Toronto Weekender: February 23 through 26, 2012

Here we at Thursday already. (Don’t you just love long weekends?) With less than 48 hours left to plan your weekend events, here’s our rundown of what’s happening in the city…

Tonight trek over to Bar Volo on Yonge just north of Wellesley. This pub has been on the block awhile but still has one of the best beer lists in the city with some awesome imports and tons of craft brews. Grab a Dieu du Ciel and some fine pub fare while kicking back and anticipating Friday punch-out.

If you’re looking to head to an event, there are two on the bound for you to check out. First up is Right to Play‘s big fundraiser on the Thompson Rooftop. Featuring sets by some of TO’s top DJs, an intimate performance by Keith Richards daughter Alexandra, and catering by the hotel’s Scarpetta Restaurant, this is one event not to miss.

Also on tonight, the Fairmont Royal York is playing host to Love Her Toronto in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada. Emceed by Jessica Holmes of Royal Canadian Air Face and featuring a fashion show by Canadian label Judith and Charles, this is one stylish and swanky event that helps support a fantastic woman’s cause.

And now, let’s fast-forward to Friday. Grab an amazingly fresh and sophisticated meal at Nami on Adelaide Street. If you’ve never been, now’s as good a time as any to check this Japanese sushi resto out. Order up some deep fried oysters (Kaki Fry) and some red snapper from the grill bar (Robata) and relax in oriental splendor.

The 7th annual fundraiser gala for the Olive Branch for Children is Friday night in Vaughan. The gorgeous Bellevue Manor will host the event, with drinks, bites, and some inspiring stories from the Olive Branch for Children’s endeavours in Tanzania.

If you’re in more a rocker mood, check out Steam Whistle’s UNSIGNED #21 at the Brewery. Featuring Boys Who Say No, Luke Lalonde, and The Paint Movement, this indie music series is perfect for the beer-loving, music-proselytizing YP.

On Saturday morning grab a bite of brunch at Riverdale fave spot Lil’ Baci. Truffled eggs, pancetta ‘BLT’, and fine ‘zas are the cornerstone of the brunch menu. We’re salivating already…

The Outdoor Adventure Show kicks off this weekend at the International Centre in Mississauga. All outdoor travel junkies, hiking nuts, and camping lovers should attend and check out what’s new, see the deals, and gear up for the spring/summer/fall seasons.

More outdoor fun roams on Saturday. IceFest in Yorkville lines the streets with beautifully carved and immaculately presented ice sculptures that are both dazzling feats of creativity and enthralling acts of precision. Carving demonstrations, street performances, and more abound at this two-day fest, on Saturday and Sunday.

While in the Yorkville area, settle in for dinner at Creme Brasserie. French cuisine presides here and is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. Try the rillettes of salmon or the mussels marinara before an entree of Moroccan spiced crusted scallops. #NoshFriendly

The Good Shepherd Gala is Saturday night at the Paramount Conference and Event Venue in Woodbridge. Help raise funds for Good Shepherd Ministries that supports Toronto’s disadvantaged and homeless. A great philanthropic crowd always comes out for this one, so be sure to be part of the wondrous evening.

Sunday. Oscar Sunday, to be exact. It might be a good idea to grab a luxe brunch at Frank Restaurant in the AGO – try the brown butter pancakes, for reals – and then prep your grocery list/LCBO bubbly trek because you’re likely having an Oscar party, right?

If for some reason you’re not inclined to celeb it up Sunday night, get out your masquerade accoutrements and hit up the Rivoli for a Superhero Masquerade fundraiser in support of the Toronto Humane Society.

That’s your weekend round-up. Tweet us @NotableCA and let us know your picks for this weekend.

Photo courtesy Creme Brasserie