Things to Do This Week in Toronto (January 13-19)
Stuck on what to do this week? From events that will beat the winter blues to excuses to get out of the house, plenty is happening to keep you busy and smiling. We’ve created a list of things to do this week (January 13 – 19) in Toronto that will make you love having plans to look forward to. Don’t let the week slip by without making the most of it.
Event details/schedules might change, so check the official websites or contact the organisers to stay updated.
Fun Things To Do This Week in Toronto (January 13 – 19)
New Vistas Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 14)
First, why not start your week with a bit of artistic inspiration? New Vistas introduces fresh perspectives and bold ideas from new talents. So, swing by and see what’s new in the art world.
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Art lovers, solo outings, casual dates
Tell Me, What’s Real? Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 16)
So, how do gender and technology overlap? Eva Francis-Work’s exhibit gives you the answer through incredible AI-generated prints. And it’s beyond being eye-catching as it sparks big conversations.
- 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: Thoughtful friends, solo thinkers, tech lovers
We’ve Got Games: A Merril Collection Exhibit (Ongoing, Until January 26)
Love gaming or just missing your childhood favourites? This exhibit lets you enjoy vintage gems like rare Magic: The Gathering artwork or Lord of the Rings games. Plus, you’ll learn a bit about gaming history along the way.
- Location: Toronto Public Library – Lillian H. Smith Branch (239 College St., Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca
- Best for: Families, friends, gamers.
Cross Cut (Ongoing, Until January 29)
Rob Niezen’s exhibit creatively combines folk songs and linocuts. It highlights love, politics, and immigration in a fresh and familiar way.
- Location: Cedar Ridge Creative Centre (225 Confederation Dr, Scarborough)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Quiet afternoons, creative minds
Window Wonderland (Ongoing, Until January 31)
Want to make your winter walk creative? As you visit the Junction, check out 20 AR window displays and snap some Instagram-worthy pics. And yes, having your favourite drink while wandering is a fun idea.
- Location: The Junction neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontojunction.ca
- Best for: Date ideas, family strolls, solo adventurers
Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Ongoing, Until February 2)
Too busy for roller skating last week? No more excuses this time. Union Station’s rink offers free skating, live DJs, and more. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or just learning to stay on your feet; you’ll enjoy the entire experience.
- Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Register here.
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Best for: Fun-loving families, friends, casual dates
Winter Skating at The Bentway (Ongoing, Until February 17)
Skating but under the Gardiner? Now, that’s a Toronto winter experience. The Bentway’s figure-eight trail is best suited for skaters of all levels. Rentals are affordable and free on some days, so no more reasons for not joining the fun.
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thebentway.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, friends
Hangar Skate Returns to YZD! (Ongoing, Until February 17)
Tired of the usual skating rink? YZD offers art installations, DJ nights, and family-friendly events in a massive space designed for all ages. And it deserves a spot on your exciting winter outing list.
- Location: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.yzd.ca
- Best for: Families, chill hangouts, art-loving skaters
Weekend Public Skating at Evergreen Brick Works (Ongoing, Until February 23)
Another skating spot? But this time, the views are snowy gardens under the historic beams of a brick factory. It mixes nature, history, and community feel while enjoying the season.
- Location: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.evergreen.ca
- Best for: Families, couples, solo outings
Window Box Gallery at Gallery 1313 (Ongoing, Until February 26)
Sunshine Tormé Johnson‘s art is deeply personal yet speaks to everyone. Her pieces focus on healing and thriving, blending personal stories with social themes
- Location: Gallery 1313 (1313 Queen Street W, Toronto)
- Website: www.gallery1313.org
- Best for: Art enthusiasts, solo thinkers
Wildlife Photographer of the Year at ROM (Ongoing, Until May 4)
Now, check out these award-winning photographs that bring the wild to life. With backlit displays that make every detail pop, you’ll see the beauty of our natural world up close.
- Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.rom.on.ca
- Best for: Families, photography lovers
Beer and Cheese Flight Night (January 13)
We know something better than beer. It’s a beer with cheese. This tasting night pairs craft beers with gourmet cheeses for an exciting excuse to treat yourself.
- Location: Left Field Brewery (36 Wagstaff Drive, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.fanshop.leftfieldbrewery.ca
- Best for: Friends, foodies, beer lovers
Cultural Narratives: The Storytelling Power of Design (January 14)
Who knew 1980s sneakers had so much to say? This panel by Designlines Magazine will tell you how footwear from the past shaped cultural trends that still influence us today.
- Location: Bata Shoe Museum (327 Bloor St. W., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.batashoemuseum.ca
- Best for: Design fans, trend lovers
Winter Solstice (January 14 – February 2)
Searching for a play that’s both relatable and funny? Winter Solstice is a comedy of manners set on Christmas Eve, mixing family drama with politics and betrayal. It’s clever, entertaining, and full of moments to make you think.
- Location: Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.canadianstage.com
- Best for: Theatre lovers, witty date ideas
Dinner with the Duchess (January 14 – February 2)
Prefer gripping, emotional stories? This intense drama peels back the layers of fame, passion, and legacy as a violinist faces buried secrets during her final interview.
- Location: Studio Theatre (345 Carlaw Avenue, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.crowstheatre.com
- Best for: Theatre enthusiasts, introspective dates
Emanuel Ax + Mozart (January 15, 18, 19)
This week, Emanuel Ax will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25 alongside the famed theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey. We can say it’s one of the performances you’ll be glad you didn’t miss.
- Location: Roy Thomson Hall (60 Simcoe Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.tso.ca
- Best for: Music fans, families
R&B Pilates! Fit in 2025 (January 15)
Pilates, but with R&B beats? This workout combines smooth beats of old-school R&B with energising moves. In the end, you’ll find yourself feeling strong and refreshed.
- Location: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @jonah_events
- Best for: Fitness buddies, solo self-care
2025 Language – Dance Happy Hour (January 16)
What if you could learn a new language that you could pair with salsa or bachata? This fun night would let you meet new people, improve your skills, and even appreciate different cultures.
- Location: Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas Street West Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.todotoronto.com
- Best for: Social butterflies, cultural explorers, dance enthusiasts
Networking Event for Professionals! Hosted at Aera (January 16)
No idea how to grow your network or meet like-minded people? This event by The Hip Haus is ideal for anyone, including business owners, job seekers, students, or those with fresh ideas. What to do? Bring an open mind, meet new people, and grow your circle of friends, colleagues, and mentors.
- Location: Aera (8 Spadina Avenue #3800 Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thehiphaus.com
- Best for: Professionals, students, entrepreneurs
TD Music Celebrates Lunar New Year (January 16)
No plans for the Lunar New Year celebration yet? How about some live music? This free event has a thrilling lineup featuring MICO, who’s redefining indie-pop, and Tiger Balme, a band that mixes ‘90s pop, disco, and indie. Also, Alex Kade hosts it, so you’ll love the energy of new beginnings.
- Location: Union Station Toronto (65 Front Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Best for: Music lovers, families, friends
Yundi (January 16)
Yundi Li returns after a three-year break, performing Mozart’s sonatas, including the iconic Piano Sonata K331. And as always, Yundi’s performances are expected to leave audiences inspired.
- Location: Roy Thomson Hall (60 Simcoe Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: roythomsonhall.mhrth.com
- Best for: Classical music fans, families
Maxime Zecchini’s Live Performance (January 16)
Ever seen a pianist perform with just one hand? Maxime Zecchini redefines what’s possible on the piano, be it classical masterpieces or musical theatre.
- Location: Alliance Francaise Toronto – Downtown campus (24 Spadina Road, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.maximezecchini.com
- Best for: Music enthusiasts, anyone seeking inspiring experiences
Lucas Zelnick (January 16)
Lucas Zelnick lets you experience a good laugh this week with his relatable comedy on the stage. You’ve probably seen his viral clips, but his live shows are even better. This show feels like a conversation with your funniest friend.
- Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre (190 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.lucaszelnick.com
- Best for: Comedy fans, friends night out
Besties Night: Unlimited Mimosas After Dark – Paint Night Workshop (January 17)
When was the last time you and your BFF had a fun night out? This paint-and-sip workshop lets you do it again, featuring unlimited mimosas and a chance to showcase your creative side.
- Location: The Paint Garden (627 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thepaintgarden.ca
- Best for: Best friends, fun-seekers
Mackie: Pennies from Heaven (January 17)
This bittersweet musical is set during the Depression era and tells the story of a salesman chasing love and dreams. Bob Mackie’s costumes are striking, and the heartfelt storyline keeps it stimulating.
- Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema (506 Bloor St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.hotdocs.ca
- Best for: Musical fans, theatre lovers
Bordeaux’s Dazzling 2022s (January 17)
This tasting event is your chance to sample over 80 Bordeaux wines. You’ll also meet winery reps who’ll help you find the ideal sip.
- Location: Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex (25 British Columbia Rd., Exhibition Place, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.lcbo.com
- Best for: Wine lovers, curious tasters
Googoosh: Final Chapter World Tour (January 17)
Celebrate six decades of music with Persian pop legend Googoosh. Her Final Chapter World Tour is a heartfelt tribute to her career and legacy. It will highlight how her music has inspired generations.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @googoosh
- Best for: Persian music fans, concert-goers
Mike Glazer Live @ Backroom Comedy Club (January 17–18)
Mike Glazer’s comedy is witty and refreshingly relatable. Distinguished for his HBO work and festival appearances, his storytelling feels like catching up with an old friend.
- Location: Backroom Comedy Club (814 Bloor St W Basement Unit, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.backroomcomedyclub.com
- Best for: Comedy lovers, friends night out
Hart House U of T Festival of Music (January 17–18)
What happens once you check out the U of T music scene at Hart House Theatre? You’ll witness talented students giving their best solo and group performances.
- Location: Hart House Theatre (7 Hart House Cir, Toronto)
- Admission: Check ticket prices here.
- Website: www.harthouse.ca
- Best for: Music lovers, university community
Jamaica in January (January 18)
reason to get out of your winter hibernation? Jamaica in January brings the warmth of the Caribbean with jerk chicken demos, Jamaican patty tastings, and live drumming. Also, join the DJ set by DJ Bruk Out.
- Location: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @jamaicaneatsmagazine
- Best for: Foodies, families, culture lovers
Allan Gardens Saturday Farmers’ Market (January 18)
Fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and more—get them at Allan Gardens Farmers’ Market. Besides stocking up for the week, you can support the community and appreciate the flourishing greenhouses.
- Location: 19 Horticultural Ave, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.friendsofallangardens.ca
- Best for: Families, local shoppers
Heineken Route 0.0 (January 18)
Ever partied on a streetcar? Now’s your chance! The Heineken Route 0.0 offers live music from Toronto’s hottest DJs and free streetcar rides. Plus, your wristband gets you free entry to participating bars.
- Location: Pick up is at Richmond and Spadina
- Admission: Free
- Instagram: @heinekenca
- Best for: Party-goers, music fans, unique experiences
Classic Albums Live: Paul McCartney and Wings (January 18)
A big fan of Band on the Run? Here’s your chance to experience it once more. Classic Albums Live is recreating Paul McCartney and Wings’ 1973 masterpiece with precision, just as you remember it.
- Location: Massey Hall (178 Victoria Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.masseyhall.mhrth.com
- Best for: Music fans, concert-goers
CSC Fancon: Where Worlds Collide (January 18–19)
From cosplay competitions to K-pop, TCG tournaments, gaming, and collectibles, CSC Fancon makes the weekend thrilling for pop culture lovers. Other event highlights include photo booths, rare finds, and even a live concert by MICO.
- Location: The International Centre (6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.csceventhq.com
- Best for: Pop culture fans, cosplayers, gamers
Music in the Morning with Ellie @ Left Field Leslieville (January 19)
Your Sunday morning? Start it with music and fun at Left Field Leslieville. Ellie’s sing-alongs blend all-time favourite tunes and original songs, creating an interactive space for kids and parents.
- Location: Left Field Brewery (36 Wagstaff Drive, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.fanshop.leftfieldbrewery.ca
- Best for: Families, young kids
Disco Brunch Party at Fox on John (January 19)
How would you like to wrap up your weekend? Fox on John will serve bottomless cava, fresh juices, and brunch favourites, while a live DJ spins disco hits. So, it’s a Sunday of good food, lively beats, and a little dancing.
- Location: Fox on John (106 John Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.foxonjohn.ca
- Best for: Brunch lovers, weekend partiers, disco fans
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