Weekend events in Toronto not only begin with TIFF. Sure there are piles of parties and screenings and street closure activities, but there are also a handful of other festivals - food, culture and music related - to blow your mind. If you thought summer was over and your calendar was going to slow down, please think again you crazy person!

There's too much good stuff out there to ignore. Here are my picks for the top weekend events in Toronto.

FESTIVALS

TIFF (Until September 18)
Not only had the Film Festival started and un-officially taken the city prisoner, but there's also the Festival Street closure, these top 5 can't miss events and then these 45 must-see movies. Godspeed.

Manifesto Launch party with Boi-1da (September 9, Mascot Brewery)
The city's most inspiring festival just turned 10 years old and to celebrate they're launching 10 days of events, starting with this Mascot Brewery building takeover and dance bash lead by Boi-1da and a mountain of amazing local talent.

Taste of the Kingsway (September 9-11, Bloor Street West between Prince Edward Drive and Montgomery Rd)
Probably the final outdoor Taste event of the year, this mega street closure features over 200 exhibitors, two stages of entertainment, midway rides, beer gardens, all that good family fun stuff (or bad stuff depending on how you look at it).

Destination Thailand (September 10, Yonge-Dundas Square)
If you've been lucky enough to travel to Thailand you know how magical this part of the world is, both culturally and culinarily. Thai food, dances, beer and massages. Enough said.

Cabbagetown Festival (September 10-11, Cabbagetown)
This neighbourhood street party turns 40 this year and they're not holding back in celebrating. Art, vendors, food and drink, a nearby park, stages of actually cool entertainment. Head to this one if you have a few hours to stroll, and catch the vibe a neighbourhood outside your bubble.

Ossington Village Alleyway Party (September 11, Alleyway between Foxley and Argyle)
From 2-10pm, head to this street off of Ossington for some live music, folk dancing and general hanging out. It's completely free, nothing is for sale, there are no vendors and you're encouraged to bring your own food and drinks to share. There will be a hat passed around to help pay for the porta-potties.

One More Night Festival (September 11-18, The Commons)
A week of theatre from across Ontario happening at a brand new theatre space called The Commons on Richmond Street. Check out the official website for the full schedule. Lots of fun independent theatre to be had.

MUSIC

Rodriguez (September 11, Massey Hall)
If you don't know Rodriguez is, hurry up and go watch Searching for Sugar Man. You'll be won over instantly by this artist who was too often forgotten or pushed to the side. He's an incredible folk singer and this Massey Hall show will be one for the books.

• Alex Skolnick Trio (September 9, The Garrison)
• Dolly Parton (September 9, Molson Amphitheatre)
• Toronto Bicycle Music Festival (September 10, Evergreen Brickworks)

FOOD

Toronto Veg Food Fest (September 9-11, Harbourfront Centre)
Vegans and Vegetarians come together down by the water for this weekend-long celebration of all things meatless! Along with all the yummy food and drinks there will also be talks, demos, and music.

Junk Food Fest (Septmber 9-11,Toronto Star Building)
On the opposite side of the food spectrum there is this food fest. We can guarantee there is very little vegetarianism happening here. Lots of bacon and grease and creative snacks to make your mouth water and your stomach rumble. Entrance is free and it's brought to you by the Mac and Cheese Fest team.

Revel Food BBQ Pop Up (September 11, The Beaver)
A much more low-key food event compared to others this weekend, the Revel food duo host a pop up BBQ on The Beaver patio. If you've been to this adorable back space, you know it's small and cozy, so get there early and plan to hang out for karaoke later.

ART

Duane Linklater's From Our Hands (September 9-November 5, Mercer Union)
"Working across installation, performance, film, and photography, Duane Linklater excavates histories to unearth folds and knots addressing cultural loss, recovery and sovereignty." Exploring Indigenous imagery inscribed within Canadian identity, this is one not to miss.

2016/17 Xpace Programming Launch feat. bizZarh (September 9, Xspace Cultural Centre)
Free early-fall party and 2016/17 launch bash with BizZarh, and DJs Ben Ong and Amy Wong. Even more exciting is in the main space a think piece from Bonerkill called What would the community think?

SPORT

14th annual Board Meeting (September 9, St Clair and Yonge)
This is an annual event to help stoke the sport, local artist and the longboarding community. Hundreds of people gather at St Clair and Yonge dressed in white shirts and ties to bomb Yonge street - i.e. take it over and ride down it! So fun.

The Hockey Show (September 10-11, Downsview Park)
Hockey lovers, fans and admirers, this two-day puck love-in is for you. A big sporting event showcasing products and services, the newest trends for 2016, product demonstrations and skill enhancement workshops.

DANCING

Beam Me Up: Four Years of Disco (September 10, The Piston)
The city's best disco party turns four this weekend. The Digital Needle duo together with Cyclist have been filling with piston with amazing disco classics, rarities and edits you didn't even know our booty loved. If you just want to set yourself free and dance like noone is watching, this party is the one.

• Soft Stroke (September 9, Bambii's)
• Fuck It (September 9, Clinton's)
• Skank Top (September 9, The Steady)
• Cafe Cubano (September 9, Lula Lounge)
• Art Department (September 9, Maison Mercer)
• Steers and Queers Dolly Parton after party (September 9, Lipstick and Dynamite)
• Dutty Reggae Dancehall with Choppa Chop and Pressure Drop! (September 9, Rivoli)
• John Acquaviva (September 10, Bambi's)
• Jukebox meltdown - 60's soul party (September 10, Swan Dive)
• Business Woman's Special: Hello Dolly! (September 10, Round)
• IRemember (September 10, Miss Thing's)
• Pop Machine: 6 year anniversary (September 10, WAYLA)
• Ghost Emoji Presents: Lockah (September 10, Double Double Land)
• Trust x Summerdaze Season Closing (September 11, Steamwhistle Brewery)

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events section and have a great weekend!

Photo of TIFF Festival Street by dtstuff from the blogTO Flickr pool.

Next Friday, Nordstrom's Canadian flagship store at CF Eaton Centre will officially open its doors to the public at 10 a.m. The U.S. department store took over the old Sears flagship; after a 2.5 year (read: multi-million dollar) renovation, it's safe to say the 220,000 square foot space is now completely unrecognizable.

Read my profile of Toronto's first Nordstrom in the fashion section.

TIFF has arrived in Toronto, and with it last call has been extended all over the city to allow for late night hobnobbing, deal-brokering, and post-film celebrating. As usual, the concentration of restaurants and bars serving until 4 a.m. is concentrated in the vicinity of the Lightbox, but there's a few options further afield as well.

Here are the 35 bars with 4 a.m. extended last call for TIFF 2016.

• Windsor Arms (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Shangri-La (September 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 2016)
• UG3 Live (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• The Monarch (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Spoke Club (September 8 to 17, 2016)
• Storys (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Remingtons (September 8, 9, 10, 11, and 15,16, 17,18, 2016)
• Figo (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Patria (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Spice Route (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• CIBO (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Weslodge (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Bovine (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Bambi's (September 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16, 17, 2016)
• A La Carte at the Gardiner (September 11, 2016)
• The Paddock (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Studio Bar (September 10, 2016)
• Ritz-Carlton (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Lavelle (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Fifth Social Club (September 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 2016)
• The Fifth (September 11, 12, and 16, 2016)
• Garrison (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• EFS (September 8, 9, 10, 11, and 14, 15, 16, 2016)
• Kasa Moto (September 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 15, 2016)
• Early Mercy (September 8, 9, 10 and 14, 15, 16, 17, 2016)
• Four Seasons (September 8, 9, 10 and 14, 15, 16, 17, 2016)
• Stirling Room (September 9, 10, 16, 17, 2016)
• Drake (September 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15, 2016)
• The Hideout (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Wayward (September 9, 10, 11 and 16, 17, 2016)
• Same Club (September 8, 9, 10, and 15, 16, 17, 2016)
• Thompson Toronto (September 8 to 18, 2016)
• Bloke & 4th (September 9, 10, 11, and 13, 14, and 16, 17, 18, 2016)
• Muzik (September 10 and 17, 2016)
• Forty 2 Supper Club (September 8, 10, 16, 17, 2016)

This represents establishments approved to serve until 4 a.m. during TIFF 2016 by the AGCO. They don't have to exercise that right on each night, so it's always best to called ahead to confirm.

Photo of Wayward by Jesse Milns.

TIFF has officially kicked off and a number of A-list celebrities have landed in Toronto for the ten day festival. Movies may be the showcase of the festival but spotting celebrities comes with the fun. So far a number of stars have already been spotted at the airport, parties and hotels.

Here are some celebs that have already been spotted in Toronto.

Top photo by Serena Tung.

All The Best Fine Foods, the Toronto retailer that specialized in fancy, schmancy groceries and prepared foods, has shut down after 32 years on Yonge Street.

While the Yonge Street store is closed for good, All The Best's second location, at 483 Church St., will remain open. This storefront, along with its production kitchen at 105 Vanderhoof, is now under the Summerhill Market management.

"All The Best has been setting the bar for gourmet cheeses, breads and pastries in Toronto for 30 years, so we are very excited to combine the best from both our stores," says Summerhill Market owner Brad McMullen in a news release.

And don't fret, signature products from All The Best Fine Foods will still be available despite this change in ownership.

The 41st annual Toronto International Film Festival is finally here, along with hordes of Hollywood's brightest stars (hello, Fassbender et. al.). And while TIFF is all about the glitz and glamour, you don't have to shell out wads of cash to participate in the action. Instead of dealing with high ticket prices and endlessly long rush lines, go to a free event instead!

Here are 8 ways to enjoy TIFF 2016 for free.

Visit TIFF Festival Street (Sept. 8-11)
For TIFF's opening weekend, it's shutting down King Street between University and Peter. While this sucks for those who rely on the 504, it's a huge boon for the rest of the city. If (and when) you visit, be sure to eat at a food truck, catch a concert (featuring local bands and artists) and pick up free swag from the festival's many corporate sponsors.

Go celeb-spotting (Sept. 8-18)
Station yourself behind the barricades at a red carpet premiere or in front of one of Toronto's most luxurious hotels (think the Ritz, the Shangri-La, the Four Seasons and the Hazleton). If you're lucky, you might even get a selfie with your favourite star.

See some art and arthouse films (Sept. 8-18)
The TIFF Wavelength program includes films and film-related artwork. There free are exhibitions at 99 Sudbury, Gallery TPW and Contact Gallery as well as free screenings at the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

Catch an 80s movie screening (Sept. 8-11, Festival Street)
Head to the Slaight Music Stage on Festival Street to watch some of the greatest movies from the 1980s. The stacked lineup includes Labyrinth, The Man Trap and Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Check out the Pharrell Williams Concert (Sept. 10, Festival Street)
Grammy Award winner Pharrell Williams will keep Festival Street happy on Saturday as he serenades audiences with a free concert following the Hidden Figures sneak peek.

Spend a night with John Legend (September 13, Bloor Hot Docs Cinema)
Industry heavyweights John Legend and Mark Duplass will help Toronto celebrate this year's slate of Vanguard films with a free event at the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. Show up early for first come, first served access to this party that'll features music, cocktails and food.

Party it up (Sept. 8-18)
Sure, TIFF has plenty of A-list-only, hoity-toity parties and events, but there are plenty for the rest off us schlubs too. DEQ at the Ritz Carlton is open to the public (for free), but if you don't want to drink at a hotel bar, lots of venues have 4 a.m. over the next two week.

Line up for the Grolsch People's Choice Award Screening (Sept. 18, Roy Thomson Hall)
As a democratic festival, the people get to crown one lucky movie with this prestigious award. See the chosen film for free on Sunday evening. TIFF will be handing out tickets two hours before the 6 p.m. screening.

Photo by Jesse Milns.

Tickets for the Toronto International Film Festival aren't too hard to come by. You can either buy a package, grab individual tickets or if you're spontaneous, wait in rush lines for your must-see movies.

But this year, TIFF is changing up its ticketing process by using Ticketmaster. While this makes it easier to snag individual tickets to high-profile screenings and premieres and enables festival goers to use mobile tickets, it has also led to some confusion.

One perk of being a TIFF member, for instance, is the ease at which you can exchange tickets (for free) either online, over the phone or in person at the members box office (a great little spot that usually has no line!). But for 2016, that's not the case if you buy your tickets via Ticketmaster.

"TIFF customers including members who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster.ca must call Ticketmaster customer service for any exchanges," says Jennifer Bell, TIFF's vice president of marketing, communications, digital media and creative via email.

I learned the hard way when I tried to change some of my tickets yesterday. And according to a membership representative I spoke with at the box office, I wasn't the only one miffed by this changeup.

When I called Ticketmaster to try to switch one of my movies, a customer service rep told me there's usually a $7 charge per ticket for these type of exchanges. Thankfully, she offered to waive the fee.

Yet along with this relatively minor mix up, the Globe and Mail writes that ticket prices appear more expensive this year because TIFF adopted "demand-based" or surge prices. If a movie's super popular or selling out, an extra $2 to $7 (plus a $2 service fee) might be slapped on to the starting ticket price - which sits at $25 for regular screenings and $49 for premium events, such as premieres.

"The starting price of a regular festival screening ticket - $25 - remains status quo to last year, and the bulk of the tickets for each screening will still be sold at this rate. Prices will increase with demand, only when the screening is near capacity," a TIFF spokesperson told the Globe.

This year, tickets maxed out at $58, which as the Globe writes, is a hefty price for a screening, especially for one run by a non-profit organization.

Although that doesn't seem to be stopping movie goers. Tickets are currently being resold on site like Craigslist, Kijiji and Stub Hub, often for much higher than face value. People will clearly pay big bucks to get in on glitz and glamour.

And hopefully, TIFF will figure out it's ticket-related mishaps by next year. But at the end of the day, controversy is all just part of the Hollywood North experience.

When new hotels open in Toronto, it's a pretty big deal and over the past few years, we've seen some big projects pop up. Meanwhile, there are a number of other hotels in development, including some that have been rumoured for quite a while.

Here are the newest hotels in Toronto and some that are coming soon.

NEWEST

The Saint James Hotel
The Saint James, at Yonge and Gerrard, is centrally located and relatively affordable, considering it's smack dab in the middle of downtown. Sure, it may not be as swanky as other hotels, but it features a modern interior, comfy beds and on site parking.

Delta Toronto
This massive hotel is right by Ripley's Aquarium, the Rogers Centre and of course, the CN Tower. It boasts great views and has a pool, fitness centre and spa if you need to relax after a long day spent running through the 6ix.

COMING SOON

Bisha Hotel and Residences
This project by club king Charles Khabouth (of Ink Entertainment fame) is under construction at 56 Blue Jays Way right in the heart of the Entertainment District. At 44 storeys, this tower will feature condos, hotel suites and most likely, lots and lots of parties.

The Broadview Hotel
The Broadview Hotel (and Jilly's of course) is currently being restored by Streetcar Developments. When it's ready to reopen, it'll feature nearly 60 rooms and a slew of other amenities (like a rooftop bar) that'll appeal to both locals and guests alike.

Hotel X
There's finally going to be a luxury hotel at Exhibition Place. The 30-storey Hotel X will include 400 suites, a 71,000 square-foot sports club and a rooftop pool. After numerous set backs, it's now supposed to open in 2017.

The Ace Hotel
The City of Toronto received a development application for a 14 storey, 130 room hotel at 41-51 Camden St., in King West. And, earlier this summer, the city started looking at the feasibility of turning some of the nearby thoroughfares into one-way streets. Could the The Ace Hotel's Toronto invasion be imminent?

Jarvis and Shuter
As Urban Toronto reports, there's a new development application in the works for the northeast corner of Jarvis and Shuter. Dubbed the Manga Hotels project, this proposal wants to see a 35-storey tower with 242 hotel suites and 227 residential units above soar above what's now an empty parking lot.

Image via Hotel X.

A three-bedroom penthouse in Festival Towers has hit the market, and one which comes with celebrity-owned bragging rights. Producer Ivan Reitman currently resides here, of Ghostbusters and Animal House fame, and is selling off his $2.5-million penthouse to one lucky buyer.

The house in the sky is situated above the TIFF Bell Lightbox, which also comes with Reitman family heritage, as the $22-million piece of land was donated by the family to Toronto's beloved film festival. The 41-storey glass towers were developed by The Daniels Corporation and designed by KPMB Architects, offering film lovers the best real estate in the city.

Located in the heart of the entertainment district, this building boasts 5-star amenities and services, including a rooftop terrace, indoor pool, laundry services, housekeeping and even dog walking for your four legged friend. If you want in on the celebrity action during TIFF, this abode will surely do the trick.

SPECS

• Address: 80 King Street #UP 04
• Price: $2,598,800
• Square Feet: 2,600
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 4
• Parking: 1
• Maintenance Fee: $2,209
• Walk Score: 100
• Listing agent: Steven Green
• Listing ID: C3513390

NOTABLE FEATURES

GOOD FOR

Film-lovers looking to be in the thick of it. With the only condo building in Canada that has a state-of-the-art 55-seat cinema, you'll have access to plenty of film screenings, parties and theatre popcorn at your doorstep.

MOVE ON IF

You want a larger private patio to entertain. While you can't beat the south-facing view, you certainly won't fit an entire film crew on your patio.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

What do you think about this Festival Tower penthouse? Let us know in the comments.

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

TIFF is all about the parties for some. This year, last call at many Toronto bars has once again been pushed back to 4 a.m. making it easier to hit up multiple venues in one evening. And along with the usual early morning debauchery, there are plenty of black tie galas and other exclusive events for you to try to sneak your way into.

Here's our TIFF party guide for 2016.

HOT SPOTS

Mongrel House (Sept. 8-14, Campbell House)
For the second year in a row, Canadian distributor Mongrel Media is transforming the Campbell House into one of the city's coolest party venues (for history nerds, that is). This year's iteration will include a night market and music from local bands, like Dear Rouge.

Bungalow 8 pop-up (Sept. 8-10, Thompson Hotel Rooftop)
New York nightclub Bungalow 8 will take over the Thompson's rooftop for the first three nights of the festival. In the past, this pop-up has attracted lots of celebs because who doesn't appreciate a good view of the skyline?

Villa Azure (Sept. 8-11, The Spoke Club)
This Miami-based restaurant making its way to Toronto with a three-day residency at the Spoke Club. Events include a dinner party and a rooftop brunch.

NKPR IT House x Producers Ball (Sept. 8-12, 128 Peter St.)
PR firm NKPR and the Producers Ball are behind this 7,000 square foot, two-storey lounge that'll host celebrities and other guests for the first five days of the festival.

Hyde Beach Miami (Sept. 8-11, Wildflower)
Along with Hollywood, Miami's getting a lot of attention at the festival. The Hyde Beach Miami club will bring the southern Florida vibes to Toronto during TIFF's opening weekend.

Soho House (Sept. 18-18)
This members-only club is a favourite amongst Toronto's (and Hollywood's) elite - probably because you're not supposed to take photos inside. Expect it to be hopping with after-parties throughout TIFF.

SEPTEMBER 8

TIFF at the DEQ Terrace & Lounge
The Ritz Carlton might be filled with celebrity guests, but that shouldn't stop you from heading on to the patio for a drink (or two or three).

SEPTEMBER 9

Wake Up, Shake Up (Addisons Residence)
Thankfully, this isn't an early morning rave, but rather a yoga class hosted by Vega. Lauren Toyota will be there along with musician Rich Aucoin. So get to the Addisons for 6:30 a.m. and stretch your hangover away

Catfight after-party (STK)
American steakhouse STK isn't open just yet, but it's hosting a slew of TIFF parties, including this one for the new Sandra Oh, Anne Heche and Alicia Silverstone feature.

SEPTEMBER 10

Moët Mansion Party Pop-Up (Candyland)
This high-end champagne brand will take over Candyland on Saturday night. As per usual, it'll feature live entertainment, along with food, drinks and dancing.

Entertainment Weekly Must List Party (Thompson Hotel)
Entertainment Weekly's annual party usually attracts a slew of celebrities. Last year, A-listers like Julianne Moore, Sandra Bullock and Matt Damon all made an appearance.

The Creative Coalition's Spotlight Initiative Gala Awards (STK)
If you have an invitation to this VIP event, consider yourself lucky because the guest list includes Jennifer Connelly, Maria Bello, Jonathan Demme, Parker Posey, Nick Cannon, Uzo Aduba, Ewan McGregor, Paul Haggis and Christopher Guest.

Hollywood Foreign Press Association & InStyle Party (Windsor Arms Hotel) Designer Max Mara will host this sure-to-be-swanky industry-only party in Yorkville. The fashionable crowd should include the likes of Felicity Jones and Rooney Mara.

SEPTEMBER 11

Katie Says Goodbye after-party (Candyland)
Stars of Katie Says Goodbye - Olivia Cooke, Mireille Enos, Christopher Abbot and Jim Belushi - will host a private event from 7:30 to 10 p.m. before Candyland opens to the public for the rest of the night.

Artists for Peace and Justice (Casa Loma)
The eighth annual Artists for Peace and Justice gala is this Sunday at Casa Loma. Sean Penn will be getting an award for "his extraordinary longstanding commitment and dedication to supporting communities in Haiti and promoting the ideals of peace and social justice around the world."

HELLO! Canada's #Hello10 Party (Thompson Hotel)
This party at the Thompson Hotel will undoubtedly attract some serious star power. You might get a good glimpse if you park yourself at the Thompson Diner with a plate of mac and cheese (or whatever you fancy!).

5th Annual TIFF Slam & Network Social (The Den)
Watch local actors fight it out on stage at this monologue slam. This party is actually accessible - it's only $15 at the door!

SEPTEMBER 12

Telefilm Canada and Birks Diamond Tribute (Shangri-La Hotel)
This swanky cocktail party will honour actors, directors and screenwriters, including Tracey Deer, Ann Marie Fleming, April Mullen, Léa Poolm Ann Shin, Amanda Crew, Caroline Dhavernas, Christine Horne, Sandra Oh, Jennifer Podemski, Emma Donoghue and Marie Vien.

Screen Actors Guild event (Thompson Hotel)
Members of the Screen Actors Guild will get to party it up at the Thompson Hotel during this very exclusive, invite-only event.

The Canada Party at TIFF '16 (Drake Hotel)
This annual invite-only event at the Drake is an unapologetic homage to Canadian and so-called hoser culture. Expect lots of plaid and a mystery DJ at midnight.

Festival Music House (Velvet Underground)
This annual invite-only concert showcases local musicians. This year's lineup features Dragonette, Jessy Lanza, Charlotte Day Wilson, Modern Space and Kardinal Offishall (who'll be DJing).

TIFF B.L.A.C.K. Ball (Brassaii)
The "Building a Legacy in Acting, Cinema & Knowledge" is an event hosted by actors Stephan James and Shamier Anderson. It's an invite-only party that'll feature a star-studded guest list that may or may not include Kit Harrington, Jason Sudeikis, Olivia Wilde and Nina Dobrev).

SEPTEMBER 13

Stiffer Things (Handlebar)
Celebrate queer, trans and/or sex positive films at TIFF with this annual party at Handlebar in Kensington Market. This one's open to the public.

SEPTEMBER 15

Brain on Fire after-party (Candyland)
Chloë Grace Moretz stars in this adaption of Susannah Cahalan's popular memoir. Moretz will host a private even from 8 to 10 p.m. before Candyland opens to the public.

TIFF Silverscreens VIP Party (DEQ)
Head to the Ritz for yet another free (minus the drinks) party. This one's at the tail end of the festival, but hopefully you can still do some celeb-spotting.

A Club Called Rhonda (Drake Hotel)
LA's Rhonda will transform the Drake into a pansexual paradise next Thursday night. It'll feature live music throughout three floors of unadulterated fun.

SEPTEMBER 16

The TIFF Bachelor Party (The Everleigh)
Eligible Magazine is bringing Bachelors Robby Hayes,​ ​Jared Haibon, Brett Melnick and Vinny Ventiera and Tenley Molzahn to the Everleigh next Friday night. Yes, this event is open to the public.

What did we miss? Let us know in the comments.

Photo by Jesse Milns.

Toronto Food Events rounds up the most delicious festivals, pop-ups, winemaker dinners, supper clubs and other food related happenings in Toronto this week and next. You can find us here every Friday morning.

THIS WEEK

• The Junk Food Festival is on this weekend, Sept. 9 to 11, at the Toronto Star building (1 Yonge St.). Admission is free.
• Now in its 32nd year, the Toronto Veg Food Fest is back at Harbourfront Centre from Sept. 9 to 11. It promises free samples, live music, cooking demos, presentations, new products and lots of meat-free fare.
• Taste of the Kingsway will shut down Bloor Street West from Prince Edward Drive to Montgomery Road this weekend for a street party featuring 200 exhibitors, a midway, a beer garden and live entertainment.
• Cabbagetown Festival 2016 is on this Saturday and Sunday. It's at Parliament and Carlton and you can expect to find local food vendors and live entertainment.
• Destination Thailand is at Yonge-Dundas Square this Saturday. Admission is free.
• The The Gladstone Hotel hosts Harvest Wednesdays Sip and Savour with Bob Blumer on Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $30

UPCOMING

• Tickets are now on sale for Oktoberfest at Steam Whistle Brewing happening on Saturday, Sept. 17.
• The 6th annual Toronto Garlic Festival is on Sunday, Sept. 18 at Artscape Wychwood Barns. Admission is $5 for this event filled with garlicky dishes, craft beer and wine.
• City Cider at the Spadina Museum is on Sunday, Sept. 18 from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the gate.

  Know of a Toronto food event coming up? Email liora@blogto.com

  Photo from Junked Food Co. by Jesse Milns

As summer ambles towards its end and we all feel more like hibernating than going back to school, work, and feet of snow, everyone could use a caffeinated pick-me-up or a sugar rush, not to mention a vegan snack after summer barbecues and beers. A new cafe offers a balance between all that, with cozy couches to curl up on and reminisce with pals over what you did on your all-too-short vacations.

Read my profile of Black Bear Espresso in the cafes section.

On Saturday September 10 there is a very important board meeting that you should seriously think about attending. Even if you have no board experience, it's something that will benefit your resume and life in general.

It's the 14th annual Board Meeting, and it doesn't involved sitting in a room with a table and chairs talking about processes and rules, it's a gathering of over a thousand skateboarders!

Mike McGown and Jonathan Nauss have run this massive gathering for 14 years now and it continues to grow every year, along with Toronto's skating and longboard community.

"This is totally my life," McGown, who owns Longboard Haven says. "I got on a board 20 odd years ago and never looked back basically."

The event started as a school art project. A gathering of of about 30 people who raced their longboards down St Clair Avenue. It was such a hit, that people started asking if it was happening the following year. The same question has come up every year since and it's now grown into a four day weekend of longboard and skateboarding culture and community.

Hundreds and hundreds of boarders dress up in white shirts and ties (a tradition from the beginning to poke fun at the serious suits walking around the Yonge and St Clair neighbourhood) and sit down in the middle of the intersection.

After some teasing and cheerleading boarders race down the street towards Queen's Park, there they take a break, snap some photos and make their way to City Hall via University along Queen West to Trinity Bellwoods.

It's a peaceful, joyous city takeover that's not too challenging or "zig zaggy" as McGown puts it, so that beginners or out of towners aren't freaked out.

Below are The Board Meeting weekend events. Helmets and safety gear are mandatory, by the way.

Lost in Havana skate movie screening (September 9)
The Tranzac is screening this documentary chronicling the highs and lows from the 1st ever donation of 100 skateboards to Cuba. Movie at 9p.m. $6 to watch.

Old School Night Shred (OSNS) (September 9)
Queen's Park. 9:30p.m. meet all kinds of board lovers for a good ol' shred. This is what it will look like, but you kind of already knew that.

The 14th annual Board Meeting (September 10)
Can you imagine the rush of skating down main streets of the city with over a thousand others? It's a thrilling thing to be a part of but also to watch. It starts at 2p.m. and here's video evidence.

Slide Fu (September 11)
This is a good old skate meet up on a big hill on Leaside behind the Loblaws. It's legit, the owner of the property is a fan of the Boar Meeting. Here's a video to show you how it goes.

Photo by Joshua Paul Sherman in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Fashion never sleeps. In a city like Toronto we all know that, and who hasn't been stuck scrambling for the perfect party dress between work and that big event, or lamented all the signs saying "closed" as you're wandering around after dinner? This cutting-edge new boutique aims to fix all that with hours from noon to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Read my profile of Octobertwelve in the fashion section.

Toronto might be rolling out the red carpet for Hollywood's elite, but not everyone's keen on getting the star treatment. Take Kiefer Sutherland, for instance, who was spotted on the Bloor-Danforth subway line last night.

Sutherland, a.k.a. the man of the people, has been in Toronto all summer filming the new show Designated Survivor. And an observant passenger snagged a photo of him on the supposedly hot and humid train.

LMAO I literally just took one of the non air conditioned Bloor trains with Kiefer Sutherland. "it's really hot on this train" #tiff#topoli

— Safiah (@SafiahC) September 9, 2016

Earlier this week, mayor John Tory took on a Twitter challenge and rode the entire Bloor-Danforth line in a un-air-conditioned car.

And while spotting celebs on the subway might a rarity in Toronto, in other places (like New York), A-listers like to demonstrate that they're just like us.

Magnificent Seven launched the latest edition of TIFF last night - and consensus seems to be that this year the festival got it right. The Antoine Fuqua directed re-make brought out big names including Oscar-winner Denzel Washington, Chris Pratt and Ethan Hawke.

Check out the photo gallery from the Magnificent Seven red carpet at TIFF.

Bars on Ossington in Toronto are known for their grungy, hip vibe, places to see and be seen, or just knock back something strong on your way home at the end of the day. These bars are great places to pre-drink before a big night out. Or, with plenty of great food and restaurants in the area, spend your whole night at one of these spots before noshing on some Poutini's or King Slice and passing out.

Here are my picks for the top bars on Ossington.

Sweaty Betty's
Luring people in for years with its cheeky name and proximity to the 63 Ossington bus stop, Sweaty Betty's is a crammed little staple of this neighbourhood. Due to this location it's also often crowded and difficult to get into. Get a pint of draft beer and up close and personal with some locals.

Baby Huey
This bar is named after a cartoon duck, and perhaps this encourages those undergoing a little Peter Pan syndrome in the Never Never Land of Parkdale, Dundas West, and other surrounding neighbourhoods to embrace their inner child while partying here. There's no food but they'll suggest local fast food takeout, and they often have DJs spinning so you can shake it.

Painted Lady
Painted Lady is a bar inspired by New Orleans, borrowing its name from a moniker for the women of the night that The Big Easy is known for. They do burlesque shows in keeping with this theme, as well as more run-of-the-mill DJ nights. They are geared for performance, even having chosen the wood in the bar for its auditory qualities. The vibe is eclectic and zany.

Reposado
Reposado is a tequila bar with a nice neighbourhood vibe and live music. They serve tapas such as spicy pickled vegetables, tequila cured salmon, crab cakes and mini empanadas. They have a house band called the Reposadists, and events pretty much every night.

Dakota Tavern
At Dundas and Ossington lies the grandaddy of all Ossington bars, the infamous Dakota Tavern. Located in a basement right next to a sports bar frequented by old dudes in scooters and with nothing more than a sign that reads simply "BEER MUSIC WHISKY" above its creaky wooden doors, you'd barely know it's there except some of the premier bluegrass and country music is performed here.

Thanks to Grolsch for sponsoring this post

Photo of Baby Huey by Hector Vasquez.

The best vintage clothing stores in Toronto have helped city get a reputation as a secondhand mecca. Scattered all over the city from Kensington Market, Parkdale, and beyond, these boutiques have a vast range of offerings. So whether you're in the market for a cheap find or designer gem, you're sure to catch the thrill of the hunt at any of these destinations.

Here are the best vintage clothing stores in Toronto.

Good luck driving around Toronto this weekend. There are lots of road closures to report, but luckily, the subway will be up and running (except for Line 1 between Downsview and Wilson).

Thanks to TIFF's annual Festival Street, King is closed between University and Spadina. It'll reopen on Monday at 5 a.m. It's a pleasure to walk down a car-free King Street, but if you rely on the 504 to get to-and-fro, check out the streetcar's alternate route. And remember, there will be no service between York and Charlotte.

On the east side of the city, Parliament will be closed from Gerrard to Wellesley for the Cabbagetown Festival. Carlton, between Parliament and Berkeley, will also shut down from 6 a.m. on Saturday until 9 p.m. on Sunday for this annual event.

As for other street fests, Taste of the Kingsway is shutting down Bloor between Prince Edward Drive and Montgomery Road from noon today until 11 p.m. on Sunday.

There are two major runs happening in Toronto this weekend. For the 5K Run for Sick Kids Hospital Foundation, road closures start at 7:30 a.m. and will impact the area around St. Clair Avenue West and West Hills Road. You can find the entire route here.

The luxurious Bang & Olufsen Yorkville Run happens every year during TIFF. It's on Sunday and will close down streets between Davenport and Dundas from 8 a.m. until noon.

And on Saturday, Queen's Park Crescent East between College and Bloor will be closed on Saturday between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the Jesus in the City Parade.

Photo by Jesse Milns.

The top apartment hotels in Toronto are great for a longer-term stay in Toronto, or if you simply want a bit more room to lounge and a place to cook your own meals. If you don't want to stay in an Airbnb, these hotels offer home-style amenities, like kitchens and couches to make your vacation or business trip as comfortable as possible.

Here are my picks for the top apartment hotels in Toronto.

Residence Inn
Each and every room in this downtown hotel has its own kitchen or kitchenette, which is great if you want to cook (or just need somewhere to store your leftovers). It also offers free breakfast, so you can always get a solid start in the morning - regardless of what you got up to the night before.

Cosmopolitan Hotel
There's nothing more cosmopolitan than staying right in the heart of downtown Toronto. With suites and kitchenettes available, this centrally located spot will keep you happy right in the heart of everything.

Pantages
This hotel in the downtown core boasts that it has "condo-like" suites - if that doesn't make for an authentically Toronto experience, I don't know what would instead. Stay here if you love the Eaton Centre or are going to see a show at the Ed Mirvish Theatre.

SoHo Hotel
If you'd rather live it up in King West, this hotel's for you. It's right by the city's most popular clubs and it's also within walking distance of the Rogers Centre. Best of all, it features in-suite laundry (when can I move in?).

One King West
Like the SoHo, One King West is also a condo building. So it's no surprise it offers apartment-like amenities to its guests. Each suite comes with a kitchenette that includes a fridge, a dishwasher and a microwave oven.

Photo of One King West.