spring.

With a deep understanding of gluten-sensitive and gluten-free preferred diners, he is proving that no one has to sacrifice taste, texture, freshness and presentation at his restaurant. Carefully reviewing each and every ingredient Chef Esau has an enthusiastic interest in redefining the gluten-free dining mindset and it’s nothing remotely close to being boring.

The menu is designed so everyone can enjoy it regardless of their gluten preferences. From vibrant freshly-pressed juices, smoothies & healthy bowls, sandwiches and toasts, pasta and salads, and all-day brunch, Jardin’s offerings are as beautiful and richly satisfying as they look.

The Piña Colada Bowl is a delicately sweet taste of the Caribbean with pineapple, coconut milk, mango, banana, coconut yoghurt, granola, honey, kiwi, flax seeds, lime, and shredded coconut. Now, THAT is a sunny vacation in a bowl!

The Umami Ava Toast is unlike any other we’ve tried. Elevated flavours have us rethinking this brunch go-to. Here the stunning dish is dressed with miso, tamari & tomato sofrito, spinach, fresh avocado, crumbled feta, cherry tomatoes and cracked black pepper.

By the way, the bread here is surprisingly delicious compared to other gluten-free options that often leave us in the dry zone. Chef Esau mentioned that after trying many, they found the bread made locally at Cock-a-doodle-doo Bake Shop was above par.

The Shakshuka is a can’t-miss comfort dish presented in a hot cast iron skillet with brown rice, mixed with a flavourful spiced tomato sauce, baked eggs and mixed herbs.

The Shoyu  Tuna Bowl is a refreshing twist to an all-time favourite. The delicious bowl incorporates fresh ahi tuna, thin vermicelli rice noodles, pickled ginger and edamame drizzled with a light yuzu dressing.

Equally as eye-catching and tasty is the Chicken Salad Bowl teeming with fresh mixed greens, roasted chicken,  avocado dressing, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and crushed pistachios.

The Juice Bar serves up a colourful array of fresh pressed juiced made-to-order jammed packs with nutrients and goodness. And smoothies are blended with soul satisfying and filling ingredients to keep you fuelled and on the go! Forget that PSL…try their Pumpkin Pie smoothie! SO GOOD!

The restaurant itself is light, airy and relaxed. With white coloured walls, surrounded by lush greenery and natural wood, make this spot feel more inclusive. Very SoCal! You can grab and go or dine in with ease. A great spot to meet up with friends, dine alone or when feel like something yummy with the ones you love.

Jardin Kitchen + Juice Bar is located at 28 Gristmill Lane in The Distillery District. Check for open hours daily on their site here.

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1. CASA LOMA

Nothing says romance like a visit to a castle. Toronto’s most famous Casa Loma continues to make full use of the enchanting hallways and spaces with amazing events. Back is the beautiful Twilight Symphony at the Castle Concert series performed by the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestro Paulo Busato. Follow the tunnels through to the iconic stables of the castle to enjoy an unforgettable night filled with music. Make it extra special and book dinner at BlueBlood Steakhouse right on the castle grounds. Casa Loma’s famous High Tea is returning also for family day weekend and that’s always such a treat!

2. THE DISTILLERY DISTRICT

Bundle up and stay cozy at this year’s Après Ski themed weekends at The Distillery District. It will also be open on Valentine’s Day (February 14) from 3pm to 9 pm. Gather around toasty warm fire pits in the wintery picturesque setting. Wander the cobblestone lanes and poke into the many shops, galleries, restaurants and cafe to support artisans and small businesses. Enjoy food and drinks offered by local vendors in this historical part of town. Some favourite places  to explore here: SOMA Chocolatiers, Palgong Tea, Ontario Sake, Galerie Beauchamp, H2O Float Studio, Blackbird Vintage Finds, and Lemon Water.

3. THE POWER PLANT CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY & THE BENTWAY

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery (Harbourfront) has reopened its doors once again to the public with three new exciting exhibitions: Cree artist Brenda Draney’s largest exhibition to date titled Drink from the river, UK artist Amartey Golding’s In the comfort of embers, and an exhibition comprised of all local artists, in parallel. Bringing together six artists, including Toronto-based artist and writer Simon Fuh, emerging Trinidadian artist Anique Jordan, and Mi’kmaq (Metepenagiag Nation) settler artist and educator Julia Rose Sutherland, the group exhibition presents a variety of different mediums, like film, sculpture and photography. Admission free. Explore the latest works and then head next door to wander through the studios or visit a local restaurant or cafe to round off the visit. Or head over to The Bentway for outdoor skating check their schedules for DJs and other happenings. Skate rentals are available on site.

4. OTHERSHIP

Take your relationship (or friendship) to the Othership. This transformative bathhouse experience brings together breathwork, meditation, and awareness with the benefits of hot sauna and icy cold plunge baths. Group led sessions have different themes that are worth exploring. Leave feeling peaceful and rejuvenated. All good vibes here.

5. STRETCHLAB DOWNTOWN TORONTO

Get your flex on at the new StretchLab Studio downtown! This first Canadian location (there are over 400 in the US) is owned and operated by a Torontonian. It offers professionally trained flexologists who use the company’s proprietary (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching) techniques to help improve sports performance, increase range of motion and flexibility, reduce muscle and joint pain, improve posture, and reduce stress. All done safely and pain-free. You’ll leave feeling amazing! Sessions are customized for each person. Special promo now for Valentine’s!

6. UNDERGROUND PATH & ART WALK

Too cold to be outdoors? Take a walk through Toronto’s Underground PATH and explore the shops and restaurants and Art Walk. You can find the map here. Grab a fancy bubble tea at Cha Time Atelier and go check out the new public art installations at Commerce Court (King & Bay) and Southcore Financial Centre (York & Bremner). QuadReal Property Group have commissioned four Canadian female artists to create bright and uplifting pieces available for public viewing. Toronto artists Samara Shuter and Jessica Gorlicky and New Brunswick artist Alexandrya Eaton have six large-scale murals in Commerce Court. Find your way to Southcore Financial Centre to see Toronto artist Hello Kristen‘s work on the second floor PATH connecting 18 York and 12o Bremner. If you do decide to surface go see “The Pasture”sculptures by artist Joe Fafard at TD Centre (located in between the tall buildings in the green space). There’s also “Tembo, Mother of Elephants” by artist Derrick S. Hudson located at Commerce Court outdoors.

7. COOKING CLASSES AT LE DOLCI

They say “food is the language of love” or at least we think that’s what they say. Get into a studio kitchen and learn from the professionals and learn some new cooking or baking skills together. Create the perfect dessert or meal. From heart-shaped pasta making classes to delicious doughnut creation classes to a Master Chocolate Tasting event, these events are perfect for couples, friends or family to attend and learn a sweet new skill together. Le Dolci’s Valentine’s Day classes online.

There are many restaurants in our city that are getting ready to help make your Valentine’s a special one. Many have special menus and if you had to ask us about where to go that is always consistent with delicious food and wonderful hospitality, here you go!

8. DOVA and ARDO

We love DOVA as it hits all the marks. DOVA’s dining room is soothing and tranquil with it’s soft colour palate. The coastal Sicilian Italian menu is fresh and exciting. Chef and owner Roberto Marotta had his own restaurant in Sicily before he met the love of his life and moved here to Toronto. Everything about this restaurant, is all about passion. From the ingredients used – fresh produce and meats are sourced locally to the artwork on the walls from Marotta’s personal collection. He, and his wife Jaqueline have also imported their favourite Sicilian ingredients available for purchase. DOVA has a special Valentine’s Tasting Menu that is definitely worth booking in for. Also, check out his other restaurant ARDO — it’s another favourite of ours!

9. J’S STEAK FRITES

J’s Steak Frites reminds us of the restaurants in France where they only serve, steak and frites! And they do it well! The prix-fixe menu offers a locally sourced 10 oz striploin steak grilled to order, endless fries (seriously), side salad, and fresh baked bread.  Let owner Jad and his staff take care of you but save room for the incredible desserts! Pastry Chef Tara will make you swoon over her made-in-house creations and for Valentine’s special (February 12) diners will have a chance to decorate their own cake table side. This neighbourhood gem is perfect for a casual date night or with friends.

10. EATALY TORONTO

Dine and explore at Eataly Toronto’s Valentine Taste-Around (February 10). Taste your way around 10 different stations featuring delicious chef-curated creations with a focus on the Italian love of sweets with dishes such as Roman-style pizza alla pale topped with gorgonzola and hot honey, Sicilian style housemade canopies and more!  If you prefer a sit down meal, Trattoria Milano is a great escape within the busy Eataly food market. Tucked away in a corner behind curtains is a quieter spot serving traditional Milanese dishes including Osso Bucco, risotto, and Coteoletta alla Milanese traditional “elephant ear” a thinly pounded veal chop breaded and fried. This restaurant is offering a special six-course menu for Valentine’s.

OH…we know we said 10 but we’ll push it to 11 with this hotspot! Our team LOVES Marked Restaurant with their Weekend Resort themed brunch. Dishes are South American inspired as are the cocktails. Brunch offers unlimited small dishes and includes a bottle of bubbly! They have a great vibe that will make you feel like you’re away in paradise! Read our review here. 

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