Celebrate the first full week of May in Toronto with all things fresh and floral. This week’s Best Bets brings you a number of happenings to attend to welcome a new month! This is a time for new beginnings so step outside and pick some flowers with these events.
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Festival of Bizarre Toronto History
Toronto’s past is filled with a chilling history that spans across decades. Over the weekend there will be several strange walking tours for all your interests. On the festival’s opening night, you can dive into the most shocking murders in the city’s history by three authors. In other interests, you can learn all about Toronto’s wackiest inventions and oddball schemes from a trio of history experts. There are a number of events to attend, so tune in to see what interests you! More info.
When: May 6-12
Where: Various Toronto locations
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Shoulder Pads to Stilettos: How the 1980s Impacted Fashion and Culture
Get transported back to the 1980s with this exhibition at the Bata Shoe Museum on fashion, culture, film, and television. This panel talk presented by the museum will share insights on the cultural significance of this dynamic era, and will be moderated by Nathalie Atkinson. All galleries will be open for viewing during this event with drinks and snacks available for purchase. More info.
When: May 8
Where: Bata Shoe Museum
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Fleurs De Villes Artiste
Take a walk through the fresh floral trail in the Bloor-Yorkville area created by Toronto’s favourite florists. Just in time for Mother’s Day, there will be over 35 floral installations including floral mannequins inspired by the vibrant art scene. There will be a number of floral refreshments and live music along the trail. This experience will be one for your socials with floral workshops and markets from local florists. Installations will be open to the public from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily. More info.
When: May 8-12
Where: Bloor-Yorkville
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INLAND Spring Popup
Grab your friends and shop from nearly 50 Canadian collections at the INLAND spring pop up at the Toronto Eaton Centre. Attendees can discover, meet, and shop from sustainable collections and empower local voices. This curated retail platform thoughtfully designs and crafts accessories, garments, and jewelry to move away from fast fashion. Come in and support local artists to feel great about your everyday purchases. More info.
When: May 9-12
Where: CF Toronto Eaton Centre
Both Sides Now
Celebrate one of Canada’s greatest artists, Joni Mitchell, with seven singers performing brand new arrangements of her best pieces. From her prolific career in folk to jazz experimentations, this performance will celebrate all her efforts. This is your chance to experience Art of Time Ensemble’s Coda concert season as they say goodbyes with three final shows. More info.
When: May 9-11
Where: Harbourfront Centre Theatre
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Outside Looking In Annual Showcase
Tune in for Canada’s largest Indigenous performance this week from Nimkii & The Niniis, STOik, Plex, Jah’kota, Semiah Smith and much more! The OLI Annual Showcase is Outside Looking In’s flagship event with the opportunity for young Indigenous leaders to share their culture through the transformative art of dance. Don’t forget to grab your tickets to see a night of talent! More info.
When: May 10
Where: Meridian Hall
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Toronto Comic Arts Festival
Make a stop at the Toronto Reference Library for the free Toronto Comic Arts Festival this weekend! This event will promote the breadth and diversity of comics in all their glory. There will be a number of creatives across Canada to share issues, ideas, and inspirations behind their works. This is a great opportunity to meet local artists and get more involved in the world of comics! More info.
When: May 11-12
Where: Toronto Reference Library
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Toronto Flower Market
The Toronto Flower Market returns for Mother’s Day weekend! Attendees can come by and support Ontario-grown flowers & plants to connect florists with the city. The market has cultivated a passionate community of florists who have transformed the city into a fauna experience. This is the perfect opportunity to put on your best outfits, grab an iced drink and walk around the city with a beautiful bouquet. More info.
When: May 11
Where: CAMH, 1001 Queen St West