Don’t have any plans for this week? Our Toronto Best Bets guide has got you covered on all things happening in the city, including some free events. Find out more about the arts and film festivals that will kick off in the coming days, fashion shows bringing style to the streets of Toronto, and local exhibits that will leave you inspired.
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WeeFestival
Toronto’s only arts festival dedicated to young audiences is back with more entertainment for the entire family. This year’s programming will be on for three weekends in a row at venues throughout the city, providing an immersive experience designed to stimulate children’s imagination. Infants and toddlers can join in on the fun by attending puppet shows, dance performances, and homegrown theatre pieces made by Canadian artists. More info.
When: May 20-June 8
Where: Tarragon Theatre and other locations
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Black Ballerina
Syreeta Hector’s performance turns topics like race and identity on its head. Using classical ballet as a vessel to explore the unconscious ways we all try to fit in, the prolific dancer wants to inspire audience members to embrace who they are. Black Ballerina is part of Native Earth’s Niimi’iwe Dance Series, which presents Indigenous identity stories through self-expression. More info.
When: May 23-25
Where: Aki Studio
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Genrefuck
Watch two audacious artists take the stage in this double-bill that sparks conversations about gender and genre. Augusto Bitter’s Reina celebrates personal femininity through the lens of an anonymous woman featured in the package of a Harina P.A.N. corn flour, while Julie Phan’s Never Walk Alone focuses on family dynamics and independence through the perspective of a pole dancer. More info.
When: May 21-31
Where: Buddies in Bad Times Theatre
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Wangderful
Drag photography has evolved through the years, from documenting the existence of gender non-conforming individuals to highlighting their authenticity. In this exhibit based on Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 finalist Minhi Wang’s runway package, you’ll see pictures that embrace the artform of drag. Wangderful is a free event featuring the works of four prolific photographers, with limited prints and images available to purchase onsite. More info.
When: May 22
Where: Dimensions Custom Framing & Gallery
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Sun/Shade Opening Night
Kick off the summer in great style by heading to the Sun/Shade art exhibit on its opening night. Dance to groovy DJ sets and grab a bite from local food trucks in a vibrant evening hosted by Canada’s Drag Race’s Jada Shada Hudson. In partnership with Fashion Art Toronto, Sun/Shade will also present a runway show featuring looks by Toronto designers you won’t want to miss. More info.
When: May 23
Where: The Bentway
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Inside Out Film Festival
Toronto’s annual film festival dedicated to queer storytelling is celebrating its 35th anniversary with projects that bridge past and future. Opening with the Canadian debut of Elena Oxman’s acclaimed feature Outerlands, the event will carry on with titles that display the importance of 2SLGBTQ+ representation in Canadian cinema and beyond. Festival goers will also get the chance to watch the Hacks season finale in a special screening provided by Crave. More info.
When: May 23-June 1
Where: TIFF Lightbox and online
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Home Game: Toronto Loves Basketball
As the Raptors enjoy their off-season, basketball fans can still keep their heads in the game checking out this exhibition. Long before Toronto’s official NBA team came to be, the sport already had an important role in the city’s community. Find out more about how basketball made its mark in Toronto history with the on and off-site installations, as well as through the interactive Home Game App. More info.
When: Opens May 21
Where: Harbourfront Centre
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Worlds Collide
Imagine if your favourite characters were all part of the same universe. Worlds Collide, hosted by Maddox Campbell, features eight Toronto comedians playing iconic figures from history books and pop culture. As part of the audience, you get to pick your own adventure by choosing which characters get to engage in humorous, improv skits. More info.
When: May 24
Where: John Candy Box Theatre
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1664 Fashion Week Opening Night
Before 1664 Fashion Week begins, indulge in high-fashion, open-air runway shows at the Distillery District. Take a trip down style lane by seeing how Fashion Art Toronto has shaped the city’s catwalk over the years. Enjoy live music and DJ sets throughout the day and shop pieces by local designers at pop-up boutiques offering exclusive discounts. More info.
When: May 24
Where: Distillery District
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Sober Salon
The road to sobriety isn’t easy, but having the right support system makes it possible. For those looking to enjoy a night out in an alcohol-free environment, make sure to attend the first-ever Sober Salon. This intimate gathering will offer live performance, art, music, mocktails and an uplifting conversation with journalist Cathrin Bradbury about her new memoir This Way Up. More info.
When: May 25
Where: International Palace of Joy
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Doors Open Toronto
Explore Toronto’s architecture and historical sites for free this coming weekend. Over 150 buildings, ranging from sports to music venues, will open their doors for visitors to see firsthand how these remarkable spaces make up the city. Participate in guided tours, hear exclusive talks, and revel in outdoor activities in this two-day event. More info.
When: May 24-25
Where: Various locations
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