The holidays are officially over, but we have good news: the weekend is very nearly here. For those of you who aren't too tuckered out by the not-too-distant memory of New Year's revelry (and not yet ready to succumb to the January lure of pyjamas and Netflix), we'd like to get your new year off to a good start with a film festival, an art gallery party, and the return of a monthly food and installation series.
AGO 1st Thursdays Long Winter Takeover
When: Jan. 2, 7 p.m.
Where: AGO, 317 Dundas St. W.
Details: Merging two beloved monthly series—AGO 1st Thursdays and Long Winter—this evening will take over the various galleries with tunes from Doom Squad and DJ Stelmanis (Katie Stelmanis of Austra), as well as interactive art installations, an art bazaar, and Moroccan food. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.
The Wanderer Show
When: Jan. 2, 7:30 and 9 p.m.
Where: Tallboys, 838 Bloor St. W.
Details: Do you like magic? What about magic enjoyed alongside a frosty pint of craft beer? Harry Zimmerman is bringing his sleight of hand tonight to Tallboys, in two shows hosting just 30 audience members—meaning you can get up close and personal. Tickets are $15.
Canada's Bridal Show
When: Jan. 3-5
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W.
Details: Nothing cheers up the glum chill of the winter months like a proposal, and we're sure many men have taken a knee in the name of love over the holiday season. But what's next? Dip your toe into the madness of wedding planning at this weekend's bridal show, complete with prizes, celebrity guests, and a Mona Richie bridal gown sale. Tickets are $20 (or $45 for a VIP ticket).
Canada's Top Ten Film Festival
When: Jan. 3-12
Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King St. W.
Details: "10 Films. 10 Days. $10 a ticket." Easy enough to remember, right? Beginning this weekend, TIFF is spotlighting both Canadian feature and short films. Over the past 13 years, the festival has included noteworthy films such as Rebelle and Sarah Polley's Stories We Tell.
Feast in the East
When: Jan. 4, 8 p.m.
Where: Gerrard Art Space, 1390 Gerrard St. E.
Details: The monthly event series that marries food, music, and art is back for the new year. Saturday's show will feature a Japanese noodle bowl dinner courtesy of Daniel Goodbaum, while music will be provided by Mimico, Bella Akira, and New Fries. Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 in advance.
