BBQ in Toronto isn't just going down at your typical smokehouse. This is a list of unlikely sources for slow-smoked favourites: upscale restaurants, gas stations, sports bars and sandwich shops, and other places where BBQ is hardly the raison d'etre - though it just happens to be where their menus excel.

Here are my picks for 10 restaurants that do BBQ in Toronto that you might not know about.

Carbon Bar
The whole menu benefits from the wood-fired pit at this swanky Corktown bar, where you'll find burgers dressed with oak-smoked bacon, and pit-fired pork nestled into tacos. Order a la carte options like dry rubbed pork ribs ($19) or beef brisket ($19), or have them both on a Pit Master Platter ($27/person) with the addition of buttermilk fried chicken and pickles.

Universal Grill
This well-kept Hillcrest Village diner turned bistro is home to some unexpectedly good ribs. Opt for the saucy baby backs ($25) or spicy dry-rubbed ribs ($25) - both are served with yam fries on the side and will have you rolling up your sleeves to dig in.

Rally Sports Bar
Thirteen draught beers and the game in view from every angle might be reason enough to love this spot, but it's the menu devoted to slow-smoked, wood-fried meats that makes this sports bar a winning choice. Challenging the status quo of everyday pub grub, this bar does smoked wings ($12), spare ribs ($14), and saucy brisket ($13) and pulled pork sandwiches ($12).

Two Bite Saloon
Specializing in sliders, this Bloorcourt saloon offers the option to mix and match mini-sandwiches ($10/3) piled with pulled pork, Carolina mustard-sauced brisket and even smoked, fried tofu. Also on offer: smoked ribs ($17) and a smoked chicken Southwest salad ($13), plus essential soul food sides ($4-$7) like hush puppies, collard greens, cornbread muffins and buttermilk slaw.

Indie Ale House
This Junction spot is a brewpub first and foremost, though it's earned a solid reputation for house-smoked pulled pork that makes its way into dishes like the mac 'n' cheese, "Three Little Pigs pizza" and even spring rolls. Wednesday evenings (from 5pm on) are devoted to BBQ, with an ever-changing selection of meaty delicacies coming from the smoker.

Leslieville Pumps
It might look like just a gas station but locals know that this unassuming spot is home to some superbly tasty slow-smoked sandwiches. Best bets include the tender hickory smoked chicken ($7.75) and the crispy onion-topped beef brisket ($7.75) loaded onto a soft kaiser.

Locus 144
This Liberty Village lounge self-proclaims it's a southern Italian joint, though the menu, featuring smoked wings ($13), ribs ($19), and sandwiches ($12) stacked with pulled pork and smoked brisket, reveals an affinity for another kind of southern cuisine.

Aft Kitchen & Bar
At this Riverside restaurant and bar you'll find smoke-infused fare like chicken wings and ribs listed as menu staples. On weekends the kitchen embraces Southern specialties and goes all-out smokehouse by offering Texas-style brisket ($15), side ribs ($19), country sausage ($12), pulled pork ($15) and BBQ chicken ($16) with a choice of any two sides like coleslaw, roasted potato salad and cowboy baked beans.

Valdez
At this boisterous Mexican street food spot on King West, there is a dedicated BBQ menu for the the rooftop patio, where the charcoal barbecue turns out smoked and grilled selections. Expect to find beef short ribs ($9) with chimichurri, grilled quail ($6) and swordfish ($10), plus mammoth bone-in ribeye steaks ($75).

The Hogtown Cure
This deli and cafe on Dundas West isn't known for southern-style fare like some of these others, but the smoker in the back supplies the roster of sandwiches with delicious smoke-infused flavours. The BLT, made with house-smoked bacon ($10) is not to be missed - same goes for the pulled pork ($10) and pastrami ($11.50) sandwiches.

Did I miss any? Leave your favourite little-known restaurant and cafe that serves great BBQ dishes in the comments. Photo via Carbon Bar.

Toronto is going to get two super tall Frank Gehry condo towers. City council voted this afternoon to allow construction of the pair of waterfall-inspired towers on the north side of King at Duncan, almost two years after the project was first announced.

"Today's decision by Council was obviously a necessary step in this lengthy process," Mirvish said in a press release. "While we believe today's vote was first and foremost an endorsement of our vision for the site, lead by our architect Frank Gehry, we also believe that it is a clear endorsement of the city's development process and staff's demand for consultation and collaboration among the stakeholders."

The original proposal, unveiled to much fanfare in Oct. 2012, called for three extremely tall condo towers to be erected at the expense of several heritage protected warehouses and the Princess of Wales Theatre on King Street West. David Mirvish said Frank Gehry wanted to build "three sculptures that people can live in."

The main concerns about the project in its original form centred on the potential loss of the historic buildings and the effect of the towers on the already congested King Street corridor.

In May, after several rounds of public consultation and work with Chief Planner Jennifer Keesmaat, Mirvish and Gehry unveiled a revised design that dispensed with one of the towers and re-worked the lower floors in order to keep the theatre and warehouse structures standing.

The tallest of the towers will top out at 92 floors, making it the tallest skyscraper in Canada, ahead of First Canadian Place (the CN Tower and Inco Superstack excepted.) There will also be about 2,000 residential units, space for Mirvish to display his art collection, and facilities for OCAD University. The smaller of the buildings will be about 82 storeys.

Gehry says the latest designs are meant to evoke a waterfall.

The project still needs to be granted site plan approval before construction can begin.

Are you pleased to see the project approved?

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at blogTO. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Images: Mirvish+Gehry, Projectcore Inc.

The LCBO is trying out a new look for some of its high density urban locations, the first of which has recently opened in the Beaches at 1986 Queen St. East. The new "urban concept store" is a bit like the Beer Store's Boutique location, where greater attention is paid to the design and layout of the store. It won't make the wine taste any better, but it might make wandering aimlessly reading labels a bit more enjoyable of an experience.

Key to these stores is the Vintages section, which is designed predominantly as a runway rather than the shelving systems used at most current LCBOs. Aside from the layout being prettier, this new design gives the section greater prominence. I suspect for more than a few wine buyers, the fact that the Vintages section is often tucked away at the back of the store is just a reason used to avoid it altogether. The beer section at this particular location is also larger, but what should be of more interest is the fact these stores carry a larger percentage of premium products, so the craft beer selection is better.

What do you think? Is this a better design for the LCBO?

Store design by II BY IV DESIGN / Photos by David Whittaker Photography

Sad news for Christie Pits-area vegans, gluten-free types, and eaters of all kinds: The Bickford Flexitarian, a brunch and lunch spot located in the former Linuxcaffe at Harbord and Grace, appears to have served its final sandwich. Diners report the restaurant has shut its doors, and the Bickford's website and phone number are no longer operational.

The family-run restaurant, which only opened just year ago, offered dishes meant to cater to a variety of dietary needs: banana crepes for the vegans, raw bread sandwiches for the raw foodists, chicken omelettes for the omnivores, and kale slaw for everybody. The food was a local fave, but a few other major revenue opportunities came up short; a proposed front patio never materialized, and the restaurant's liquor license took them the better part of a year to secure.

Will you miss the Bickford Flexitarian? Tell us your tales of brunches past.

Toronto just got its first food truck alley this week - now, it looks like the number is already set to double. The west side of the city is set to get its very own designated hot spot for mobile food vendors, dubbed King West Eats, with the first service set for this coming Monday.

The new alley will be set up at 7 Morrison St., near Adelaide and Brant, in a lot owned by Allied Properties. Space will be available for up to eight food trucks, seven days a week; eventually, the plan is to host lunch service set for 11am to 3:30pm, and then 4:30 to 11pm in the evenings. There's some talk service might extend to later in the evening on weekends.

Rancho Relaxo and Let's Be Frank are among the trucks set to get the ball rolling this Monday, with lunch service planned from 11am to 4pm. Other notable trucks participating include Curbalicious, Fidel Gastro's and Hogtown Smoke, just to name a few.

Full details and schedule on torontofoodtrucks.ca.

Kids activities abound in Toronto during the summer, when the splash pads are running, the parks are lush, and playgrounds are warmed by the sun. Far more than adults, children benefit from the summer season in Toronto, no longer cooped up indoors or shuttled from arena to arena for hockey or figure skating practice. But aside from the obvious things like park trips and playgrounds, how to make the most of summer with kids in Toronto?

While some of the many ideas we've put forward in our huge roundup of things to do in the city this summer will work for children, this dedicated list should help you keep the little ones entertained and, more importantly, exhausted come bedtime.

Here are the top 50 things to do with kids this summer in Toronto.

FUN AND GAMES

Go for a ride at an amusement park
With a range of rides from the tiniest tilt-a-whirls up fear-of-heights-worthy Leviathan, thrill seekers of any size can ride at Centreville's quaint cutesy coasters, working their way up to the seasonal CNE or the mighty rides of Wonderland. If you're stuck inside on a rainy day, then check out Fantasy Fair. This indoor amusement park in Rexdale has rides for the most timid toddler right up to pumped up pre-teen. Score a day pass and ride all day long for about $20.

Party by the lake
Harbourfront is one of Toronto's best kid-friendly venues, with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers overseeing an ever changing array of events, festivals, markets and cultural celebrations ensuring you and your brood not only take in the sights and sounds, but maybe learn a little something too. Weekly activities include canoeing on the Natrel Pond, DJ and dancing nights on the pier, music and movies. Be sure to check out weekend events like the China Now festival (July 11-13) or the delicious Pan American Food Festival (August 8-10) now in its second year.

Have fun at CNE
So your kids are finally at the right age for a proper intro to Toronto's favourite summer pastime - the CNE. While people watching alone should illicit more than a few inquisitive stares, there are loads of kid-friendly activities to do, not including the nostalgic midway rides like the monster Euro Slides, dancy disco Polar Express or my personal fave the Sizzler. After you run out of tickets, check out the massive Kid's World featuring live performances by your fave fear-inducing clowns, meet and greets with plus size costume characters from their fave TV shows and live theatre with Munsch productions on stage. Nothing calms wee ones down better than some animal interaction, so pop by the Better Living Centre to get hands on with piglets, chickens and other animals they're surely deep frying in the nearby Food Building.

ACTIVE PURSUITS

Go for a run
Many of Toronto's best running events include a pint-sized option so you can cheer on your kid while his or her tiny legs tackle the tricky 1km track. Most include adorable medals just for finishing, so those participant ribbons will be a distant memory when they get their hands on their shiny new hardware. Notable races include the much anticipated Zoo Run (September 20th) and older kids will dig the LED hardware for the Night Race (September 6th).

Ride a horse
Hitting the hay takes on an altogether different meaning at this Toronto green space. Located amidst the rolling hills of Sunnybrook Park, Sunnybrook Stables will teach your kid (and you) the basics of horseback riding, with ponies matched to your novice rider. Camps and classes run throughout the summer, and private and semi-private lessons ensure you won't have an audience for that gallop/trot/fall combo.

Race around the track
Is your kid the next Paul Tracy? Polson Pier has karts for rent for $2.50 a lap, and vertically challenged kids (or those under 11) can ride for free in their double seated models. Prep for the upcoming Honda Indy with a spin around the Mini Indy. With indoor and outdoor tracks, this place is a safe bet on a rainy day. Kids 5 and up can ride around with a parent, while ten year olds have the freedom to recreate MarioKart (or Grand Theft Auto) all on their own. If the thought of an enclosed area coupled with diesel fumes has you gagging, then GPK at Downsview Park is the ticket for you. With a fleet of all electric rides, you can zoom around the track without sucking on noxious fumes and coming home stinking like a school bus driver.

Navigate the lake
You can rent stand up paddle boards, canoes and kayaks, so if you're an experienced paddler, take your kids out and see Toronto like never before. Toronto Adventures has two prime locations - Humber River and Sunnyside Beach. Rentals can include lessons too, or opt for the sneaky Paddle in Concert, which lets you drift around Molson Amphitheatre, bonding with your brood over the summers best concerts. If canoes are a bit too tippy, consider tubing through the Elora Gorge, which offers nature's version of a lazy river about an hour northwest of Toronto.

Play at Toronto's newest playgrounds
Taxes were well spent in the building of Corktown Common, one of Toronto's most spectacular and interactive parks. The playground boasts a water play area, boardwalk and wetlands, public fire pit, and great slide. Not far away, Regent Park now lays claim to Toronto's newest playground. Get the kids sweaty and then head inside for a swim at the spectacular Aquatic Centre. Want more playgrounds? Here's our round-up of the best playgrounds in the city.

Go for a bike ride
Life in the fast lane may not be the best place for children, but it's important for kids to get practice time in on the wheels to get confidence for the real roads later on. Thankfully Toronto has plenty of bike paths that'll keep the little ones away from traffic while they master the art of riding in a straight line. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, you can even take them off road.

Putt for hole in one
As the saying goes..."Drive for show, putt for dough," so work on your short game with your small kids in tow. While the glow in the dark atmosphere at RINX may seem outlandish, at least it'll make golf interesting for kids. If you're closer to the maze of big box stores at 7 and 400, get lost in the massive Putting Edge, which features 18 holes of frustration weaving through time and history all under the glow of the neon night light.

Go skateboarding
Skateboarding is both a culture and an empowering sport, and kids can learn how at CJ Skateboard Park and School. They've got great instructors, camps and a ProShop for boards, helmets and pads and once the tyke's got the hang of things, try out one of the many skate parks around the city such as Cummer Skateboard park or the one in Ashbridges Bay.

Play golf with a Frisbee
While played technically with a Golf Disc and not a (trademarked) Frisbee, disc golf has been in Toronto since 1980, and it's finally gaining momentum with more than just burnt out golfers and hippies graduating from their hacky sack. With three totally free BYOD courses to play in Toronto, tire the kids out with a tournament of 18 holes at Centennial Park, ET Seton Park or the more exotic Toronto Island course. Different shots require different discs, so pack a few of different weights to make your best shot.

Play bubble soccer
Bubble soccer can be played pretty much anywhere, with aptly named Toronto-based Bubble Soccer delivering the bouncy balls to your house, park or go full throttle and rent out an indoor dome. While leagues and teams haven't quite built up the traction here as they have in the US, competitive GTA bubblers can sign up for Mississauaga's team with the National Association of Bubble Soccer. Bubbles fit anyone who is over 5 feet tall and come equipped with handles so your kid (or you) won't tumble out.

Go for a ride in Toronto's newest bike park
Sunnyside Bike Park will be open later this month, rewarding BMX enthusiasts with a challenging circuit of pumptracks, a wall ride, and jump lines all in a compact patch of land adjacent to the Gardiner expressway. Newbies to the sport can work their way up the track from beginner runs up to expert all in a family friendly environment. Designed by the guru of all bike park builders Jay Hoots, this ecologically friendly park was designed with trees fallen in last year's ice storm and dirt from around the corner from a local condo development. Phase two will introduce trails, boardwalks and seating so you can watch your kid nail that wall ride from a safe distance.

NATURE AND OUTDOORS

Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands
Quite possibly the best way to spend a day in Toronto, the Islands are home to meandering paths, beaches and restaurants, not to mention the expansive list of sports and activities to keep you on the go. Rent a bike and tool around the islands to get your bearings, then hunker down for a picnic or BBQ while the kids frolic around the grass. Centreville's rides are mostly geared to the younger set, and there's also the neighbouring Far Enough Farm.

Get lost in the woods
Toronto's got plenty of parks and green spaces, but none offer quite the escape from urban bustle as Crothers' Woods, located to the northeast of Pottery Road. A popular destination for mountain bikers, the lower trails are quieter and thus a great place to explore nature with the little ones without leaving the city. Trail maintenance and wayfinding signage has improved greatly in the last few years, so while you might want to get lost, it's actually rather difficult to do so.

Go fish!
Toronto is home to some great fishing, and while you will need a licence (kids are free) it'll pay off when you reel in that pike or even salmon. Avoid overly congested areas like the Don River, as Blinky the three eyed fish doesn't have much meat on him. Parlay the fishing fun with a canoe rental and head into marshier areas for yellow perch and sunfish. Grenadier Pond in High Park is a popular spot.

Discover Toronto's divers bird population
Tommy Thompson Park, also known as the Leslie Street Spit, is home to some of Toronto's coolest wildlife. Turning trash into treasure, the man-made peninsula was formed from development residue from the 50's construction in the downtown core and is the best place to spot some of Ontario`s finest feathered friends, with over 300 varieties making a stop through on their yearly migration. Featured free walks means you can put your wallet away for once, just bring binoculars and wear your best wellies.

Go camping in the city
Ever just want to escape the confines of your toy-strewn home and sleep under the stars? Well, you can if you know where to go. Glen Rouge Park offers space to pitch a tent at the edge of the city. The campground is on Kingston Rd. so it's just accessible enough (read: the closest TTC stop is one kilometre away). Because of its spot on the edge of town, it offers hiking trails and a sandy beach perfect for kids to explore.

Have fun in a garden
Your Treehouse TV loving tot will love seeing one of their fave characters come to life with this turtle themed park on Centre Island. The interactive park features gardens, ponds and a playground, including loads of statues kids can climb all over. Pack a bathing suit for the beach, or nearby pond-themed splash pad, complete with Franklin's fave bulrushes.

Hit the Beach
Sun bathers should flock to one of Toronto's many beaches; Sunnyside, Woodbine, Cherry and Kew beaches are all easy access spots. Most beaches have lifeguards on duty all summer long, but kids throwing sand at nearby sunbathers will still fall under your parental control. Check water conditions and make sure your beach is hoisting a blue flag before heading out. If getting wet proves too daunting, check out Toronto's urban beaches, situated right off Lake Ontario, but providing you nothing but sand and fresh lake air. Sugar Beach and HTO Park both have beautiful vistas, but no access to the water.

Smell the roses
If you haven't been to the Royal Botanical Gardens since you got dragged on a school trip, then you're definitely overdue. Dubbed Canada's Largest Botanical Garden, the stunning green space is home to more than 1100 hectares of nature reserve, including 27km of trails, canoeing, a tea house and a cafe. Closer to home, head to Edwards Gardens at Leslie and Lawrence. With bridges over charming duck-filled creeks, climbing staircases and pathways hooking up with Sunnybrook Park there's more than just blooming flowers and big hedges here. Special events are sprinkled throughout the summer, including an indoor garden themed library that hosts story hour and an organic Farmers Market every Thursday.

Hunt for butterflies
The city operates this peaceful park, and special attention has been paid to attract more butterflies (and more) to this stretch of 300 acres on Lake Ontario. Native plants co-mingle with wildflowers and prairie grasses to attract a bevy of butterflies, so time your visit right and get caught up with the mob of monarchs headed this way. Kids can learn about butterfly baiting plants to decorate your space, and there's a great waterfront trail for a bike or blade afterwards.

Hang out at a farm
The only 'working' farm in Toronto is home to pigs, cows, chickens and other delicious animals that are not for sale or slaughter. Sheltered on a few acres in Cabbagetown, Riverdale Farm is great for the under 5 set and is entirely free. The heavily shaded winding path takes you around ponds and vegetable gardens. Make sure to stop in on Tuesdays when there's a farmers' market at the entrance gates. This summer might sadly be your last chance to check out Far Enough Farm which may be forced to close its gates this year after the city pulled funding. Pucks Farm is north of the city and much larger than its urban counterparts. Pony rides, hay rides and cow milking are all daily activities.

Visit the Toronto Zoo
Bob Barker may have migrated our elephants (it's for the best) but the super cute pandas more than make up for it. The price is right for this T-dot attraction, kids under two are gratis and kids under 12 are $18. Plan to stay the full day, with interactive zoo keeper meet and greets, wide open spaces to run and a splash pad, this place is guaranteed to have even the most wild child tuckered out before you hit the 401.

Visit the other zoos
For more exotic animals, check out African Lion Safari just outside of Cambridge. You could also head the other direction towards Jungle Cat World half way top Peterborough on the 115. If highway driving isn't your thing, then stick closer to home with the convenience of the High Park Zoo. Perfect for early morning risers and the stroller set, this quaint zoo opens at 7am and is completely free. Bison, llamas and peacocks are all on site, but make a special visit to the capybara, the largest rodent in the world. Awww.

Explore High Park
High Park is Toronto's largest public park, with 399 acres of sprawling green space, complete with picnic areas, baseball diamonds, a duck and frog filled Grenadier Pond, a playground, a zoo and a restaurant. While spring ushers in the Cherry Blossoms (and over eager photographers), summer promises hordes of kids flocking to the new Adventure Playground, the castle like creation of the late Jamie Bell featuring a mega slide for bigger kids and lots of benches and shade for weary parents. While it gets pretty busy at the playground and zoo during the weekend, if you need to take a break cough up the $4.50 ($3.50 for kids) and jump on the adorable trackless train to see the splendour this park has to offer.

See the Bluffs
Kids love the majestic formations of the Scarborough Bluffs, and you can make a whole day of it, with the Bluffs playground, and wading pool, and marina to look at the boats. The beach is unsupervised but fun for everyone if you keep watch. Make sure to explore the trails that line the upper portion of the bluffs, which offer sweeping views of Lake Ontario.

Explore some caves
Getting out of town this summer is a must for most, but for those without a cottage invite, but still craving a good dose of nature and wildlife, the Scenic Caves near Blue Mountain are a good bet. With local accommodations galore, it's a pretty weekend-worthy adventure, but a day trip is still very doable. The caves are the big draw here: formed by glacial ice millions of years ago, this rugged terrain will take about 2 hours to get across, but plan for more time for awesome photo ops and views of Georgian Bay. Squeamish kids will likely be a bit put off by the giant suspension bridge, but after a good shove, there's no turning back. See how fast it takes them to cross the 420 foot bridge to the other side. Loser buys ice cream.

Hike around Toronto's best-known old quarry
Not just for weekend outings, the stunning surroundings of the Brick Works are a great place to let your kid run wild; the meandering paths lead up to some scenic views of downtown, and there's several peaceful ponds to stare at blankly as your kids get dirty chasing frogs. With educational programming about the environment, animals and how to forage, you can feel smug while secretly prepping for the zombie apocalypse. Pop into Cafe Belong if you can spare the scratch and your kid has a Top Chef-like palate. Make sure to pack the bikes, the pathways are perfect turf for taking the training wheels off.

Combine history with a hike at Todmorden Mills
Kitty corner to Evergreen Brickworks, this former paper mill is now home to a museum, and a massive 9.2 hectare wildflower preserve that winds around the hilly landscape of Don Mills. Pack a picnic from the market and hit it up on a sunny day and explore the varied habitats in a historic environment.

Get wet (and wild)
Toronto has a splashy 58 outdoor pools for use this summer, some with water slides, diving blocks and wading pools. Feel like splurging? Check out Richmond Hill's Wave Pool for a change of pace, the trip is worth it alone for the curving 160 foot long water slide. Or go full throttle and spend a day at Wild Water Kingdom in Rexdale. With a bevy of water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers, this outdoor oasis is only feels like an all-inclusive trip, except you still have to pay for your drinks at the bar (there's 3!). If your kids aren't going to make it for a full day then opt for a local splash pad. The best are usually the newest, so scope out Corktown Common or Sugar Beach to see the latest in water manipulation sprinklers.

Go on a lagoon tour
Harbour Tours Toronto has a lagoon tour sure to the delight the kids. It winds its way around the inlets and lagoons of Toronto islands where kids can spot the animals at the petting zoo and wildlife sanctuary, see the boats at the yacht clubs and witness the magical Toronto skyline. Also: boats are confined spaces, so the chasing is kept to a minimum. Just remember the lifejackets.

Go for a cruise
You don't usually get to see tall ships in the harbour here in Toronto, which is why the Tall Ship Toronto tours are so impressive, especially with the kids. Take the whole family on a beautiful sunny day and cruise around the waters like a bunch of pirates on the high seas, without the trouble of course. Find the summer schedule here.

FOOD

Get DIY with some fruit
Ontario is home to some of the country's best crops, and what's a little child labour between family? The shorter the kid, the better they can reach some of the season's early crops, like super sweet strawberries and raspberries. The growing season goes all summer long, wrapping up with apples in October, and most farms have nifty little playgrounds and chip trucks to keep the workers, er children, happy campers. Organics Farm in Markham takes the name literally, which is good for the younger set who will likely just be picking and eating. Head out to Niagara on the Lake area mid-summer for cherry, peach and apricot picking at the aptly named Cherry Avenue Farms and send the kids back to school with apples they picked at Applewood Farm (which also boasts a winery).

Learn to bake
If you're sick of your mini me going all Gordon Ramsey on you in the kitchen, turn the tables on the tiny tastemaker by enrolling them in a baking class. While Le Dolcioffers summer camps of many flavours, the tandem baking classes are a perfect portion of parenting and practicality - you learn a new baking skill while your kid (best for 6 and up) gets his or her hands dirty (and everything else) in someone else's kitchen. Most classes are good for kids, but cupcakes, pies and sweet things are usually best bets.

Hit up a street festival
PS Kensington is a great bet for kids, and happens the last Sunday of every month, but there's nearly a street festival for every neighbourhood that children can enjoy. Get them dancing at Salsa on St. Clair or Caribana, laughing with the clowns at Buskerfest, or experience new flavours at Taste of the Danforth. Check the full schedule here.

Eat some pizza
Head to Dufferin Grove Park Sundays from 12-2pm for Pizza days, where members of the community get together at the wood-fired ovens. $2.50 gets you a ball of dough, tomato sauce and cheese, and you can bring other toppings if you wish. On Tuesday nights the Brick Works also has a pizza event. Pizzeria Libretto uses the ovens and for $3.00, you get a salad and a slice and proceeds go to the Evergreen children's food program.

Learn about where food comes from at a farmers' market
While kids tend to want to grab whatever food is at their fingertips, if you can control them a little, a trip to a farmers' market is a great way to teach them about where their food comes from and let them run around for a bit. And given that many markets are hosted in or near to parks, you can kill a couple hours while getting some crucial dinner shopping done. Top picks for kids are the markets at the Wychwood Barns and the Brick Works.

ARTS AND EDUCATION

Get a new book
If you're feeling a bit flush, skip the library and treat your kid to a bookstore shopping spree at one of Toronto's best bookstores. Chapters and Mastermind offer reliable selection, but kids will love checking out a store that's dedicated to them. Mables Fables on Mount Pleasant has been in business for decades, with books for toddlers right up to high school and beyond. Ella Minnow is located in the Beaches and curates a popular Ella Minnow Maple - a collection of books all by Canadian authors. West siders can check out Another Story Bookshop which offers discounts to book clubs and stocks their shelves with books on heavier subjects like diversity and equality. Most bookstores offer story time and book readings with authors too.

See the stars at David Dunlap Observatory
If your pre-teen is dreaming of scoring a ticket on the next Virgin Galactic space flight, then make this your first mission: a York Region bus trip up to the David Dunlap Observatory. With special family nights for space cases 7 and up, head up on a clear night for your best bet at star gazing, including a tour of the observatory. This summer Jupiter, Mars and Saturn are the big draws, as is the 23 ton telescope that's impressive and daunting in its own right.

Pay a visit to the 19th century
Black Creek Pioneer Village will send your kids through a time warp, almost back to the days you had to walk to school both ways uphill. Explore the village that time forgot, with cutesy demonstrations that will have your kid either captivated or mortified by the simplicity of the "olden times." After a long day churning butter, check out the onsite brewpub and toast your parenting prowess.

Read a Story
Flash mobs are so 2008, but where flash mobs failed, Story Mobs succeed, with more than just pageantry, costumes and storytelling, but interaction and edutainment too. Stories are recreated in a public place with kid friendly books like Paper Bag Princess coming to life as part book reading, part dramatic arts and part art project. Kids and adults come dressed as their favourite characters, and take part in reading parts of the story. Events are totally free and a great way to keep your kid reading throughout the summer. Check out their site to see what book is up next.

Discover a new, favourite superhero
The Beguiling has a little brother in the form of Little Island Comics, North America's first comic shop for kids. Chock full of comics appropriate for a younger audience, boys and girls won't even notice the development of their reading skills as they get hooked on the comic form. They've got lots of special events and comic author guests too. I hear the staff are kinda nice, as well.

Get artsy and hug a tree
The Eco-Art-Fest is a new festival this year that incorporates installations, performance, visual art, and more to bring awareness to environmental issues. All events are family friendly and a great way to get kids thinking how creativity can address climate change. Based out of Todmorden Mills, there's lots of outdoor installations to explore, including one that tracks the former course of the Don River.

ENTERTAINMENT

See the circus
The World Famous Shrine Circus is in Toronto until July 27th. Kids love the circus (or are terrified by it - but that just builds character!) and this promises to be a fantastic one. The famous Winn family is set to perform the Motor Cycle High Wire Act and the death defying Wheel of Destiny! At the end of August, Cirque du Soleil makes its annual appearance here, this time with a production called Kurios.

Cheer on your favourite horse
Sure, underage gambling is frowned upon, but asking your kids which horsey name they think is cuter is only being considerate. Kids are welcome at Woodbine, just not in the casino, licensed bar areas or gambling paddocks, but that still leaves the grandstands and open areas that kids will naturally flock to. Your pint sized kiddo will love screaming his or her lungs out at the racing ponies and if all else fails, you can pretend they're a jockey and hope for the best.

Watch a movie outdoors
This will require breaking bedtime rules, but that'll just make it all the more special. You don't need to hit a drive-in to watch a movie under the stars, as people have figured ingenious ways to make a blank wall, a white sheet or a park bowl into a veritable amphitheatre. Check our comprehensive round-up for all the outdoor film screenings this summer or hit up Harbourfront for exclusively family-friendly viewing.

See a concert at the Toronto Music Garden
Free music would make anyone happy, but young ones seem to get an extra kick out of concerts in the open air, especially in the beautiful Toronto Music Garden. 7 pm most Thursdays and Sundays at 4 pm there's something playing. Don't forget sun hats and lawn chairs are a must.

Cheer on the home team
Toronto's obsession with sports shouldn't end with the Leaf's last home game, so get out there and show some support for the other guys. Jays tickets are easy enough to score on game day, while Toronto FC's mini stadium can't always accommodate last minute seats, a little future planning could secure your budding soccer star the title of #1 fan. Special events like the Rogers Cup or Honda Indy can ignite a new passion in youngsters, so maybe leave UFC cage matches until they're older. Check out the Toronto Rush for a fast-paced frisbee sport with cheap tickets at Varsity Stadium, or even cheaper, the (other) Maple Leafs at Christie Pits, which is totally free.

Thanks to Pure Leaf for sponsoring our summer adventures. For more things to do this summer, check out our Best of Summer page.

Did we miss any? Leave your picks for things to do with kids this summer int the comments.

Writing by Libby Roach, Errin Beth Langille, and Derek Flack

The best backyard patios in Toronto will keep you out of sight of the lineups of hostile would-be diners waiting for a spot inside. It's no secret that they're fantasizing about reaching over and snatching that plate of eggs benny right out from under your nose - but backyard patios give a semblance of privacy.

For rooftop (and other) patio ideas, check out our Toronto Patio Guide or download our Patio Guide app for iPhone or Android.

Here, in no particular order, are the best backyard patios in Toronto.

Fonda Lola
Fonda Lola's patio feels just like my mom's backyard. Ample shrub creatures cozy up to its edges, and the tables are intimate and well-designed. On the menu, you'll find traditional Mexican cuisine, and cocktails sweetened with maple sugar. A small plate of ceviche, a margarita or two, and a book can make for a #blessedly happy afternoon on the Fonda Lola patio.

The Cadillac Lounge
The Cadillac, in my humble opinion, is a Parkdale mainstay for getting trashily raucous and enjoying some live music (which may not always be that good, but is always highly entertaining in some way). Its back patio is huge, with lots of seating, an outdoor bar and a bit of a tree canopy. Don't come for the food, but stay for the beer and the patio.

Bairrada Churrasqueira (College St.)
The College St. location of Bairrada Churrasqueira, at Dovercourt, has a massive back patio with tons of seating. In the summer, they grill food right on the patio, with an all-day pig roast on Wednesdays (you know, if that's your thing). While the beer list isn't much, the wine list is decent, and the food is a proudly Portuguese experience.

Rock Lobster (Queen West)
More than half of Rock Lobster's seating is outside on its back patio. Pretend you're in the Maritimes, or some other lovely seaside locale, as you chow down on lobster rolls and poutine away from the eyes of passersby. The majority of the fish on offer is shipped in straight from the east coast, and the cocktails are pretty desirable, too (I highly recommend the caesar).

Allen's
Allen's pub and restaurant on the Danforth will satisfy any and all pub food hankerings, I do believe. Their burgers, chicken wings and steaks are all noteworthy, and since food always tastes better outside...yeah, you get the picture. Add to that their long-ass beer list, and virtually nothing is missing from your life. To minimize the annoyances of Toronto's typical gargantuan patio line, their patio is huge, with booths and little tables dotted throughout.

Betty's
Betty's, at King and Sherbourne, is a classic George Brown haunt. The place is a true dive, with a menu featuring dishes like poutine, nachos and veggie curry. Its patio is delightful, with colourful lanterns hung overhead and rustic wood tables, and Canadian summer (aka July) can be maximized with a list of 40-plus bottles and about 30 regular beers on tap.

Stout Irish Pub
Stout Irish Pub in Cabbagetown has a cozier backyard patio than some on this list, but the microbrews make up for it. On tap, you'll find Cameron's, Canuck Pale Ale and Wellington, accompanied by a variety of pub staples from the kitchen. The picnic tables in the back are all umbrella-shaded, which makes a rainy-day patio session totally plausible, too.

The Caledonian
The back patio at The Caledonian feels like it might easily be home to a troupe of Celtic faeries. Slim trees are rooted there, giving it a forest clearing feel, and there's something romantic about the spindly wrought-iron furniture. In short, this College and Ossington spot is an enchanted place to enjoy one of their 200 or so varieties of scotchy-scotch-scotch.

Terroni (Queen West)
The city's first Terroni, located just east of Bellwoods, also happens to feature a wonderful, airy back patio. There's ample seating to suit a typical Terroni lineup, and giant umbrellas keep it shady and comfortable. Enjoying a Terroni wood-fired pizza outdoors in the sunshine is, as far as I'm concerned, one of Toronto's great pleasures.

3 Speed
3 Speed, at Bloor and Dufferin, is one of my favourite bars in the city. In the summer, its patio makes it even more dive-tacular. There's a wood stove, fairy lights, long communal tables and quiet cozy corners to make out in. Couple this with a simple glass of Jameson or a pint alongside a small cheese board, and you're in for a distinctly unpretentious time and some top-notch conversation. It would also be a great place to set the scene of a novel.

Greenwood Smokehouse BBQ
For 12 years before opening Greenwood Smokehouse BBQ, owner Warren DeSimone's favourite hobby was smoking meat. It shows on his menu: ribs, pulled pork sandwiches and burgers dominate. Their backyard patio has a retro feel, with red umbrellas and picnic tables, old-school Christmas bulbs, and a lattice fence with lush plants peeking over. (Pro tip: This is a good spot to bring your boyfriend when he's mad at you.)

Ursa
Ursa's patio is bright and simply-designed (think the starkness of Ikea furniture, but up the quality into something reasonable). What makes it one of the best in Toronto is the food at Ursa, which can be defined as beautiful plates of art that make the tastebuds wonder what their lives could possibly been about prior to this.

Cold Tea
Yes, yes. Cold Tea used to be secret, and is now, well, not so much. But it can be a fun place to party, and the music is usually reliably good. The patio has long communal tables stretched along its length, and lights strung up overhead. It's ideal for meeting up with big groups of friends and enjoying copious amounts of creative cocktails (invented by Matt LaRochelle).

The Keg (Financial District)
If you're the type who finds jokes about "meatatarians" funny, you'll love the Keg. The Financial District location's decor is a step up from some of the chain's other outposts, and its outdoor patio at York and Richmond features comfy plush chairs and ample seating. Come for the steaks, stay for the stock tips.

Aft Kitchen & Bar
This Riverside patio is a go-to for BBQ in the east end. You'll find artfully constructed wings and ribs - all the better for enjoying on Aft's dreamy patio, which is encased in a low fence with trees peeking over, and accented by a red brick wall. You'll find lovely mood lighting at night, so as to make your carnivorous chowing a wee bit romantic, perhaps? Top it off with a pint and you're set.

Did we miss your favourite? Leave your favourite backyard patio in the comments.

Weekend events in Toronto is our guide to events happening this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Here's what's happening in Toronto this July 11-13, 2014.

Junction Night Market
Aka the "we have to take the 40 bus, but look at this nice event we have!" festival, the Junction Night Market is set to return to wow your (Junctionite or not) tastebuds. Learn more about some of the food, beer, and wine vendors here, then set out to look for cold pressed juice and ice cream, gazpacho, and fried mac and cheese balls at the Junction Train Platform. Hopefully the lines are a little better than last time, but try to come as early as you can to be safe. Saturday, July 12, 7pm, Pacific Avenue at at Dundas St. West. Food/drink tickets $5, all proceeds go to charity.

SPORTS

World Cup
Germany and Argentina. Those off colour jokes are getting old, but so is the World Cup! Sunday is the last day, and then we can all forget about pretending we care about soccer, or other countries, or congregating in bars. Wait, not congregating in bars. Here are our top 10 picks for where to watch Sunday's match. 3pm.

ART

Flipping Properties
In the laneway at Sheridan Avenue and Gordon Street, some street art with a twist will be on display from now until September: Jimenez Lai's Flipping Properties, presented by Rear View (Projects), is an "ongoing study of super-furnitures by Lai, an architect, and the team of Bureau Spectacular." Super-furniture is "too big to be furniture and too small to be architecture." Confused? It's a large, free art installation that's house-like, and furniture-like, in an alley. Fun! Lai and Britt Wray (CBC, WNYC) will talk at 7pm tonight. The exhibition runs from July 11 - September 14 in Little Portugal.

DCP x TUPF: Pop-Up Gallery & Festival Closing Gala
The TUPF Toronto Urban Photography Festival is winding down, but they're going to shoot that last exposure like they mean it with a raffle/giveaway, and of course, alcohol (which isn't free). At a party with the photogs it's best not to forget to work your angles. Friday, July 11, 6:30-11pm, 180 Sudbury Street.

See also

• Entertainment District Art Crawl (Friday, David Pecaut Square)
• Riverside ArtFEST (Sunday)
• Sunday Scene - Elisha Lim (Sunday, Power Planet)
• Swap Don't Shop Summer Clothing Swap Party (Sunday, industREALarts room)

For more art listings, check out our Top 10 Must-See Art Shows This Summer post.

FOOD

Free slurpees
7-11 is giving away free small slurpees today (Friday July 11) from 11am - 7pm. Even drinking a small one makes me need a nap. Slurpees are probably pretty bad for you, but the colours and the flavours, oh dear.

2 Year Anniversary at P&L
Happy Birthday, Parts & Labour. The celebration is free until 11pm ($5 after), and there will be swag. And cupcakes. Wish this Parkdale restaurant all the best during the remainder of their toddler years, and take an extra shot for the love of the venue downstairs. Saturday, July 12, 10:30pm, Parts & Labour (1566 Queen St. West).

Toronto Underground Market
The Toronto Underground Market (TUM) returns to 99 Sudbury this Saturday from 5pm. Tickets ($15) are still available for the food fest, featuring vendors like Hotbunzz, Big E's Hawaiian Grinds and La Brea Food. Saturday, July 15, 5pm, 99 Sudbury, $15. LI

See also

• Night It Up (July 11-13, Markham Civic Centre)

For more food events, check out our Toronto Food Events, Summer Food Events, and Summer Beer Events post.

MUSIC

Construction Series
Construction (the summer answer to Long Winter) is keepin' on this month with Absolutely Free, Doomsquad, and Anamai. AKA a pretty presh bill, Toronto wise. I'd like to buy the Anamai cassette but it's $10. Gotta save up. Friday, July 11, Smiling Buddha (961 College St), PWYC, all ages.

Los Van Van in Toronto free concert
Cuban band Los Van Van has a long history, and they'll be at City Hall for free on Saturday evening. July 12, 8pm, Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen Street West).

Mexican Slang record release
Mexican Slang are not exactly new to the Toronto scene, but there's a decent chance you may not have heard of them yet. As their new record Inside the Velvet Castle drops on buzzy (sorry) Toronto label Buzz Records, read our interview with the trio for some key notes from the Mexican Slang phrasebook. Hint: Siouxsie and the Banshees + Cocteau Twins + sludge. Yeah, fun. Saturday, July 12, Manifesto (37 Bulwer Street), $10 includes EP. ESP

So Percussion and Man Forever
Just east of the Don Valley, the must-see show for fans of percussion and experimental jazz will go down at Jam Factory with Man Forever (John Colpitts, aka Kid Millions, Oneida) and So Percussion, the "premiere contemporary percussion ensemble" in the USA (or so they proclaim). Music in the Barns will be there for support. Need more? OOIOO are at Lee's Palace a week later. Sunday, July 13, Jam Factory (2 Matilda St).

Yung Lean and Sad Boys
Yung Lean & Sad Boys hit Toronto this summer in a slew of North American tour dates for the first time after a sold out European tour. This Swedish rapper and his crew were all born between 1995-1996 and spit emotional raps about everything from Pokemon to Windows screensavers. The Black Marble Tour is perfect for those of you looking for something different in the Toronto hip-hop scene this summer. Sunday, July 13, 8pm, The Hoxton, $20. Or catch them on Monday in Scarborough at Rockpile East (Monday's show is all ages). M

See also

• Waterfront Blues Festival (July11-13, Woodbine Park)
• Monthly Live Music: Army Girls (Sunday, Opticianado Eyewear)
• Red Bull Thre3Style: Canadian East Regional Qualifier (Friday, The Hoxton)
• Zacht Automaat + Prince Nifty (Friday, Double Double Land)
• DETH (Saturday, Silver Dollar)
• Healing Power Records (Saturday, Tranzac)

For more music listings, check out our This Week in Music, July Concerts, Summer Concerts, and Summer Music Festivals posts.

FILM

CPFF Days of Summer: Mr. Hulot's Holiday a night of seaside flicks
Christie Pits Film Fest is screening Jacques Tati's Mr. Hulot's Holiday in honour of Bastille Day. Summer vibes rule the nights' short film selections - and the food and beer vendors. The screening is PWYC, so chip in a couple of dollars (or French francs). Sunday, July 13, 7:30pm, Christie Pits Park (779 Crawford Ave West).

See also

• Techno/Human: The Films Of Mamoru Oshii (TIFF)

PARTY

X-FEELS
It's an X-Files dance party with DJ BJ Sarah D'Angelo, DJ Minivanman Cam Lee, and DJ Dorian Gay Lulu wei. Dress up as Mulder, Scully, or an alien (Scully's baby? One of Scully's babies?) It won't be as amazing as the video below, but you can imagine Cher is there. Friday, July 11, 10pm, The Beaver (1192 Queen St West).

Promise Cherry Beach
The beach party goes down as always, this time with special guests Hipnosis with Detroit's Alton Miller. Dogs are welcome if they like to play nice. Sunday, July 13, 3pm, Cherry Beach.

For more dance listings, check out our Top Dance Parties in Toronto in July post.

THEATRE

Fringe Festival
Toronto's largest indie theatre festival has kicked off summer with one of the most exciting and jam-packed weeks on the arts calendar: the fest spans 12 days and features over 140 shows across 35 different venues in the city. The list of addition programming (FringeKids!, a site-specific Art Category, Fringe Club, Tent Talks, etc.) will make your head spin. To complete your Fringe journey (this is the last weekend), pick up a guide book at one of the locations listed on their website, or better yet check out our guide to the 2014 Fringe Fest here. Until Sunday, July 13. DF

BOOKS

Millions Magazine Issue 5 launch
Check out the launch of Millions' fifth issue on emerging and established contemporary artists, and meet some fine contributors. While artspeak can be tricky business (face-palmy business), we definitely need more arts writing and support, so show your love tonight. Mags can be grabbed for a special price of $10 each at the launch. Friday, July 11, 7pm, Paul Petro Contemporary Art (980 Queen St West).

FASHION / LIFESTYLE

The 2014 GreatTTC Knitalong
Fans of cozy stitches can tour a knitter's Toronto with this "knitalong." There will be freebies! The bad stitch is there's already a wait-list - jump onto it here. Saturday July 12, $15 (proceeds go to Sistering: A Woman's Place).

The Gibraltar Market
Get thee to the island for this new market featuring the usual items - vintage clothing, handmades, curiosities, and maybe something made by bees. Then whoah, you're on the island, so you can hit the beach. I'm jealous of you because I'm going to Hamilton and there won't be any "Little Sea Smoothies" in Hamilton - those are an island exclusive. Drink them for me. Check the vendors here. Saturday, July 12, 12-4pm, Artscape Gibraltar Point (443 Lakeshore Avenue., Toronto Island).

See also

• Toronto Flower Market (Saturday, 1056 Queen St. West)
• Parkdale Flea (Sunday, Goodfellas Gallery)

COMMUNITY

Pan Am One Year Countdown
One year until Toronto is flooding with Pan Am tourists. Celebrate it? There will be a life-size foosball machine on site. Friday and Saturday. July 11-12, Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St West).

Caribbean Carnival Toronto (aka, Caribana)
The launch of the nearly month-long carnival is on now, though the main events don't take place until later in the month, and the legendary parade, in its 46th year, is on August 2. It's the largest celebration of Caribbean culture in North America, and a fun, high-energy way to explore new cuisine, music and art. And partying. Check out the fest online here. SR

Salsa on St. Clair
Salsa on St. Clair is probably one of the festivals most fraught with steamy summer possibilities. This year, it's a week long with events across the city from July 12 to 20 - check out the programming for the first week here. The street festival, which is obviously along St. Clair, is the weekend of the 19 and 20. SR

See also

• China Now (July 11-13 Harbourfront Centre)
• Cultura Festival (Friday, Mel Lastman Square)
• Festival of India (July 12-13)
• Bastille Day (Sunday, Wychwood Barns)

GEEK

Atomic Lollipop 2014
Atomic Lollipop is back, suspiciously booked at the Science Centre, which despite its cool name is probably Toronto's least cool tourist attraction, whale skeleton or not. Still, AL has a ton of programming planned and this is where the cosplay culture and Japanimation fans will be this weekend, and that's pretty cool. July 11-13, Ontario Science Centre (770 Don Mills Road).

ACTIVISM

SlutWalk Toronto 2014
I finally got a dog! Now I don't get cat-called; I get dog-called. Men leer at me and my tiny pet from huge bicycles and cars, perhaps thinking I desperately desire attention. Guys, my pug has to pee. I'm wearing shorts because it's hot out. Don't be gross! Slut Walk gets people talking about things like how, duh, summer clothing shouldn't lead to harassment. Wise up before my mini-pug bites you. Read more about Slut Walk here, here, and here. Saturday, July 12, 3pm, Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W).

MEN

Modern Man - Cancelled
Modern Man's Official Event for Man has been cancelled. Dudes just didn't want to spend a day at 99 Sudbury eating, drinking, playing, and shopping for $39 on a summer weekend. Back to the (manly) drawing board and shed a tear for a man near you.

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

Contributions by Markit, Sarah Ratchford, Derek Flack, Liora Ipsum, Evan Sue-Ping

Photo by Owen Bury in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Fashion non-profits in Toronto don't forgo the importance of style in the face of adversity. Many of these organizations recognizes that sometimes the fashion industry can use help, too - whether in regards to helping new entrepreneurs launch their businesses, or promoting environmental standards for clothing manufacturers. Others see ways the fashion industry can lend a hand, helping less-fortunate residents look put-together and professional when, financially, it's not always easy.

Here are my picks for the top 5 fashion non-profits in Toronto.

The Toronto Fashion Incubator
The Toronto Fashion Incubator (TFI) is a non-profit that's all about small businesses and getting fashion industry entrepreneurs off the ground. Budding fashion students and newbies to the business world can join the organization's outreach program for access to their vast educational resources on anything from sales and marketing techniques to long-term business planning and networking opportunities. For $275 a month, resident members have round-the-clock access to TFI's creative studios in Liberty Village, a new designer's safe haven stocked with a full library of resources and expert mentors. Jeanne Beker approved.

Dress Your Best
Suits don't come cheap. Dress Your Best, run by the Live to Give Relief Organization, knows this struggle. The 14-year-old operation, which thrives off of used clothing and financial donations, works to help disadvantaged men in the GTA find gainful employment by providing them with professional apparel for job interviews and newfound careers. Image consultants meet with referred clients to help them find a personalized, professional wardrobe suited for first impressions and everyday use.

Fashion Takes Action
Sustainability is No. 1 for Fashion Takes Action (FTA), a Toronto-based non-profit that wants consumers to change the way they wear their clothes. FTA's goal is to inform folks on the social and environmental impact of fast fashion. They promote the use of sustainable fabrics, and educate fashion businesses and entrepreneurs about issues like unjust labour practices and toxic chemicals used in common fabric production. Their approachable, green-friendly campaigns make change seem easy, too: FTA encourages simple lifestyle changes like hanging your clothes to dry instead of using a dryer, wearing vintage or used clothing, attending clothing swaps, or monitoring how you use your washing machine and detergents.

Dress For Success
With 125 volunteer-run locations around the world, Dress for Success is the best known fashion non-profit currently working out of Toronto. Their objective is simple: to help women transitioning from unemployment to the workplace dress for the job they want, because sometimes, looking your best just doesn't vibe with your personal finances. A membership to Dress for Success also includes meetings under the Professional Women's Group (PWG) aimed to teach women who are unfamiliar with office dress etiquette how to get along in a corporate environment, handle their finances responsibly, and develop career-advancement skills.

Fashion Helps
Fashion Helps is the brainchild of Torontonian Sheila McElrea, a professional stylist who's using the fashion industry to support communities in need. The young organization's popular program, The Fashion Project: This Is Me, provides seminars and crafting opportunities for homeless youth (in collaboration with Horizons for Youth in Toronto) to build self-esteem, confidence, and think creatively about their self-image.

BONUS

Inside the Dream
Dedicated to boosting the self-esteem of teens in less-than-desirable financial situations, Inside the Dream (ITD) is a charitable organization that provides free formal attire for Toronto high school students who can't afford all the fees that come along with looking nice for prom and graduation day. ITD's annual formal wear event, Boutique Day, is an opportunity for referred students to shop for dresses, tuxes, and accessories free of cost.

Did I miss any? Leave your suggestions for charities and non-profit groups that use fashion to help others in the comments.

Writing by Alex Brown. Photo via Dress For Success.

Toronto's longest running live music residencies seem at odds with an age of SnapChat and one day pop-up shops, but it's nice to know some things hang around for longer than a millisecond. Sure it's exciting when the next indieTM superstar rolls through town for one-night-only, but sometimes you crave the familiar or want to flex your hometown pride. From folk to funk and from rock to roots, Torontonians can take in weekly shows from artists who've been a fixture on the same stage for, in some cases, decades - pick your night of the week.

For those who like their steak aged, their shoes broken in, their wine perfectly cellar-ed, and their live music well-established, here are the Toronto's longest running live music residencies.

Happy Pals - Grossman's Tavern - Saturday 4-8pm
Just like their name suggests, The Happy Pals have been putting smiles on people's faces for over 40 years with jazz and blues on Saturday afternoons at Grossman's Tavern. A little big band with a big, big heart provides the perfect reason to get out of the house on the weekend - and all ages are welcome.

Michael Louis Johnson & the Red Rhythm - Communist's Daughter - Saturday 4-7pm
As you step into the Communist's Daughter on a Saturday afternoon you wonder if you've stepped into the middle of a musical in which the bartender is the main character and the audience is part of the show. Your congenial and engaging host is Michael Louis Johnson who has been singing, blowing a horn all the while slinging drinks behind the bar every Saturday for ten years at this charming hole in the wall.

John Borra & Screamin' Sam - Communist's Daughter - Sunday 5pm
A Sunday staple, John and Sam have been serving up old country and folk for the devoted and delighted for nine years. It's like church without the church part. Audiences love John's plaintive croon and are intrigued by what homemade percussion gadget Sam will play next.

Tyler Yarema & His Rhythm - Reservoir Lounge - Tues & Sat 9pm
It's been 17 years since Tyler Yarema first brought his blend of swing, jive and boogie-woogie to the venerated underground haunt of the Reservoir Lounge. He plays Tuesday and Saturday nights much to the thrill of those wanting to test their Charleston on the dance floor.

Run with the Kittens - Cameron House - 1st Tuesday of the month 10pm
At their recent 10 year anniversary of playing at the Cameron House, Run with the Kittens played 10 full sets of weird and wonderful music in one night. Marathons aside, these guys know how to get a crowd going with incredible musicianship and the antics of inimitable front man, Nate Mills.

Spy vs. Sly vs. Spy - Reposado - Wednesday 10pm
Ever had a craving for an instrumental jazz version of the theme to the TV show Taxi chased by a rare premium tequila? Look no further than Wednesday nights at Resposado when the trio of Spy vs. Sly vs. Spy dismantle jazz standards and popular hits like they've been doing it for six years (they have).

LMT Connection - Orbit Room - Wednesdays 10:30pm
This band has been laying down the soul and funk on Wednesday nights at the Orbit Room since 1998. Just try to stay in your seat when singer Leroy Emmanuel gets the groove going - he toured and recorded with Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight, and the Funk Brothers, in case you needed another excuse to check them out.

High Lonesome Wednesdays featuring Crazy Strings - Silver Dollar - Wednesday 10pm
For the past 15 years, the best bet for mind-blowing bluegrass on a Wednesday night has been found at the Silver Dollar care of the Foggy Hogtown Boys and their sty of special guests. An eclectic crowd swarms in every week - it's a guaranteed good time.

Corin Raymond - Cameron House - Thursday 6-8pm
Part troubadour, part storyteller, part Canadian Folk Song proselytizer, Corin Raymond has held down his matinee spot at the Cameron House for nine years. Raymond's giddy energy is infectious and his tune "There Will Always Be A Small Time" is the veritable theme song for the weekly residency.

The Hogtown Syncopators - The Rex - Friday 4pm
Inspired by the music of the 1930s, the Hogtown Syncopators bring their version of jazz, swing, and blues to the Rex Hotel every Friday at 4pm. You won't forget stellar vocalist Terra Hazelton's renditions of familiar and not-so-familiar standards.

Writing by Patrick Brealey. Photo of Michael Louis Johnson at The Communist's Daughter by Jesse Milns.

Kal & Mooy is a brand-new food truck, serving up hearty Somali dishes refined by the owners in their own kitchen over the years. You'll find Somali flatbread wraps, meat and rice dishes and samosas, punched up by long-simmered homemade sauces and a little bit of spice (or a lot, if you can handle it).

Read more about Kal & Mooy on Toronto Food Trucks.

The top gaming nights and groups in Toronto cater to game lovers of every stripe - from the boardgame aficionados to the console addicts to the tabletop geeks. Even if you just want to drink a ton of cheap beer and play the video games you loved when you were 11, Toronto's bars, game spaces and gaming groups can get you out of the basement and into a fun, vibrant social setting.

If you don't want to wait for games night to happen, Toronto has plenty of places to play board games at your leisure - and there are tons of locally-designed video games you can test out during solo gaming time. Sometimes, though, you just want to go where the party is (and then school someone at that party, ideally by using Yoga Fire or a +2 broadsword).

Here are the top gaming nights and groups in Toronto.

RECURRING GAMING EVENTS

Games With Friends at Bento Miso
Every other Monday, gamers gather at the Bento Miso co-working space to break out any and all games that fit their fancy - indie video games projected on the wall, strategy-based card games, classic console games. They even encourage local developers to bring whatever they've been working on for a group playtest. Games With Friends scores big for not only welcoming all kinds of games (and gamers), but for their promise of pizza. Delicious, delicious pizza.

Boardgame Night at 401 Games
On Yonge, just south of Wellesley, 401 Games offers everything needed to keep gamers in game books and polyhedral dice. They also do their part to build some community with a slew of gaming meetups. Most notable is their Wednesday-evening general board game night, which features a wide variety of games suitable for folks of all skill levels. (If you've been working on a sweet deck of something-or-other, there's also tons on the calendar for specific card games.)

Game Night at The Bar With No Name
This High Park-area watering hole wears its nerdiness proudly on its sleeve (or, rather, on its walls, which are festively decorated with Magic: The Gathering symbols). Their roster of rotating events includes a Monday night video game contest, with a free pitcher of suds going to the victor; an "epic" Xbox competition every second Wednesday; and recurring Magic tournaments, which you can sign up for on their Facebook page. They also host karaoke nights! ("Still Alive" better be on that list.)

Nintendo Knights at Handlebar
Kensington Market's Handlebar spends a lot of their evenings hosting live music, but one glorious night every month, they set up the N64, select a cartridge from their collection, hold big-screen tournaments on the projector, and then host live music from occasion-appropriate electro and chiptune acts. They also suggest you "Drink To The Past", which is a pun so good I'm angry I didn't think of it first.

Game Meets at Holy Oak Cafe
Clearly, Wednesday night's all right for gaming. This Bloor and Lansdowne cafe hosts recurring game nights on the first and second Wednesday of every month; bring a game or try out one of theirs while enjoying some alcoholic libations. (Card sharks beware: No games involving 52-card decks allowed.)

WHERE IT'S ALWAYS GAMES NIGHT

Dueling Grounds
Are miniatures, card games and pen-and-paper RPGs your jam? Then head on over to this hobby games store near Bloor and Lansdowne, where they host tabletop game nights of various kinds (including Warhammer, D&D and Magic) every Wednesday through Sunday.

A&C World
The games rage ever on and on at this space, an offshoot of A&C Games at Bloor and Spadina. The $5 entrance fee ($10 on tournament days) gets you access to retro consoles like Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis, modern-day systems like Xbox 360, and arcade games like Street Fighter II and Bust-A-Move. Follow their Twitter account for updates, where they frequently utter magic words like "Super Smash Bros. Melee weekly tournament".

WAbar
On the other end of the gaming-intensity scale, you'll find this Asian-influenced sports bar near Yonge and Isabella. In addition to a series of TVs showing sports games, an incredibly well-stocked bar and a menu of Korean (by way of the deep fryer) snacks, there's a SNES always available for Mario Kart and Street Fighter tournaments. There are also multiple beer pong tables - that counts as gaming, right?

GAMING MEETUP GROUPS

Meetup.com
Toronto has not one, but two gaming Meetup groups with strong followings: Toronto Area Gamers and Toronto Boardgame and Social. (Gamers are generally a peaceful people, but I secretly want to see them fight it out for Toronto gaming supremacy in some kind of massive LARP battle.) Both of them feature event postings from all kinds of local gamers, from one-off casual gaming sessions to ongoing campaigns.

Toronto Gaymers Monthly Board Game Night
Toronto Gaymers bill themselves as "Toronto's original LGBT* social group for geeks and gamers of all stripes". Their scope includes meetups for board and card games, PC and console games, anime fandom and cosplay, but their staple event is a monthly board game meetup held at Glad Day bookstore.

Did we miss any? Leave your favourite gaming spots, events, or groups in the comments. Photo by Natta Summerky

There's a new brunch spot in Bloordale and this one has a familiar name. Under construction for more than a year after appearing on Restaurant Takeover, this space next door to neighbourhood institution Duffy's Tavern has finally opened as a brunch focused retro diner.

Read my review of Duffy's Diner in the restaurants section.

Photo by syncros in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Pieter DeJonge is giving new meaning to the phrase "meatball hero" - the longtime farmer is bringing locally-sourced food to Hamiltonians in the form of custom-blended meatballs (plus veggie versions for non-carnivores). You'll find them served in standard ways, like nestled into a bun with house-made marinara sauce, or in novel, crowd-pleasing dishes - meatball poutine, anyone?

Read more about The Meatball Shoppe on Toronto Food Trucks.

The top Toronto bands playing fusion music know anything goes - go ahead and confine your musical interests to specific genres or artists, but know you're be leaving out a world of possibilities. Toronto's upstart DIY, underground, and even indie music scenes have latched onto this lately in a big way (see BADBADNOTGOOD, Lido Pimienta, Not the Wind, Not the Flag, and Petra Glynt, for example), and they owe a lot to early experimenters blending sounds and genres from around the world one might never expect to hear together. Think of the unexpected deliciousness of chocolate with chili, but music.

Emerging out of the city's multicultural music landscape, many Toronto bands and artists are dedicated to crafting these unexpected sounds. While it would be impossible to name the myriad of Toronto artists pulling hat-tricks with surprisingly diverse influences, here are ten who do it right and keep me guessing every time. Just don't call it "world music."

Quique Escamilla
Which patio or beer garden to chill on this summer is what everybody (especially us) is talking about lately, and Quique Escamilla's music will be the perfect soundtrack for late, hazy summer evenings. The palpable energy in his sunny reggae beats topped with a uniquely Mexican sounds and his charming singing (in Spanish) will put a skip in your step and leave you yearning for more. CBC radio's Here and Now premiered the first single "Presa Fácil" off his new album 500 Years of Night. He's touring Canada this summer and has played various festivals including the Dundas West Festival and Luminato.

Blitz
Turn up your stereo's bass volume while listening to rap artist Blitz. The strong and steady Punjabi beat on top of his flowing rap lyrics creates a new and unique hip hop style. Guest vocals and various different instruments are confidently added to the eclectic mix - his collaborations have included other well-known fusion musicians such as Britain's RDB (short for Rhythm, Dhol, Bass) who are also known for a similar Punjabi fusion. His second album Get Blitzed is set to be released this fall.

Lenka Lichtenberg
Interested in hearing songs belted out in Yiddish, Czech or other exotic language? Meet Lenka Lichtenberg, perhaps Toronto's best-known fusion musician. Her enthralling vocals and curious blend of Middle Eastern, Latin, and European influences will add spice and flavour to your musical pallet. Supporting her vocals are instruments ranging from the sitar to powerful percussions to flutes. She's also been featured on CBC's Here and Now - "Open My Eyes" was chosen as song of the week this past January.

Kaminari
Fusing the sound of East, West and countries as far away as Australia, Kaminari uses the quiet and nearly obscure sound of the native Australian instrument the didgeridoo and India's quintessential instrument the sitar to create a unique and positively haunting sound. Their melodies are meditative yet uplifting - and the music's familiar electronica beat makes it way more accessible than the above may suggest. Yoshi and his sitar have also appeared with Toronto based jazz bassist Abbey Sholzberg.

Autorickshaw
In Autorickshaw's music there are only three main elements: vocals, bass and the distinct sound of tabla percussions, a type of Indian percussion instrument. Yet their music is anything but simple. They have an eastern infused jazz sound and one can't help but get caught up in the whirlwind of Suba Sankaran's mesmerizing vocals. Her voice paired with the tabla and bass make for a feet-tapping combination. This summer they'll be touring jazz festivals in Ottawa, Toronto and Oakville.

The Heavyweights Brass Band
There are so many styles and genres of music, why choose just one? The Heavyweights Brass Band definitely don't limit themselves - they blend Latin, r&b, and big-band styles together in one exciting mixture crammed with energy and soul. This six piece delivers a steady sound of five brass instruments blended with a funky and steady drumbeat. Some past collaborations include legendary percussionist Giovanni Hidalgo.

Kae Sun
Reining you in with his alluring vocals, Kae Sun captures your attention at first listen. While some of songs are stripped bare with just soulful vocals and energetic guitar playing, others have a powerful beat and bass which adds depth and a sultry pop quality to his music. Kae Sun's second album AFRIYIE is available on his website. He's currently touring in Germany, but will be in Toronto this summer - catch him on August 14, 2014 at David Pecaut Square.

Drumhand
Your first clue is in the name. Drumhand's overall sound is, well, drum-tastic. This is jazz with an Afro beat, then energetic sounds of brass instruments and vocals add an extra layer to their songs. The five band members all lend their voices in a way which sounds more like hollering than singing. They perform in various different festivals including the Guelph Jazz Festival, but for those who want to release some tension and take a stab at drumming, they band also offer workshops.

The Chameleon Project
The Chameleon Project fuse together funk and jazz, and describe their style as psychedelia. Reminiscent of dance and ska music of the 90s', which, by the look of today's current fashion trends is a welcomed comeback, the colourful style of the band member's clothing matches their energetic presence and the carefree sound of their music. They band are currently working on their third album and have captivated audiences in many different music festivals including Camp Bisco festival in upstate New York and NuJazz Festival in Toronto.

DJ Medicineman
Global sounds mixed with an electronic beat is what DJ Medicineman offers with his hypnotic fusion of electronica, dub, and much more. Tune in to his radio program "No Man's Land" on CIUT 89.5FM to experience the music for yourself. This mellow blend of eastern and western flavours will leave you feeling relaxed as you inescapably impulsively move and groove to the rhythm. His show was nominated as "Community Radio Show of the Year" at the 2012 Pioneer DJ Stylus Awards.

Writing by Naomi Grosman. Photo: Quique Escamilla by Kerry Shaw via Facebook.

Residents of Little Portugal who venture down the alley behind Sheridan and Gordon will stumble upon a new design exhibit this summer thanks to Rear View (Projects). Flipping Properties, architect Jimenez Lai (Bureau Spectacular)'s gorilla-ish art installation of several large-scale, sit-able design works (too large to be furniture, but two small to be houses), opened Friday and will stay up in the dead-end laneway until September 14 (or such is the plan).

At the opening Lai and the CBC/WNYC's Britt Wray gave a muddled run down of the project as a couple of guys buzzed away on a project of their own by a garage nearby (who were asked, as the area became populated with art fans and architecture grads, to cut the noise). The presenters confessed the laneway was employed when the project didn't find gallery space - yet it was surprising that neither touched on community related issues or ideas for re-use of Toronto's often dead laneways, as David Suzuki's Homegrown Design Challenge winner Tawab Hlimi did with project Carolinian Way.

Still, Flipping Properties hopes locals will "gather and imagine an architecture that can reorient infinitely" (infinitely!), and social commentary or not the install makes for a fun find and an intriguing under-the-radar hang out spot. Bring your next date or walk your dog by to puzzle over space, architect style.

Flipping Properties is on until September 14 in the laneway at Sheridan Avenue & Gordon Street (see their map here). The exhibit is free.

Photo: Denise McMullin

Want to show your civic pride, feed the hungry, and look cool as hell? new Toronto-based T-shirt company is making all of that a surprisingly simple proposition. For every shirt Peace Collective sells, they've promised to donate a month's worth of school meals to a child in need through the World Food Program.

The standout: Their sleek Toronto vs. Everybody design ($30), which makes me want to band together with my fellow Torontonians and take on the world (in the nicest, most polite way possible.) They've also added a few other options, including floral Wu-Tang logo tees, for the sensitive hip-hop fan in your life.

Free events in Toronto this week offer the summer's usual array of free outdoor film screenings, festivals, and concerts, plus a few surprises to shake it up - tour to a beehive by bicycle (and sample honey!), eat lunch at the Ossington Stop (like, for free, but remember to TIP), and a day of music on Toronto Islands (not in support of men's equality, I promise). Free concerts, artist talks, and dance lessons mean that a shitty summer is your own fault, not your wallet's.

Here's how to live like nature intended (no money, no need for pants) in Toronto this week.

Urban Beekeeping Bicycle Tour
Penelope Stewart's beeswax exhibit "Vanitas" was a pick on our summer art shows list, so if you haven't seen it yet here's a fun excuse/adventure. Bike from Koffler Gallery to the Portlands Energy Centre beehives where there will be honey samples and a demonstration. Sign up via this page or you might miss your spot. Monday, July 14, 6:30pm, Koffler Centre of the Arts
(180 Shaw Street).

Bloody Diamonds Live at Bovine Sex Club
Bloody Diamonds will play the Bovine for free every Monday in July (14, 21, 28). Check the pentagram-loving band out here. Mondays, 9pm, Bovine Sex Club (542 Queen Street West).

Opening Talk: Claire Fontaine present a lecture on 1970s Italian feminism!
Paris-based "ready-made" artist Claire Fontaine is showing as part of the "Getting Rid of Ourselves" exhibit, and in true French avant form there may be a hint of arty terrorism in this talk on Italian feminism. Wait, will this talk actually be on Italian feminism? Find out on Wednesday. July 16, 6:30pm, OCAD University (100 McCaul Street).

Outdoor Screening of BLOOD BROTHER
So straight forward - free outdoor movie. Looks to be sad/uplifting - Blood Brother is a doc that the story of Rocky, a "young American who moves to India and devotes his life to caring for orphaned children living with HIV/AIDS." Wednesday, July 16, 9pm, Outside Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas Street East).

MDFF presents Ali Aydin's KF
Another screening - this one by donation, so chip in a buck or five - Venice Film Festival winner Ali Aydin's Kf. Expect Dostoyevsky vibes and pray that DDL has installed A/C (I heard a rumour that they planned to, but no promises, sweaty film lovers). Wednesday, July 16, 9pm, Double Double Land (209 Augusta Ave).

fORUM: Monika Szewczyk
Art events are good bets for freebies, but here's a chance to connect with the mind of an artist without straining your eyes on pictures/installs. Monika Szewczyk will host the curiously titled 'how to hold a conversation' event which judging by your commenting skills is a lost cause, but here. Wednesday, July 16, 7pm, Mercer Union, a centre for contemporary art (1286 Bloor Street West).

PPOP and Eastern Promises Present: Jamaican Queens, Farragoes, Body Butter @ Handlebar - Wednesday, July 16th
Detroit's Jamaican Queens are joined by Farragoes, Body Butter at Handlebar (159 Augusta Ave) Wednesday, July 16. It's PWYC, so bring a donation for the touring band!

FREE LUNCH at Ossington Stop
"But it's not even on Ossington!" you say while showing down on free Russian steamed bun with pork, cabbage, and carrot salad, Southern-style chicken n' waffles with honey garlic sauce, and baked BBQ side ribs with "deep goodness" slaw. You stare the gift horse in the mouth like it's the abyss and you're a first year philosophy student. Broke philosopher or not, do not forget to TIP your server or may you forever free-fall in this abyss. Thursday, July 17, 12-5pm, Ossington Stop (1164 Dundas Street West).

Beaches International Jazz Festival
From July 18 - 27 the sweet sounds and smells (food truck alert) of Beaches Jazz will fill Woodbine park. Wander it for free. Free jazz, but not all free jazz - lots of genres are taking part. That was a jazz pun and I'm really sorry. Woodbine Park.

Habari Africa Festival
All weekend long you can check out this free cultural fest at the Harbourfront. Maybe you'll save up enough to go to Africa next year, but this will do for now. July 18-20, Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West).

Music in St. James Park: Bertie & the Gents and Free Swing Dance Class
Beaches Jazz not enough? Hit St James Park to learn to swing dance, or soak up the music (and the sunshine) - either way it's all for free. Friday, July 18, 6:30pm, St. James Park (120 King Street East).

BIG on BLOOR
On Saturday Bloor will be car-free between Dufferin and Lansdowne. There you'll find the BIG Alternative Art Festival, the Card-Yard made from recyclables presented by PULP and Senayah Design, performances, an awards ceremony, the launch of Bloor Gardens, and of course, if you have the dollars, lots to eat and drink. Saturday, July 19, 1-9pm, Bloordale (1215 Bloor Street West).

Cultura Festival
Why do anything indoors? (I say this to my boss in a whiny voice - ineffective.) Cultura Fest is back at Mel Lastman Square July 18 and 25. Performers, art installs, and film screenings are all free. Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge Street).

Salsa on St. Clair
Salsa on St. Clair is probably one of the festivals most fraught with steamy summer possibilities. This year, it's a week long with events across the city from July 12 to 20 - check out the programming for the first week here. The street festival, which is obviously along St. Clair, is this weekend - 19 and 20. SR

Poor Pilgrim Island Show 7
It's back - Poor Pilgrim presents Doomsquad, IC/JC/VC, Petra Glynt, Carl Didur and more in a relaxing show in hidden spots on the island (a map and tour will guide the way). It's PWYC and the ferry is $7 (the ride home is free). Sunday, July 20, 5pm, Toronto Islands.

Summer Fun Run - On-Water Model Boat Show
Think boats are super cool? What about mini boats? Everything is better in miniature, or so I keep telling myself. Watch some boat geeks sail their toys by the water this weekend. Sunday, July 20, 10am, The Sailing Pond - Humber Bay Park East, Toronto (Lakeshore Blvd. West & Parklawn Road).

CPFF Days of Summer: Stand By Me coming-of-age flicks
I have watched Stand By Me so many times that I could recite the whole thing from memory, but embedding audio in this post would defeat the purpose of you going to check out this free outdoor screening of the Rob Reiner classic aka the only coming of age film that matters (maybe). Bring a blanket and a small donation. Saturday July 20, 7:30pm, Christie Pits Park (779 Crawford Ave W).

Curator's talk with Helena Reckitt
Onsite [at] Ocadu's new group show Getting Rid of Ourselves opens this week, and on Saturday you can attend curator Helena Reckitt's talk on the exhibit. Learn more here. Saturday, July 19, 1pm, Onsite [at] Ocadu (230 Richmond Street West, Street Level).

• Elvis Mondays at the Drake
• Foosball Battle Royale, Monday, Disgraceland
• Art Gallery of Ontario free evening, Wednesday, 6-8:30pm.
• IFOA Weekly, free for supporters, students, & youth under 26, Wednesday, Harbourfront Centre
• Skin of My Nuts Comedy Show, Thursday, Sonic Espresso Bar
• Free patio concerts, Thursday until Aug 7, Roy Thomson Hall
• Canadian Opera Company's Free Concerts series
• While nearly all art galleries in the city are free to enter, it's worth noting The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA) is always PWYC.
• The ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) offers discounted tickets on Fridays ($10).

Do you want everyone to know about your kinda random free or pay-what-you-can event? Submit it to our event section. (You can also submit your for-money events here, greedy-pants.)

Contributions by Sarah Ratchford. Salsa on St. Clair photo by Irina No.