We’ve reached that point in the week where one’s mind wanders to carefree pursuits beyond the office walls. In this edition, we’ve mapped out a battle plan for finding unique holiday gifts, found an epic comedy showcase (and a great concert series) to keep your spirits up, and point you towards two very fashionable pop-ups to help outfit you for the coming chill.
Toronto Young Designers Holiday 2013
When: Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Brassaii, 461 King Street West
Details: Enjoy brunch at Brassaii while supporting 19 of the city's hottest designers handpicked by Toronto Young Designers founder Rebecca Goodman. Be sure to check out the furniture and serving pieces from Story Board Furniture, featuring material from “ill-fated” trees, and Keaton and Co.’s custom embroidered totes, pillows, aprons, and table linens.
Holiday Art Market at the Artscape Wychwood Barns
When: Dec. 8, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 601 Christie Street
Details: Track down that bespoke gift for the hard-to-buy-for on your list while sipping a mug of cocoa. There's plenty on offer at the Wychwood Barns this Sunday, from ceramics to paintings, plus a massive Christmas tree that will likely put yours to shame.
The Superstars of Comedy
When: Dec. 7, 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Where: Comedy Bar, 945 Bloor St. West
Details: This isn't your run-of-the-mill evening at a comedy club—we're talking about some of Toronto’s finest here. K Trevor Wilson will headline. He’s opened for Louis CK and Sarah Silverman (you may have heard of them). Pat MacDonald and Ryan Horwood are also performing—we’re not sure who they’ve opened up for, but they’re probably very funny.
Firsthand Fair
When: Dec. 7 and 8
Where: Sneaky Dee’s, 431 College St.
Details: If you like the idea of unique and crafty gifts, but would prefer to peruse with a pint in hand, check out the Firsthand Fair. It’s like Etsy exploded into a bar. Plus, this event supports Sketch, a community arts initiative for homeless or at-risk youth in Toronto.
18 Waits Pop-up Shop and Sale
When: Dec. 5 to Dec 11, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 134 Ossington Ave.
Details: If you feel like you’d be at home in a Parisian café, an old English pub, or '20s speakeasy, do we have a pop-up store for you. 18 Waits makes their menswear the old-fashioned way, perfect for the stylish gent on your shopping list. Ronnie Wood from a little band called the Rolling Stones wears their gear. We’re just saying.
Canon Blanc Pop-Up
When: Dec. 7 to Dec. 22
Where: 2624 Yonge St.
Details: Canon Blanc is catering to Parisian fashion fans north of Bloor with a pre-Christmas pop-up. You can expect the same eye for style present at their Queen West location, with shoes, winter wear, and jewellery culled from Paris' finest young designers, and a selection of French menswear, as well. You'll also find perfect holiday gifts in the form of candles and perfumes.
Juno Concert Series
When: Dec. 7
Where: Horseshoe Tavern, 370 Queen St. West
Details: In celebration of this year's Juno-hosting city, the legendary Horseshoe Tavern will be home to "Songs from Winnipeg," a concert series paying tribute to Winnipeg songwriters and performers. Attendees can look forward to seeing artists such as Daniel Greaves (of The Watchmen), Nikki Yanofsky (vocalist of the memorable "I Believe" theme song for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games), Miranda Mulholland (of Great Lake Swimmers), and The Strumbellas. Advance tickets are $20 and can be bought online, or at the Horseshoe, Soundscapes, or Rotate This.
