Looking for an activity in the city to brighten your week? From clothing swaps, to live music and comedy, to a Mamma Mia! Sing-Along, here are our top picks for events in Toronto, with many free and low-cost options. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Spoken Lives

Get inspired as five women share their stories of new beginnings and what they learned along the way. At this live speakers series, Amanda Cupido, Colleen Tripp, Diana Heimberg, Ellen Martin, and Colleen Higgs will share their stories of career breakthroughs, moving to a new continent, and more of life’s big transitions. More info. 

When: January 15

Where: Carrot Common

 

 
 
 
 
 
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TD Music Celebrates Lunar New Year

With Lunar New Year quickly approaching, celebrate with these free performances at Union Station! Toronto indie-pop artist MICO will headline the event and local band Tiger Balme is also slated to perform. More info.

When: January 16

Where: Union Station

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Your Tomorrow

Toronto documentary filmmaker Ali Weinstein captures the fight to save Ontario Place amid redevelopment plans. Your Tomorrow follows an eccentric and lovable group of characters who use and care for the waterfront park in its final days as a public space. Don’t miss the Q&A with Ali and the film’s participants on January 16. More info. 

When: January 16, 18

Where: Revue Cinema

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Maker Friday: The Culture

Unleash your creativity, connect with other art lovers, and explore the intersection of art and fashion at this free pop-up art-making event. This month’s edition is inspired by the AGO’s new exhibit  The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century. Participants can design and customize their own sneaker laces, transforming an everyday accessory into a reflection of their personal style. More info. 

When: January 17

Where: AGO

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Clothing & Fabric Swap

Donate your preloved items and shop for something new to you at The Good Swap’s monthly clothing exchange. This month’s event is in partnership with the Textile Museum of Canada. Entry to the swap is free with museum admission, and visitors can also check out TMC’s garment mending station. Kick off the new year by refreshing your wardrobe sustainably! More info. 

When: January 18

Where: Textile Museum of Canada

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Jamaica in January

Don’t let the cold weather get you down—feel the heat at Jamaica in January! Indulge in delicious Jamaican food at the mouthwatering marketplace, enjoy live demos and tastings, watch a performance from award-winning folklorist Miss Tania Lou, and take part in free games, activities, and giveaways all day long. More info. 

When: January 18

Where: stackt market

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Firecracker Department Comedy Café

Get ready to laugh! Hosted by Naomi Snieckus and Stephanie McLarty, the Firecracker Department’s Comedy Café will feature a hilarious lineup of women and non-binary comedians. Laugh, relax, and connect with the Firecracker community. Proceeds will be donated to CCF in aid of those affected by the California wildfires. More info.

When: January 19

Where: The Assembly Theatre

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Art of Crochet & Jazz

Enjoy the relaxing art of crochet alongside the soothing sounds of live jazz music at this creative evening hosted by Legin Knits. Beginners are welcome (an expert crochet instructor will guide you through) and all materials will be provided. More info. 

When: January 20

Where: The Drake Hotel

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Blue Monday: Mamma Mia! Sing-Along

Beat the mid-winter blues by belting out your favourite ABBA tunes at this sing-along screening of Mamma Mia. Put on your best 70s looks and settle in for the ultimate feel-good watch this Blue Monday. Take a chance on this fun night out! More info.

When: January 20

Where: Fox Theatre