Things To Do This Week (January 6 – 12) in Toronto
The holidays might be over, but January in Toronto is just getting started. This week (January 6–12) has plenty to keep you busy. And don’t worry if your New Year’s resolutions are still in progress. Maybe a fun activity or a new experience will give you the nudge you neecd. This week is about a fresh start vibe and setting the mood for the rest of the year. So, what’s on your list? Let’s check out the best things to do this week (January 6 – 12).
Note: Event details may be subject to change. Check the official website or social media platforms for the latest updates.
Cavalcade of Lights (Ongoing, Until January 7)
It’s the final week to see Toronto’s famous holiday glow. Nathan Phillips Square is lit by Toronto’s most iconic Christmas tree, with the sparkling skyline adding to the magic. Also, there are nightly ice skating and live performances. If you haven’t checked this off your holiday bucket list, now’s the time.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Family outings, romantic dates, or a fun night with friends.
Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Ongoing, Until January 12)
Looking for a family-friendly show with a mix of heart, music, and colour? Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat offers an uplifting story, catchy songs, and stunning visuals. This timeless production will leave you smiling.
- Location: Al Green Theatre – 750 Spadina Ave. (at Bloor), Toronto
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.theatre.to
- Best for: Family outings, musical lovers, or anyone seeking something uplifting.
New Vistas Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 14, 2025)
Curious about the future of art? Or the creativity from a fresh angle? New Vistas showcases new talent and innovative ideas. You’ll see bold perspectives and leave inspired. Supporting emerging artists is a bonus, too.
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Casual art lovers, deep thinkers, and those seeking fresh perspectives.
Tell Me, What’s Real? Art Exhibition (Ongoing, Until January 16)
Haven’t tried a thought-provoking art experience yet? Eva Francis-Work’s prints explore gender representation through AI-generated environments. The result is visually stunning and deeply reflective. Moreover, it challenges traditional storytelling and invites discussion.
- Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery (Ascent Gallery, Level 1, Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.toronto.ca
- Best for: Contemporary art fans, curious minds, and friends.
We’ve Got Games: A Merril Collection Exhibit (Ongoing, Until January 26)
This exhibit is like walking into the ultimate gaming time capsule. From a vintage Lord of the Rings board game to original Magic: The Gathering art, gamers, and nostalgia seekers will love the collection. Fans of gaming history will also enjoy the rare collectibles on display.
- Location: Toronto Public Library – Lillian H. Smith Branch (239 College St., Toronto)
- Admission: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca
- Best for: Gaming enthusiasts, families, and friends.
Window Wonderland (Ongoing, Until January 31)
Who says art can’t be outdoorsy? Stroll through the Junction to see 20 augmented reality (AR) window installations and murals. This outdoor gallery showcases both local and international artists. The best thing? Every display feels Insta-worthy and free to explore.
- Location: The Junction neighbourhood
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontojunction.ca
- Best for: Friends, outdoor enthusiasts, and art lovers.
Union Winter 2024 Presented by TD (Ongoing, Until February 2, 2025)
Roller skating during winter adds a unique twist to the season. Union Station’s rink offers free skate rentals, beginner lessons, and live DJ sessions. Are you skilled or learning? It doesn’t matter; the fun atmosphere is contagious.
- Location: Union Station (55 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Register here.
- Website: www.torontounion.ca
- Best for: Families, friends, and night outings.
Winter Skating at The Bentway (Ongoing, Until February 17, 2025)
Skating beneath the Gardiner Expressway offers a mix of city life and winter charm. The Bentway’s figure-eight trail is open to all skill levels. Plus, free skate rentals and upcoming events make this a winter favourite.
- Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.thebentway.ca
- Best for: Outdoorsy types, date nights, and new or skilled skaters.
Window Box Gallery at Gallery 1313 (Ongoing, Until February 26)
Gallery 1313’s Window Box Gallery presents Sunshine Tormé Johnson’s art, blending personal experiences with social critique. The pieces focus on healing and thriving, creating a meaningful and intimate exhibit.
- Location: Gallery 1313 (1313 Queen Street W, Toronto)
- Website: www.gallery1313.org
- Best for: Art enthusiasts, reflective visitors, and those seeking meaningful moments.
Visit the Little West Coast (Ongoing, Until February 28)
Want to experience a miniature trip? Little Canada’s West Coast recreates iconic landmarks with intricate detail. This indoor attraction offers a whimsical look at Canada’s natural beauty. So, prepare to shrink yourself down and have coast-to-coast fun.
- Location: 10 Dundas Street East, Toronto
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.little-canada.ca
- Best for: Families, explorers, and those who appreciate unique perspectives.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year at ROM (Ongoing, Until May 4)
How about discovering breathtaking moments in nature through award-winning photography? The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit highlights animal portraits and rare encounters. And yes, each image is backlit to enhance your viewing experience.
- Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.rom.on.ca
- Best for: Nature lovers, photography fans, and those seeking inspiration.
Nature in Brilliant Colour at ROM (Ongoing, Until August 17)
Each room in this exhibit is dedicated to a different colour, with over 200 specimens and projections. The sensory experience highlights the beauty of the natural world. The sounds, the lights, and the vibes are designed to leave you in awe of nature’s artistry.
- Location: Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen’s Park Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.rom.on.ca
- Best for: Families, creatives, or groups of friends.
Yokai Monsters: Spook Warfare (January 9)
Ready for something offbeat? Watch this 1968 Japanese fantasy horror film for a unique cinematic experience. It features Japanese spirits (Yōkai) battling a Babylonian vampire. The retro effects and imaginative storytelling add charm to the one-night-only screening.
- Location: The Japan Foundation, Toronto (2 Bloor Street East, Suite 300, Toronto)
- Admission: Free. Register here.
- Website: www.tr.jpf.go.jp
- Best for: Horror fans, retro film enthusiasts, and lovers of Japanese cinema.
Jerry Seinfeld And Jim Gaffigan (January 9–10)
Two comedy legends are teaming up again for an incredible tour. Jerry Seinfeld, master of observational humour, and Jim Gaffigan, the clean comedy genius, are back for a 10-arena tour. After their sold-out shows in 2023, they’re bringing the laughs bigger and better in 2025.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay Street, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 9) or here (Jan 10).
- Website: www.scotiabankarena.com
- Best for: Comedy fans, date nights, and anyone who needs a good laugh.
Candle Making Workshop at Artbox (January 12)
Want to mix creativity with relaxation? This workshop lets you create your own custom candle, with personalised scents and organic soy wax. Not only does soy wax burn cleaner and longer, but you also get to bring your masterpiece home. It’s perfect for lighting it up for cosy evenings.
- Location: Artbox Studio Gallery (1226 Kingston Rd, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.artboxstudiogallery.com
- Best for: DIY fans, candle lovers, and anyone needing a chill, fun activity.
Comedian CP Live in Toronto (January 10)
Catch Comedian CP at Comedy Bar Danforth for a night of sharp, witty humour. Known for roles in Empire, All Def Comedy, and Love Life, his stand-up mixes real-life reflections with laugh-out-loud moments. Special guest Mr. Lewin adds to the fun.
- Location: Comedy Bar East (2800 Danforth Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comedybar.ca
- Best for: Comedy lovers, HBO fans, and anyone who enjoys a good laugh.
A New Kind of Wilderness – The Hottest Docs (January 10–11)
Looking for something that stirs the soul? This Sundance winner is a must-watch. A New Kind of Wilderness takes you to the life of the Payne family, who are living off-grid in a Norwegian forest. But when tragedy strikes, their idyllic world is shaken. It’s a heartfelt story of resilience, love, and balancing nature and modern life.
- Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema (506 Bloor St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here (Jan 10) or here (Jan 11).
- Website: www.hotdocs.ca
- Best for: Thoughtful film lovers, nature enthusiasts, and fans of emotional storytelling.
3MFrench w/ NorthWayMusic & SBO Swampy (January 10)
Starting from freestyle sessions and now running his own label, Triple3 M, 3MFrench blends raw street anthems with melodic hooks. This is more than music; it’s a story of hustle and heart and making it big while staying true to your roots.
- Location: Lee’s Palace (529 Bloor St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Instagram: @3mfrench
- Best for: 19+, hip-hop fans, local music lovers, or groups of friends.
Dance ’til Dusk (January 11)
Ready to move? DJ Greg Clow is bringing all the goth, industrial, and post-punk beats you could ask for. Grooving to dark retro sounds or sneaking in a fun request? This is your night to let loose. Grab a drink, catch up with friends, and then decide—head home or keep the party alive elsewhere.
- Location: Ground Control (1279 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: $10 at the door
- Website: www.stainedproductions.com
- Best for: 19+, music enthusiasts, and those who love a good time.
Hoppy Cupcake Workshop (January 12)
A not-so-typical baking class? This one features cupcakes and craft beer. Here, you’ll learn how to whip up buttercream icing and try beginner-friendly piping techniques. Also, you’ll create designs that are Instagram-worthy and delicious.
- Location: Black Lab Brewing (818 Eastern Ave. Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.blacklab.beer
- Best for: Foodies, casual bakers, and anyone who loves mixing fun with creativity.
The National Franchise Show (January 11–12)
Thinking about starting your own business? This is your go-to event. Explore 165+ franchise opportunities, from well-known brands to up-and-coming ventures. With expert-led seminars on financing, legal tips, and finding your fit, you’ll leave feeling confident and ready to take the next step.
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.franchiseshowinfo.com
- Best for: Aspiring entrepreneurs, career changers, and business-minded dreamers.
York Railway Modellers Club Show – Winter 2025 (January 12)
Take a trip back to the 1950s but without the time machine. The York Railway Modellers have created a stunning HO-scale model railway that brings Ontario’s past to life. With detailed towns, vintage rolling stock, and an impressive 13 miles of track, experience nostalgia in miniature form.
- Location: York Railway Modellers Club House (5 Oakland Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: $8 Adults, $3 Children
- Website: www.yorkrailwaymodellers.ca
- Best for: Train enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for a unique outing.
Toronto Film Society Presents a Double Feature: Repeat Performance & Death Takes a Holiday (January 12)
Classic films? For one low price, enjoy Repeat Performance and Death Takes a Holiday. It features a pre-show prize draw and a 15-minute intermission to chat about the films. It’s a fun way to reminisce about Hollywood’s golden age.
- Location: Paradise Theatre (1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.paradiseonbloor.com
- Best for: Film buffs, retro cinema lovers, or friends.
Zachariah Porter: The Strip Mall Tease Tour (January 12)
If you like your comedy a little quirky, you’ll love Zachariah Porter’s show. Known for his offbeat characters, creative wigs, and catchy storytelling, his Strip Mall Tease Tour is part stand-up, part theatrical delight.
- Location: The Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thedanforth.com
- Best for: Comedy fans, character lovers, and those who enjoy something original.
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