Time to pump up the tires and lube up the chain, Bike Month is here again. From May 25 to June 25, hundreds of cycling-related events will take place across the GTA. From tune-ups, to repair workshops, to Polish-themed bicycle rides around the city's west end, you're bound to find something to match your level of enthusiasm and skill level.

Bike Month traces its origins to the first Bike to Work Day in 1989. Since then, it's grown into a highlight in the Toronto bicycle calendar, with events in Mississauga, Hamilton, Burlington, Milton, and Peel, York, and Durham regions. Bike to Work Day still runs. This year it takes place on May 25.

Here are 10 highlights from this year's calendar of events.

LGBT Bicycle Easy Peasy 41K Ride along Lakeshore
New for 2015, the 41K bike ride organized by GWBike Club will follow the Martin Goodman Trail from near Bathurst St. to either Dixie Rd. or Marie Curtis Park, loop back, and end up at the Cadillac Lounge in Parkdale for refreshments. There's a chance of a bonus late night ride, so bring your lights.

Where: Meet at Stadium Rd. and Queens Quay W., Toronto.
When: Sunday, May 17, 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Don Valley Urban Forest Bike Trail Clean-Up
It might not be glamorous, but contributing a few hours to help clean up the Don Valley's trail system is an excellent way to ensure the city's most important ravine remains an appealing place for years to come. The free BBQ and prizes should sweeten the deal.

Where: Meet at E.T. Seaton Park (entrance off 71 Thorncliffe Park Dr.)
When: May 23, 2015, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Bike to Work Day
The marquee event of Toronto Bike Month is designed to encourage new people to get in the saddle. Starting at 7:00 a.m. (earlier in some places,) cyclists will converge at various points around the city in preparation for a mass, police-approved ride to City Hall.

Where: Various locations (see map).
When: Monday, May 25, 7:00 to 9:00 a.m.

Spoke O Motion
For the dedicated cyclist, the annual Spoke O Motion bicycle race series at Coulson Hill in Bradford is always highlighted on the calendar. There will be multiple race categories that cater to a variety of skill levels, but every entrant must purchase an Ontario Cycling Association Citizen's Permit in advance. There will be prizes, medals for winners, and factory demos from bicycle manufacturers.

Where: Coulson Hill, York Region.
When: Wednesday, May 27, 7:00 p.m.; Wednesday, June 3, 7:00 p.m.; Wednesday, June 10, 7:00 p.m.; Wednesday, June 17, 7:00 p.m.; and Wednesday, June 24, 7:00 p.m. (multiple events.)

Bells on Danforth
Take over Danforth Ave. with your fellow east-end cyclists at the annual Bells on Danforth event. The family-friendly event is now in its fourth year, and this time will be travelling from west to east, finishing with a Pan Am Games party at Oakridge Park.

Where: Castle Frank subway station, finishing at Danforth Rd.
When: Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

6th Annual Blessing of the Bikes
Make yourself a holy roller at the annual Blessing of the Bikes at Trinity-St. Paul's United Church. People of all ages and beliefs are invited to the event, which honours the sacred value of sustainability. Bicycles will be blessed after a specially-themed church service. Bike Pirates will be on hand "to heal those bikes that require healing."

Where: 427 Bloor St. W.
When: Sunday, June 7, 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.

The Polka Ride
The Polka Ride is returning to the Bike Month calendar for a second year of Eastern European-inspired fun. Polka dots and polka music will be a key part of the event (of course) and, following a short ride, there will be libations, Polish delicacies, and other treats, including a liver accordion musician, at Intersteer Tavern on Roncesvalles.

Where: Meet at Dufferin Grove Park, east side of the rink.
When: Thursday, June 11, 7:00 pm to 9:00 p.m.

Books & Bikes
Writer and cycling advocate Yvonne Bambrick will be on hand at the Lillian H. Smith public library for a talk entitled "Toronto in Literature: Neighbourhood Book Lists for Kensington Market and Chinatown" followed by a community bike ride through Kensington Market.

Where: Meet at Lillian H. Smith library, 239 College St.
When: Saturday, June 20, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Cycle For Sight Toronto
The 7th annual Cycle For Sight from Toronto to Collingwood is a friendly, one-day ride in aid of Foundation Fighting Blindness. Different distances are available, depending on skill and fitness level, and there will be technicians, EMS workers, and refreshments along the route. Register here.

Where: Meet at 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy.
When: Saturday, June 20, 7:00 a.m. to - 6:00 p.m.

Don Valley Bicycle Tour with Heritage Toronto
Historian and author of Reclaiming the Don Jennifer Bonnell will lead a tour of the Don Valley, detailing the natural and human history of Toronto's urban waterway. Expect stories of the river's aboriginal heritage, its straightening in the 1880s, and its use as a refuge for the homeless.

Where: Meet at Todmorden Mills on Bayview Ave.
When: Saturday, June 20, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

Images: Russell Sutherland, Jackman Chiu/blogTO Flickr pool.

Tickets for a surprise Prince concert in Toronto will go on sale at noon today. And, yes, this time it's really happening. Some six months after the elusive musician appeared to be playing a last minute show at Massey Hall, his return to Toronto is imminent. This time it will be the Sony Centre where he's playing as part of his Hit & Run tour on Tuesday, May 19 (yes, as in tomorrow).

Ticketmaster currently lists the range of prices for seats from $62.89 to $269.39, though there are plenty of reports out there that the actual range is $83 to $522. On the bright side, there are two back to back shows, which should increase one's chances of snagging a ticket. That said, the demand for the Tuesday concerts is already huge, so it's going to take a little luck to be one of the chosen ones.

The best farmers' markets in Toronto connect city dwellers directly with local growers and make it easy to enjoy delicious fruits, veggies and seasonal delicacies. Popping up weekly, these markets offer more than just groceries - you'll find everything from family friendly fun to live entertainment and street eats.

Here are the best farmers' markets in Toronto.

See also:

Farmers' markets in Toronto by day of the week
Winter farmers' markets in Toronto

Brick Works Farmers' Market
This Saturday morning market runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. year-round and has become a magnet for locavores looking to buy prime produce, farm fresh eggs, meats, cheeses, and wild flowers. Aside from shopping, visitors can expect live music, kid-friendly activities, tastings and more.

St. Lawrence Market
As the historic North Market undergoes redevelopment, find this farmers' market temporarily relocated to a lot on Lower Jarvis. The market comes alive every Saturday from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., and offers an outstanding variety of seasonal produce straight from the source, plus fresh cut flowers, honey, meats, cheeses and homestyle baked goods.

Leslieville Farmers' Market
The east side farmers' market draws huge crowds to Jonathan Ashbridge Park on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here you'll find seasonal delights like ramps, fiddleheads and rhubarb from local farms, plus artisan sourdoughs from De La Terre, and refreshments from Earth & City and Augie's Ice Pops. After 11am there's even beer!

Wychwood Park/Wychwood Barns
Stock up on kale and fresh baked goods in a single trip to The Stop's first rate farmers' market held each Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. This is another market that is open all year round, and features dozens of merchants including favourites like the Alchemy Pickle Company, Dundas Park Kitchen, and Bizjak Farms.

Dufferin Grove Farmers' Market
Easily accessed by transit and operating every Thursday year-round from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., this farmers' market is a favourite for stocking up on fresh fare on the way home from work. Shop for fresh produce, local organic beef, olive oil, maple syrup, preserves, and more. Refuel along the way with sheep's milk ice cream cones.

The Fairmount Park Farmers' Market
Located on Upper Gerrard between Woodbine and Coxwell, find this farmers' market in business every Wednesday from June to October - rain or shine - from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. In addition to farm fresh produce, enjoy onigiri from Abokichi and Zimbabwaen meat pies from Mnandi Pies.

The Sorauren Farmers' Market
The West-End Food Co-Op hosts this market in Sorauren Park every Monday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Market-goers will find fixtures of the farmers' market circuit like ChocoSol, and Forbes Wild Foods, as well as local gems like Sonam's Momos.

Trinity Bellwoods Farmers' Market
At the northwest corner of Trinity Bellwoods Park, this popular outdoor market is a weekly affair that pops up every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Shop for an array of fresh produce direct from farmers along with notable stalls like Ali's Fish Shack, Monforte Dairy, and St. John's Bakery.

East Lynn Farmers' Market
This open-air market, held every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., is a favourite summer attraction for the Danforth and Woodbine community. Above and beyond basic farm-fresh fruits and veggies, find stellar ready-to-eat options, kid-friendly activities, live entertainment and the occasional movie night.

Nathan Phillips Square Farmers' Market
Fresh Wednesdays brightens up all that concrete in front of City Hall from 8:30 a.m.to 2 p.m. each week from June until mid October. In addition to shopping stalls trading fresh produce, breads, and cheeses, the lunch time clientele enjoy food vendors and live music.

Metro Hall Farmers' Market
Farm fresh produce, baked goods and preserves can be found Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in this courtyard off King West. The farmers' market pops up from late May to late October and features 18 vendors each week selling fresh picked fruits and vegetables, honey, cheese, breads, flowers, herbs.

Withrow Market
Now in its ninth year, this season kicks off in May and will run every Saturday from 9am to 1pm in Withrow Park. Aside from the expected assortment of regionally grown produce and baked goods, highlights here include ice cream sandwiches from Sweet Sammies and preserves from Manning Canning.

The Regent Park Farmers' Market
Every Wednesday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., this farmers' market offers an array of fresh veggies, halal meats, artisanal breads, and cheeses offered by local businesses including Fazla's Cake House, Ethiopian Samosas, and Lemon Lily Tea.

Montgomery's Inn Farmers Market
Every Wednesday from 2pm to 6pm, a collection of local growers and food purveyors gather at Dundas West at Islington to showcase organic produce, fresh baked breads, cheeses, preserves and more. Finish your shopping then tour the museum free during market hours.

East York Farmers' Market
Soak up the sun at this outdoor marketplace on Tuesday mornings from 8am to 2pm in front of the East York Civic Centre on Coxwell. Expect to find freshly harvested Ontario fruits and vegetables as well as honey, preserves, cured meats, cheeses, baked goods, and fruit smoothies.

Knowing a few life hacks in Toronto will make it a whole lot easier to get the most out of this vibrant city. From expertly navigating the TTC to knowing where to get free stuff, there's a host of little tricks that'll save you time and money and make you feel like you're the master of your domain.

Here are 25 hacks to make life easier in Toronto.

1. It's pronounced "Churrono" not "Tor-on-to": the quicker you lose the proper pronunciation the quicker people will think you're a local.

2. Download Rocketman to plan TTC routes. Never wait in the rain at a bus or streetcar stop for 13 minutes again.

3. Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card. A Toronto Public Library card not only gets you access to in-house resources, you can also use it to download e-books and digital albums - you can even use it to get free access to the Zoo.

4. You get six free bagels at What a Bagel on your birthday.

5. Buy all your kitchen stuff at Tap Phong. They have absolutely everything you could need and the best prices in the city.

6. There's an easy trick If you get disoriented coming out of a subway station. Generally downhill is south, uphill is north. Left of the CN tower is east, right is west. You'll never get lost again.

7. Look at the seams of streetcar seats before you sit down. If they're darker, it's probably wet or someone peed on them.

8. You can book a Toronto Greeter for free. Whether you're new in town or you've been here your whole life, you can use a Toronto greeter to fill you in on your neighbourhood and answer any questions you have.

9. At the end of the month people put their old furniture out on the street because they're moving. You can furnish an entire apartment this way.

10. Sign up for DanceBreak, Nights Out, C-Stage, and HipTix to get majorly reduced tickets to theatre, opera and ballet. Provide your email and you'll have access to all the hottest tickets for reduced prices.

11. Spadina Road and Spadina Avenue are NOTthe same thing.

12. You can go to free yoga classes almost every day around the city at Toronto Public Library and Lululemon locations. Check the Share The Love Yoga site for a full schedule of free or donation-based classes. Namaste.

13. When getting on a streetcar at a busy intersection, walk one block east or west and get on without the crowded changeover.

14. There are free shuttles to Vaughan Mills, Toronto Outlets, Ikea and the Brick Works. When you have an itch for discount Kate Spade bags or reasonably priced furniture, it must be scratched.

15. Never transfer at Spadina. People will tell you it can be done. The little map dot will flash green. Do not be fooled.

16. Avoid these tourist traps.

17. Linger around Yonge & Dundas Square and you can get free stuff almost everyday.

18. Public garbage cans have pedals at the bottom. Use them to open the flap and save your hands from having to press against other people's waste.

19. When looking for a specific address remember even numbers are on north and west sides and odd numbers are on south and east sides of the street.

20. Plan your late night drinking around events with extended last calls. TIFF, NXNE, Nuit Blanche, Pride and Fashion Week all have extended 4am last call permits extended as part of their programming.

21. You don't have to pay for on street parking until 1pm on Sundays. Leave a car overnight on a main street between 9pm Sat until 1pm on Sunday for free.

22. You get a free coffee at Jet Fuel on your birthday. Take it home and drink it with one of your free bagels. Birthday celebration complete.

23.The TTC efficiency guide will move you through the subway way faster by showing the best places to board and exit trains.

24. Don't sit in the empty seat on a busy streetcar, there is a reason it is empty. The reason may not be readily apparent but trust your fellow transit-goers.

25. Avoid going outside in the winter at all costs. Hibernate like a bear. It's not worth it.

Those are my essential Toronto life hacks. What are yours? Add them to the comments.

Photo by LunaticDesire in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Now that the wallpaper is up, the cheesecake has been consumed and the YouTube videos re-watched a dozen times, we're looking around the office and realize we need to add some new members to our team. We have a variety of roles currently available - from part-to-full-time commitments - so read on to find out what's currently up for grabs.

EVENTS EDITOR

We have an immediate opening for an Events Editor. In this role you'll be expected to provide leadership in regards to editorial planning and idea generation, contribute daily articles to the site as well as assign and coordinate contributions from members of our freelance writing and photography team.

Requirements

• You have an in depth knowledge of local events and venues and have an understanding what makes for appropriate content for the site.
• At least 2 years of online writing experience.
• Solid research skills and the ability to write concise, punchy prose in article or list-based formats.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to consistently meet deadlines.
• Proven experience with editorial planning and managing a team.
• A background in journalism, photo editing capabilities and a strong social media presence are all assets.

Compensation and Terms

As a full time member of our Editorial team you'll be expected to work from our office near Queen and University from Monday to Friday during typical business hours (8am to 5pm) with alternate shifts on evenings and weekends a regular occurrence.

Payment is competitive with similar digital media jobs for someone with at least 2-4 years of experience. The initial contract length will be 3 months will the opportunity to extend the contract beyond this initial period.

As part of the evaluation process we'll be asking you to undertake a number of writing and/or editorial assignments that will help us better assess your capabilities. These will be compensated for.

STAFF WRITER

We're looking for writers able to contribute to the site on an ongoing/freelance basis. As a Staff Writer you'd be expected to contribute a minimum of 3 articles a week in one or more of the following subject areas: bars and nightlife, food and restaurants, outdoors, recreation and other summer-related content.

As a Staff Writer you should have an in depth knowledge of the city as well as the subjects you write about and be able to generate a regular flow of list-based and other article ideas.

PAN AM GAMES WRITER

Are you jazzed about the upcoming Pan Am Games in Toronto? We're looking for a freelance writer to contribute 10-20 articles to the site related to the Pan Am Games. Please note this does not involve coverage of the games or any of the sporting events but instead will involve a large dose of preview articles that function as guides and information for people attending as spectators.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested in applying for one of these roles? Just send an email to jobs [at] blogto [dotcom] with the following info:

• Send us a bit of information about yourself (how long you've lived in Toronto, what neighbourhoods you have lived in) and your education and work experience. A link to your Linked-In or CV and social media footprint (Instagram, Twitter) will be helpful here.
• Let us know why you're interested in this role, how soon you can start and how much compensation you would like to earn.
• Send us links to any relevant online content you've created that you think will wow us.
• Detail your technology prowess including what type of computer and O/S you use, your current smartphone model, photography and photo editing capabilities.
• Tell us what famous, living Torontonian you'd most like to sit next to on a plane and why.

In addition to the above please submit the following depending on what role you're applying for.

Events Editor

• A list of the 10 events you're most looking forward to this summer.
• A list of the 5 most recent events you attended (in order of enjoyment.)

Staff Writer

• A list of subject areas you'd like to write about for the site.
• Pitch us three articles you think would be a great fit for the site. Make sure to check we haven't already written about these topics.

Pan Am Games Writer

• Pitch at least five Pan Am Games related articles you'd want to contribute to the site.

Thanks in advance to everyone interested in applying for one of the above roles. We aim to respond to all applicants who send us a complete application as per the instructions above.

Photo by BruceK in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Today in Toronto it's time to get down to some good music. Tennis is playing at the Mod Club, Tame Impala is taking over Massey Hall, and Quiet Company will be doing a free show at The Horseshoe. If you'd rather dig into some serious issues, head over to Hot Docs for a live CANADALAND podcast featuring Jay Baruchel.

For more events, click on over to our events section.

Tennis (Mod Club)
Jesse and Jay Solve Canada: Live CANADALAND Podcast (Hot Docs Cinema)
Quiet Company (Horseshoe Tavern)
Trivia Club Tuesdays (Lou Dawg's)
Tame Impala (Massey Hall)
Lunacy Cabaret: PANEM Hunger Games (Centre of Gravity)

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

Photo of Tame Impala

This week on DineSafe, Amaya Express lands on the naughty list - surprisingly it's not one of the usual locations that find appear here frequently. Speaking of repeat offenders, Annex eatery Sakura Japanese is back, having earned its fifth conditional pass in two years.

Here are a few more restaurants listed on DineSafe this week.

Shox Billiards Lounge (2827 Dundas St. West)
Inspected on: May 11, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 1, Significant: 4)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Amaya Express (100 King St. West)
Inspected on: May 12, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 2, Significant: 1)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Sakura Japanese (394 Bloor St. West)
Inspected on: May 12, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 3 (Minor: 2, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to ensure premises cleaned to prevent food contamination

Chew Chew's Diner (168 Carlton St.)
Inspected on: May 13, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 4 (Minor: 2, Significant: 2)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Noodle Bowl (348 Bloor St. West)
Inspected on: May 13, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 1 (Significant: 1)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Chinese Dumpling House (623 Bloor St. West)
Inspected on: May 13, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 6 (Minor: 3, Significant: 2, Crucial: 1)
Crucial infractions include: Operator fail to ensure food is not contaminated/adulterated.

Rosewood Chinese Cuisine (463 Dundas St. West)
Inspected on: May 13, 2015
Inspection finding: Yellow (Conditional)
Number of infractions: 5 (Minor: 2, Significant: 3)
Crucial infractions include: N/A

Note: The above businesses each received infractions from DineSafe as originally reported on the DineSafe site. This does not imply that any of these businesses have not subsequently corrected the issue and received a passing grade by DineSafe inspectors. For the latest status for each of the mentioned businesses, including details on any subsequent inspections, please be sure to check the DineSafe site.

The Suicide Squad production was a little quiet when it started filming in Toronto, but that's changed over the last couple weeks as large scale shoots have been spotted around the city. None of them has, however, been quite as dramatic as the one that took over Yonge St. yesterday.

A section of the street north of College plays ground zero for a spectacular big-budget plane crash, complete with a severed tail fin that dwarfs the crew setting up the elaborate shot. The scale of the production is reminiscent of the scene witnessed when filming of the Incredible Hulk took over a section of Yonge St. further south back in 2007.

Unlike the Total Recall remake shot in Toronto in 2011, it's starting to seem like Suicide Squad will be one of those movies where the production's location is easy to spot for those who care to look. Yes, the whole thing is sure to get some serious editing and CGI work, but now we know what to look for when the movie hits the theatres in August 2016.

MORE PHOTOS

The folks behind St. Clair West's modern Indian restaurant Pukka are at it again. This sophomore effort is a French restaurant that embraces classic preparations with some unexpected additions, like sashimi and fried chicken.

Read my profile of Concession Road in the restaurants section.

Orangeville occupies that intermediary distance from Toronto in which it's no longer a suburb but still remains defined by the presence of the city to south. The heart of Dufferin County, it's a sleepy place to grow up where most kids pine to relocate to Toronto once they've saved enough money.

Here are 10 signs you grew up in Orangeville.

1. At least one of your scars has a story behind it that involves Murray's Mountain.

2. You know that the popper bottle was invented in Orangeville, no matter how apocryphal that claim to fame may be.

3. The only non-food related Italian in your vocabulary is "sans sordino."

4. All the high school bullies were lacrosse players.

5. You'll never trust the media because of how much it distorted "the ODSS Fight Club."

6. It took forever to take your G/G2 road test(s) because every other city books their students' road tests in Orangeville so they can avoid being tested on a real highway.

7. Private security has banned you from the Galaxy Cinema and Tim Hortons parking lots.

8. You regard Second Cup as one or all of the following: the height of urban sophistication; an impressive place to take your Plenty of Fish dates to; a cool job to have until you've saved enough money to move to Toronto.

9. While you've never met Orangeville's greatest sons, former WWE wrestlers the Edge and Christian Cage, you'll gladly tell anyone who'll listen which of their family members you've met. For the record, Christian's Dad was my grade seven gym teacher and the Edge's uncle was the manager at my first job.

10. No matter when you were born, you still speak with authority about the tornado of 1985.

Writing by Theo Marcoux.

Photo by Jean Not on Flickr.

Doors Open Toronto is back for its 16th year. On May 23 and 24, more than 155 buildings and institutions across the city will be inviting the great Canadian public inside for a look around.

In honour of the upcoming Pam Am Games, this year's theme is Sports, Recreation and Leisure, and there are a preponderance of stadiums and other athletic sites on offer, including BMO Field and the Toronto Track and Field Centre.

Here are my picks for the top buildings to see at Doors Open Toronto 2015.

NEW THIS YEAR

TTC Greenwood Complex
The central service yard for the Bloor-Danforth subway is turning 50 this year. To celebrate, the TTC is offering transit enthusiasts the chance to explore the various workshops that make up the complex and take a ride through the special train washing machine. A children's activity area and a BBQ are also part of the offerings. Saturday only, 11-5.

BMO Field
Recently expanded to seat 30,000 spectators ahead of the Pan Am Games, BMO Field, the backdrop to the never-ending drama of Toronto F.C., is opening its back-of-house to the public via a self-guided tour. An exhibit on the history of the sports at Exhibition Place will also be on display. Sunday only, 10-5.

Amsterdam Brewery
See the source of some of Toronto's best loved brews by visiting Amsterdam's new facility in Leaside. The building, of course, comes second to the selection of craft beer that's on offer free of charge: Natural Blonde Lager, Boneshaker IPA, the new Cruiser All Day Pale Ale, and more. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5. Bring ID.

The National Club
Many prominent Torontonians have been members of the National Club including Architect E. J. Lennox, department store magnates Timothy Eaton and Robert Simpson. The private members-only club, established in 1874, invites the public to look around the clubhouse, see the rooftop patio, and wine cellar. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

The Aga Khan Museum
New for 2015, the stunning Aga Khan Museum, which opened in September 2014 at 77 Wynford Dr., is offering visitors a chance to poke around for free both days of the Doors Open weekend. See the courtyard, auditorium, and a selection of ceramics from the permanent collection. The new Aga Khan Park is also open for inspection. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

York Railway Modellers
One of the largest model railways in Southern Ontario is hidden away on Oakland Ave. Based on the Toronto of the 1950s, the 23-year-old railway includes historically accurate locomotives, freight cars, and scenery. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

Ismaili Centre Toronto
Explore the gorgeous, otherworldly new Ismaili Centre on Wynford Dr. Guided tours of the prayer hall, atrium, social hall, social hall, terrace, and garden are on offer, and so too is an expert-led tour of Aga Khan Park. Photography is not allowed inside the prayer hall.Saturday and Sunday, 10-4.

OLD FAVOURITES

The Arts & Letters Club of Toronto
This historic institution dedicated to the furtherance of artistic endeavours is still open to private members, but for one day only the public is allowed to walk its storied halls and peruse its unique art collection which includes paintings by the Group of Seven. Sunday only, 10-5.

Canada Life
The ever-popular Canada Life building is returning to the Doors Open program for another year. The line ups will be long, but patient visitors will get a chance to see the 17th floor observation room and explore the historic lobby area. (Ask nicely and the person manning the front desk will give you a card explaining how to read the famous rooftop weather beacon.) Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

Legislative Assembly of Ontario
It's not always easy to get inside Queen's Park (security tends to be tight,) so Doors Open is an excellent opportunity to explore the beautiful Ontario legislature building. Guided tours on both days will call at the Legislative Chamber and move through historic hallways. Interior photography is allowed without a tripod. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

The Masonic Temple
Led Zeppelin, the Ramones, David Bowie, Rolling Stones, and Frank Sinatra all played the Masonic Temple. Most recently the home of MTV Canada, the venue is now owned by an IT company, but Doors Open guests will be allowed to see the main auditorium, posters, records, and other music memorabilia. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

Old and New City Hall
Toronto's historic city hall, now home to court rooms and offices, is well worth exploring. Check out the main lobby with its grand staircase and take in Courtroom 121 - the former council chamber. At New City Hall, snap photos from the disused rooftop observation deck, drop by the mayor's office, and explore the council chamber. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5 (both.)

Osgoode Hall
The 183-year-old home of the Law Society of Upper Canada is one of the city's oldest surviving buildings and its interior is exquisitely detailed. Pose for photos in legal robes and visit the Law Society library where Berlin-based artists Hadley+Maxwell will be working on a Pan Am legacy project. Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

Redpath Sugar Ltd.
One of the Toronto waterfront's last surviving industrial concerns, Redpath Sugar receives and processes thousands of tons of the sweet stuff every year. During Doors Open, visitors will be allowed to see the massive raw sugar shed where Redpath keeps its product prior to processing and enter the sugar museum. Saturday, 10-5, and Sunday, 10-4.

Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library
The Thomas Fisher Rare Book library is a priceless repository that contains some 700,000 volumes and 3,000 linear metres of manuscript. It's also home to the University of Toronto's archival holdings. But it's the library itself that is something to behold: six floors of books looking down over an open exhibition area. Saturday only, 10-5.

See here for a full list of participating buildings or here for a map.

CONTEST

Submit your photos of this year's Doors Open Toronto for a chance to win a $300 gift certificate from Henry's Canada. Just upload your photos to our Doors Open Toronto stream or tag them with #blogtodot15 on Instagram. The submission deadline is midnight on May 24th. Starting May 25th and running through June 1st we'll showcase 10 finalists where a reader vote will decide the top three. Prizes include:

• 1st place: $300 gift certificate to Henry's Canada.
• 2nd place: $150 gift certificate to Henry's Canada.
• 3rd place: $50 gift certificate to Henry's Canada.

Note: all photos must be of a 2015 Doors Open Toronto venue and taken on May 23rd or 24th, 2015.

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

Images: Jack Landau, Amsterdam Brewery, Michael Woloszynowicz/Doors Open, Benson Kua, Greg David, Jackman Chiu, aida_dasilva, John Leschinski/blogTO Flickr pool.

A townhouse like this one at 29 Webster Avenue is not your average historical Victorian that tend to dot Yorkville. This brick complex is relatively modest in comparison, less elaborate, and located on a narrow, one-way street near Avenue Road and Davenport.

The three-storey structure listed for just over $3 million is more designer than you'd expect from the outside. There's plenty of space at 3,400 square feet with high-end perks and curated fixtures like the expensive kitchen lighting from this place.

There's chandeliers in the marble bathroom, multiple walk-in closets, and a master retreat and a rooftop patio. There's an espresso bar directly across the street, several others within walking distance and a Whole Foods in the Hazelton Lanes Shopping Centre.

The upscale townhouse was previously listed for $2,995,000 in 2012, and returns to the market with the same class, and a little more pocket change. Is the property worth the asking? See what you think.

SPECS

• Address: 29 Webster Avenue
• Price: $3,195,000
• Lot Size: 22 x 100 FT
• Bedrooms: 3+1
• Bathrooms: 3
• Parking: 1
• Taxes: $14,722 (2014)
• Walk Score: 98

NOTABLE FEATURES

• Approx. 3,400 square feet
• Three-storey townhouse
• Master with fireplace & walk-in closest
• Finished basement
• Backyard patio
• Rooftop deck
• Attached garage

GOOD FOR

There's not much to do with the house. Move-in ready, landscaped gardens and overall low maintenance property. You might choose to paint the brightly coloured rooms but it's nothing a little Benjamin Moore can't fix.

MOVE ON IF

There's a development proposal and a long vacant lot right next door. Seems like the proposed 14-storey condo will likely happen in the future, but not without neighbour opposition. Plus, you can't make a left from Webster Avenue during high traffic times. Not that you'd want to make a left onto a main street like Avenue, but it's nice to have the option.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOSRead other posts in this series via our House of the Week Pinterest board.

Thanks to Bosley Real Estate Ltd, Brokerage for sponsoring our House of the Week. All content and editorial selected and written by blogTO.

Photo by Jonathan Castellino in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Today in Toronto it's time to play some games at Boards and Brews, hosted by Black Cat Espresso Bar. Or if it's kitsch you're after, check out the book launch for 73s & 88s, a collection of greeting cards distributed by HAM radio operators. If you'd rather take in some live music, head to the Mod Club to see Allie X, ANAMAI and Anamalia take the stage or go over to The Horseshoe to catch Faiyez and the Wasted Chances.

For more events, click on over to our events section.

• Red Bull Sound Select Presents: Toronto ft. Allie X, ANAMAI, Animalia (Mod Club)
• Boards and Brews (Black Cat Espresso Bar)
• Fairmount Park Farmers' Market (Fairmount Park)
• GO TO YOUR ROOM Comedy Show (120 Diner)
• Faiyaz and the Wasted Chances (Horseshoe Tavern)
• 73s & 88s Book Launch Party (SMASH)

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

Photo of a QSL card from 73s & 88s

A major Andy Warhol exhibit is coming to Toronto this summer, but you won't find it at the AGO or the ROM. Put on by Beverley Hills-based Revolver Gallery, the show will take place in the unremarkable commercial space at 77 Bloor St. West. It's an odd venue, to be sure, but the exhibit promises to be a hot ticket.

Although Revolver hasn't released much official information beyond the name (Andy Warhol Revisited: A Mirror for Today) and dates (it opens July 1), a job posting does reveal a few more details, the most crucial of which is that this is being described as the largest Canadian exhibition of Warhol's work.

Given the AGO hosted a significant Warhol show curated by David Cronenberg back in 2006, the scale of this show certainly sounds promising. And, really, the artist is best seen this way, with a bit of pomp and glory written into the exhibition.

Pricing information hasn't been released, but you can expect this to be a ticketed event. The show is slated to run until late December.

Update (10:30am): Ticket info has been released from Revolver, and is as follows: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+), $5 for students (full-time with ID) and youth (6 to 17), and kids (under 5) are free.

In a summer packed with music festivals, the stakes have been raised on how to differentiate one from the other. While the lineup is still any festival's main marketing strategy, it's no longer enough when the circuit has become so saturated with big ticket bands playing on multiple stages.

Case in point: WayHome Festival already boasts a lineup that includes Neil Young, Kendrick Lemar, St. Vincent, and Modest Mouse (to name only a few of the acts set to perform in Oro-Medonte this July), but it's making a big push to showcase its food offerings prior to the festival.

Teaming with the Drake Hotel and its affiliate properties, WayHome will feature a number of the restaurant's most popular dishes in addition to special initiatives like Fish Camp (a seafood-focused pop up), and Drake Fiesta and BBQ, which will alternately offer made-to-order tacos and smokey ribs and chicken thighs.

There will even be a mixology stand serving up cocktails. That could be a potential nightmare in terms of lineups (don't expect drinks made to order), but also a departure from the standard craft beer offerings. Will cocktails actually prove to be popular? That's up for debate, but it's interesting to witness the effort to being put into the food and drink.

We've complained before that food festivals need to do more with their entertainment offerings, but it would appear the trend goes both ways. There's only so much money one can devote to summer music festivals, and WayHome is betting that gourmet food options will sway would-be festival goers in its direction.

Now in its 16th year, the annual Doors Open festival has given millions of Torontonians the chance to discover parts of the city that are often closed to the public. In total, more than 450 Toronto buildings have participated over the last decade and a half, making it one of the most popular events of its kind in the world.

Still, despite all the excellent places to snoop around this year, there are numerous buildings in Toronto that still remain firmly closed to the public. Often there are safety or security concerns, but in several cases the necessary accommodations could be made with a little creative thinking.

Here are 5 buildings we wish were part of Doors Open, but probably never will be.

The Whitney Block
Opened in the 1930s, the central tower of the Whitney Block (pictured above) on the east side of Queens Park Crescent is an overlooked Toronto architectural wonder.

Disused since 1968 due to a troubling lack of fire escapes, the sixteen-storey tower resembles Commerce Court North on King St. and is ornately decorated with sculptures depicting justice, tolerance, wisdom and power. Others show mining, farming, forestry, finance, law, and education. The public isn't allowed inside. Not even for a peek.

Commerce Court North
The banking hall is impressive, no doubt, but the part of the building everyone really wants to see is the rooftop observation deck.

Though it has ostensibly been closed for safety reasons since the 1960s, CIBC does occasionally grant access to visitors. The panoramic view has been obscured somewhat by architect I. M. Pei's Commerce Court West tower, but those giant sculpted heads are what everyone really wants to see up close.

TTC Transit Control
The Toronto Transit Commission manages the entire subway--trains, signals, switches, and more--from a secure control room kept hidden from the prying eyes of the public. We occasionally catch glimpses of it via B-roll during the TTC's explainer videos, but otherwise the high-tech control room is shrouded in mystery.

The Scotia Plaza bullion vault
The deepest basement in downtown Toronto is home to a dazzling bounty. Shelves of solid gold bars line the Scotiabank bullion vault under the bank's red Napoleon granite Toronto headquarters.

As you might expect, the bank doesn't allow visitors and generally won't discus what's down there, or how much it's all worth. An urban vault belonging to Scotiabank was destroyed during 9/11. The value of the gold and silver bars recovered from the wreckages was about $200 million.

AGO art vault
There are more than 73,000 works in the Art Gallery of Ontario's collection, and most of it is stored in a high-security facility on Dundas St. The AGO used to let its members in for a nose around, but there are no plans to do so in the future.

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

Image: Michael Harvie, Marcanadian, James Anok, Peter Crock/blogTO Flickr pool.

Markham has no shortage of office buildings and with that comes a healthy supply of amazing lunch spots to service the working masses. With restaurants crossing countless cuisines, there's no reason to be bored with your lunch in Markham.

Here are my picks for the top lunch spots in Markham.

Ding Tai Fung
Ding Tai Fung is a Markham staple that should be given landmark status. Delicious handmade soup dumplings, Shanghai noodles and other Shanghainese classics make for the perfect lunch, particularly on a cold day

Pitalicious
The best shawarma in Markham has people lining up at Pitalicious. Their homemade garlic sauce is seriously life changing (be sure to ask for extra) and their daily specials consisting of authentic Middle Eastern dishes provide great value at around $7-$10.

Nonna's Original Italian sandwiches and Ristorante
Italian sandwiches the size of your head, fresh wood fired pizza, and homemade lasagne are mainstays at Nonna's. Lauded by many as the best Italian eats in Markham, this is a must for your next Italian meal.

Sogong-Dong Tofu House
Sogong-Dong dishes up a mean bowl of soon tofu. Bowls of silky tofu with your choice of accompaniments and purple rice provide a nice portion for lunch. Lunch sets including Kallbi (beef short ribs) or Bulgogi to go with your tofu soup are also available.

Shiso Tree Café
Located in J-Town, Shiso Tree is putting a Japanese twist on Italian fare. With Unagi and Okonomiyaki pasta, and french fries topped with Japanese ingredients this place is truly an original. Lunch specials start at $8, making this an ideal spot for lunch on a budget.

Osaka Sushi
Sushi lunch specials are something that I rely on, and at Osaka they provide options galore. Lunch specials range from $8-$14 and include udon, sushi/maki combos and bento boxes. Sushi here is always fresh and will not leave you disappointed.

Little Bangkok
This little gem on Markham's Main St. serves up a vast selection of lunch specials. Thai favourites are available for lunch for $7.99-$8.99. All dishes are accompanied by rice, soup, and a spring roll. Quality and value make this a must for the lunch crowd.

Cucina Locale
This cozy Italian joint serves real deal Italian sandwiches, pasta's, and gourmet pizzas. The sandwiches provide the best value at $8-10 each but the fresh pizzas should not be overlooked.

Pho Pad Thai
Whether you're after a hot bowl of pho or a spicy Thai curry, Pho Pad Thai will have something for you. With lightning fast service and budget-friendly pricing, it's hard to go wrong here.

Michael Angelo's Marketplace
Michael Angelo's Marketplace is newly renovated and better than ever. The lunch options here are bountiful with an extensive hot table rotating daily with everything from Italian to Chinese cuisine. The extensive salad bar provides a healthy alternative for lunch.

Is your favourite lunch spot not on the list? Add your pick for the best lunch spot in Markham in the comments.

Prince really threw Toronto for a loop back in November 2014 when hundreds lined up around Massey Hall, waiting for a show that never happened -- and in the rain, no less. An explanation from the elusive superstar was never offered, though his backing band, 3rdeyegirl, did release a statement attempting to smooth things over.

"We love and thank our fans in Toronto. To all those who lined up and traveled in to the city for tickets, we hope to see you soon and are looking forward to bringing our show to Toronto in the future."

Fortunately that statement was as much a promise as an apology, and the future arrived when Prince hit the stage for the first of two performances at the Sony Centre last night. I suspect more than a few people were worried something would go awry prior to getting their hands on tickets.

"Log Out. What happens on this stage will be truly magical," a soothing voice says from behind the curtain as the show gets started.

Apparently tonight is not a night to atone for past sins. There are 'magical' moments to be had and, yes, they are guaranteed.

Prince has never gone for the predictable. That he'd open the show with a set of tracks that cater to his new band's heavier leanings, wasn't how you'd expect the night to start but also wasn't entirely surprising. From the first chords of "Wow" off 2014's PlectrumElectrum, the crowd was with him and holding on for dear life.

Jam-y at the best of times, and in the best of possible ways, Prince has surrounded himself with some jaw-dropping talent. Often characterized as a control freak, he let the others do a lot of heavy lifting including Toronto guitarist, Donna Grantis, who figured heavily in the solo department. How good a guitarist do you have to be for Prince to let you play his iconic solo from Purple Rain? Exactly.

Ending the first set with an Edgar Winter-inspired stoner rock version of "Let's Go Crazy," (which somehow really did work), Prince playfully directed us back to his most prolific period.

After an obligatory exit was followed by obligatory chants for an encore (as if he was going anywhere), he came back seated behind at a piano. A soulful version of the Elvis Classic "Love Me Tender" was, once again, not something any one expected to hear, especially when it fed into his equally soulful "The Beautiful Ones" off landmark album, Purple Rain.

What followed was an unprecedented hit parade ("How many hits I got," he joked mid-set) composed of all his career highlights, from the psych-pop of "Raspberry Beret" to the electro protest anthem that is "Sign O' The Times" to the scathing indictment of avian tears "When Doves Cry."

Ending the show with a heart-worn version of "Nothing Compares 2 U," Prince thanked us all for coming out to share this night.

He didn't have to mention the word "magical."

Photos by Cindy Ord / NPG Records