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The 5 most exciting real estate developments in Toronto for 2018

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Toronto is primed for a very exciting 2018 when it comes to real estate developments. Along with the occupancy of attention-grabbing buildings like 150 Redpath, Cabin, and East 55, there's a whole slew of marquee projects that will transform the city over the year.

Here are my picks for the most exciting Toronto real estate developments to watch in 2018. 

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 Saucier + Perrotte and ZAS Architects, the building is sure to become one of the nicest in the city. 

Monde

Moshe Safdie's elegant wedge-shaped condo beside Sherbourne Common topped out earlier this year, showing off the stepped tower design that distinguishes it from existing buildings around Bayside. As the cladding is finished, expect this one to look even more marvellous. 

The Massey Tower

While the Massey Tower might not be ready for occupancy until 2019, based on the rate of progress so far, next year will be decisive in revealing what impact the Hariri Pontarini-designed condo will have on our skyline. The early signs are auspicious.

Aquavista

While this development and the nearly completed Aquabella right to the east are quite as exciting as they might have looked in the renderings, the big news is that the eastern lakefront promenade will be extended and Sherbourne Common will get a ton of new life. 

The One

While it probably won't even top out in 2018, Mizrahi's the One will begin to transform the city's most important intersection with a slick design from Foster + Partners that's set to make significant progress next year. You can expect all eyes to be on it as it rises. 


The top 15 clubs for bottle service in Toronto

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Toronto clubs for bottle service are fun, high-energy, and perfect for a night out on the town. Most of the time, it's perfectly appropriate (even desirable) to buy your booze like any other regular club-goer, but there are certain occasions when you just need to treat yourself. 

Here are my picks for the top clubs for bottle service in Toronto.

The Fifth Social Club

Tucked away at Richmond & Duncan is where you'll find this sprawling club. In order to reserve a booth on Friday or Saturday for six to 10 people a two bottle minimum is required, 11 to 15 people is three and 20+ is four. Bottle prices begin at $200. 

EFS

Bottle service is available Wednesday through Saturday at this King West spot. For weeknights there is a $550 minimum spend (+ tip). On Friday there's a $750 minimum spend (+ tip), and Saturday $1500 minimum spend (+ tip). There's always dress code in effect too.

Cake Nightclub

Found in the Entertainment District, this nightclub arguably has the cheapest bottle service in the city. To get bottle service on Fridays you just have to order 1 bottle and on Saturdays you just have to order two. Regular bottles are $150 including tax and tip. 

Uniun Nightclub

If you're a fan of EDM, this club on Adelaide is your spot. If you want to take your partying up a notch reserve one of there 20 booths on Friday or Saturday. The minimum spend is $750 for three bottles and vodka, rum, gin, tequila, cognac, whiskey and scotch are all available. 

Lost and Found

The underground King West club has 16 booths available for bottle service reservations on Monday and Thursday through Saturday. They require a minimum three bottle purchase or $600 minimum spend plus gratuity to reserve a booth. 

Wayward 

This popular nightclub can be found along West Queen West. Bottle service is available on Friday and Saturdays between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. They have 10 booths available as well as two stand up tables. Reservations start at $500 plus 19% gratuity.

Rebel

The re-incarnation of Sound Academy on Polson Pier is the city's largest nightclub. There's over 60 tables available to reserve on any given Saturday. They also have tables available during ticketed events. The minimum spend for a bottle service starts at $750 plus gratuity and tax.

The Everleigh

The King West club offers bottle service on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and long weekend Sundays. To reserve a booth you must purchase at least two bottles. If you're there for a bachelorette, bachelor or birthday you can also order champagne, cupcakes and décor.

Maison Mercer

The massive club on Mercer Street is open on Friday and Saturday. There's 33 tables to reserve and 46 in the summer when the patio is open. To reserve a table a purchase of two bottles is required.

Wallen

This bar can be found along West Queen West. They have 12 tables available for bottle service as well as four standing tables. To secure a table on Thursday there's a two bottle minimum, and on Friday and Saturday there's a tree bottle minimum.

The Citizen

Bottle service at this King West restaurant and nightclub is available on Friday and Saturdays. With a reservation, they are able to include a limited amount of complimentary entries. There's a $550 minimum spend which gets two bottles and 10 complementary guests. 

Early Mercy

Found across the street from The Citizen, the former Grand & Toy has 11 tables available for bottle service. That number doubles come summer time when the patio is open. A two bottle minimum purchase is required for bottle service, and bottles start as low as $180. 

Wildflower

The nightclub inside the Thompson Hotel offers bottle service Thursday through Sunday. They require a minimum spend of $500 (+gratuity) on Thursday and Friday and $750 (+gratuity) on Saturday and Sunday. To reserve you just need to visit their website or call.

The Libertine

The underground lounge on Dundas West has five booths available for bottle service along with the option to secure a bottle at the bar top. They are open Thursday through Saturday and require a minimum purchase of two bottles. Bottles start at $230. 

Goldie

Bottle service is available on both floors of this King West spot but the real party is on the second floor. The upstairs is open Thursday through Saturday and there are nine bottle service tables. The minimum spend varies depending on the day and party size, but it starts around $750. 

King Street is getting a whole bunch of new public spaces

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The King Street Transit Pilot has already transformed Toronto's downtown core in terms of how we get around, but the busy surface route's grand transformation is far from over yet.

In just a few months, the City of Toronto will start installing a series of new, "vibrant, animated public spaces" along King Street between Bathurst and Jarvis.

The spaces, of which there are 19 in total, will be located in the curb lanes of King Street, either on raised platforms adjacent to the sidewalk or on the roadbed itself.

A map released by The City of Toronto shows where the new public spaces will be located. This section shows five of the already-market locations between Portland and Spadina. Image via City of Toronto.

They'll vary in length between 17 and 170 metres according to the city, with one of the largest stretches running along the south side of King St. next to David Pecaut Square (an area of the road most Torontonians are already used to chilling on thanks to TIFF's Festival Street).

Planters were installed earlier this month to demarcate where the spaces will be, but it's still unclear as to what, exactly, they'll be used for.

The City hopes to see these spaces serve "a variety of uses as part of the King Street Transit Pilot." Stated potential uses include "relief valves" for pedestrians on crowded sidewalks, additional seating for local restaurants and cafes, the placement of creative installations and bicycle parking.

King Street pilot

Jersey barriers with custom graphics currently block off vehicle traffic in the curb lanes of King Street. Photo via City of Toronto.

But those are just some initial guidelines. On January 15, the city will be launching a design competition for citizens to "be part of and contribute to the rethinking of King Street."

"The intent of the competition is to create a series of attractive curb lane public spaces on King Street for all to enjoy," reads a website for the Everyone is King Design Build Competition.

Individuals, arts and community groups, not-for-profit organizations and institutions are all invited to bring forward their design ideas for two different competition streams.

Seattle street Scrabble

A giant street Scrabble game in Seattle is one of several neat projects included in the City of Toronto's design brief for the Everyone Is King Design Build Competition. Image via trendingcity.org.

Competition stream one focuses on "temporary public space installations" such as road murals, mazes, go-karts, zip-lines, hopscotch, ping pong, photo exhibits, light projections, fashion shows, Little Free Libraries, yoga spaces and more.

A giant street scrabble game in Seattle and an ice carving exhibition in Sapporo, Japan are among several projects listed as inspiration.

The second competition stream, called "durable destination parklets," is for more permanent seating areas and green spaces in the curb lanes.

Boston Lego Parklet

Four "ad-bloc" parklets were installed around Boston a few summers ago. The innovative seating and planter blocks can be stacked and combined for different public space options. Image via opencityprojects.com.

Examples given for this stream of the competition include cool shipping container parklets in Montreal and Paris, transformable, Lego-inspired public seating in Boston and the illuminated wooden parklet that popped up on Toronto's own Elm Street this summer.

"Two City funded King Street parklets will showcase excellence through the great design of resilient, movable and reusable public amenities," reads the city's website. "After the Pilot, these parklets will continue to be enjoyed, perhaps in another City location."

All of the temporary public space installations and durable destination parklets created under the design competition are scheduled to open on April 15, 2018.

New Years at Nathan Phillips Square curbed by cold weather

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Bad news for everyone holding out hope that "it won't be that cold" on New Year's Eve: It will be. Sorry.

Environment Canada is forecasting a low of -23 C on Sunday evening, and that doesn't even include the wind chill (which could make it feel like -30 C or below).

Toronto Public Health has yet to lift the extreme cold weather alert that's been in effect across the city since Christmas and, with no relief from the freeze in sight, things don't look very promising for outdoor revellers.

The city just announced that it will be shortening its annual New Year's Eve celebration at Nathan Phillips Square for 2018 "due to current extreme cold weather conditions."

"The New Year's Eve event will begin shortly before midnight with a live DJ set, followed by a countdown to the fireworks display at midnight, as planned," reads a media release issued by City Hall on Friday.

"The City will continue to monitor weather conditions over the next 48 hours and make further adjustments, if necessary."

Fortunately for those who insist on going out, there are loads of other parties taking place on NYE. There are also plenty of ways to get around town this Sunday night – for free– that don't involve walking in the cold. 

What Chinatown used to look like in Toronto

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There's really no such thing as a history of Chinatown in Toronto. Instead, there's a history of Chinatowns, and not just in the areas that many people are familiar with today.

The first Chinese settlers in Toronto opened laundries in the 1870s, an occupation that was dominant over the next few decades before the number of Chinese immigrants grew in the city.

chinatown history toronto

Toronto's Chinese population was tiny prior to the early 20th century, with roughly 200 residents scattered in various areas, including clusters on Queen East near George St. and Queen West near York St.

The burgeoning Queen East Chinatown was short-lived, but the one to the west of Yonge would eventually migrate north towards Dundas St. and become the city's first major Chinese community.

chinatown history torontoBy 1910, the Chinese population in Toronto was creeping towards 1,000 and storefronts along Elizabeth St. started to bear Chinese-language signage.

This was the same period when Chinese restaurants first opened in the city. The laundries still existed, but the community's business interests diversified as it grew.

chinatown history torontoOver the next 40 years, the Elizabeth St. Chinatown was a robust and thriving community, housing both the businesses and residences of the city's Chinese population, which was now growing rapidly.

It's quite possible that this Chinatown would have remained the primary hub of Chinese culture in Toronto had it not been for the arrival of New City Hall, which expropriated many businesses and knocked out whole streets of the old Ward neighbourhood.

chinatown history toronto

Despite the fact that so many Chinese businesses were razed for the construction of Nathan Phillips Square, remaining area residents successfully fought city plans to relocate the community outright.

Rising real estate prices, however, led to the gradual shift of Chinese businesses west along Dundas St., which gave rise to one of the main Chinatowns that we know today.

chinatown toronto

Toronto's Chinatown West, concentrated around Dundas and Spadina, arose as the Jewish population moved away from the area in the 1960s. By the 1970s, half of the area was populated by Chinese residents, while grocery stores and restaurants proliferated.

By 1979, the area was afforded a special identity by the city planning department, which ensures that character of the neighbourhood is protected from massive redevelopment.

chinatown history toronto

Thanks to these protections, the visual character of Chinatown West has remained remarkably consistent for the last three decades. Take a look at photos from the area between the late 1970s and 1990s, and unless there's vehicles in the background, you'll likely have difficulty placing the year with any precision.

chinatown history torontoIn fact, the most significant change to the neighbourhood came in the 80s when the street was ripped up to install dedicated lanes for the 510 streetcar.

This project led to the removal of the diagonal parking on Spadina from College St. to just north of Queen, which was a signature of the street that distinguished it from pretty much every other major thoroughfare in Toronto.

chinatown toronto

The story of East Chinatown is directly linked to the success of Chinatown West. As the latter neighbourhood hit its stride in the late 1970s, it became more and more expensive to live there.

While Dundas and Spadina was the commercial hub, many families were attracted to the Riverdale area for home occupancy.

chinatown history torontoUnsurprisingly, as the number of Chinese residents increased in Riverdale, businesses started to pop up in the area. There was almost no visible Chinese presence in the neighbourhood at the outset of the 1970s, but by the mid 80s, storefronts had radiated from Gerrard and Broadview south towards Dundas and east toward Boulton Ave.

chinatown history toronto

Today, both Chinatowns remain stable hubs of Chinese culture in Toronto, even as large segments of the population have migrated away from the neighbourhoods.

Now you'd have to argue that the Pacific Mall deserves its own designation as a Toronto-area Chinatown, as well as other pockets of Markham.

The rise of new Chinatowns is in keeping with the history of Toronto's Chinese population, though the two downtown hubs are so entrenched in our urban culture that it's impossible to imagine the city without them.

The top 10 rinks for late night skating in Toronto

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Late night skating is a Toronto tradition, whether it be in the form of an energetic game of shiny or a romantic twirl on an abandoned rink. While the majority of Toronto's outdoor rinks are locked down after 9 p.m. or so, there are a host of exceptions spread across the city.

Here are my picks for the top rinks for late night skating in Toronto.

Nathan Phillips Square

The most obvious rink for late night skating in Toronto is still its best. The backdrop of city hall and the Financial District make up for the snowy ice and the likelihood that you'll be accompanied by other people with the same romantic idea as you.

Natrel Rink

Late night skates at Harbourfront can be chilly affairs on windy nights, but the view of the black lake to the south of the rink is worth the extra layer of clothing you'll inevitably have to wear. They even host free DJ skate nights for your partying pleasure throughout the winter. 

Ryerson Community Park

The outdoor rink found on Gould St. is not gated and is unsupervised. While the maintenance of the rink may not be the best, it's a great place for impromptu games of shiny after midnight.

Mel Lastman Square

One of the best bets for those who live north of the 401, the centrally located Mel Lastman Square often plays host to a small contingent of post-midnight skaters. If you head there late enough (say after 2 a.m.), you might just get the entire pad to yourself.

Alexandra Park

Like a number of other rinks on this list, the hockey side of the double pad at Bathurst and Dundas is protected by a fence and not easily accessible after hours. The pleasure skating side is, however, one of the nicer sheets of ice to hit at night thanks to then end of day Zamboni.

Ledbury Park

Here's another quiet rink, though you might occasionally find a few North Toronto kids out for game of shiny in the wee hours. The rink is, however, long enough to accommodate hockey players at one end pleasure skaters at the other.

Wallace Emerson Park

The hockey rink side of Wallace Emerson is fenced-in (though sometimes you might get lucky and find it unlocked), but the pleasure skating pad is accessible at all hours, which attracts both late night pleasure skaters and shiny types.

Sherborne Common

You will be cold at this outdoor rink, but the view of the skyline to the west and the near guarantee that the rink will be abandoned should prove a draw for those after some quiet one on one time.

Colonel Sam Smith Park

This Toronto skating trail - soon to be rivaled by the trail under the Gardiner -  is unsurprisingly accessible at all hours of the day. The lighting is a bit low late at night and the snow buildup can be a bit annoying, but it's still one of the prettier places to skate in the dark.

Rennie Park

Rennie is another double pad rink in which the hockey area is protected by a fence, and thus typically inaccessible after hours. The pleasure skating pad is, however, unique for its central tree, which serves as a natural focal point for folks to skate around.

What's open and closed New Year's Day in Toronto 2018

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What's open and closed in Toronto on New Year's Day 2018 is vital information to find your way around the city when seemingly everything is shut down. Similar to Christmas Day, it's one of the few days of the year when most of the of the city is on pause.

Here's what's open and closed on New Year's Day in Toronto. 

General
 
Closed
  • Government office and banks
  • Libraries
  • Mail delivery
  • Banks
Open
  • The TTC will run on a Sunday service schedule

Open New Years Toronto

Just like Christmas Day, Popbox MicroMrkt will remain open on New Year's Day. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Food
 
Closed
  • Most major grocery chains will be closed on New Year's Day with a few confirmed exceptions listed below.
Open

Open New Years Toronto

Kick off 2018 with a cold one from Left Field Brewery. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Drink
 
Closed
  • The Beer Store
  • LCBO
Open
  • For a complete list of indie bottle shops in Toronto, see this directory. Holiday hours are provided where applicable but we advise calling ahead to confirm.

Open New Years Toronto

CF Toronto Eaton Centre will be one of the many shopping centres open on New Year's Day. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Malls
 
Closed
  • Bayview Village Shops
  • CF Fairview Mall
  • CF Sherway Gardens
  • Dufferin Mall
  • Scarborough Town Centre
  • Yorkdale Shopping Centre
  • Yorkville Village
Open

Open New Years Day

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada is open 365 days of the year. Photo by Andrew Williamson.

Attractions
 
Closed
  • Canada's Wonderland
  • Gardiner Museum
  • Hockey Hall of Fame
Open

The top 35 pubs in Toronto by neighbourhood

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Good pubs are essential to any neighbourhood, and in Toronto many areas boast plentiful options. Irish or not, these local haunts come complete with solid beer lists and menus featuring an array of your favourite pub foods.

Here are my picks for the top pubs in Toronto by neighbourhood.

Annex

Brewhaha is a craft beer lounge in one of the oldest English pubs in Toronto, taking up the basement level of the Duke of York on Prince Arthur. They boast a menu that features dozens of craft beers and basic bar eats.

Bayview & Leaside

Barrel House is another iteration of the Amsterdam Brewing brand. The spacious multi-level pub is just steps from their main brewing facility, and nominally houses their barrel-aged and sour beer programs.

Beaches

Castro's Lounge is serious about good beer, offering a wide selection of cans and bottles, plus over half a dozen taps and a revolving selection of microbrews. To eat, you'll find an all-vegetarian menu of pub grub.

Bloor West Village

Bryden's is a mainstay in this neighbourhood where. You'll find rotating taps and a lineup of classic comfort foods. The menu offers ample variety, spanning from nachos and burgers to curries and macaroni and cheese.

Bloorcourt

Tallboys, the craft beer house at Bloor and Shaw, is a magnet for locals looking for a casual bite and a cold one. Double-smashed burgers and tacos are among the menu highlights.

Cabbagetown

Stout Irish Pub has the exact right vibe you'd want from your local watering hole. There are over a dozen beers on tap and the food is classic rib-sticking pub grub.

Church Wellesley Village

Toronto's only gay sports bar Striker can be found on St. Joseph St. The space is filled with dozens of HD screens, a good array of beers on tap and a menu filled with all your favourite pub staples.

Toronto Pubs

Grab a table or lounge at Dominion Pub & Kitchen on Queen. Photo by Jesse Milns. 

Corktown

Dominion Pub & Kitchen is the iteration of the Dominion on Queen, a landmark pub in the neighbourhood that was first established in 1889. Here you'll find a great selection of beer cans along with two dozen beers on tap. 

Danforth

Don't be fooled by the name - the Only Cafe isn't just a coffee house, but an excellent spot for good beer where the selection includes 230 bottles and cans plus 25 local craft taps.

Danforth East

The Wren is a saloon-style pub on the Danforth pouring local craft brews and dishing out a menu of beer-friendly food inspired by the Southwest.

Dundas West

The Contender is just one of the many sports bars to hit this neighbourhood. They boast a solid list of craft beers along with a menu of classic game day eats like nachos and foot-longs. 

Entertainment District

Bar Hop offers a discerning collection of seasonal brews, table bottles and ciders. The menu of bar foods features upmarket riffs on the classics, look forward to choices like house jerky and fish and chips.

Etobicoke

Refinery Public House has a menu of elevated pub food and prices it all at just $6.95. As far as drinks go, they have a great selection of craft beer and cider from brewers like Great Lakes Brewery, Side Launch Brewery and Steam Whistle.

Financial District

When it comes to finding a watering hole in the Financial District, look no further than King Taps, where the menu of beer is extensive and there's a food menu to match. 

Harbourfront

The Goodman Pub & Kitchen is a massive bar and restaurant with stellar views of Toronto’s waterfront. Expect traditional pub fare along with over 24 beers on tap and 20 bottles.

High Park

Residents in this neighbourhood are lucky to claim the Mugshot Tavern as their own - the joint is a beacon for lunch, dinner and late night eats, and the bar is well stocked with bourbon, craft beer, and cask conditioned ale.

Junction

Indie Ale House is committed to adventurous beer making, yielding flagship brews like the Breakfast Porter. In addition to the always-evolving bar menu they have a menu of pub fare too.

King East

There's nothing not to like about Betty's - the divey hangout pours pints from over two dozen taps and keeps the kitchen open late.

Belfast Love Toronto

Grab a cold one and watch the big game at Belfast Love. Photo by Jesse Milns.

King West

Belfast Love is the first Toronto venture from the Donnelly Group, a company that's already well-known for its pubs. It's a massive multi-room watering hole that has all the essentials, including beer, whisky and at least a dozen TVs.

Leslieville

Ceili Cottage is a lively Irish public house where staples on the made-from-scratch menu include corned beef.  To drink, you'll find lagers, ales, ciders and stouts sourced from both across the pond and locally.

Liberty Village

Pubs thrive in in this neighbourhood thanks in part to all the office workers. Local Public Eatery manages to distinguish itself with an always changing line-up craft brews on tap and fun vibes. 

Little India

Tucked away on Ashdale at Gerrard, Eulalie's Corner Store is the spot in this 'hood to stop for a bite and a tipple. The bar has rotating menu of beers on tap along with over 20 can offerings. 

Little Italy

The selection of scotch far exceeds the range of beers at The Caledonian, though locals are keen on the Scottish pub for more than just the drinks menu. When it comes to hearty, wholesome eats, this place has got hungry guests covered with scotch eggs and haggis.

Mount Pleasant 

The Belsize is a pub that does elevated bar classics like house-made burgers and sausages. The taps are always changing so prepare to try something new with each visit.

Parkdale

The Cadillac Lounge is a kitschy bar that's brimming with good vibes, live music and a diverse clientele. Head over for brunch, dinner or just drinks.

Riverside

Eastbound Brewing Company is a prime place to enjoy an ice cold beer. At dinner, find a hodgepodge of plates like duck liver pate and baked ricotta gnudi. 

Roncesvalles Village

The Local is a neighbourhood haunt where live music and beer contribute to a convivial atmosphere. Expect to find a typical array of deep fried pub foods like chicken wings and fish and chips, plus some unique fusion foods.

Rosedale

Going strong for over 20 years, the Rebel House is a beloved spot for classic pub standbys like pickled eggs and blue plate specials. The wine list is devoted to VQA labels and the ever-changing beer menu specializes in premium draught.

Victorian Monkey Toronto

Victorian Monkey has the ample seating for groups of any size. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Scarborough

Victorian Monkey tops our list of best pubs in Scarborough. They offer a wide variety of beers in cans and on tap featuring lots of local brewers. They also have a solid menu of pub food featuring nightly specials. 

St. Clair West

Dave's on St. Clair prides itself on offering a menu of well-crafted pub foods and a carefully considered lineup of beers. You can't go wrong here with a pitcher and pizza.

Upper Beaches

The Grover has been around since 1982. The pub offers a menu of pub grub, rotating taps and the option to try a bunch by ordering a craft beer flight.

West Queen West

Dog & Bear on Queen St. is a sports-friendly beer hall with 20 beers on tap and a menu featuring wings, nachos, cottage pies, and big English breakfasts.

Yonge & Dundas

The Queen & Beaver is an inviting Victorian boozer on Elm St. dedicated to offering an excellent assortment of beers, wines and Brit-style comfort foods.

Yonge & Eglinton

Duke of Kent has been the go-to corner pub in this neighbourhood for years, earning a solid reputation for an always fresh selection of draught beers and pub standards like wings and nachos.

Yonge & St. Clair

The Monk's Table boasts one of the city's best selection of European beers on draught. Beer-friendly foods on offer include bratwurst, burgers and pork schnitzel.


The 15 most anticipated concerts in Toronto for 2018

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The most anticipated concerts in Toronto for 2018 include huge shows from stadium filling pop stars as well as the return of hometown heroes playing some of the city's most iconic venues. Whether you're someone craving the next big sound or looking to get nostalgic, there's plenty of shows to get excited about this year. 

Events you might want to check out:

Brockhampton (February 8 @ REBEL)
The 15-member hip hop collective released a trilogy of albums in 2017 and are set to play the new material live for Toronto, showcasing each member's unique musical skill set live.
Tyler the Creator and Vince Staples (February 17 @ Ricoh Coliseum)
Two rap powerhouses hit the stage for one night in Toronto during their joint North American tour. Either one of these artists performing would be cause for celebration, so consider yourself double lucky.
Lido Pimienta (February 17 @ The Drake Hotel)
2017 was a defining year for Toronto local Lido Pimienta after winning the Polaris Prize and starting her "women of colour to the front" movement. Later this year she brings La Papessa to the Drake live.
Demi Lovato and DJ Khaled (March 19 @ Air Canada Centre)
Just as winter comes to a close, Demi Lovato and DJ Khaled will bring a dose of social media star power to the ACC in support of the former's 2017 album Tell Me You Love Me.
Lorde (March 29 @ Air Canada Centre)
The New Zealand born singer-songwriter and undisputed queen of dark pop returns to Toronto in support of her fabulous sophomore album Melodrama. It'll the the first big show of the spring.
BADBADNOTGOOD (March 30 @ The Danforth Music Hall)
Toronto has loved BADBADNOTGOOD for years, but they earned an international audience in 2017 after Snoop Dogg sampled them on a hugely viral track. They're back in Toronto for two nights at Danforth.
Born Ruffians (April 4 @ Lee's Palace)
These indie rock mainstays have gone quiet since the release of Ruff back in 2015, leaving Toronto hungry for more. They're finally answering our call with five nights at Lee's Palace.
Khalid (May 30 @ RBC Echo Beach)
The American Teen himself, Khalid plays a rain or shine show at Echo Beach at the end of May. The singer songwriter's cutting edge R&B vibe will perfectly transition you into the summer season.
Sam Smith (June 18 @ Air Canada Centre)
The British soul singing heartthrob lands in Toronto this June in support of his sophomore record The Thrill of It All. Bring plenty of Kleenex to this one.
Foo Fighters (July 12 @ Rogers Centre)
Dave Grohl and the boys hit up Toronto for a night of rock and roll you won't soon forget. Their last worldwide tour featured an epic throne made of guitars, so expect some crazy theatrics.
Weezer and Pixies (July 14 @ Budweiser Stage)
Two forces of nature in the alt rock world collide, bringing singalong anthems from their 20+ year careers to Toronto. This is a 90s kid's dream come true.
Harry Styles (July 16 @ ACC)
You might have thought the former One Direction boys would fade away after their breakup, but Harry Styles' solid debut album proved otherwise. He tours the self titled album in July.
Taylor Swift (August 4 @ Rogers Centre)
Taylor Swift's sixth studio album was the target of ridicule for its corny artwork and "Bad Taylor" aesthetic, but no one can deny it's a monster of a pop album. Are you ready for it live?
Ed Sheeran (August 30 @ Rogers Centre)
Like Ed says, the club isn't the best place to find a lover. That's why he's bringing his live show to the biggest music venue Toronto has to offer, where he'll serenade you for two nights.
Niall Horan and Maren Morris (September 5 @ Budweiser Stage)
Speaking of One Directioners, Niall's "Slow Hands" dominated the charts last year, cementing him as a musical force to be reckoned with. He joins queen of country Maren Morris at the Budweiser Stage.

The 10 biggest restaurant flops in Toronto from 2017

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The biggest restaurant flops in Toronto this past year covered everything from a cereal cafe and a sushi-burrito joint to a soup-and-salad spot that only lasted for a few days. These failures just prove that success in the restaurant biz can be a tough nut to crack.

Here are my picks for the biggest restaurant flops in Toronto from 2017.

Silo 13

This cereal cafe in North York was only open for a couple of months before it closed abruptly. Apparently Toronto didn't want to pay $10 for a bowl of cereal.

Untold

Possibly the most confounding opening of the year, this soup-and-salad bar in Leaside was barely open before shutting down for good a few days later.

Republic

Sometimes "hidden" spots work well, but this is one example of it backfiring. This hard-to-find Lebanese cafe that was in the Entertainment District went belly up after six months in business.

Rollipub

Food truck Sushitto opened its first brick-and-mortar restaurant in Little Italy at the end of 2016 only to have it shutter less than a year later. It's now been replaced with a second location of Bi Bim Bap.

Abbiocco

Lasting only half a year, this Italian restaurant in Little Italy that was previously Frank's Kitchen is now a French bistro called Chez's.

AF1 Caribbean Canteen

Yet another casualty in Little Italy, this space at College & Clinton may be cursed, as nothing has managed to survive here over the past few years.

Rancho Relaxo

Talk about confusing: this space by College & Spadina has changed identities quite a bit over the past few years since it was last a Rancho Relaxo. It reopened again as Rancho at the end of last year, only to close again less than a year later. It's now a location of Karma's Kitchen.

Janie Jones

Interestingly enough, Davy Love, the man who took over the Rancho space after it first closed, opened this brunch spot on Gerrard East in Leslieville that lasted less than six months, and is now a third location for La Cubana.

Sammich

This sandwich shop on West Queen West near Trinity Bellwoods closed at the start of this year, only four months after opening.

Game of Cheese

Having opened in May, this lactose-loving Asian fusion restaurant in Richmond Hill closed this month, less than a year later. It's going to turn into another location for Dagu Rice Noodle.

10 free events on New Year's Eve in Toronto

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Free events on New Year's Eve allow Toronto to end 2017 on a high note without having to start 2018 with an empty wallet. While there are plenty of parties that will take your money, these ones don't cost a cent and might even feature fireworks, music and live magic.

Events you might want to check out:

New Year's Eve at Nathan Phillips Square (December 31 @ Nathan Phillips Square)
Ring in the New Year at Nathan Phillips Square with DJs, live electronic music, a DJ skating party and a stunning fireworks display at midnight.
Sam Cash's New Year's Eve Bowling Party (December 31 @ The Ballroom Bowl)
Great bands, free bowling, and serious dancing await at this no cover party. Sam Cash is set to bring the rock, and a secret headliner is still yet to be revealed.
Knockout New Year's Eve (December 31 @ Raiders Esports Centre)
Raiders has taken everything you hate about New Year's and thrown it out the window. No lines, no tickets, no expensive bottle service, just games, dancing, and fun.
NYE Pajama Party (December 31 @ East of Brunswick)
Pajama Parties aren't just for kids, you know. Put 2017 to bed and ring in the new year in comfort, with raffles, door prizes, and DJ Regina spinning all night.
Drake Commissary NYE (December 31 @ Drake Commissary)
The Drake Commissary takes advantage of its huge space with a no cover party featuring Dee Jay Ing and Sayzon spinning chill vibes all night.
New Year's Eve at Swan Dive (December 31 - January 1 @ Swan Dive)
DJ Markoshi is playing 80s and 90s guilty pleasures, old school hip hop, and motown all night. No cover, no pretentious BS, just a good time.
Black & White Bash: Magic from Baldini (December 31 @ The Pour House)
Dress up to the nines and dine, drink and dance the night away on the rooftop patio with music from DJ Dash and live magic from Toronto magician Baldini.
House Party! (December 31 @ Pogue Mahone)
Hang out at this traditional Irish pub by College and Bay Street as DJ Ikanpro spins tunes that'll emulate the feeling of a New Year's Eve house party.
New Beer's Eve Partay (December 31 @ Wise Bar)
From 10 p.m. onwards, swing by this Bloorcourt bar and dance to music from DJ Remi, chow down on free snacks, and check out new bottles.
New Year's Eve With DJ Corey Dawkins (December 31 @ 3030 Dundas West)
Cap off 2017 at 3030 for a night of funk, soul, hip-hop, dance hall, and more. No cover, and the kitchen stays open until midnight.

The top 30 restaurants for New Year's Eve dinner in Toronto

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Restaurants for New Year's Eve dinner in Toronto are available at all price points to help ring in 2018. You can choose to eat on the earlier side and party your night away, or grab a late seating and do the countdown right at your table.

Here are my picks for the top restaurants for New Year's Eve in Toronto this year.

The Ace

This Roncesvalles restaurant is offering a prix fixe dinner menu on the big night, which includes mains like braised pork with sunchoke puree and a complimentary glass of bubbly. Reserve your table for 10 p.m. or later and join them for the countdown.

Grey Gardens

A five-course dinner will be on offer for $100 at this Kensington Market spot. The menu includes everything from lamb tartare to duck with wild rice. Call to reserve a table.

Bar Reyna

If you plan to ring in 2018 in Yorkville, head to this Mediterranean restaurant. On December 31 they'll be serving passed hors d'oeuvres and offering range of food stations, plus a chocolate fountain. Champagne will be served at midnight. Reserve your $95 ticket online.

The Civic

Located on the main floor of the The Broadview Hotel, this restaurant will play host to one of three celebrations happening inside. Reserve a spot for dinner by emailing and come prepared to scarf down a delectable three-course meal.

Shanee

Make your way to Little Italy on December 31 to indulge in an AYCE Thai dinner. Seatings will begin at 1 p.m. and run all the way until 10:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online. Khao soi, pad thai, green curry and tom yum soup are just a few of the items available.

Drake One Fifty Toronto

Expect a buzzing crowd at The Drake 150 on New Year's. Photo by Jesse milns.

Drake One Fifty

Seatings at the Financial District restaurant will take place at 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and will include a four-course meal at $75 a person. There will be a glass of bubbles to start, followed with a seafood platter, lobster carbonara, rack of lamb, and dessert.

Estia

You can select from this Yorkville restaurant's $95 group dining menu or the $145 truffle tasting menu for the special night. Reservations can be made online.

Boralia

The four-course set tasting menu at this restaurant on Ossington is $75. It features smoked goose breast, roast bison ribeye, and a dessert to die for. Reservations are available over the phone and by email only.

The Carbon Bar

This Queen East restaurant will be serving a family-style feast with three seatings. The first and second seatings are set at $59 and $79 per person, but it's the $99 final seating, which carries into the New Year, that you really want to bite into.

R & D

Ring in 2018 in Chinatown with Chef Eric Chong’s special $55 four course dinner, featuring items like seafood chow mein and kalbi beef.

Dailo

Chef Nick Liu's NYE tasting menu is a work of art. The menu at this Little Italy restaurant will be $100 per person and will include shrimp toast and foie gras, miso artichoke dumplings and a 90 day dry aged beef ribeye.

Gare de l'Est

Found in Leslieville, the French restaurant will have a set menu for New Year's Eve. The $75 menu includes an amuse to start followed by mains like steak and scallops. Reservations can be made via phone.

Bar Sybanne

Four seating times are available at this Ossington restaurant. The last seating is at 11 p.m. and then the restaurant will transition into a party with dancing. It'll set you back $45 per person and will include a Sybanne-style sharing menu. Reserve a spot online.

Beast Restaurant

This cozy dining space on Tecumseth is heavy on carnivorous offerings and will be hosting a dinner at $80 per person. The menu includes sea urchin, grilled sweetbreads, gnocchi and sticky toffee pudding. Reservations can be made via phone.

The Good Son

For NYE this Italian restaurant on West Queen West will be serving a three course menu for $55. In addition to the main offering, a la carte options like oysters, caviar and seared foie gras will also be available.

Lena Toronto

Lena offers lots of seating and can accommodate groups of many sizes. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Lena

Chef Julie's $75 four-course prix fixe will add a little Latin flare to your New Year’s Eve celebrations. Tuna crudo, mushroom minestrone, and grilled cornish hen will all be available that evening at the Financial District spot.

Fring’s

Drake and Susur Lee's restaurant on King West will serve up a $95 four course meal on the last night of 2017. It includes butternut squash soup, wild boar bucatini, surf and turf and a pear tart. You'll also be served a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

Craft Beer Market

New Year's at this Financial District beer market will entail a special edition of their monthly Brewmaster's Dinner. Tickets cost $80 and can be purchased online. Your ticket includes a four-course dinner, beer pairings, party favours and champagne at midnight.

Kiin

For New Year's Eve, Chef Nuit is doing a royal Thai dinner. Early seating at the Entertainment District restaurant runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will cost $60.00. The late seating will run from 8:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. and will cost $100. All tickets can be purchased online.

Marben

Seating times and prices at this King West spot are $65 for seatings between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and $85 at 9 p.m. Beverage pairings to meals can be added for a fee of $35/$50. Reservations can be done online.

Piano Piano

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Harbord Village with one of three seatings available here. Prices vary from $99 to $140 and include a four-course meal.

Planta

Need to finish off your year with a plant-based meal? This Bay Street restaurant will offer various seatings throughout the evening, some of which include the option to add an open bar. Call to reserve a seat.

Miku

This NYE dinner at this Japanese spot in South Core will not disappoint. It's a six-course set menu for $150 with the option to add a premium sake pairing for $50 more.

Noorden

This Yonge & Eglinton restaurant is hosting a Rijsttafel party on the big night. It'll consist of an elaborate Dutch meal for $68 per person. Book your spot by emailing them.

Patois Toronto

Patois will be party central come New Year's Eve in Toronto. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Patois

The Dundas West fusion spot will be joining forces with Superpoint and Smoke Signals for NYE. They've put together a special menu for the night and will be doing two seatings which range from $65 to $75 per person.

Lbs.

Two NYE menus will be available at this seafood restaurant in the Financial District. Select from the Lbs. classic for $92 or Lbs. grand for $125 which features Alaskan king crab, shaved black truffles and Henriot Champagne to toast in 2018.

Bacchanal

The West Queen West restaurant is pulling out all the stops for their New Year's Eve celebrations. The French restaurant will offer an all-you-can-eat buffet feast alongside an open bar for $195 all in. Call to reserve your spot.

Superpoint

Indulge in a special lobster supper at this pizza joint on Ossington for $45. Pizzas and salads will also be available that evening. Email to reserve a seat.

Loka

Both an omnivore and vegetarian versions of a 5-course pre-fixe menu will be available for $75 on NYE. You can book a spot at this Queen West restaurant online.

Mascot Brewery

On the ground floor, Mascot will be serving a three course prix fixe dinner, which will flow right into the party upstairs at Odd Thomas. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased online.

A 1990s Toronto photo extravaganza

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From our contemporary vantage point, the Toronto of the 1990s looks like a weird place. An alternative title for this post could have been "I can't believe it's Toronto" such is the level of disorientation several of these images create.

Take the picture above, for example. It looks southeast during construction at Roundhouse Park on Bremner Blvd., but it could easily pass as New York, Las Vegas, or anywhere, really.

For many of us, the 90s feel like they were just yesterday, but as we push toward a thirty year span from the start of the decade, it's remarkable just how much the city has changed. 

Behold, the Toronto of the 1990s.

toronto 1990s

Looking over the future site of Metro Hall to King from Wellington.

toronto 1990s

The CBC Broadcast Centre, looking east towards downtown on Front.

toronto 1990s

Restaurant row on King West.

toronto 1990s

"Crazy for You" playing at the Royal Alexandra.

toronto 1990s

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre when it was new.

toronto 1990s

Speaker's Corner at Queen and John.

toronto 1990s

Mural on the side of Wayne Gretzky's sports bar.

toronto 1990s

The Hyatt Regency hotel on King West.

toronto 1990s

The Big Bop in psychedelic colours.

toronto 1990s

Now lost public art on Dundas at Yonge before the creation of Yonge-Dundas Square.

toronto 1990s

The view up Yonge from Dundas.

toronto 1990s

East on Dundas from what would become Yonge-Dundas Square before the arrival of Citytv.

toronto 1990s

Down Bay to City Hall and the Financial District.

toronto 1990s

The main gates to the Distillery at Mill and Trinity streets.

toronto 1990s

Looking east across the Distillery from Parliament.

toronto 1990s

New housing on the Esplanade.

toronto 1990s

Silos on the waterfront from Parliament.

toronto 1990s

Captain John's at the foot of Yonge St.

toronto 1990s

Southeast to the Port Lands over the Yonge and College area. That's the CBC's old Jarvis St. antenna on the extreme left.

toronto 1990s

Aerial view near Queen and Church.

toronto 1990s

An almost absurdly verdant view of Queen's Park.

toronto 1990s

Looking north up Bay towards the Sutton Place Hotel and Manulife Centre.

toronto 1990s

Dreamlike University and College.

toronto 1990s

The University of Toronto campus at College.

toronto 1990s

The roof of Scotia Plaza from the top of Commerce Court.

toronto 1990s

Yonge and Hillsdale (now condos).

toronto 1990s

Yonge and Marlborough, looking southwest.

toronto 1990s

Canadian Tire at Yonge and Davenport, pre-condos.

The top 10 events in Toronto this January

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Events in Toronto this January will help start the new year of a high note, with seasonal favourites like Winterlicious and Come Up To My Room returning in addition to brand new events like the Blue Jays Winter Fest.

In addition to everything listed here, there are incredible free events you won't want to miss and some amazing concerts on the way as well.

Events you might want to check out:

Next Stage Festival (January 3-14 @ Factory Theatre)
The future of theatre takes the stage at this premiere winter event. New works by established Fringe artists premiere at this observance of stage culture.
Chris Hadfield's Generator (January 11 @ Roy Thomson Hall)
Canadian astronaut and musician Chris Hadfield assembles a team of brilliant thinkers and even better speakers to blow your mind at this evening of future focused entertainment.
Beats and Bents (January 12 @ The Bentway)
Next week Toronto's newest skating path opens under the Gardiner Expressway. The following Friday, a new alternative skating party kicks off, presenting two new DJs on deck each week until March.
Canada's Top Ten Film Festival (January 12-21 @ TIFF Bell Lightbox)
Nobody can resist a good top ten list (see what we did there?), so why not check out the best Canadian cinema of 2017? TIFF is screening critically acclaimed features all week.
Come Up To My Room (January 18-21 @ Gladstone Hotel)
The Gladstone's annual four day alternative design festival is a vehicle for exploring experimental and difficult art concepts, featuring the works of over 30 innovative artists.
IDS (January 18-21 @ Metro Toronto Convention Centre)
For lovers of interior design this weekend long show is a paradise. Discover leading brands and homegrown talent, showcasing pieces much more interesting than you'll find at IKEA.
Soundtrack of the City (January 18-22 @ Multiple Venues)
Underground Toronto musicians are the stars of the show at this five day, multi venue indie music fest. You're sure to find your next favourite artist at one of these shows along Queen and Kensington.
Toronto Light Festival 2018 (January 19 - March 4 @ Distillery District)
The Distillery District is going to be hot spot again this winter as the Light Festival returns for a second year. Expect dazzling light-based art and lots of crowds.
Toronto Blue Jays Winter Fest (January 20 @ Rogers Centre)
All new for 2018, the Blue Jays host the first ever Winter Fest, a one day event giving fans unprecedented access to their home team through player appearances, field access, and more.
Winterlicious (January 26 - February 18 @ Multiple Venues)
For Toronto food fans, January means one thing: Winterlicious is on its way. More than 200 restaurants will offer special menus, and places like St Lawrence Market will host luxury food events.

The fascinating history of Toronto's oldest bar

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There's an undeniable allure to elbow-bending at an old bar. You can imagine all those who've occupied the room before you doing pretty much the exact same thing, which turns the humble watering hole into a bridge that links the past and present together like a time machine.

The general consensus is that Toronto's oldest bar is the Wheat Sheaf Tavern, located at the southwest corner of King and Bathurst streets. Aside from an eight month blip in 1995, the bar's been operational since Bernard Short opened it in 1849.

The Black Bull on Queen West might have been founded earlier (1833 or 1838, depending on who you ask), but it went by the name Clifton House for decades before it reverted to its original moniker in the late 1970s, which some argue disqualifies it from the title.

wheat sheaf tavern

Wheat Sheaf Tavern in the 1970s. Photo via Chuckman's Nostalgia.

That, in fact, is one of the things that's most remarkable about the Wheat Sheaf. Despite a host of different proprietors in the 19th and early 20th centuries, it somehow retained its name and general identity.

There have been changes along the way, though. The striking mansard roof that's arguably the building's calling card wasn't installed until a few decades after the tavern opened. The addition of the third storey occurred in 1905, following the popularity of the Second Empire architectural style.

wheat sheaf tavern

The Wheat Sheaf's ugly grey facade in 1981. Photo via the Toronto Archives.

For much of the 20th century, the building's original brick was painted over in an ugly off-white paint, representative of the general lack of care directed towards heritage buildings at the time. It actually took the closure of the business for the building to be restored.

A Globe and Mail article from 2001 tells the story of how Terry Tsianos spotted a for sale sign in the window of the shuttered tavern on the way home from a softball game and quickly moved with his partners in the Pegasus Group to purchase and restore the legendary tavern.

wheat seaf tavern

Wheat Sheaf Tavern in 1983. Photo by Patrick Cummins.

Architecturally speaking, it's actually easier to appreciate the history of the bar today than it was in the 1960s and '70s. The paint's finally been stripped and the old chimney stands out as an obvious feature on the east-facing side of the building.

As historian Doug Taylor has noted, this would have been the primary source of heat for the tavern in the early days. Eventually as the building expanded, so too did its heat sources, but it's fun to imagine soldiers from Fort York warming themselves with a drink by the fire some 150 years ago.

wheat sheaf tavern

Wheat Sheaf Tavern, 2011. Photo by Grant D.

Speaking of Fort York, the most persistent urban legend that surrounds the Wheat Sheaf involves a tunnel that apparently ran between the tavern and the military barracks.

Sadly, this is almost surely a bit of hopeful fiction, given that the distance between the bar and the Fort is about 500 metres.

The engineering prowess to construct such a thing without detection is quite frankly unthinkable, particularly when you consider that soldiers were given a daily beer ration.

Tunnel or no tunnel, the Wheat Sheaf is one of the city's most historically imbued places. If the walls could talk, the tale would be as epic a narrative as Toronto has to tell.


The top 8 free events in Toronto this week

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Free events in Toronto this week guarantee that you'll start off the new year strong, without breaking the bank. You can skate under the Gardiner with Mayor John Tory beside you, eat a free meal in Kensington, and dance like it's still New Year's Eve. 

Events you might want to check out:

The Festival of New Formats (January 2 @ Comedy Bar)
The Festival of New Format gifts Toronto with free stand up and improv shows at the start of each year. Up first is Love is Everywhere, a stand up showcase all about positivity and gratitude.
Music From People City (January 3-6 @ Gladstone Hotel)
This month, the Long Winter music and arts festival includes a multi-room visual experience inside the Gladstone. The art pop-up spotlights decades of Toronto's alt-music history, subcultures, and scenes.
Where Does This Disco (January 5 @ Farside)
A free night of mutant and Italo disco, indie electronic, and psych-pop goes down Friday at Farside for those who didn't get their dancing fix completely filled on New Year's Eve.
Global Boogie Banquet (January 5 @ Handlebar)
Kensington Market's Handlebar transforms into a global banquet celebrating the different cultures of the world. It's entirely free and features DJ Oreku spinning international grooves all night.
Really Really Free Market (January 6 @ Campbell Park)
On the first Saturday of each month in 2018, you can head to Campbell Park for a no money, no swapping, free market. Attendees bring one large shopping bag and can fill it up to their heart's content!
The Bentway Mayor's Skate Party (January 7 @ The Bentway)
The new skate trail under the Gardiner opens on Saturday, then the following day Mayor John Tory wants you to come skate with him. There will be complimentary skate rentals and hot chocolate courtesy of Mr Mayor!
No Pants Subway RIde (January 7 @ Multiple Venues)
The 17th annual No Pants Subway Ride encourages you to, no surprise here, ride the subway with no pants on. Please don't do this on any other day!
Community Skate through Maple Leaf Gardens (January 1 @ Mattamy Athletic Centre)
What better way to start the new year than by skating around historic Maple Leaf Gardens? Ryerson University's Mattamy Athetlic Centre opens its rink to the public on the 1st.

The 10 biggest New Year's Eve parties in Toronto this year

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New Year's Eve parties in Toronto come in all shapes and sizes but for those looking for the biggest crowds or the most entertainment for the buck it's tough to beat the parties on this list.

Events you might want to check out:

New Year's Eve at Nathan Phillips Square (December 31 @ Nathan Phillips Square)
Ring in the New Year at Nathan Phillips Square with DJs, live electronic music, site animations, a DJ skating party and a stunning fireworks display at midnight. It's totally free.
Majestic New Years Eve (December 31 @ Fairmont Royal York)
Taking place inside the Fairmont Royal York, this is a gala style event for those who want to get fancy, with soaring ceilings, a full balcony, and crystal chandeliers.
Countdown 2018 (December 31 @ Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex)
This huge bask at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex will include multiple dance floors, bars and a huge number of DJs and performances.
NYE at REBEL (December 31 @ REBEL)
Rebel claims theirs will be the biggest New Year's Eve party in Toronto. Guess there's only one way to find out!
Dwayne Gretzky Infinity Ball (December 31 @ Enercare Centre)
The Toronto super group secured the largest dance floor they could and bought tons of mirrors to create an Infinity Ball style art installation. Food, photo ops, and live music await.
ROM New Year's Eve (December 31 @ ROM)
Inspired by the brilliant new Christian Dior exhibition, the ROM will host a glamourous with tons of live entertainment.
Pitbull New Year's Eve (December 31 @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre)
Go Go Dancing porn stars, extravagant decor and more are promised at this party that will feature DJ Mark Falco, Deko-Ze, DJ Aural and drag superstar Tynomi Banks.
Last Night On Earth NYE (December 31 @ The Danforth Music Hall)
An icon on dance floors across the world, main attraction Sasha will be joined by Henry Saiz and dubspeeka.
NYE 2018 at UNIUN (December 31 @ UNIUN Nightclub)
UNIUN Nightclub boasts that it'll be the biggest New Year's Eve party on King Street with this special edition of We Are Uniun featuring Chris LaRoque on music duty.
New Year's Eve at Ripley's Aquarium (December 31 @ Ripley's Aquarium of Canada)
Ring in the New Year as you experience the Aquarium in a whole new way at their first ever New Year's party, featuring DJ Shamz on deck and bars scattered throughout the galleries.

The top 10 Toronto social media hits and blunders in 2017

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It was another wild year on Toronto's social media channels. From the absolute hilarious to the downright awful, platforms like Instragram, Facebook, and Twitter were filled with questionable ads, accusations, and head scratching moments.

Here's a roundup of the most notable social media hits and blunders in Toronto from the past year.

Grinder campaigns for Idris Elba to visit

While Idris Elba was in town for TIFF, local coffee shop Grinder spent their days campaigning for the dreamy actor to visit their shop. While their #IdrisNeedsGrinder hashtag may not have gotten his attention, it sure got the attention of the rest of Toronto.

Susur Lee

Susur Lee restaurants get exposed 

Susur Lee was under fire earlier this year after @ChefGrantSoto shared messages on Instagram he received from Lee's employees stating they lost wages over minor mistakes dubbed “IOUs.” Since being exposed, many employees were reimbursed and the policy was terminated.

Kaboom Chicken takes heat for complaining

Kaboom Chicken's Instagram comments blew up over the suggestion that Ontario premiere Kathleen Wynne was to blame for its higher fried chicken prices. While some rushed to support the restaurant, many were not impressed.

Jaden Smith accuses Four Seasons of trying to kill him

Will Smith's son Jaden took to Twitter when he was in town to express his frustrations with the Four Seasons after a pancake mishap. The actor, who's apparently vegan, said his pancakes were spiked with cheese.

Toronto breakup gets live Tweeted

When Ashe Dryden, a White House Fellow, programmer, and diversity advocate, was enjoying lunch in Toronto she overhead a couple breaking up. Instead of minding her own business she decided to take to Twitter to tweet out the whole saga resulting in pure gold. 

new tribe tattoo

New Tribe Tattoo faces backlash for Hurricane Irma joke

New Tribe Tattoo faced backlash after posting an Instagram photo of a hurricane as promotional material. The image, referencing Hurricane Irma, read, "Tattoo and piercing walk-ins 12-9pm today. The forecast calls for heavy tats and sharp piercings. Roll on thru." 

Everyone is complaining about 416 Snack Bar’s salad

After Toronto journalist Rhiannon Russell Tweeted a photo of 416 Snack Bar's Caesar salad, social media went into a tizzy about the apparent audacity of the restaurant to serve such a thing without a knife and fork.

Toronto man eats Jason’s Segals face

Earlier this year, Noah Maloney vowed to eat a photo of Jason Segel's face every day until Segel ate a picture of his face in turn. The whole ordeal was displayed all over social media and it even got international attention

Corner comedy club posts offensive ads

The Corner found itself in hot water after a series of rather insensitive Instagram posts surfaced. The ads were meant to poke fun at the club's small size, but many felt that they crossed a line by invoking Holocaust imagery. The posts were never removed, but they did issue an apology.

Toronto bike cops take to Twitter to brag

During a week-long traffic blitz a number of Toronto bike cops took to Twitter to brag about their ticket conquests. The cops were ticketing and towing anyone they found illegally blocking traffic downtown, and they wanted all of the Internet to know about it with quirky memes and GIFs.

The top 18 New Year's Eve parties in Toronto by neighbourhood

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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.

Events you might want to check out:

A Big Sound NYE (December 31 @ Mod Club)
Toronto's biggest motown orchestra is back for their 4th annual NYE party. 30 musicians, lots of Marvin, Stevie, Aretha and more. It all goes down at the Mod Club in Little Italy.
Chronologic New Year's (December 31 @ The Garrison)
Music from 1890 to 2018 plays in chronological order, leading up the grand finale at midnight. It's all the best dance tracks from every era going down on Dundas West.
Forever 54 (December 31 @ Wayla Bar)
An all disco extravaganza takes place at the Wayla Bar in Leslieville, taking attendees on a trip through that era of music during the final hours of 2017.
NYE at Rebel (December 31 @ REBEL)
Rebel claims they've got the biggest New Year's Eve party in Toronto. Guess the only way to find out is to head down to the Port Lands and see what's going on.
Bangs & Blush (December 31 @ Clinton's Tavern)
A full bar takeover with 90s jams in the front and contemporary bangers in the back goes down over at Clinton's Tavern. Glitter up, bring your dancing shoes, and head to Koreatown!
New Year's Eve at Nathan Phillips Square (December 31 @ Nathan Phillips Square)
Ring in the New Year in the Financial District at Nathan Phillips Square with DJs, live electronic music, site animations, a DJ skating party and a stunning fireworks display at midnight.
Hasselhoff NYE (December 31 @ Otto's Bierhalle)
On West Queen West, you'll find free burgers instead of champagne at midnight if you hit up the Hasselhoff party at Otto's.
P&L NYE 2018 (December 31 @ The Shop under Parts & Labour)
Ring in the New Year in Parkdale at Parts & Labour's hip hop, R&B, and dancehall fueled party.
Tranzac New Year's Eve (December 31 @ Tranzac Club)
Over in the Annex, the Tranzac has three rooms worth of entertainment for their New Year's Eve party, featuring the likes of DJ Max Mohenu, Houndstooth, Lauren Barnett, and more.
Box Of Kittens Presents PoP (December 31 - January 1 @ 1300 Gerrard St E)
Celebrate closing the book on 2017 with two floors of house, techno, bass and dub at Box Of Kittens' party in Little India.
New Years Eve at Liar Liar (December 31 @ Liar Liar)
Head to the King West area to celebrate the end of 2017 among friends at this Liar Liar's mega bash.
Warehouse New Year's Eve (December 31 @ 178 Queen's Quay E)
An authentic downtown warehouse space with thumping sound, immersive decor and talented DJs is waiting for you down at the Harbourfront.
Straight Cash Homie (December 31 @ Handlebar)
This is a hip hop-themed party with selections by V△NESS△ and Chayne. Expect big tunes from SZA, Post Malone, Brockhampton, Migos and more, all night long at the biggest party in Kensington Market.
Last Night On Earth NYE (December 31 @ The Danforth Music Hall)
The Danforth Music Hall hosts Sash, an icon on dance floors across the world. The DJ, whose career spans two decades, takes command of the Danforth for a night of progressive and electronic music.
Catl's NYE Party at the Dakota Tavern (December 31 @ The Dakota Tavern)
The Toronto rock duo hosts an annual New Year's bash at the Dakota Tavern on Ossington, where they'll be playing two sets and have DJ Swankenstein on deck in between.
Baob New Year's Fiesta (December 31 @ Yauca's Lounge)
Be a part of this hot party in Bloordale full of dancing, drumming, and drinking. Toronto based Latin percussive trio Baob will be the life of the party.
New Year's at The Broadview Hotel (December 31 @ The Broadview Hotel)
You'll find a great mix of history, romance, and festive energy inside the halls of the Broadview Hotel in Riverside.
Nightflight to 2018 (December 31 @ Fly 2.0)
Fly into the Village near Church & Wellesley for a party featuring shows by Sofonda Cox and Scarlett Bobo.

Toronto New Year's Eve Party Guide 2018

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Toronto New Year's Eve parties for 2018 come in all types of forms, from intimate get togethers to galas, from comedy shows to concerts, and plenty more. With so many offerings this year, any way you choose to ring in 2018 is sure to be an unforgettable occasion.

Events you might want to check out:

Stranger Things Snow Ball 18' (December 31 @ No One Writes to the Colonel)
We managed to escape the shadow monster that was 2017, now celebrate making it out alive. Semi-formal dress required and Steve Harrington style hair heavily encouraged!
Chronologic: New Year's Eve (December 31 @ The Garrison)
Music from 1890 to 2018 plays in chronological order, leading up the grand finale at midnight. It's all the best dance tracks from every era.
New Year's Eve at Nathan Phillips Square (December 31 @ Nathan Phillips Square)
Ring in the New Year at Nathan Phillips Square with DJs, live electronic music, site animations, a DJ skating party and a stunning fireworks display at midnight. It's totally free.
Dwayne Gretzky Infinity Ball (December 31 @ Enercare Centre)
The Toronto super group secured the largest dance floor they could and bought tons of mirrors to create an Infinity Ball style art installation. Food, photo ops, and live music await.
Steam Whistle NYE House Party (December 31 @ Steam Whistle Brewing)
Steam Whistle is transforming their home, the Roundhouse, into the ultimate House Party with themed rooms, DJs, live karaoke and plenty of Pilsner.
Y2K NYE (December 31 @ The Baby G)
This party comes all the way from Chicago and brings award winning DJs, dancers, and massive video projection to the Baby G. This night is all about the best jams from the 2000s.
Everleigh Circa 1926 New Years Eve (December 31 @ Everleigh Toronto)
Celebrate the new year Great Gatsby style with style and sophistication. Like the DiCaprio movie, hip hop and current hits will provide the soundtrack. Sorry, Louis Armstrong.
Nightflight to 2018 (December 31 @ Fly 2.0)
Fly into 2018 with good company at this party featuring shows by Sofonda Cox and Scarlett Bobo.
Majestic New Year's Eve (December 31 @ Fairmont Royal York)
Taking place inside the Fairmont Royal York, this is a gala style event for those who want to get fancy, with soaring ceilings, a full balcony, and crystal chandeliers.
The Dude's New Year's: The Big Lebowski (December 31 @ Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema)
Join in on this wild cinema tradition where tons of movie fans will ring in the New Year dressed in sunglasses and bathrobes. Screening at 9:30, tickets are $22.
Dance Dance Resolution (December 31 @ The Rec Room)
Your first New Year's resolution? Dance the night away! DJ Mensa takes control of The Rec Room with music, booze, and even a Dance Dance Revolution showdown.
NYE at Ripley's Aquarium (December 31 @ Ripley's Aquarium of Canada)
Ring in the New Year as you experience the Aquarium in a whole new way at their first ever New Year's party, featuring DJ Shamz on deck and bars scattered throughout the galleries. Tickets are $90.00.
Back In The Day 90's NYE (December 31 @ Revival)
This tribute to old school hip hop, dance, house and pop features two floors with two unique sounds, confetti canons and balloon decor. Advance tickets are $30.00.
Mardi Gras New Years Eve (December 31 @ Latvian Canadian Cultural Centre)
This jam features live music by the Penzionari and encourages wild masks and cocktail attire. Tickets are $50.
ROM New Year's Eve (December 31 @ ROM)
Inspired by the brilliant new Christian Dior exhibition, the ROM will host a glamourous with tons of live entertainment. Early bird tickets are $90.
Box Of Kittens Presents PoP (December 31 - January 1 @ 1300 Gerrard St E)
Whether you’re looking to start 2018 with a bang or slam the door on the year that was, do it here with two floors of house, techno, bass, and dub. Tickets are $25 and up.
Studio 1214 NYE Disco Party (December 31 @ Gladstone Hotel)
Relive the glory days of glamour and disco, filled with champagne and non-stop dancing at this glamorous affair.Early bird tickets go for $45.
Rewind (December 31 @ Thoroughbred Food + Drink)
Thoroughbred is teaming up with powerhouses DJs General Eclectic and Gil Masuda, spinning nothing but disco, boogie, and funk to get you on your feet. Tickets start at $10.
Your Hood's A Joke (December 31 @ Panasonic Theatre)
This 70 minute show features comedians representing their country, city, or neighbourhood of origin and roasting each other's territories. Tickets are $30.
Fresh Start II (December 31 @ The Rivoli)
A party filled with members of Tokyo Police Club, Hey Rosetta, Born Ruffians, Elwins and more, with DJ sets by Graham Walsh. Tickets are $35.
New Years Eve at Nightowl (December 31 @ Nightowl)
Ring in 2018 in Little Italy with live cover music from the Lonely Hearts, plus complimentary champagne and noisemakers with $30.00 ticket.
Donnie Darko 80's NYE (December 31 @ Velvet Underground)
Dance to 80s music while bringing in the new year at velvet underground. Costumes are heavily encouraged. Early bird tickets are $15.00.
New Years Eve Rooftop Silent Disco (December 31 @ Hemingway's Restaurant)
Three DJs spin different genres straight into your headphones so you can pick what jams to dance to. You'll see what others are listening to based on the headset's LED light. Tickets are $22.
Black & White Masquerade Bash (December 31 @ The Pour House)
Dress to impress and hide your identity with a fancy mask before dining, drinking, and dancing the night away.
Nearly Naked NYE (December 31 @ Cherry Cola's)
Be entertained by live Burlesque Stars at Toronto’s cabaret and lounge Cherry Cola’s. Tickets are $25 in advance.
NYE Pajama Party (December 31 @ East of Brunswick)
Pajama Parties aren't just for kids, you know. Put 2017 to bed and ring in the new year in comfort, with raffles, door prizes, and DJ Regina spinning all night. This one's free!
Rorschach's New Years Masquerade Party (December 31 @ Rorschach Brewing)
If clubs aren't your thing, spend New Year's drinking delicious craft beer and chowing down on oysters while wearing a mask. Tickets start at $25.
NYE Salsa Party (December 31 @ Lula Lounge)
Have a tropical getaway right in Toronto, with salsa lessons at the beginning of the night at DJ Santiago Valasquez spinning Latin hits later on. Tickets start at $50.
Straight Cash Homie NYE (December 31 @ Handlebar)
Hip-hop NYE party with selections by V△NESS△ and Chayne. Expect big tunes from SZA, Post Malone, Brockhampton, Migos and more, all night long. Advance tickets are $10.
Drake Commissary House Party (December 31 @ Drake Commissary)
Everybody knows that house parties reign supreme on New Year's Eve, so the Drake Commissary is inviting you to their place. Tickets start at $75.00.
LaLa Land New Years Eve (December 31 @ The Pint Public House)
With dinner, dancing, instrumental jazz and hip hop, this party will make Toronto feel like a city of stars. Limited early bird tickets are $20.00.
House Party (December 31 @ Pogue Mahone)
DJ Ikanpro, party favours, and champagne at midnight will take you to the end of 2017 at this no cover, no hassle house party.
Guilty Pleasures (December 31 @ Sneaky Dee's)
Sneaky Dee's is playing all your guilty pleasures all night, from the 50's to today. Tickets start at $5.
New Beers Eve '18 (December 31 @ Mascot Brewery)
On the ground floor, Mascot will be serving a 3-course prix fixe dinner. On the second floor, a wild dance party in Odd Thomas awaits. Tickets start at $20
All Ages at Rockpile (December 31 @ The Rockpile)
Hip hop, house, EDM, dancehall, and top 40 jams are being played all night at this all ages party on Toronto's west end.Tickets start at $22.00.
Lost Boyz NYE: Neva Neva Land (December 31 @ Bangarang)
A magical hip hop haven full of lost boys and girls, twinkly lights, misty dancefloors, Big Daddy Hook, Lil Tink, Yung Rufio, and a midnight to end all midnights.
No Parents. No Bedtime. NO RULEZ NYE. (December 31 @ Track & Field Bar)
It's a good ol' fashioned high school house party and you're invited. Their liquor cabinet is guaranteed to be bigger than what your friends had back in the day, and there'll be way more cool kids hangin' out.
We are Uniun 2018 (December 31 @ UNIUN Nightclub)
UNIUN Nightclub boasts that it'll be the biggest New Year's Eve party on King Street with this special edition of We Are Uniun featuring Chris LaRoque on music duty. Tickets start at $40.00.
New Year's Rockin' Eve 80s Party (December 31 @ Ivy Social Club)
This 80’s party in the city will countdown to 2018 like it’s 1988, with DJ Starting from Scratch spinning gems from Madonna, Bowie, Duran Duran and more.
Barcode NYE (December 31 @ Orchid Nightclub)
Toronto's best DJs playing the best of hip hop, R&B, Soca and trap. Two floors with two sounds, right in the heart of downtown Toronto. Online tickets are $25.00.
Boner: Dripping in Gold (December 31 - January 1 @ Club 120)
For those who don't want 2017 to end, this party goes until 4am, with big room beats in the main hall and sexy jams in the VIP lounge. Tickets start at $40.00.
Lekker NYE (December 31 @ Parlour)
Lekker is a Dutch word roughly meaning yummy, cool, or sexy. This one is all bout celebrating all things lekker from this past year. Tickets start at $45.20.
New Year's Eve 2018 at CUBE (December 31 @ CUBE)
DJ Aristotle takes over CUBE for their NYE party. This one's located right at Queen and Spadina so it's super easy to get around via free transit before or after.Tickets are $30.
NYE at REBEL (December 31 @ REBEL)
Rebel claims theirs will be the biggest New Year's Eve party in Toronto. Guess there's only one way to find out! Tickets are $55.online.
Together With - Ambivalent (December 31 @ One Loft)
One Loft presents the New Year's Eve 2018 Edition of TOGETHER WITH_! Homegrown techno talent will ease you through the final hours of 2017. Tickets are $30. at the door.
The Clock Strikes 2018 (December 31 @ Lost And Found)
Celebrate New Years inside Lost and Found, King Street's late night basement club. Email in for ticket prices.
SAME New Year's Eve (December 31 @ Same Nightclub)
Head over to King Street's notorious venue for hip hop, top 40, house and club anthems by John J. Early bird tickets cost $20.
Dance Cave New Year's Eve (December 31 @ The Dance Cave)
Catch some of Wintersleep's NYE set below at Lee's Palace before heading upstairs for an alt rock and pop dance party in the Cave. Tickets are $15.00.
New Years Eve 2018 at Liar Liar (December 31 @ Liar Liar)
Come and see why they were voted best Nightclub at the 2017 Notable Awards at their official 2017 send-off party. Tickets start at $40.
Luminous NYE 2018 (December 31 @ EFS)
Raise a glass to a bigger and even better year ahead inside the King Street venue. Music by CRUNCH. Advance tickets are $30.
A Big Sound NYE'S (December 31 @ Mod Club)
Toronto's biggest and best motown orchestra is back for their 4th annual NYE party. 30 musicians, lots of Marvin, Stevie, Aretha and more. Tickets are $40 at the door.
The Sadies New Years Eve (December 31 @ Horseshoe Tavern)
The final show of the Horseshoe Tavern's 70th Concert Series sees The Sadies take over the historic venue. Tickets are $25.
Indie New Year's Eve at Tranzac (December 31 @ Tranzac)
3 Rooms of Entertainment, including Toronto's best Indie bands, DJs and dancing. Tickets are $18.60 online.
Wintersleep (December 31 @ Lee's Palace)
The Novia Scotia indie rock band spends New Year's in Toronto at Lee's Palace, with support by Dusted. Tickets are $29.50.
Stiletto Flats (December 31 @ The Duke)
The Flats are charging up for an electric New Year celebration at The Duke Live. Party favours, champagne, door prizes, and the band's show, all for $10 cover.
Musical Tribute to David Bowie (December 31 @ The Cadillac Lounge)
Multi award winning vocalist Michael Bell takes on the sounds and style of David Bowie for a night of cosmic pop. Tickets are $30 at the door.
Chris Whitelely & Diana Braithwaite (December 31 @ Hugh's Room Live)
Award winning blues artists Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley host a gala at Hugh's Room Live, complete with jazz, blues, and classic standards. Call the venue for ticket price.
Pkew Pkew Pkew (December 31 @ Bovine Sex Club)
Come celebrate the death of 2017 and the birth of 2018 with Toronto's favourite shredders. It'll be a party set with originals and fave covers, featuring Sweet and Lowdown, the Filthy Radicals and more.
Brownman Ali (December 31 @ Remix Lounge Toronto)
One of Canada's most acclaimed international jazz artists Brownman Ali performs in a quartet setting, delivering hard-swinging tunes to cap off your year. Early bird tickets are $45.
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