Six things to do in Toronto on the weekend of December 20–22
In this edition of The Weekender, a chance to get your pet’s picture taken with Santa, a winter solstice celebration in Kensington Market and four more things to do in Toronto this weekend.
Christmas Cookie Creation Kids aged eight to 12 can enjoy baking gingerbread cookies at Colborne Lodge, a historic 19th-century house-turned-museum. Guests can also tour the house and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and tales. Dec. 21–Dec. 22. $22.50. Colborne Lodge, 11 Colborne Lodge Drive, toronto.ca
Pet Photos with Santa at Winterfest
At the annual yuletide festival along the city’s waterfront, your pooch and kitty can take a snapshot with Saint Nick. Some of the proceeds go to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. Dec. 21. 11a.m.–6 p.m. $10 donation. Pawsway, 245 Queens Quay W., pawsway.ca
Kensington Market Winter Solstice (FREE!)
This annual lantern-lit walk through Kensington Market features live performances from local artists, and attendees are welcome to bring musical instruments and join in on the jam session. Dec. 21. Free. Kensington Market, Meet at the corner of Oxford St. and Augusta Ave. at 7 p.m., redpepperspectacle.wordpress.com
Peter Pan at Casa Loma
Kids can experience the classic tale about a boy who won’t grow up, told through a mash-up of traditional ballet, sword fighting and aerial dancing. The nimble cast includes Jeremy Nasmith, a former soloist at the National Ballet of Canada. Dec. 7–Dec 29. Performance is included in general admission $10–$18. Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace, casaloma.org
Poetry Slam
Similar to a dance off, this open-mic competition pits poets against one another. The winner is decided by audience reaction, so bring your outdoor voice. Dec. 22. $5. The Drake Underground, 1150 Queen St. W., thedrakehotel.ca
Holiday Classics 2013 at TIFF Bell Lightbox Brian Desmond Hurst’s 1951 adaptation of the Dickens classic A Christmas Carol is one of four old-school festive films playing at the TIFF Bell Lightbox this holiday season. Dec. 21–Dec. 22. Various showtimes. $8.50–$12. TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King St. W., tiff.net
