Things To Do This Week (January 20-26)

You know that feeling when the week’s rolling in, and you’re thinking, “What should I actually do?” Maybe the idea of staying in sounds tempting, but deep down, you know you could change pace. So, have you checked out what’s happening in the city this week? If not, I’ve created a list of the best things to do this week (January 20 – 26) to let you enjoy the cold Toronto air. Want a solo moment to recharge or a date night you’ve been meaning to plan? I’ll help you make this week one to look back on with a little smile.

Kindly note that event schedules and details may be subject to changes. We recommend checking the official websites or contact event organisers for the most up-to-date information.

Things To Do This Week (January 20-26, 2025) – Events, Activities, and More

We’ve Got Games: A Merril Collection Exhibit (Ongoing, Until January 26)

If gaming or collecting is your thing, this exhibit should be on your list. You’ll find incredible stuff like a Lord of the Rings board game and original Magic: The Gathering art. Yup, like a short trip through gaming history.

• Location: Toronto Public Library – Lillian H. Smith Branch (239 College St., Toronto)
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca
• Best for: Gamers, friends, and collectors.

Cross Cut (Ongoing, Until January 29)

This one’s highlighting folk songs, linocuts, and heartfelt stories. It creatively blends art and music with love, migration, and everyday life themes. Somehow, it feels unfading and relevant at the same time.

• Location: Cedar Ridge Creative Centre (225 Confederation Dr, Scarborough)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Best for: Art lovers and those who appreciate creative storytelling.

Window Wonderland (Ongoing, Until January 31)

Missed a winter walk last week? Don’t waste your chance this time. The Junction has become an outdoor art gallery with AR window displays and murals. Plus, it’s pretty Instagram-worthy if that’s your thing.

• Location: The Junction neighbourhood
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.torontojunction.ca
• Best for: Families, friends, or anyone who loves outdoor fun.

Cineplex $5 Tickets and Popcorn Every Tuesday (Ongoing, Until February 11)

Need an easy way to break up the week? Cineplex currently offers $5 movie tickets and $5 popcorn every Tuesday. It’s an affordable way to catch the latest films and escape the winter chill for a couple of hours.

• Location: Multiple Cineplex branches 
• Website: www.cineplex.com

Best for: Movie lovers, budget-friendly dates, and families.

Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Ongoing, Until February 2)

Union Station’s rink is another ideal spot for winter fun this week. They’re offering free skate rentals, lessons, and even live DJs. A beginner or a pro? You have no excuse not to enjoy the season.

• Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Register here. 
• Website: www.torontounion.ca
• Best for: Families, first-time skaters, and casual winter outings.

Winter Skating at The Bentway (Ongoing, Until February 17)

One of winter’s best activities in Toronto? Fun-seekers would agree if I say it’s ice skating under the Gardiner. The figure-eight trail is suited for any skill level, and there are free skate rentals on some days.

• Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto 
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.thebentway.ca
• Best for: Couples, friends, and families looking for an outdoor activity.

Hangar Skate at YZD (Ongoing, Until February 17)

This one has everything every fun-seeker would also love—a huge ice rink, DJ nights, and even art installations. Admission is free, and you’ll appreciate how budget-friendly the rentals are. So, don’t let the week slide without visiting this spot.

• Location: YZD (34 Hanover Road Toronto)
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.yzd.ca
• Best for: Friends, couples, and anyone looking for a fun winter hangout.

Weekend Public Skating at Evergreen Brick Works (Ongoing, Until February 23)

So, how would you like to spend your weekend? Here’s a skating spot where the views are snowy gardens, and you’re skating under the historic beams of an old brick factory.

• Location: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto 
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.evergreen.ca
• Best for: Families, date ideas, or anyone who loves outdoor skating.

Window Box Gallery at Gallery 1313 (Ongoing, Until February 26)

Sunshine Tormé Johnson’s art hits you on a personal level. Her work focuses on healing and thriving, blending personal experiences with social themes.

• Location: Gallery 1313 (1313 Queen Street W, Toronto)
• Website: www.gallery1313.org 
• Best for: Art lovers and those who appreciate storytelling through visuals.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year at ROM (Ongoing, Until May 4)

This exhibit is a nice addition to your bucket list if you’re into wildlife or photography. The backlit images capture unusual moments in nature, from animal portraits to sweeping landscapes. It almost feels like the animals are right there with you.

• Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.rom.on.ca
• Best for: Nature fans, families, and photography enthusiasts.

Winter Solstice (Ongoing, Until February 2)

Set on Christmas Eve, Winter Solstice takes on family drama, betrayal, and political tension. The dialogue is clever, and the cast brings every scene to life. This play that makes you laugh and think at the same time.

• Location: Berkeley Street Theatre (26 Berkeley Street, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.canadianstage.com
• Best for: Theatre fans.

Dinner With the Duchess (Ongoing, Until February 9)

This gripping play tells the life of a violin virtuoso as she reflects on fame, success, and her choices. Besides the intense and emotional elements, it’s beautifully acted.

• Location: Studio Theatre (345 Carlaw Avenue, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.crowstheatre.com
• Best for: Drama lovers.

Onyx Storm Midnight Release Party (January 20)

Every book lover could relate to this event. This week, celebrate the release of Onyx Storm with trivia, snacks, and other fans. Plus, you can grab a deluxe edition or hardcover copy to take home.

• Location: Left Field Brewery (40 Hanna Ave Suite G1, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.hopelessromanticbooks.ca
• Best for: Book lovers.

Campus Clothing Swap (January 21)

How about giving your wardrobe a refresh? Swap your gently used clothes for something new to you. This all-ages event welcomes all styles, sizes, and genders. And whatever’s left over gets donated to a great cause.

• Location: Hart House Building (7 Hart House Circle Toronto)
• Admission: RSVP here.
• Website: www.goodswap.ca 
• Best for: Thrifters, fashion fans, and anyone into sustainable shopping.

Art Battle Toronto (January 22)

This is creativity on a timer. Watch artists create their work in 20-minute rounds while the audience cheers them on. At the end, you can vote for the winner or even bid on your favourite piece.

• Location: The Great Hall (1087 Queen St. W., Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.artbattle.com 
• Best for: Friends and art enthusiasts.

Fifth Element Jazz Quintet at Reid’s Distillery (January 22)

Live jazz, craft cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere? This combination can be an unbeatable way to relax during the midweek. Of course, having a good company is a better idea.

• Location: Reid’s Distillery (32 Logan Ave., Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.fifthelementjazz.com
• Best for: Couples, jazz fans, and friends.

Sons of Silver’s Art of Letting Go Tour (January 22)

You’ll want to be at this show if you’re into high-energy rock with a touch of post-punk. Plus, the band’s live shows are raw, electric, and packed with emotion.

• Location: The Concert Hall (888 Yonge Street, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.sonsofsilver.com 
• Best for: Rock fans and concertgoers.

Beer & Oyster Flight Night @ Left Field Leslieville (January 23)

If beer and oysters sound like a midweek win, head to Left Field Leslieville. They’re teaming up with Sand & Pearl for a guided tasting of four shucked oysters paired with craft beer.

• Location: Left Field Brewery (36 Wagstaff Drive, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.fanshop.leftfieldbrewery.ca
• Best for: 19+, foodies, casual dates, or friends.

L’Impératrice w/ Night Tapes (January 23)

Paris-based band L’Impératrice brings their dreamy French pop, and nu-disco beats to Toronto. Their smooth melodies and galactic rhythms are well-suited for a relaxing evening out.

• Location: Rebel (11 Polson St., Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.l-imperatrice.cool
• Best for: Music lovers, friends, and those seeking laid-back concerts.

Kygo: World Tour Part Two (January 23)

Tropical house sound in Toronto? That’s what Kygo is bringing this week. This event is where you’ll want to lose yourself in the energy.

• Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.kygomusic.com
• Best for: EDM fans, partygoers, and anyone looking for a high-energy night.

Interior Design Show 2025 (January 23–26)

Toronto’s biggest design show returns this January. If you’re into design or need inspiration, this event showcases cutting-edge trends and creative ideas.

• Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.interiordesignshow.com
• Best for: Design enthusiasts, homeowners, and anyone planning a makeover.

It’s All Gonna Break (January 24–25)

This documentary takes you behind the scenes of Broken Social Scene’s journey, from basement jams to big festivals like Lollapalooza. Filmmaker Stephen Chung also shares his personal connection with the band.

• Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema (506 Bloor St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 24) or here (Jan 25). 
• Website: www.hotdocs.ca
• Best for: Indie music fans and anyone curious about Toronto’s music scene.

FILMharmonic Orchestra: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King In Concert (January 24–26)

Relive Middle-earth as a 250-piece orchestra and choir perform Howard Shore’s score live. Paired with the movie on a giant screen, it’s a musical encounter that feels straight out of the Shire.

• Location: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.tolive.com
• Best for: LOTR fans and music lovers.

DesignTO 2025 (January 24–February 2)

Now in its 15th year, this citywide design festival features over 100 exhibits and events, many of which are free. Plus, you can view all the window installations from the outdoors.

• Location: Multiple venues
• Admission: Check ticket prices here. 
• Website: www.designto.org
• Best for: Art and design lovers.

Chad and JT (January 24)

Wish to see Chad and JT perform live? Known for their viral stunts and Going Deep with Chad & JT podcast, they’ll have you laughing while sneaking in some real talk.

• Location: Annabels (200 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.chadandjt.com 
• Best for: Comedy fans and friends.

Ben Barnes – Where the Light Gets In (January 24)

Ben Barnes, aka Prince Caspian, enters the music world with a live performance of his debut album. With soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, this show feels personal and fresh.

• Location: The Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Ave., Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.benbarnes.komi.io 
• Best for: Fans of Ben Barnes and live music.

2025 University of Toronto New Music Festival (January 24–February 4)

This two-week festival features innovative performances and world premieres by emerging and established composers. So, expect performances that push creative boundaries.

• Location: Multiple venues
• Admission: Check ticket prices here.
• Website: www.utnmf.music.utoronto.ca
• Best for: Music enthusiasts.

Design Your Wedding Day Workshop (January 25)

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but this interactive virtual workshop makes it easy! Learn how to create a stunning mood board that reflects your wedding vision. Plus, get expert tips on budgeting, vendor selection, and stationery design. It’s a perfect opportunity to kickstart your wedding planning journey with clarity and confidence.

• Location: Online via Zoom
• Admission: Free (RSVP required)
• Website: www.vintagebash.com
• Best for: Couples starting wedding planning, DIY brides, and anyone seeking professional guidance.

Toronto Spring Festival – Chinese New Year Festival & Fireworks (January 25)

Nathan Phillips Square marks the Year of the Snake with ice skating, lion dances and live music. This event is also the first-ever Lunar New Year fireworks show in Toronto. It’s a full day of family-friendly fun with food trucks and Echo Market.

• Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Best for: Families, festival lovers, and anyone celebrating Chinese New Year.

Free Public Art Tour on Dundas West – Little Portugal Toronto (January 25)

It’s the weekend, why not spend a day at free public art, vintage shops, and galleries along Dundas West? As you check out Little Portugal, you’ll learn more about its cultural and art scene.

• Location: Multiple venues 
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.lptbia.com
• Best for: Art enthusiasts and anyone who wants to visit new neighbourhoods.

Port Union Winterfest (January 25)

This family-friendly festival brings together live entertainment, a dog show, games, food, and more. It’s a fun, relaxed way to enjoy winter with the community.

• Location: Port Union Community Recreation Centre (5450 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto)
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.portunionwinterfest.com
• Best for: Families and anyone who enjoys community events.

Martin Amini (January 25)

Martin Amini’s comedy is funny, relatable, and full of personal stories. His I’m Transcending special has been a hit, and now you can catch him live in Toronto.

• Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre (190 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.martinamini.com
• Best for: 19+, comedy fans and friends.

La Cotorrisa (January 26)

Ricardo Pérez and José Luis Slobotzky bring their Spanish-language comedy to Toronto with relatable jokes and stories. And it’s no surprise if you find yourself laughing the whole time.

• Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre (190 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.queenelizabeththeatre.ca
• Best for: Spanish speakers and comedy lovers.

The Wedding Show 2025 (January 26)

Starting or in the middle of planning a wedding? Then, you should be at this wedding show. It has vendors, cake tastings, demos, and tons of inspiration to help make your big day exactly how you want it.

• Location: Hyatt Regency Toronto (370 King St W Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.theweddingshow.ca
• Best for: Engaged couples and wedding planners.

BenTastic (January 26)

This interactive magic show is packed with laughs, tricks, and audience participation. Kids will love it, and parents might leave just as impressed.

• Location: Wychwood Theatre (76 Wychwood Ave Studio 176, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Instagram: @bentastic_magic 
• Best for: Families and kids.

ZUMONSTUDIO & Friends Closet Sale (January 26)

To end your week, shop local at this pop-up, with clothing, jewellery, and more at discounted prices. There’s even a gaming tournament featuring FIFA, NBA 2K, and TEKKEN.

• Location: 468 Queen St W, Toronto
• Admission: RSVP here.
• Website: www.zumonstudio.com
• Best for: Thrifters, gamers, and anyone supporting local vendors.

More…

• https://www.hungry416.com/things-to-do-in-toronto-this-week-january-20-26-2025
• https://www.todocanada.ca/city/toronto/events/page/4
• https://www.blogto.com/events
• https://www.todotoronto.com/posts/the-best-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-weekend-january-25th-26th-2025