Looking for an opportunity to explore Toronto’s artistic scene and vibrant nightlife? This week’s Toronto Best Bets features a variety of activities and events to attend, including theatre productions, art festivals, and a menopause party. Find out what the city has to offer in the guide below.
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Comfort Food
In Comfort Food, everything that Bette defines herself as comes crashing down. Reaching an age where she is no longer considered a young mom, she’s about to lose her spot as the host of a TV cooking show. With her job on the line and her son drawn to the deep web, the protagonist must figure out what the next chapter of her life holds. Crow’s Theatre presents a satirical look at ageism and motherhood through this production by Zorana Sadiq. More info.
When: May 13-June 8
Where: Crow’s Theatre
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Paprika Theatre Festival
24 years in and the Paprika Theatre Festival continues to support young creatives with mentorship opportunities and hands-on labs to help them hone their craft. This week, they get to showcase their works at an interactive event following the theme “Making Change, Making Space”. Enjoy live theatre, dance, and music performances free of charge, and participate in arts-related workshops and gatherings. More info.
When: May 13-17
Where: Native Earth Performing Arts & Aki Studio
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The Good Swap: Clothing and Plants Cutting Swap
Don’t know what to do with the clothes at the back of your closet? The Good Swap is a monthly meet-up where people can take the clothes that they don’t wear anymore and swap them for something “new”. This month, learn how to turn them into gorgeous, macrame plant hangers. The Toronto event also welcomes seed and houseplant exchanges, giving attendees the chance to beautify their home garden with fresh flowers and plants. More info.
When: May 14
Where: Centre for Social Innovation – Annex
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PACE 2025
PACE is going bigger, louder, and bolder than ever before with this year’s Ontario youth showcase. The event spotlights secondary students across the province, as they present their creative visions through an art & design market, live performances, a fashion runway, and more. Meet the next generation of entrepreneurs, designers, and performers at this vibrant celebration that offers free admission. More info.
When: May 15
Where: STACKT Market
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Toronto’s Hottest Menopause Party
Hot flashes and night sweats shouldn’t be taboo in 2025, and Toronto’s Hottest Menopause Party proves that women don’t have to be afraid to embrace the next chapter of their lives. Dress to impress and head to the Super Wonder Gallery for a night of fun and laughter alongside other women who are also getting a grip on menopause. There will be a screening of Tamsen Fadal’s ground-breaking film The M Factor, followed by a live Q & A. Make sure to stick around for the DJ after party and participate in giveaways. More info.
When: May 15
Where: Super Wonder Gallery
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BACKYARD: Asian Night Market
Join the BACKYARD series kickoff this Saturday in Toronto for a lively celebration of Asian Heritage Month. More than 50 Asian-owned vendors will sell their products to the sound of an upbeat DJ set and cultural performances. Savour food and drinks while supporting local businesses and taking in Asian talent, at this event that is free of charge. More info.
When: May 17
Where: STACKT Market
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Brews and Bards: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Sip a beer and enjoy the Bard, with this enchanting adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. BarTeam Theatre presents a twist on the comedic play in this immersive experience, held at the Burdock Brewery. Although a Toronto bar isn’t the conventional setting for Shakespeare enthusiasts, the purpose of this event is to show that even those who don’t consider themselves “theatre-goers” can convert to life-long fans. More info.
When: May 18
Where: Burdock Brewery