If you’re trying to avoid having a boring and dreary winter, you’re in luck! Toronto has no shortage of fun things to do all year round – yes, even in the dead of winter. No matter what your personal definition of fun is, there’s at least one activity on this list for you. From ghost walks to hockey games, Toronto has it all.
Here are some fun things to do this winter in Toronto:
The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Toronto
If you’re a FRIENDS fan and haven’t been to The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Toronto – get moving before it’s too late! Located inside Yorkdale Shopping Centre, The FRIENDS Experience is an interactive installation where visitors can explore set recreations like Joey and Chandler’s apartment, Central Perk, and Monica and Rachel’s kitchen. Plus, there’s even a gift shop where you can pick up your very owned FRIENDS-themed goodies. It officially wraps on January 8, 2023, and you can shop for tickets here.
Royal Ontario Museum – ROM
What’s not fun and exciting about seeing actual dinosaur fossils? That along with the collection of 13 million artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens that the ROM has to offer. Spend a few hours exploring the ROM’s 40 gallery and exhibition spaces to be thoroughly entertained and learn a thing or two. An upcoming exhibition to look forward to is, T.rex: The Ultimate Predator starting March 11, 2023.
Skating
There are a ton of places to go skating within the city – and we’ve rounded up some free outdoor rinks for you to skate at here. Going skating is a great way to get out and get some physical activity in a fun winter-approved way.
The Haunted Walk
This one is for all of you who appreciate the spooky things in life. Toronto is full of awesome ghost stories, haunted locations, and dark history. Check out The Haunted Walk’s variety of ghost tours for an unconventional fun time out in the city.
Art Gallery of Ontario – AGO
Toronto is also home to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), so take advantage of its prime location and plan a visit this winter! The gallery always has tons of fascinating exhibitions, and right now they’re honouring Leonard Cohen, exploring the photographs, artworks, notebooks, videos, and poetry of the legendary Canadian artist. Take a look at AGO’s ticket info here.
Bata Shoe Museum
Okay, maybe traditional museums aren’t your thing, but have you been to a shoe museum? The Bata Shoe Museum, located right here in Toronto is any shoe-lovers dream. It regularly displays over a thousand shoes and related artifacts showcasing over 4500 years of history.
Eataly
For all you foodies out there, specifically the lovers of Italian cuisine, sometimes wandering around Eataly will be time well spent! Eataly is a bustling Italian marketplace with 50,000 square feet overflowing with three restaurants, nine take-away counters, and a cooking school.
Ripley’s Aquarium
People from all over travel to Ripley’s Aquarium to experience the sea life it has to offer! Immerse yourself in a world of 20,000 aquatic animals and completely forget that it’s actually wintering right now. The best part in our opinion has to be the underwater viewing tunnel!
Leafs Game
The ultimate Canadian winter entertainment… hockey. Grab a ticket to a Toronto Maple Leaf game at some point this winter, even if you aren’t a die-hard hockey fan, going out to a game is always a good time!
Allan Gardens
Sometimes we all need a little pick-me-up in the winter. Get out of your home and visit Allan Garden’s indoor conservatory and soak in the colourful, seasonal plants the greenhouses have to offer for a little healthy escapism.
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Free Outdoor Rinks & Skating Trails To Check Out In Toronto
Torontonians, you can now add another skating rink to your winter activities list! A new rink will open this month in an old and familiar spot.
The Harbourfront Centre partnered up with Synerglace to build a temporary rink underneath the concert stage.
The previous Harbourfront Centre rink won’t be open as it’s still dealing with the infrastructure issues that kept it closed last year.
You’ll be able to tie up your laces and hit the ice from November 19 until March 6, 2022.
The new winter spot will have an ice loop that goes through the “south orchard” and connects back to the main rink. You’re sure to have a stunning view the entire time!
If you plan on checking out the area, be sure to adhere to all public health guidelines and all of the rules set by the Centre.
Happy skating!
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Toronto knows a thing or two about activities, especially during the winter months. But after the craziness of the holidays, your wallet could definitely use a break. Luckily, this January, you don’t have to spend a penny to be able to enjoy some amazing activities around the city. We’ve rounded up the very best free events for you to enjoy.
Here are 15 free events to check out this month in Toronto!
Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Grab your skates and head to Nathan Phillips Square where you can enjoy free daily skating as you enjoy the picturesque views of Toronto City Hall. Equipped with change rooms, washrooms, a snack shop, and skate rentals, this skating rink has everything you need for a quintessential winter day.
When: Open daily through March 22
Time: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 100 Queen Street West
Price: Skating is free, skate rentals available on-site
DJ Skate Nights at Natrel Rink
Toronto’s hottest winter skating party is back for another exciting season with another stellar lineup of DJs that will bring the heat to your Saturday nights. Featuring house, R&B, soul, disco, soca, hip hop, dancehall, throwback, drag anthems, and pop, there will be music for every taste, and for every occasion.
When: January 11, 18, 25
Time: 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel Rink
Price: Admission is free
The Bentway Skate Trail: Winter Season
The Bentway below the Gardiner Expressway is worth braving the cold for. Not only is there free ice-skating on the 220-metre, figure-eight skate trail (you may bring your own skates or rent for $10), there’s an on-site winter village that serves hot chocolate, drinks, and boozy beverages for skaters and spectators, while warming stations will help visitors get toasty before getting back on the ice.
When: January 6 through February 7
Time: Weekdays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; weekends, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Boulevard
Price: Skating is free; skate rentals start at $5 for kids or $10 for adults
AGO Free Wednesday Nights
Free admission on Wednesday nights at the AGO has been a longstanding tradition for years and is a great way to get your culture fix. The popular initiative invites Torontonians and visitors the chance to spend the evening at one of the largest and most distinguished art museums in North America and get inspired by the incredible art displays and new and changing exhibits.
When: Every Wednesday night (January 8, 15, 22, 29)
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas Street West
Price: Admission is free
No Pants Subway Ride
The ‘No Pants Subway Ride’ returns to Toronto for another cheeky year. Hosted by the No Pants Society, the annual risqué event will be taking place simultaneously in over 50 cities around the world this month with the hopes of bringing a smile to commuters’ faces. Here in Toronto, the pantless ride will be be followed by a parade from Wellesley Station to a no pants dance party (location to be announced).
When: January 12
Time: 3 pm to 10 pm
Where: The ride begins at the CF Eaton Centre’s Dundas Street entrance
Price: Free to participate, but you’ll have to pay for your TTC ride
Mayor’s Skate Party
Celebrate the new year with Mayor John Tory and City Councillors at Kew Gardens for the annual Mayor’s Skate Party. Come on down to enjoy a fun afternoon that’s filled with music, hot beverages, and of course lots of skating. Even better is that skate rentals are free, too!
When: January 12
Time: 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Where: Kew Gardens
Price: Free
Winter Stations Presents: Loop
Leading up to the return of Toronto’s annual Winter Stations, event organizers are teaming up with the city’s Waterfront BIA to bring more public art to the city during the coldest months of the year. This month, Torontonians can check out ‘Loop’, which is an interactive retro-futuristic machine powered by the public. Visitors can hop on two at a time into one of the six illuminated cylinders and pump a lever to activate the lights and glowing images.
When: January 15 through February 18
Time: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily
Where: York Street Park (York Street and Harbour Street)
Price: Admission is free
Province Apothecary Mini Facials @ Detox Market
If getting your skincare game together was on your list of goals for 2020, then look no further. On January 16, head to the Detox Market flagship for your free Province Apothecary mini-facial that’s followed by relaxing accupressure point stimulation and education about your skin type. There are limited spots available so make sure you RSVP early so you don’t miss out on your best skin ever thanks to this free event.
When: January 16
Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Detox Market Flagship (116 Spadina Ave)
Price: Free
DesignTO
DesignTo returns to Toronto for its 10th installment this month to celebrate Canadian art and design. Over the past decade, DesignTO has grown from a collection of seven exhibitions and events to a ten-day Festival of over 100 free exhibitions and events throughout the city. You can find full programming details here.
When: January 17 through 26
Time: Varies by exhibition
Where: Venues throughout the city
Price: Over 100 exhibitions are free to the public (others are ticketed)
Toronto Light Fest
With the coldest and darkest days upon us, the city’s historic Distillery District will be the place to be for the fourth annual Toronto Light Fest. Bringing dozens of curated light installations and illuminated sculptures created by a number of local and international artists, the Toronto Light Festival should not be missed.
When: January 17 through March 1
Time: After dusk
Where: Distillery District
Price: Admission is free
Rom 3rd Tuesday Nights Free
The ROM is giving Torontonians the perfect reason to leave their homes this winter with the return of 3rd Tuesday Nights Free. During this monthly event, ROM guests will be able to explore art, culture, and nature in the museum’s 30 galleries and collections from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, completely free of charge.
When: January 21
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queens Park
Price: Admission is free
Power Plant Opening Party
To kick off the 2020 winter exhibition season, Toronto art enthusiasts can check out a free party on January 24. Attendees will be amongst the first to experience new exhibitions by Naufus Ramírez-Figueroa, Dawit L. Petros, Naeem Mohaiemen, and Rashid Johnson. There will also be a cash bar available on-site throughout the evening.
When: January 24
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: The Power Plant
Price: Admission is free
The Mommonality MRKT
Experience the very first Mommonality MRKT to shop all sorts of goodies. It’s at this exciting market that you can shop over 40+ vendors from a wide range of categories including adult & children’s apparel, accessories, home decor, custom gifts, and lots more!
When: January 26
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Mississauga Convention Centre
Price: Admission is free
Winter Fridays
Happening every Friday until February 14 at Evergreen Brick Works is Winter Fridays where you can make the most of those chilly winter nights. While we love cozying up at home with a movie and cup of tea, sometimes you just need a night out. At Winter Fridays you can skate for free, enjoy DJ performance, and food & drinks from food trucks.
When: Every Friday night (January 10, 17, 24, 31, February 7, and 14)
Time: 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Where: Evergreen Brick Works
Price: Admission is free
Free Mindfulness Meditation
Clear your head with some free guided meditation. that’s happening every Monday at 6 p.m. until February 3. Located at Centre Place on Richmond East, the meditation is open to everybody regardless of your experience. While this event is totally free, a donation of at least $5 is suggested. If 6 p.m. doesn’t work for your busy schedule, you can still stop by until 8 p.m., although the guided part of the meditation ends at 7 p.m.
When: Every Monday night (January 13, 20, 27, February 3)
Time: 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Where: CentrePlace (320 Richmond St E – Unit 101)
Price: Admission is free
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Somehow, we’re only two months away from full-blown winter which means the holidays are right around the corner. We just found out that Ontario Place has big things planned this year’s Winter Light Exhibition, along with other fun festivities. If you missed out last year, you should definitely be checking it out.
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You’ll be able to explore the Winter Light Exhibition which will have 18 unique light exhibits to check out, created by artists across Ontario. This year’s theme is Disruptive Engagement which will challenge the creator and user to think about the light (or the lack thereof) in the context of the winter landscape. There will be over 100 trees wrapped in fairy lights will be a beautiful sight to see among the snow-frosted trees.
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Visitors can also expect a series of DJ nights at the stunning waterfront venue, along with a range of films at the Cinesphere like Die Hard (1998), Ghostbusters (1985), The Incredibles 2: The IMAX Experience (2018) and tons more.
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The Winter Light Exhibition will run from November 23 to March 17 on the West Island of Ontario Place. There will be free entry for community bonfires (where you can sip hot chocolate and roast marshmallows) and public skating. Onsite there will be multiple food trucks and site-wide music.
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Source: DailyHive.com
The list of things to do this holiday season is rapidly expanding. Toronto is home to some of the best winter festivals and a new one has just been announced.
The Aurora Winter Festival announced that their holiday experience will span 24-days and will take place at Ontario Place from Thursday, November 29 to Sunday, December 30, 2018.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SI0Ls7drqME&feature=youtu.be
Presented in partnership with the Canadian National Exhibition, the festival is being pitched as the first of its kind in the Toronto market. The festival will feature enchanting elements inspired by the North Pole including magical characters, captivating light displays, endless fun, games and activities.
The festival will feature events and activities that are entertaining for both adults and children in a fun and affordable way. The festival is located in the heart of Toronto meaning that it has easy access from both the TTC and Go Services. With Tickets starting at $14.99 it’s an affordable way to take in a winter festival with your family without breaking the bank.
3D Rendering of the Aurora Winter Festival at Ontario Place (East Island)
The Festival Will Feature: Mystical Worlds and North Pole Characters
When guests enter the Aurora Winter Festival, they will be given the opportunity to explore four Mystical Worlds inspired by the North Pole, each region bursting with sensory experiences, impressive set designs and custom light displays. The Mystical Worlds will include the Disco Den, Arctic Retreat, Luminous Gardens, and a Whimsical Forest.
Within these interactive areas, guests will cross paths with captivating characters including Thyra, the Queen of the Ice Elves, who resides in an impressive castle; Rivera and Zaos, both ice elves sworn to protect the Mystical Worlds; Yin the Yeti Prince, who loves to have fun and is a big fan of disco; and of course, Santa and his team of elves.
Thyra’s Palace at the Aurora Winter Festival
Attractions
The Aurora Winter Festival will offer a wide selection of attractions that will transform Ontario Place into the ultimate winter wonderland.
Highlights will include an outdoor ice-skating pond; 50-foot LED light dome programmed with flowing Aurora lights; Santa’s workshop, where children will engage in creative crafts and see St. Nick himself; carnival rides; a tube park with a 170-foot-long slide covered in artificial snow; and Main Street, lined with over 50 Christmas-inspired market vendors.
The festival will be fully licensed, serving speciality holiday beverages, and Toronto’s favourite food trucks and vendors will take part in the celebrations at the Food Gardens. Visitors will be able to savour their selections under a large heated Entertainment Tent with live performances each evening.
Interactive App available on iOS and Android
Through a convenient smartphone app, guests will be invited to join the Mystical Worlds Quest, offering exclusive opportunities and prizes. The app will also feature a comprehensive sitemap, merchandise store and background on festival characters.
Presale tickets will go on sale tomorrow (Wednesday, October 17) from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and the general sale will start at 10 a.m. on Thursday, October 18. You can get tickets Here
Toronto is host to some awesome date spots that are perfect for you, your S.O. and your favourite other couple. Going on a double date can be lots of fun, but it can also be awkward and boring in certain situations. Think of it more of a hang-out than an actual date, so the pressure’s off and you can all enjoy yourselves. It’s a great way for the four of you to bond, especially if you find a spot all of you can enjoy.
Whether you’re up for trying delicious Middle Eastern dishes, want to laugh the night away, or are down for some friendly competition, these are the best double date spots in Toronto.
1. Fat Pasha
Image: instagram/@bonappetitemag
One of the most scrumptious Middle Eastern and European Jewish restaurants in Toronto, Fat Pasha is ideal for a double date. With dishes like the classic fat hummus, eggplant schnitzel, roasted cauliflower with tahini and so much more, they’re perfect for sharing so you can try a range of plates between the four of you. Add a glass of wine or rosé, and a dessert such as the Israeli cheesecake, and you’ll all be leaving satisfied.
2. Nathan Phillips Square Ice Rink
Image: instagram/@gingersnapbeth
Skating is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. One of Toronto’s most-loved outdoor skating rinks, Nathan Phillips Square, is perfect for your night out on the town. You can take in the beauty of Toronto while gliding along the rink, and with heaps of food trucks lining the perimeter, you can grab a bite to eat and keep warm with a hot drink after skating the night away.
3. The Second City
Image: instagram/@taraxlee
If your group is up for some laughs, head to The Second City, a comedy club that always boasts a lineup of great shows. Get there early to get good seats, and order some food and drink to enjoy while you’re watching and laughing away. Keep in mind, they often call on the audience at the front, so be prepared to join in on the show if you want front row seats.
4. Otto’s Bierhalle
Image: instagram/@ottosbierhalle
With a generous list of beers, plus wine, rosé, and fun cocktails, including one by the name of Champagne Mami, there’s tons of fun to be had at Otto’s Bierhalle. And with offerings like roast pork belly with apple compote, a 3-cheese fondue with pretzels, and beef tenderloin with mushrooms and caramelized onions, you can all catch up over delicious food. The well-lit spot is spacious, with lots of roomy tables, oh, and don’t forget to head to the bathroom for a little disco experience.
5. AGO First Thursdays
Image: instagram/@andrikalawren
On the first Thursday of every month, the Art Gallery of Ontario stays open late for a big bash. From 7 to 11:30 pm there’s a cash bar and a new theme to explore each month. With a lineup of awesome live music and hors d’oeuvres to snack on throughout the night, you can take in all the culture the art gallery has to offer. You don’t have to be an art lover to enjoy AGO first Thursdays, you just have to be up for a good time.
6. BATL
Image: instagram/@batlground
Indoor axe throwing is such a fun double date idea! It’s thrilling and something different than heading to a restaurant or bar. Compete against each other in playful rounds that will have you all on your toes. Depending on the location, you can bring your own outdoor food and drink to keep your energy up throughout the game.
Do you know any other great spots for double dates in Toronto? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @ukie_power
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So, 2018 is clearly off to a brutal start weather-wise in Toronto. While the appeal of a hibernation season of perpetual sweatpants, Netflix, and a comfy couch is real, so is the stir-craziness when it all gets old.
The good news is, the city is full of unique activities that you’ll only find in Toronto – ones worth posting about and taking a break from the Netflix binge for.
Check Out One of the World’s Most Instagram-Worthy Art Exhibits
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd5165MBNe4/?hl=en&tagged=infinitekusama
Just before the ice begins to thaw in Toronto, Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors will take over the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) with its floor-to-ceiling, mirror-lined, and totally Instagram-worthy (check out the #infinitekusama hashtag) kaleidoscopic rooms from March 3 to May 27. After sold-out stints in Washington, D.C., Seattle and Los Angeles in the past year, the immersive exhibit is one of the hottest tickets in Toronto this winter (as in, you’re lucky to get your hands on a pair unless you have connections). Read more about the exhibit here.
Experience Dracula in a Whole New Way
Toronto is about to get a theatrical experience that is unlike anything else the city has seen to date. Inspired by – and with the cast from – New York City’s smash-hit theatrical dance experience Sleep No More, Eve of St. George is a voyeuristic and immersive recreation of Bram Stoker’s captivating tale of Dracula. It’s the type of theatre even the theatre newbies will appreciate, as the audience is masked and set free to roam four levels of The Great Hall while the story unfolds around and interacts with them. There will be four performances beginning January 26.
Acquaint Yourself with the Vikings
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Get up close and personal with everything Viking-related at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) now through April 2. Vikings: The Exhibition offers a fresh and contemporary view into the Viking Age, exploring the facts, myths, and stereotypes associated with the ancient culture. Featuring objects rarely displayed outside of Scandinavia, it offers insight into the lifestyle, religion, and daily lives of the vikings, providing an educational date night or outing with the niece and nephew.
Hit the Distillery District for a Light Show Full of Photo Ops
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Aside from the comfort dish-filled restaurants, you have another reason to hit the Distillery District this winter. Returning for the second year in a row is the Toronto Light Festival, the city’s largest light art festival and one of the largest open-air galleries in North America. The festival features more than 30 light art installations from both local and international artists and runs January 10 to March 4, starting at sundown daily. The event is free to the public (always a welcome bonus).
See Lifeguard Stations Transformed into Works of Art
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Layer up and hit the beach for Toronto’s annual Winter Stations Design Competition. The playful, photo-worthy exhibit transforms existing lifeguard stations into interesting and conversation-provoking art installations. With a theme of RIOT for 2018, artists are asked to push back and act out after a year of chaos and uncertainty. Winter Stations runs February 19 to April 1.
Experience a Revitalized Ontario Place
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The once defunct (but still super nostalgic) grounds of Ontario Place have been given new life. Winter at Ontario Place transforms Toronto’s waterfront into an interactive event with perks that include a Winter Light Exhibition featuring 12 illuminated installations from local artists, film screenings, skating, a bonfire, and an assortment of other winter-themed activities. Programming runs through March 18 and admission is free.
Did we miss any unique experiences taking place in Toronto this winter? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @romtoronto
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The iconic and beautiful waterfront at Ontario Place has been fully renovated and is now ready to embrace the holiday season. From December 8th to March 18th, the West Island will be filled with activities and attractions for “Winter at Ontario Place”. When the snow starts falling, this will be a perfect spot for all the best Instagram photo-ops. Head over with a group of friends or your significant other for a day of fun. Make sure you dress warmly (hat and gloves required) – we can guarantee it will be chilly.
Get cozy at the newly reopened Cinesphere to watch IMAX movies that will change year-round. The Winter Light Exhibition will be open daily and feature the highly anticipated, 12-foot-tall, freestanding icicle silo. The skating rink will be open Friday evenings and all weekend long, with skate rentals available. Sit back and relax on their warm log seating and Muskoka chairs. Get romantic by the bonfire at dusk, overlooking the stunning shoreline. Enjoy the shimmery lights that will adorn the pathways throughout Ontario Place.
Image: Instagram/@ontarioplace
Featured Image: Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport
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