The weekend is fast approaching. Even if you've already dedicated yourself to watching the Olympics, let us help you fill up the rest of your schedule and diffuse the inevitable pent-up energy from watching that biathlon event. In this week's installment, we present you with a Black History Month celebration, a Valentine’s Day-themed flea market, jazz music from a Cuban-Canadian pianist, a Latke competition, and the Long Winter party.
Kuumba
When: Feb. 7-9
Where: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West)
Details: Kuumba is Harbourfront Centre’s weekend-long celebration of Black History Month. Highlighting local and international artists from African and Caribbean communities, the weekend will be filled with comedy, dancing, film showings, panel discussions, workshops, and family activties.
Annex Flea: Valentine’s Edition
When: Feb. 9, 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Centre for Social Innovation (720 Bathurst Street)
Details: Like most celebrated days, Valentine’s Day can be a commercialism overload. So why not switch things up a bit this year and find that perfect gift for your significant other at the Annex Flea Market. Showcasing Toronto’s best vintage and handmade goods, you’re bound to find that special something to represent your undying love.
The Art of the Piano: David Virelles
When: Feb. 7, 8 pm
Where: Gallery 345 (345 Sorauren Avenue)
Details: Enjoy an evening of jazz performed by Cuban born pianist and composer David Virelles. Recently named one of four young pianists on the rise by the New York Times, Virelles has performed and recorded with an array of artists. In 2006, he won the Grand Prix de Jazz Award at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Tickets are $20 and seating is first come, first served.
Caplansky’s 4th Annual Latkepalooza Competition
When: Feb. 9, 6 pm
Where: Caplansky’s Delicatessen (356 College St.)
Details: For all fried potato pancake enthusiasts, this is the event you’ve been waiting for. Caplanky’s competition is back to determine once again who makes Toronto’s best latke. Attend as a competitor (you’ll need to make five dozen of your best work) or taster (you should probably wear sweat pants). Apple sauce and sour cream will be provided.
Long Winter
When: Feb. 7
Where: The Great Hall (1087 Yonge St.)
Details: Want a distracton from the cold and snow with a cultural edge? Long Winter is here to help. The all-ages party is back at The Great Hall and ready to rage past curfew. Immerse yourself in music, art, readings, dance and a live, on-stage speed dating event. A split 7” record featuring Teenanger and HSY will be available exclusively to the first 350 people through the doors. Admission is PWYC.
