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What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

August 13, 2009

August 13th

Watch Me Grow Family Garden Drop-In Program (High Park Children's Garden, Colburne Lodge, High Park)

Each Thursday in August at the High Park Children's Garden kids can plant, water, and harvest the garden and prepare fresh snacks from their efforts. There will also be crafts and snacks. Caregivers must supervise kids for this is a drop-in program (no registration required). Call 416 338 5055 for more information.

August 14th

Meet and Greet with Elmo (Ontario Place)

Yes, that's right, the red guy will be available to shake hands with and for a photo op at Ontario Place. He will be appearing daily starting on the 14th through to Sunday the 16th. Call 416 314 9900 for more information.

Movies under the Stars (Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Rd)

Come to enjoy a movie in the great outdoors (rain or shine) in Downsview Park. This week is Horton Hears a Who (a fav of Gigi). The movie starts around 9pm (sunset)

All Weekend

ZOO-ZA-PA-LOOZA (Toronto Zoo)

Waterslide Theatre at the Toronto Zoo will have a special animal show, singers, and all sorts of entertainment all day long. The event runs between 9am and 6:30pm and is included in the price of zoo admission. Visit their site or call 416 392 5929 for more information.

FREE WEEKENDS at City of Toronto Historic Sites

Free admission on Saturday and Sundays for the remainder of August at Toronto Historic Sites, so go check out the programs and events at Colborne Lodge, Fort York, Gibson House, Mackenzie House, Montgomery's Inn, Scarborough Historical Museum, Spadina Museum, and Todmorden Mills. Depending on location there may be music, drama, crafts, and snacks for all the family to enjoy.

The Sound of Music is in the Air (Yorkville Park, Cumberland and Bellair Streets)

As part of the The Sound of Music is in the Air series of musical acts, this weekend strollers and shoppers in the Bloor-Yorkville area this weekend shoppers can enjoy Plakaso (August 15) and Donald Guinn Trio (August 16).

Top Five Things I Needed To Survive Our Vacation

by Katie

August 04, 2009

Because our trip across Canada was going to take weeks and we didn't really know when we would be able to do laundry, we had to pack our limited luggage with extreme prejudice. We were two adults packing as light as possible for five people - we had to be able to carry, fly, and drive with it from Atlantic to Pacific oceans.

So obviously I had to pack light on the toys and entertainment selection because there is no question which wins in the extra underwear versus full-size and operational Buzz Lightyear Doll debate.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 25, 2009

This weekend looks like it might be hot and maybe sticky in places - not to mention a tad fragrant from the garbage strike. Since the majority of water features & parks are closed, I'm not sure exactly how we are going to stay cool but we will find a way. Our agenda may include a trip for ice cream at Dutch Dreams, or a playdate at Dufferin Grove (I was there today with Mamalooper and No Mother Earth) - because the shade of that park makes for hours of comfortable playing.There are also some other things going on around town (and just outside) that we may check out:

The CN Tower is having a Birthday!

The CN Tower is turning thirty-three -- wow, really? It doesn't look a day over 20 -- and for the special day on Saturday the tower will be red and white (have a look for it before bedtime).

Cobourg Highland Games Festival

Why not escape the city and the garbage and strikes and head to Cobourg to experience over 100 pipers, dancers, and Celtic traditions of all kinds at the Cobourg Highland Festival. There will be games going on all day (every see a man toss a telephone pole or a cannon ball -- IN A KILT? Here's your chance). Everyone can be Scottish for the day, just stay clear of the hagus.

Summer Music In the Garden at Harbourfront Centre

Starting today and every Thursday at 7pm / Sundays at 4pm there will be a free performance of classical music and dance all summer long. The music and dance take place in the garden that was designed by Yo Yo Ma and Julie Moir Messervy. Concert admission is free and all performances are weather-permitting. For more information on the concert series visit Harbourfrontcentre.com

Summer Reading Club Kick-off

At many branches around the city, the TD Summer Reading Club is starting this week and the theme is Agent 009. Check the Toronto Public Library branch nearest you for registration dates to pick up your reading club super sleuth kit. Gerrad/Ashdale (1432 Gerrad St. E) will be be signing up all day Saturday and Long Branch Library (3500 Lakeshore Blvd W) will be having a kick-off on Saturday between 2 and 3pm.

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Five Canadian Spots That Will Wow a Preschooler

by Katie

June 23, 2009

Sudbury Nickel The Science Centre and Giant Nickel in Ontario
I think my daughter would be impressed with a nickel as big as the one in Sudbury not to mention, she would love a trip to the Science Centre where she could experience an indoor thunderstorm, built a LEGO robot, and walk among hundreds of butterflies at Science North. I just hope when she sees that nickel, she doesn't expect to find a piggy bank to match.

Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta
Why not bring the kid to the dinosaurs since Gigi loves everything dinosaur? It would blow her mind to see bones and fossils up close. Dinosaur Provinicial Park has family programs geared for kids too young to do the long hikes through the park, and this way they get to see up close different fossils from the Cretaceous Period (don't ask me when that was, I just know it was before I was born.)

The Corn Maze in Saskatchewan
Well if you are going to do a corn maze, it might as well be in Saskatchewan. In Regina there is a nine-acre corn maze plus smaller ones for the little kids and this place sounds like fun (obviously this is seasonal so check website for dates). Gigi went through her first corn maze this past Hallowe'en and I'm sure she'd love one as challenging as a Saskatchewan corn maze (because they grow them tall out there!)

Assiniboine Park in Manitoba
Located in Winnipeg, Assiniboine Park includes a zoo, conservatory, a sculpture garden, a train, and a statue of the famous Winnie the Pooh. Just seeing the statue of Winnie the Pooh in his home environment should score me some brownie points if I deliver this one to Gigi.

Hatley Park Castle in British Columbia
If I could deliver a real castle this summer to my princess-in-training, her head may explode. 100-year-old Hatley Castle is hidden among the trees and formal gardens in Hatley Park and while I doubt they have a dragon or moat on site, my princess will still approve.

So why all these great Canadian attractions that stretch from Toronto to Victoria? Because we are planning a road trip across Canada this summer and I plan for our family to visit as many of these "wow my preschooler" spots as possible. What would wow your preschooler between here and British Columbia? Please share - this momma needs all the help with her itinerary that she can get.

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What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 18, 2009

It's Father's Day this weekend and of course The Bunch Family has something cool going on. This Sunday is Totstock, an outdoor "eco, rock, and literary festival" (weather gods call for sun and high of 27) and here are the details:

Totstock '09
WHEN: Sunday, June 21, 2-5 PM
WHERE: Sorauren Park
COST: PWYC, proceeds to benefit the High Park Nature Centre

Line-Up includes Claire Jenkins * Andrew Larsen and Irene Luxbacher * I Eat Kids * Don Kerr and the Blue Bin Band * Claudia Dey * Cowboy Ninja Bear * Cirque Dirt * Barbara Klunder * Dave Wall

Also going on around town:

Father's Day Stories and Craft

This Saturday afternoon, Maria A. Shchuka Library (1745 Eglinton W) celebrates Father's day with a dad-centric themed story time and craft. 11 - 12pm. Call 416 393-1000 for more information

Kids Krafts at Mackenzie House

This Saturday, the entire family is invited for an afternoon of crafts at Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street), the home of Toronto's first mayor William Lyon Mackenzie. Children can participate in historically based activities and make a craft between noon and 4:30pm. Call 416 392 6915 for more information.

Teddy's Bear Picnic 2009

Saturday afternoon at The Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main St. S, Newmarket) is hosting the annual Teddy Bear Picnic that will include games, contests, beary fun activities. Pre-registration required. Call 905 953 5314 for more information.

Visiting the National & Provincial Parks with Preschoolers

by Katie

June 15, 2009

What is your favourite national park to visit with the kids? Have you ever camped with a preschooler? How can a parent make visiting a park or heritage site fun and interesting for the young ones? Parks Canada has some great resources in the online Teacher Resource Centre. There are fact sheets, ideas for activities, and print-outs like crossword puzzles for older children.

Our destination this summer is Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia. I've been camping there more times than I can remember and can't wait to share it with Gigi this year. Since I've always done back country camping (mostly canoeing and portages), we will adjust our itinerary to suit an almost four year old. Using the site, I was able to figure out what sites would be most suitable for our family and activities she can participate in while there.

We also plan on spending time in Algonquin Provincial Park this summer which will be a first for both Gigi and me. If it hadn't been for their website, I would have never known about the theatre and art centre in The Algonquin Room. Also, we might have to plan our trip around one of the Public Wolf Howls because howling with/at the wolves sounds very Dr. Doolittle.

So how about you? Will you be visiting any of the many magnificent parks in your province this year?

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What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 04, 2009

This weekend there are quite a few things going on around town and I'll be hosting one of the events (warning: self-promotion ahead) so if you are free on Saturday...

I'm hosting a BlogHer Toronto get together this Saturday morning at the Don Mills Brickworks between 10 and 12pm (see full details here) and we'd love any blog-hers to join in. It's family friendly -- I'll be bringing Gigi -- and we will be hanging out, enjoying the sunshine and farmer's market. I'll bring the coffee, you just bring your beautiful blogging self. Let me know here if you can make it.

Also on Saturday, Bunch is hosting a free family block party at Yonge-Dundas Square as part of the Luminato Festival!. Here are the details:

Family Dance Party: Luminato Edition

Date: Saturday, June 6

Time: 11 AM - 2 PM

Place: Yonge-Dundas Square (1 Dundas St. E)

Hosted by MC Abdominal with DJ Fase.

Children are invited to make banners for the next weekend's closing events of Luminato. Sounds like fun, so I think we'll try to do both.

Also going on this weekend:

Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street)

This Saturday, the entire family is invited for an afternoon of Kids Krafts at the home of Toronto's first mayor William Lyon Mackenzie. Children can participate in historically based activities and make a craft between noon and 4:30pm. Call 416 392 6915 for more information.

Harbourfront Centre

Luminato presents Red Sky Performance: Tono. Tono is a form of dance that links the Indiginous cultures of Canada, Mongolia, and China. Performances on Saturday at 4pm and 8pm and on Sunday at 4pm. For more information visit the Luminato website.

Nathan Phillips Square

Walk Now for Autism is a short 3km family-friendly walk taking place this Sunday to raise money for autisim research and awareness. There will be games, activites and entertainment for all ages. The walk starts at 10am at Nathan Phillips Square but festivities begin at 8:30 am.

Class Trips with Preschoolers

by Katie

June 01, 2009

Today I was a class parent on a trip to a local farm and if there is one thing I’ve learned in this first year of having a school-age child, it’s always pack for the unexpected. But of course, I only just learned that lesson today with the unexpected things being the weather and a food shortage.

You see, I felt very cocky this morning when we left pretty much on time to catch our bus to the farm and felt confident that I was prepared with the selection of items in my backpack. Oh how wrong I was to feel so confident.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 28, 2009

There's a lot to choose from this weekend but I stuck with indoor events based on the weather of the past few days. Though I had to include the Great Strides event at the Toronto Zoo because it's for such a great cause. Stay dry folks!

Distillery District

Children's Trunk Show runs 9:30 to 4:30 Friday. Over fifty vendors in a totally kid friendly atmosphere -- think stroller friendly aisles and kid-friendly products. Plenty of parking (The Distillery
In the Fermenting Cellar, Buildings 6 & 7, 55 Mill Street)

Art Gallery of Ontario

Off the Wall! Dr. Mariano Elia Hands on Centre at the AGO. Come and make your mark at this amazing play space in the newly renovated AGO. Recommended for ages two through ten and open daily from 10am to 2pm.

Solar Stage Theatre

Happy Birthday, Alistair Ant is a space age musical puppet show about life's simple pleasures. Recommended for ages three to seven, there are two shows on both Saturday and Sunday but tickets are going fast.(4950 Yonge Street, near Yonge and Sheppard)

Toronto Zoo

Collect a minimum of twenty-five dollars in pledges for cystic fibrosis Great Strides campaign and receive free admission to the zoo on Sunday May 31st, plus a special show, free lunch, and loot bags. For more details visit the Toronto Zoo website and for pledge forms go to cysticfibrosis.ca/greatstrides

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 21, 2009

No better time than this weekend than to get out and do some gardening with the kids. Our local church is having a plant sale and the weather looks great, so I'll lather up the sunscreen on everyone, put a hat over every head, and prepare myself to be scrubbing dirty finger nails at sundown.

If you are looking for some kid-friendly green thumb inspiration that won't break the piggy bank this weekend check these Toronto events out:

Doors Open at the Don Valley Brick Works

Plant seedlings, learn how to create a container garden, buy plants, and all sorts of other environmentally friendly activities will be going on at the Evergreen Brick Works, and see the plans to regenerate these industrial buildings. Local artists and storytellers will be on hand to help inspire creativity at this family-friendly event. Doors open runs both days this weekend May 23rd 10-2pm / May 24th 10-4pm

Celebrate Spring & Grow a Garden at Riverdale Library (370 Broadview Ave)

On Saturday afternoon at the Riverdale Library, children are invited to plant a butterfly garden and take home a plant for their garden. Call for more information 416 393 7720 May 23rd 2-2:30pm.

And not plant related but definitely planet related, this is the last weekend to check out Cosmic Revolutions at the Ontario Science Centre. This is a fascinating photography exhibit that includes photos done by both professional and amateur astronomers, photographers, and artists from across Canada. Show the kids how other Canadians take in the night sky.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 07, 2009

You mean besides Mother’s Day?

Scratch that: Mother's Day is the most important thing going on this weekend (IMHO) so here are lots of mom-themed activities to do with the people who make Mom the person she is today (sleep-deprived and insane.)

To kick it off, there is the annual pre-Mother’s Day Bunch Family bash which is where I will be this Saturday afternoon with family in tow (details below).

Bunch Family Dance Party: Glam Rock Pre-Mother's Day Edition

Takes place Saturday afternoon from 2-5pm at The Courthouse (57 Adelaide Street East) and the theme is Glam Rock baby! So dig out the shiny pants, New York Dolls tee, and anything that will make your family look more Ziggy Stardust and come dancing. The crew from TVO Pop It will be there to share dance moves, there will be bowie inspired face painting, and lots of other glitter-inspired "we love mom" activities. Advanced tickets highly recommended. Visit the Bunch Family website for ticket purchase details.

Other Mother's Day activities going on around town:

Chinese Brush Painting for Mother's Day at Woodside Square Library (1571 Sandhurst Circle)

To compliment both Asian Heritage Month and Mother's Day a children's workshop will take place from 11 - 12:30 pm on Saturday. Children will create a brush painting to give as a gift to mom on her special day. All materials provided and registration can be done via phone 416 396 8979.

Mother's Day Celebration at Humber Summit Library (2990 Islington Avenue)

There will be a one-hour story time and craft session starting at 2pm at the library and children will make a special gift for mom. Registration is required so call ahead 416 395 5840.

Happy Mother's Day at St. Lawrence Library (171 Front Street East)

Listen to stories that celebrate mom then make a craft to give her on Sunday. The one hour session starts at 2pm and is recommended for children ages four and up (416 393 7655).

Mother's Day at the Toronto Zoo

Meet some other kinds of moms - as in "other species". Springtime means parent animals are abundant at one of our favorite weekend excursions. Walk on the wild side with Mom (and Dad) on Sunday between 9 and 6pm.

Mother's Day Tea at Spadina Museum (285 Spadina Road)

Enjoy an afternoon tea with Mom in the beautiful Spadina House and gardens. A must for any ladies-in-waiting. Two seatings at 12:30 and 2:30pm on Sunday. Advanced tickets are required. For more information call 416 392 6910 x305.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

April 30, 2009

There are many things to do this weekend and the weather looks like it will cooperate perciptation wise (now that I've said that, it will rain both days). If we don't hit any parks this weekend, I'll be sorely disappointed but I think we will all be happy campers if we hit at least one of the activities below this weekend. Happy first weekend in May!

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

April 23, 2009

The Bata Shoe Museum has Saturday Shenanigans and Paint-a-Clog Sunday this weekend. Suitable for kids aged three to nine, Saturday Shenanigans includes a shoe-themed craft plus a chance to explore the exhibits and Paint-a-Clog Sunday invites children to paint a mini-clog and visit the galleries.

Earth Day Celebrations at Earl Bales Community Centre (4169 Bathurst, south of Sheppard) take place this Sunday from noon until 3pm and there is lots to do for all the members of the family. There will be Hike and Learn sessions about local wildlife, activities in the community centre and park, and craft & art sessions so kids can create their own masterpieces from recycled materials. There will also be environmetally friendly products on display and prizes to be won. Also at 1pm there will be a wild cat performance just to add a bit more to the wildlife. For more information, call 416 395-7873.

World in a Flapp! At the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga on Sunday there will be two performances of the family musical comedy about Major Conrad Flapps and his hilarious attempts to be airborne. Major Flapp travels the world and invites to audience to be his crew. There will be two afteroon performances at 1 and 3 pm. For more information call 905 306 6000.

Exploring the Geology of the Lower Don at Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum (Pottery Rd) Geologist Ed Freeman will lead a guided walk of the area where the family can learn about the river's history. The walk goes to the Sun brick works and back, leaving at 1:30 returning for 3pm. For more information call 416 396 2819 (this is a free activity and that includes free parking)

What's Going On This Weekend In Toronto

by Katie

April 09, 2009

There is lots to do this long weekend in Toronto and it looks like the weather is going to act like it is Spring time (if there is any more snow, I might just go more insane than I already am.) Have a great weekend everyone!

Visit Colborne Lodge in High Park to learn about Easter Traditions of years past. Children can decorate eggs and admired all the beautiful and intricate Ukraninan eggs on display.

Gibson House (Yonge right at North York Centre subway) is open this Saturday through Monday and is hosting demonstrations of 19th century cookery plus family activities in the hands-on discovery gallery.

Toronto Zoo's Annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza runs Friday through Sunday from 9:30 to 3:30 daily. Easter eggs are in the animal exhibit this weekend where Easter keepers will be giving talks and maybe the Easter Bunny might make an appearance or two. There also might be some chocolate treats to be found for those on the hunt.

Theatre Direct Canada presents Walking The Tightrope, an original play by Mike Kenny. This play tackles the difficult topic of a child dealing with loss and change. A young girl and her grandfather spend their annual visit together, but this year Nanny Queenie is no longer with them. Aimed at children five and up, this play runs until May 3rd at the Artscape Wychwood Barns (Christie & St. Clair St. West). Ticket and information available at the Theatre Direct Canada website.

The All About Pets Show will be going all weekend, Friday through Sunday at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road, Mississauga). This will probably make for a fun day, there will be a cat show, dogs demonstrating fly ball, a doggie fashion show (seriously), along with some birds and pet trainers who are there to talk pets. Also, do you know Maggie from the Cesar's commercials - the one that steals shoes? She will be there an available for photos. Kids under five are free.

Crossing Number Six off The List: The CN Tower

by Katie

April 06, 2009

We can cross one of the “must-do activities” off the list ! Last week, we went up the CN Tower with friends and spent a fun couple of hours overlooking all of Toronto and the Lake. Any reservations I had about Gigi being scared evaporated as soon as I saw her make her way to the front of the glass elevator to watch the city shrink before her eyes. Trains we had just passed in the PATH looked so tiny as we zoomed up 113 storeys in about a minute. I seriously thought she might freak out but nope, not a chance. This girl danced on the glass floor, lay down so I could take her picture, and ran around on the 114th storey outdoor deck full tilt.

What's going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

March 26, 2009

It may be raining this weekend but the temperatures are on the plus side and rain doesn't need to be shovelled. There's lots going on in and around the city so there is no excuse to get outside with the family. Unless you are really lazy. Like me ;)

Saturday March 28th
Starwatch & Earth Hour
TVO and the Ontario Science Centre need you to get outside with the kids after dark, and count the stars around the Big Dipper. Then they want you to compare the results found during Earth Hour on Saturday night. Enter the data online to help answer the question "Do you see more stars during Earth Hour?" Full details on how to participate can be found at TVOkids.com and OSC sites via the Earth Hour links.

Saturday Senanigans at the Bata Shoe Museum
This weekend the Bata Shoe Museum hosts the Annual Toronto Festival of Storytelling where children can listening to tales told by some of the best storytellers around. There are sessions for children 5 and under, and children 6 through 10. Session details can be found on the website. Readings are scheduled during both the morning and afternoon on Saturday and Sunday.

Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival at Kortright and Bruce's Mill
Tap into some of sweetness and spend a day in the beautiful outdoors, eating pancakes and going on wagon rides. Runs both Saturday and Sunday full details on their website.

It's Maple Syrup Time
MapleTowne is open at Mountsberg Conservation Area.Wagon rides through the sugar bush, see a demo of maple candy creation, and sample some of the goodies - sounds good to me. Activities are on daily from 10 to 4pm both Saturday and Sunday.

Sunday March 29th
Bunch Family Salon - Contemporary Art Edition at OCAD
Leading artists and thinkers spend the afternoon with parents and children, for an afternoon of creativity. Games, workshops, and inspiration galore at the Ontario College of Art and Design. (100 McCaul Street, 2 - 5 pm) www.bunchfamily.ca (recommended to purchase advance tickets)

Top Five Walking Paths in Toronto

by Katie

March 24, 2009

Before this past Winter hit, a friend and her daughter invited Gigi and I for a tricycle ride in a park. She suggested one of the great ravine parks we had never visited before and I’m so glad she did. We hit the East Don Parkland, near Finch and Leslie. We just parked on one of the side streets near Alamosa Drive where there is an entrance to the ravine. We spent hours walking around, going over bridges, and have a picnic in one of the clearings. The girls had their tricycles and the paths were completely accessible (great for strollers, bikes, wheelchairs, and carts).

After our trip there, I started to research more of these fantastic trails around our beautiful city and any time someone mentions or suggests their favourite spot, I jot it down in hops that we can check it out. We are avid walkers, and now that Gigi loves her tricycle, I want to give this apartment-dwelling girl all the room she needs. She is F-A-S-T!

Yesterday I read a great article by John Goddard in the Toronto Sun about author Elliott Katz and his research on Toronto walking trails. Mr. Katz knows what he is talking about when it comes to walking in Toronto; he is the author of Great Country Walks Around Toronto, which was first published in 1984 and now is in the sixth edition. He created the book of twenty-two trails, with maps and directions from TTC, after moving here from Montreal. A friend had suggested he go for a walk in Rosedale Ravine near St. Clair subway station and he was amazed to discover the tranquility and nature just steps away from the bustling streets. With research, he concluded many of these hidden park treasures in the city were hidden because the paths into them are mostly hidden. So he wrote the book so others in Toronto could enjoy nature without leaving the city.

In the Toronto Star article, he shared his Top Five City Strolls and those parks are now my top five trails to hit this Spring with Gigi. Care to join us?

Rosedale St. Clair to Moore Avenue
East Don River Steeles to Sheppard west of Leslie
Humber River Valley Old Mill subway to Eglinton Avenue
Scarborough Bluffs Bluffer’s Park to the lakeshore
Lower Highland Creek and East Point Park Lawrence Avenue E past Morningside Avenue

Please share any of your favourite walking spots – especially those that are tricycle/bicycle friendly. It really makes it an easy bedtime when my child has had a long bike ride or walk, and we all love getting outside. It makes me feel all healthy and stuff, and that can only be a good thing (sure beats being a couch potato.)

What's Going On This Weekend In Toronto

by Katie

March 05, 2009

This weekend looks like it will be very mild which is WAY better than these Arctic-like freezing temperatures we've been having lately. Though, one positive products of this cold weather is the sugar run. Both the Kortright and Bruce's Mill conservation areas kick off their Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival on March 7th. The festivals include wagon rides, demonstrations, pancakes and of course, the star of the show: Maple Syrup! Children under four are free at both locations - for full admission rates and directions to both events, click here. This event runs until April 13th.
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99 Things To Do With My Daughter Before She Grows Up

by Katie

March 02, 2009

Way back when I started blogging for Savvy Source Toronto, I started a list of 100 things to do with my daughter in Toronto before she got too old to want to spend a weekend or evening with me. You just know that any day now she's going to figure out I'm not cool at all and ditch me for her friends. So before that time comes, I've got to get cracking at this list. The first thing I've done is update it.

I decided to break the activities into categories like Classes, Touristy, Festivals to be all organized (which for me is a major accomplishment these days). Some a bit closer to the five and up age categories but it's nice to have this be a reminder. Maybe I should print this off and put it on the fridge for those days when we are all saying "there's nothing to do." In Toronto, there is always something to do. I think my favourite category in here is the Farms for City Kids, we hit a few last year and had a blast. Gigi loved the hayrides, I loved the fresh produce, and we both loved the animals. Nothing beats escaping the city, even if it is only for a couple of hours.

National Ballet of Canada (Art, Film, & Drama)
Art Gallery of Ontario
Solar Stage Children's Theatre
Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People
National Film Board Mediatheque
CN Tower (Be a Toronto Tourist)
Centre Island
Ride the entire subway system
Canada's Wonderland
Hockey Hall of Fame
Medieval Times
Ontario Place
Honest Ed's
Kensington Market
Toronto School of Circus Arts (Art/Pottery/Circus Classes)
Glitter Pie Art Studio
Art Garage Inc.
Messy Hands Art Studio
Avenue Road Art School
Academy of Artisans
Cedar Ridge Creative Centre
Gardiner Museum Pottery Classes
Andrews Scenic Acres (Farms for City Kids)
Chudleigh's Apple Farm
Downey's Farm Market and Winery
Forsythe Family Farms
Whittamore's Berry Farm
Black Creek Pioneer Village
Taste of the Danforth (Festivals and Special Events)
Word on the Street
Nuit Blanche
Festival of South Asia
Sleepover at Toronto Zoo Serengeti Bush Camp
Sleepover at the ROM
Sleepover at the Ontario Science Centre
Sprockets TIFF for Children
bunch family parties
March Break Spring Fling at the Rogers Centre
Royal Ontario Museum (Museums)
The Ontario Science Centre
Riverdale Farm
Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre
Bata Shoe Museum
Campbell House Museum
Casa Loma
Crawford Lake (reconstructed Iroquoian Village)
Gibson House Museum
Fort York
Markham Museum
Toronto Botanical Gardens
Toronto's First Post Office Museum
Blue Jays game (Support the Home Team)
Toronto Maple Leafs Game
Toronto FC Game
Toronto Zoo (Animals and Zoos)
Bowmanville Zoo
High Park Zoo
Humber Arboretum - Centre for Urban Ecology
Jungle Cat World Zoological Park
Mountsberg Wildlife Centre
Animals with Whimz
Richmond Hill Wave Pool
YogaBuds (Anything Active)
The Yoga Sanctuary
Plunge aquatic centre (Collingwood)

Obviously if you have made it down this far, you've figured out that I haven't made it to 99 yet. I'm still working on it and am totally open to suggestions (help a girl out, would ya?). Read more...

Whats Going On In Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

February 26, 2009

This weekend looks like it's going to be a cold but bright one. If it’s sunny with no wind, we will probably be hitting the parks or the rink. I can’t stand it outside when the wind turns us into instant icicles – if that’s the case, we are staying indoors. But in order to ward off cabin fever and exhaust / exercise little limbs – we must find access to warm play space. Because trust me, running this little girl enough to get the wiggles out cannot be done from within these apartment walls.

What's Going on in Toronto

by Katie

February 13, 2009

Bloor-Yorkville's IceFest 2009 is this weekend and it's the perfect excuse to chill out in downtown Toronto. On both Saturday and Sunday from noon until four, A World of Ice ice sculpture exhibit will be taking place in the Village of Yorkville Park (Bellair and Cumberland). Sculptures will include a passport-free trip to the the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Sphinx, Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty, and of course the CN Tower. If you go on Saturday, the Annual Sassafraz Ice Carving Competition is at noon and you can actually watch the ice sculptures created from the block, up.
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What's Going On In Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

February 06, 2009

If you have ever wanted to take a trip back in time to see what Valentine Day was like in Victorian Times, here's your chance: over at Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum & Arts Centre on Pottery Road is a Cast Iron Chef Cooking Workshop where you can sample old-fashioned candy and Victorian sweets. Preregistration is required for this sweet event. At Harbourfront Centre this weekend is Kuumba , Read more...

Deadline: Kindergarten

by Katie

January 27, 2009

Even though I am chomping at the bit to have my little lady go to Junior Kindergarten next Fall, I'm also a little bit sad. I keep denying myself the time to wallow in this sadness and analysis it, justify it, prepare myself for it. And in fact, I'm just in full denial most days. I keep telling myself she's going to love it ( she might not ) and we will have more routine in our lives. Oh and Read more...

What's Going On This Weekend in Toronto

by Katie

January 23, 2009

This weekend marks the 250th birthday of The Bard Robbie Burns, also known as Scotland's favourite son (though my favourite Scottish son is Ewan MacGregor - rawr). A family friendly celebration will be taking place at the Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street) this Sunday between noon and 4pm, and events include Celtic musical performances, shortbreads, and maybe a haggis or two (ewww). For more Read more...

Happy New Year

by Katie

January 02, 2009

Happy 2009 and I hope everyone found some peace and quiet over the holidays - or at least some wine and chocolate. Hopefully both. We had a bit of everything over the break - especially the chocolate. You can see the evidence of the New Year's Eve fondue on Miss Gigi's face: Gigi really REALLY enjoyed her first fondue and I sense a request for an encore will be coming down the pipe in the Read more...

What better way to end 2008, than with a top ten list

by Katie

December 30, 2008

You know what I need to do for this week's Tuesday list? A top ten year end round-up list. Because making lists is what Tuesday is all about and this being the last Tuesday of 2008, I'm going to list my favorite Savvy Souce posts - written by yours truly - from the past year. Researching and writing these posts this past year has been a blast. It's been extra motivation to explore Toronto and Read more...

I think it might be snowing in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

December 19, 2008

Okay, let's be serious, it's snowing cats and dogs in Toronto right now so nobody is going anywhere tonight BUT I bet lots of kids are thinking about the hills tomorrow. Specifically, which ones in the neighbourhood are going to be the best for sledding. And by the looks of things now, the front yard will probably be high enough. I'm glad I bought the sled last weekend, because we will be using Read more...

Inspiring gifts that you can only get in Toronto

by Katie

December 16, 2008

To steal a much abused phrase, the following gift ideas that I'm going to suggest for this holiday season, are the kind of gifts "that keep on giving" ( or at least, they keep on giving for the next year ) and they are also all specific to Toronto. Yes, I'm talking memberships to really interesting, fun, family-friendly or kid-friendly places in Toronto. The Royal Ontario Museum was the first Read more...

What's going on in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

December 05, 2008

At ROMKids Weekend on both Saturday and Sunday there will be lots of fun for the budding palaeologists and dinosaur lovers in your life. Gordo and Gertie, the dinosaur baby mascots of the ROM will be on hand to meet the kids (I hope they are herbivores) and the Dino Dig will be open from 10 to 5pm both days and is included in the price of admission. Kids can try their hand at digging for bones Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

November 28, 2008

How can it be the last weekend in November already? HOW? Well there is no denying that the city is in full Holiday swing now. If you have time between shopping all the pre-Christmas sales this weekend here are a few things that are going on around the city: At Montgomery's Inn (4709 Dundas Street West) is a Gingerbread House workshop . This is a hands-on workshop where you build your own Read more...

Toronto-centric kids books

by Katie

November 25, 2008

What better way to learn about Toronto than to read some kid-friendly books dedicated to the city. Toronto is a massive city, full of interesting places, natural wonders, and of course: hockey. Here are my top five picks for Toronto-centric kid books: The Lobster Kids' Guide to Exploring Toronto (Kids' City Explorer Series) is a Toronto Guide written for kids (okay,okay - parents are allowed Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

November 21, 2008

Tomorrow at the Bata Shoe Museum on Bloor, author Musharraf Farooqi will be reading from his latest children's book The Cobbler's Holiday or Why Ants Don't Wear Shoes . This family event will include a reading by the author followed by a shoe-tying competition. As an added bonus, there are two ways to score a free admission to the Bata Museum this weekend: come dressed up as an ant or small bug Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto (hint: it involves a man in red)

by Katie

November 14, 2008

The Santa Claus Parade is the weekend and I CANNOT WAIT. For over a hundred years, Toronto has heralded the arrival of Santa with this huge parade that originally started as a publicity stunt for the Eaton's store. How do you think Santa will arrive this year? Did you know that in 1913 Santa arrived in a sled pulled by REAL reindeer that Mr. Timothy Eaton imported from Labrador? Those reindeer Read more...

What's going on in toronto this weekend

by Katie

October 31, 2008

Happy Hallowe'en everyone! I hope everyone enjoys a bit of tricks or treats this evening and that the weekend finds you in a pleasant sugar induced coma. Tonight is the Cadbury's Haunted House at the Gladstone Chocolate Factory (THINK: FREE CHOCOLATE). For each child that shows up in costume tonight, one dollar will be go Unicef. Can you think of a better place to do trick-or-treating than at a Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

October 17, 2008

For anyone looking for a new bike, the Toronto International Bicycle Show is this Saturday from 10 am and 5 pm, at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place. The show promises a huge selection of bikes for sale plus there are competitions, challenges and shows for entertainment. Admission five dollars and I sense there will be lots of Pizza Pizza available on-site, which is a take-out Read more...

Finding Inspiration in Toronto: Part Two

by Katie

October 16, 2008

Earlier this week I listed some places in Toronto that could spark the imagination of little ones , but after I had compiled my list, I kept thinking of this place and that event and just couldn't keep them to myself. What can I say? I like to share and babble, just ask any of my family members. Anyhow, here are a few others inspirational places that only didn't make the cut earlier this Read more...

Finding Inspiration in Toronto

by Katie

October 14, 2008

Sometimes when all the books have been read, and all the local spots have been visited, Gigi and I hop on the subway or bus in search of adventure. I like to find places that inspire Gigi to act out some of the books she has read, or movies she has watched. Right now we have entered a really hardcore princess going to tea phase, so elegant places that call for dresses, tiaras, purses, and Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

August 01, 2008

CARIBANA ! I can never resist saying the word Caribana without using lots of gusto. This weekend is the Caribana Parade on Saturday and the De Caribana Lime Island Party at Olympic Island on Sunday . Both are all day events (10am to 6pm) with the parade starting at Exhibition Place and travelling west on Lakeshore Blvd. The De Caribana Lime Island Party will include a food competition, which Read more...

Three days in Toronto: Day Three

by Katie

July 10, 2008

Day three in Toronto takes place in the east end of the city on the wonderful Danforth. A great way to start a day on the Danforth is to jump off at the Chester subway stop and walk a block west to The Big Carrot Common ( 348 Danforth ). Their Vegetarian Caf is a great way to get something healthy and yummy in everyone's tummy. I recommend a bit of everything (I kid, but seriously, it's hard to Read more...

Three days in Toronto: day two

by Katie

July 09, 2008

High Park in the west end is one of the best outdoor places to hang out with children in Toronto. There are so many different activities for kids of all ages and it's easy to spend an entire day in the park, enjoy the great outdoors, and feel a bit of escape from the city. It's inexpensive, fun, and there should be something to suit everyone. I think the best way to do High Park is to arrive Read more...

100 Things To Do in Toronto with My Kid Before She Grows Up

by Katie

June 12, 2008

By writing this list of 100 things I must do with my child in Toronto before she grows up, I'm also admitting that my child is going to grow up and I don't like that one bit. I plan on telling her one day soon (perhaps after she is potty trained) that she can no longer grow up anymore. Yes folks, I'm in a state of denial. Since being informed that I must accept the fact that my little girl is Read more...

Top Toronto spots to play when it's cold outside

by Katie

January 20, 2008

Holy crow the weather has been nasty lately. Between that Arctic freeze last week and the never-ending snow on the weekend, Winter is here and it's not going anywhere fast. Weather like this calls for indoor play and sometimes those much needed playdates are no where to be found, so I'm going to share our top five indoor spots to hit when there is preschooler energy to be burned, cabin-fever to Read more...