Opening up 3 floors of the Design Exchange, the annual DX Intersection gala is a top must-attend event and you have to attend to really appreciate it. For a gala focusing on design, art, and entertainment, it’s appreciated when the food and cocktails are on-par or better than other similar galas. This year was a supermarket-themed event with fresh flowers and fruits given out. Highlights included: Live musical entertainment included Azari and Third Art installations by Castor Design, Common Good, and Design Exchange Gamechangers of 2013, Byron and Dexter Peart of WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie The Historic Trading Floor’s ceiling was the canvas for a video installation, blending traditional video projection and lighting, with 3D mapping technology Molecular cocktails by Bevlabs Top notch food by Food Dudes, Parts and Labour, La Carnita and Home of the Brave, with Milke Bau and Solid Design & Build and much more Proceeds from the annual fundraising evening go to support DX Youth and Educational Programming. For more information visit www.dx.org Some tweets from the evening: #dxintersection is now trending in #Toronto http://t.co/4dzdRjpaPw — Trendsmap Toronto (@TrendsToronto) October 19, 2013 At annual fund-raiser @DesignExchange #DXintersection About to be announced that I'll be curating an exhibit here next year! — Jeanne Beker (@Jeanne_Beker) October 19, 2013 Spotted at #DXIntersection: Castor Design's electromagnetic light installation. pic.twitter.com/P6xbnKun9S — Azure Magazine (@AzureMagazine) October 19, 2013 This Harvest Wallbanger by @tagvodka is delicious. Cinnamon makes a great garnish! #DXINTERSECTION pic.twitter.com/RTPmnyJFPh — Design Exchange (@DesignExchange) October 19, 2013 @DesignExchange thank you for hosting a beautiful night! exhilarating vibe. brilliant people. pic.twitter.com/s8eSMDvxYA — Hulz (@Hulz_) October 22, 2013 RELATED ARTICLES At the Power Ball: 15 Minutes of Fame party for The Power Plant Gallery Luminato Festival’s Big Bang Bash gala featuring Dolls by Viktor&Rolf Luminato Yves Saint Laurent party
Film festival fans can rejoice! Take note of the free public screenings of the annual (and proudly Canadian) enRoute Film Festival. A free public screening of the nominated short films will take place on Wednesday, November 6 at the Varsity Cinema (55 Bloor St. W., Toronto) from 7 to 8 p.m. ET. An exclusive awards celebration will take place at the Panorama Bar immediately after the screening. The awards ceremony will be hosted by Lainey Lui and etalk Canada, and for the first time ever the announcements will be streamed live on enRoutefilm.com at 9 p.m. The 2013 Air Canada enRoute Film Festival Award Nominees are: Sophie Jarvis and Kane Stewart for The Worst Day Ever Andrew Moir for Just As I Remember Eileen Peng for Godfather Death Roman Tchjen and Vaishni Majoomdar for Walk the Moon R.S.V.P. for the awards ceremony on the Facebook page here. There also happens to be an exclusive screening of the films and a discussion panel at the Phi Centre in Montreal on November 4th and you’re invited. Millions of Air Canada passengers have had the chance to view the short films on their personal seatback in-flight entertainment system, as well as online at enRoutefilm.com. Voting for the People’s Choice Awards ends on October 31st. Here’s the quick trailer for the Air Canada enRoute film festival
Halloween is coming up fast! Here’s some of the things to do this Halloween in Toronto on October 31st and prior to that as well. Let us know if there’s anything you would like to see added in the comments below. Canada’s Wonderland Halloween Haunt On every weekend night (Oct 24, 25, 26, and 27th), Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a fun, horror-filled nightmare. From mazes with terrifying creatures around every corner to thrill rides that’ll haunt your dreams, it’s everything you fear and can’t wait to experience. Tickets and more info here https://www.canadaswonderland.com/haunt Toronto Zombie Walk, Saturday Oct 26th. On Saturday night, zombies will flock to Nathan Phillips Square to partake in the annual Toronto Zombie Walk. In fact, stars from the Evil Dead Musical (see below) will be participating as well. More info here www.torontozombiewalk.ca MOVIES AND THEATRE Evil Dead Musical The musical based on the cult classic Sam Raimi films is back and special performances have been slated for October 31 at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. If you dare, sit in Splatter Zone, the ultimate destination for flying limbs, rolling heads and gushing (fake) blood. Splatter zone tickets are so hot that all Splatter Zone seats for the first four weeks of the run were sold out within 20 minutes of being on sale. To accommodate ticket demand, the Splatter Zone capacity has been expanded to include 60 seats. For tickets and more info visit http://evildeadthemusical.com/toronto/ 360 Screenings Each 360 Screenings event is a unique, customized live movie experience with inspired cinematic experiences have played to sold out audiences for Fight Club, Ghost, 28 Days Later and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, each receiving rave reviews. Buzzfeed Location: Undisclosed Toronto location, revealed 24 hours in advance Friday, October 25th at 11:00 pm Saturday, October 26th at 2:00 pm Saturday, October 26th at 7:00 pm (each screening offers the same interactive experience) Cost: $60 – Regular, $40 – Arts Workers/under 30. Cash bar. Tickets: http://360screenings.com/October2013 PARTIES Halloween at Burroughes Halloween at Burroughes is thrown by Oxford Beach every year and it’s back again. Here’s the link to the Facebook event with ticket info: https://www.facebook.com/events/459670437480987/ Also check out the video from last year’s Halloween at the Burroughes 2012. Liberty Grand Halloween Haunt Toronto’s biggest Halloween party is back at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex on Thursday October 31st, 2013. Join thousands to celebrate the most exciting event of the year. Be prepared to sport your best costume as Liberty Grand transforms into a Halloween playground with state of the art production and sound and a roster of top International and local DJs. Admission is $25. For more details visit www.libertyhalloween.com Halloween Homecoming November 1st at The Castlefield (formerly Capitol Event Theatre) by Oxford Beach. www.halloweenhomecoming.passbeat.com TREATS For kids: Free Halloween froyo from Yogurty’s Celebrate Halloween at Yogurty’s with FREE froyo®* for little ghosts and goblins on October 31 (*store staff will hand out 6oz / 170gr cups to kids under 10 years old wearing a costume or mask, limit 1 cup per child). For more info visit www.Yogurtys.com
Yes, Microsoft’s new Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 do still need a mouse. But not just any mouse will do. How about Joel Thomas Zimmerman? AKA deadmau5! Our hometown, world-renowed EDM producer was tapped by Microsoft for the Canadian launch of their new tablets at the KoolHaus for a surprise show. All day long Microsoft street teams wandered downtown Toronto to demo the new tablets and give out wristbands for the launch event. Two-hundred fifty wristbands were also won via contests through social media outlets Twitter and Facebook. Many people also lined up, some for several hours, before the show, to get one of the coveted wristbands. No doubt, the software giant is targeting the younger demographic by choosing deadmau5. Zimmerman put on a heart-pounding, energy-filled ninety minute set to the delight of the glowstick-sporting crowd. What about the tablets? No they don’t actually require a mouse, but you can use one if you want to. The Surface 2 is faster, lighter, has more battery life and a higher resolution than its predecessor. The hardware looks sleeker with the new magnesium finish, and the built-in kickstand now opens at two positions. At an entry level price of $449, it’s also less expensive than the original Surface. The Surface Pro 2, on the other hand, attempts to bridge the tablet and laptop worlds. With a more powerful processor and more storage, it is capable of running full desktop-level applications. Its starting price is $899. Both tablets come preloaded with Microsoft’s newest version of its operating system, Windows 8.1 (RT version for the Surface 2), which has a host of usability improvements, and better integration of Microsoft services such as its app and music stores, cloud services, and Bing search. Microsoft Office is also pre-installed. The tablets are now available for pre-order, with in-store availability beginning October 22. Windows 8.1 launched on October 17, 2013 Photos from the launch party by Nick Lee except where indicated Our full gallery here Here is the Microsoft Surface 2 commercial RELATED ARTICLES The latest in Samsung TVS: UHD and Curved OLED with Multi View Photos from the Samsung Galaxy S4 Preview Party with Walk off the Earth, Feist
UPDATE: Thank you for all the contest entries via Facebook and bonus ballots via Twitter! And now we are glad to have selected these 5 winners. We have contacted them and await email confirmation before finalizing them as winners: Lillian T. Dennis P. Rachel C. Katrina S. Shannon S. We’ve teamed up with Captain Morgan to give away FIVE pairs of tickets to Captain Morgan’s exclusive Rock the Boat party taking place at the Phoenix Concert Theatre on November 8th! The night will include a live performance by Juno-award winning artist, Classified, multiple interactive experiences, samplings of Captain & Cola… and so much more! For a chance to win a pair of tickets you must enter through our Facebook registration form. For a BONUS entry via Twitter, tweet “@BestofTorontoTV I want to win tickets to Rock the Boat with #CaptainMorgan #CaptainRocks http://on.fb.me/1cD4KBf“. Contest ends November 1st at 2:00pm. Best for GTA residents. No transportation provided. No cash value. Valid ID required, must be 19+ to attend. Good luck and hope to see you there!
At last, Toronto has a refreshing new tourist attraction in the form of Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada conveniently located near the CN Tower and the Rogers Centre. With over 16,000 marine animals and 450 different species of fish and invertebrates (and one species of reptile – the sea turtles), this is a monumental attraction that must be seen to be believed. DANGEROUS LAGOON One of the main attractions is definitely the “Dangerous Lagoon”, with a glass viewing tunnel the length of a football field. Inside the tunnel there’s a moving glide-path sidewalk so you can choose to walk or stand under the swimming sharks, green sea turtles, sawfish, and moray eels. PLANET JELLIES Another big attraction is the wall of jellyfish (Pacific sea nettle) that are illuminated in various colours including a vibrant, bright red. The words mesmerizing and hypnotizing are used to describe the experience here. They’re contained in the world’s largest kreisel tank. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS OF RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada boasts to have the biggest shark collection in North America, one of the world’s most extensive jelly fish exhibits, 100+ year old giant lobsters, extremely rare electric blue lobsters, sting ray and bamboo shark touch pools and frequent daily live diving shows. It was fun to sit beside all the children and watch the diver feed the sting rays. So there’s plenty to see that will satisfy guests young, old and everyone in between. Ripley’s Aquarium is expected to draw in over 2 million visitors per year. Be sure to check it out! Here’s some quick facts about Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Over 16,000 marine animals Includes 450 species of fish and invertebrates and one species of reptile (sea turtle) 5.7 million litres of water 12,500 sq m (135,000 sq. ft) 50 live exhibits 97 Life Support System pumps Over 100 interactive displays Marine and freshwater habitats from around the world 6 play zones for children including Ripley’s explorer research submarine Ripley’s Café and Cargo Hold Gift Shop Ticket prices start from $29.98 for Adults, $19.98 for Youths and Seniors, and $9.98 for Children (Ages 3-5). Children ages 2 and under receive complimentary admission when accompanied by an adult. In comparison the annual prices are a great deal and I would recommend it. The good news is that you can use the admission of a single-day ticket towards an annual pass later, so you don’t have to commit before checking it out! Adult Annual Pass: $100.00 Youth Annual Pass (ages 6-13): $60.00 Child Annual Pass (ages 3-5): $25.00 Senior Annual Pass (ages 65+): $60.00 Check out Toronto Star’s video about the Ripley’s Aquarium opening ABOUT THE RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA TEAM Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is also home to a highly-experienced animal husbandry team of more than 20 marine biologists and aquarists. Under the leadership of Director of Husbandry, Andy Dehart, the team is responsible for the long-term care of the animals in the exhibit, as well as overseeing water chemistry, animal nutrition, and animal enrichment. The Aquarium strictly adheres to the standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, wildlife conservation, scientific research, education, staffing, and safety, as regulated by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA). For more information, visit www.ripleysaquariumofcanada.com More photos from the grand opening here
It was a unique way to celebrate the 2014 Cadillac CTS debut to Canada which involved using a crane to hoist one of these cars up to the third-story terrace of Shangri-La Hotel. Industry, media, bloggers and socialites came out to the launch for the latest iteration of Cadillac’s mid-size luxury sedan. The evening featured champagne, an icebar of oysters, cocktails by Barchef, Ossington’s Philip Sparks making custom bow-ties on site for guests to take home and much more. It was great to be able to rub elbows with General Motors representatives and the auto media folk. The 2014 Cadillac CTS version aims to be sportier than before by being lower and also longer and lighter resulting in a closer to 50/50 weight balance. The base MSRP starts at about $50,895 and the 3.6L V6 RWD twin-turbo starts at $74,495. For more info visit www.cadillac.ca More photos here Check out this instagram video of the Cadillac being lifted by a crane onto the Shangri-La rooftop terrace. Flying car, believe it. @cadillac #CTSReveal Launch Event @MacLaren_McCann @ShangriLaTO pic.twitter.com/A3rs1r22X9 — CANDICEandALISON.com (@CANDICE_ALISON) October 8, 2013 What a great event for the #CTSReveal @ShangriLaTO! @CANDICE_ALISON @GMCanada http://t.co/3KE8MllhmR — Shangri-La Toronto (@ShangriLaTO) October 9, 2013 Video of the Cadillac CTS being hoisted by Dwight Crane Ltd The all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS #CTSReveal http://t.co/D8YZPeD3F3 — KeriBlog (@KeriBlog) October 9, 2013
Remember, tickets are available online or by phone until 12pm. After 12, tickets will be available at the door only. http://t.co/iYSAOM5esK — Eat to the Beat (@EattotheBeat_TO) October 22, 2013 In it’s 18th year, Eat to the Beat is set to be another superb foodie extravaganza with 60 female chefs in support of women with breast cancer. With each of these 60 chefs having their own booth, guests get to try an extraordinary variety of amazing culinary delights. You will get full pretty fast if you’re not careful. So be sure to come hungry. It all takes place at Roy Thompson Hall on Tuesday, Oct 22nd at 7pm. Tickets are still on sale for $175 (tax receipt), which is very much worth it for the amazing food & beverage experience, the live entertainment, silent auction, raffle, and of course the opportunity to support women with breast cancer. Here’s some of the participating chefs: Linda Haynes (Ace Bakery); Nicole Rumball (All the Best Fine Foods); Vanessa Yeung (Aphrodite Cooks); Leyla K (Art Square Gallery & Café); Arvinda & Preena Chauhan (Arvinda’s Healthy Gourmet Indian Cooking); Jennifer Perusini (BerBer Lounge); Cynthia Beretta (Beretta Farms Inc.); Karen Rachlin (Bite Catering); Melissa Fox-Revett and Julia Young (Blue Plate); Vanessa Le Page (The Cake Lady – Edible Art); Joanne Lusted (Clean Eating Magazine); Anna Janes (Cocomira Confections); Cathy Beneway (Creative Catering by Cathy); Chef Véronique (Crêpes à GoGo); Trish Sheen (Crush Wine Bar); Brenda Kwong Hing (Delicious! Catering); Dufflet Rosenberg (Dufflet Pastries); Lili Sullivan and Kimberly Humby (East & Main Bistro); Cynthia Peters (From the Farm Cooking School); Katherine Hall and Kitt Ritchie (Hall’s Kitchen Inc.); Jayne Dunsmore (Jayne’s Gourmet Catering); Nuit Regular (Khao San Road); Elaine Wong (The King Edward Hotel); Lisa Shamai (lisa shamai cuisinière), Kyla Eaglesham (Madeleines, Cherry Pie and Ice Cream); Eden Hertzog (New Moon Kitchen); Mali Fernandez (Pachuco ModMEx Restaurant); Joan Monfaredi (Park Hyatt Hotel); Robyn Perlmutar (Pauline’s Pastries); Rossy Earle (Pimentón Spanish and Mediterranean Fine Foods); Emily Richards and Tina Fernandes (Professional Home Economist); Jacqueline Lo (Ruelo Patisserie); Alexandra Feswick, Samuel J. Moore and Lindsay Haddock (Scaramouche Restaurant); Angela Panigas (Sultan’s Tent); Michelle Edgar (Sweet Escape Patisserie); Alida Solomon (Tutti Matti); Karen Viva-Haynes (Viva Tastings); Wanda Beaver (Wanda’s Pie in the Sky); Catherine O’Donnell (Willow Cakes and Pastries) and many more. “Eat to the Beat is a mecca for urban foodies, and those who want to be, to experience the best Ontario’s culinary scene has to offer,” states Barbara Track, Eat to the Beat Chair “It is the only event in Canada that exclusively features the talent of 60 female chefs – women supporting women, it doesn’t get any better than that and it’s an evening that should not be missed!” For full details visit www.eattothebeat.ca Check out our photos from last year’s Eat to the Beat 2012 Here’s a video from Eat to the Beat 2011: ABOUT WILLOW BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Willow Breast Cancer Support Canada is a national not-for-profit organization that provides free support and information today for those who cannot wait for tomorrow’s cure. Click here to learn more.
Following in the footsteps of last year’s grand charity party, this 4th installment of Three to Be’s annual charity gala was a blast with tear-jerking speeches as well as non-stop entertainment and activities, great food, great vibes packed with 1,000 people at Muzik. It’s always a well-attended, highly-anticipated soiree with this year’s theme of “Just Be Love”. This year’s headlining performers, Salt-N-Pepa, did not disappoint at all with the same incredible energy that I remember from last year with Naughty by Nature. And it was great to see that even after the energetic duo left the stage this charity party went late into the night with more live entertainment, dancing and laughs. Kudos to the team for another extraordinary event and raising over $500,000 for children with neurological disorders. Highlights from the evening included violinist extraordinaire Yosvani Castañeda, live paintings on stage by Jessgo, dance performance by members of Pussycat Dolls, the one and only Salt-N-Pepa, Sole Power dance performance and so much more. Guests in attendance included the hosts Leslie Roberts and Liza Fromer as well as Michael Landsberg, Kenny Hotz and Mike Chalut. ABOUT THREE TO BE THREE TO BE’s mission is to advocate and raise funds to support and advance the development of innovative research, education and therapies for children with neurological disorders. THREE TO BE Is a registered charitable foundation providing funds to support a multidisciplinary approach for children with neurological conditions. THREE TO BE’s funds are being used to: Support the neurological research community by funding salaries, grants, and prizes to develop cutting-edge therapies and treatments for children Purchase innovative therapeutic equipment for rehabilitative purposes Support educational programs, conferences, and facilities that focus on the development of children with disabilities Develop a parent resource and information platform to support families of children with neurological disorders For more information, please visit www.threetobe.org Check out the video from the amazing evening by Gold Line studios: RELATED ARTICLES Three to Be: Stems of Hope Gala: Heroes Among Us Artbound with Naughty by Nature
The highly anticipated Chefs Challenge is back in its 4th edition! Mark your calendars for February 8, 2014 as the charismatic, internationally-renowned culinary mega-Chef Giada De Laurentiis headlines this epic foodie event in support of Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary. You could be cooking alongside superstar chefs such as Giada if you’re a top 50 fundraiser with a minimum of $2,500. Table patrons will enjoy a mouth-watering 5 course Giada-inspired meal. Last year brought out celebrity chefs to Toronto such as Chuck Hughes, Michael Smith and David Rocco. New for this year, fundraisers who have raised over $1,000 that aren’t part of the top 50 will be invited to an exclusive Meet and Greet with Giada on February 8th and receive a personalized signed copy of her latest cookbook and a Chefs Challenge apron. Who wouldn’t love a photo with the lovely Giada? “We’re so thrilled to have such a charismatic chef on board for this year’s event,” explains Kevin Goldthorp, President of Mount Sinai Hospital Foundation and Karen Goldlist, President of Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary. “Giada’s energy and enthusiasm will be a motivating factor for our dedicated fundraisers who will raise much-needed funds for our fight against cancer.” Giada follows in the footsteps of Guy Fieri who hosted last year’s Chefs Challenge with flair at the Fairmont Royal York raising over $775,000 for Mount Sinai Hospital bringing the three-year fundraising total to over $3.04 million. “This, without a doubt, is the most off-the-hook, crammed-in dinner I’ve ever seen!” exclaimed Guy Fieri, of the 2012 gala. He continued, “Of all the events I do, you guys are raising the bar higher than anyone else in the world.” It’s best to get started on raising funds now because the top 4 fundraisers will get to compete in a pre-battle at the Delicious Food Show. The event is headlined by Martha Stewart with surprise celebrity judges taking place at the Better Living Centre on October 26-28th. For more info visit www.chefschallengeforacure.com Stay tuned for more celebrity chefs to be announced. In the meantime check out the video from last year’s Chefs Challenge 2012. Proceeds from Chefs Challenge support life-saving work in care and research in women’s cancers at Mount Sinai Hospital. ABOUT MOUNT SINAI HOSPITAL Mount Sinai Hospital is an internationally-recognized 442-bed acute care academic health sciences centre affiliated with the University of Toronto that is dedicated to delivering the best medicine and patient experience. It is focused on excellence in patient and family-centered care, innovative education and leading-edge research. Clinical strengths include women’s and infants’ health, chronic disease management, specialized cancer, emergency medicine, and geriatrics. Mount Sinai’s Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute ranks in the top ten biomedical research institutes in the world. www.mountsinai.on.ca RELATED ARTICLES Recap of Chefs Challenge 2012 Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary’s 60th Birthday Bash
In honour of one of Canada’s most prolific filmmakers, The TIFF Bell Lightbox is set to unveil a major exhibition celebrating the works of David Cronenberg entitled “Evolution”. It will showcase the evolution of David Cronenberg as a filmmaker curated by TIFF director CEO Piers Handling and Artistic Director Noah Cowan. Visitors will be immersed in Cronenberg’s world with the opportunity to view sixty original artifacts rare and unseen footage. The exhibit will remain at the TIFF Bell Lightbox for public viewings from November 1st to January 19, 2014. The exhibit is FREE for TIFF members, otherwise adult admission is $15 and there will be specials on Tuesdays for $5. Full price listings are here. For more information about the exhibit visit tiff.net/cronenberg Also, tickets are on sale now for the exhibition’s opening night Evolution Party which will take place on October 30, 2013. Party ticket prices start at $150 for members and $160 for non-members. The Evolution Party is sponsored by Richardson GMP, Canada’s largest independent wealth management firm. They also sponsored last year’s incredible Designing 007 Bond Party which took over the TIFF Bell Lightbox that evening. It was so good we named it one of the best Toronto events of 2012 so you can be sure to look forward to a great experience at this year’s Evolution Party. If you can’t wait, you can also download the free ebook on iTunes. ABOUT DAVID CRONENBERG David Paul Cronenberg, OC, FRSC (born March 15, 1943) is a Canadian filmmaker, screenwriter and actor. He is one of the principal originators of what is commonly known as the body horror or venereal horror genre. This style of filmmaking explores people’s fears of bodily transformation and infection. In his films, the psychological is typically intertwined with the physical. In the first half of his career, he explored these themes mostly through horror and science fiction, although his work has since expanded beyond these genres. He has been called “the most audacious and challenging narrative director in the English-speaking world.” RELATED ARTICLES The “DAVID BOWIE IS” EXHIBIT AT THE AGO Designing 007: Photos of the opening party celebrating 50 years of Bond Style at the TIFF Bell Lightbox
UPDATE: Pre-sale tickets are on right now as of Oct 10th since 10am today. You can use code FUTUREDREAMS on ticketmaster.ca I know it’s weird to already be thinking about next summer’s big EDM festival, Digital Dreams, taking place on Canada Day Weekend, June 28 and 29th, 2014. But if you’re already set on going and want the best price, early-bird tickets are available for purchase starting Friday, October 11th at 10:00am. Over 60,000 people are expected to be at the Flats of the Molson Canadian Ampitheatre (Ontario Place) so it might be a good idea to be prepared. Stay tuned for the lineup announcements and further info. For tickets and info visit digitaldreamsfest.ca Check out our photos from Digital Dreams 2013 this past June. Also check out the newly released Official Recap video of Digital Dreams 2013: RELATED ARTICLES Recap of Bud Light Sensation: An Ocean of White Photos from VELD 2013
Celebrating Canadians in many walks of life including music, sports, film, television, the 2013 edition of Canada’s Walk of Fame awards will air on Wednesday, December 18 at 8 PM on Global TV. Hosts include Martin Short, Mike Myers and Carly Rae Jepsen. Filmed right here in Toronto at Elgin Theatre, I got a chance to take in the red carpet festivities where the rain could not dampen spirits on a Saturday afternoon. Opening musical red carpet performances included Dirty Radio and Karl Wolf as well as other young, upcoming Canadian artists. This year’s latest Canada’s Walk of Fame inductees included Terry Fox, Alan Thicke and Christine Sinclair. Carly Rae Jepsen was honoured with the 2013 Allan Slaight Award. The full list includes: Bob Ezrin Terry Fox Victor Garber Craig and Marc Kielburger Oscar Peterson (Cineplex Legends Award Recipient) Christine Sinclair Alan Thicke In the broadcast you can look forward to Diana Krall honouring Oscar Peterson and Justin Bieber giving a shout out to Carly Rae Jepsen. Musical performances will include Tom Cochrane, The Tenors and Carly Rae Jepsen. “This year’s Canada’s Walk of Fame Awards will be a tour-de-force of Canadian stars, tributes and unforgettable performances, uniting viewers from across the country by reminding us of the extraordinary breadth of talent, innovation, strength and resolve that defines us as Canadians,” said Randy Lennox, President and CEO of Universal Music Canada and Talent Chair, Board of Directors, Canada’s Walk of Fame. “We’re thrilled to commemorate 15 years of Canada’s Walk of Fame, honouring remarkable Canadians who have contributed to our rich and diverse cultural landscape. It will be a night of celebration as eight new inductees join the ranks of Canada’s Walk of Fame.” ABOUT CANADA’S WALK OF FAME About Canada’s Walk of Fame Established in 1998 and now celebrating its 15th anniversary, Canada’s Walk of Fame (CWOF) aims to celebrate Canadians who have excelled in music, sport, film, television as well as the literary, visual, performing arts, science and innovation in order to engage and inspire the next generation. In 2010, CWOF expanded to include a festival featuring some of Canada’s most popular and iconic performers, as well as emerging artists from across the country. The annual celebration culminates in a televised awards special that honours Canada’s finest stars from the worlds of arts, entertainment and sports. With 2013’s additions, Canada’s Walk of Fame will have 151 inductees, each immortalized with their names forever cemented into the sidewalks of Toronto’s Entertainment District. For a complete list of inductees along with more information on Canada’s Walk of Fame visit www.canadaswalkoffame.com
Sharp Magazine threw another great fashionable soiree, this time for their Book for Men Fall Winter 2013 issue at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Many agreed it was their best yet. Highlights included: Great food including roast suckling pig with all the toppings Liquor and cocktail booths by Don Julio, Tanqueray, Macallan, Peroni Shoe shines by Penny Loafers Men’s and women’s hair styling Custom pocket squares by Garrison Bespoke Fine watches by Bandiera Jewellers Great swag bags from what I’ve seen From twitter and instagram: . @MrJeremyFreed says f/w 2013 is all about colour for men – we approve! #sharpmagazine #sstylefashion — Canoe Lifestyle (@CanoeLifestyle) September 26, 2013 And that's a wrap! Thanks for coming out everyone, hope you had a great night. #SharpMagazine — Sharp Magazine (@sharpmagazine) September 26, 2013 @sharpmagazine The custom @GarrisonBespoke pocket squares, the Don Julio bar and the amazing food spread were the highlights for me! — SoSasha (@SashaExeter) September 26, 2013 Swag from #sharpmagazine party. Luxury toilet paper. Love the 1st word. pic.twitter.com/Jx2u35TH3o — Sean Beckingham (@seanbeckingham) September 26, 2013 Related Articles Toronto Life’s ‘Most Stylish’ Party 2013 Sharp Magazine Spring Summer 2013 at Trump Hotel
Inspired by the nostalgia of the 90’s TV show, Beverly Hills 90210, this year’s 4th annual Artbound party took place at the Evergreen Brick Works. We were lucky to have attended last year’s packed charity party at Maison and it was a blast so this year we were expecting the same top-notch fun-loving spirit. It was a good time as usual with over 1,000 people in attendance in support of the Free the Children charity. Highlights included: Naughty by Nature live Art Battle A premium open bar Pizza Nova delivery was the reward for those who stuck it out until midnight hair styling Two newly-revealed pregnant hosts of the evening: Melissa Grelo and Amanda Alvaro ABOUT ARTBOUND ARTBOUND IS A NONPROFIT volunteer organization that harnesses the power of the arts to ensure that underprivileged children live better lives. The mandate is to engage our local community in global volunteer, school building and mentorship. Artbound partners with artists, and those passionate about the arts, to raise funds to help break the cycle of poverty. By building schools that enrich children with a full education, including art schools and programming, they aid in the development of skills that generate sustainable income. For more info visit artbound.ca RELATED ARTICLES Also check out our photos of last year’s Three to Be annual charity party with Naughty by Nature.
It was an evening of celebration and feasting at Linda Modern Thai restaurant located in the Shops at Don Mills. The Thai Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) awarded Linda Restaurant with the Thai Select Premium Cuisine designation; an honour bestowed to those abroad by the Government of Thailand whose restaurants adhere to the strict guidelines and practices of Thai Cuisine authenticity. Linda Modern Thai restaurant is the first Canadian restaurant to receive this honour. Recently, an invitation-only gala dinner was held to shine a spotlight on their authentic Thai dishes. Alongside Linda Liu and her husband Ernest (co-owners of Salad King and Linda Modern Thai), I had an opportunity to speak with their son Alan Liu (general manager and co-owner of Salad King and Linda Modern Thai) about the award. Beaming with pride, Alan expressed ambitions to not only continue down the path of offering traditional fare but to blaze a new trail and be one of the leaders in providing contemporary and innovative dishes at their upscale restaurant. With Chef Wing Li at the helm of the kitchen brigade, many of the dishes were executed with technical precision and an artful flair. The minds behind the menu are cognizant of the spectrum of flavours our taste buds can detect. Thai cuisine is a flavour wonderland; it uses a balance of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami ingredients in all its dishes. Some of the highlights included a lush, buttery Thai Lobster bisque with chubby nuggets of lobster bobbing within the golden brown broth. We also got to revel in textures with the Crispy Beef Panang: morsels of meat nestled together to form a crescent moon in a rich, golden-hued curry made with floral coconut milk and crunchy peanuts. The other darling of the evening was the Stewed Duck with Chestnuts. It arrived on our table glistening and blushing in rouge with the skin draped over the pull-apart meat. A reduction sauce of red and rice wines was ladled over the duck; the flesh was rendered a melt in your mouth softness. The dish was lined with hearty chestnuts and evoked memories of family meals one would have during the holidays. The spread was grande and with stomachs at nearly 100% capacity… there was still dessert to arrive at the table! The evening ended with a molten chocolate lava cake. It sat in a pool of chai tea inspired caramel sauce with a snow white scoop of coconut ice cream made especially for the restaurant by Marble Slab Creamery. Linda Modern Thai serves lunch and dinner. For more information and to make reservations visit www.lindamodernthai.com Photos: Nick Lee ABOUT THAI SELECT Thai Select or Thai Select Premium certification identifies Thai restaurants that offer at least 60 percent authentic Thai foods on their menus. They also imply that these restaurants employ the same or similar cooking methods as in Thailand, and may import ingredients from Thailand. For more information visit www.thaiselect.ca
Celebrating the era in which it was started back in 1953, the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary held their “Celebrate 60” Birthday Bash gala last night, September 22nd, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. There were raffle prizes and also a live auction with Jeanne Beker as the auctioneer. A video was shown highlighting the Auxiliary’s impact on fundraising leadership and mentorship. Archival photos from the group’s early beginnings were shown in the video and also integrated into the event decor such as the table tops. Canada’s own charismatic jazz crooner, Matt Dusk, was a perfect musical fit for the 50s theme with the Big Band Orchestra. The 50’s theme was carried through to the vintage dresses on display (worn by some of the Auxiliary members) and the 50’s diner food including hot dogs, hamburgers, milkshakes and pie pops. Gourmet mini plates in the spirit of TV-dinner style entrees were also served. Deliciousness all around. The fête also gave praise to the large donation of $35 million by the Tanenbaum family this past June 2013. Congrats to the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary on reaching their 60th anniversary milestone of philanthropy. Proceeds from the gala will support the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary’s $4.5 million pledge in women’s and infants’ health. About Mount Sinai Hospital Mount Sinai Hospital is an internationally recognized, 472-bed acute care academic health sciences centre affiliated with the University of Toronto. It is known for excellence in the provision of compassionate patient care, innovative education, and leading-edge research. Mount Sinai’s Centres of Excellence include: Daryl A. Katz Centre for Urgent & Critical Care; Frances Bloomberg Centre for Women’s & Infants’ Health; Christopher Sharp Centre for Surgical Oncology; Centre for Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Centre for Musculoskeletal Disease and the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute. For more information about Mount Sinai Hospital, please visit www.mountsinai.ca RELATED ARTICLES Check out photos from Mount Sinai’s Champagne Tea Celebration to kick off the 60th birthday celebrations Recap from Future Sinai’s Sinai Soiree at Casa Loma
UPDATE: Congrats to Fonda Lola and Tequila Tromba for getting into the Guinness Book of World Records! @TequilaTromba & @fondalola did it ? A Guinness record for largest tequila tasting? Si ! Cc : @CRTequila #tequila pic.twitter.com/DHiWeexMXB — Andres (@andres_tequila) April 2, 2014 Tequila Tromba and the upcoming new Mexican restaurant, Fonda Lola, hosted the attempt for World’s Largest Tequila Tasting to be added to the Guinness World Records. Taking place at 99 Sudbury, guests could sample a flight of 100% blue agave tequila from Tequila Tromba. There was also plenty of food options by Fonda Lola, Gourmet Bitches, Valdez, Playa Cabana Cantina, Rock Lobster Food and Hot Bunzz. Other attractions included a photo booth by Snapz Photo Booth, Steamwhistle beer, caesars by Motts Clamato, a mariachi band, and Mombacho cigars. With 1,000 people in attendance brimming at capacity at the venue, we will have to wait and see if the record is made in the next edition of the Guiness World Records. Congrats to Shawn for winning our ticket giveaway to this sold-out event. Stay tuned for more details about the opening of the new Mexican restaurant by Andres Marquez, Fonda Lola, at 942 Queen West. Sorry amigos we are sold out for tomorrow nights #TequilaTasting! Catch you another time! @RockLobsterFood @PlayaCabana @FondaLola… — Tequila Tromba (@TequilaTromba) September 19, 2013 #TequilaTasting have a taste, then have another pic.twitter.com/aLJgAI2Z7Q — Fonda Lola (@FondaLola) September 19, 2013 #TequilaTasting a lil'tequila, a lotta epic pic.twitter.com/7xBe6v9QUw — Fonda Lola (@FondaLola) September 19, 2013 Thank you Toronto! 1000 people drinking Tromba Anejo. What an event #worldtasting http://t.co/CKEDlgTz4S — Tequila Tromba (@TequilaTromba) September 20, 2013 Great nite at #WorldsBiggestTequilaTasting w @TequilaTromba @FondaLola @RockLobsterFood and others. Thanks to all for many #MombachoMoments — Mombacho Cigars (@MombachoCigars) September 20, 2013
You’re probably familiar with the Oscar award-winning movie, Argo, directed by and starring Ben Affleck. But to get at the heart of the story you must check out the critically-acclaimed Canadian version entitled “Our Man in Tehran”. It’s a documentary featured at this year’s TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) focusing more on the hard facts and the risks involved of the Iranian hostage crisis of 1979. The film interviews our own Canadian hero, Ken Taylor (aka the “Canadian Caper”), then Canadian ambassador to Iran who took the risk to shelter six Americans and helped them leave the country safely. Directed by Larry Weinstein and former Toronto Blue Jays baseball player, Drew Taylor, in his directorial debut this is a film celebrating Canadian spirit. Check out the official trailer: Here are photos from the “Our Man in Tehran” after party at the National Club with Ken Taylor, Drew Taylor and Joe Clark in attendance.
Here’s some celebrities including A-listers that I captured on camera from red carpets, galas, and screening after-parties at TIFF 2013.
The Glitz & Glamour celebrated the opening of TIFF at Arcadian Court with a red theme. This Oxford Beach party was in support of motionball which supports the Special Olympics. More photos: Here are photos from the TIFF Closing Party at Malaparte, the rooftop of the TIFF Bell Lightbox. More photos of the TIFF Closing Party: ABOUT MOTIONBALL The motionball mandate is to introduce the next generation of donors, volunteers, and sponsors to the Special Olympics movement through social and sporting events that integrate young professionals with Special Olympic athletes. motionball strives to encourage Canadians to come together and raise funds and awareness to ensure the long-term stability of the Special Olympics in Canada.
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with the World’s Largest Tequila Tasting on September 19th, 2013 at 99 Sudbury. Tickets are on sale for $39 each and BestofToronto.net is giving away a pair of tickets! Each ticket gets you a full flight of tequila, two tacos from Fonda Lola and an opportunity to be a part of the Guinness World Book of Records! Contest ends Monday, September 16 at 4:00pm EST. Must be legal drinking age. No transportation provided. Open to Toronto residents only. No cash value. Enter on this Facebook link here. https://www.facebook.com/BestOfToronto/app_342579195819956 BONUS: Tweet this on twitter for an extra chance to win: “@bestoftorontoTV I want to win tickets to the World’s Largest Tequila Tasting“. You can also buy tickets at www.tequilatromba.com/worldtasting Good luck and hope to see you there! -Nick
Dubbed as the unofficial annual kickoff to TIFF, the Producers Ball celebrates Canadian producers, their talents and their work in film, TV and multimedia production with a charity gala in support of World Vision Canada at the ROM this year. Hosted by The W Network’s Property Brothers (Drew Scott and Jonathan Scott) with the backdrop of the ever-impressive ROM dinosaurs, guests included Gene Simmons’ own Shannon Tweed and Sophie Simmons, as well as Cara Gee (Empire of Dirt), Mike Holmes (Holmes on Homes), Scott McGillivray, Colin Mochrie, and Ken Taylor, George Stromboulopoulos, Carise Van Houten (Game of Thrones), Jian Ghomeshi, Kardinal Offishall, Taylor Kaye, Glen Peloso and many more. For more info visit www.producersball.com Check out this interview by Katie Chats with Shannon Tweed and Sophie Simmons (Gene Simmons, Family Jewels) on the red carpet at Producers Ball.
Toronto is lucky to be the first North American destination of the acclaimed retrospective work from David Bowie celebrating the legendary pop culture, musical pioneer and style icon at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). In the exhibition, David Bowie fans will be able to view more than 300 items collected from the 5 decades of Bowie’s career including memorabilia such as his own handwritten set lists, lyrics, diary entries, instruments, music videos, and sketches. The “David Bowie is” exhibition is set to open at the AGO on September 25, 2013 and will remain on display until November 27, 2013. Tickets are available for sale starting September 23, 2013 but you can book advance tickets now at http://www.ago.net/david-bowie-is/ A timed-entry ticket gives you access to the exhibition at the price of $21.50 for ages 17 and under, $26.50 for seniors and $30 for adults. Admission is FREE for AGO members and for children ages five and under. The neat part is that ticket buyers have the opportunity to upgrade to a combo package that includes timed-entry access to any time slot for the other popular exhibit: Ai Weiwei: According to What? and the first month of David Bowie is. Combo tickets are $31.50 for youth ages 17 and under, $36.50 for seniors and $40 for adults. Tickets can be booked in person, by phone at 416-979-6655 or online by visiting www.ago.net/david-bowie-is Here’s a quick video of the fanfare for the David Bowie exhibition at the V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum in London, England.
It was a beautiful night with Toronto Life’s 2nd annual exclusive bash called ‘Most Stylish’ with the most stylish people on the opening night of TIFF at Shangri-La Hotel. The ballroom and the large tented terrace were open and packed. The bites were savoury and the drinks were flowing. Everything was definitely top notch and we will remember it as one of the best events of 2013. Here’s a video from last year’s Most Stylish party also held at Shangri-La
Growing from last year’s inaugural event, this 2nd iteration of the Diner en Blanc in Toronto had 1,600 participants come together at a secret location for an elegant pop-up picnic all dressed in white. Guests are brought to meet-up points and made aware of the venue at the last hour. It was in a parking lot at Queen Street just east of Church Street. I had recently lived nearby so it was interesting to see familiar grounds turned into a magical white evening. So it was less of a traditional picnic setting compared to last year in the grassy seclusion of Fort York but more of an busy urban experience. Some participants have voiced their opinions about the choice of venue but of course a great time was still had by all with the twirling white napkins, candles, sparklers, music, dancing and positive vibes all around. The addition of the street performers was a nice touch this year. Naturally passersby on the street stopped, stared, snapped photos and asked what was going on. Diner en Blanc originated in Paris over 20 years ago and now assembles nearly 15,000 people every year in various sites of prestige including the Pont des Arts, the Effel Tower site, the Louvre Pyramid, the Trocadéro Esplanade, Place Vendôme, Château de Versailles, the Esplanade de Notre-Dame, the Esplanade des Invalides, the periphery of the Place de l’Étoile, the Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde and the The Carousel du Louvre. For more information visit http://toronto.dinerenblanc.info More photos below: Here’s an official Diner en Blanc video: Also check out photos from last year’s Toronto Diner En Blanc 2012
In it’s 19th year, this was the biggest Canada Fan Expo as the thousands of geeks and those interested in geek culture congregated at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre over the 4 day festivities for everything science fiction, gaming, comics, anime, sports and of course, cosplay. Highlights from this year’s Fan Expo included: Over 100,000 fans attended, 22% more than last year First time both the North and South Buildings of the MTCC were full of Fan Expo Mayor Rob Ford arm wrestling the one and only Hulk Hogan. Ford won. See video below. This was the first year that “Sports Expo” was added including photo ops with athletes such as Roberto Alomar. Over 900 retailers and exhibitors which is 200 more than 2012 Hands on previews of the Microsoft XBox One and the more distant Sony Playstation 4. Next year is the Fan Expo’s 20th anniversary so you can be sure it will be even bigger. The date’s already set as Aug 28-31, 2014. For more info visit www.fanexpocanada.com Oh hey, Nathan Fillion! #FanExpoCan pic.twitter.com/jIJaUCXiFE — Ashley Capon (@ashleycapon) August 24, 2013 The Actors behind Splinter Cell Blacklist panel. Room 701-B. Now! #FanExpoCan pic.twitter.com/Az3NxP4IF6 — Jay Acevedo (@Darth_Jay) August 24, 2013 https://twitter.com/ArgosCheer/status/370671835245215744/photo/1 It's a packed room at the @SpaceChannel #OrphanBlack panel #FanExpoCan pic.twitter.com/VUTLfCn78v — Space Publicity (@Space_PR) August 23, 2013 Admit it, you're stoked for another #FanExpoCan. It's time to save the date! Aug 28 – 31, 2014. See you next year! http://t.co/eqzkcGzWLu — Fan Expo Canada (@FanExpoCanada) August 28, 2013 Here’s the video of Mayor Rob Ford wrestling Hulk Hogan by Sports Net Canada
UPDATE: Operanation Party tickets are already 85% sold! VIP and Early Bird tickets are sold out. Get yours now! Montreal’s own Sam Roberts Band has been announced as the headliners to perform at Operanation 10. They’re a multi-platinum, six-time Juno award winning rock band that will definitely put on a great show. They will be performing a unique mashup collaboration with the Canadian Opera Company’s Ensemble Studio. In it’s 10th anniversary, Operanation is the COC’s highly-anticipated annual fundraising gala at the magnificent Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts on the evening of October 24, 2013. “Operanation began 10 years ago as a fundraising initiative and has since expanded to become an extraordinary platform for the Canadian Opera Company to reach new and younger audiences,” says COC General Director Alexander Neef. “Operanation demonstrates how versatile opera can be by pairing our classical singers with exceptional modern musicians to create a truly unique party performance. We’re thrilled to welcome the Sam Roberts Band to our opera house to commemorate this very exciting 10th anniversary.” The addition of the Sam Roberts Band continues the tradition of rock and opera at Operanation where last year Jian Ghomeshi did a smashing collaboration with The Arkells and Ambur Braid, soprano from the COC Ensemble Studio. Operanat10n: A Night of Temptation party tickets are $150 per person and available online at www.operanation.ca or by calling COC Ticket Services at 416-363-8231. This gala always sells out so be sure to get your tickets. Over 1,000 guests are expected to attend and early bird tickets are already sold out. ABOUT OPERANATION Operanation is the Canadian Opera Company’s premier fundraising event. For arts patrons as well as the opera-curious, Operanation presents a unique experience, equal parts party and performance, with special collaborations between classic and modern music and complementary art forms ranging from visual arts to fashion. Attracting over 1,000 guests, Operanation takes over three floors of the COC’s opera house, the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Funds raised for Operanation are directed towards the COC’s Ensemble Studio, Canada’s premier training program for young opera professionals. For more information on Operanation, visit operanation.ca, @operanation, or facebook.com/Operanation. RELATED ARTICLES Also check out our photos from last year’s Operanation: Sweet Revenge with Nelly Furtado and The Arkells. We rated last year’s Operanation as one of the best events of 2012.
On September 21st, Two Oceans and Nederburg wine will play host to all the festivities of Canada Braai Day at The Distillery District. The festivities will be hosted by CBC’s Dwight Drummond and Anne-Marie Mediwake. A braai, is the Afrikaans term for barbeque, and it’s a South African custom that brings together friends and family of all demographics and religions. There will be live entertainment, prizes and traditional braai fare by The Distillery’s Chef de Cuisine, Catering, Charles Kerr. There will also be food pairings of the menu items with South African wines: Durbanville Hills, Flat Roof Manor, Nederburg, Obikwa, Place in the Sun and Two Oceans. Festivities will take place at the Ibiza Patio in the Distillery District on September 21st, 2013 from noon to 8pm. It’s a celebration of great food, wine, friends and family in the spirit of South African. Braai Day is coming to #Canada and this is only 1 of the many mouthwatering #grilled treats you can expect to find! pic.twitter.com/WTN9FYBTgC — TwoOceansWineCA (@TwoOceansWineCA) August 9, 2013
In the 5th annual gala kicking off this year’s Scotiabank Buskerfest, the Scotiabank Buskerball 2013 gala dazzled with awe-inspiring performances and spectacles by talented street performers from around the world. There was much excitement to discover that evening at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (formerly the Maple Leaf Gardens). From the superb wines supplied by 20 Bees to the delectable food stations including Vagabondo, Salad King, Barberian’s Steak House, Sultan’s Tent and many more, there was no shortage of tastes to discover. Guests delighted in the prizes to be won at the silent auctions with funds raised going to support Epilepsy Toronto not to mention the live auction items and raffle prizes. Among the 600 guests in attendance at Buskerball, there was the host, Andria Case (CTV News Anchor) and former Toronto Maple Leafs, Darcy Tucker. There was also Luba Goy (Royal Canadian Air Farce) and Michael “Pinball” Clemons. One in every 100 people live with epilepsy, the world’s most common neurological disorder. Proceeds from the Buskerball gala and Buskerfest weekend festival go to the non-profit organization, Epilepsy Toronto. For more info visit epilepsytoronto.org Photo of the looks from Buskerball by Tiffany Leigh: More event photos by Nick Lee ABOUT SCOTIABANK BUSKERFEST Since its inception in 2000, Scotiabank BuskerFest has featured hundreds of the best street performers from around the world, hosted millions of amazed spectators and helped raise much-needed funds for Epilepsy Toronto. Scotiabank BuskerFest is the largest street performers’ festival in North America and is the largest Epilepsy awareness-raising event in the world.