Black Friday sales are annoying enough in Toronto already. Seriously, we're in Canada and Black Friday should be just like any other day of the year; we're not on holiday or recovering from thanksgiving dinner, mainly because our thanksgiving is in October. But alas, the sales have migrated over the border and seem to get bigger year after year.

One Toronto store, however, is getting attention for its Black Friday sale, but for all the wrong reasons. Serpentine menswear store in Yorkville thought it would be fun to use the hashtag #BlackFridaysMatter to describe its pre-Christmas shopping bonanza in an email blast.

Along with the hashtag, it included a black and white photo of what looks like a civil rights demonstration on its Instagram feed. Black Lives Matter Toronto condemned Serpentine for using the Black Lives Matter movement as a joke.

Serpentine's initial email went out at around 9:15 a.m. yesterday morning and the store put out an apology at 2:30 p.m that same day.

"We at the Serpentine want to take this opportunity to apologize for the confusion and frustration people are feeling regarding our Black Friday post. The post was purely intended to reference the droves of people that shop for deals this coming Friday," reads the notes on Serpentine's Instagram.

"The post was a play on words not meant to disrespect anyone or any group. We have customers of all races, religions and orientations. Serpentine is a multicultural boutique from its staff, all the way down to its brands across the globe."

Toronto's latest Indonesian restaurant serves up a variety of traditional dishes including chicken satay, eggplant curry and these whole eggs that come fried and marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce.

Read my profile of Warung Indonesia d'Eglinton in the restaurants section.

Toronto's west side is filled with new craft breweries, but the east side's bubbling up too thanks to spots like Radical Road, Left Field and Muddy York. Now Leslieville's going to get another craft brewery in 2017.

Rorschach Brewing Co., is taking over the old Le Papillon on the Park space at 1001 Eastern Ave. The French restaurant shut down at the beginning of this year.

The Wine Swine gastro wine pub was open for a few months in the restored house at 1001 Eastern Ave., but has since closed.

The house is currently on the market for $2,490,000. According to the listing, the property's a "fully leased restaurant building with solid income stream from craft brewery opening shortly."

While the team at Rorschach plans to experiment with its brews, it'll consistently serve up a few distinct styles of beer.

"We will always have a heavy focus on the specific styles of beer that we enjoy to brew and drink," says Rorschach's Facebook page. "We believe these to be hop-forward beers that emphasize hop aroma and flavour over hop bitterness, as well as saison and mixed-fermentation farmhouse style beers that are dry, effervescent and intriguingly complex."

Who knows what you'll see in your beer when Rorschach opens its doors in 2017.

Toronto Restaurant Openings highlights the latest restaurant openings in Toronto and also gives a preview of what's coming soon. Find us here every Thursday morning.

OPEN NOW

• Seven Lives has started up a ceviche counter in its Paleteria space at 72 Kensington Ave. across from its popular taco spot. Look for a few kinds of ceviche, coctel de cameron (a Mexican shrimp cocktail) and pozole.
• Pusateri's fine food flagship at 1539 Avenue Road has now reopened after it was damaged by fire last summer. The new and improved upscale grocery store now boasts a rosticceria, a cafe, a Greenhouse Juice Co. shop-in-shop and a sit-down, full-service restaurant.
• Southeast Asian eatery Basil Box now has a second location downtown in addition to the one at Ryerson. It can be found at 441 Queen St. W. at Spadina, and a third will open at Front & John in the spring of 2017.
• Greenbox Express is now open at 200 University Ave. It's serving up freshly made sandwiches, salads, soup and espresso-based beverages.

RECENTLY REVIEWED

• Jules Bistro
• Suup Health Bar
• Sweet Addictions Candy
• Roywoods
• Raiders eSports Centre
• Katsuya
• Safehouse Coffee
• FAMO Sandwiches
• Crepe TO
• Holy Oak Cafe
• Mika Fresh

OPENING SOON

• Boxcar Social is expandingitsmini-empire in January 2017 with a new location in the Financial District on Temperance St.

OTHER NEWS

• Big Fat Burrito will be vacating its spot at Lee's Palace by the end of this year, which means its Kensington Market location may be the last one left standing. It also means the space at Lee's is available for lease.

Have you seen restaurants opening or closing in your neighbourhood? Email tips to editors@blogto.com

Photo of Basil Box by Hector Vasquez

A shiny three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo at Palace Place has hit the market at $2,388,000. The building is hard to miss, proudly dominating Humber Bay Shores, and was once one of Toronto's tallest residential buildings.

The 2,836 square foot condo comes with an array of custom designs and high-end finishes -- most notably the sleek, bar-like kitchen that greets you on entrance. The glossy cabinetry combined with a custom 14-foot chandelier scream high-end nightclub, and the bold Calcutta marble flooring seals that vision.

If it weren't for the city view to the east, you'd feel as though you're living on the ocean. With a sweeping view of Lake Ontario through floor-to-ceiling windows, this is a pad with a view. The massive master bedroom with en suite offers a true spa-like feel, with the blue hue of Lake Ontario nodding at you from below.

SPECS

• Address: 1 Palace Pier Court #3901
• Price: $2,388,000
• Square Feet: 2836 Sq Ft
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 3
• Parking: 2
• Taxes: $7,209.96
• Maintenance Fee: $2,248 Monthly
• Walk Score: 54
• Listing agent: Sam Allan Mcdadi
• Listing ID: W3653335

NOTABLE FEATURES

• Panoramic views of the city and lake
• Custom design kitchen
• High-end cabinetry throughout
• 14-foot custom chandelier over 16-foot waterfall island
• Calcutta marble flooring
• Heated floors and steam shower

GOOD FOR

Hosting a flash party. With the kitchen already emulating a high-end bar, along with plenty of space to spread out, this is the perfect spot to invite your pals and show off your place.

MOVE ON IF

The lack of outdoor private space is a deal breaker. While there's a rooftop patio and barbecues to rent on the ground-level outside - it isn't the same as throwing a party on your own private terrace.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
What do you think of this lakeside condo? 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.

The TTC might finally be able to offer a discounted fare for its low income riders. A new report to be considered by the mayor's executive committee next week lays out the groundwork for the "Fair Pass" program that would provide financial relief for roughly 200,000 users of the TTC.

According to the Toronto Star, the discount under discussion is 33 per cent on single adult fares and 21 on a Metropass. Using 2017 fare rates, eligible riders would be looking at $2 single fares and roughly $115 for the monthly pass. With the program not slated to start until 2018, however, those numbers could change.

It's also possible that the TTC fare structure will undergo a complete overhaul after the PRESTO rollout is complete, including the introduction of peak and off-peak pricing, but the relative discount of the "Fair Pass" would remain the same relative to full price fares.

The discount program would be rolled out in three stages, with the highest eligibility not coming until 2020. Right now the cost is pegged at roughly $48 million. The first phase would be covered by Toronto property taxes, but the second and third would require additional funding from the municipal budget or contributions from other levels of government.

Photo by Ross in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Toronto loves its Fashion Santa. So when news broke that Yorkdale Shopping Centre was replacing Paul Mason with a new Fashion Santa for the 2016 holiday season, the internet went bonkers.

After speaking with Mason, the original Fashion Santa, it's clear things aren't as simple as selfies, but he's hoping everything clears up soon.

"Two parties are claiming ownership and copyright of Fashion Santa, and being the creator of the character I have to stand my ground and force that I am the Fashion Santa," says Mason. "It was a pitch that went out to half a dozen retailers, and Yorkdale was the one that was more responsive than the others."

In 2015, he worked 88 hours at Yorkdale and took at least 600 photos and selfies with fans. Yorkdale is now promoting its new Fashion Santa, this time it's model Adam Martin, and until lawyers can get things straight, Mason says he can't use the Fashion Santa brand.

"A marketer or PR person can spin it the way the want, but people that know me and the fans that know me and relationships that I've nurtured for the past 30 years of my career know that I'm driven, professional," he says, addressing the rumours about why he was replaced. "You don't last this long in the business and stay relevant and ignore phone calls."

Mason grew his beard while he was mourning the death of his mother. It ended up looking great and that's where the Fashion Santa idea came from. He's now seen the joy the character brings and he's not letting it go quietly.

Though Mason can't do mall appearances with his character, he'll still be doing events around the city during the month of December. And while he can't reveal exactly where he'll be, he's got big plans and will keep everyone informed via his social media channels.

"The unfortunate part of this is it's blocked me from doing what I do best, which is to give and create and generate income for charity. Now I don't have a platform currently to raise money for anything," he says. "There are some things in the works, but I need to be in contact with my fan base... I want that tradition to keep going. This is my brand and my idea."

Photo of Paul Mason from the Yorkdale website.

The most romantic new restaurants in Toronto are by turns warm, swanky, and fun. Every moment with your darling is precious, so you know you have to spend each one wisely. And of course, you both gotta eat, right? Stare into each others' eyes and stuff your faces with great food at one of these new spots that's sure to set the mood for a lovely evening.

Here are my picks for the most romantic new restaurants in Toronto.

Jules Bistro
The French standby that's had a location on Spadina for years, now has a new location at Queen and Shaw. Be swallowed by the twinkling bar atmosphere within and share one of their many plates made especially for two, like the classic Cote de Boeuf atop crunchy baguette slices served with savoury ratatouille, crispy fries, and mixed greens.

Superpoint
As a lady, I know there's one thing most of us can't resist: pizza. Whole pies with toppings like olives and capicollo are served on old school metal stands in a dim and moody setting at odds with the takeout-like fare. Relax and celebrate with a wide range of biodynamic natural wines as well as beer and cocktails. Your girl can also munch on snacks, salads and pasta if she's somehow not into pizza.

Three Hands
If you and your sweetie are night owls or have a tough time coordinating your busy schedules during the day until late in the evening, give this spot with food and drinks 'til 2 a.m. a try. Share a giant bowl of collard greens poutine or a tiny plate of deep fried olives, or go the classic route with watermelon wasabi fried chicken. Cheers with reliable craft beer and cocktails.

Love Chix
For me, there's nothing sexier than watching your mate expertly (or even not so expertly) tear apart a whole bird piece by piece. They roast whole chickens to perfection here and serve them in family style meals with sides and their excellent gravy. There's also a huge variety of craft beer from a massive fridge. Spend hours picking apart poultry and chatting over drinks.

Revere
This Danforth restaurant emphasizes local ingredients on their Canadian comfort menu, which has something for everyone plus the added bonus of sophisticated plating to make the night seem special. Eat beautiful plates of house made pasta and pretty little desserts along with simple and refreshing cocktails, wine, and beer.

Thanks to Baci Perugina for sponsoring this post

Photo of Revere by Hector Vasquez.

Unusual ideas for your Toronto holiday party will help you throw an unforgettable get together that your friends will talk about for years to come. Drinks, decorations and ugly Christmas sweaters are all a given at this point, but have you ever thought about a snow machine? Or a gaggle of stripping elves?

Here are 10 unusual ideas for your Toronto holiday party.

Host a spiked eggnog cocktail bar
Don't just set out a table of booze and mix, hire a Drinksmith to come over and design a custom spiked eggnog cocktail for everyone. The team will give a tutorial and tasting, and with almond milk eggnog in stores now, even your lactose intolerant and vegan friends will thank you.

Hire a crew of sexy dancing elves
HIM are a troupe of hot male dancers that are basically Toronto's version of Chippendales. They not only perform at big stage events, but also at private parties. Why not hire them for your holiday bash as sexy elves who are excited to be finished their shift at the workshop and want to dance?

Create your own winter wonderland
Who knows if this year will be a white Christmas, and who cares? You can rent your very own snow machine to pump out the fluffy white stuff inside your own place or outside on your front lawn to create a private winter wonderland. They come in many sizes and with a remote so you can control the flurries as you see fit.

Have an ice bar/luge
Another creative way to serve drinks at your holiday party is to have cocktail ingredients come shooting down an ice luge into your glass, or be made on your very own ice bar. A bar generally starts melting after six hours and you'll need to order yours at least five days in advance.

Decorate your entire home in mistletoe
Why just have one little mistletoe branch hanging from a door frame in your place, when you could cover your entire ceiling with the stuff? Sheridan Nurseries on Yonge Street have a non-stop supply of the romantic branches for the month of December. Just call ahead to ensure you can get a pile.

Set up a do-it-yourself Menorah station
Menorahs are beautiful things on their own giving off all that candle light, but why not ask your friends to get creative and make their very own to liven up the place? These menorah kits give you all the tools to get started, you'll just need to provide supplies to decorate them.

Invite Santa Claus over
Hanging out with friends and listening to Christmas carols is cute, but go the extra step and invite the big man in red to let your guests say what's really on their mind. Hireasanta.ca lets you pick a Santa for your party. He'll show up, take wish list notes and leave your guests feeling like kids again. Or, you can just see if Fashion Santa is available.

Feed your friends with a custom cupcake bar
CutiePie Cupcakes will come to your party and set up their Cupcake Genie Bar. Guests each get three yummy wishes to create their own festive one-bite treats. CutiePie also offers a Unicorn Latte Bar and everything they do is colourful and interactive - they'll even incorporate custom branding if you're into that.

Rent an enormous candy cane
This giant candy cane will up your party's Insta game. Heck, grab two of them to create an epic entranceway to your event. This extremely large piece of non-edible candy will guarantee photo ops, just keep it glued down to your floor so no one rides it out the door.

Serve a custom Christmas marshmallow spread
You have to order these from Toronto's Puffy Love stat to create your very own marshmallow world. They come in candy cane, ginger bread, orange chocolate or cranberry custom flavours that will ensure dreams of sugar plum fairies happen in real time.

This post is brought to you by Stella Artois, the perfect beer to serve your guests this holiday season.

Have any more unusual ideas for a holiday party in Toronto? Let us know in the comments and let's get jolly.

Online commenting sections can be terrible places. And they can be especially vicious for restaurants. The tiniest infraction can lead to a terrible review on websites that other eaters trust to help guide their dining-related decisions.

Edulis, often regarded as one of the best restaurants in the city, recently received an unfavourable review via the reservation service Bookenda, as the CBC reports.

Instead of ignoring it, Edulis chef and co-owner Tobey Nemeth responded to it in a lengthy message that she posted to Instagram. Nemeth was particularly hurt by the reviewer's line, "Restaurants in Toronto don't stay at the top forever. I will not feel sorry for them when their time runs out."

Nemeth responded to it by writing, "Wow. This is one of the cruelest and most vicious things anyone has ever said to us." She later explains the restaurant's run by a team of five staff and that she and her husband are often on site working 15 to 16 hour days; Edulis, she writes, is their life.

Read the exchange below.

This restaurant business can be hard. Having a very hard time today. Sometimes it feels as restaurant owners/chefs we do not have a voice when people write cruel things about us. This is my response to one of the most vicious reviews by a guest at Edulis. Can't shake the terrible feeling it left me with. Sometimes you just want to throw in the towel. It feels like the only thing that would give people like this satisfaction would be to see you go out of business. Perhaps for these online reviewers it's too easy to forget there are human beings behind every experience. Human beings that are - despite every effort to try to have a thick skin - deeply hurt by negative comments. This affects the psyche of our entire staff. I would also like to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the beautiful people who have taken time out of their busy lives to write us kind and beautiful things. Who make our day with their pleasure and positivity. Who literally make us light up when you walk in our dining room. You, also, have no idea how much this means to us.

A photo posted by EDULIS RESTAURANT (@edulisrestaurant) on Nov 12, 2016 at 10:07am PST

Photo via @edulisrestaurant.

Black Friday sales in Toronto are no longer limited to only Friday. There are Black Friday Week sales that continue over the weekend and into Cyber Monday where you can get deals while sitting in bed. If you're brave enough to venture into the busy malls and stores this weekend, do stay patient while battling the lineups for the extreme deals on offer.

Here are my picks for the top Black Friday sales in Toronto for 2016.

TECH

Best Buy
Best Buy is lowering prices in store and online on electronics, including significant savings on 4K TVs, virtual reality headsets and DSLR cameras. Their stores are getting an early start with 6 a.m. opening times for maximum time for shopping... or standing in line.

The Source
Save on tech at The Source on Black Friday including TVs, tablets, FitBits and headphones. Sales on big ticket items like curved LED TVs promise hundreds in savings.

Henrys
Head to Henrys for deals on cameras and equipment. Find discounts on Canon and Nikon camera kits, lenses and tripods.

Staples
You won't just be saving on office supplies at Staples over Black Friday weekend. They have sales on their appliances, laptops, printers and Go Pros as well.

FASHION

Indochino
Indochino has price savings of up to 70% off in store and online including premium suits at $479 (regular $699-$899).

Livestock
Livestock is having a 30-70% Black Friday sale for all your sneaker and streetwear needs.

Urban Planet
Urban Planet has been unveiling new deals every day this week. While Friday's deal hasn't been announced, if the others are an indication, it will feature significant discounts.

Over the Rainbow
Score some good deals on jeans at Over the Rainbow. They're doing a 40% off sale on select denim and fashion in store and online as well as other in-store deals.

The Bay
The Bay is slashing prices on everything from fashion to home goods. Some sales include designer clothing, up to 60% off and furniture, up to 50% off.

Jean Machine
Jean Machine has Black Friday deals on almost everything in store. Some deals include 50% off denim, 30% off tops, jackets and accessories. Scratch and save with a coupon ranging from 10-20% off your entire purchase.

Aritzia
Gear up for winter by snagging one of Aritzia's parkas in store with all items up to 50% off in store and online on Black Friday. For the rest of the weekend, you'll find deals on select fall/winter items. The Cyber Monday deal is also up to 50% off, online only.

Guess
Guess is offering a 30-50% off sale on specific categories up until Black Friday and up to 60% off everything on their website on Cyber Monday.

Rudsak
Rudsak is offering up to 40% off on select styles as well as an additional 15% off on everything in-store. Free shipping for online purchases made from November 28-29 is an added bonus.

Ted Baker London
Ted Baker London carries upscale brands which are sometimes pricy. They are offering up to 50% off select lines in store and online to help with any hefty price tags.

Teedot
Teedot Apparel apparel is having a three-day Black Friday sale from Friday to Sunday on toques for $10 (regular $29) and deals on joggers, hoodies, crewnecks and snapbacks. Cash and credit will be the only way to pay to get in on these deals.

Frank + Oak
From Thursday to Sunday, Frank + Oak has a 35% off sale on all regular priced items. As for their Cyber Monday deals, an additional 20% off to total up to 70% off.

North Standard Trading Post
The Black Friday sale at North Standard Trading Post runs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with 30% off everything in-store like blankets, toques and other apparel.

Tiger of Sweden Toronto
The hyper fashionable Tiger of Sweden has a buy one get one 50% off deal, in-store only, on their fall collection including suits, outerwear, shirts and accessories.

Jonathan and Olivia
Black Friday sales at Jonathan and Olivia start on Thursday with up to 50% off on select items in-store and online on items like sweatpants and jackets from designer brands such as Alexander Wang or Pharrell Williams' line.

Muddy George
Bloorcourt menswear shop Muddy George is having a 20% off sale Friday through to Sunday on their menswear items like shirts, flannels, shoes and ties.

Gerhard Supply
Vests, pants, suit jackets and bowties are on sale at Gerhard Supply. They are extending their hours from Friday to Sunday to offer 20% off seasonal items, in store and online.

18 Waits
Clothing from 18 Waits' fall and winter collection will be 25% off this weekend including cardigans, shirts, jackets and hats. Collections from this menswear brand's previous seasons will be up to 60% off in store and online.

Love and Greed
For Black Friday Love and Greed is offering 20% off their entire store until Sunday. Sale items at this men's clothing store include blazers, pants and collared shirts. The only exclusion is their Iccha Jewellery line.

Kit and Ace
The Black Friday sale at Kit and Ace started on Wednesday, but it goes until Sunday. They will have markdowns on their products in store and online. They will also have an additional 20% off sale on Cyber Monday for online shoppers.

Peace Collective
Peace Collective is offering a 20-40% off sale on everything in their newly opened flagship store and online.

Bather
Bather is offering a 25% off deal with the promo code FRIDAY25. The Toronto-based start-up will have the offer available only on Friday and only on their website.

Motoretta
This Toronto motorcycle and scooter boutique is offering up to 40-70% off in store and online with their promo code BLACKFRIDAY. Motoretta isn't just focused on motorcycles though, they carry clothing, outerwear and footwear too.

Outclass
Outclass has everything on sale including cozy sweaters and jackets for 20% off on Friday only.

Fred Perry
Select seasonal stock will be 25-50% off at Fred Perry until Sunday, including polo shirts, dresses and jackets.

JEWELERY

Alex and Ani
Pick up some shiny rings or bracelets with 20% off your purchase at Alex and Ani. A new bangle will also be available for $28.

Thomas Sabo
Thomas Sabo has six pre-selected jewellery combinations which will be 30% off. Not specific to Black Friday, Thomas Sabo offers free engraving on their jewellery for a custom gift.

Jenny Bird
Jenny Bird's Black Friday sale starts at midnight on Thursday until midnight on Cyber Monday. By using the promo code THEBIG30, you can get 30% off all of their jewellery on their website.

Pandora Jewellery
Spruce up your charm bracelet with new charms this weekend. Pandora is offering a free limited edition bangle bracelet (valued at $85) while supplies last, with your purchase of $150, in store only.

Links of London
Links of London is offering a 20% off sale until Sunday and online on Cyber Monday in order to pick up jewellery like charms and bracelets.

FOOTWEAR

Aldo
Aldo has had different sales every day of the week leading up to Black Friday. The weekend deal is 25% off sale items and the Cyber Monday deal is 20% off regular priced items and 50% off sale items.

Call it Spring
An extra 40% off all sale items both in-store and online will land you with super cheap shoes or boots.

Soft Moc
Soft Moc's Black Friday sale is up to 50% off on a range of winter boots and shoes. We've only had a light dusting so far, but the snow is coming so you better be prepared for snow with some good winter boots.

Get Outside
Get Outside has sneakers on sale this weekend - 20% off. Although there are some exclusions, they have some deals that are yet to be announced as well.

MUSIC

HMV
HMV is having a bunch of sales for Black Friday. If you don't buy CDs anymore, they are also discounting their headphones, blankets and pillows.

Long & McQuade
Audio equipment and instruments are some of the things on discount at Long & McQuade this Black Friday. They have a don't pay for 90 days promotion, extended warranties, and in-store coupons for more savings.

Dead Dog Records
Dead Dog Records are opening at 8 a.m. to celebrate Record Store Day as part of their Black Friday sales. They haven't announced specific sales but are bringing in limited edition records which would make for a great gift for any vinyl lovers you might be shopping for.

HOME

Elte Markt
The contemporary furniture store in the Castlefield Design District is discounting some goods at up to 50% off including big savings on select sofas, chairs and rugs.

Ikea
If you're brave enough to head into this maze-like store on Black Friday you could score some pretty good deals. The first 200 customers in the store will receive a $50 off coupon at 8 a.m. With extended hours, there's lots of opportunity for discounts on rugs, living room seating and other furniture.

Struck Contemporary Art Gallery
Art pieces are great gifts for the holidays, and at Struck Gallery's Black Friday sale you can stock up on art pieces and get between 10 and 20% off your purchase.

National Mattress
National Mattress is offering some hefty deals on memory foam mattresses to have you sleeping easy. Their sale is online only and runs through the weekend and Cyber Monday.

OTHER

Toys R Us
A week-long half-price event beginning on Black Friday is happening at Toys R Us, although full details are to be released tonight.

NYX Cosmetics
Select NYX Cosmetics makeup products will be up to 50% off in store and online until Sunday.

Spork Chek
Spork Chek's Black Friday deals include savings on sports equipment, fitness gear and sport clothing. They'll also have door crasher specials up to 60% off.

ONLINE ONLY

eBay
With up to 50% off a variety of items, eBay has you covered for basically anything. Their promotions extend past Cyber Monday and go until November 30th.

Amazon
Amazon has been adding more deals every day leading up to Black Friday. Although they aren't offering a flat percentage discount, they still have lowered their prices on lots of different items.

Sunwing
Sunwing has travel deals for that last minute getaway to escape the cold. Select travel deals are up to 50% off if you book before November 27.

Thanks to ELTE Markt for sponsoring this post.

Did I miss a great Black Friday sale? Add your suggestions in the comments.

Photo by Bill Wu in the blogTO Flickr pool.

Weekend events in Toronto will keep you warm even though you might be outside. Case in point is the ongoing Toronto Christmas Market. You'll feel like you're walking on the set of a holiday film, complete with fire pits and hot drinks, like mulled wine, around every corner. Or huddle up in Nathan Phillips Square for the annual Cavalcade of Lights festivities.

Here are my picks for the top events in Toronto this weekend.

BIG EVENTS

Toronto Christmas Market (Until Dec. 22, Distillery District)
We've already showed you what the Christmas market looks like this year, and it doesn't disappoint. And that's a good thing, since you now have to pay to get in (except during most weekdays). There's live entertainment, vendors, fire pits, food and hot drinks to keep you warm for your entire visit.

Regent Park Film Fest (Until Nov. 26, Daniels Spectrum)
This film festival is completely free and unlike any other fest in the city. It features, "local and international independent works relevant to people from all walks of life, with a focus on low income and public housing communities." Check out the official lineup and programming schedule to see a film.

One of a Kind Show (Until Dec. 4, Enercare Centre)
Over 800 vendors and artisans welcome you to this massive shopping event featuring clothes, visual art, food and all kinds of other unique gift ideas all in one spot. It saves you a lot of time and keeps you indoors while getting all that shopping done.

Cavalcade of Lights (Nov. 26, City Hall)
Not only will there be a massive fireworks show at City Hall as part of this holiday ceremony, they'll also light up a 60-foot Christmas tree, throw a skating party with DJs and feature live entertainment. And that's just one of the big lighting shows this weekend; Riverside and the Beaches are also launching their light shows.

PHOTO CHALLENGE

We've teamed up with the City of Toronto to host the official photo challenge for this year's Cavalcade of Lights at City Hall. To enter, simply tag your photos on Instagram with #blogTOcavalcade by 11:59 p.m. this Sunday November 27. We'll then select 10 finalists for a reader vote commencing on Monday. Prizes this year include:

• 1st place: $200 gift card from Henry's Camera
• 2nd place: $100 gift card from Henry's Camera
• 3rd place: $50 gift card from Henry's Camera

MORE TORONTO EVENTS

• Photorama (Nov. 24-Dec. 3, Gallery TPW)
• The Art of Craft Beer (Nov. 25, Super Wonder Gallery)
• 2017 Firefighter Calendar Launch (Nov. 25, Cube)
• NXT City's Public Space Party (Nov. 25, District 28)
• Beaver and Bacon Comedy Festival (Nov. 25, Regent Theatre)
• FNL ROM (Nov. 25, ROM)
• Drone Fair (Nov. 26, University of Ontario Institute of Technology)
• Hear Here (Nov, 26, The Bunker)
• Martin Lawrence (Nov. 27, Sony Centre)
• Screen Queens: Mars Attacks (Nov. 27, Royal Cinema)
• Cycle Toronto Advocacy Forum (Nov. 27, Metro Hall)

SHOPPING

Pixel & Bristle Winter Edition (Nov. 26, Drake Underground)
Toronto's best design and typography market brings together local designers, illustrators, typographers and makers showing and selling their finest prints, cards, gifts, signage, coasters, wall art, mobiles, bags, banners, textiles, mugs, enamel pins, patches, buttons, stickers and more. Admission is free.

More shopping in Toronto

• Jenny Bird Sample Sale (Nov. 25, Jenny Bird)
• Midnight Mrkt (Nov. 25, 2nd Floor Events)
• Corktown Winter Market (Nov. 27, Linen Grove)

SPORTS

Official You Can Play Greycup Party (Nov. 25, Striker)
It's the Grey Cup Festival in Toronto this weekend and although that's not really that exciting since the Argos aren't playing, there is this LGBTQ-friendly sports party at Toronto's first ever gay sports bar. This is the first time a professional sports league has officially sanctioned a LGTBQ event during its championship weekend.

Glow in the dark Nerf battle (Nov. 25, Battle Sports Inc.)
$20 gets you into this glow-in-the-dark Nerf battle and pyjama party. It's a fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society and also features a dance party inside the Battle Sports venue.

MUSIC

Tanya Tagaq (Nov. 25, Trinity St. Paul's Church)
Don't miss your chance to see the Polaris Prize-winning, throat singing diva perform in this beautiful, intimate venue. Tanya Tagaq can blow the roof off of any venue, but this concert is going to be very special. Michelle Nox will open the show.

More music in Toronto

• Brendan Canning (Nov. 25, The Garrison)
• Children of Bodom (Nov. 25, The Phoenix)
• Croatia Squad (Nov. 25, Nest)
• A Hairy Night of Music (Nov. 25, Opera House)
• Aaron Pritchett Grey Cup Concert (Nov. 25, Steamwhistle)
• The Jezebels (Nov. 25, Lee's Palace)
• Wavelength (Nov. 26, Bike Pirates)
• Gordon Lightfoot (Nov. 26, Massey Hall)
• Basia Bulat (Nov. 26, Danforth Music Hall)
• A$AP Ferg (Nov. 27, The Phoenix)

DANCING

Footprints 14 year Anniversary (Nov. 26, Rivoli)
We're big fans of Toronto's most famous dance party, which is why this 14th anniversary party is a big, big deal! As always, General Eclectic Jason Sanders and Jason Palma play the goods.

More dance parties in Toronto

• No Sleep 'Til Fridays (Nov. 25, Brooklynn)
• Feministry (Nov. 25, Round)
• Essence Brown (Nov. 25, The Steady)
• Fun Nooddle (Nov. 25, The Beaver)
• Balls Deep Disco (Nov. 25, The Black Eagle)
• Goddess Party (Nov. 25, The Gladstone Hotel)
• Rude (Nov. 25, Geary Lane)
• Worst Behaviour (Nov. 26, Clinton's)
• Fit (Nov. 26, The Beaver)
• Pleasurekraft (Nov. 26, Coda)
• Mile High (Nov. 27, Westin Harbour Castle top floor)
• It's not Sunday with A$AP Ferg (Nov. 27, Uniun Nightclub)
• Sunday Afternoon Social with Box of Kittens (Nov. 27, Loft404)

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 the Toronto Christmas Market by Hector Vasquez.

The One of a Kind show is now on at the Enercare Centre in Toronto. The event features about 800 vendors, selling a slew of artisanal items, as well as a massive Christmas tree to give the entire market some festive flair. Sure, you might not be into everything on sale, but this show, on until December 4, will definitely help you lighten your holiday shopping load.

Check out our photo gallery for holiday gift ideas from the One of a Kind Show.

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

• Midnight Mrkt is back tonight at 2nd Floor Events at 461 King St. W. Expect craft vendors and food trucks eats at this indoor event.
• The Art of Craft Beer art show is tonight at Super Wonder Gallery.
• The Toronto Bakers Market East returns to the Ralph Thornton Community Centre on Nov. 27 from noon until 4 p.m.
• The Corktown Winter Market is on Nov. 27 at four spots, including Roselle Desserts and Tandem Coffee, as well as at Linden Grove Flowers and Cambria Gallery. These locations will feature food, beverages and vendors.
• Toronto's first ever Jiggle Ball jello shot competition is on Nov. 29 at Apt. 200.
• On Nov. 29, Omaw is partnering with Action Against Hunger to give all of its profits to charity.
• Maman hosts its very first wine pairing dinner on Nov. 30. Tickets to this four course meal, with wine, cost $80.
• Feast on Brazilian food at Mata Petisco Bar on Dec. 1. This event will feature five different chefs from Brazil.

UPCOMING

• The Peter Pan Brewery Tour will bring live theatre into some of the city's best independent breweries from Dec. 2 to 10.
• The annual Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Build is on Dec. 3 and 4 at City Hall. Edible building kits cost $50.
• Cask on Landsdowne will bring together 15 local brewers for a day of cask beer at Landsdowne Brewery. Your $25 ticket will get you a tasting glass and two five ounce samples.
• The Toronto Bakers Market West takes over The Great Hall on Dec. from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
• Banu continues it Unforked Salon series by featuring food writer Suresh Doss on Dec. 4
• Bacardi's bringing a Christmas tree lot to the King Street West neighbourhood along with rum-filled drinks. Big trees will go for $20 while small ones will be $10.
• The Miss Thing'sRum Social on Dec. 7 will include a four course dinner. It'll be $75 including rum pairing or $45 for just food.

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

Photo by Hector Vasquez.

It may not be December 1 yet, but it's officially Christmas in Toronto. The craziness began when Mariah Carey shut down the city to help reveal Hudson's Bay and Sak's holiday windows. But it continued with the opening of the Toronto Christmas Market, the Santa Claus Parade and the unveiling of the country's biggest Christmas tree at the Eaton Centre.

Now, there's another Christmas market coming to town. This one, however, will be inside at Yorkville Village, or the mall formerly known as Hazelton Lanes.

The Yorkville Village Holiday Market opens on December 2 and runs until December 22. It'll feature live entertainment, pop-ups, holiday-themed vendors, family-friendly entertainment, and both interior and exterior decoration. Proceeds from all sponsored activities will go towards SickKids.

You better get shopping!

Has Toronto reached peak Christmas yet? Let us know in the comments.

Photo by Damien D. via the blogTo Flickr pool.

Toronto loves Nutella. We have a multiple Nutella cafes, coffee shops that serve Nutella lattes, and even one spot that has a massive Nutella pizza on its menu. Sure, our city may not have a Nutella burger, but there's now one spot where you can grab the ultimate gift for your Nutella-obsessed loved ones.

At select grocery store locations, you can grab 725 gram jars of Nutella with personalized labels. Or, you can stick on a pre-printed holiday label to make your favourite chocolate hazelnut spread a little bit more festive.

The Sobeys Urban Fresh at 22 Fort York Blvd., will have pre-printed holiday labels, like "love," "friend," "Santa," "merry," "Noel," "Kwanzaa" and "Hanukkah." At the Maple Leaf Gardens Loblaws (60 Calton St.) and the Loblaws at 380 The East Mall in Etobicoke, you can get custom labels printed for $5.99. The labels are limited to names with nine letters or fewer.

Time to get creative with your chocolate hazelnut.

Canada's biggest Christmas tree debuted last night in Toronto. The epic Christmas tree stood at a whopping 100 feet tall in the middle of the CF Toronto Eaton Centre and hundreds upon hundreds people watched in awe as the drape slowly lifted.

If seeing the tree in all its glory wasn't enough the crowd also got to enjoy a special holiday performance by Toronto's drop-in choral society Choir! Choir! Choir!. The group beautifully sung Louis Armstrong's What a Wonderful World.

If you didn't get a chance to go in person here's what you missed.

Lead photo by Matt Barnes

Could Toronto get its own Christmas miracle this year? Many of us complain about last call in Toronto, especially since it comes well before 2 a.m. at many establishments around the city.

But on Monday, the Toronto Music Industry Advisory Council will be at the Economic Development and Culture Committee meeting to discuss our nighttime economy, recommending that city staff begin looking at a number of initiatives related to late night activities, such as extending licensing hours.

According to CBC News, the Music Industry Advisory Council thinks 2 a.m. is just too early because it can hinder the success of music venues.

While the Music Industry Advisory Council doesn't specify a new time for last call, we've already seen what the city's like when bars close at 4 a.m. during special events such as TIFF and Nuit Blanche.

However, as CBC reports, there's already push back from groups such as the Toronto Noise Coalition who worry about more violence, vomit on the streets, and of course, excess noise in the Entertainment District.

This isn't the first time there's been a push to extend last call past 2 a.m. Back in 2014, the website lastcallto popped up and started a campaign and petition urging Toronto to make last call later.

Photo by Jesse Milns.

Ever wish you could just brunch all day? Sick and tired of restaurant hours for brunch not lining up with your busy yet still breakfast-worthy life? Sore over being judged for ordering bloody caesars at all hours of the day? A new diner spot that serves mimosas and English breakfasts all day is here for you.

Read my profile of White Lily Diner in the restaurants section.

It was only a matter of time before the future of the towering, 65-storey Trump Hotel and Tower was seriously called into question. Last year, it seemed the building was doomed, and now in the aftermath of the U.S. election, it's officially on the market.

CBRE Ltd. is the firm in charge of marketing the sale of the building, and they've stated Trump's name may or may not stay on the building after it's sold.

The Financial District building is wrapped up in multiple financial situations including with JCF Capital who holds the debt on the current building and developer Talon International Inc. who defaulted on the original debt as well as with investor Jay Wolf who is involved in a $301 million construction loan on the property.

There's actually nothing overly dramatic about the sale. The Trump organization only licenses its name and manages the building, so the man himself has very little to do with any of it.

What exactly is for sale? The five-star hotel, along with 211 unsold hotel units and 74 unsold condos. The sale of the tower would also include several parking spots, a spa, and the Calvin Bar at street level. Word is that numerous foreign investors are already interested.

Photo by @lusin14 via Instagram.