Toronto Weekender: May 16 through 20, 2013

It’s finally upon us. The long weekend we’ve all been waiting for has arrived. May 2-4 (though it falls on the 20th) signals the unofficial official launch to summer. Y’ready…? 

Thursday
The smokehouse trend keeps growing in the city with the recent opening of Marky and Sparky’s Smokehouse. The new spot is also part of the ever-expanding offerings in the Junction, and is dedicated to all things BBQ – ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and the delicious and hunger-inducing list goes on. Check it out and go Southern tonight. 

The 2nd Floor at 461 King West is a foosball lover’s paradise tonight as The Table pops up yet again. With music by DJ Plus, and hosted by Addominal, Rattle & Roll is a proper foosball tourney for everyone from amateurs to pros. 

Friday
Chef Bruce Woods’ departure from Modus a few months ago left many people wondering what his next step would be. The answer came with this week’s opening of Woods Restaurant. Taking over the space left in Colborne Lane’s wake, Woods Restaurant features a menu of sustainable and local Canadian fare. Check it out Friday night before the masses flock on over…

The first Toronto Pop Art: Pop Up Art Gallery is on Friday night at 431 Roncesvalles. Featuring the works of Montreal-based artist Antoine Tavaglione, this event is the perfect way to get into the art scene here in Toronto.

Switch will again be the place to be this Friday night (May 17) as we toast to Toronto’s latest and hottest bar-lounge at 55 Colborne Street. Renowned restaurateur and nightlife curator Hanif Harji has brought his magic touch into the space by offering a two-toned experience. Join us right after work at 5pm for happy hour before we take it up a notch at 11pm as the Munch n Sip half of the night concludes and moves into more of a lounge party atmosphere. Click here to RSVP. 

Saturday
There are two notable events going on today for both in-towners and those looking to get away. The first, ArtFest, takes over the Distillery District for a multi-day blowout of the coolest artists and artisans Canada has to offer. With over 85 talents showcasing their creations, there’s no doubt you’ll find some awesome wares to take home. 

Want a li’l getaway? Head to Peller Estates Winery for Food Truck Eats. With over 20 of Canada’s and the States’ top food trucks gathered around the winery to tantalize your tastebuds, this ultimate backyard bash is one not to miss. The best part? You’ll be in wine country, so taking a jaunt to another sweet winery is easy as pie.

Party with Canada’s sexiest ladies at CUBE on Saturday for the official Miss Universe Canada 2013 launch. Yes, you’ll get to meet and greet the contestants, snap pics, order up bottles of Belvedere, and spend the night in the company of the best and brightest babes we’ve got in the Great White North.

Sunday
Refresh your wardrobe for summer at the Community Clothing Swap at Brick Works on Sunday. In case you’re unaware, clothing swaps are becoming the new a la mode in the city, allowing you to get your hands on some top merch while clearing your closet of your no-longer-cool-to-you duds. 

Get ready to groove at the official pre-launch of the Digital Dreams Festival at Maison Mercer on Sunday night. With Dubfire laying down the beats, this party is sure to kick your long weekend into overdrive. The best part? You’ll get to reserve your typical Sunday Caesars for Monday morning. Gotta love that extra day off! 

Next door to Maison at Buonanotte, the restaurant hosts a ‘Long Weekend Sunday,’ party for all the long weekend city dwellers, with DJ MKUTZ and no shortage of pretty young party people. 

Looking for something a bit more laid back? Party like it’s the early 90s at the May 2-4 Kegger at Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. Paired with a screening of Dazed and Confused, this Sunday party is like a killer college throwback.

Monday
Ah, Victoria Day, aka our current best friend. From the Brewer’s Backyard at Brick Works, to Victoria Day with Lady A (Lady Antebellum), to Electric Island on, naturally, the Island, there’s a slew of great events to keep your weekend moving and grooving. 

Top photo courtesy The Table