It wasn’t easy, but we did it — we officially made it to 2022! This New Year’s Eve may not be shaping up as we thought it would, but that doesn’t mean we should call off the celebrations altogether. There are still many ways to ring in the new year safely in the city and enjoy the first weekend of January. From waterfront fireworks to twinkling nature trails and stunning immersive art, there are plenty of activities to fill up your long weekend and keep those post-holiday blues at bay.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Toronto this weekend.
NEW YEAR’S FIREWORKS SHOW
What better way to welcome the new year than with a fireworks show? The city will put on a dazzling fireworks display for the first time since the pandemic at midnight on New Year’s Eve. The high-altitude display will be held at several locations along the waterfront and here are the best places to see the show.
Where: Waterfront
When: January 1st at 12 a.m.
IMMERSIVE KLIMT
A new immersive art experience has officially opened its doors in Toronto. Joining the ranks of Immersive Van Gogh and Beyond Monet is Immersive Klimt, a colourful new exhibition curated by the “world-renowned master of digital art” Italy’s Massimiliano Siccardi. Through vivid 360 projections, the revolutionary works of Gustav Klimt come to life all around you. Klimt is described as a “rebel, genius and legend” of a painter, and now you can be swept up in his electrifying world.
Where: 1 Yonge St
When: Until March 13th
THE FOREST OF HIKARI
This New Year’s Eve, Chotto Matte is transporting guests into a Japanese light festival fused with the Peruvian rainforest. The opulent dinner party will see the restaurant as it’s never been before. As you enjoy your Fuji blossom cocktail and dine on the deluxe sharing menu, you’ll be treated to “live immersive entertainment,” DJs, and a special keepsake to take home with you. A bottomless mimosa brunch will also be offered on the 31st for $65 per person.
Where: 161 Bay St
When: Friday, December 31st
Recent Posts
Canada’s fave Timbits of 2021 have been revealed & the Maritimes didn’t get the memo
Mysterious butter bandits are on the loose in Ontario after a massive Christmas heist
View this post on Instagram
BEYOND MONET
This breathtaking exhibit is now open for the first time in the world — here’s a sneak peek so you know exactly what to expect. Over 400 of Claude Monet’s works come alive before your eyes through vivid 360-degree displays that swirl all around you, enhanced by sound effects and music. Forget the world and get lost the mind and masterpieces of this great painter.
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St W
When: Until February 27th
PICASSO: PAINTING THE BLUE PERIOD
Joining the ranks of Monet and Van Gogh is Pablo Picasso, with a landmark celebration of his iconic modernist masterpieces. The Picasso exhibit now running at the AGO takes visitors through the early projects from his signature Blue Period with over 100 works sourced from 15 countries. You’ll get to experience the world as he interpreted it as a young artist in the early 1900s.
Where: 317 Dundas St W
When: Until January 16th
SKY SKATE TORONTO
Another season of skating in Toronto’s skies is about to begin. The popular Sky Skate rooftop rink at The Porch is opening up at the start of December and it’s one of the most picturesque spots in town for gliding under the stars. There are heaters all around the rink to make your skate a bit more comfortable, but you’ll definitely still want to dress for a typical Canadian winter night. You’ll also be able to warm up with a drink at the bar afterward!
Where: 250 Adelaide St. W
When: Until March 2022
WINTERLIT
Take a dreamy winter stroll under the stars and the glow of twinkling lights and campfires. This special experience is a great excuse to enjoy the fresh air and nature and snap some adorable photos while you’re at it. Enjoy the art installations displayed along the trail, live performers, food and beverages, and of course, breathtaking scenery.
Where: Mountsberg Conservation Area, 2259 Milburough Line
When: Until February 20th
View this post on Instagram
SNOW MAGIC
Something magical has arrived at Ontario Place and it’s like a snow globe come to life! Snow Magic is inviting you to “explore a wonder-filled adventure inspired by fire, ice, and light.” Drive your way through 1.7 km of magical sights, including 18 art installations, crystalline caverns, awe-inspiring creatures and “mysterious sights that only dreams are made of.”
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
When: Until January 16th
FAIRWAY OF LIGHTS
Take a stroll on a sparkling trail through the woods this weekend at the Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham. Pets are invited to enjoy the 1 km trail every Sunday this month. The walk takes about 45 minutes to complete, so be sure to dress warmly. There are plenty of spots to snap photos along the trail too. If you didn’t get enough twinkling lights and magical vibes in December, this is definitely the place to go!
Where: 10080 Kennedy Rd
When: Until January 30th
THE BENTWAY SKATE TRAIL
Toronto’s iconic skating trail under the Gardiner Expressway is open for the winter season. The 220 metre, figure 8 loop has skating lessons, rentals, sharpening services, special events, and art installations throughout the season. You can also warm up with a free hot chocolate every Thursday evening, but drinks are available for purchase on-site every day of the week.
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
When: Until February 21st
Have a great weekend and a happy New Year, Toronto!
