Kick Off the Weekend with MOCA Free Friday Nights
Start your weekend in style by immersing yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Toronto. Thanks to Scotiabank, MOCA hosts Free Friday Nights every week from 5 pm to 9 pm, allowing visitors to explore cutting-edge exhibitions and engage with interactive experiences—all for free.
What Are MOCA Free Friday Nights?
MOCA Free Friday Nights is more than just an opportunity to view the museum’s art exhibitions. It’s a community-focused event that brings art to life through:
- Live performances
- Interactive installations
- Pop-up events
- Unique activations
Every Friday, MOCA transforms into a vibrant space filled with exciting, dynamic events, making it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Toronto’s contemporary art scene.
Admission and Entry
Thanks to Scotiabank’s generous sponsorship, admission is completely free. You can either book a time slot online in advance to guarantee your entry, or you can try your luck with a walk-in spot on the day. The last entry is at 8:45 p.m., so plan accordingly if you’re dropping by later in the evening.
Current Exhibitions
During Free Friday Nights, MOCA’s current exhibitions will be open for evening visits. While most of the museum is available for exploration, keep in mind that some galleries may be closed for exhibition changeovers. Nevertheless, there’s always something exciting to see, with contemporary art from both local and international artists on display.
Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just looking for something fun to do, these exhibitions offer a unique way to interact with contemporary art and explore different themes, mediums, and artistic expressions.
More Than Just Art
Free Friday Nights also give you the chance to explore MOCA’s stunning building, a piece of Toronto history in its own right. The museum is located in the iconic Tower Automotive Building, which adds an industrial-chic charm to your visit.
If all the art makes you feel peckish, stop by Forno Cultura, the Italian café located on the museum’s Ground Floor. The café stays open until 9 pm on Fridays, serving up delicious sandwiches, snacks, pastries, and hot and cold drinks. While food and beverages aren’t allowed in the galleries, you can enjoy them in the café itself or in the museum’s outdoor spaces.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), 158 Sterling Road, Toronto
- Hours: Every Friday from 5 pm to 9 pm (last entry at 8:45 pm)
- Admission: Free, courtesy of Scotiabank
Visiting Tips
- Book Ahead: If you’re planning to attend, it’s a good idea to book your free ticket in advance to ensure you get in, especially on busier nights.
- Drop-In Option: If you didn’t get a chance to book, don’t worry—MOCA welcomes walk-ins on the day of the event, space permitting.
- Food & Drink: Be sure to visit Forno Cultura on-site for some tasty treats. However, food isn’t allowed in the galleries; it is only allowed in designated cafés and outdoor areas.
MOCA Free Friday Nights offer a fantastic opportunity to explore contemporary art in a laid-back, community-driven setting. Whether you’re a regular visitor or it’s your first time, this event offers a fresh experience every week. Come for the art, stay for the ambiance, and kick off your weekend with creativity and culture.
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