Things to Do in Toronto This Week (January 6-12)
Still catching your breath after the holiday hustle? Don’t worry; January has plenty of fun left to offer. Our list of things to do this week in Toronto (January 6-12) will help you shake off that post-holiday slump.
The holidays might be behind us, but January in Toronto is just starting. This week is packed with events to help you ease into the New Year. Now, let’s see what will catch your interest.
Please note that event details and schedules may change. Before planning, check the official websites or contact event organizers for the most up-to-date information.
Top Things to Do This Week in Toronto (January 6–12)
Cavalcade of Lights (Ongoing, Until January 7)
Still haven’t checked this off your holiday to-do list? No worries; this is your last chance to catch Toronto’s famous holiday event at Nathan Phillips Square. The giant Christmas tree is the star of the show, surrounded by a dreamlike skyline, ice skating, and live performances.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Family outings, romantic dates, or just enjoying a festive atmosphere one last time.
Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Ongoing, Until January 12)
Feel like some heartwarming entertainment? This musical offers catchy tunes, striking visuals, and a feel-good story. It’s an ideal event this week if you prefer some uplifting vibes.
- Location: Al Green Theatre – 750 Spadina Ave. (at Bloor), Toronto
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.theatre.to
- Best for: Families, musical lovers, or anyone craving a little joy and colour.
New Vistas Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 14, 2025)
New Vistas brings together bold, fresh perspectives from emerging artists. It even combines creativity and innovation to inspire you (and maybe spark a few ideas for your 2025 goals).
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Casual art fans, deep thinkers, and anyone curious about fresh ideas.
Tell Me, What’s Real? Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 16)
Art that’ll get you thinking? Eva Francis-Work’s pieces highlight gender and identity through AI-generated environments. Plus, it’s thought-provoking and visually intriguing.
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery (Ascent Gallery, Level 1, Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Contemporary art lovers, curious minds, and friends looking for conversation starters.
We’ve Got Games: A Merril Collection Exhibit (Ongoing, Until January 26)
This exhibit is like a time capsule of gaming history. From vintage board games to rare collectibles, you’ll find something to geek out over at every corner. You might even leave with a new appreciation for the classics.
- Location: Toronto Public Library – Lillian H. Smith Branch (239 College St., Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca
- Best for: Gaming fans, families, and anyone who loves a good throwback.
Window Wonderland (Ongoing, Until January 31)
Who says winter art can’t be a little adventurous? Stroll through the Junction and check out 20 augmented reality (AR) window displays. Snap a few pics (they’re all super Insta-worthy), appreciate creativity, and maybe grab a coffee while you wander.
- Location: The Junction neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontojunction.ca
- Best for: Friends, outdoor enthusiasts, and casual art lovers.
Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Ongoing, Until February 2, 2025)
Roller skating… in the middle of winter? Union Station has turned its rink into a free-skating spot, with rentals, beginner lessons, and live DJs. Showing off your moves or holding the boards for dear life? Always expect fun.
- Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Register here.
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Best for: Families, friends, and winter nights with a twist.
Winter Skating at The Bentway (Ongoing, Until February 17, 2025)
Skating under the Gardiner Expressway hits differently. How? It combines city vibes and winter cheer. The Bentway’s figure-eight trail is ideal for all skill levels, and you can have affordable or even free rentals (select days).
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thebentway.ca
- Best for: Outdoorsy types, skaters (beginners and pros), and date nights.
Hangar Skate at YZD (Ongoing, Until February 17)
Looking for a fun skating or winter hangout spot? Hangar Skate offers a massive indoor rink, live DJ nights, and eye-catching art installations. Entry is free, and skate rentals won’t hurt your wallet either.
- Location: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.yzd.ca
- Best for: Families, skaters, music fans, and anyone who loves a good hangout spot.
Window Box Gallery at Gallery 1313 (Ongoing, Until February 26)
This one’s for art lovers who like a little depth. Sunshine Tormé Johnson’s exhibit highlights personal and social themes through healing-focused pieces.
- Location: Gallery 1313 (1313 Queen Street W, Toronto)
- Website: www.gallery1313.org
- Best for: Reflective visitors, solo gallery trips, or meaningful moments with friends.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year at ROM (Ongoing, Until May 4)
Curious about or interested in nature photography? These award-winning shots capture magnificent moments in the wild, like majestic animals and dramatic landscapes. Plus, the backlit displays make each photo pop.
- Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.rom.on.ca
- Best for: Nature lovers, photography fans, and anyone seeking inspiration.
Cross Cut (January 6–29)
Cross Cut features old-school folk songs and bold linocut art for a distinctive storytelling experience. Artist Rob Niezen includes big themes like immigration, love, war, and labour, giving them a modern twist.
- Location: Cedar Ridge Creative Centre (225 Confederation Dr, Scarborough)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Art lovers, folk music fans, and anyone who enjoys deep, meaningful storytelling.
Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan (January 9–10)
Two comedy legends on one stage? Jerry Seinfeld’s sharp observations and Jim Gaffigan’s clean, clever comedy make this a must-watch show.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 9) or here (Jan 10).
- Website: www.scotiabankarena.com
- Best for: Comedy fans, date nights, and anyone needing a good laugh.
Afrobeats & RnB Pilates! Fit in 2025 (January 9)
This Pilates session pairs body-toning moves with a killer playlist of Afrobeats and RnB hits. It’s 60 minutes of pure energy, followed by a chill stretch session set to smooth ballads. Bring your mat, move to the rhythm, and connect with some incredible people while you’re at it.
- Location: Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @jonah_events
- Best for: Anyone looking to break a sweat, reset for the year, and groove to great music.
Glendon Dance Team Dance Showcase (January 10–11)
Is dancing your favourite mood booster? From graceful contemporary moves to high-energy hip-hop routines, The Glendon Dance Team delivers passion, talent, and fun.
- Location: Glendon Theatre, Glendon Campus of York University (2275 Bayview Ave, North York)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @glendondanceteam
- Best for: Dance lovers, community supporters, and anyone who wants to leave feeling inspired.
Canada’s Bridal Show (January 10–12)
Wedding bells in your future? Canada’s Bridal Show has everything—from dreamy gowns to delicious catering samples and even jewellery you’ll want to wear forever. There’s also a full-on fashion show, so you can see the latest trends in action. Even if you’re just in the “getting ideas” stage, this event is worth it.
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St. W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.canadasbridalshow.com
- Best for: Brides-to-be, planners, and anyone obsessed with wedding inspo.
Comedian CP Live in Toronto (January 10)
Catch this rising star at Comedy Bar Danforth for a night of sharp, relatable humour. He’s known for mixing real-life stories with laugh-out-loud punchlines. Bonus? Special guest Mr. Lewin brings extra laughs to the stage.
- Location: Comedy Bar East (2800 Danforth Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comedybar.ca
- Best for: Stand-up comedy lovers and HBO fans.
A New Kind of Wilderness – The Hottest Docs (January 10–11)
Want an emotional movie night? This Sundance-winning documentary follows a family living off the grid in Norway—until tragedy strikes. It’s heartfelt, raw, and thought-provoking.
- Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema (506 Bloor St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 10) or here (Jan 11).
- Website: www.hotdocs.ca
- Best for: Documentary fans, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a meaningful story.
3MFrench w/ NorthWayMusic & SBO Swampy (January 10)
Love hip-hop? This local artist blends raw street vibes with melodic hooks. This show is a story of hustle and staying true to your roots.
- Location: Lee’s Palace (529 Bloor St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.leespalace.com
- Best for: 19+, hip-hop fans, and groups of friends looking for a night out.
Dance ’til Dusk (January 11)
Dark beats, post-punk vibes, and a killer DJ set? DJ Greg Clow is bringing the energy for a night to keep you moving. So, hit the dance floor and let the music take over.
- Location: Ground Control (1279 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: $10 at the door
- Website: www.stainedproductions.com
- Best for: 19+, music fans, and anyone who loves an alternative scene.
Let’s Get Physical: 80s Aerobics Dance Class (January 11)
Neon? Check. Leg warmers? Check. A playlist full of 80s bops? You bet. Led by choreographer Melissa Bartrem, this aerobics dance class lets you have fun while breaking a sweat, regardless of your skill level. And stick around after class to check out an exhibit on 80s fashion.
- Location: Bata Shoe Museum (327 Bloor St. W., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.batashoemuseum.ca
- Best for: Anyone who loves the 80s, group workouts, or wants to laugh while exercising.
DJ Skate Nights at Evergreen Brick Works (January 11–February 22)
Skating, music, and winter vibes—what more do you need? DJ Skate Nights at Evergreen Brick Works transforms their rink into a dancefloor under the stars. The DJ’s spinning bangers, there are hot drinks and s’mores, and even firepits to warm up between laps.
- Location: Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Avenue, Toronto)
- Dates: January 11, 18 and 25 / February 1, 8, 15 and 22
- Admission: PWYC, suggested $5 / per person (TipTap only)
- Website: www.evergreen.ca
- Best for: Skaters, music lovers, and anyone who wants to mix fun and fitness this winter.
The National Franchise Show (January 11–12)
It’s 2025, and you might be planning to start your own business. This event features over 165 franchise opportunities and expert-led seminars.
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.franchiseshowinfo.com
- Best for: Aspiring entrepreneurs and career changers.
Toronto Film Society Double Feature (January 12)
For one price, you can watch Repeat Performance and Death Takes a Holiday for a nostalgic trip to Hollywood’s golden age. There’s even a pre-show draw and an intermission to chat with fellow film buffs.
- Location: Paradise Theatre (1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.paradiseonbloor.com
- Best for: Movie lovers and anyone who loves classic movies.
Zachariah Porter: The Strip Mall Tease Tour (January 12)
Comedy mixes with theatre in this offbeat show filled with quirky characters and creative storytelling. Zachariah Porter brings a little of everything—humour, creativity, and maybe wigs.
- Location: The Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thedanforth.com
- Best for: Comedy fans and those who enjoy something original.
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