Urban Exploration

## ‍♂️ Christie to MOCA: West-End Wander + Free Friday Night Art **Friday\, March 6 \| 6:00 PM Start** Meet **outside Christie Station** Finish at **Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (MOCA)** **Approx. 4.5 km total walking distance** ⏱️ About 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace (including stops) *** ### About This Walk We’re exploring one of Toronto’s most character-filled west-end corridors — from leafy residential streets and vibrant local strips to former industrial lands transformed into creative hubs — ending with **[free Friday admission at MOCA](https://moca.ca/)**[.](https://moca.ca/) **This walk proceeds rain, snow , or shine. Only sign up if you're able to walk in all kinds of weather.** This is a social, urban-discovery stroll with stories, architecture, neighbourhood trivia, and plenty of photo ops. *** ## ️ About MOCA [MOCA ](https://moca.ca/)is Toronto’s leading museum dedicated to contemporary art. Housed in a repurposed auto factory near Dundas West, the space blends raw industrial architecture with bold, thought-provoking exhibitions from Canadian and international artists. ✨ **Bonus:** Admission is **FREE on Friday evenings**, including our event day — **Friday, March 6**. Stay as long as you like inside the galleries after we arrive. **MOCA closes at 9PM** *** ## What to Expect * Moderate pace, mostly flat terrain * Urban sidewalks + paved trail * A mix of history, architecture, neighbourhood stories & good company *** ## What to Bring * Comfortable walking shoes * Weather-appropriate layers * Presto card if you plan to TTC home * Curiosity *** ## Why You’ll Love This One This route showcases Toronto’s evolution in just a few kilometres — parkland, immigrant corridors, industrial grit, and cutting-edge art — all ending with free gallery access. Look for **Nicolas** near the Christie Station entrance at 6PM. Let’s explore the west end and then dive into contemporary art together. Remember you can just show up if unsure of your schedule **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t)

Come join us for dinner, drinks and fun! From the restaurant: Housed within a reimagined historic landmark, this 23,000 square foot destination blends bold Mediterranean and Asian influences with immersive design, dynamic energy, and a distinct point of view — all built around the art of social dining. Led by seasoned local restaurateurs, Queens Harbour is inspired by the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality—where meals are about connection, not just cuisine. Bringing you a Chef-driven “MediterrAsian” culinary journey —a flavourful fusion where the boldness of Asia meets the soul of the Mediterranean. With Canada’s largest retractable rooftop patio and three uniquely designed dining spaces—including the private and semi-private Donika, Janine, and Rowa named after the Founders mothers —every seat reveals a new perspective. Please note there is a $3 charge for this meetup. Payment Options:
E-transfers should be sent to [torontofriendsmeetup@gmail.com](mailto:torontofriendsmeetup@gmail.com)
Or
PayPal Link:
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/torontofriendsmeetup 
Or you can pay cash in person.

 Please note: refunds will only be issued in the case where the organizer has to cancel or reschedule the event.
 Hope to see you there! Jess

Join us for our new winter series for 2026 - BOARDGAME FRIDAY! This is a great place to meet new people, make new friends and play some fun games. Come with a group or by yourself! There will be games like Catan, Avalon, Ticket to Ride, Uno,, Cards Against Humanity and more! **The restaurant, Aifam, will be giving out a free alcoholic drink of your choice (Wine or Beer) with the purchase of each sandwich!** Address: 102 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G6 This event has an entry fee of $15 to be paid via cash or e-transfer. Looking forward to hosting this!

🎟️ **\*\*\*Please get your tickets here\*\*\*** 🎟️ [https://register.evolvedigital.com/events/evolvedigitalsummits/2032056](https://register.evolvedigital.com/events/evolvedigitalsummits/2032056) **Join us for the eleventh EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) summit – returning to Toronto at the MaRS Centre on March 6!** **Immerse yourself in dozens of sessions covering diverse topics from web development and site-building to AI, digital and content strategy, UX design, and more.** 🧐 Our summit features +30 talks over a range of **distinct** **themes that shape open source and the digital space:** 1. Marketing & Comms Strategy 2. Digital Craftsmanship 3. Tech & AI 4. Higher Ed 5. Drupal 6. WordPress 7. Design & Creative 🔹 See more at [evolvedigital.com](http://evolvedigital.com/) 🔹 **✅ Why attend?** EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) summits attract 150-200 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, offering robust networking opportunities with peers and experts, including our distinguished speakers. **Even more on what to expect:** 🎯**Marketing & Comms Strategy** Learn how to enhance your online presence and effectively connect with your audience. Explore unique challenges and opportunities in higher education and research institutions. **🤖Tech & AI** Stay ahead of the curve by exploring how emerging technologies, automation, and ethical AI are driving real-world innovation. 🎨**Design & Creative** A curated selection of sessions for designers, product owners, and other creatives. **🛠️ Digital Craftsmanship** Bridge the gap between strategy and execution with proven best practices in SEO, AEO, accessibility and technical excellence for building smarter, more resilient digital experiences. **🌐 Drupal, WordPress and Open Source** Champion the open web by leveraging the community-driven power and flexibility of open source platforms like Drupal and WordPress to build scalable digital experiences. **👩‍🎓 Higher Ed** See how top institutions are navigating digital transformation to create scalable solutions and inclusive student experiences. **🤝Even More Networking Opportunities** Beyond the summit’s networking reception, join us for an afterparty in Toronto, maximizing your chances to build and strengthen business relationships. 🎤 **Interested in speaking?** We’re currently accepting proposals for 20-minute sessions on a variety of topics. Whether you're a seasoned presenter or a first-time speaker, we’d love to hear from you! 👉 Submit your session here: [evolvedigital.com/apply-to-speak](https://www.evolvedigital.com/apply-to-speak) 📣 **Become a sponsor** Want to showcase your brand to a vibrant tech community? We're currently welcoming sponsors for the summit. 📧 Reach out to us at info@evolvedigital.com to explore sponsorship opportunities. Learn more at[ ](https://www.evolvedrupal.com/)[evolvedigital.com](http://www.evolvedigital.com/)[,](https://www.evolvedrupal.com/boston) email info@evolvedigital.com with any questions, or[ sign up for our newsletter](https://share.hsforms.com/1I1SBadMPSa2-YDdPoan1mQ1qwun?__hstc=131413968.236cffcfa389e8f6bf02ff323070c948.1740157384451.1740595281730.1742237990042.5&__hssc=131413968.1.1742237990042&__hsfp=2850574025) to stay updated on this and future events 💙💚 **The EvolveDigital story so far** EvolveDigital (formerly EvolveDrupal) is in its fourth year and has welcomed 1500+ professionals over its past summits in Atlanta, Boston, Toronto, and Ottawa. Participants come from a range of backgrounds: digital strategy, web development, UX/UI design, marketing, and project management. EvolveDigital has hosted high-profile speakers from various sectors including government, higher education, healthcare, not-for-profit, and technology. Explore some of our past summits to see what to expect: [evolvedigital.com/past-events](https://www.evolvedigital.com/past-events) **Sponsors** [Evolving Web](https://evolvingweb.com/) [Pantheon](https://pantheon.io/)

New Toronto is a neighbourhood in Etobicoke just west of the former limits of Toronto. It mushroomed in the early 20th century but today it looks older than old Toronto. The exception is the enclave of spiffy condos at Humber Bay Shores. The biggest attraction here is the former Mimico Asylum, which now houses Humber College and a couple of ghosts. We won't explore the underground tunnels but we'll check out Toronto's largest open-air skating trail and loop around the historic buildings. Going eastwards, we'll pass by Polish and British food places and an Australian cafe. The eclectic mix continues in Mimico, with an increasing Tibetan and Thai focus. It's also home to the best Ukrainian restaurant in the GTA. The route winds through soaring condos at Humber Bay, the frozen lakeshore, and circles back from the iconic bridge marking the border of Etobicoke and old Toronto. From there, it's a short distance to either an exemplary Argentinean steakhouse for asado (barbecue) or a modern Chinese restaurant for spicy Sichuan claypot dishes. **Highlights** 1. Assembly Hall (depart 2pm) 2. Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail 3. Humber College / Cumberland House / The Gatehouse 4. Zakopane Deli / Albatros Pub 5. Kitchen On Sixth 6. Eighth Street Skate Park / Bosnian Islamic Centre 7. The Sydney Grind (depart 2:50pm) 8. Prince of Wales Park 9. Mr. Momo 10. Pemako Kitchen / Barrel House Korchma 11. Asters Patisserie 12. Waterfront Trail 13. Humber Bay Park West Parking Lot (depart 4:05pm) 14. Eau Du Soleil 15. Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen 16. Humber Bay Arch Bridge 17. Vos Restaurante Argentino 18. Tis Two Cities (arrive 5:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** New Toronto > Mimico > Humber Bay Shores **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Join us Sunday, March 8th for a sunrise timelapse session from Wards Island with a view facing the Toronto skyline. We will meet inside the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and take the first ferry to Wards Island at **6:30 AM sharp**. Please arrive early to purchase your ferry ticket and meet inside the terminal so we can board together. Important: **Daylight Saving Time begins that morning**, so clocks move forward overnight. Even though we are meeting at 6:15 AM, it will still be dark when we depart. Plan for the morning: – Meet inside the ferry terminal before 6:15 AM – Board the 6:30 ferry to Wards Island – Walk to our shooting location facing the Toronto skyline – Set up cameras and tripods – Capture a sunrise timelapse as the sun rises behind the city Tripods are highly recommended for timelapse photography. If you don’t have a tripod, you are still welcome to join and capture handheld photos. What to bring: – Camera – Tripod (recommended) – Fully charged batteries – Warm clothing Weather permitting event. If skies are completely overcast, the event may be cancelled as sunrise visibility will be limited. This is a collaborative, beginner-friendly photography meetup. No selling or promotion of photography services permitted.

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hardy-winter-2026)** ***Muskoka, Ontario's 'Cottage Country', is one of Canada's best-loved and most beautiful destinations. During the calm of winter, it is especially tranquil.*** We’ll start the day exploring Hardy Lake on a 10.5 km loop trail. This hike introduces you to Muskoka’s distinct scenery, around gorgeous lakes, the iconic granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield and an environment unmistakably shaped by beaver activity. Along the way, you may just spot some of the beavers, otters and turtles who call Hardy Lake home, offering a true snapshot of Muskoka's wilderness. What to expect: \- Snow\-dusted\, lakeside trails \- Distinct Muskoka scenery \- The iconic Lake Hardy wooden boardwalk \- Rich biodiversity **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Highlights** **Iconic Scenery -** You'll take in some of the region's most beautiful views and get up close with the Canadian Shield. **Wildlife Spotting -** If you're lucky, you may spot the beavers and otters that call this region home. **Pristine Frozen Lakes -** Take in the natural frozen beauty of Hardy Lake. **Event cost: $60+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hardy-winter-2026)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** On a warm June day in 1985, Air India flight 182 left Toronto Pearson headed east for Montreal, London, and onward to India, with 329 passengers and crew. The flight never reached London. It was destroyed by a suitcase bomb over the north Atlantic Ocean off the shores of Ireland, resulting in one of the most complicated and politically sensitive investigation in recent Canadian history. Since a vast majority of the passengers were Canadians, this was the worst terrorist attack against Canadians in our history. The outcome divided families and shone a spotlight on wrong doing at all levels here and abroad. A fascinating story, but a tragic one for the victims. This tour looks at the story in detail and the fallout. This tour also examines the history of the Humber Bay Shores, and the historic Mimico Creek, or "where the passenger pigeons take flight." The area is a walkers paradise as it follows the shoreline for great picture taking moments as well. If you have not explored Mimico and the Humber shores, or new to Toronto, this walk is for you. The price of this tour is $15.00 per person! This extensive walking tour begins at the Humber Streetcar Loop on Lakeshore Blvd and the Queensway! We end the tour at Mimico Avenue in Mimico Village on Lakeshore Blvd West. \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** This city has changed over the last few years. But what were the events that propelled the city in new ways, new avenues. This tour looks at the events that truly changed the city for good and some say for bad. Buildings have been erected and others torn down, but certain happenings in the city changed the path forward forever. And those events were viewed as monumental at the time. Today, we see the outcome of let's say Hurricane Hazel's fury, the development of our parkland. Or the building of the subway system in 1954. The first Great Fire, Christie Pits Riot, War of 1812, Constance Hamilton, Hurricane Hazel, and the creation of the Toronto Islands, all changed Toronto's destiny. But over time, those landmark stories have been forgotten. We need to bring them back and highlight them for the next generation! Let's get started! This tour explores the downtown area in great detail, and uncovers the stories that changed our impression of the city. This walking tour begins on the **steps of Old City Hall.** This walk is for all fitness levels. Please dress for the weather, and bring your love of history was well. This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

**DANFORTH WALK, BUTTERFLY MURAL & GREEK LUNCH️** Street Culture, Public Art & A Proper Greek Feast There’s something about the Danforth that feels like old-school Toronto in the best possible way — vibrant, layered, proudly local, and full of stories. Join us for a social walk along one of the city’s most iconic stretches: **Danforth Avenue**. As we stroll west toward downtown, we’ll pass lively patios, long-standing family restaurants, cozy cafés, independent shops, and the everyday rhythm of a neighbourhood that has shaped Toronto’s cultural identity for generations. This area is famously home to the annual **Taste of the Danforth**, one of the largest street festivals in the city — and historically, it was once home to the largest Greek community outside of Greece. You feel that history in the bakeries, the signage, the music drifting from open doors. It’s not just a walk. I t’s a little slice of Toronto heritage — experienced together. **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* The Butterfly Mural Stop Along the way, we’ll stop at the Butterfly Mural, sponsored by the **David Suzuki Foundation** as part of The Great Canadian Butterflyway Project. It’s bold, colourful, and rooted in environmental awareness — a reminder that even in the middle of the city, we are connected to something larger. We’ll pause, take photos, chat, and enjoy a little moment of art-meets-nature in urban Toronto. \*\*\* ️ Greek Lunch at a Danforth Institution After our walk, we’ll sit down for lunch at the historic **Astoria Shish Kebob House**, one of the most well-known Greek restaurants in the city. Expect: Classic souvlaki Lemon potatoes Fresh Greek salad Big, generous comfort food energy Menu: Click Here! Nothing bonds people like sharing a table and passing the tzatziki. \*\*\* ‍♂️ What to Expect We’ll walk at a relaxed, social pace — stopping to observe, chat, and enjoy the neighbourhood. The route will take us toward Danforth & Chester. You’re welcome to leave at any time. \*\*\* ❄️ Weather & Commitment Please don’t sign up if you’re not ready to walk in real winter conditions. This event happens rain, snow, or classic Toronto wind. The only exception: if temperatures reach -20°C, the event will be canceled. Bundle up — this one is for the walkers. ❄️ \*\*\* Meetup Details Meetup Location: Outside the station (exact station noted in event listing) I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes Please arrive on time so we can begin together. End Location: Danforth & Chester \*\*\* Meetup Fee ️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! \*\*\* What to Bring * Water * Good winter boots * Gloves & hat * Something warm to drink * A small snack (optional) Layers are your best friend. \*\*\* Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether you’re single or not. We also host: Movies Walks & hikes Arts & culture ️ Restaurant outings …and lots of welcoming, low-pressure community gatherings. You’re always welcome. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You can just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes life happens and plans may need to shift — please keep an eye out for updates. \*\*\* Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the culture. Stay for the conversation. Leave full — in more ways than one. The Danforth has heart. Let’s go feel it together. ️✨

❄️ WINTER STATIONS WALK + SOCIAL + LUNCH ❄️ Art, Architecture & a Brisk Boardwalk Adventure Why hibernate when you can bundle up and experience one of Toronto’s most imaginative winter traditions? Launched in 2014, **Winter Stations** invites the international design and art community to reimagine the lifeguard towers along Toronto’s east-end beaches for the winter season. What began as a bold local collaboration between RAW Design, Ferris + Associates, and Curio has grown into a global design competition, attracting entries from over 90 countries and transforming the quiet winter shoreline into an open-air gallery at the water’s edge. It’s creative. It’s architectural. It’s windswept and wonderfully Canadian. And it’s even better with good company. **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* ‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll meet at Woodbine Beach and walk along the boardwalk, stopping to admire and chat about each installation as we go. The walk will take us along the waterfront (approximately 1 hours total, depending on our pace and how long we linger). Once we reach the end point, we’ll make our way back toward Woodbine Beach along the boardwalk. Afterward, for those who’d like to warm up, we’ll head toward Queen Street East to find a cozy spot to grab something to eat and continue the conversation. ☕ End Spot: Queen & Silver Birch \*\*\* ❄️ Weather & Commitment Please only sign up if you’re ready to walk in true winter conditions. This event is happening rain, snow, or classic Toronto wind. We embrace the elements. The only exception: the event will be canceled if temperatures reach -20°C. If you’re not sure you can handle the cold, it’s absolutely okay to skip this one. This is for the winter warriors. \*\*\* How to Find Me I’ll be waiting in front of the washrooms and changing area near the parking lot at Woodbine Beach. I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat. Please do not wander off without checking in — I will only wait 5 minutes. \*\*\* Meetup Fee Meetup Fee: $5 Cash in person or e-transfer to: [mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com) ️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! \*\*\* What to Bring * Water or a warm drink * Proper winter boots or good walking shoes * Warm winter clothing (layers are your friend!) Comfort is key — we’ll be outdoors the entire time. \*\*\* ⏰ Can I Leave Early? Absolutely. You’re welcome to head out at any point. The full walk is about 1 hour but you can participate for as long as you like. \*\*\* Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social, make friends, and enjoy shared experiences — whether you’re single or not. We also host: Movies Walks & hikes Arts & culture outings ️ Restaurant meetups …and plenty of cozy, community-focused gatherings all year round. You’re always welcome here. \*\*\* ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder If you’re unsure about your schedule, feel free to decide on the day of. You’re welcome to just show up. And as always, sometimes circumstances change and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the art. Stay for the fresh air. Leave feeling invigorated, inspired… and maybe just a little proud of yourself for choosing winter over the couch. There’s something magical about the beach in February — especially when you don’t experience it alone. ❄️✨

Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District. (Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)

Let’s meet and discuss this fun but moving collection of wildly creative short stories. (Photo credit: TimesNowNews.com)

Let us meet for some end of week catching up

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Porter’s Coffee House. Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!