This week marks the return of Canada’s biggest art fair, with Art Toronto highlighting the creativity and talent of local and international artists. From large-scale installations to discussions led by arts experts and curators, there is a lot to look forward to. But for those seeking other activities for the coming days, our Best Bets also include thought-provoking film festivals and a vibrant comedy celebration.
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Halloween Events
Still making plans on how to spend Halloween this year? We’ve curated a list with more than 15 events in Toronto to check out, including a Halloween bash at Sankofa Square, a Lady Gaga dance party, a themed-bar filled with Tim Burton references, a theatrical experience at Casa Loma, and a light show at Pumpkinville. More info.
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Planet in Focus International Film Festival
Returning for its 25th edition, Planet in Focus presents a lineup of films that explore environmentalism and social justice. It opens tonight with a screening of Nechako — It Will Be a Big Bright River Again, followed by a Q&A with director Lyana Patrick and a reception at the Paradise Theatre. Throughout the week, attendees will get to engage with thoughtful films by participating in panel discussions and sharing insight on how nature plays a key role in our daily lives. More info.
When: October 21-26
Where: Paradise Theatre
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Generation Women Canada
This literary salon brings women together with the goal of passing down wisdom and reflecting on lessons learned at different life stages. Offering a diverse lineup of storytellers, each sharing their lived experiences dealing with the unexpected. The theme for this edition of Generation Women Canada is Plot Twist: When Life Flips the Script, with each woman opening up about how they’ve stepped out of their comfort zone, adapted to change, and grew in the process. More info.
When: October 23
Where: The Lounge at Live Nation Canada
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Comedy is Art
Offering three nights of comedy and highlighting over 20 talented comedians from Toronto and beyond, the Comedy is Art festival is the place to be if you are hoping for a good laugh. Enjoy shows with witty social commentary like Afronaut and Not Hamilton Improvised, as well as participate in the Our Cities On Our Stages symposium. The latter features a full-day of workshops, improv sessions, and presentations at the Bad Dog Theatre that promote diversity and inclusion. More info.
When: October 23-25
Where: The Theatre Centre
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Art Toronto
One of the biggest art fairs in Canada returns to the downtown core, with vibrant installations and galleries filled with works by artists from all over the world. New this year is Arte Sur, a section of the fair dedicated to Latin American creations, as well as a gallery called Generations, which showcases curated programs featuring multi-generational artists. Stroll through immersive exhibitions and join the Platform Talks to hear from art experts and curators. Art Toronto will host an opening night reception, offering complimentary drinks and canapés to celebrate the fair. More info.
When: October 23-26
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
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Rendezvous With Madness Festival
Sometimes visual media is the entry point to coming to terms with mental health and addiction. The Rendezvous With Madness Festival lineup is filled with titles that spotlight the human capacity for endurance in the face of adversity. This year’s theme is “Disrupt the Focus”, a statement that questions which narratives are heard and which are silenced. Some films to check out include No More News for Nancy, Writing Hawa, and Shuffle. More info.
When: October 23-November 2
Where: CAMH Auditorium
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Cake Cabaret Presents: Masquerade
Toronto’s hot cabaret and burlesque bar is planning a one-of-a-kind show for this Halloween, combining the spookiness with glamour. The performance will offer a blend of burlesque, dance, comedy, and theatre. Those in attendance are encouraged to match the show’s dress code, capturing the vibe of Gothic Glam. More info.
When: October 24
Where: Cake Cabaret
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A Black Art Fair
At the same time that Art Toronto will be on, there’s another arts-focused event people should keep in mind. A Black Art Fair is returning to Toronto’s Little Jamaica, presenting the works of over 30 independent Black-Canadian artists from across the country, including Heritier Bilaka and Pixel Heller. This event will transform the Nia Centre into a hub for contemporary Black creativity, featuring arts talks, local vendors, and a new feature installation entitled The Living Room. More info.
When: October 25-26
Where: Nia Centre for the Arts
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