We’re proud to champion women artists and women-focused events on the regular in our weekly Best Bets roundups. But with International Women’s Day approaching, there are so many more festivities across the city we wanted to share with you, so you can mark the day with something that invigorates, inspires, or challenges you.
These events spotlight talented women artists, amplify women-owned businesses, and celebrate the power of sisterhood. Bring your mom, sister or bestie along, and celebrate IWD with women across the city at these 15 Toronto events.
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Women at Play(s)
Highlighting women in theatre, this series features original one-act plays created by Canadian women playwrights, directors, and actors. The sixth edition of Women at Play(s) includes 6 works that are 10-20 minutes in length, exploring topics like ageism, domestic violence, femicide, sisterhood, and women empowerment. Don’t miss a night led by Canadian women in theatre! More info.
When: March 1-3, 7-10
Where: Red Sandcastle Theatre
Analogue Revolution: How Feminist Media Changed the World
This eye-opening documentary traces the rise, fall and resurgence of feminist media and activism in Canada from the ‘70s to ‘90s. The stirring film features media trailblazers such as Susan G. Cole (Broadside Feminist Review), Grace Channer (Our Lives Black Women’s Newspaper), and Dykes on Mykes, the longest-running lesbian radio show in the world! After the screening on March 2, stay for an illuminating discussion on feminist media and activism in Canada, featuring some of the film’s interviewees and director Marusya Bociurkiw. More info.
When: March 2-3
Where: Hot Docs Theatre
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TOnow International Women’s Day Soiree
This action-packed soiree will celebrate women’s achievements in Toronto. This event will feature performances by JUNO award-winning women artists and wines from women-owned vineyards. Attendees can indulge in the finest flavours while supporting women in their local communities! This will be an evening filled with empowerment, art, music, and celebration— don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to network with other creatives around the city. More info.
When: March 6
Where: The Concert Hall
Our Music Festival
A powerhouse, award-winning lineup of women and gender-diverse artists will come together for Toronto’s inaugural Our Music Festival. With performances from Skye Wallace, Tania Joy, Melissa McClelland, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Tanika Charles and more, this is a vibrant celebration of powerful voices across musical genres. More info.
When: March 7
Where: Hugh’s Room Live
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NextUp Toronto: International Women’s Day Celebration
Award-winning, Toronto-based broadcast journalist Jax Irwin will host this keynote event about women’s advancement in the workplace, tackling all things power and promotion from the ground up. Jax has made it her mission to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusion in the media industry, so expect hard-hitting discussions about advancing in traditionally male-dominated spaces. More info.
When: March 7
Where: Cineplex Queensway & VIP
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Toronto Queer Market: International Women’s Day
This special edition of the Toronto Queer Market will bring together more than 30 local women and trans-owned businesses! Shop for yourself or a special someone all while supporting queer vendors and community members. Plus eat, drink and catch a drag show at no cost! More info.
When: March 8
Where: The 519
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Woman Up! Improv Show
A stacked lineup of hilarious women will perform at this improv comedy night organized by The Firecracker Department. The show will star Tricia Black (Pretty Hard Cases), Natasha Bromfield (Downsizing), Aurora Browne (Baroness VonSketch), Kayla Lorette (Black Mirror) and Naomi Snieckus (Second City). Have a laugh about all of the funny, painful, scary, icky and powerful moments women experience. More info.
When: March 8
Where: Sweet Action Theatre
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In-Studio Empowered Portrait Paint Pouring
Women’s art has long been erased and overlooked. Why not rewrite history by joining others to create abstract women-inspired artwork? This fun and creative evening will leave you filled with artistic inspiration. With the help of squeegees and vibrant acrylic paints, create abstract portraits and inspire others. This workshop is for artists of all levels and no experience is necessary! More info.
When: March 8
Where: Fresh Paint Studio + Cafe Toronto
EmpowerHER: Celebrating International Women’s Day 2024
Join an empowering group to highlight the achievements and strength of some incredible women across sectors! This includes Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee, clinical psychologist and the visionary behind the Silm Centre for Mental Health. Charmaine A. Williams, the Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, will also be making an appearance, and Anu Raina will be sharing her experiences as a notable figure in Toronto’s art and fashion scene. More info.
When: March 8
Where: Spaces
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Women from Space Festival
This playful and profound festival will showcase some of the coolest women in music right now! The three-day event celebrates women and gender-diverse artists from Canada and beyond, and this year’s lineup is full of not-to-miss performances from the likes of Mali Obomsawin, Matana Roberts, Lina Allemano, Morgan-Paige, Val Jeanty and many more. More info.
When: March 8-10
Where: 918 Bathurst
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When Sisters Speak
When Sisters Speak is the largest and longest-running spoken word showcase featuring Black women in North America. Toronto artists Shelly Grace, Hannah Flores, and Shahaddah Jack will take the stage to perform powerful spoken word pieces, as well as international acts Queen Sheba, The Floacist, and Ayanna Albertson-Gay. These artists will spill their heartfelt stories with humour and vulnerability as they share their lived experiences as Black women. More info.
When: March 9
Where: St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
Cherish the Ladies
Irish-American supergroup Cherish the Ladies will bring their signature blend of virtuosic instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, and stunning step dancing to The Rose Brampton on March 9! Plus, stop by before the show for a free International Women’s Day event. Experience an intimate fireside chat with prominent women leaders, shop from local women-owned businesses, and connect with women’s empowerment and advocacy groups. More info.
When: March 9
Where: The Rose Brampton
Women’s Wellness Pop-Up Shopping Experience
If you’re looking to pamper yourself for International Women’s Day, check out this luxurious wellness pop-up. Discover and shop from female-founded brands, create a free floral arrangement, and leave with samples and swag bags! Featured brands include Lesley Hampton, Graydon Skincare, Understory Botanicals, Hey Babe, and many more. More info.
When: March 10
Where: Bisha Hotel
Photo by Dahlia Katz
Three Sisters
This powerful re-imagination of Anton Chekhov’s classic play sheds light on an important part of African history, exploring the devastation of colonialism and the fight for emancipation. Set in Nigeria, three sisters grapple with the loss of their father and a looming war that will change their lives. On March 8th, join artistic directors Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu and Weyni Mengesha for a pre-show chat in celebration of International Women’s Day. More info.
When: On now until March 24
Where: Soulpepper Theatre
TIFF’s Celebration of Women Filmmakers
As part of their commitment to celebrate women in Cinema, TIFF will spotlight a diverse line-up of women-identifying filmmakers for their month-long celebration. There will be Cinematheque screenings, Q&As, special events, new releases and even more surprises. Keep an eye out for special guests Patricia Rozema, Liv McNeil, and Meredith Hama-Brown at TIFF Lightbox. Several women-led movies will be screened this March, including Old Enough, Into the Forest, and Mouthpiece. With an even larger selection on their programming site, attendees are guaranteed a film that resonates. More info.
When: March 1 – 31
Where: TIFF Lightbox
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