Since Christmas and nostalgia go together like rum and egg nog, let's crack open a 160-proof bottle of classic Toronto Christmas TV commercials. Here's a fine selection of vintage yuletide classics to quench your festive thirst, whither marvelling at the low prices, cheesy sentimentality, or just lamenting the passing of a more innocent time.

Happy holidays, and bottoms up!

Bell

Sure, they might be an evil empire now but back in the 80s Bell was all about ill communication and this stylish spot said it all.

Cullen Gardens

A favourite destination for families and school trips in the '80s, the sadly disassembled miniature village at Cullen Gardens always put on a spectacular Christmas show.

Shoppers Drug Mart

During the halcyon run of TV's The Golden Girls, star Bea Arthur always made time to fly to Toronto and star in Shoppers Drug Mart commercials. Not quite starting at the bottom, but she was indeed there.

Radio Shack

The original tech geek store, small box-style and always full of soul.

Blacks Photography

Rocking one of the most memorable jingles of the '80s, of course Blacks Christmas commercials got welded into our psyche.

The Eaton Centre

Retro Eaton Centre ads seem to capture everything about the sentiment of the holidays in the 1980s.

Canadian Tire

Who could forget the "Give like Santa, save like Scrooge" campaign from Canadian Tire?

MuchMusic

Long before it showed up on basic cable, MuchMusic was Pay-TV, and therefore a great last-minute gift.

Multi-Tech Warehouse

The Multi-Tech guy was a mainstay of late-night Citytv, never more so than at Christmas time.

Miscellaneous 

Seasonal Greetings

A big part of any local TV channel's identity was based on their seasonal greetings message. Here are few local classics

When the Business and Legal Affairs department wishes you a Happy Holiday, you know they mean it!

Merry Retro Christmas!

To see hundreds more retro Christmas TV commercials, specials, and other lost local ephemera, visit www.retrontario.com.

The Coupler, the TTC's venerable internal magazine, has been running more or less continuously since the creation of Toronto's transit authority in the early 1920s.

Its pages are a repository for the ongoing history of the TTC as viewed from the inside. It has published commemorative issues with each new subway line and tracked the Commission as it grew into one of the most used mass transit systems in North America.

Every year since 1924, the magazine has published a special Christmas cover, almost always in colour, for its December issue. Viewed in series, the scenes range from charming to a little frightening (check out the cover from 1971), but they're all pure vintage Toronto. 

Here are some of the best of the Coupler's Christmas editions, courtesy of the TTC archives.

The 1926 editions of the Coupler.

The 1927 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1929 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

Past and present collide in an early Christmas edition of the Coupler.

A 1930s Christmas edition of the Coupler featuring the Bloor Viaduct.

The 1938 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1939 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

A wartime Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1944 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1949 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1950 Christmas edition of the Coupler. 

The 1959 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

The 1961 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

Hmmm. An interesting Christmas edition of the Coupler from 1971.

The Simpson's holiday windows make an appearance in the 1975 Christmas edition of the Coupler.

A wonderfully moody Christmas edition of the Coupler from 1977.

Boxing Day sales in Toronto for 2017 are like the commercial swan song of the holidays. Before you finally shut your wallet for good, try braving the crowds one last time and find discounts on everything from clothes, tech, and furniture all across the city.

Here are my picks for the top Boxing Day sales in Toronto for 2017.

Fashion
 

Dutil

This is the place to stock up on new denim during Boxing Week. Find jeans 30% to 70% off and drop by the Queen West store before 10 a.m. on December 26 with the oldest Canadian coin you can find for a chance to win a free pair of jeans.

H&M

The popular chain is offering Boxing Day deals starting at $5 plus the first 100 people in line could get up to $300 off their purchase.

Chosen Vintage

This Dundas West vintage shop is having a one day sale on December 26 where all clothing will be 20% off and there will also be a 50% off rack too.

Motoretta

This Little Italy shop is offering 40% off on all riding gear and 50% to 70% off all clothing from December 26 to 30.

Jonathan + Olivia

Sales continue at this Ossington boutique where all fall and winter collections are up to 60% off in store and online.

Vitaly

Everything is 30 to 80% off online and in store at this Queen West boutique that sells men's clothing, accessories and more.

Illesteva

Get some fly sunnies to complete your winter look at this West Queen West sunglasses store from December 26 to 28. Select handmade Italian glasses and other accessories will be 40% off, because winter sun glare is a real problem.

Kotn

As if Egyptian cotton doesn't sound luxurious enough, this store on West Queen West will be giving away decadent coconut wax Hollow Tree candles for every purchase $150 or more before tax. They're also doing an online special where you get a surprise item with purchases of $100 or more before tax.

Hayley Elsaesser

If you haven’t snagged anything from Canadian-born designer Hayley Elsaesser’s wild and colourful boutique, now’s the perfect time to get you some. For all of Boxing Week, the store will be holding the biggest sale it has ever had with 40% off everything in-store and online, including items that are already on sale.

In Vintage We Trust

This Parkdale shop is throwing a one-day sale that will significantly increase your chances of finding that perfect pre-loved gem. All clothes will be 40% off and all Supreme items and books will see a discount of 20%. Don’t forget to sift through their clearance bins of hats, t-shirts, and $20 jackets for more hidden treasures.

Haven

If you’ve haven’t had a chance to check out this store’s massive new location on Richmond Street, head over on Boxing Day to scope out this space’s lofty design and 70% off select menswear and accessories.

Soop Soop

This minimalist shop on Dundas West is celebrating Boxing Day sales from December 26 to 31 with 30% slashed off everything in-store (except for its famous selection of magazines, sad.) On-sale items include clothing from their collection of international alt-couture pieces, jewelry, and accessories.

Sip & Shop Event

Get your buzz on while shopping designer brands at this two-day pop up shop at 363 King Street West. Hosted by Agency North, everything will be up to 70% off plus cocktails, beer and wine will be available, because it’s so much more fun buying clothes from Diane Von Furstenberg when proseccos are in the mix.

SVP Sports

This Queen West sneaker shop is discounting almost everything in the store by 20% on December 26.

Home & Design
 

Drake General Store

Every item in this three-storey hotel gift shop slash design store will be 40% off, as will their online shop. If that’s not exciting enough, all winter accessories will be half off with more surprise discounts expected throughout the day.

Umbra

This renowned modern decor seller near Queen and John is hosting two days of specials. Older items like photo frames and hooks will be half off or more.

Urban Mode

Give your home a makeover with a visit to this furniture store near Queen and Palmerston that carries everything from sleek dressers to colourful ottomans; all in-store items will be 25%.

Lowe’s

Runny faucets and faulty dishwashers no more; now’s the time to upgrade on your kitchen appliances. Lowe’s has deals up to 50% everything you need to make your home run more smoothly, and they’ll deliver all your major appliances for free until December 27.

Hudson’s Bay

Sweet ongoing discounts continue on kitchen essentials, mattresses, and furniture at this department store. Up to 70% of costs are being slashed off pots, pans and mattress sets, and up to 50% on items like sectionals and reclining chairs.

Books

Indigo

Boxing Week sales at Canada's largest bookstore chain run through the end of the month with many items 20% to 30% off or more.

Tech
 

Best Buy

Get your elbows ready: Best Buys across Toronto will be running their crazy annual deals on items like TVs, cameras, and other pricey tech. Starting at 6 a.m., in-store sales include a whopping $500 off Canon Rebel T6 DSLRs and $100 deducted off Beats By Dre headphones.

Moog Audio

Attention all budding DJ’s and speakerheads: this popular audio provider on Queen West will be docking 15% off nearly everything in the store from headphones to DJ spinners for noobs and pros alike.  

The Source

Sales here have been running since the 24th and will continue until the last day of the year. If you’re determined enough to face the hoards of people, you might get lucky and snag some deals on items like Fitbits, Playstation games and Airpods.

Henry's

This camera shop is hosting their Boxing Week sales through January 4 with discounts on all sorts of cameras and accessories.

Vistek

Boxing week at this camera store in Corktown means big discounts on select cameras and lenses.

Boxing day brunch in Toronto is the calorie-heavy reward for sitting through hours and hours of family time. You've been so good this holiday season, but now it's time to be naughty and indulge in all of your favourite morning staples. 

Here's a list of some restaurants open for brunch this Boxing Day in Toronto.

J's Apron

A Hawaiian pulled pork benny is just one of the items you'll discover on the menu at this Harbord Village spot. They'll be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Okay Okay

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the diner in Leslieville will be churning out buttermilk pancakes, fried egg sandwiches and more of your favourite morning staples.

Lisa Marie

This Queen West spot is where to indulge in s'mores pancakes, fried chicken and waffles and eggs benedict.

Cafe Landwer

If you're hankering for a Mediterranean brunch after the holidays make your way to Richmond Hill to sink your teeth into some halloumi shakshouka. They'll be open starting at 8 a.m.

Drake Commissary 

The culinary hub on Sterling Rd. will be doing their weekend brunch with some freshly baked scones and bagels schmeared with charred onion cream cheese among other menu selections.

The Good Fork

This Bloor West Village favourite will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and serving all the usual items including their popular red velvet pancakes. 

Mildred's Temple Kitchen

The Liberty Village staple will launch its 7 Days of Brunchmas on December 26. Load up on pancakes, bacon, mimosas and more.

Cafe Neon

Both their Queen St. and Wallace locations will be open starting at 10 a.m. where you'll find pancakes, omelettes and eggs bennies.

Hollandaise Diner

This Danforth East destination for eggs bennies will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thompson Diner

The hotel diner near King and Bathurst will be open from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. cooking up bacon and eggs,  fried chicken and waffles and more.

What's open and closed on Boxing Day 2017 will help guide you through one of the most hectic shopping days of the year, even as not every store is open on the statutory holiday following Christmas. Looking for a list of boxing day sales? This is what you need.

Here's what's open and closed on Boxing Day in Toronto in 2017. 

General

Closed

• Government offices and banks
• Libraries
• Mail delivery
• Banks

Open

• The TTC will operate on a holiday service schedule.

Food
 

Open

• Most major chains and grocers will be open on Boxing Day, though many will operate on holiday hours. Check online for individual store hours.

Drink
 

Closed

• LCBO
• Beer Store

Open

• For a list of indie bottle shops in Toronto, see this directory. Holiday hours are provided where applicable but we advise calling ahead to confirm.

Malls
 

Open

• Malls are open and operating on extended hours.

Attractions

Closed

• Canada's Wonderland

Open

• Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St. West) - 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• CN Tower (301 Front St. West) - 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
• Gardiner Museum (111 Queens Park) - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Hockey Hall of Fame (30 Yonge St.) - 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Movie theatres
• Ontario Science Centre (770 Don Mills Rd.) - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Royal Ontario Museum (100 Queen's Park) - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (288 Bremner Blvd.) - 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• The Toronto Zoo (2000 Meadowvale Rd.) - 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Warm winter clothing in Toronto is a necessity, no matter how much or little snow we get. Thanks, wind. Specialty outdoor stores and chains stock a wide variety of cold weather items, but Toronto also has some serious home-grown talent in the keeping us warm department.

Here are my picks for the top places to buy warm winter clothing in Toronto.

Uniqlo

This store’s HEATTECH line is the most innovative, affordable, and non-bulky winter-wear you can find. Their Eaton Centre location offers everything from lightweight turtlenecks to tights and socks, using soft fibres specially designed to trap your own body heat inside your clothes without excessive layering.

Burton

World-renowned for their snowboarding apparel, this Vermont-based brand sells winter jackets and snowpants perfect for frolicking outside. They’ve also got some pricier base layers in case you really need to bundle up this season. Check out their first Canadian store ever on Ossington.

Due West

This Queen West store carries a selection of winter parkas from brands like Canada Goose, Parajumpers, and Woolrich. They’re pricey but they’ll definitely keep you looking stylish in the snow.

Marks

Selling some down-to-earth brands for the more rugged man and woman, you’ll find a good selection of heavy duty winter boots here to keep the little piggies warm while hiking or working outside.

Muttonhead

While this store on Roncesvalles carries mostly stylish outdoor gear better suited for a misty rainfall or a cool autumn day, they have a big selection of comfy toques and mitts. Big plus: everything sold here is unisex.

Sweaters are among the warm winter clothing at Muddy George. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Muddy George

Carrying brands from England and Japan that boast top-quality craftsmanship, this Bloorcourt menswear store sells a variety of lambswool crewnecks and elegant wool scarves to keep all you gentlemen looking stylishly prepared for winter.

Sport Chek

If you’re looking for a dependable winter jacket at a reasonable price, come peruse through this store in Eaton’s Centre for an extensive collection of coats and vests from brands like Columbia and North Face.

Moose Knuckles Yorkdale

Dealing exclusively in hip outerwear, this pricey brand in Yorkdale mall carries parkas and sweaters that will make you feel like the cool kid while staying warm.

North Standard

This local Parkdale brand sells cozy hoodies and crewnecks in a variety of earthy colours that are simple but effective. They also sell your standard toques and socks that will make you look and feel very Canadian.

Aritzia

Everybody knows somebody who had a TNA winter jacket at some point, and for good reason. Parkas from here are legitimately warm, offered at reasonable prices with a variety of puffy or slim-fitting parkas.

Sporting Life

This flagship store at Yonge and Eglinton has a massive selection of winter clothing that ranges from affordable to upscale. Short jacket? Long jacket? Down, fleece, lining? Which colour? Seriously, these guys have everything.

MEC

Snow is no problem here. This huge sports store in North York has all you need to face the impending storms to come: jackets, long johns, gloves. And snowshoes, because you never know.

Arc’teryx

This gear is made for hardcore mountain climbers and extreme athletes (they even sell avalanche packs). Come to their store on Queen West and try out their jackets for heightened feelings of sportiness.

The warm winter clothing at Canada Goose's store at Yorkdale doesn't come cheap. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Canada Goose Yorkdale

A Canadian classic, Goose jackets are a sure-fire way to keep toasty all winter long. Join Toronto’s huge army of Goose-wearers and enjoy the benefits of Canada’s favourite fur-trimmed down jacket.

H&M

Yes, this store is mostly known for its fast-fashion designer collaborations but it does carry tons of warm sweaters to layer under your winter jacket, and cute hats and scarves are in abundance here.

Nobis

Located on Queen West, jackets sold here are ideal for city-dwellers trying to stay warm while still looking fashionable. They also have a pricey but interesting little collection of leather and knitted hats to keep your ears protected.

Kit and Ace

Brought to you from the ex-designer of Lululemon, these clothes are predictably lightweight and moveable. Best finds at this Yorkville store are sweaters, hats and anything else made of cashmere.

Anthropologie

Overflowing with colourful knitted sweaters, this multipurpose store in West Queen West is a fun place to browse for warm cardigans and pullovers that will make you look like the most stylish cat lady ever.

Uncle Otis

This staple menswear store in Yorkville has long provided Toronto guys with a big selection of outerwear, from jackets and vests to stylish toques. They’ve also got some wool pants that are great for running quick errands or layering with long johns.

Gotstyle

If you’re looking for layers but don’t want the frumpy kind, check out this Distillery District store with the salon inside for some really stylish sweaters for both men and women.

Zara

Around wintertime this store is always packed. Favourites from here the women’s puffer coats, though their big scarves are also popular for nestling into when the wind picks up.

8th and Main

This store at Yonge and Dundas is huge and has a seemingly endless collection of fleece and knitted crewnecks for men and women. Fuzzy cardigans are a thing here, as are colourful socks with cats and other fun things printed on them.

Mackage

Expensive and trendy, these winter parks come in a few varying designs but are mostly come in mid-length black, browns and dark green coats to keep those thighs warm.

Rudsak

Super sleek and luxurious looking, winter gear from here is all real leather and fur. Drop some serious cash on a bobbled fur toque and a form fitting jacket and you’ll feel like winter royalty.

Patagonia

This sports store on King West has jackets in an array of bright colours, probably to help you stand out in the snow, which can be helpful when climbing a mountain or rushing across the intersection to catch your screet car.

Birthday party ideas in Toronto often comes down to  choosing a venue that's big  enough for everyone on your guest but also unique, special or fun enough to fit the occasion. 

Here are my picks for bars and restaurants to celebrate your birthday in Toronto, broken down by neighbourhood.

The Annex

Fancy yourself a pinball wizard? Take your friends to Tilt for some healthy competition (and less-healthy Chicago-style hot dogs.) This retro barcade has skee-ball, foos-ball and a huge big screen TV for you to impress the crew with your Super Smash Bros. skills. 

Bloorcourt

Civil Liberties is Disneyland for cocktail connoisseurs – but don't expect a long, elaborate drink menu. The bartenders here are known for creating drinkable masterpieces based on the whims of their customers, and they've got plenty of high-end bitters, booze and unique dried ingredients to work with.

Cabbagetown

Are your friends like, sooo busy this week and can't make it out for your birthday after all? Take advantage of a smaller group size by heading to Zakkushi Toronto, a popular Izakaya from Vancouver – because there's nothing like top-notch Japanese food (and tons of Sake) with besties in your own both.

Chinatown

Celebrate your b-day with beer and bao at the trendy Peoples Eatery on Spadina. This place does family-style group dinners for 7+ people on Fridays and Saturdays at $50 a head, making splitting the bill a breeze (though the guest of honour should never have to pay, obvs.)

Church-Wellesley Village

You're pretty much guaranteed to have a good time at Crews & Tangos, but you'll need to get there early to beat the line. If you're a summer baby, you can also take advantage of bar's backyard patio.

Danforth East

Photo ops abound at The Wren, a saloon-style pub that serves up southwestern food, craft beer and cocktails. Designed by a former advertising executive, this space has old west style for days – think wagon wheel chandeliers, salvaged barn-wood tables and a giant vintage Coke ad that was discovered during renovations.

North York

Every Torontonian needs a private-room karaoke party, at least once – and Twister Karaoke near Yonge and Finch is the cream of the crop. With over 300,000 songs in nine different languages, this place bills itself as having "the best song selection in North America." They also serve booze.

Dundas West

Walking into Mahjong Bar is an experience in and of itself. It might look like a regular bodega from the front (albeit a small one with really cool lighting,) but just beyond the glowing keyhole doorway is an ultra-cool, 2000-square-foot bar and restaurant space. If you're looking for the "WOW factor," this is your place.

Junction Triangle

Being popular is hard enough without having choose which friends can fit into your party. The Drake Commissary is big enough to host the whole gang across its spectacularly-designed lounging, dining and dancing spaces. It also has a vintage photo booth, just like its namesake hotel bar on Queen West.

Kensington Market

El Rey, a mezcal bar from Grant van Gameren of Bar Isabel and Bar Raval, is hip, rustic and known for having excellent Mexican food, much like Kensington Market itself. You'll find a large and ever-evolving selection of mezcals here, so all the birthday shots your friends insist on will at least be of good quality.

King East

The Pacific Junction Hotel has dope tacos and a jukebox that lets you control the music overhead (if you're lucky.) It's an extremely colourful place with tons of character – and strong, island-style cocktails that might just give you the courage to get up on a table and dance. It is your birthday, after all.

King West

Because you can't have a raging house party in a 600-square-foot condo, check out The Addisons Residence – a club inspired by the concept of a Beverly Hills house party. From the kitchen table to the living room to the sprawling backyard, this space is gorgeous. Dress nicely. 

Liberty Village

Local Public Eatery is a lofty, laid back sports bar with sizeable semi-circle booths that would serve as a nice birthday drinking base. The vibe here is fun and flirty. Hang out near the shuffleboard table and someone might challenge you to a friendly game – winner buys the next round.

Little Italy

You're one year older, so start preparing for retirement with a few rounds of shuffleboard and bocce ball at Little Italy's Track & Field Bar. To be safe, reserve a lane before heading out for the night. 

Parkdale

Hailed by some as Toronto's most "authentic" Tiki bar, Shameful Tiki Room will make your birthday bash feel like a mini-vacay (or at least a party with an actual theme.) For an extra $15, you can nab one of the bar's custom Tiki mugs to drink out of all night and take home when you're done.

Riverside

The Rooftop at the Broadview Hotel is one of Toronto's most impressive new spots to party and eat. The indoor and outdoor roof spaces of what used to be Jilly’s boast gorgeous views, a lively bar scene and plenty of room for a larger posse of party people.

South Core

If you need a lot of space for a lot of friends, The Rec Room is for you. This 40,000 square foot sports bar has several different sections for dining and drinking, a sprawling play floor with over 100 arcade games, a patio with CN tower views, plus a huge live music venue with a full stage in the back.

West Queen West

Bar Fancy is an ironically-named bar and restaurant that's cool in a "cool without trying" sort of way. It's cozy in this place, but you'll eat like a king or queen should your party manage to land a table. The kitchen here serves excellent fried chicken and stays open until 2am – happy birthday to drunk and hungry late-night you!

Yonge & Eglinton

Birthday cake has nothing on Good Fortune's boozy milkshakes and cotton candy cocktails. Located in the basement of La Carnita on Eglinton, this boisterous bar is kind of loud and kind of dark, but in a good way, with string lights giving off a nighttime summer party vibe.

Boxing Day events in Toronto go beyond all the sales and include a huge EDM dance party, an underground music festival, and plenty of comedy showcases. Also, make sure to take note of what's open and closed today.

For all the attention that the Bridle Path gets for its opulent homes, the land values in Forest Hill make for equally eye-popping prices on typically smaller lots. Take this estate-style house, for example. Located on 3/4 acre lot, it's listed at just shy of $18 million.

That makes it one of the most expensive houses listed in Toronto. What do you get for all that cash? Along with the stature of owning an estate on Old Forest Hill Rd., there's six bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a film screening area, gym, solarium, pool, and coach house-style garage.

The opulence level here is remarkable, though it comes in a tasteful package. Everything about this place screams old money, from the stone exterior to the multiple office spaces in the home. 

If I had to pick a favourite room, it'd be the solarium, from which you can walk out into the garden when the weather's warm enough. It's bright, airy, and just a special place in an already luxurious mansion.

Specs

• Address: 61 Old Forest Hill Rd.
• Price: $17,688,000
• Lot Size: 143.75 x 235 feet
• Bedrooms: 6
• Bathrooms: 10
• Parking: 23
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 72
• Listing agent: Marci Cook and Elise S. Kalles
• Listing ID: C4000149

Good For

The 0.01 percent. Over and above the exorbitant price tag, this estate is located in one of the most prestigious enclaves in Toronto. 

Move On If

I guess one reason to pass on place like this (assuming you can afford it) is that you won't to build your own custom mansion from the ground up. 

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

Restaurants I'd love to see come to Toronto next year are already huge favourites elsewhere in the world. From noodles and burgers to arguably healthier options, I'd be totally stoked to see these places open in the city sometime in 2018.

Burgoo

A handful of these bistros around Vancouver offer the same internationally inspired comfort-food menu of dishes like fondue, mac and cheese, Cubanos and butter chicken, along with excellent service in a rustic setting. That's a winning formula that could definitely do well here.

Ichiran Ramen

Toronto has definitely upped its ramen game over the past few years, but no serious ramen city is complete without an Ichiran (Tokyo, Hong Kong and NYC all have at least one). This extremely popular Japanese chain specializes in customizable tonkotsu ramen that's meant to be eaten solo in "flavour concentration booths."

Marugame Udon

Udon should be the next big Japanese noodle trend in the city, and this cafeteria-style, fast-casual chain that has over a thousand locations worldwide would make us believers, with its udon-making robots and super affordable bowls of thick, tasty noodles.

Tender Greens

Unsurprisingly, this health-conscious "fine-casual," "farm-to-fast-food" chain originated in California and is about to expand to the east coast of the U.S. in a big way. There's no reason why it shouldn't make a small detour up north to our fair city as well.

Whataburger

We've already gone crazy for Shake Shack and In-N-Out. Now that we've covered American burger chains from the east and west coasts, it's time to try one from the South. This Texas-based chain is known for its burgers, but also its more Southern offerings, like taquitos and honey butter chicken biscuits. Plus, it offers two types of ketchup.

Today in Toronto you can attend one of the cheapest musical festivals of the year, hit up a huge EDM spectacle, wander through halls full of comic books, and be a part of a new stand up special. 

The best yoga studios in Toronto encourage a sense of community while offering a place to deepen your yoga practice, strengthen your headstands and unwind for the day. On this list there are studios that integrate a variety of classes and yoga variations and make you feel at home from the moment you walk in.

Here are the best yoga studios in Toronto.

Frigid temperatures have nothing on door crasher deals, it seems, for the hardcore Boxing Day shoppers of Toronto. The city was in a frenzy yesterday as retail outlets slashed prices following Christmas. 

A post shared by Ngawang Gyamtso (@nagtzo) on Dec 26, 2017 at 4:51pm PST

Bargain hunters flocked to local malls by the hundreds of thousands on Tuesday in search of sweet, sweet savings – some of them lining up outside before dawn amidst an extreme cold weather alert.

A post shared by Ariez Reyes (@ariezreyes) on Dec 26, 2017 at 2:59am PST

The Eaton Centre was rammed with tourists and deal-hunters this Boxing Day, which made for some solid time-lapse video footage of the ant-like crowds buzzing about.

A post shared by GKaur (@sshazamm) on Dec 26, 2017 at 12:56pm PST

Yorkdale Shopping Centre was also packed with people. Canada's busiest mall opened officially at 8 a.m. on Boxing Day, but some retailers chose to extend their hours.

A post shared by ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ (@reignalynn) on Dec 26, 2017 at 6:20pm PST

Between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., the mall was expected to attract an estimated 130,000 people.

A post shared by kevinkkso (@kevinkkso) on Dec 26, 2017 at 5:39am PST

Several stores, like Canada Goose and the new Cheesecake Factory restaurant, had lines outside of them for most of the day – though the latter has been like that since it opened last month.

A post shared by Ricky Tsui (@_rtsui) on Dec 26, 2017 at 5:14pm PST

Shoppers reported extreme difficulty getting into and out of Yorkdale by car yesterday. Some of them were stuck in traffic for hours (hours that could have been spent buying stuff, no doubt).

Boxing Day… stuck in traffic for at last an hour! #omg #boxingday

A post shared by Andrea Zheng (@andreaqz_) on Dec 26, 2017 at 2:42pm PST

And parking? Yeah, good luck with that on Boxing Day anywhere, let alone Yorkdale.

A post shared by David (@davidyrocks) on Dec 26, 2017 at 7:12am PST

Vaughan Mills was also pretty hectic with the Boxing Day bonanza.

A post shared by Olga Ru (@olga_ruscha) on Dec 27, 2017 at 4:02am PST

Those who did brave the crowds scored some seriously good deals onclothes, electronics, shoes and more.

The rest of us stayed warm behind the comfort of a computer screen, shopping online – or not shopping at all. Wild.

With 2017 in the rear view mirror it's time to take stock of all the new businesses that opened in the city over the past 12 months. This new poll covers seven categories including new bars, cafes, restaurants, brunch, bakeries, cheap eats and fashion. Voting ends on Thursday January 4 at 11:45 p.m.

Take the poll here

January's free event offerings give the people of Toronto plenty of reasons to get out into snowy city streets. You can try out the new skating trail under the Gardiner, ride the TTC pant-free, and hit up tons of events at Design Week, among other wallet-friendly activities.

New Year's Eve parties in Toronto to ring in 2018 can be found all over the city. There's really big ones and free events but sometimes you just want to get wild in your own area. And don't forget, the TTC is free all NYE and so is GO Transit and UP Express.

Who walked out of Lastman's Bad Boy on Boxing Day with a free Amazon Alexa? NOOOBODY!

Hundreds of people on Reddit are fuming today after someone in the popular, Toronto-specific subforum wrote that "Bad Boy Furniture just scammed a ton of innocent people who waited outside the store for hours for their 'sale and giveaway.'"

"My mother's friend called her saying that he waited outside for two hours this morning, along with several dozen other people in line outside, for the '6-8 AM boxing day sale' at his local Bad Boy Furniture," reads the Reddit post.

He waited, according to the Redditor, "just to have the store representatives tell everyone that they didn't have most of the desired products for sale (particularly the $100 sofa) and there was no Amazon Alexa giveaway."

A flyer for the Toronto-based company's 2017 Boxing Day sale, linked to in that post, advertises a "free Amazon Alexa for the 1st 200 customers only" between 6 and 8 a.m. in "limited quantities, while supplies last."

The $100 sofa (a love seat) mentioned in the Reddit post is also featured in the flyer. "Save $350," reads the ad, which also has a bubble that says "first 50 customers."

"Contact that competition bureau," reads a top comment on the Reddit post, which has been upvoted nearly 1,000 times.

"Advertising goods that you don't actually have is called Bait & Switch," reads another. "It is contained in section of 74.04 of the Competition Act and can result in some hefty fines."

But here's the thing – Bad Boy never advertised an Alexa "giveaway" in the flyer. The Alexa home assistants were a gift with purchase for the first 200 customers.

Those customers will get their free Alexas, according to Bad Boy President Tony Balasingham – just not yet.

"We didn't receive our shipment in time," he said, noting that eligible customers were given rain checks for the Alexa devices.

As for the couches, there were indeed only 50 available to purchase for $98 – but those 50 couches were spread out between all seven of Bad Boy's locations across the GTA.

a little annoyed with @LastmansBadBoy went to buy a couch from the flyer that was advertised as $98 but they sold out before 6:30 am but only had 5 couches ( not 50) to begin with but FLOOR model advertised at $198. is it 50 Canada wide ? why ?

— Stephanie Ferreira (@LeafsgirlSteph) December 26, 2017

Some customers on Twitter and Facebook are complaining that they were unable to get any of the flyer's door-busting deals due to a lack of product.

Many assumed that the "first 200 customers" mentioned in Bad Boy's sale flyer meant the first 200 per store – not the first 200 Ontario-wide.

"Woke up to get the TV deal and a free gift for the first 200 people," wrote one woman on Twitter. "We got No TV (because there was only 7) and no free gift. Very disappointing."

Big thanks to all the #Barrie@LastmansBadBoy staff. especially the super kind lady you was working the front door area this morning. She worked tirelessly for me. To find the tv I just bought, plus my love seat mixup. #WhosBetterThanBadBoy? #NoooBody👌🏻🇨🇦

— jeffrey chase (@jeffrey_chase83) December 26, 2017

Of course, there are plenty of satisfied customers tweeting about how well they made out at the Bad Boy Boxing Day Sale. Some of them had shown up as early as 2 a.m. to take advantage of the deals. 

Balasingham said that dissatisfied customers are always welcome to contact the company.

"We are not here to screw the customers, we are here to take care of the customers," he said.  "Customers are our lifeline — we are always here to take care of our customers."

Mega projects due for completion in Toronto throughout 2018 don't feature anything quite so profound as a new subway line, but there are a handful of projects set to open that will make life in this city better in a variety of ways. 

Here's a look at Toronto mega projects due for completion in 2018. 

The Bentway

Toronto won't have to wait long to get a look at the new park under the Gardiner Expressway in action with the skating trail due to open on January 6, but there's plenty more in store over 2018 with a connected series of (warm weather) trails, park space, and a platform at Fort York.

407 East Phase 2A

While the connection to the 115 will won't open until 2020, the easterly expansion of the 407 continues with a link between Harmony and Taunton roads set to open in January. This should come as good news for commuters into Toronto but also cottagers headed to the Kawarthas.

River City Phase 3

By the time the third phase of this development is finished in 2018, the East Donlands neighbourhood will already be relatively established, but this will be its crowning jewel. Designed by Sacier + Perrotte and ZAS Architects, the building is sure to become one of the nicest in the city. 

Garrison Crossing

Formerly known as the Fort York Pedestrian Bridge, this scope of this project might not be so mega, but given how long it's been in the works, it's amazing that it's actually happening. Construction on the two-platform bridge is scheduled to be complete by summer. 

New areas in Union Station

The massive renovation effort at Union Station won't wrap up by the end of next year, but we can expect a number of features to be complete, including restoration efforts in the Great Hall (early 2018), the various moat cover areas, and the Bay Concourse. 

Despite the popularity of condo rentals in Toronto these days, there are still loads of in-house apartments that offer features not found in the typical high rise building. This upper unit at 497 Salem Avenue, for instance, offers a sprawling two-floor layout with space to spare.

While it's only a one bedroom, it'd be pretty much impossible to find this kind of square footage in a condo at this price. I don't mean to imply that it's cheap, but compared to similarly priced shoe boxes in new developments, the airy quality of this place makes it stand out. 

Other features worth mentioning are the raised ceilings in the living room and bedroom. Throw in hardwood floors and recent renos, and you have the recipe for a very nice-looking space, which might appeal to someone who isn't interested in building amenities or indoor parking. 

Specs

• Address: 497 Salem Ave.
• Apartment type: Upper
• Rent: $1,900
• Furnished? No
• Utilities: Yes
• Air conditioning? Yes
• Bedrooms: 1
• Bathrooms: 1
• Parking: Unspecified
• Laundry? On site
• Pet friendly? Not specified

Good For

This place seems like it's made for a couple who can split the rent and make use of the ample space on offer. The quiet street will appeal to renters who aren't interested in living amidst the bustle of downtown. 

Move On If

Despite steadily increasing rental rates, many will still balk at a one bedroom apartment listed at $1,900. Another downside is subway proximity, which isn't the best. You're looking at a 15 minute walk or a short ride on the Dufferin bus from here. 

Food trends that surfaced in Toronto this past year mostly turned out to be crowd-pleasing and often a lineup-inducing mix of innovative, Instagram-friendly offerings. 

Here's a round-up of the top food trends in Toronto from 2017.

Cheese-based desserts

From cheese tarts and cheese buns to cheesefoam on drinks, the city was inundated with new places whipping up sweet treats featuring this beloved dairy product. We then hit peak cheese-dessert love with epic lineups after the long-awaited debut of The Cheesecake Factory.

These cheese starts from Pablo were just one of the many cheese-related products introduced to Toronto this year. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Charcoal everything

Food made with activated charcoal first showed up near the end of last year, but it really took off in 2017, with all sorts of creative takes that included black ice cream (plus cones), stardust crepe cakes, charcoal and black sesame cupcakes and goth lattes. This stuff may have questionable health benefits, but it sure does look cool on the 'gram.

Vegan takeover

There were previously a smattering of completely vegan/plant-based restaurants in the city, but this year there was definitely a noticeable uptick in openings specializing in animal-free eats. Mythology Diner, Parka Food Co., Palm Lane, Planta Burger, Hello 123 and a second location of Hogtown Vegan are just a few that come to mind.

Hibiscus is just one of the many vendors at the new Assembly Chef's Hall. Photo by Tanya Mok.

Food halls

Food halls are the new food court (but better and more interesting), with Saks leading the way to start the trend here last year. The recent openings of Campo Food Hall and Assembly Chef’s Hall are keeping things solidly rolling, and many more are on their way.

Contemporary French spots 

French cuisine got a hip and delicious update here this year, with places like Aloette, Bacchanal and Cafe Cancan turning out fresh takes on classic dishes in stunning, beautifully designed spaces.

Bacchanal was one of the new restaurant's offering a spin on contemporary French fare. Photo by Hector Vasquez.