When you think of the fashion of the future, a lot of metallic hues and structured shapes might come to mind. But clothing brand U3’s new shop on Ossington suggests that the future of fashion is genderless, sustainable, diverse and collaborative.
Those might all sound like buzzwords, but U3 has made it clear they’re doing more than just talking the talk. The brand started out as a consignment shop on Queen, but the shift to the Ossington area was a deliberate one. “This is more suitable for our establishment compared to Queen West, where it’s still a bit more commercial compared to a smaller community neighbourhood type of vibe,” Terri Zhang, one of the co-directors at U3, explains.
The idea for their new location at 129 Ossington Ave., which launched in March of this year, was to create a more collaborative establishment. Thus, Mirari x U3 was born.
The lime green storefront stands out among a sea of beige tones on the street, and the interior is just as eye-catching.
“We were brainstorming what we can do with the space other than just a clothing store,” Zhang says. “How do we make more of an art collective so that people can actually come in and gather, instead of just coming in to spend money?”
The shop is divided into three spaces, each a separate “room” with a separate focus. Room 1 houses the U3 clothing; Room 2 is an outdoor patio, complete with a garage that swings open, with a bar serving alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks depending on the time of day. Room 3 is a former kitchen, which the brand has turned into a showroom for art and other displays.
Zhang says the art and collaborative side (Mirari) and the fashion side (U3) are being housed in the same location for now, but future plans might see Mirari branch off into its own art center, separate from the clothing brand.
The different focuses, from art to fashion, are all tied together by a futuristic angle. “The fashion is, in general, very futuristic; we’re imagining what people would wear 20, 30 or even 50 years from now,” Zhang says.
That includes a hanging nanochip earring and a blazer adorned with 3D flower appliques, yes, but it also includes a focus on sustainable and gender-neutral fashion, with an emphasis on items from BIPOC and queer artists.
“All items are unisex. If you go to the clothing section, there is no men or women’s section,” they say. “You don’t have to go to a specific section to find a piece that works for you.”
Zhang says it was a no-brainer to ensure all the artists they work with are BIPOC and queer. “We, the owners, are BIPOC and/or queer ourselves, so we wanted to use our platform to elevate voices that haven’t been heard enough in the fashion world and art world in a broader sense,” they say.
U3 also makes a point of collaborating with local brands they love who feature upcycled and handmade items. “We also do something called the U3 remake; we remake some of the pieces from these brands in collaboration with the artists,” Zhang says.
They explain that the new storefront is constantly finding new uses for the space, such as a speakeasy and live performance event a week ago. “We still have the clothing and fashion element, and we’re adding more events and potentially artist networking events soon, to add more flavour to the art collective,” Zhang says.
Mirari x U3 is open every day from 1 p.m. to 7-8 p.m.
One of Canada’s most trusted authorities on style and fashion, Jeanne Beker has covered the industry for more than 30 years. Now watch her in her current style editor role on TSC’s Style Matters with Jeanne Beker or tune into her new podcast Beyond Style Matters, available wherever you get your podcasts.
Jeanne Beker’s guide to the cosiest cashmere in town, dedicated to making you feel like you’re wrapped up in a blanket, all day long. These sweaters are softer than a warm hug on a cold winter day. Perfect for that special person in your life.
A) Fringe details
“I love the generosity of the turtleneck, and the open sleeves are so luxurious.” Lemonwood.ca, $490
B) All about the drama
“This black one is pretty fabulous to me. It’s hard for me to resist a great big black sweater, and this one has all the fringing along the arm and the beautiful texture all throughout it. I love the generosity of the body and also of the sleeves. It’s such a dramatic, cosy look; it’s just gorgeous.” Thebay.com, $1,445
C) Striped and stylish
“I think the bold stripes are fantastic, and the colouration of the camel is so clever.” Blackgoatcashmere.com, $425
D) Winter-ready
“I’m impressed by the price point; you get a lot of style bang and a lot of beautiful quality cashmere for your buck. You’d want to live in a turtleneck like this all season. Orange is a fashion classic.” Aritzia.com, $198
E) Cropped cowl
“This saturated jewel tone is so rich and vibrant and great for the winter.” Thecashmereshop.com, $525
F) Puffed up pom-poms
“This artful, artisanal detailing makes this such a special, forever piece.” Nordstrom.ca, $795
Tim Hortons and Justin Bieber have officially launched their exclusive Timbits collection, known affectionately as “Timbiebs.”
Participating Tim Hortons restaurants across Canada and the United States are now selling a limited-edition selection of Timbiebs Timbits in Chocolate White Fudge, Sour Cream Chocolate Chip, and Birthday Cake Waffle flavours.
Justin shared with the Tims team that Timbits are his favourite item on the menu, which led to a multi-stage, iterative journey with Chef Tallis Voakes, Tim Hortons Director of Culinary Innovation, to experiment with different flavour combinations and collaborate on the recipes that guests can soon try for themselves.
“Doing a Tim Hortons collab has always been a dream of mine,” said Justin. “I grew up on Tim Hortons and it’s always been something close to my heart.”
Participating Tim Hortons restaurants are also now selling the Timbiebs merch* lineup, which was developed in collaboration with Justin and features a cozy beanie, a fanny pack, and a tote bag.
If you just can’t quit Halloween, or you need a decidedly freaky break from the holiday gush, head on over to the TIFF Bell Lightbox on Dec. 1 for the world premiere of director Guillermo Del Toro’s latest mind-bender, Nightmare Alley.
The Toronto film centre, home to the Toronto International Film Festival, is hosting the world premiere of Guillermo Del Toro’s crime thriller in conjunction with a red carpet event at Alice Tully Hall inside New York City’s Lincoln Center and a simultaneous screening at the David Geffen Theater at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles.
Following the screening, viewers will have the chance to attend a live-streamed Q&A with filmmakers and the cast.
The film, which is a remake of the 1947 Nightmare Alley featuring Tyron Power and Joan Blondell, stars Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett, and Rooney Mara.
It tells the story of Stanton Carlisle (Cooper) who swindles the rich and attempts to gain a fortune through corruption and manipulation. He latches on to a psychiatrist (Blanchette) who helps him con a dangerous tycoon, with the help of his right-hand woman Molly (Mara).
The film also stars the likes of Willem Dafoe, Ron Perlman, Mary Steenburgen, and David Strathairn.
Del Toro, who often chooses Toronto as a favourite place to film, has many strong ties to the city. The Canadian Press stated that Del Toro reportedly calls Toronto home, splitting his time between the city and L.A.
Much of his last film, The Shape of Water, also had multiple shooting locations in Toronto. Some of the locations included Massey Hall, U of T Scarborough, and parts of Ossington — to name a few. He also helped curate an exhibition of his own film memorabilia that ran at the Art Gallery of Ontario.
In addition to the world premiere of Nightmare Alley, from Dec. 3 to 19, TIFF Cinematheque will screen Guillermo del Toro Presents: Film Noirs from 20th Century Studios. This series will include select film noirs chosen by Guillermo Del Toro himself including Otto Preminger’s Fallen Angel,Moontide by Fritz Lang and Archie Mayo, Henry Hathaway’s Niagara, Samuel Fuller’s Pickup on South Street, and Jean Negulesco’s Roadhouse.
Ticket sales for Nightmare Alley to the general public began Nov. 25 and are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
A specialty yogurt bar-turned cocktail speakeasy is heading to Toronto at the start of the new year.
After spending his childhood in Asia, Andy Shi, owner of the soon-to-be-opened Kome Yogurt, says he became exposed to an impressive selection of fermented yogurt drinks and dairy products that, upon returning to Canada, were nowhere to be found in grocery stores or specialty shops.
“There’s a significant gap in the market in Canada, with only a few skews of product on shelves in grocery stores and cafes,” Shi says. “The whole idea was about bringing yogurt and variety of yogurt into the hands of consumers in Canada. Kome Yogurt seeks to bring the best of Asian-style yogurt to Canada.”
Opening the first week of January 2022 at Queen St. and McCaul St., all of the specialty yogurts are made using only 100 per cent Canadian milk and non-GMO ingredients, and are free of artificial colouring as well as artificial sweeteners. Unlike typical frozen yogurt bars in the city, Kome Yogurt’s products all come in a cup, and are meant to be sipped through a straw, like a smoothie. And, all yogurt drinks have a chewable component, thanks to natural ingredients like fruits and grains.
Kome Yogurt
Kome Yogurt’s menu will be divided into several sections, including Kome Classic Yogurts, where you’ll find staples like the Purple Kome (freshly-fermented yogurt blended with chewy purple rice); Modern Kome Yogurts, where yogurts like the Salted Egg (Singaporean steam salted egg blended with yogurt) fuse with unconventional tastes; Kome Teagurts, where fine Asian tea blends and silky yogurt mousses are fused together, and finally, the Fresh Fruit Yogurts that come loaded with in-season fruits like strawberries, mangoes, and lychee.
Kome Yogurt’s flagship Toronto store will also be home to a second concept—at the very back of the store, a speakeasy lounge will offer some of the best spirit forward cocktails the city offers. Staying true to brand, the speakeasy, named After Seven, will be serving yogurt-infused alcoholic cocktails. To enter, guests must walk through an unassuming vending machine. “The vending machine door is straight out of a snack vending machine, one with a glass panel, where we will mount a digital display behind the glass and display items pre-packaged yogurt bottles that we offer for purchase form the yogurt bar,” explains Shi.
Kome Yogurt’s speakeasy, After Seven.
Though Toronto has its fair share of bar rails and beer halls, Shi says he’s looking to bring a more refined approach to drinking culture to the city, one that’s often found in other global cities around the world. “We seek to offer guests a unique experience where the menu changes quarterly, featuring seasonal, local ingredients,” says Shi. “Gin and tonics and old fashioned’s are staples in this city, but we’re changing the ingredients. Ingredients and presentation are big in Japanese mixology, where the bartenders are proficient in the pouring and the storytelling, and that’s what we want to show.”
The Rum Raisin, for example, will use house fermented yogurt, aged rum, Korean crystal grape, and raisins, while the Bedtime Story will feature coffee infused rum, single malt whisky, milk, citrus, tamari (a Japanese sauce made from fermented soybeans), and cacao nibs. After Seven will also serve several preliminary cocktails that do not contain yogurt or dairy, but still incorporate Asian spirits and seasonal ingredients and spices. An assortment of Asian-inspired snacks and small plates will also be on offer at the speakeasy, all of which were designed to pair well with the cocktails.
Kome Yogurt will be located at 10 Stephanie St. and is set to open officially on Jan. 7, 2022.
From rustic cabins secluded in the woods to floating glamping domes, there is no shortage of last-minute glamping and camping spots in Ontario. The air is getting crisper, the days are getting shorter, and there is a fresh layer of snow on the ground. Yes, winter may be coming but don’t worry, you still have time to sneak in one last cozy getaway before the holiday festivities and stress begin. So start packing those bags and get ready to flee the city!
Overlooking the beautiful Black Creek, this rustic cottage in Fort Erie is the perfect escape for you and your best friends this fall. The cottage features six beds and can sleep up to 10 people. You can spend your time relaxing on the dock, soaking up the stunning sunsets or getting cozy by the fire. With Niagara Falls not too far away, there’s plenty of exploring up for grabs here.
Looking to get closer to the outdoors? This charming forest yurt is the place to do it. If you’re an explorer at heart, you’ll love wandering the various trails spread across this 100-acre property in Blackstock. The yurt is heated by a woodstove so, having experience lighting and maintaining a fire will be essential to your comfort here. And if fall foliage is what you’re after, you’ll find it here in abundance.
Want to go off the grid without having to travel too far? Then this charming secluded cabin near Toronto was made for you. Say goodbye to common comforts like running water and refrigerators and say hello to warm wood stoves and waterfront views. Located in Schomberg, this small cabin sleeps up to two people and allows pets.
Chic but minimalistic, this tiny cabin in Hillsburgh is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Here you can enjoy a remote, farm-like setting surrounded by peace and quiet. Inside you’ll find a double bed, a wood-burning stove, a small kitchen area, and a composting toilet. Don’t forget to pack a bottle of wine and your favourite book for this little gem.
This converted schoolhouse definitely puts the glam in glamping. Located in Prince Edward County, the schoolhouse dates all the way back to 1859. During your stay, you can explore all that the County has to offer including wineries, shops, and outdoor activities. Or choose to stay in and enjoy sleek modern furnishings, a fully stocked kitchen, and a wood barrel sauna.
This cozy cabin in Mallorytown is perfect for a little R&R. Overlooking a private pond, you can sit back, soak up the views, and relax here. There’s also an outdoor fire pit for you to toast up some ooey-gooey s’mores. Inside you’ll find just the basics; a bed, a dining table, and a comfy seating area.
Calling all coffee lovers, this one’s for you! There’s a lot to be said about the benefits of remote camping trips. But, when you combine remote camping with the convenience of an on-site coffee shop, you get the best of both worlds! Located in the small town of Essex, this 100-year-old converted barn house offers immaculate sunset views, on-site pets, and of course, access to the coffee house. We like this one a latte.
Who says tents are just for the summer? You can rest easy in this spacious glamping tent located in Algonquin Park. All meals are provided and fully prepared, so all you have to do is cook and eat. During your stay, you can explore a private beach, experience all Algonquin has to offer and even sign up for a private yoga class.
Ye-haw! Located in Rutherglen, this spacious ranch is ideal for horse lovers and experience seekers. Here you can partake in several activities including a social cookout and cattle sorting. Of course, there will be plenty of chances to ride horses along the trails as well. There’s even a saloon on-site if you want to wet your whistle.
This unique floating getaway has everything you need to feel rested and relaxed during your trip. You can let the sounds of wildlife lull you to sleep while you admire the stary sky, all from the comfort of the bed. Floating happily on Fox Creek, you’ll be just steps away from local wineries, breweries, and beaches to explore.
So, don’t let the holiday season get you down. If you want to make the most of late fall, consider one of these Ontario camping spots for a last-minute getaway. Whether you want to rest by the fire or ride horses, Ontario has you covered.
The interior of Good Neighbour in Leslieville. (Photo: @goodnbr)
If Black Friday deals haven’t already gotten you in the shopping mood, the first week of December is crunch time for finding gifts in time for the holidays. Just like last year, Torontonians are looking to support local companies and brands. And with global supply shortages plaguing all kinds of industries, it might be your best best to shop local and in-person to avoid the trouble of shipping delays.
If you’re in the Leslieville area, get all your holiday shopping done just steps from your door with our neighbourhood holiday gift guide.
For the outdoor market-goer: Perfect for the cold Canadian winters, this hand-knit infinity scarf slips on like a turtleneck and can be used in multiple ways: keep it sitting around your neck like a scarf; pull it over your head like a hood; or spread it over your shoulders for extra warmth under your jacket. This 100 per cent wool scarf comes in four colours and can be found at Any Direct Flight Fashion ($78).
For the work-at-homer: Bellerose’s Derker Pants are the solution to being comfortable while working at home without sacrificing the professional attire needed for those dreaded Zoom meetings. These stylist pants come in a deep purple colour, complete with ribbed cuffs and an elastic waist, and can be found at Good Neighbour ($249).
For the sneakerheads: Nike’s special edition Olympic Colourway Collection has limited quantities and they’re disappearing fast. Check out Culture Athletics for these limited-edition shoes like the popular Men’s Alphafly Next ($365).
For the hibernators: You really can’t have enough throw blankets and that’s what makes them the perfect holiday gift. The 50 inch by 60 inch mohair throw is the perfect comfort for cold December mornings by the fireplace with a soft polyester make and a fringe finish. This cozy throw can be found at Black Rooster Maison ($160) in a sophisticated black or subtle taupe.
For the wellness devotee: This kit is like acupuncture on the go! Bloom Balance’s ear seeds are 24K gold seeds that add a bit of glam while healing. Placed on the ear’s pressure points, these seeds will aid in the relief of stress, anxiety and physical pain. The starter kit can be purchased at Wellbe Family Wellness ($45).
For the book lover: Queen Books is home to a number of educational books that shed light on Canada’s history. One such book is Indigenous Toronto: Stories that Carry this Place ($24.95). This anthology of works from Indigenous peoples in the community defines the city as a significant cultural hub and meeting place, and makes a great gift for anyone living in Toronto this holiday season.
For the eco-conscious: If you’re looking to do good and waste less this holiday season, Urban Bulk and Refill has gift baskets full of eco-friendly household products ($90). This includes 25 all-purpose cleaner tabs, beeswax wrap, agave scrub brush, bamboo tooth brushes and more, all packaged in a brown paper bag with recyclable tissue paper.
For the foodie: Looking for the perfect gift for that foodie in your life? Gift baskets from Leslieville Cheese Market will have everything you need! These baskets include charcuterie, gourmet cheeses, crackers, chocolates, antipasto, canned seafood, preserves and more ($149.95).
For the skincare expert: This holiday set ($80) contains three best-selling skincare products from Toronto-based brand Three Ships at Health Hut, including a bio-retinol + Shorea Butter night cream, calm lavender hydrosol toner and a hydrating lip mask. A bonus hand-poured candle from local brand LOHN will be included in the kit, which is pre-wrapped in a festive box.
For the spirits lover: Reid’s Distillery offers a build-your-own pack for the gin lover on your holiday lists. This gin and tonic pack ($47.25) comes with four mini Reid’s gin bottles: two signature, one citrus and onne spiced. The pack will additionally include a four-pack of tonic water that is specially curated to go with the gin. Choose from Reid’s recommended gin or customize the gift pack for that special someone.
For the plant parent: Plants are very in right now, and what better gift is there for a plant mom than a hand-crafted ceramic pot? The Irish Design House ($82) sells them in large or small sizes with the option of a bumblebee or ladybug design. Both are adorable and are sure to brighten up any plant lover’s home!
For your bestie: BSIDE Beauty is offering a gift bundle that includes a manicure and pedicure for two people ($196). But a girl’s spa day wouldn’t be complete without a bottle of wine, which is why BSIDE has included a choice of Monet Sparkling or prosecco. Remember, this is a pack for two, so it could be the perfect gift for yourself as well!
For the indoor plant fanatic: The small size and invisible strings make these air plants convenient for any living space. Found at FERN Toronto ($25), these adorable globes are filled with sand to make a truly original plant for any collection.
For the outdoorsy child: Here’s a gift that will get your kid outside, no matter how cold it is! This durable, four foot wide peppermint tube will have your children entertained on the snowy hills for hours, while you sit back with a cup of coffee—or something stronger. Pick it up at Swag Sisters Toy Store ($34.99).
For the jewellery lover: Chunky earrings are in again, making these earrings a must-have on any fashionista’s wish list. These polymer clay earrings are custom-assembled in Toronto and use a nickel-free stainless-steel post – great even for sensitive skin! They can be found at Scout ($32) in a variety of colours.
For the bedazzling fans: It’s unfortunate that face masks are still an easy stocking stuffer, the second year into the pandemic, but here we are. But at least these masks will put a little sparkle on your face! The Rhinestone Stars Face Masks are bedazzled and shine as much as the friend you’re giving them to. They can be found in Doll Factory by Damsel ($15), the vintage-inspired women’s clothing store.
For the dessert afficionado: Craig’s Cookies offers adorable gift boxes filled with 12 cookies of your choice ($35). You can choose from a wide range of cookie flavours like classic chocolate chips, brownie, Reece’s Pieces or you can choose an assortment pack. Wrapped in a colourful box, complete with a bow, these gift boxes are perfect for anyone on your shopping list and can even be shipped across the country.
For the dog parent: You can’t forget to add your little pooch to your list of friends to shop for. This jacket, found at The Bone House ($68.99), has a hook and loop belt to fit your pet nice and snug, and includes a cut out to wrap around your dog’s harness or collar. The reversible coat is sure to keep your fur baby warm all winter long.
For the trend-setter: This latest and popular bag from Uppdoo Design Studios is a handmade tote from Italian Vechetta leather. This spacious bag can be worn in three ways and features Japanese brass hardware and a vintage finish. Pick it up at Coal Miner’s Daughter ($345).
In the last two years, many of us have taken to nature like never before. With our favourite indoor places closed and social separation keeping us apart, we explored parks, hiked ravines and discovered new forest trails.
Those same spots are home to thousands of species, hundreds of which are endangered. Of the 500 species at risk in Canada, over 50% of them live near or in cities. Every time a species winks out, it’s a sign that nature is dying.
Wildlands League is committed to preserving our parks, forests, rivers, lakes, and oceans for you and your children. We tackle irresponsible development that threatens nature and wildlife habitats across Ontario. We give voice to Canada’s nature for our children, for the climate and for the planet, with a goal of protecting 30% of Canada’s natural lands and water by 2030.
But we need your help.
With donor support, we’ve already advanced protection of marine life in the Hudson and James Bay, ensured national park protections for the Rouge in Toronto and prevented logging in half a million hectares of intact northern forests.
In Southern Ontario, the Golden Horseshoe is both an extinction hotspot and ground zero for climate impacts. That’s why increasing protection, connection and restoration will be a game changer for the future of our planet.
More than just public parks, we’re talking meadows where songbirds sing, ecological corridors where species can thrive, and protected lands where wildlife can leave paw prints in the snow, all close to where we live. This nature network will protect our ecosystems and make the largest Canadian impact to halt species extinction. More nature is our best buffer against extreme heat and flooding.
A donation to Wildlands League will help safeguard all that you love. Give a gift today at wildlandsleague.org and help us ensure the future you promised your children and grandchildren.
Union Station’s brand new Foodie Aisle is finally open.
Once home to only a handful of fast-food chains like McDonalds, Cinnabon, Jugo Juice, and Dairy Queen, Union Station’s culinary scene has intensified over the years thanks to a massive construction project that has seen the space evolve from a simple train station to a vibrant community hub in the heart of the city.
From dim sum and roti – to tacos, fried chicken, and smash burgers, the new Foodie Aisle offers a diverse selection of market-style cuisine from some of the city’s top local chefs.
Located below the GO Bay Concourse, Foodie Aisle opens a new direct route to Scotiabank arena and is the first phase of an extensive expansion project by Osmington Inc. in partnership with Beauleigh Retail Consultants that will see a mix of more than 75 retailers and food and beverage vendors come to the country’s busiest transit hub over the next few years. The Foodie Aisle sits between what will become the new Bay Retail area, which will be home to several international brands, such as Sephora, and the Fresh Market, which will offer grocery and specialty food items.
“Union is becoming a destination for food lovers,” says Lawrence Zucker, CEO of Osmington Inc. “Toronto is one of the best food cities in the world and visitors and residents will no longer have to choose convenience over quality when they pass through Union Station’s Foodie Aisle market-style concept of local eateries.”
Officially launching today (Nov. 29), Foodie Aisle features restaurants and eateries including Mean Bao, Butter Chicken Roti, Mikey’s Smashburgers, Grand Tacos Taqueria, and a second Union Chicken (there’s an existing one already in Union Station).
Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite to eat before heading out to watch the Raptors or the Leafs, have a few minutes before hopping on the UP Express to Toronto Pearson, or are simply in the neighbourhood, Union Station is the new place to be.
For more information, or to check out all of Union Station’s food offerings, visit torontounion.ca/eatshop
This week, stackt Market kick-started the holiday season with the opening of its Holiday Hills festival. Holiday Hills is a free and family-friendly event that will get you in the Christmas spirit with shopping, food, holiday-themed workshops, and live music from local artists.
The festival marks the opening of stackt’s first rooftop patio, GoldInn. Located in the South Lawn area of stackt, this patio has a speakeasy-like feel with stunning views of the CN Tower.
Holiday Hills will also include Toronto’s first Crokicurl rink. Gather your friends to book a 45-minute timeslot to play this hybrid game that combines crokinole and curling, invented by two Canadians in 2016. Players will have access to two of the heated patio tables and the Belgian Moon Brewery for snacks and drinks to keep you warm all night long. Guests are eager to give this game a try as timeslots are filling up fast!
Music will include performances by Toronto’s best up-and-coming musicians, including a performance by R&B artist Adria Kain, holiday karaoke with DJ Mel B, a soul session with Drae Ennis, and so much more.
Drag brunch and comedy shows will be ongoing throughout the five-week festival.
Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of festive workshops from acclaimed vendors. Impress everyone at your family Christmas party by taking the pie making workshop put on by New Pie Co. or a pasta making workshop with Ration Food Lab.
Then, make your own festive holiday decorations with reBLOOM’s wreath making workshop and Original Genes’ DIY Ugly Christmas Sweater contest.
With holiday activities like carolling for children and plenty of festive holiday drinks for adults, the market really is fun for the whole family!
Throughout the festival, a separate vendor market will run each week to support Toronto’s small businesses, including a few featuring all Black-owned and Asian-owned vendors. These markets will include jewelry, home goods, clothing, festive treats and more.
Holiday Hills is running until Dec. 31 at 28 Bathurst St.
As we ring in the new year, Easter Seals Ontario will be celebrating 100 years of changing the world for children with physical disabilities. On this momentous occasion, we look back on the exciting history of Easter Seals Ontario and its profound impact on the lives of thousands over the past century. Since its inception in 1922, Easter Seals Ontario has been forging the way for enhanced care and services for children with physical disabilities. Easter Seals Ontario has pioneered many essential programs and services over the past century. Notably, being the first organization to provide in-house nurses, to build fully accessible summer camps, and to build a provincial treatment center with in-patient and out-patient facilities.
The organization was also instrumental in establishing a network of children’s treatment centres throughout the province now known as Empowered Kids Ontario, creating northern medical clinics so families would not have to travel to the southern part of the province to see a specialist, and initiating public health campaigns to promote issues such as the pasteurization of milk, bike helmet safety, and the benefits of folic acid.
Easter Seals was built with grassroots support from communities across Ontario. To this day, they rely solely on the generosity of their supporters to provide funding for costly mobility and accessibility equipment, opportunities to participate in fully accessible camping and recreational programming, and scholarships that allow kids with physical disabilities to pursue their dreams of post-secondary education. A donation to Easter Seals today will help kids with physical disabilities in Ontario continue to access life-changing programs and services.
Throughout the past century, Easter Seals has survived and evolved through depression, war, peace, prosperity, economic recessions, and a global pandemic. They are more committed than ever to doing everything within their power to help remove barriers and create a more inclusive society so children and youth with physical disabilities can experience greater independence, freedom, and dignity. Celebrate with Easter Seals this holiday season. Learn more about joining Easter Seals’ century-long legacy of inclusion, accessibility, and acceptance at EasterSeals.org.
Whether you want to spend the weekend starting (or finishing) your holiday shopping, gazing at twinkling lights, taking a selfie with Santa or sipping a festive cocktail, you have your pick of fun things to do in the city this weekend – here are seven of the best events to check out.
Shop the One of a Kind Winter Show
The booth from designer Lennard Taylor at the 2019 One of a Kind Show.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect chance to start your holiday shopping, the One of a Kind Winter Show might just be the best place to start. Running until Dec. 5 at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, the annual marketplace sees local artisans of all kinds showcasing their wares – from pottery and handcrafted jewellery, to artisanal food and unique fashion finds. With 400 vendors in total, finding a gift (or at least a little something for yourself) shouldn’t be too hard.
Check out Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic
Make your way over to Village of Yorkville Park on Saturday between 5 and 7 p.m. for a free outdoor concert from Kiesza and tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season. There will be nearly 140 trees lit up along Bloor Street until the end of December if you can’t make it for the opening celebration. Be on the lookout for traditional carollers strolling around, as well as uniquely designed Urban Campfire Benches along Bloor Street West that light up when in use.
See the Cavalcade of Lights
Nathan Philips Square will once again be home to the Cavalcade of Lights Saturday through to Jan. 2. Opening night (from 3 to 11 p.m.) will feature the first lighting of Toronto’s 60-foot Christmas tree, along with musical performances. Each night following, from 5 to 11 p.m., visitors to the square will be treated to light installations inspired by cultural festivals from around the world, tunnels made from thousands of energy-efficient bulbs and glowing ice sculptures.
Bundle up for the Polar Winter Festival
Bandshell Park on the Exhibition Grounds is going to look and feel a little different than usual until Dec. 26 when the whole area turns into the Polar Winter Festival. Stroll through an abundance of holiday décor and lighting displays before perusing the vendor market, snapping a pic with the big man himself at the Santa selfie station, or playing some carnival games. There will also be a carousel and trackless train, food vendors and a licenced bar area with festive cocktails and roaring fire pits.
Have a drink at a holiday-themed bar
Don your best (or most kitschy) Christmas sweater and settle in for a drink at a holiday-themed pop-up bar. This year, Miracle and its counterpart, Sippin’ Santa, will both be popping up at Bloor and Ossington every night from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. through to Dec. 26. Expect festive décor, fun cocktails (Sippin’ Santa has a tiki theme) and lots of holiday cheer.
Experience Christmas at the Castle
Happening through to Dec. 30, Christmas at the Castle will be lighting up Casa Loma. The iconic Toronto landmark will be transformed inside and out into one of the most festive spots in the city. Expect festive décor including a 40-foot tall tree in the Great Hall, as well as a unique collection of other signature holiday trees decorated by renowned Canadian designers. Kids can visit Santa in his workshop and hang out with live holiday mascots.
Stop by the Junction for Window Wonderland
Check out a free immersive urban art walk taking place from Nov. 26 to Jan. 2 in the Junction, returning for its second consecutive year. Window Wonderland will transform the west Toronto ‘hood into an interactive, outdoor gallery featuring 20 unique augmented reality (AR) installations by 40 local and international artists. Visitors can see the artists’ creations come to life simply by pointing their phone cameras at the large-scale artwork displayed on shop windows.
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