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 Promoting gay and lesbian films |
219-401 Richmond Street West Toronto, ON M5V 3A8 Canada +1 416 977 6847 http://www.insideout.on.ca/ |
What started as a community-based event, meant to highlight local gay and lesbian film-making, has developed into one of the city's hottest tickets, with some 22,000 avid film goers taking part in the event. The festival features top-notch movie makers not only from across Canada but from all over the world - with more than 300 works from 30 countries. Accompanying events include the near legendary Grease Sing-a-Long. Screenings take place at the Cumberland cinemas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luke Hollins  |
 Photo: Renee Navarro |
 Cool jazz, hot fun |
1976 A Queen Street East (office) (Festival takes place at Kew Gardens) Toronto, ON M4L 1G8 Canada +1 416 698 2152 http://www.beachesjazz.com/ |
This annual jazz festival provides music lovers with an opportunity to hear popular Canadian and international performers. Groups perform in various venues along Queen Street East, from Woodbine to Neville Park in the Beaches area. The restaurants and cafes do double duty during the four night festival, while Kew Gardens hosts musical entertainment on the Saturday and Sunday afternoons. With an estimated 650,000 scheduled to drop by, many of the shops take advantage of the increased traffic by displaying their wares on the sidewalk. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Indigo |
 Photo: Alex Indigo |
 Photo: Colleen & Jijesh Dev |
 Photo: Chi Chau |
 Photo: Donna Cymek |
 Photo: Yianni Tong |
 Photo: Scott Rogers |
 Photo: Deanna Vout |
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A Taste of the Bigs! |
Rogers Centre 1 Blue Jays Way Toronto, ON M5V1J1 Canada http://www.bigleaguetours.com |
The crack of the bat never sounded so good. If you're an avid baseball fan who's ever dreamed of visiting that historic stadium, or desired to watch that favorite childhood team you never got to see, Big League Tours will set you up with an exclusive baseball package that not only gets you a ticket to the ballgame, but also offers one-of-a-kind baseball opportunities. When you go on a Big League Tour, you might find yourself dining with a Hall of Famer or taking batting practice with an All-Star. With tours available in all 30 stadiums, you can customize your own memorable trip, or join a group on one of Big League Tours regional excursions. Whether your plan is to bond with the family at the ballpark or to spend a weekend with the guys, this unique tour company will provide an unforgettable experience that gets you up-close and personal with the Big Leagues. These tours are available during the regular baseball season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Brazilians and Brazil lovers unite! |
Toronto Centre Island Toronto, ON M5J 2V3 Canada +1 416 299 5932 (Organizers) http://www.itabrasentertainmen... |
You don't need to know how to locate Brazil on a map to enjoy the passion of the county's dance and music. Each year, this festival heats up Toronto with Brazilian fever. The mood is ecstatic, and the city seems to move to the beats of the samba. Organized by Itabras Entertainment Productions, Brazilfest hopes to promote Brazilian culture in Canada, and make Brazilians based in Toronto feel at home. Join the carnival and who knows? You might even learn a few Latino dance moves! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Celebrate North America's Aboriginal Cultures |
1 Blue Jays Way (SkyDome) Toronto, ON M5V 1J3 Canada +1 519 751 0040 http://www.canab.com/ |
Touted as Canada's largest Aboriginal festival, this three-day extravaganza offers the chance to learn about North America's Aboriginal peoples in a fun atmosphere. Apart from viewing more than 1,000 dancers in the colorful Pow Wow ceremony at Rogers Centre, you can wander the market area and shop for beautiful arts and crafts, try authentic traditional foods, or sit in on one of 30 teaching stations and learn about Aboriginal heritage on this continent. There's even a Music Awards celebration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jenn Wilson |
 Photo: Jenn Wilson |
 Photo: Pooyan Tabatabaei |
 Huge New Car Exhibition |
255 Front Street W (at John Street) Toronto, ON M5V 3L9 Canada +1 905 940 2800 http://www.autoshow.ca/ |
What started out as a modest display of new cars in 1974 (seen by 80,000) has expanded to a 800,000 square foot exposition that draws over 250,000 visitors over 10 days in late February. Held in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, close to the CN Tower and Union Station, the show features more than 150 exhibitors. Now offering the Total Automotive Experience, the show helps visualize the dream everyone has of shopping for and buying a new car. Admission: CAD20 Adult; CAD7 Child 7-12 with adult; free for 6 and under with adult. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian McKechnie (bamcat.com) |
 Photo: Brian McKechnie (bamcat.com) |
 Photo: Trevor Smiley |
 Photo: Trevor Smiley |
 Photo: Chris MacDonald |
 Photo: joe sacco |
 Photo: Adam |
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Canada's Summertime Party |
Lakeshore Blvd & Dufferin St (Exhibition Place) Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 393 6300 http://www.theex.com/ |
What began as an agricultural fair in 1878 has grown into Canada's largest annual summertime party. Known for the Midway rides, games and carnival-like festivities, the grounds are also home to an annual automotive show, a casino, a food building, Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, the Medieval Times Dinner Theatre and the Grandstand, a music amphitheatre that has been rocked by the Rolling Stones and lampooned by a wartime Bob Hope. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hobvias sudoneighm |
 Photo: Jeff |
 Photo: Paul Senkowski |
 Photo: dnhockey22 |
 Photo: rainbow62 |
 Photo: peromyscus |
 Photo: Lu Luo |
 Photo: ilker kavas |
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World's Largest Caribbean Fest |
Olympic Island Ferry Docks at Bay Street and Queen's Quay Toronto, ON M5J 1A1 Canada +1 647 777 1018 http://www.caribana.com/ |
Toronto is home to the largest Caribbean population in Canada; this festival, celebrates the culture with a calypso competition, the choosing of a king and queen, a wild costume parade, music, food, art and dance. The festival starts at Nathan Phillips Square, while the King and Queen Extravaganza goes on at Lamport Stadium; other events are held at Exhibition Place and Olympic Island. The street party is free, but evening dances or events vary so check a program guide for more information. See website for complete yearly particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sai Sivanesan |
 Photo: jon144k.com a.k.a. jonpgh |
 Photo: Lou King Corciega |
 Photo: Welcome to Infinite Pictures |
 Photo: theshutterbug |
 Photo: Time4SumAksion |
 Photo: paul |
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Holiday Season in Lights |
100 Queen Street Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Canada +1 416 338 0338 http://www.toronto.ca/special_... |
Thousands descend upon Nathan Phillips Square every year to kick off the holiday season in style. A giant Christmas tree with over 100,000 twinkling lights greets spectators as it is officially lit on this evening. Canadian ice skating Olympians participate in the two, twenty-minute ice skating performances in the Nathan Phillips Square ice rink, and some of the city's best musical performers fill the stage. Public skating to live music is offered nightly. Bundle up to dance or skate under the stars. This is a free event offered every year by the city. Opening ceremony starts at 7p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Vetterli |
 Photo: John Vetterli |
 Photo: igork17 |
 Photo: Alex Russel |
 Photo: Masahiro Kuwabata |
 Photo: Catherine Jordan |
 Photo: Magnum_Dynalab |
 Photo: Martin Schlegel |
 Photo: Anand P |
 Photo: Leia |
 Photo: Timothy Ng |
 Photo: alissaalexandrovna |
 Photo: Andy Schmidt |
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Toronto's sensational street party |
Various venues Toronto, ON M4W 1A3 Canada http://www.toronto.ca/special_... |
In 1998, when city Mayor Mel Lastman amalgamated several cities into what is now called the Greater Toronto Area, he created the Celebrate Toronto Street Festival to bring everyone in the area together in a spirit of festive civic pride. Jugglers and street performers entertain on street corners and restaurants and shops offer all types of enticements. The free event kicks off with a showcase concert at the Eglington and Yonge site on Friday night and continues until Sunday at five festival sites along Yonge Street: at Dundas to the south and north to Bloor, St Clair, Eglinton and Lawrence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tyson Williams |
 Photo: Eva |
 Photo: Daniel Kilpatrick |
 Photo: Eva |
 Photo: Tyson Williams |
 Photo: Daryl David |
 Photo: OldTownGuy |
 Photo: Melissa Goldstein |
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Chinese cultural festival |
100 Princes' Boulevard Better Living Centre Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 483 8218 http://www.torontocelebrates.com/ |
Take part in this vibrant and festive annual celebration of the Chinese New Year and enjoy an authentic piece of Asian culture and heritage. Held in the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, it is the largest Chinese New Year celebration in the country. See traditional dancers, acrobats, pop stars, lion dances and kung fu shows while you sample Chinese delicacies and shop for unique gifts and treats. Admission: CAD38-188. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Lawrence Murphy |
 Photo: Gary Lawrence Murphy |
 Photo: Valerie Lita |
 Photo: Yabin Ge |
 Photo: Shane Duan |
 Photo: Ken C. Tang |
 Photo: Eric Lo |
 New and vintage treasures |
100 Princes' Boulevard Automotive Building Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 516 9859 http://www.theclothingshow.com |
Everything from fabulous vintage clothing, costume jewellery and blankets to antique lace and shoes can all be found under one roof at Toronto's Clothing Show. Held three times a year, over 250 vendors congregate to offer savvy shoppers unique pieces, new trend-setting clothes and relics from the last century. Departments include boutique, street wear, vintage, retro, accessories and more. From fashionistas to extreme sports enthusiasts, there is something for everyone. Admission: USD8-10. Held at Exhibition Place. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lia Carrari |
 Photo: C Lapid |
 Photo: Amanda |
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Hall at University of Toronto |
31 King's College Circle Toronto, ON M5S1A1 Canada +1 416 978 2100 http://www.arts.utoronto.ca/Ve... |
Every fall and spring, thousands of students of the University of Toronto gather here for their graduating ceremony. This 1,700-seat domed hall is also used as a lecture hall for university courses, concerts, guest lectures, readings, ceremonies and rallies. Convocation Hall, or 'Con Hall' is located on the University of Toronto's St. George campus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mitchell Campbell |
 Photo: John Maynard |
 Photo: Mitchell Campbell |
 Photo: Jason Rowe |
 Photo: frank saptel |
 Photo: Flo's Diner |
 Photo: not an artist |
 Photo: Robert Mesina |
 Photo: Naseem Hrab |
 Photo: Michael Mandarano |
 Photo: Andrew D. Gazaneo |
 Photo: Steve Chou |
 Photo: Torry Hyatt |
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Ice sculpting escapades |
100 Queen St West Nathan Phillips Square Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Canada +1 416 395 0490 http://www.toronto.ca/special_... |
Here's a chance to see some of the province's best ice-carvers turn Nathan Phillips Square into an icy wonderland. Up to twenty carving teams compete in this two-day frosty frenzy, sculpting marvelous works out of gargantuan ice blocks. There is a yearly theme—last year it was Middle Earth from Tolkien's vivid imagination. This year's theme has yet to be announced. Everyone is encouraged to vote for their favourite sculpture via ballot, and the winner is announced at the Awards Ceremony at the end of the event. The event is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jessica Leung |
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All the world's a stage |
26 Berkeley St (At Front) Toronto, ON M5A 2W3 Canada +1 416 368 3110; +1 416 367 8243 http://www.canstage.com/ |
What the Fringe Festival has done for street theatre, this has done for Shakespeare in the Park. Located in High Park, this summer festival treats drama enthusiasts to remarkable acts of Canadian theatre. 2002 saw the festival reprise the original performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." A mainstay for the last two decades, the event, put on by the Canadian Stage Company, has attracted a million people for the excitement of live theatre in a magical outdoor setting. Admission is pay-what-you-can, with a suggested donation of CAD10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marion |
 Photo: Natasha C Dunn |
 Photo: cellular techno |
 Photo: Manisha Schifellite |
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Earth Week organizers |
1873 Bloor Street West (High Park) Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Canada +1 416 599 1991 http://www.earthday.ca/ |
As Toronto's umbrella group for what is billed as the largest environmental festival in the world, this organization is responsible for coordinating the hundreds of events and projects around the city to celebrate Earth Day. In fact, the event has become so large that it now runs over a period of two weeks in April. Among the events normally scheduled are Enviro Fest, a tree-planting festival, the Back to the Dirt Benefit Concert and Earth Day festivities in High Park. Consult the website for detailed information about upcoming festivities; most events are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mjw2 |
 All you wanted to know |
100 Princes' Blvd (National Trade Centre) Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 263 3025 http://www.everythingtodowiths... |
This four-day event descends upon Toronto just in time for Halloween. Visitors can attend fashion shows, product demonstrations, seminars, educational workshops and partake in a celebrity autograph signing session. The show's organizers see it as a chance for retailers to appeal to a mainstream, upscale market on the topics of romance and self-improvement. Everything from novelty clothing, hot tubs, books, videos and leather goods are sold, demonstrated or discussed at this unique show. Who said Canadians weren't a sexy lot? Admission: CAD20; visitors must be 19 or older to attend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: clint mcmanaman |
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Red-Hot Fun |
235 Queens Quay W Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 Canada +1 416 973 4000 http://www.harbourfrontcentre.... |
Part of the Rhythms of the World series, this savoury festival, sponsored by the palate-cooling Mexican beer Sol, is one event that heats up the summer at Toronto's Harbourfront Centre. Located in the waterfront district of the city, at Queens Quay and York, this interlude pays tribute to the tangy sensations of the Indo-Caribbean and South Asian cuisines. Five-star celebrity chefs from some of the finest restaurants show off their fusion recipes and edible delights, while the other senses stir with island rhythms of the 'hot and spicy' nations. The free admission includes musical concerts featuring Canadian and international artists, an Iron Chef competition, films and other activities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dalton Picardo |
 Photo: Dalton Picardo |
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Media arts festival |
2 Sussex Avenue (Innis Town Hall) Toronto, ON M5S 1J5 Canada +1 416 971 8405 http://www.imagesfestival.com/ |
For ten days every April this festival, billed as the city's most comprehensive media arts event, offers everything from film screenings and symposia to guest lectures relating to modern-day image-making around the world. The festival has been offering audiences the chance to see a wide variety of video and film from international artists since 1988, and in 1996 decided to provide off-site installations as well. Several prizes are awarded every year to those filmmakers whose stories are deemed exceptional in their category. Tickets are CAD7 per show, or CAD5 for members and students. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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State of the art home design |
717 Church Street National Trade Centre, Exhibition Place Toronto, ON M4W 2M4 Canada +1 416 599 3222 http://www.interiordesignshow.... |
If you have a fetish for all things design related, you may want to check out this massive annual interior design show that highlights the latest and hottest in home decor, designers, design products and services. Explore sumptous, cutting edge international design from the best in floor shows, book signings, parties, speakers, exhibitions and ask-a-designer sessions. The operative word here is luxury. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tran P |
 Photo: Raj Tanikella |
 Photo: hubert hsu |
 Photo: William Tully |
 Photo: frenchtouchdesign |
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Mingle with Literary Elite |
235 Queens Quay W (At Simcoe) Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 Canada +1 416 973 3000 http://www.readings.org |
Hailed as the largest literary event on the planet, this festival has brought together world-renowned novelists, poets, biographers and playwrights from over 20 countries. More than 100 events take place over the fortnight festival. The event takes place at Harbourfront Centre, in the York Quay Centre. Those anxious to meet their favourite authors can usually get close enough to have a word with literary celebs and get them to sign their books of choice. See website for yearly details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Spoken Word |
235 Queens Quay W (near Simcoe) Toronto, ON M5V 2Z3 Canada +1 416 973 3000 (Information) / +1 416 973 4000 (Tickets) http://www.readings.org/ |
Held at the York Quay Centre (at Queens Quay and Simcoe), this event gives literary fans a chance to meet some of the best in the field. Since 1974, the readings series has been a forum for authors and the public to experience soon-to-be classics first hand. From the stage in the Brigantine Room, famed writers like Pulitzer Prize winners Arthur Miller and E. Annie Proulx have held audiences captive with their stories. There are also book sales and author signings as part of the festivities. Readings take place on a weekly basis, all year long (with a brief summer hiatus). See website for complete calendar of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Market festival |
67 Kensington Avenue (at Dundas Street West) Toronto, ON M5T 2K2 Canada +1 905 593 0871 |
On any given day, Kensington Market is a city favorite for fresh fruits and vegetables, but come December and January, it transforms into a celebration of lights and splendor with an annual parade rejoicing Christmas and Hanukkah. While this is the primary year-end festivity for this area, Kensington Market plays year-round host to one of Canada's largest artistic communities. From painters, and poets to artists, these colourful characters lend a vibrant quality to the area. This is a free event. Call ahead for this year's exact date and times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Beth Hamill |
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Arts extravaganza |
Harbourfront Centre (venue) 235, Queens Quay West Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 Canada +1 416 973 4000 http://www.harbourfrontcentre.... |
An eight day showcase running during the last week of every May, this children's festival of the arts brings together performers, artists and musicians from around the world. Taking place at the Harbourfront Center, it features Canadian and international theater troupes presenting award winning drama for both children and the young at heart. A special feature is the Francophone Day event, during which all performances and activities are conducted in French. Admission: CAD12.50 (one day wristband); CAD44 (four pack wristband). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A racing extravaganza |
175 Bloor Street East North Tower, 2nd Floor Toronto, ON M4W 3R8 Canada +1 416 922 7477 http://www.grandprixtoronto.com/ |
More than just a car race, this three-day extravaganza includes exhibitions, entertainment, and, of course, the race itself. Off-track events feature race displays, pit stop challenges and interactive games at Motorfest, taking place in the Direct Energy Centre. More than 140 drivers jockey for position during two days of qualifying. The qualifiers then meet for the main event and roar through the city's streets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gbalogh |
 Photo: David Kinzel |
 Photo: gbalogh |
 Photo: Jean-Luc David |
 Photo: David Kinzel |
 Photo: Jean-Luc David |
 Photo: Brandon B. Phillips |
 Photo: Brad Clarke |
 Photo: speedyk1 |
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Summer's highly anticipated event |
Exhibition Place 175 Bloor St. East North Tower Toronto, ON M4W 3R8 Canada +1 416 872 4639 http://www.molsonindy.com |
This is one of the city's most highly anticipated summer events. One weekend in the summer, the streets of downtown Vancouver are transformed into a world-class racing circuit. For three days, drivers compete for the Indy Car chequered flag at speeds exceeding 300 kilometres per hour. More than 150,000 people attend the seat-rattling event each year. Be sure to bring your earplugs, though, because the race can be heard for miles around. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nuno Ferreira |
 Photo: Lisa McMillan |
 Photo: Beckman |
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Bountiful bikes |
89 Chestnut Street (Automotive Building at the CNE) Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 705 778 2275 / +1 800 461 6568 http://www.nationalmotorcycles... |
If you want to buy or sell a motorbike, or merely want to ogle new and vintage bikes, this show held every spring at the Better Living Centre in Exhibition Place will get your motor running. Over 100 vendors display parts, accessories, and bikes in more than 50,000 square feet. Awards are given in various categories, but only one will drive away with Best Bike in Show, which lands the winner CAD1,000. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Over 650 Canadian artisans |
Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place 100 Princes' Blvd Toronto, ON M4Y 1A1 Canada +1 416 960 3680 http://www.oneofakindshow.com/ |
Running twice a year, the spring show in March and the Christmas show in late November/early December at the Direct Energy Centre, the One of a Kind Show features the works of more than 750 Canadian artisans. Crafts, fashion and fine art sales are featured, complemented by exhibits, competitions and gallery displays. The Christmas show, in particular, attracts those looking for unique holiday gifts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Commodore Gandalf Cunningham |
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Come Alive |
Wellesley Street East, Suite 501 - 65 (Pride Toronto Office) Toronto, ON M4Y 1G7 Canada +1 416 927 7433 http://www.pridetoronto.com/ |
This festival held each year in the last week of June, since the 1980s, celebrates gay and lesbian freedom. The festival includes several festivities, hundreds of entertainers on stage, a market place, the Family Pride, the Dyke March, and the famous Pride Parade. True to its theme of inclusiveness for all, the festival organizers provide for audio cassettes, Braille maps and guides, scooter and wheelchair accessible washrooms, attendants and wheelchairs. People have the option of voicing their opinion at the community fair where non-government groups come together. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tyson Williams |
 Photo: Tyson Williams |
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Morrisson was here. And so were the cats and the horses! |
Exhibition Place 100 Princes' Boulevard Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 263 3000 / +1 416 263 3001 http://www.ricohcoliseum.com/i... |
Located in downtown Toronto, this is the city's newest sports and entertainment complex. It has played host to a bouquet of entertaining events, such as, a Horse Show, Cat Show, Butter Sculptures, Miss CNE Pageant, and Volkswagen's first Canadian showing in 1952 were all held at this massive venue. In the 1960s and 1970s, The Doors, The Who, Genesis, and Jimmy Hendrix played during the off-season to a huge crowd. Don't worry about parking space, as there are over 7,000 parking spots on-site. Make sure you remember where you've parked! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David G Kelly |
 Photo: pukka |
 Photo: Catacami |
 Photo: Aaron Haberman |
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World's largest fair |
100 Princes' Boulevard (Strachan Ave and Lakeshore Road) Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 416 263 3400 http://www.royalfair.org/ |
This fair is perhaps the last vestige of the rural agricultural community that Toronto once was. For 10 days in early November, Exhibition Place and the Direct Energy Centre become a huge fairground, hosting a series of competitions in agriculture, horticulture and equestrian activities. It's also the largest indoor fair of its kind in the world. Where else in a city of 4.5 million will you get a chance to see 3,000 head of cattle, 500 sheep, 300 pigs and 1,600 birds? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Drew Leavy |
 Photo: Andreas Duess |
 Photo: RichardBH |
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Calling all Santa fans |
Bloor & Christie Sts (starting point) Front & Church Sts (ending point) Toronto, ON M5S 1M4 Canada +1 416 964 6444 x445 / +1 416 964 6444 x462 http://www.thesantaclausparade... |
Every November, both the young and the young at heart line up along the Santa Claus Parade route to marvel at the cheerful Christmas floats, clowns and entertainers. The festivities begin near the Christie subway stop on Bloor Street West and wind down University to Queen Street, ending at Front Street East. The parade is broadcast with live commentary and over 100 playful clowns, who are actually corporate executive event sponsors, line up in the chilly winter air to support the parade. There is no fee to attend this fun-filled, magical event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine Urias |
 Photo: Christine Urias |
 Photo: Toronto Mike |
 Photo: Toronto Mike |
 Photo: David Schwindt |
 Photo: Sid |
 Photo: Michael Perry |
 Photo: Richard Ebbs |
 Photo: Dnomar |
 Photo: rude_vermin |
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Food & Wine Extravaganza |
Various Venues Toronto, ON Canada +1 416 928 3553 x27 http://www.santewinefestival.net |
In association with the Wine Council of Ontario and the Ontario Importers of Wine, Spirits and Beer Association, the Bloor-Yorkville BIA holds this annual wine tasting and auction at the beginning of May. Held in various venues including the Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, the Four Seasons Hotel and Gardiner Museum, the festival features an opening night black-tie gala with proceeds going to various artistic organizations. Yorkville businesses offer free tastings throughout the weekend. See their website for yearly details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everyday People |
556 Kingston Road Toronto, ON M4E 1P9 Canada +1 416 686 3179 http://www.slackersfilmfest.com/ |
This festival is dedicated to the films about everyday people. They celebrate art about average lives, "because the interesting stuff happens while the others are catching the bad guys or running from serial killers." The movies have to be independent and narrative, but they can be comedy, drama, documentary, animated, or just dazed and confused. Check the website for schedules and more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Movies for kids |
Famous Players Canada Square Toronto, ON M4S 2C6 Canada http://www.bell.ca/filmfest/ |
Sponsored by the people behind the Toronto International Film Festival, this event provides the same high calibre of contemporary Canadian and international films, except they're aimed at kids between 4-12. Taking place every April, the festival offers two sets of films: one on weekdays for educators, and the other on weekends for the general public. All screenings are at the Famous Players Canada Square cinemas. Ticket prices for adults cost CAD75 and for children, CAD65. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sampling the goods |
411 Danforth Avenue (Broadview east to Jones) Toronto, ON M4K 1P1 Canada +1 416 469 5634 http://www.TasteOfTheDanforth.... |
The Danforth is best known for its many Greek restaurants and shops. During this festival, you can sample goods from many eateries for a mere CAD1-CAD3. Other highlights include late night shopping, beer and ouzo gardens, live entertainment and amusement rides for the kids. The busy avenue is closed to traffic between Broadview and Jones during the festival as more than 800,000 take to the streets, so taking the subway is the only sane way to go. (Ochlophobics will want to avoid weekend evenings, when making any forward progress becomes a Herculean feat.) This is a free event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: topquark22 |
 Photo: Scott Tromley |
 Photo: Jeff Kesner |
 Photo: ~EvidencE~ |
 Photo: David Hainsworth |
 Photo: Aseem Johri |
 Photo: Adrien |
 Photo: Vivian L. |
 Photo: Jan Schwarz |
 Photo: M Brown-Bury |
 Photo: Dean Brown |
 Photo: Gillian daSilva |
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Halloween Preparation |
3219 Yonge Street Suite 346 Toronto, ON M4N 3S1 Canada +1 416 903 6050 http://www.torontoafterdark.com/ |
Held the week before Halloween, the Toronto After Dark Film Festival holds many of its events at Bloor Cinema (The), although locations do vary. The films are a mix of thriller, new horror, fantasy, and sci-fi and come from around the world. Although there is an international feel, the festival aims to encourage Canadian talent. Besides films, there are parties to attend and even a "zombie walk" where participants dress like zombies and stagger down the street, quite a sight to behold. Prices and locations vary, so see website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wheels in Motion |
100 Queen Street W (Nathan Phillips Square) Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Canada +1 416 392 7592 http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ |
Promoting healthy living by encouraging people to cycle within the city as an alternate mode of transportation is the focus of the Toronto Bike Week festival. Festivities include a free pancake breakfast at Nathan Phillips Square for those riding their bikes to work, group rides with the Toronto Police Bike Patrol and a children's bicycle rodeo. The Stephen's Courier Classic urban bike race is the final highlight, where bike messengers go head-to-head with firefighters, ambulance workers and professional cyclists to win the race and raise money for charity. Check the site or call for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Reis |
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Major league all the way |
1 Blue Jays Way (At Lakeshore) Toronto, ON M5V 1J1 Canada +1 416 341 1000 / +1 416 341 1234 (Tickets) http://www.bluejays.ca/ |
April 7, 1977 is the day Major League Baseball came to Toronto. Although Canada is known mostly as a nation of hockey fans, the Blue Jays consistently set attendance records and reached the pinnacle of baseball success with a World Series Championships in 1992. They then repeated that feat the next year with an unforgettable home run off the bat of long time Blue Jay Joe Carter. Tickets are available at SkyDome April through October, just minutes from Union Station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joel Dinda |
 Photo: Joel Dinda |
 Photo: Sylvia Lin McFadden |
 Photo: Nicolas Coulet |
 Photo: jmlee22 |
 Photo: Marko Saari |
 Photo: Kevin Purcocks |
 Photo: Brian Kravets |
 Photo: RooKnits |
 Photo: Dawn Kelly |
 Photo: Steve Palmer |
 Photo: Bill Roehl |
 Photo: Bill Barr |
 Photo: William Yum |
 Photo: Carla Blank |
 Photo: Brian Hughes |
 Photo: Aaron Reiff-Zall |
 Photo: Kelly Royle |
 Photo: David Alderson |
 Photo: sarah_mannion_busch |
 Photo: Erik Harmon |
 Photo: Steven L. |
 Photo: james_mccallum95 |
 Photo: Dustin Hall |
 Photo: Ian Glover |
 Photo: angrymouse |
 Photo: Matt Nazarenko |
 Photo: Ben The Wanderer |
 Photo: Ryan Peers |
 Photo: Harvy Jay Caleon |
 Photo: bostonterrier20 |
 Photo: Deborah Reardon |
 Photo: David Griebeling |
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Listening can be fun too! |
43 Queen's Park Crescent East The Storytellers School of Toronto (Organisers) Toronto, ON M5S 2C3 Canada +1 416 656 2445 http://festival.storytellingto... |
This storytelling festival, held in various venues across the city, is a test and a reward for good listening skills. Museums, schools and theatres play host as writers entertain an audience comprising both young and old. The stories range from funny and scary to historical. Come by to hear old and new tales—the kids will enjoy them too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Alternative Performances |
344 Bloor Street West, Suite 507 Toronto, ON M5S 3A7 Canada +1 416 966 1062 http://www.fringetoronto.com/ |
The brainchild of a group of artists with a passion for creating performance opportunities for emerging talent, Toronto's Street Theatre Festival has thrived for more than 12 years. While it has grown to where 100 local and international theatre companies perform each year, the grass root principles remain intact: the selection process is by lottery and not by jury. Performances take place in eight main venues, all conveniently located in the Annex neighbourhood. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Garry T. |
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A star-studded affair |
55 Bloor Street West (Main Floor, North Entrance) Manulife Centre (Year-round Box Office) Toronto, ON M5H 3R3 Canada +1 416 968 3456 (Tickets) http://www.e.bell.ca/filmfest |
What began in 1976 as a local Festival of Festivals has now become an internationally renowned attraction, bringing stars from every corner of the globe to the streets of downtown Toronto. Every year hundreds of new films are presented and masses turn out for film viewing and star gazing. Depending on what you want to see, attending screenings can either be a one-in-a-million chance or a piece of cake: festival packages sell out weeks in advance, but single tickets are sometimes available at individual theatre box offices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Seán Baker |
 Photo: Megan Ward |
 Photo: BillyWarhol |
 Photo: Ryan Coleman |
 Photo: Michael Colford |
 Photo: Michael Douglas |
 Photo: Amanda Scott |
 Photo: Jacob Stickann |
 Photo: Tom Ipri |
 Photo: MKtetrabert |
 Photo: mateyouvechanged |
 Photo: mahaz |
 Photo: Nancy E. Campbell |
 Photo: Katherine Zion |
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Photography festival |
258 Wallace Avenue, Suite 204 Toronto, ON M6P 3M9 Canada +1 416 539 9595 http://www.contactphoto.com |
A month long celebration of the photographic arts, this festival features some of the top photographers of the modern era in venues that are accessible to the general public. Artists include such well known names as Arbus, Abbott and Cartier Bresson, with representative work from a variety of private collections. As well, up and comers have the opportunity to show their stuff at several venues around town, including various spaces at Harbourfront Center and the Ryerson Gallery. Consult the website for a complete program of events and venues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: IT Ceremony |
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Wildlife & Outdoor Sports |
100 Princess Boulevard (National Trade Centre) Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 Canada +1 905 361 2677 / 1888 695 2677 (Toll Free) http://www.sportsmensshows.com/ |
Canada's largest outdoors show is held every March at the Direct Energy Centre, within Exhibition Place on Toronto's waterfront. Numerous activities of interest to the wildlife enthusiast abound and there is something for anyone who looks to nature for adventure. Commercial dealers and other corporate vendors represent such outdoor activities as canoing, fishing, rock climbing, hunting, camping, all-terrain vehicles, boating, hiking and kayaking. Admission: Adults CAD16, Seniors/Children (6-15) CAD9, Children (under 6) Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wintry celebration |
100 Queen Street West Mel Lastman Square & Nathan Phillips Square Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Canada +1 416 395 0490 http://www.toronto.ca/special_... |
There's nothing like three days of rollicking free concerts, skating shows, ice sculptures and circus performances to rouse you out of the clutches of the winter blahs. This free annual city festival draws thousands of people to various downtown venues to set fire to the cold days of February. Set up as the south and north poles, each venue hosts the celebratory spectacles that are perfect for all ages. Street theatre and food vendors spice up the surrounding areas while the free entertainment livens the weekend up. Admission is free to all events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hic, hic, hooray! |
100 Garrison Road Historic Fort York Toronto, ON M5V 3K9 Canada +1 866 943 8849 (Toll Free) /+1 416 640 0966 http://www.beerfestival.ca/ |
Held each August in downtown Toronto at the Historic Fort York, this festival helps revelers live it up quite a bit. Over 200 brands of beer are available for purchase, while live music, hot food and the Napoleon Grilling Tent add to the mood. The "King Street Crawl" is one of the biggest draws, where you get to sample free beer and enter a contest to win rock concert tickets. You need to be 19 years or older to buy a ticket for the festival and its satellite events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sheryl Kirby |
 Photo: David McDonald |