It’s the height of hibernation season; I get it.
But that doesn’t mean that the city puts on sweats and Netflix and retreats to the couch like we do.
From pop-ups and poutine to plays and parties, here are 12 things to check out this February in Toronto.
1. The Cantina by Campbell’s Pop-Up (now until February 21)
It’s soup season. Starting today, Rock Lobster chef and owner Matt Dean Pettit hosts a pop-up, The Cantina by Campbell’s, until February 21 at 501 Queen Street West. Chef Pettit has created four original, savoury, and easy soups made with the iconic Cambell’s brand. Each soup explores a different culture; Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, and a classic, hearty favourite. The Cantina by Campbell’s and Chef Pettit will serve up soup during lunch and dinnertime.
2. Richer Poorer Pop-Up (now until February 4)
In the spirit of California dreaming, hit Queen Street for the Richer Poorer pop-up. If you haven’t heard, Richer Poorer is a leading fashion sock and innerwear brand from California. The pop-up marks the California label’s debut in Canada and features the brand’s top items. You’ll find them inside the SHOES.com store located at 356 Queen Street West, where the whole space has been fully transformed into a Californian boutique.
3. Winterlicious (Now until February 11)
Winterlicious continues in all of its gourmet glory until February 11 – so make some reservations now. Of course, this means hundreds of prix-fixe meals from some of Toronto’s finest restaurant as they show off their specialties – from starters to desserts. Prices range from around $18 to $28 for lunch, or $25 to $45 for dinner per person.
4. La Poutine Week (Now until February 7)
There’s no better time to shamelessly indulge in one of Canada’s greatest sources of comfort, poutine, than in the dead of winter. During Poutine Week, 20 restaurants in Toronto will dish up their unique and creative spins on the beloved dish. For $10, you can try a poutine from any participating restaurant and – should you be so ambitious – vote for the best on Poutine Week’s website.
5. Toronto motionball Gala (February 5)
The motionball Toronto Gala returns for the 15th year on Friday, February 5th, transforming the Liberty Grand into the ultimate young professional-filled party playground. You’ve obviously heard of the motionball gala – the must-attend charity event of the year for Toronto young professionals (YPs) from all industries – and it’s for an amazing cause. The evening is in support of the Special Olympics Canada Foundation.
6. Twelve Angry Men (Now until February 13)
If you’re in the market for a little theatre, you may want to check out Twelve Angry Men at the Soulpepper theatre (because everyone needs to see a quality production of the classic jury-drama at least once in life). For those in the dark, the fate of a young man accused of murdering his father lies in the hands of 12 diverse strangers, whose powerful deliberation offers a compelling look into the justice system with themes that continue to resonate today.
7. Shantell Martin: Drawing Toronto (February 6-March 12)
Coldstream Fine Art will present “Drawing Toronto,” an exhibition of six new works on canvas by the multifaceted artist Shantell Martin. Martin’s work bridges fine art, performance art, technology, and the everyday experience – conversations, objects, and places. She’s especially known for her large-scale, black-and-white artwork.
(Photo: Shantell Martin)
8. NBA All-Star Weekend (February 12-14)
Though tickets to the main event are virtually impossible to get your hands on, the city is full of events to mark the NBA All-Star weekend. Naturally, we’ve got you covered.
9. The Ultimate Sneaker Show (February 13)
With the NBA All-Star weekend, Canada’s number one sneaker show will host a special event to engage sneaker enthusiasts from around the world. Whether it’s traditional sneakers, vintage kicks, or hard to find shoes, The Ultimate Sneaker Show will have something for everyone. Already being the largest sneaker convention in Canada, this NBA All-Star version will highlight some of the biggest sneaker collections in the world, including shoes worn by some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.
10. Canadian International Auto Show (February 12-21)
Car enthusiasts and scenesters alike will hit the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for the Canadian International Auto Show. You can expect a selection of vehicles you only wish you could afford, from exotic brands like McLaren, Ferrari, and Maserati; the Art and the Automobile feature exhibit; vehicles made famous by their celebrity owners and pop-culture relevance; and cars designed for young professionals.
11. The 2015 Notable Awards (February 17)
We’re not trying to brag or anything, but the event we’re most excited for is our very own 2015 Notable Awards. At the Notable Awards, you’ll join hundreds of Canada’s most influential millennials in what can only be described as “the Oscars for young professionals.” Of course, an after party of epic proportions follows (tickets are available exclusively for the after party) – and one you’ll probably want to keep your Thursday morning meeting free for.
12. The Artist Project (February 18-21)
The Artist Project, a juried contemporary art fair, is back for its ninth year. It kicks off with the Thursday night party, which always draws an assortment of the city’s movers and shakers. The Artist Project is a great opportunity for everyone from first-time homebuyers and interior designers to emerging/seasoned collectors and gallerists to check out local and international artists who are showcasing their works.
See you out on the town.