The Lunar New Year parties are far from over, so if you weren’t able to join in on the festivities last week, our Best Bets have got you covered with other cultural events that are kicking off the year of the Fire Horse. In addition to the Chinese celebrations, other events happening this week include an exclusive screening of TIFF crowd-pleaser, Degrassi: Whatever It Takes, and a fire and ice festival at the heart of Greektown.
View this post on Instagram
Fire Horse Club
Toronto will host a five-day pop-up, celebrating art, culture, and glamour inspired by Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year. Given that this is the year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of confidence and independence, this event was organized with the intention of commemorating bold beginnings through curated art by Peter Chan, flavourful, numerology-inspired cocktails, and special prizes. Visitors can enter a contest and take their chances at winning a Hermès Birkin Bag and an unforgettable trip to Hong Kong. More info.
When: February 17-22
Where: Cry Baby Gallery
View this post on Instagram
Spotlight at The Second City
Spotlight at The Second City highlights sketch comedy’s best troupes and talented comedians on the rise. This new series created by Taylor Hreljac and Gabe Meacher presents a double bill, with two comedy troupes taking the stage and making audiences laugh uncontrollably. This week’s lineup features Legally Brown and Emily Jeffers, whose sketches are a guaranteed good time. More info.
When: February 17-18
Where: The Second City
View this post on Instagram
People of the City
A Toronto story will be brought to life through improv at Bad Dog Theatre’s Armando-style show. People of the City features real local stories, sparked by fun and inventive scenes performed by a talented ensemble. Each night has a monologist from Toronto sharing tales that inspire the cast’s spontaneous comedy. From late-night TTC experiences to neighbourhood quirks, the actors bring the city to life, finding humour in everyday moments that are unique to the 6ix. More info.
When: February 18-28
Where: Bad Dog Theatre
View this post on Instagram
Degrassi: Whatever It Takes
After having its world premiere at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival, Degrassi: Whatever It Takes will be screened at Hot Docs this weekend. The documentary highlights four decades of the Degrassi franchise, interweaving archival footage with interviews with the cast, crew, and fans. From its grassroots beginnings in the ‘80s to later becoming a global phenomenon, Degrassi pushed boundaries by offering a mirror to the teenage experience. The doc dives into the behind-the-scenes of it all, and audiences at Hot Docs will also get to hear from director Lisa Rideout, co-writer/story editor Celine Wong and Degrassi cast member Amanda Stepto in a special post-screening Q&A. More info.
When: February 21
Where: Hot Docs
View this post on Instagram
Hollywood Jade Presents: DIVA
Join this quintessential drag show, where a lineup of outstanding Queens will get to emulate divas in pop culture through choreography, mannerisms, and curated glam. DIVA is a dazzling celebration of drag’s roots, with iconic female impersonation taking center stage. Featuring The Traitors Canada Season 3 winner Hollywood Jade, Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 winner The Virgo Queen, and more, you’ll surely have a good time watching them perform anthems from artists like Tina Turner and Janet Jackson. More info.
When: February 21
Where: Harbourfront Centre
View this post on Instagram
Let the Elephants Dance Fundraising Gala
10 years in, the Let the Elephants Dance Fundraising Gala continues to support mental health awareness through live performances, guest speakers, a silent auction, and more. The event’s goal is to break stigma and provide mental health resources for communities in need, with proceeds from this year’s gala going to organizations like Kids Help Phone and Toronto Indigenous Harm Reduction. Watch performances and speakers as they use their talent and platform to share their stories, giving hope to those still suffering. More info.
When: February 21
Where: 918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media and Education
View this post on Instagram
Toronto Chinatown Lunar New Year Celebrations
ChinatownBIA is offering a variety of programs to celebrate Lunar New Year. From a lion dance to Chinese music performances, this cultural event will present a stacked lineup of engaging activities that’ll take place at both the Chinatown Centre and Dragon City Mall. Join in on the festivities by watching local artists take the stage, visiting the DIY culture booths, and entering gift giveaways. More info.
When: February 21-22
Where: Chinatown Centre and Dragon City Mall
View this post on Instagram
2026 GreekTown Fire & Ice Festival
Ice carving competitions and glowing performances by Hoop You will transform the Danforth into a magical mix of frosty artistry and fiery energy. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite ice sculptures and enjoy live entertainment that is free, and family-friendly. Fire & Ice invites Torontonians to bundle up and experience winter in a whole new way, with each night ending with a special LED drummer performance. More info.
When: February 21-22
Where: Alexander the Great Parkette
Toronto Postcard Club Show
Thousands of vintage postcards will be on display at the Toronto Postcard Club Show, an annual event that hosts Canada’s largest postcards selection. From the early 1900’s through the ‘chromes’ of modern times, there’s something of interest for everyone seeking their next rare find. Postcards up for sale will be in organized boxes, labeled based on topic and geography. More info.
When: February 22
Where: The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
View this post on Instagram
The Punk Talk Series
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of punk through intimate discussions with Toronto’s first wave of punk artists. Enjoy light refreshment, dive into music history, and hear from members of the Curse, Canada’s first all-female punk band. After the panel discussion moderated by author Liz Worth, attendees are welcome to silk screen their own punk-inspired souvenir in a session led by Kingi Carpenter. More info.
When: February 22
Where: Peach Bersek
Follow Us On Instagram
