Things to do in Toronto Nov. 17 to 26, 2023

The following is a selection of featured events from toronto.com’s self-submitting events calendar along with selected events from the city’s event listings. Link here to our own full calendar at toronto.com.

FRIDAY, NOV. 17

Toronto Firefighters Battle of the Bands Friday, Nov 17, 6 to 11 p.m., 370 Queen St. W. The TPFFA is hosting a Battle of the Bands to raise money for Movember Canada at the Legendary Horseshoe Tavern. Come out and support your firefighters in support of research in prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and PTSD. All very serious and real issues that effect all Firefighters. Last years event sold out and raised $15,000 for men’s health. More info.

West End Micro Music Festival, 1691 Bloor St. W. features CHRONOSYNTHESIS Nov. 17 & 18 @ 7:30 p.m. Fusing old with new, CHRONOSYNTHESIS creates a soundscape that exists outside of time, melding sinfonias by Linda Catlin Smith (Canadian) and Vivaldi, and featuring the world premiere of new music by Nahre Sol. Nov. 24 & 25, 7:30 p.m. ALCHEMICAL PROCESSES presents music in a state of transformation. With the metamorphic magic of alchemy as inspiration, this performance features new works and new arrangements that recontextualize the sounds and colours of the 16th and 18th centuries. More info.

Choral Kaleidoscope Friday, Nov. 17 to 19 at Jeanne Lamon Hall, Trinity-St. Paul’s Centre, 427 Bloor St. W. Tafelmusik Chamber Choir Choir Director Ivars Taurins has curated some of his favourite works in this soundscape of 17th- and 18th-century European choral music —from the breathtaking originality of Monteverdi to the luminosity of Bach. More info.

The Shorts Not Pants Film Festival is back for its 11th year in Toronto, promising an exciting showcase of short films from around the world at the Carlton Cinema, 20 Carlton St., Nov. 17 to 19. The festival this year had well over 300 submissions and the dedicated team of programmers faced the challenging task of narrowing this down to curate a final selection of 50+ exceptional films. Daily festival screenings will start at 1 p.m. and conclude at 10:30 p.m. daily, featuring engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers. More info.

Ceramic Exhibition: No Fixed Address, Homelessness Unmasked Friday, Nov. 17, 5 to 8 p.m. at Arcadia Art Gallery, 680 Queens Quay. This exhibition will contribute to the important work of Raising the Roof Canada, an organization dedicated to offering long-term solutions to homelessness in our community. For every $10.00 donation you make you participate in a raffle for getting the exhibition pieces. More info.

Buddies in Bad Times Theatre presents The Rocky Mountain Special by Tiffany Thomas. An elderly trans woman is haunted by her cringe-worthy younger self aboard the Rocky Mountain Special, a luxury coach from Calgary to Vancouver that she’s been riding for the last forty years. A guitar-driven, one woman musical tour-de-force about the quintessential Canadian urge to run from your past, The Rocky Mountain Special is a prayer for healing, a love letter to the lost kids of fragmented diasporas, and a playlist for the road-trip home. Runs Nov. 14 (preview) to Nov. 19. More info at buddiesinbadtimes.com/show/the-rocky-mountain-special/

Alumnae Theatre, 70 Berkeley Street, Canada’s oldest women-led theatre company, announces the 10th anniversary celebration of its renowned Fireworks Festival Nov. 8 to 26, featuring: The Caligula Exiles (Nov. 8-12), Smoke Ville (Nov. 15-19) and The Great Kelleys (Nov. 22-26). More info.

Same Boat Theatre presents Whale Fall Nov. 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at Red Sandcastle Theatre. Whale Fall is a one act drama about the extinction of Canada’s southern resident orca population and the journey of one woman to find the last remaining whale while struggling to hold on to the memories of her father. More info.

DanceWorks presents the world premiere of SaMel Tanz’s Championess combining boxing, contemporary, street, and Latin dance to explore notions of identity and mental health. Presented Nov. 16 to 18 at Harbourfront Centre Theatre, Championess is the first stage performance of DanceWorks’ 2023/24 season which has been programmed by the organization’s outgoing founding curator Mimi Beck. More info.

Friends of the Toronto Public Library’s annual winter holiday book sale returns with great quality books, used magazines, DVDs, CDs and classical CD sets, Nov. 16 to 18 ($2 admission on Nov. 16) at Toronto Public Library – Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge St. Prices for books start at $1, and children’s books are available from $0.50 and up. All proceeds are donated in support of library programs. This is a cash-only sale, and please remember to bring your own bags! Can’t make the sale? Don’t worry, Friends of the Toronto Public Library runs a used bookstore in the Toronto Reference Library all year long. The volunteers at BOOKEnds accept and sell donated books, CDs, DVDs and other material for $1 or less. All money raised from book sales are donated in support of library programs and services, such as the Young Voices Magazine. Follow on Facebook and Instagram at @friendstplsouth for the latest news from BOOKEnds or about upcoming book sales. More info.

Toronto’s biggest multi-arts fashion event is taking over a 20,000 square foot industrial warehouse in the Junction neighbourhood Nov. 16 to 19 at Black Creek Assembly, 131 McCormack St. With runway shows, fashion presentations, art installations, a Fashion & Beauty Boutique and The Boutique Pop-Up, a curated shop highlighting black-owned brands, Fashion Art Toronto provides an immersive and inclusive fashion experience. More info.

The 2023 Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario Canada (ICCO Canada) Unico Primo Pentola D’Oro AwardsFriday, Nov. 17, 5:30 to 11 p.m. (cocktail reception 5:30 p.m., gala dinner and award ceremony 7:30 p.m.) at Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex, 25 British Columbia Rd. The event highlights Italian cuisine’s richness, regional diversity, and fresh ingredients. It honours Ontario’s food and beverage sector leaders and fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders, from restaurants to influencers. More info.

STACKT announces the return of Toronto’s winter festival, Holiday Hills Nov. 17 to Dec. 31, taking over a full city block in downtown Toronto with immersive installations and activities, elevated food and drink zones, rotating small business holiday pop-ups and vendor markets, and a plethora of community-led events such as live music concerts, special family-centric programming, and sip and shop experiences. More info.

Beach Guild of Fine Arts Show and Sale Nov. 17 to 19 at Beach United Church (front entrance), 140 Wineva Ave. More info.

Native Earth Performing Arts presents the 36th edition of ‘Weesageechak Begins to Dance’ Nov. 6 to 19, 2023 with in person performances at Aki Studio in Toronto and free online programming. This year’s festival will gather over 22 artists from across Turtle Island to showcase contemporary Indigenous theatre and dance, plus excerpts from new work in development, music and comedy performances, book launches, an Accessibility in Indigenous Creation and Performance Panel, and more. Native Earth Performing Arts is Canada’s oldest professional Indigenous theatre company. Currently in its 41st year, Native Earth is dedicated to creating, developing and producing professional artistic expressions of the Indigenous experience in Canada. Through stage productions (theatre, dance and multi-disciplinary art), script development, apprenticeships and internships, Native Earth seeks to fulfill a community of artistic visions. More info at www.nativeearth.ca

Acclaimed dog photographer and co-founder of the “Don’t You Want Me Project” Jack Jackson is joining forces with Pet Valu in Leslieville, 851 Queen St. E., to present a captivating photo and storytelling exhibition in honour of Trans Awareness Week. The event, taking place from Nov. 13 to 20, showcases the remarkable bond between rescue dogs and 2SLGBTQ individuals, through stunning photography and powerful narratives. The week-long exhibition raises awareness of some of the issues that queer and trans people might face alongside celebrating the power of love to change lives. As part of the event, Jackson will be present at Pet Valu Leslieville on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon, engaging with customers and discussing the project.

For more events for Friday, Nov. 17, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

SATURDAY, NOV. 18

Handmade Art and Fine Craft Sale – Fall 2023 Saturday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Neilson Park Creative Centre, 56 Neilson Dr. in Etobicoke. Support local artists and artisans who create artwork, scarves and hats, quilted pieces, jewellery, soaps, greeting cards, pottery and more. More info.

St. Olave’s Christmas Craft Show Saturday, Nov 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Olave’s Anglican Church, 360 Windermere Ave. Enjoy unique handmade items, tasty treats and homemade chili in the bistro. More info.

SWEA Toronto’s Swedish Christmas Fair is virtual this year. Pick-up of orders in Toronto on Nov. 18-19, 2023 at 239 Scarlett Rd. (Eglinton and Jane). Pick-up times are 11 am to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov.18, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 19. No shipping is available. More info at swedishchristmasfair.ca

2nd Annual Snowflake Kisses & Warm Wishes pop-up vendor market of over 60 local businesses produced by The Mom Market Toronto West Saturday, November 18, 2023, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Evergreen Brick Works, Centre for Green Cities, 550 Bayview Ave. Free. More info.

Let’s Play Day Presented by World Vision Canada Saturday, Nov. 18, 1 to 4 p.m. at Earl Bales Park, 4169 Bathurst St. Every child deserves a chance to be childish, but they can’t if they’re hungry. Participate in an afternoon of activities, crafts, dancing, surprise giveaways and more. More info.

The SciFi and Fantasy Book Club at Toronto Public Library – Lillian H. Smith Branch, 239 College St. Each month participants will read a book from a different sub-genre such as space opera, high fantasy, cyberpunk and more. Saturday dates and books include: Nov. 18, The Deep by Rivers Solomon; Dec. 9, An Ocean of Minutes by Thea Lim. No registration is required and everyone is welcome. More info.

Beach Guild of Fine Arts Show and Sale Nov. 17 to 19 at Beach United Church (front entrance), 140 Wineva Ave. More info.

Homes for Dinner 2023 Wednesday, Nov. 18, 7 to 11 p.m. at The Globe and Mail Centre, 351 King St. E., Suite 1600. This gala event promises an unforgettable evening with all proceeds going towards supporting our city’s most complex needs populations. Renowned celebrity Chef Mark McEwan will be showcasing his skills for the evening, providing incredibly delicious food. Enjoy music, dance, and conversation while bidding on exceptional items like sport tickets and unique experiences. More info.

People, Places, Things: A Group Exhibition at Stephen Bulger Gallery, 1356 Dundas St. W., Nov. 18 to Dec. 23. The collection of photographs spanning over 150 years includes works covering a variety of genres, processes, and intent. More info.

For more events for Saturday, Nov. 18, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

SUNDAY, NOV. 19

Santa Claus kicks off a busy Toronto schedule with the Beaches Santa Claus parade this Sunday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m. The procession will get under way at 1 p.m. on Kingston Road and Victoria Park, and head west along Kingston Road, culminating in a post-parade celebration at Community Centre 55, located at 97 Main Street. Read our story here.

Food for Thought Sunday, Nov. 19, 6 to 9 p.m. at Osteria Rialto, 1006a Bloor St. W. Featuring bites by 6 incredible women chefs -Martine Bauer, Kate Chomyshyn, Rossy Earle, Emma Herrera, Charlotte Langley and Ana Carolina Thommen – each chef will be offering an appetizer comprised of affordable ingredients and will provide the recipe to promote skill building around cooking. All ticket proceeds support Sistering’s Food Outreach Program, which provides meals to women and gender-diverse people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Non-perishable food items will also be collected to be donated to Sistering’s kitchen at the event. More info.

Junction Triangle Craft Show Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Casa Da Madeira, 1621 Dupont St. Cost: $4 admission for adults or pay what you can! Kids free. A community arts initiative and cherished craft show that benefits local charities in the Junction Triangle. Fifty-plus local makers will be selling their goods; there will be cozy drinks and tasty treats, Winter Wonderland photos, and a Kids’ Craft Zone. All proceeds will be going to The Stop Community Food Centre this year. More info.

The Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF) will hold its 10th-anniversary celebration at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, located at 5183 Sheppard Ave E., Scarborough. This annual event, organized by the non-profit organization Dancing Damsels, is dedicated to promoting cultural diversity through the art of dance. The festival is scheduled to unfold over two exciting Sunday evenings on Nov. 19 and Nov. 26, 2023, from 7 to 9 p.m. More info.

Lots of Light: Spoken Word with R.I.S.E. Edutainment at Zion Schoolhouse, 1091 Finch Ave. E., Sunday Nov. 19, 2023, 2 p.m. The Zion Schoolhouse location provides a unique environment to engage with the history of education, and erasures in education. This two-hour workshop facilitated by spoken word poet, teaching artist, and copywriter Desiree Mckenzie will focus on Stories of Celebration and Community Meaning Making. More info.

Beach Guild of Fine Arts Show and Sale Nov. 17 to 19 at Beach United Church (front entrance), 140 Wineva Ave. More info.

For more events for Sunday, Nov. 19, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

MONDAY, NOV. 20

In support of the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR), and in recognition of World AIDS Day, Canadian recording artist Joey Niceforo will be joined by Sara Papini, Jackie Richardson, the Singing Out Choir, two symphony orchestras (The Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra and the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra), and will be hosted by Toronto icon Jeanne Beker, creating an unforgettable night of powerful music, emotion, and love Nov. 20, 2023, 8 to 10:30 p.m. at Roy Thomson Hall. More info.

ByBlacks Restaurant Week 2023 Fall Edition, Nov. 20-26, is a semi-annual food festival where Black-owned Canadian restaurants, caterers, pop-ups and food trucks offer a Prix Fixe (special) menu, discounted by up to 25 per cent for seven days. Find a restaurant near you and experience exceptional cuisine from Black-owned Canadian, African, Caribbean, and Fusion dining establishments. More info.

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Nov. 20 to Dec. 30 at Young People’s Theatre, 165 Front St. E. Recommended for ages 10-plus, 85-minute run time. Transport yourself to 1945 Bedford Falls, as an ensemble cast of five retells the story as a vintage radio broadcast. Watch as each actor doubles as a foley artist (someone who creates amazing sound effects), producing a playful acoustic backdrop. More info.

For more events for Monday, Nov. 20, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

TUESDAY, NOV. 21

Tafelmusik Chamber Music Series, Making Herself Heard: Music by Baroque Women, Tuesday, Nov 21, 7 to 8:15 p.m. at Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, Columbus Centre, 901 Lawrence Ave. W. More info.

NYTHP (North York Toronto Health Partners) Community Health & Information Fair Tuesday, Nov. 21, 4 to 8 p.m. at Unison Health and Community Services – Bathurst-Finch Hub, 540 Finch Ave. W. A community health and information event that offers access to cancer screening on-site (Pap tests) and referrals for breast and colon cancer screening, if eligible, information about breast, cervical and colon cancer screening programs and other local health and community services (social workers, community navigators, dieticians and food bank). All health services and referrals are free. People interested in a Pap test must bring their OHIP (Ontario Health) card. More info.

The Home Depot Canada Foundation and Raising the Roof’s Winter Warm-up pop-up will be held at Toronto’s STACKT Market Nov. 21 to 26. The pop-up will sell toques, socks, hot cocoa and Christmas trees, with all proceeds directly supporting Raising the Roof, an organization providing long-term solutions through the creation of affordable housing, employment opportunities for young people at risk of and experiencing homelessness.

For more events for Tuesday, Nov. 21, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 22

Citadel Dance Mix 2023, featuring works by Kéïta Fournier-Pelletier, Meghann Michalsky & Katherine Semchuk, and Sofía Ontiveros, Nov. 22 to 25 at Citadel + Compagnie, 304 Parliament St. This year features three works from four inquisitive emerging choreographers, demonstrating real variety and risk-taking. Audiences are invited to enjoy these radical works by some of Toronto’s very best. More info.

Don Valley Art Club Holiday Show & Sale at the Women’s Art Association of Canada, 23 Prince Arthur Ave, featuring 100 original works of art in a variety of media, subject matter, and styles Nov. 22 to Dec. 2 (in-person hours Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). The simultaneous virtual show can be accessed through a link available on our site. The online experience highlights an additional 300 pieces of art and will be accessible throughout, until the show closes. More info at donvalleyartclub.com

Billing itself as Canada’s largest selection of antique and vintage glass, 1860s to 1970s, American and Canadian made, the Antique & Vintage Glass Holiday Event runs Nov. 22 to 25 at Lawrence Park Community Church, 2180 Bayview Ave. More info.

A 20-year anniversary celebration of the Indo-Fusion band Autorickshaw Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (pre-show chat at 6:45) at Heliconian Hall (accessible entry at back of venue): traditional South Indian music, pop, jazz, folk, and funk, featuring Suba Sankaran, Dylan Bell, and Ed Hanley. More info.

Shop indoors for fresh produce, mushrooms, baked goods, jam, honey, prepared foods, freshly baked bread, and much more at Montgomery’s Inn Winter Farmers’ Market, 4709 Dundas St. W. Wednesdays, 2 to 6 p.m. The final market of 2023 will be December 20; the market will remain closed during the month of January and re-open in February 2024. Some vendors accept credit/debit. Others accept cash only. More info.

Nightmare, presented by Awkward Arts Co & Rogue Heels Co., Nov 22, 23 7 to 10 p.m. at Longboat Hall, 103 Dovercourt Rd. Follow a cast of dancers, musicians and guest performers through the Holiday Worlds of Old in this take on everyone’s favourite Halloween/Christmas crossover classic. More info.

Holiday Sip ‘n’ Shop in Support of Jordana’s Rainbows Wednesday, Nov 22, noon to 4 p.m. at The Hazelton Hotel Toronto. Drop in for a glass of wine or holiday cocktail while shopping luxe pjs, skin care, jewellry + more. More info.

Michael Tilson Thomas Conducts Mahler, Nov 22, 24 & 25 at Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. More info.

Buffy Revamped Nov. 22 to Dec. 31, various dates at Lighthouse Artspace Toronto, 1 Yonge St. Taking veteran and emerging slayers through all seven seasons of the popular TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, in 70 fang-tastic minutes as told through the eyes of the person who knows it outside in… Spike. More info.

For more events for Wednesday, Nov. 22, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

THURSDAY, NOV. 23

Touting itself as the largest craft show in North America, the One Of A Kind Winter Show runs Nov. 23 to Dec. 3 at the Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes Blvd., with more than 650 of the most talented artisans from across Canada. Ticketed event. More info.

Factory Theatre, 125 Bathurst St. is thrilled to present a powerful once in a lifetime double-bill from acclaimed, award-winning playwright Daniel MacIvor. Monster, directed by Soheil Parsa and featuring Karl Ang, will run Nov. 16 to Dec. 10, 2023 in the Studio Theatre; and Here Lies Henry, directed by Tawiah M’Carthy and featuring Damien Atkins, will run Nov. 23 to Dec. 17, 2023 in the Mainspace Theatre. More info.

Here Lies Henry, directed by Tawiah M’Carthy runs Nov. 23 to Dec. 17, 2023 in the Mainspace Theatre, 125 Bathurst St. Damien Atkins steps into the iconic role of Henry in Daniel MacIvor’s seminal one-person show Here Lies Henry about a man alone in a room with a mission to tell us something we didn’t already know. More info.

Goodbye Esther, created and performed by Emily Hughes, is a visually stunning, emotionally vibrant circus-theatre performance about what it means to let go, Nov. 23 to 26 at Artists’ Play Dance and Circus Arts, 388 Carlaw Ave. More info.

Harbourfront Centre presents the Toronto premiere of legendary Canadian choreographer Louise Lecavalier’s Stations, Nov. 23-25 at Fleck Dance Theatre. More info.

Swing Dance Classes Thursdays at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258, 305 Morrish Road, Scarborough. Classes are held on Thursdays, beginners 7-8 p.m, Intermediate/Advanced 8-9 p.m. The cost is $40 per person for a session of 5 classes. A free class is offered to all newcomers so they can see if swing is right for them. More info.

TacoTaco Open Mic Thursdays every Thursday 8 p.m. at TacoTaco, 319 Augusta Ave. More info.

Dixon Hall Music School is hosting its 45th Music For life Gala on November 23, 2023, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, 100 Front St. W. The event returns, after a brief hiatus, as a major gala fundraiser that historically has included prominent private donors who support music and the Arts in Toronto, especially when the cause benefits underserved youth who might not have access to learn a musical instrument, experience the thrill of performance, and join with other youth to play together, learn, and have fun. Since 1978, Dixon Hall Music School has taught music to young people from particularly low-income neighbourhoods in Downtown East Toronto. More info.

For more events for Thursday, Nov. 23, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

FRIDAY, NOV. 24

Toronto Botanical Garden presents the inaugural Winter Blooms Festival Nov. 24 to Dec. 17. This year, visitors can expect a wonderful indoor/outdoor holiday experience that combines the magic of the season with the wonders of nature with shopping, food, workshops, Elf School for Kids and plant-focused experiences that will engage visitors of all ages. More info.

Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market Nov. 24 to 26; and Dec. 15 to 17. Over 100 local vendors will showcase their planet-friendly and botanically themed products. Garden Shop will offer a wide selection of nature-based gifts, fresh seasonal greens, and amaryllis and paperwhite bulbs. The Toronto Master Gardeners will be offering a free Garden Advice Clinic. Recharge with post and pre-shopping noshing by visiting the onsite Food Truck or indoor TBG Bloom Cafe. Free. More info.

Illuminarium at The Distillery District is celebrating its first year at the The Distillery Winter Village by bringing a one-of-a-kind Christmas immersive titled Winter Wonderland Spectacular for people to experience the magic of holidays. The yuletide experience lights up Nov. 24, runs till Jan. 7, 2024 to coincide with Toronto’s most loved holiday market, and promises that guests will be transported into a winter wonderland castle filled with state-of-the-art interactive technology and an ever-changing dreamland of nutcrackers, jingle bells and candy canes. From Santa’s luxurious winter palace to whirling snowstorms and glowing Northern Lights, Winter Wonderland Spectacular is touted as a place of beauty, magic and wonder, inspiring us to feel the joy of the season. Tickets are on sale starting Nov. 6. More info.

Michael Tilson Thomas Conducts Mahler in TSO concert, Nov 22, 24 & 25 at Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. More info.

Same Boat Theatre presents Whale Fall Nov. 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at Red Sandcastle Theatre. Whale Fall is a one act drama about the extinction of Canada’s southern resident orca population and the journey of one woman to find the last remaining whale while struggling to hold on to the memories of her father. More info.

Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra: Pyotr’s Dream, Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, 8 p.m. at Martingrove Collegiate Institute, 50 Winterton Dr., features renowned pianist Michael Berkovsky playing Tchaikovsky plus the music of Tchaikovksy’s symphonic hero, Beethoven. More info.

Weston Winterfest returns to Weston Village Nov. 24 to 26 with free daily activities held at the Artscape Weston Commons, 34 John St., and live performances at Little Ave Memorial Park. Programming includes an indoor silent auction, holiday market, installations and kids activities at the Artscape courtyard with free hot chocolate. Vendors selling hot cider, soup, treats and more including Beavertails! Pancake breakfast Saturday morning hosted at the Weston Frontlines Centre. Guests can also enjoy exploring several illuminated ice sculptures and live musical performances. More information can be found at westonvillagebia.com/winterfestto

MOCA, 158 Sterling Rd., Friday, Nov. 24, 7 to 8 p.m., presents the third instalment of its Friday Night Performance Series featuring Katie Adams-Gossage who will present “I’ll clean out my bowl”, a new work that probes the intricate intelligence of the human body as it engages with the immediacy of the present moment. Adams-Gossage pulls from a tenderly crafted movement vocabulary in order to spontaneously generate choreography that spotlights sensitivity, impulse, essence, and agency. MOCA will be activating its Free Friday Nights (powered by Scotiabank every month on select Fridays throughout the fall 2023 exhibition season). These evenings feature free, drop-in performances by Toronto-based artists, highlighting the talents of the city through movement, sound, and art-making. More info.

Harbourfront Centre presents the Toronto premiere of legendary Canadian choreographer Louise Lecavalier’s Stations, Nov. 23-25 at Fleck Dance Theatre. More info.

For more events for Friday, Nov. 24, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

SATURDAY, NOV. 25

NeighbourLink North York’s 3rd We Love Willowdale Christmas Market is Saturday, Nov. 25 at Mel Lastman Square, including artisan market, 2-9 p.m.; Sidewalk Walking Parade on Yonge St. 5:30 p.m.; Festive Tree Lighting presented by Yonge North York BIA 6:30 p.m. At the market you’ll find: 60+ artisan vendors and small businesses; festive live entertainment; food trucks (including Tiny Tom Donuts!); family photo booth; kids activities; Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus; Cram A Cruiser Food Drive – bring a non-perishable. Organizers encourage visitors to RSVP each attendee from your group for the market and parade. General RSVP (13+) is a suggested $5 donation! You can also donate in person at the event. Funds raised through donations from the public go directly to supporting neighbours this holiday season through its food bank, senior, youth and newcomer programs. Learn more about the market and RSVP at neighbourlink.org/christmas

The City of Toronto will launch its 57th annual Cavalcade of Lights Saturday, Nov. 25 from 3 to 11 p.m. at Nathan Phillips Square with feature a lineup of free special programming including skating presentations, art installations, food vendors and live performances. Cavalcade of Lights, featuring a massive 55-foot Christmas tree, stays lit up until Jan. 7. See our story here. Visit the City of Toronto Cavalcade of Lights webpage here.

The Fourth Annual Window Wonderland transforms The Junction Into a free Outdoor Art Gallery Nov 25 to Jan 31, 2024, featuring 20 spectacular augmented reality (AR) window installations with accompanying sidewalk art and five murals, all designed by local and international artists. More info.

The Bloor-Yorkville BIA (BY BIA) and Five-time JUNO Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter Matt Dusk celebrate the holiday season with Holiday Magic, a free outdoor concert and lighting ceremony taking place on Cumberland Street and the Village of Yorkville Park, hosted by Award-winning Singer & TV Host, Keshia Chante Saturday, Nov. 25, 5 o 7 p.m. Returning for the 2023 season, Holiday Magic will also feature the annual “Flick the Switch” Lighting Ceremony with the event in support of the Canadian Foundation for Aids Research (CANFAR). More info.

Santa in The Village presented by Bloor West Village BIA Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free family fun.Come meet Santa and receive a free photo. Pets Welcome. Live entertainment, gingerbread cookie decorating, plant your very own evergreen tree, meet and greet with the Grinch, more than 20 vendors in our Artisan Marketplace to kick off your holiday shopping. Enjoy Bloor West Village for the day and all its offerings. More info.

An intense and fiery program kicks off the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra’s 50th season. Take a fateful journey through the colourful story of Stravinsky’s The Firebird and Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony Saturday, Nov. 25, 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Meridian Arts Centre, 5040 Yonge St. The latter work will also be performed side by side with the TSO in May 2024. More info.

Michael Tilson Thomas Conducts Mahler, Nov 22, 24 & 25 at Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. More info.

Harbourfront Centre presents the Toronto premiere of legendary Canadian choreographer Louise Lecavalier’s Stations, Nov. 23-25 at Fleck Dance Theatre. More info.

Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at the first-ever St. Paul’s Melodies & Market, 227 Bloor St. E., Saturday, Nov. 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (market 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; concert around 2 p.m.). Kick off the holiday season with classic sing-alongs, a festive market, and a beautifully decorated church. Free but a contribution of $20 per concert ticket is suggested, although visitors are welcome to pay what they can. All profits will be put towards supporting Toronto Star’s Santa Claus Fund. The concert features the church’s very own classical music director, Joshua Anand Slater, joined by visiting choirs and a brass band. More info.

Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Ave., Christmas Market 2023 runs Saturday, Nov. 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring a variety of local artisans on site with handmade jewellery, baked goods, jellies and jams, knitted toys, and many more festive items perfect for gift-giving as well as 300 isavoury hand-made pies – a vegetarian version with spinach, mushrooms, onions and goat cheese, and a tourtière-inspired version with spiced ground beef and pork available for purchase – frozen & ready-to-bake. More info.

St. Luke’s Christmas Market Saturday, Nov. 25, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s Church, 904 Coxwell Ave. Tea Room, Raffles, Silent Auction, Books, Bake Sale, Quilt Draw, and a visit from Father Christmas, along with numerous vendors. Start your Christmas shopping here! Vendor tables still available. More info.

Holly Berry Fair – Rosedale United Church, 159 Roxborough Dr., Saturday, Nov 25, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring Christmas shopping and more; Fran’s Deli Lunch; unique vendors; Santa’s workshop; books; handmade knitting; home baking. More info.

Church of Our Saviour’s Anglican Church Women at 1 Laurentide Dr. are having their annual Christmas Bazaar, bake sale, and poinsettia sale: lots of puzzles, books, jewellery, treasures, outdoor planters and poinsettias. More info.

1st Inclusive Market Supporting Youth with Special Needs presented by E-PAREA. Come support these talented individuals and discover one-of-a-kind treasures Saturday, Nov. 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Leaside United Church, 822 Millwood Rd. More info.

For more events for Saturday, Nov. 25, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

SUNDAY, NOV. 26

Winners & Losers: Toronto Sports Histories, an exhibition that explores the ways our city has been shaped by the games we play, runs Nov. 26 through to March 9, 2024 at 401 Richmond St. W. (closed Mondays/Tuesdays). The exhibition will explore pivotal moments in Toronto’s sports history and expose the fault lines that run through the city’s foundations. Led by Myseum of Toronto, this exhibition is co-curated by award-winning author, storyteller and historian Adam Bunch and veteran sports writer Morgan Campbell, with contributions by journalist and Anishinabek News contributor Sam Laskarkis. More info.

This Sunday Scene with Renée Hložek will combine her studies in cosmology with the celestial movements of Abdelkader Benchamma’s work Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, 2 to 3:00 p.m. at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, 231 Queens Quay W. Hložek’s research focuses on theoretical cosmology and statistical methods in cosmology. Intersecting science and art, this will be an engaging talk that will take audiences to the edges of the universe. Free but reservations required. More info.

Queer in the City Sunday, Nov. 26, noon to 9 p.m. at Junto Studio, 915 Dupont St. Take in a day of queer art and expression. See beautiful art, make origami moths and enjoy an open mic night. More info.

For more events for Sunday, Nov. 26, including a comprehensive lineup of live music, click our toronto.com events calendar page here.

ONGOING…

Disney Animation: Immersive Experience at Lighthouse ArtSpace Toronto, 1 Yonge Street, extended to Jan. 7, is an innovative celebration that takes you inside the greatest films of Walt Disney Animation Studios, from their vetxry earliest, groundbreaking features to the beloved hit movies of today. More info.

Letters From Max, a ritual runs Nov. 15 to Dec. 3, 2023, Franco Boni Theatre, 1115 Queen St. W. A deeply moving portrait of a friendship, and an unforgettable exploration of love, art, mortality, and the afterlife. More info.

Jr. Forest Explorers at Downsview Park (usually second and fourth Mondays), 10 a.m. for 90m to 1hr. A nature program for toddlers and their guardians. Upcoming themes: Free but registration required for each session. More info.

Nature Connection at Downsview Park (usually second and fourth Sundays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted). Each nature-themed session will get you exploring the natural world that makes Downsview Park unique. Each program is 90 minutes; all ages are welcome but those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult; activities will be flexible and reflective of the participants’ interests; pets are not permitted at this program (service animals are always welcome). More info.

Rouge National Urban Park guided walks: discover the park’s natural, cultural and agricultural stories with friendly and knowledgeable Parks Canada volunteer leaders and staff on most weekend days. Visit park website for information on theme, age suitability, difficulty of the walks.

Divina Dali Toronto features 110 rare masterpieces from the private collection of Dali’s archivist extended to Dec. 17 at Brookfield Place, 181 Bay St. Visitors will embark on a captivating journey through the universes of the Inferno, Purgatory, and Paradise. The carefully curated music and theatrical lighting effects are the backdrop for these original artworks and will transport you into a world of wonder, where the profound paintings will leave a lasting impression. More info at divinadali.com

A Peter Rabbit Tale presented by T.Y.T. Theatre through to Nov. 19 at Wychwood Theatre, 76 Wychwood Ave. #176. RUNTIME: Recommended for ages: 3 to 7, run time 40 minutes. More info.

The Isabella Street Séance runs through to Nov. 25, various dates, at 640 Church St. More info.

Every year ImagineNATIVE Film Festival collaborates with established and local artist-run galleries in the downtown Toronto area to present national and international exhibitions featuring Indigenous artists who continue to push the boundaries and expectations of what Indigenous storytelling is. This year, the festival has partnered with the Art Museum at the University of Toronto and their current exhibition, The Children Have to Hear Another Story by Alanis Obomsawin. Running through to Nov. 25, this international travelling retrospective showcases the work of the artist’s decades-long career and highlights the work she has done to amplify the voices of Indigenous communities that have historically been silenced. Art Museum at the University of Toronto (in University College), 15 King’s College Circle (closed Sundays/Mondays). More info.

Towards Home, an exhibition exploring the concept of home from the perspectives of Arctic Indigenous designers, opens Oct. 25 at the Daniels Architecture and Design Gallery, running until March 22, 2024. The exhibition showcases installations by Indigenous designers and artists that explore how Arctic Indigenous communities relate to land and create empowered spaces of belonging. The exhibition is an important first step towards welcoming and understanding Indigenous design in the canon of Architecture. More info.

Toronto-based artist Bryan Espiritu returns with his first solo exhibition in over 12 years with Passage, Oct. 27 to Dec. 21 at Cultural Goods Gallery, 1444 Dupont St., Unit 15. Passage is an amalgamation of Espiritu’s original poetry and paintings that delve deep into the intricate channels between the rational adult mind and inner child, exploring how each attempts to process, rationalize, and recollect experiences of trauma, pain, and isolation. More info.

Artist James Kirkpatrick Blurs the line between human and robot In his latest exhibition. ‘They Were Never Robots’ runs from Oct. 28 to Dec. 23 at the James Rottman Fine Art Gallery in Toronto, Ontario. More info.

Bryan Espiritu returns to his roots, opening up his first fine art exhibition in 12 years with a show titled Passages which will open Friday, Oct. 27 at Cultural Goods Gallery and remain open until Dec. 21. More info.

Scarborough Music Theatre presents Xanadu Nov. 2 to 18; Scarborough Players present A Christmas Carol Dec. 1 to 16. Scarborough Theatre Guild presents Death of a Salesman Jan. 12 to 27, 2024. All productions performed at Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Rd. Info on the theatre and the production companies at theatrescarborough.com.

The innovative and evocative immersive public art installation – “Space for Grief” – which aims to destigmatize expressions of grief, is coming back to engage audiences at Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave., Nov. 4 to 17, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. “Space for Grief” launched as a nine-day experimental public art experience this past spring at Toronto Reference Library. More info at spaceforgrief.com.

Etobicoke’s Famous People Players theatre group’s new show, ‘Winter Wonderland’ runs Nov. 9 to Jan. 6. A Holiday glow in the dark musical that promises to enchant, the young at heart. The experience of Famous PEOPLE Players includes an exceptional performance in the dining room. More info at famouspeopleplayers.com

Bau-Xi Gallery at its new flagship location in Toronto at 1384 Dufferin Street, presents through to Nov. 29 exhibitions by Canadian artists Nicole Katsuras with All the Colours of the Moon; and also by David T. Alexander with Less Trodden Lands Curate my Point of View.

Crow’s Theatre, 345 Carlaw Avenue (at Dundas Street East), extends Bad Roads by Ukraine’s Natal’ya Vorozhbit’s and directed by Andrew Kushnir on stage until Dec. 3. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit crowstheatre.com.

The Lehman Trilogy presented by Canadian Stage at Bluma Appel Theatre, 27 Front St. E. Nov. 14 to Dec. 2. Featuring a cast of three playing the Lehman brothers, their sons and grandsons in an extraordinary feat of storytelling told in three parts on a single evening. More info.

(UPCOMING)

Holiday Fair in the Square, offering an abundance of holiday delights for the entire family (and their pets), runs Dec. 1 to 23 at Mel Lastman Square. It features: 65-plus artisans and their unique creations; photo ops for humans and furry friends; Polar Point Bar serving up delicious holiday drinks; rides and games: This event raises essential funds for Epilepsy Toronto and helps to support the 1 in 100 people living with epilepsy in our community. More info at fairinthesquare.ca

From Nov. 21-26 (Tuesday-Friday, 4 to 10 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday, noon to 10 p.m., The Home Depot Canada Foundation and Raising the Roof will be hosting a Winter Warm-up pop-up at Toronto’s STACKT Market featuring toques ($15) and socks ($15) along with hot cocoa ($5) and also hand-pick a festive tree ($30) for the holiday season ahead, with all proceeds donated to Raising the Roof, through The Home Depot Canada Foundation, to help Canadian youth at risk-of or experiencing homelessness. For those that can’t get to this market, the annual Home Depot Canada Foundation and Raising the Rooftoque campaign, available both in-store and online, runs from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31.

Looking for more things to do? Check out our events calendar.

Although we endeavour to provide the most accurate description of events listing and venues, we are not responsible or liable for errors and omissions in the event description, location or intended audience. If necessary, please contact the event organizer for additional information.

Daily News

Things to do in Toronto Nov. 17 to 26, 2023

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