May the fourth be with you
Jedi masters and Sith lords will unite on May 4, otherwise known as Intergalactic Star Wars Day. No, it's not a tremor in the Force — they'll be teaming up to support young Padawans and the SickKids Hospital Foundation at the Toronto Underground Cinema. Chad Vader and his gang will be there to sign autographs and talk laser checkout systems. Of course, no Star Wars gathering is complete without a costume contest, further evidence that all hope is not lost with younger generations. Major cool points for tots in Ewok costumes (we don't know why the furry critters are always given such a bad rap — they were vital to the rebellion, after all).
One tequila, two tequila, three tequila…
You won't want to hit the floor for this one. The Tequila & More Show at the Metro Convention Centre this weekend is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: an opportunity to learn about and sample spirits derived from the blue agave plant. Thirsty Torontonians will be able to taste resposado, anejo, joven abocado and more, which we expect will taste just as delicious as they sound rolling off the tongue. Also in attendance: the Liquid Chef Junior Merino, who will no doubt be mixing up a fiesta storm.
Rock.Paper.Sistahz
B.Current's Rock.Paper.Sistahz festival is an annual celebration of female artists of colour. This year marks its 10th anniversary, which means the art, dance, music, theatre and spoken word showcase will also feature a fashion show, Soul Train tribute and dance party. The empowering festival runs until May 11, and kicks off this Friday night at Artscape Wychwood Barns with the Little Dresses for Africa fashion show, and an improv performance. The best part? It's pay-what-you-can, but the $10 suggested donation will be well-worth it.
Herbal essences
We're still hazy from a few weeks ago, and Toronto's streets won't be getting any clearer this Saturday. The 14th Annual Toronto Global Marijuana March is expected to have some 20,000 cannabis supporters walking the streets of Toronto to celebrate granola culture. Toronto is just one of more than 100 cities participating worldwide, organized by The Herb, who emphasizes that the event will remain safe, clean and peaceful. The march down Yonge Street starts on Charles Street, near Queen's Park, and begins at high noon. How fitting.
Vintage vinyl
Sunday morning, Gladstone Hotel will be hosting Flipside — the DJ & Collectors Vintage Record Sale. If you didn't get your vinyl fix on International Record Store Day, now is your chance to score some indie goodies on the cheap. With more than 20,000 records, be prepared to dig through piles upon piles of disco, soul, funk, psychedelic rock and very rare tuneage. Bonus: every Sunday, the Gladstone's Melody Bar also hosts a family-friendly brunch with local folk musicians. Bacon and bluegrass, anyone?