It’s the last weekend for you to indulge in all-things holidays, before the world returns to its regularly scheduled programming. But even with the holiday cheer in the rearview mirror, there are plenty of events to keep you entertained on the first weekend of the new year.
Friday, Jan. 2
Walterstock 4
Where: The Rockpile Bar & Nighclub
When: Doors open 12 p.m.
Price: $28.75 (incl. fees)
This Friday is the kickoff party for Walterstock 4 – an all-ages charitable event where all proceeds goes to MusiCounts, a Canadian music education charity, and The Cabbagetown Community Arts Centre. The lineup includes Devilz by Definition, Once Before I Die, Rejected By Aliens, freeloader, Knights Gate, and Rocket88. You can purchase your ticket on ticketweb.
One Day Workshop: Bead Embroidery (18+)
Where: Craft & Design Studio at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West)
When: 1 p.m.
Price: $150 (incl. All materials)
Explore patterns, textures and colours at this one-day workshop led by the centre’s textile artist-in-residence, Khadija Aziz. All materials are included and no experience is necessary but it’s advised attendees are comfortable working with fine thread, small needles, and tiny beads. See if this event is right for you or secure your seat on the Harbourfront Centre website.
Distillery Winter Village
Where: Distillery District (55 Mill St.)
When: Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Price: $15 + tax, kids under 9 free
Miss Christmas already? It’s the final weekend to take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Toronto’s iconic Distillery District. And just because the next Christmas is over 360 days away doesn’t mean you can’t sip on mulled wine while you shop (for some past-due gifts, maybe?) and pretend for one day that its spirit still lingers.
Saturday, Jan. 3
Toronto Raptors vs. Atlanta Hawks
Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St.)
When: 7:30 p.m.
Price: Starting at $80
The country’s favourite basketball team is taking on the Atlanta Hawks this Saturday. Earlier this week, Raptors’ Scottie Barnes achieved the first 20-point, 20-rebound triple-double in franchise history, so this may be the chance to witness history as the team rides on the momentum. Check out which tickets are available on Ticketmaster.
The High Loves w/ Weekend Goodbye & BBQ Pope (19+)
Where: Lee’s Palace (529 Bloor St. W)
When: 8 p.m.
Price: $5
Toronto-based Rock & Roll band The High Loves are back with $5 concerts at Lee’s Palace. If you’re an O.G. fan, this is your lucky day. This up-and-coming band’s signature high-energy rock and roll will only be complimented by the no-bs Weekend Goodbye and indie punk-rock BBQ Pope. You can snag your tickets on ticketweb.
John Digweed (19+)
Where: CODA (794 Bathurst St.)
When: 10 p.m.
Price: $70.13 (incl. tax & fees)
Get your dance on at DJ John Digweed’s only Toronto show this time around. With a loyal fanbase of House music lovers, Digweed is a seasoned disc jockey, having scored two Top 30 hits in ‘97 in the United Kingdom and being voted as the number one DJ in DJ Mag in the early 2000’s. He has a roster of music festivals under his belt, including Miami’s Ultra Music Festival, Amsterdam’s Loveland Festival, and Toronto’s Electric Island. You can purchase the tickets on ticketweb.
Sunday, Jan. 4
Mayor’s Skating Party
Where: Nathan Phillips Square, Colonel Samuel Smith Park, North Toronto Memorial Community Centre, and McCown District Park
When: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Price: Free
If gliding on the ice with the mayor of Canada’s biggest city and the members of its council is on your bucket list for 2026, this Sunday is your day. Free skate rentals and hot chocolate will be available while supplies last.
Darkfield (last day) (13+)
Where: STACKT Market
When: Multiple time slots available
Price: Starting at $22
DARKFIELD has been the talk of the town since it landed in Toronto in early October. The short yet intense collection of multi-sensory audio experiences are designed to take your senses beyond their limits as you explore the boundaries of human perception. What is real? What is not? Where am I? Does it matter? This is your last chance to find out, in total darkness. There are two experiences available: FLIGHT and SÉANCE.
Toronto Marlies v Lehigh Valley Phantoms
Where: Coca-Cola Coliseum (19 Nunavut Rd.)
When: 4 p.m.
Price: Starting at $27.25
‘Tis the season for pucks on ice. The Marlies (the Leafs’ primary development team) will hit the ice against the Phantoms from Philadelphia. They may be sitting at a precarious fourth position in the North Division in the American Hockey League right now, but perhaps with your attendance heating up the bleachers at the Coca-Cola Coliseum this Sunday, things may look up for them. Grab your tickets on Ticketmaster.
