Maple Days at Black Creek Pioneer Village: March 13 to 17. It’s maple syrup season at the Village! This tasty educational and fun outdoor experience returns with discovery of old fashioned skills of creating the sweet treat. Families can learn the skills and tricks of collecting tree sap and learn how it magically turns into the sugary goodness. More information available on their site.

Sugar Shack TO at Sugar Beach: March 11 and 12. FREE general admission.  This annual outdoor event will transform Sugar Beach into a fun filled weekend featuring all things maple. Two sugar shacks will serve up fresh made maple sugar taffy and there will be all sorts of maple infused food available for purchase. Maple Taffy $3 for 1 or 2 for $5. Cash or Debit only. Live entertainment and interactive activities for all ages. Dress for the weather.

Imagine Dragons at Casa Loma: March 11 to 19. Travel back to a world of fantasy and fables at a fairy-tale castle in an era of dragons and adventure, as Liberty Entertainment Group presents the return of its best-selling immersive theatrical experience, Imagine Dragons. Featuring Paramount Pictures upcoming release Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Multiple interactive live performances in the castle featuring period costumed characters will transport visitors both young and old, back in time to a bygone era of knights and maidens, fairies, and other worldly creatures. Follow the 800-foot underground dragon-infested tunnels to meet the beast… in the veritable Dragon’s Den. Themed programming includes A Tale of Two Brothers – fun, interactive and educational play demonstrating medieval sword action in the castle’s Conservatory, to next-level Knight School, located in the Library – where guests may participate in basic swordsmanship taught by the knights, including types of swords and the how’s and whys of basic sword play, from which students will graduate as Knights of Casa Loma, with an authentic certificate.

Medieval music concerts by five-piece ensemble, The Casa Loma Minstrels under the baton of Maestro Paolo Busato. Performing live in the Great Hall, visitors may meet the Maestro and interact with the ensemble and their musical instruments. An aerialist will demonstrate feats of wonder in the Great Hall, and guests are encouraged to visit the dungeon for Dungeons and Dragons film-themed art and crafts, before daring to visit the Dragon himself in his mythical lair. Tickets and times available on their site.

WinterStation at Woodbine Beach (FREE): The annual public art installations return to the Toronto east end beaches. Set along the waterfront award-winning artists and design firms transform existing lifeguard stations into structures worthy of a visit or two.  This year’s theme is RADIANCE. Dress for the weather and the terrain. Then pop up to Queen Street for a a bite to eat or a hot chocolate to warm up.

Lumière at Trillium Park, Ontario Place (FREE): March 10 to May 7. Explore the park and experience 16 illuminated installations developed by Ontario artists before stopping by the bonfire to warm up. Utilizing innovation, light and discovery, Ontario artists and creators will “illuminate” the park under a curatorial theme of “renewal”, celebrating the change of seasons from winter to spring. Dress warm and wear comfortable footwear for this outdoor experience. Lumière is open daily from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. with a bonfire hosted on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. More details on their site.

HAMILTON THE MUSICAL: Princess of Wales Theatre continues to August 20, 2023. If you’re looking for something to see with your older teen, this comes top of mind. The much buzzed about musical is a history lesson made for modern times. The story is about Alexander Hamilton’s life and legacy including his creation of the U.S. financial system. Grammy, Emmy and Tony award-winning playwright, actor and filmmaker, singer, rapper (the list is long) Lin-Manuel Miranda brilliantly weaves in music genres that are appealing multi-generations from hip-hop, soul, R&B, rap to traditional musical tunes. It’s an innovative and epic mash up that makes this a stand out. BTW, there will be 40 tickets at each performance available for $10 each. You may want to try your luck at to grab them in the #HAM4HAM Lottery. Details here.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre until June 9, 2023. Adventure runs in the family. When Harry Potter’s head-strong son Albus befriends the son of his fiercest rival, Draco Malfoy, it sparks an unbelievable new journey for them all—with the power to change the past and future forever. Prepare for a mind-blowing race through time, spectacular spells, and an epic battle in this incredible stage production.  Worth checking out is the Golden Snitch Ticket Lottery where you can nab $19 tickets to the show. Details on how to try your luck can be found here.

AGO PLAY: March 11 to 19. Art Gallery of Ontario’s kid-focused March Break programming includes artmaking, family-friendly tours of AGO Collection, a drop-in film screening in Jackman Hall andmaker stations throughout the Gallery and are all included in general admission as well as for members and annual passholders. Full listing of events can be found here.

T.REX THE ULTIMATE PREDATOR at the ROM: Opens March 11.  Just in time for March Break comes a brand new spectacular exhibition from the American Museum of Natural History. Featuring more than 40 models and casts, many full-sized and towering over guests. Visitors will also be invited to delve into the paleontological process with a special ROM Spotlight section highlighting actual fieldwork from a recent ROM-led tyrannosaur dig. Fans of this celebrity dinosaur will also have the opportunity to experience up-close an imposing real fossil T. rex skull almost five feet long along with other fossil specimens. Tickets are already on sale for this special exhibition.

March break at the ROM will also have family-friendly activities celebrating the beginning of spring. Highlighting the museum’s Art & Culture, and Natural History collections, their family-friendly activations feature many ways that wildlife prepare for changing seasons and showcase cultural springtime celebrations around the world.

Disney Animation Immersive Experience: One Yonge Street. Extended to July 9, 2023. Disney fans have a chance to explore the magical world in a unique and memorable way. Step into the world of some of the most beloved Disney animation films of all time in this larger than life experience. Created by Oscar winning producer J. Miles Dale (Shape of Water) leading a global creative team, Disney Animation Immersive Experience is a journey through the history of Disney Animation Studios from Snow White to Peter Pan and from Frozen to Encanto and many more. Tickets and more info can be found here.

Toronto ComiCon at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre: March 17 to 19. Experience the ultimate playground for fans of Comics, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime, and Gaming. Three BIG days of citywide events, family-friendly attractions and world-renowned celebrities meet and greets to be had. For families with young kids, check out the Family Zone featuring games and activities for all ages. There will also be a kids cosplay contest. So get creative! Some of the confirmed celebrities in attendance include Laz Alonso (The Boys, Avatar, Fast & Furious), Tomer Capone (The Boys, Fauda, When Heroes Fly), Claudia Doumit (Timeless, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, the Boys, Where’d You Go, Bernadette). Complete list on site.

The Darkest Dark at Young People’s Theatre: on until April 2.
A groundbreaking, magic-filled adaptation of Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield’s bestselling children’s book comes alive on stage. It’s 1969 and Apollo 11 is about to land on the moon. Nine-year-old space-loving Chris spends his days dreaming of becoming a brave astronaut. But at bedtime, the night closes in and so too does his fear of the dark. For Chris, watching history being made hinges on conquering his fear – and embracing the unknown.

Storm Crow Manor: This is more than a restaurant, it’s a fun place to explore for both adults and kids. Set in a historical house on Church Street is a multi-level space is filled with film props and pop culture themed decor. For families with young kids check out their Brunch Cartoons Days. Families with older kids may want to book in for the Mandalorian Dinner that includes showing of the latest season. Details on their site.

Little Kitchen Academy March Break Camp: Montessori-inspired cooking school for kids ages 3 to 13 offers March Break programming in line with the mini-chef school’s philosophy of education, able, and healthy society through healthy eating choices. They provide children with the tools and experiences in their cooking journey. Create meals together while incorporating  math and science concepts, reading skills, social etiquette and tables manners. Also learn about sustainable decision making including discovering what’s local, in-season, and organic. Several locations including The Beaches, Leaside, Mississauga, Oakville and the new space in Vaughan (opening March 6).

Pizzeria Libretto Pizza Making Classes: from March 13 – 16 from 4 p.m – 5 p.m., children aged 2-10 will learn how to make Neapolitan pizza from a skilled pizzaiolo, including the proper techniques to stretching and dressing an authentic Neapolitan pizza. For the finale of this rewarding tutorial, children will also be served a scoop of authentic Italian gelato. Book online.

FUWA FUWA Pancakes is worthy visit for their Japanese soufflé fluffy style goodness. Customers can watch Fuwa Fuwa chefs create iconic, Instagramable dishes like Japanese-style souffle pancakes as well as Basque burnt cheesecakes, Korean-style fatcarons and their latest must-try indulgence, croffles (a favourite a the CNE last year), in beautiful, light-filled open kitchens delivering a truly unique experience. Book online.

Eataly Toronto Kids Pasta Class: For parents with children 5 – 14, Eataly Toronto’s La Scuola is offering pasta-making classes for all the inquisitive minds looking to introduce fresh pasta to the rotation. There’s also a Kid’s Cannoli Class for parents with children aged 2 – 6. Both classes are in-person but FYI there are Marguerita Pizza and Cannoli making kits available to recreate in the comforts of your own home, or grandmas. Book online.

Winter Wonderland March Break at Friday Harbour: If you’re looking for a day trip or a few days getaway, Friday Harbour is an ideal spot that’s not too far out of the city. Approximately an hour’s drive takes you to the great outdoors with loads of fun things to do with the family. Check out the Harbour Skating Trail or Piazza Skating Rink. Hang out in the chalet-style cabins offering savoury eats and sweet treats. Get your cameras ready for photo opps along the Promenade. Make your own bird feeder. Huddle up to the campfire pits for s’mores. Check out the Ice Princess, Olaf, Fire & Hoola Hoop performances for free, and much more!

The post Best March Break Events for Families in Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Rolling Loud is bringing some of the biggest names in hip-hop to Ontario Place from September 9th-11th, and the city is ready.

Rolling Loud announced their Toronto line-up at the end of April, and it is safe to say this festival is coming in hot. Hip Hop  artists Dave, Future, and WizKid will be headlining the upcoming music event this fall.

This is Rolling Loud’s first foray into Canada and will be running in four different countries throughout 2022.

Looking for Canadian acts? No problem. Rolling Loud has no shortage of Canadian talent showcasing their music this year. Homegrown artists like Belly, Roy Woods, NAV, and Pressa are all set to perform at Ontario Place, the former theme park Canadians know and love.

Tickets are still on sale, so grab them while you can and make summer ’22 the best one yet. For more information, visit www.rollingloud.com/toronto.

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To stay up to date on all things Rolling Loud Toronto, follow their socials for more info.

Instagram – Twitter – Facebook

The post The Biggest Hip Hop Event is Coming to Toronto this September appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Immersive Klimt! A Revolution: 1 Yonge Street, Toronto Star Building. From the producers of the wildly popular Immersive Van Gogh Experience comes another larger than life digital production, this time featuring the works of Austrian artist Gustav Klimt. Considered a rebel of his time, expect to be immersed into his world filled with symbolism, colours and shapes. From Imperial Vienna to vibrant blooms and mermaids. It’s not just about seeing his work come to life but also to feel.

ByBlacks Restaurant Week: November 15 to 21. Various locations. The Fall edition of this food lovers’ event is coming up! Support Black-owned restaurants, chefs, and caterers with exclusive prix fix menu offerings. Meals range from $16 to $22. Each restaurant will offer a considerable collection of delectable dishes from across the diaspora that exhibit the authentic tastes of African and Caribbean cuisine. Full list of participating restaurants can be found here.

The Spectators’ Odyssey – o dell’Inferno: Dopolavoro Teatrale & TO Live. November 2 to 14.  is an immersive, contemporary multimedia theatrical experience that takes the audience behind the scenes of two of Toronto’s most iconic buildings, making the audience the central character in the narrative they experience. Inspired by Homer’s The Odyssey and Dante’s Inferno, the terms ‘Odyssey’ and ‘Inferno’ are used as metaphors and re-imagined to be two distinct epic journeys for the audience: BLUE and RED. In BLUE, audiences voyage through the remote parts of the backstage areas of the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, rediscovering what it means to be a “spectator”. In RED, audiences venture through the streets of the surrounding neighbourhood, finding themselves inside the St. Lawrence Market after-hours – a place of exchange where worlds meet through stories. Check our feature interview with Artist Director, Daniele Bartolini to learn more.

Older & Reckless — now more than ever: MOonhORsE Dance Theatre. November 5 to 14 (online event). The 2021 edition of the dance theatre’s acclaimed series celebrates mature dance artists. Curated by Artistic Director Claudia Moore, will feature innovative new dance films created and performed by notable dance artists Peter Chin and Christine Friday, Julia Aplin and Kim Farris-Manning, and William Yong.

Eternals: The IMAX Experience at The Cinesphere, Ontario Place: beginning November 5. The highly anticipated film will give movie lovers the opportunity to see this film on the largest possible screen, creating a truly immersive experience. Filmmaker Chloé Zhao had full creative control in the production to ensure her personal vision for the IMAX version was done right. Captured with high-resolution IMAX certified digital cameras, the Eternals will provide the IMAX viewing audience 26% more picture in the Cinesphere. You’ll fee like you’re IN the movie!

Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the ROM: opens November 13. The popular exhibition of winning nature photography will feature prestigious winners across nine main categories. The ROM is the international photo competition’s exclusive Canadian venue and North American debut host. The competition is organized and presenter by the Natural History Museum in London.

No Change in the Weather: CAA Theatre. November 19 to 27 (in-person). Direct from Newfoundland, this hit musical from Terra Bruce Productions celebrates the rich musical heritage of Newfoundland whilst telling a story about the personal and political shenanigans of Canada’s youngest province. The plot is built around the death of family matriarch Peggy O’Brien. Her family and friends sneak her corpse out of the funeral home (and tanning salon) and back across the water to her family home on the unsettled island of God’s Back Pocket. As this brood of body snatchers wake Peggy into the light, a wandering American and a newly stationed RCMP Constable from Quebec find themselves in the middle of a family racket that exposes decades of pettiness, secrets, and enough familial bad blood to ruin every Christmas for eternity. 

Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival: November 10 to 19. The 25th annual Festival is a unique showcase of contemporary Asian cinema and works from the Asian diaspora. A hybrid on in person and online screenings will happen at this year’s Festival including 18 feature presentations as well as shorts, industry conference, and more. Opening night in-person screening is Islands by Martin Edralin. Tickets and passes are now on sale. Our top picks here.

Shorts That Are Not Pants Film Festival: November 19 to 28.  The fourth edition of this Festival of Short Film will once again be virtual this year. This year will feature 70 films from 32 countries and will include narratives, documentaries, animated films Canadian films and more. The festival is a blend of new work and festival award-winners.

Snow Magic at Ontario Place: November 12 to January 16. Take a mythical drive through in this immersive 1.7 km wonderful filled experience. Unlike any other drive thru experience in the city, Snow Magic offers a world of fire, ice and fantastical sights. Eighteen incredible art installations created by some of Canada’s most acclaimed artists come together in this winter wonderland brimming with larger than life mythical creatures, crystal caverns, and a forest of light. Timed entry. Tickets available directly form DriveThruFunCo.com. Price ranges from $45 to $65 per vehicle (prices depend on peak and off peak times).

The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail: November 13 to December 23. The multi-sensory drive-thru experience returns this year with a 1.5 km trail located near Black Creek Pioneer Village brings the magic of the holidays. Twinkling lights, festive sets, live entertainers, merry elves and a special guest delight all visitors. Admission per vehicle $25 and must be booked ahead of time on their site. Tickets go on sale November 8. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities to benefit child and youth sports programs across Canada.

Candlelight Concerts: Vivaldi Four Seasons: November 5, 9, 10, and 24. Listeso String Quartet performs an intimate concert at the Metropolitan Community Church as part of the Candlelight series of concerts featuring well known composers in classical music. The quartet is surrounded by warm candlelight offering a stunning setting ideal for a quiet and inspiring evening out. Read more about the concert series here.

Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle!: 1 Yonge Street, Toronto Star Building. November 20 to December 24. From the producers of Immersive Van Gogh comes a new way to experience a holiday tradition. Enter the winter wonderland and experience the larger than life digital projections The March of the Toys and The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy like never before in this 500,000 cubic feet space.  Great for all ages.

Lessons in Temperament: Outside The March Immersive Theatrical Experience. November 13 to November 27. This theatrical and streaming tour of the cinematic adaptions of James Smith’s award-winning play Lessons in Temperament will have it’s World Premiere with an in person screening at The Meridian Arts Centre presented by TO Live – followed by a series of in-person and virtual screenings. This cinematic escape into the art and science of piano tuning and the precarious landscapes of the mind. An instrument goes out of tune water or not anyone plays it — something that musician and theatremaker James Smith knows all too well. So after months of being lockdown visit shuttered theatres and doing what he can to keep pianos in tune This ritual soon knocks James’ own search for blanche, growing up as one of four brothers living with obessesive-compulsive disorder, autism, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

POLAR Winter Festival:  Bandshell Park, Exhibition Grounds. November 25 to December 26.The magical holiday experience presented by The Concierge Club returns this year but this time it will be an outdoor walk through! Tons of photo ops with later than life decorations from giant teddy bears to a breathtaking Play Ice Tunnel filled with thousands of crystals.  The Bandshell stage will be transformed into Santa’s living room filled with festive decor for the perfect photo with Santa. A holiday market will feature local shops to get to your gift list. Expect a few rides as well on the Christmas train, classic carousel anymore.  Fill your bellies with holiday east from the food trucks or cuddle around the fire pits with cocktails at the Hotel X’s X-Lounge. Tickets start from $14.99 (rides and Santa photo packages are additional).

Looking ahead..

Hometown Holidays with the Barenaked Ladies: CAA Theatre. Looking ahead to December but tickets will go on sale November 1 to the public. BNL will have a run of holiday concerts that are not to be missed! These special performances offer fans a rare chance to see one of Canada’s most cherished musicians in an intimate setting. The show will consist of “Hits for the Holidays” and some of their greatest hits. “Snacktime” matinee concerts will offer family fun sized version suitable for all ages.

The post The Best of What to See & Do in Toronto this November appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

We checked in with Crystal Siemens, Snow Magic’s creative director, Torontonian and global nomad behind the upcoming winter wonderland to find out more…

What is the inspiration behind Snow Magic? 

CS: Expect the unexpected with storytelling! Innovative and beautiful, mysterious and fun, thought provoking and dreamy within a fantastical world is the inspiration for Snow Magic. The Drive Thru Fun Co. team creates an intimate immersive experience that is seen and felt and heard. Realize a true otherworldly adventure while enjoying surround sound in your car that is awe-inspiring with orchestral, natural and new sounds too!

There’s a story behind this experience, tell us more?

CS: A wonder filled Map and Art Cards (found on DriveThruFunCo.com) connect a tale experienced in three drive thru realms: Celestial, Terra Firma and Oceanic. It is within this narrative that fire, ice and light effects fuse to create 18 incredible moments of discovery. This superb gathering of acclaimed Canadian artists has sparked a Drive Thru Fun Co. collaborative opportunity to share a tale that is intimate and grand yet always innovative. Get up close to Sirius, the brightest star in the sky; feel the mighty presence of Tarna the Jackalope’s flaming antlers, a legendary creature; surround yourself in Icicle Cave, crystalline caverns; swim within Earth Resist, deep sea creatures; weave through the Enchanted Forest, animated tree sculptures. Flip the Art Cards and learn the tale for yourself!

You are the explorer. You are in an adventure. You are on a personal journey. Snow Magic invites your imagination to open, and dream.

Why drive through and not walk through as many arts & culture venues are safely opening up?

CS: Drive thru is a great way to discover your journey that is comprised of such massive sculptures and sights, plus, the soundscape composer is an amazing gifted storyteller. The exclusive soundscape composition is bold and emotionally engaging so you can choose the volume you want to play in your very own space shared with your loved ones! What’s not to love about that! The awe-inspiring sound moves with you, and is integral, as the tale unfolds. Additionally, lest we forget, we present Snow Magic in constantly evolving times and so we reflect that consciousness by creating something that can harbor any challenges and still be open – always – for everyone!

We planned the event to be a drive thru experience as we wanted a contactless and COVID-safe environment for our guests. The route is designed for cars and it is also quite cold down by the lake so we also have a way for our guests to stay warm. At this point there are no plans for walk thru or bikes.

How did you decide on which installations and artists to include? 

CS: We thrive on innovation and thus we enjoy to revolve in a space where thinking outside the box is the norm. Our love of original creation and exceptional artists is expressed well in Snow Magic. The team is diverse and thus connected to a vast network of new and established talents in art, music and culture from across the country. It is challenging to choose few among so many but it was absolutely thrilling to experience artists’ excitement when sharing our creative concept. Of course, the right chemistry for the Snow Magic theme is paramount. This collaboration is totally a joy and all onboard for this year has driven us to dream of future happenings to create. Our collaborative imaginations have no limit!

The selected Snow Magic artists are from across Canada and that diversity definitely is an inspiration for us. And, this year, we are super excited to also include an international artist, the Snow Magic soundscape composer, who came highly recommended from a well known Canadian music artist. We appreciate this kind of openness within the arts community and so we celebrate that too. Some artists are solo while others are teams and even large collectives. We love that! Artist mediums are diverse too: sculpture, lighting design, animation, projection mapping, analog and digital, experts in laser affects, wood, acrylics, fire, metal, fabric and printing.

Check out DriveThruFunCo.com Experience page. All Art inspiration and narrative is noted under each Art Card. Celestial, Terra Firm and Oceanic areas are shown on the Snow Magic Map and also Art Cards are color coded to match.

Here are the artists participating in SNOW MAGIC ARTIST LIST (in alphabetical order alongside art piece name) Note: some artists have more than one installation which is indicated with comma.

Brian T. Moore – Phantasmagoria, Blizzard, Cosmic Dream
Calabra – Icicle Cave
Max Streicher – Wild Torus
Metaverse Arts – Heavy Meta
Nadine Bariteau – Do Angels Exist
Nathan Whitford – Sirius, Snow Moon
Philippe Blanchard – Enchanted Forest
Ryan Longo – Anglerfish, Stingrays, Sea Tangle, Earth Resist
Studio F Minus – Escaping Gravity
Tarna Industries – Tarna the Jackalope
Snow Magic – Aurora Borealis, Castle (contribution from the Drive Thru Fun Co Creative Team)
Miff Zawadzki – Soundscape Composer

What can you tell us about the artist behind the audio experience?

CS: Miff Zawadzki is an original composition flows from the brilliant imagination of this narrative composer. A sound story that seizes the moment, is intriguing and heartfelt, expands the Snow Magic world. It’s a fusion of strings, horns, synthesizers, nature and new sounds too. Always compelling, it is playful yet mysterious and sometimes contemplative. Feel its mesmerizing pulse.

Miff is a United Kingdom national and is based there. Miff came to us highly recommended by a noted Canadian music artist. Included in our shortlist amongst Canadian musicians Miff stood out til the end. When it’s right, it’s right!

Will there be any point where visitors and the selfie-generation can get out of their vehicles?

CS: The Snow Magic experience truly surrounds you in a way like no other drive thru experience does. As you move through the tale you drive right up close, around, behind, beside and even through some of the creations! You sometimes even get to see the mechanics of how something works. This is in addition to the tunnels! We aim to stimulate and inspire but also encourage learning too. Basically you are completely ‘inside’ the experience for real. Lots of opportunity for instagram worthy selfies.

For our guest safety, distancing and traffic flow reasons, we have no stopping points to get out of the car and take a selfie, all photos that our guests take will be from their cars, selfies included!

What else should we know?

CS: In the comfort of your home, with family or friends, you can explore what the adventure holds for you at our website DriveThrufunCo.com. You can check this out anytime – when you book your tickets or after you have returned from Snow Magic. Take a deep dive into the EXPERIENCE page where you will find an adventure Map, an interactive flip card artist deck to learn the delightful inspiration story of why each piece is part of the tale, to find out about the game, or know about special happenings.

Check them out on social! Their handle is @drivethrufunco, where you will find pictures of art pieces in-the-making, artist bio close ups and happenings news.

Ticket prices for Snow Magic range from $45 – $65 per vehicle (peak pricing and non-peak pricing options). General Early Access Tickets are now on sale. Guests can choose preferred date and time slots for their visit. Drive Thru Fun Co. has also partnered with the SickKids Hospital Foundation, $1 for every Snow Magic ticket sold, will be donated to SickKids.

The post The dream-filled world of Snow Magic is coming to Ontario Place appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Winnie The Pooh: Exploring a Classic Exhibition: Royal Ontario Museum: March 7 to August 3. Celebrate the magical world of one of the most loved literary characters of all time. The exhibition will explore the origins, creation and enduring legacy of the classic stories by A.A. Milne and illustrations by E. H. Shepard.

Winter Stations at Woodbine Beach: until March 30. The international design competition is designed to get locals and tourists out to Toronto’s “Beaches” area during the winter season and explore art installations that spot the water’s edge. Now in its sixth year, the exhibition draws all ages to this free event. This year’s theme “Beyond the Five Senses” with four installations constructed on existing lifeguard stations along the beach. Take note of the installation titled “Noodle Feed” where visitors are also invited to explore the structure with Augmented Reality.

Sugar Shack TO: Sugar Beach. March 14 & 15, 11 am to 5 pm daily. The sixth annual all things maple sugar fest returns to Toronto’s Waterfront at this weekend-long event. Sample maple sugar demonstrations, samples, infused foods, enjoy entertainment including the Great Canadian Fiddle Show, Lumberjack show, and ice activities. Warm-up at the fire pits. Furry friends welcomed on leash. Free admission.

Sweet Water Season: Crawford Lake Conservation Park (Milton). Weekends, March Break from February 29 to April 5. Visit the reconstructed 15th-century Longhouse Village and learn how maple sugar was discovered and made by the Indigenous people of the land 600 years ago. Enjoy sweet samples and take in a nature walk.

Illusions: The Art of Magic: Art Gallery of Ontario until May 18, 2020. Curious about the world of magicians? This unique cleverly reveals the “art” behind the mysterious and very curious world. This collection of posters and magic items takes a look at not only the magicians of the Golden Era but also how they marketed themselves to draw the crowds. March Break will include pop activities throughout the AGO. Lots to explore including Yayoi Kusama’s permanent installation worthy of a selfie (be sure to reserve your time slot when you arrive) Don’t forget there’s free admission to the AGO for visitors under 25 years old.

Winter Light Festival: Ontario Place (West Island) until March 29. Free admission. The third annual night festival lights up the shoreline at Ontario Place. This year’s theme “Cocoon” features outdoor installations by Ontario creators. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays will offer up community bonfires and paint classes. Need to warm up? Check out what’s showing at the iconic Cinesphere theatre (entry fee applies).

March Break Activities at the Ontario Science Centre: March 14 to 22. Exhibitions, films, demonstrations and live shows are planned for this week off for all ages. Check out the Mind-bending Magic: The Science of Perception with magician Jay Sankey. AMD Gaming Showcase (March 17 to 21)features over 40 gaming PCs and two VR stations at this ultimate gaming experience. Keep your eye on the skies and learn about the stars, planets, and moons through song. And much more.

Get creative! at Apple’s Video Lab: Small Screen Magic Co-created with Zach King: Apple Store (various dates/times). Tweens and teens may have heard of Zach King from his amazing YouTube videos. He’s created some pretty amazing videos using his iPhone. Register for a free “Today at Apple” hands-on learning session at your nearest Apple Store to learn a few of his video content tricks that will impress friends and family. Other free workshops worth exploring include photography walks and making movie trailers (great for kids!)

Dino Dana The Movie stomps into Cineplex Theatres March 21 for a one-day-only prehistoric event. This family-friendly screening and interactive Dino Dana experience is based on the popular kids’ series. The movie follows a 10-year-old paleontologist in training Dana on an epic action-packed dinosaur adventure. Young fans will become certified Dino Dana paleontologists in training at the event. Tickets go on sale on February 21 at Cineplex.

Toronto ComiCon: Metro Toronto Convention Centre March 20-23. There’s always something for everyone at this fun fest! Meet your favourite superheroes, princesses, voice actors, comic book creators, and artists. There are meet and greets with celebrities including Brian Herring (Star Wars), Craig Parker (Lord of the Rings), Austin St. John (Power Rangers), and others. Visit the Family Zone. Feel free to dress up in costume.

Skate The Bentway: until March 22. In partnership with CBC Sports, this popular outdoor figure-8 skating rink located near Fort York will remain open all the way until March 22. CBC will be installing screens around the ice and will live broadcast the World Figure Skating Championships under this innovative public space. Bring your own skates or rentals available. Check the site for times and other activities planned.

March Break at Ontario’s Legislative Building: March 16 to 20

This free two-hour program invites families to explore this historic Ontario’s Legislative Building through a scavenger hunt activity. Make arts and crafts, dress up in traditional robes worn in Parliament, and learn about the history. Pre-registration is required, Children must be accompanied by an adult.

WANT A QUICK GETAWAY?

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto: If a mini getaway exploring the city is on your family’s radar, this luxury hotel is centrally located within walking distance to several great attractions including the ROM. But what caught our attention is the hotel’s in-house experiences created for families. “Mini Master Chefs” invite kids into the kitchen and learn how to recreate one of the Hotel’s signature desserts. We loved our family movie night complete with popcorn and treat buffet, and swimming of course!

Hockley Valley Resort is a pretty and quick drive out of the city and offers outdoor activities. The ski hill is mere steps away from your hotel room. March Break is full of family activities from family movie screenings, bonfire & s’mores, cookie decorating, craft rooms, a magician and more. Buffet breakfasts offer up something for everyone. A quick drive down the country road leads you to the Adamo Winery with a cafe and restaurant. Shuttle service also available.

Hotel X Toronto: located on the CNE grounds is a mini-escape located at the waterfront (within walking distance to Ontario Place) with family-friendly programming including family movie screenings at the hotel’s cinema, complimentary 60-minute family pass to 10xTO’s Golf Swing Suite, complimentary 2 hours of professional caregiver services (for up to two kids), and complimentary Library Club Lounge Access that includes daily continental breakfast, afternoon wine & cheese reception, and all-day refreshments. Families can also enjoy the heated, year-round rooftop pool. From March 11 to March 26 you can also book your family in for the “ultimate night in” at the NINTENDO SWITCH SUITE — all proceeds from the booking will be donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Nintendo will transform the luxury hotel’s Presidential Suite for a fun and immersive gaming stay for Nintendo fans! The suite will be complete with Nintendo “touches”. Can’t wait!

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