Yorkville Exotic Car Show: The 13th annual crowd pleasing open air show returns on Father’s Day, June 18th from 12 noon to 5 pm with a street lined red carpet event for every super car fan. Take Dad to check out classic and exotics from the most popular car brands including Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, Aston Martin,  and more. Free admission to the show. Make a day of it and book your brunch on a patio like d|bar, One Restaurant, Sofia, Eataly, or The Oxley.

Honda Indy: July 14 to 16. Exhibition Place. For car enthusiasts, this thrilling weekend of world class racing that offers nonstop fun for the entire family. A great way to enhance the visit to the track is to grab a Paddock Pass that allows visitors to access “the locker room of racing”. Get up close to cars, and sometimes even the drivers. Honda Fan Friday has free admission to the grounds courtesy of Ontario Honda Dealers.

TD Toronto Jazz Festival: June 23 to July 2. Various locations across the city. Since 1987, the Toronto Downtown Jazz Society has offered us great opportunities to enjoy one of the most loved musical genres. Now attracting over 500,000 people of all ages it continues to attract jazz lovers to it’s many indoor and outdoor venues. Iconic musicians are presented as well as new discoveries. Artists including George Benson, Herbie Hancock, Cimafunk are slated to perform as well as locals Julie Black, Big Smoke Black, Ashanti and many more. The schedule includes both free and ticketed events to attend. Full schedule can be found here.

Beyond Concrete Summer program at The Bentway: officially launching on May 26 with a fun opening night party, the public space unveiled it’s summer programming with lots to see including art installations by the first North American commission by Filipino artist Leeroy New; the North American premiere of Brazilian choreographer Clarice Lima; and the return of Communal Table (al fresco dining experience). Events, performances, workshops, tours and more are planned right through to September 24. More info here.

Wolfgang Tillmans: To Look Without Fear: Art Gallery of Ontario. Ongoing until October 1. This major retrospective of Tillmans work takes over the entire fifth floor of the AGO. Known for his relentless push to find ways to make new pictures in our image-saturated world, Tillmans has, throughout his career, explored, integrated, and presented photography in many genres and techniques. The artist was also recently named in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential. More information here.

Toronto’s Festival of Beer: July 28 – 30. Bandshell Park, Exhibition Place. Summer is season of musical festivals and this one offers live music, beer, food, and plenty of water for the 19+ set. Soak up the summer heat with this year’s line up including performances by T-Pain featuring Coffee, Ice Cube featuring Big Boi, and Third Eye Blind with Ruby Waters.

Symphony in the Gardens: Performances en plein air at Casa Loma:
Following the continued success of the Twilight Symphony in the Stables program, Casa Loma applauds the return of Maestro Paolo Busato and his Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra — with special guest vocalists and players — to the Glass Pavilion and the Gardens for performances on Monday evenings beginning June 5th. The program line-up themes include June 5th is Crooning Classics, June 12th is Classical, June 19th is Solid Gold, June 26th is Movie Night, July 3rd is The Virtuosi, July 10th is Psychedelic Monday, July 17th is Broadway Musicals, July 24th is Movie Night, July 31st is Salsa to Samba, August 7th is Big Band (a la Casa Loma Orchestra), August 14th is A Love Song to Italy, August 21st is Abba, August 28th is From Pavarotti to Callas, September 4 is Disney/Dreamworks Night. Also coming up is the ever popular Soul in the City summer concert series. Full program details and tickets here.

Stranger Things Experience: 8 Unwin Drive, Port Lands. For fans of the hit Netflix Series comes this fully immersive experience. Visitors are first guided through the Hawkins Sleep Lab where a series of challenges and tests will be done (don’t worry, it’s not real). You’ll quickly discover your power and will be called upon to help our friends take on demogorgans and demodogs. It’s a heart-pumping adrenaline rush but don’t worry, once you’ve returned from the Upside Down, there is food ($)and photo opps to be had all in the show’s 80s theme. Tickets here.

Toronto’s Fusion Food Tour: since 2016 local tour guides with Chopsticks + Forks have offered their award-winning Kensington Market International Food Tour. Now they’ve added a new tour that will feed the bellies and curiosity of locals and tourists alike! Toronto’s Fusion Food Tour is a taste of what happens when creative foodies around the world call Toronto home. From Rasta Pasta’s Jamaican/Italian fusion gnocchi to Japanese poutine. This is not your usual walking food tour. By the way, this is a fun family and friends event that can also be booked as a private group tour. More info dates/tickets can be found here.

Dragon Ball Symphonic Adventure Tour: June 9 & 10. Meridian Hall. Fans of the iconic Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z television series this live performance is for you! This Canadian tour will feature the original singer of the Dragon Ball series himself, Hiroki Takahashi who will be performing many of the classic from the series, including Cha-La Head-Cha-La, We Gotta Power, Makafushigi Adventure, and more. Attendees will experience the music of both the original and iconic Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z television series, powered by a full orchestra, while watching the storylines of both shows unfold on screen in HD with other fans. Akira Toriyama’s work on Dragon Ball became a worldwide phenomenon, with over 300 million volumes of the comic book sold, currently making it the second-most sold manga in the world. Dragon Ball Z is also a nostalgic experience for many Canadians who grew up watching the show after school on YTV. This will be Toriyama’s first time in Canada.  Tickets and more info found here.

Jurassic World: The Exhibition: located at Mississauga Square One is where you’ll be transported to the film set on one of the most popular dinosaur film franchises. Feel as though you’ve stepped back into the dinosaur age and walk amongst the prehistoric giants. Come face to face with life size Raptors and other famous dinosaur creatures that once roamed the earth. Tickets and info here.

If you’re looking for a new spot to dine with Dad…

CKTL & Co. has opened in the heart of the Financial District. Considered the first Stock Exchange themed bar with a distinct difference. Here, prices fluctuate just like the market. Depending on demand you’ll want to secure your order in a timely manner. Digital ticker tape is what you’ll need to keep an eye on.

Black and Blue is the latest steakhouse to arrive in Toronto. All the fancy cuts of premium beef is here but there are options for the vegans and pescatarians. Located at First Canadian Place.

Laylak Lebanese has taken over the former Rosewater Supper Club space east of Yonge Street. It’s elevated Lebanese dishes offer a fine dining experience.

ALWAYS COOOOOOL SPOTS:

Matty Matheson’s Prime Seafood Palace is a hot spot now especially after recently placing in the top rungs on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list as well as taking the number one spot on Toronto Life Magazine’s Best Restaurant list.

J’s Steak Frites was inspired the the many no-fuss steak bistros in Paris. The only thing on the menu? You guessed it. Steak Frites. The prix fixe dinner includes a housemade salad, steak and all you can eat fries. Dessert options are always worth checking out. Also made in house, the sweets are great for sharing.

One of our favourites is Patois for it’s Jamaican, Asian, and soul food influenced dishes. Jerk Chicken Chow Mein is a crowd pleaser. Brunch is also fab. Not sure what to order? They have a complete meal that has all the house favourites.

Our much loved Chef Nuit Regular has brought a fresh new brunch menu to her restaurant Kiin. The menu at the “Kiin Cafe” includes traditional Thai breakfast and lunch dishes as well as specialty drinks and coffee. Oh, and fresh made to order doughnuts!

Storm Crow Manor is a casual fun multi-level restaurant for go-to weekend brunch and anytime favourites in this historical site. But it’s the decor that is the biggest draw. It’s a sci-fi lovers paradise with set props and recreated pieces from some of the most iconic television shows and movies. Even the stairs leading you down to the washrooms are lined as though you’re walking in Catacombs of Paris.  Be sure to check out the curio room before you leave. Maybe even have Zoltar offer you a fortune.

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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!

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Don’t have a date? How about a stuffed animal as your dinner date? Storm Crow Manor (580 Yonge Street) is offering these life size characters to keep you company during this season of love. Just think dinner with Squirtle and you won’t have to share your dessert. Also, everyone on your IG or TikTok will be super jelly. From February 11 to 14 you can secure your plushy date (rent $5) at this fun restaurant. Just reserve your stuffed toy companion by adding it to your reservation. We won’t judge. We might even see you there.

Love can feel trippy sometimes? We understand. Then you may be interested in checking into the extraterrestrial Love in Another Galaxy Valentine’s Party on February 11 at the Offworld Bar (739 Queen Street West). There is a traffic light theme to let others know your V-Day status. If you’re taken, wear RED! If you’re single, wear GREEN! If you’re ???, wear YELLOW! If you’re single and identify as LGBTQ+, feel free to wear PINK! Or just come dressed the way you want and be ready to mingle with everyone.

Aching Hearts is a music festival for singles this Valentine’s. Held at The Garrison (1196 Dundas Street West) on February 14. Live performances and DJs including COMMUTED, Sufferin Mall, DENT, Annika Lee, Numbers, and Witte Beer.

DUMP HIM is an anti-Valentine’s day comedy show at the Social Capital (SoCap) Theatre (154 Danforth Avenue) for all the singles. Presented by the Whore Store this is a stand up comedy show about heartbreak, rejection, singlehood & everything anti Valentine’s Day. Happening on…February 14.

Someone bugging you? The Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy launched a wildly successful “Name a Roach Valentine’s Day” special where, for a minimum $25 donation you can submit a name in honour of the most pesty person in your life. Unfortunately, the campaign was so popular they had to close it out after hitting $15,000 in support of the Toront’s Zoo’s ongoing conservation and research efforts to save wildlife and wild spaces. But you can still find other ways to honour the day. Check out wildlifeconservancy.ca

The Creative Market Local presents the Stupid Cupid Anti-Valentine’s Market (672 Dupont Street) February 10 to 12. There will be over 40 vendors, photo booths, a S’mores Station, tooth gems and $50 tattoos. Much better than the (oh shit!) last minute corner store flowers and generic chocolate heart boxes.

Needing to rid of some bad energy? Get all you need for a personal smudging at Blackbird Vintage Finds (Distillery District). They carry everything from Palo Santo wood, sage bundles, incense cones and sticks, and copal to help banish all the toxic vibes in your home.

If you think the your pup really is the pawfect date then take the furry friend to Ween & Co’s Puppy Love Dog Friendly Valentine’s Dinner and Social  at the Society Clubhouse (967 College Street) on February 11 . This is a singles or couples night out where you can bring your fur-bestie along. Optional add-on heart shaped pizza dinner (for humans), photo opps, shop, treats and puppaccinos(for the dogs).

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Chotto Matte: Jungle Brunch: (161 Bay Street) If you’re in need of an escape from the winter’s cold winter (did it arrive early this year?) this is where you want to be. Step into the tropical oasis in this Peruvian/Japanese “Nikkei” style restaurant located at Bay and Front. You’ll want to take a deep breath when you see all the lush greens. Saturday’s Jungle Brunch ($49) includes a buffet-style spread of impressive appetizers including ceviche, fresh sashimi and maki rolls, beef tataki from the robata bar, warm miso soup and salads. Then have choose your entree from the menu – the seabass and the chicken are hands-down favourites. Save room for the dessert spread. And feeling festive? Add on the $40 bottomless cocktail selection. Live entertainment will have you conga line down the aisles and forget it’s winter.

Byblos Uptown: (2537 Yonge Street) Another great escape into the warmth as you enter this inviting establishment located up at Yonge and Eglinton. Bright sunny space with tall ceilings gives an airy, yet cozy, feeling. Take a break from the usual omelette brunch and explore all the deliciousness here including the popular Middle Eastern dish Shakshouka – a deeply satisfying breakfast made with poached eggs nestled in a house-made tomato sauce. Another favourite is the Strawberry Qatayef Pancakes with just the right amount of sweetness to brighten up any dreary day. And what would brunch be without the sunny side of a fresh sangria?

Storm Crow Manor: (580 Church Street) dubbed as the “nerdiest” restaurant and bar in Toronto has us geeking out with a great menu and fun atmosphere. Their recent ghastly “headshots” made us look twice! Housed in a Victorian Manor this multi-level establishment has several themed rooms to satisfy any science-fiction fantasy fan. Themed decor includes Mary Shelley/Frankenstein (pay attention to the backlit portraits on the walls), Harry Potter-esque apothecary, Steampunk and more. Every nook and cranny is filled with curious objects with some created as site-specific and other items from actual film /tv production sets. Several hidden private areas include Heaven and Hell include futuristic stained glass windows, and yes, there is room behind the moving bookcase – of course. Take the stairs down to the washrooms in the basement fashioned after the Catacombs in France.  Watch out for the screeching cats. We think the person in charge of decor has the best job in the world. Order up one of their specialty drinks and be prepared for a bit of pomp and circumstance. Brunch here offers a concise menu and portions are generous. Going through the descriptions on the menu is half the fun. Example: CAT. IV AVO-KAIJU TOAST is explained as “Genetically reimagined by the Precursors to help you be the mightiest Kaiju in existence.”

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