As the weather continues to slowly warm up and we switch gears from winter to spring, the city comes more alive, something reflected in the array of events and activities on offer. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, there are plenty of events covering a variety of interests across Toronto – and here are six of your best bets.
Attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
On Sunday at noon, don some green gear and celebrate all things Irish when the St. Patrick’s Day Parade rolls into town. The fun starts on the corner of St. George and Bloor Street West (near St. George subway station) and heads east on Bloor Street, turning south on Yonge Street and west on Queen Street, finishing up at Nathan Phillips Square.
Sample some craft beers
Bundle up and get ready to sample some beers from over 40 breweries this Saturday at the Winter Craft Beer Festival outside Steam Whistle Brewing in Roundhouse Park. In addition to a wide array of beers to try, you can also expect campfires and marshmallows, a photo station, DJ and dance party, several food trucks, games and more.
Check out Toronto Comicon
Any fans of comics, sci-fi, horror, cosplay, anime and gaming will want to make their way to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre this weekend for Toronto Comicon. Celebrities, voice actors and comic creators will be on hand to sign autographs and take photos with fans. In addition, there will be panels, workshops and seminars, as well as lots of costumed fun to be had throughout the three-day event.
Celebrate Persian New Year
This Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. you can celebrate the Persian New Year with New Year, New Bloom at Aga Khan Park. The festivities are set to include live music, exhibitions, activities, refreshments, a scavenger hunt and more. While you’re there, make time to visit the Silk Road: A Living History photo exhibition also taking place at the park.
Watch a Leonard Cohen documentary
Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema will be showing a special re-release of the 1965 film, Ladies and Gentleman, Mr. Leonard Cohen. You can catch the intimate black-and-white portrait of Cohen on Sunday either at the theatre itself, or you can stream it online from home.
De-stress with some forest bathing
Forest bathing is the practice of connecting with nature as a way to de-stress and recharge. Whether you’re in need of some nature-focused relaxation or you’re just looking for a unique outdoor activity, the Toronto Botanical Garden is hosting its very own forest bathing session on Saturday. From 1 to 4 p.m. you can join Certified Forest Therapy Guide Emma Rooney on a guided walk through the gardens that ends with a seasonal tea.