It’s the first weekend of November and we’re off to a pretty stellar start. There’s a whole lot going on around the city right now, including our very first Christmas market of the season. It’s going to be chilly out there, so it’s the perfect time to stay warm and check out an indoor art exhibit, an immersive experience, or work up a sweat at a Squid Game fitness challenge. It’s time to let loose and have some fun, Toronto.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around the city this weekend.

WIZARDS FESTIVAL

Something magical is coming our way this weekend and you’ll want to have your wand and spellbook at the ready. A Wizards Festival is taking place near Toronto this November, complete with a bewitching train ride adventure on the Hallows Express. Come dressed in your Hogwarts attire for a fun-filled day of interactive shows, potions classes, an ancient cursed maze, magic shows, and more. The fun continues as you embark on a thrilling journey on a train, where you’ll be tasked with a mission worthy of Harry Potter himself.

Where: 19 Railway St, Uxbridge
When: November 6th — November 7th

SQUID GAME FITNESS CHALLENGE

Think you have what it takes to become the next winner of Squid Game? Pretty soon, you’ll be able to put your skills to the test in a series of challenges inspired by the show, hosted by Fit Factory Fitness in Toronto. The games will begin on November 6th and will run over 6 weekends at both the downtown and midtown locations. Get ready to give it all you’ve got because these challenges “will put you through the ultimate test.”

Where: 161 Eglinton Ave E & 373 King St W
When: November 6th — December 12th

THE BENTWAY CHRISTMAS MARKET

Get your holiday shopping on extra early this year at this free Christmas market with over 70 artisan vendors. Shop for handmade items, clothing, decor, art, and more as you dance along to the live DJ show. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll have tons of food options to choose from too. It’s all happening at The Bentway under the Gardiner Expressway!

Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
When: November 6th, 11 a.m. — 5 p.m.

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POUTINE FESTIVAL

The title pretty much says it all. Come hungry and get ready to feast on all the squeaky cheese, fries, and gravy you can handle at this free festival. Whether you’d prefer to eat it with a fork or topped on a pizza, you’ll be gobbling up every last bite of this Canadian comfort food staple. There will be tons of vendors to try, so prepare for a feast unlike any other.

Where: 520 Progress Ave
When: November 6th — November 7th

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 16, 2022

TOUCH

This interactive performance is a combination of powerful projections and superb live dance. It dives into the relationship between two people as they move through the stages of their interactions. It’s described as a deeply moving performance that’ll give you goosebumps the whole way through. The show has been extended through November 7th and the long weekend is a great opportunity to check it out.

Where: 1 Yonge St
When: Until November 7th

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: Various times

‘IGLOOSIVE EXPERIENCE’ AT PROOF BAR

Toronto’s popular dining domes have returned for the season. You’ll find them just steps from Bloor in the heart of Yorkville at Proof Bar. You’ll get to stay cozy while still enjoying the outdoors in your very own transparent bubble. You can choose between the white, red, purple or blue dome depending on your vibe. Reservations are being accepted for the winter season right now!

Where: 220 Bloor St W
When: Opens November 4th

BUG LAB IMMERSIVE EXHIBITION

A one-of-a-kind exhibition has arrived at the Ontario Science Centre! Wander through a surreal world filled with giant, ultra-realistic models of bugs while you learn about the profound impact that insects have on our lives. The exhibit is both a fascinating and beautiful experience suitable for all ages, so if it’s been a minute since you’ve paid a visit to the Science Centre, this is your excuse!

Where: 770 Don Mills Rd
When: Until April 2, 2022

TORONTO RAPTORS VS. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

The Raptors are back on home soil and they’re inviting fans at full capacity to cheer in the stands. After missing out on live sports for 18 months straight, the energy this season is sure to be higher than ever. There’s nothing quite like the electrifying energy of a packed arena, especially when we take the W!

Where: Scotiabank Arena, 40 Bay St
When: November 5th at 7:30 PM

Have a wonderful weekend, Toronto!