Are you ready for the long weekend? Plan out 3 (or more!) days of fun with our Best Bets this week, covering all the hottest happenings in Toronto.
From swoon-worthy Valentine’s Day events, to all-ages Family Day fun, to an experimental theatre festival and an illuminating public art display, find an event that grabs you this week.
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Valentine’s Day Events: Comedy, Dining, Films, Workshops & More
Love is in the air this week! Whether you’re in the mood to swoon, laugh, or cry this Valentine’s Day, we have you covered. With events happening all week long, from chill meetups to glamorous nights out to creative couple’s activities, there is bound to be something you’ll love! Check out our list of 20 ways to spend Valentine’s Day in Toronto.
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Family Day Events: Arcadia Earth, The Darkest Dark, Kidapalooza & More
Looking for ways to spend the long weekend with family? There are plenty of events to choose from, including an earth-inspired Fun Fest, an award-winning stage show inspired by Chris Hadfield, and special events at multiple Toronto museums. See our Family Day list for 10 all-ages activities.
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Black History Month Events: Toronto Black Film Festival, All-Black Burlesque & More
The second week of February is full of events to mark Black History Month. Highlights include a celebration of Black storytelling at the Toronto Black Film Festival (February 12-17), and Black Tease: Excellence (February 15) an all-Black burlesque and drag show at Glad Day Bookshop. See our full list for even more BHM events.
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Sweet City Fest
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the ultimate celebration of all things sweet. With live music and entertainment, chocolate-making workshops, local vendor markets, and IG-worthy installations, Sweet City Fest is the place to be for dessert lovers. Don’t miss the Valentine’s Day and Family Day specials this week! More info.
When: February 11-23
Where: stackt market
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The Rhubarb! Festival
Known for showcasing raw, unhinged, eclectic, and adventurous performance art, The Rhubarb! Festival returns this week with 13 days of experimental new work. Described as “intentional, well-crafted chaos”, don’t miss Canada’s longest-running genre-bending live arts festival. More info.
When: February 12-16
Where: Buddies in Bad Times Theatre
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Art n’ Soul TO
Described as MTV Unplugged with “an artful twist” this event merges live music, art, and storytelling for a unique creative experience. Enjoy curated cocktails as a painter interprets live music, resulting in a beautiful creation at the end of the night. Tickets are available by donation, which will support local women-focused charities. More info.
When: February 14
Where: W Toronto
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7 Beats Per Minute
During a world record attempt in 2018, freediving champion Jessea Lu blacked out, leaving her lifeless for 4 minutes. In this documentary from acclaimed director Yuqi Kang, Lu revisits the site of her near-death experience in an attempt to face her trauma and find her way back. More info.
When: February 14-16
Where: Hot Docs Cinema
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ILLUMINITE
Brighten up your winter by exploring these downtown light displays! ILLUMINITE—an interactive celebration of light, art, and community—will bring 5 captivating light installations to the Downtown Yonge area. This year’s theme, Making Connections, shines a light on the unifying power of art. More info.
When: February 14-March 2
Where: Downtown Yonge- various locations
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Winter Stations
The lifeguard stations at Woodbine Beach are receiving a vibrant makeover. Artists from around the world have submitted their most creative designs to elevate Toronto’s waterfront this winter, all under this year’s theme: Dawn. The winners have been chosen, and their creations will be installed on the beach, available for the public to view. More info.
When: February 17-March 30
Where: Woodbine Beach