Weekend Road Trips

### ❄️ **Festive Winter Walk — Holiday Markets Edition!** **📅 Friday, December 19** **⏰ Meet for 6:00 PM** **📍 Starting Point:** outside McDonald’s at **Bathurst & King** (look for the Meetup sign) Bundle up and join us for a magical winter walk through Toronto’s most festive holiday spots! We’ll explore markets, lights, treats, and cozy vibes all evening long. Perfect for festive vibes or any last minute gifts you might need to pick up. *** ### 🎄 **Our Festive Route** #### **1️⃣ McDonald's (Bathurst & King) — Meet & Warm Up** We’ll gather outside . Grab a warm drink and get ready to stroll. #### **2️⃣ Stackt Market – Holiday Markets & Lights** Our first festive stop! Explore creative vendors, glowing installations, and lots of holiday photo moments. #### **3️⃣ The Well — Winter Lights & Vendors** A short walk brings us to The Well, beautifully decorated for the season with cheerful lights, pop-ups, shops, and indoor warm-up spots. #### **4️⃣ St. Lawrence Market – Seasonal Treats** Next, we continue east to explore tasty holiday treats, local goods, and classic seasonal flavors. #### **5️⃣ Distillery Winter Village – Grand Finale!** We end at the iconic Winter Village. Twinkle lights, Christmas music, festive vendors, and all the magical holiday atmosphere you could want. Stay as long as you like! **Note, there is an [admission fee](https://thedistillerywintervillage.com/tickets) if you want to enter here. Also expect big crowds.** $15.00 + $1.50 service fee + $2.15 HST = $18.65 total ***I will not be entering*** because have a party to attend tonight. *** ### 🎁 **Details** ✔️ Easy, relaxed walking pace ✔️ Free to join (you’re responsible for any food/drink purchases) ✔️ Dress warmly — it’s December! ✔️ Please *respect your RSVP* so we know who to expect Come enjoy a festive night filled with holiday energy, great company, and the best winter sights in the city! ❄️🎅✨

Contact Alex for location and information.

Eventbrite Link: **[https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/769805277307?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/769805277307?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **Laugh out loud every Thursday at 10 PM! Dynamic duo comedy at Backroom. Toronto's best stand-up. Hilarious night out!** Embark on a laughter-filled journey every Thursday at 10 PM with Toronto's premier Dynamic Duo Comedy Showcase at Backroom Comedy Club. Immerse yourself in the wit of local stand-up talent, promising a hilariously unforgettable night out. Join the laughter movement and experience comedy excellence at its best. Secure your seat now!

**On Friday December 19th, join us for Holiday! An Improvised Musical, a 2024 Dora Award Nominee for Outstanding Production, Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble and Outstanding Creative Direction.** Back for its 3rd year, Holiday! An Improvised Musical is the entertaining festive favorite inspired by Stephen Sondheim’s Company. This one-of-a-kind musical party is entirely made up on the spot, sparked by your suggestions. Watch as a wildly talented cast creates a dazzling night of improvised vignettes exploring love, work, relationships – and the true meaning of the holiday season. It’s the only holiday celebration that guarantees laughs, surprises, and a whole lot of heart. Holiday! is a Bad Dog Theatre production in association with Factory Theatre. **Purchase Holiday! An Improvised Musical on Friday December 19th at 7:30pm.** **COST** Regular Cost: Adults $40, Seniors $25 Rush tickets: $20 available 30 mins prior to show time, 2 per person Meetup Organizer Fee: $5 **Ticket Policy**: All sales are final, no refunds or exchanges. **SIGNING-UP** * **RSVP Yes** **(everyone goes on the waitlist until they post they purchased their tickets)** * **[Purchase](https://purchase.factorytheatre.ca/ChooseSeats/134816)**[ ](https://tickets.mirvish.com/tina/20416)your own ticket by selecting Tickets, Dec 19th at 7:30pm A pre-mail will be sent the day before with my cell and reminder details where to meet and when. RSVPs close 1 day prior and the Waitlist will be removed at that time. Cancellations will result in a No Show and impact future attendance. **MEETUP TIME** **Meet for for dinner at: 5:30pm** at Gusto 101, at 101 Portland St. **Meet me for the show at: 7:15pm** **inside the front doors of Factory Theatre at 125 Bathurst St** **Show Starts: 7:30pm (there is no late entry)** Length: 75 mins (no intermission) Enjoy and please post your comments in the Event after.

Calling all last minute shoppers! Looking for a unique, one of a kind gift? Micak Gallery has hand-made art gifts for that special someone at a variety of price points. Check out our paintings, drawings, photographs, glass art, ceramic mugs, fun unique gifts! The market runs from Wednesday December 17- Tuesday December 23, 11am- 5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm. Free to visit! Micak Gallery carries a wide range of professional artists and is located in the heart of Aurora in St. Andrew's Village Plaza at Yonge St. & Orchard Heights Blvd. Look for the neon pink ART sign! [www.micakgallery.com](https://www.micakgallery.com/) Questions? Contact Katie at info@micakgallery.com or call 905-726-9063

\*\***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** It was a few days before Christmas and all through the house....... Well you all know that story, not a creature or mouse was stirring and all that jazz! But in Cabbagetown things were gearing up for a special Christmas feast! Let's explore one of Toronto's iconic districts and kick off the Christmas season with a walk that recaptures the feeling of the holidays. In just a few days, it's the big day. And Cabbagetown is at the heart of old Toronto, so let's explore. Let's travel back in time and explore Cabbagetown as it was in the year 1899, just days before the dawn of 1900! Sights and sounds of Christmas very different from our own. And as with the other lights tours, residents go above and beyond when decorating their homes and property. The lights are exceptional and deserve to be shown off, so let's look at some of the most popular neighbourhoods when it comes to Christmas lights. And create a little Christmas magic in the meantime! This is an historic as well as a lights tour. The tour begins at the Parliament Street Library at southwest corner of 269 Gerrard Street and Parliament Street. 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**

**Please note we simply list our events on Meetup - the only way to register for an adventures is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/upcoming-adventures-and-events).** Muskoka, Ontario's 'Cottage Country', is one of Canada's best-loved and most beautiful destinations. At this time of year, it's more special than ever. We're visiting during the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year and the turning point for longer days! We’ll start the day exploring *Hardy Lake* on a 8km 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. We’ll finish the day with a *visit to the iconic town of Bracebridge*, giving you the chance to wander, shop, or simply unwind before we head home. It’s built around a dramatic waterfall that cuts right through the downtown, and it's one of the few places in Ontario where you can walk from an independent coffee shop to a riverside lookout in under five minutes. It offers just enough to explore without feeling rushed, making it a perfect final stop to wind down before the drive home. From forests and lakes to great food and panoramic views, this tour showcases the best Muskoka has to offer in just one day. Join us and experience it yourself. **Included in your trip:** \- Return Transport from Toronto \- You'll ride in our comfortable air conditioned coach\, with a TTC accessible pickup location\. \- Expert Guides Our guides are the best in the business. Friendly, encouraging and brimming with qualifications. They'll keep you safe, teach you all about the environment and ensure you have fun as you do it. **Highlights** **Iconic Scenery -** You'll take in some of the region's most beautiful views. Get up close with the Canadian Shield. **Visit Bracebridge -** Stroll the streets of Muskoka's most striking town. **Wildlife Spotting -** If you're lucky, you may spot the beavers and otters that call this region home. **Itinerary** **07:00 - 09:30:** Bus journey to Muskoka **09:30 - 13:30:** Hike the 8km Hardy Lake Trail **14:00 - 15:30:** Visit Bracebridge **15:30 - 18:00:** Return journey to Toronto **Event cost** ***Wilderness Union members:*** $60+HST (optional transport = $60+HST) **Register [here](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/muskoka-winter-solstice).** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community of people like you who will become your new friend group. Members range from 20-40 years old and are a mix of people who've grown up here but their friends are in a different place, newcomers to Canada, and folks from out West who want that lifestyle in Toronto 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/)***

Join WhatsApp Group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HjXRd6aATmg7iBdsDtZS6q](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HjXRd6aATmg7iBdsDtZS6q) Sat Dec 20, 2025 2 Days 1 Night, Niagara Fall Trip Meeting Point: 08:00 am Woodbine Beach Parking Lot, Toronto Reserve Carpool or Driver [https://link.extremelyshy.com/@toronto&1ULIOT](https://link.extremelyshy.com/@toronto&1ULIOT)

Greetings Bird Lovers, Why do we keep going to Long Point, well the main reason is the sheer number of birds we can see, there is no place in Southern Ontario that offers the number of birds you can see at this time of year. Our trips to Long Point have always been exceptional. On our trips we’re treated to an incredible mix of wildlife, Bald Eagles, possibly Snowy Owls, Tufted Titmice, thousands of Sandhill Cranes, and literally thousands of ducks. Every visit feels like stepping into a National Geographic special. Even in the heart of winter, the slowly lengthening days and brighter light remind us that the outdoors is still full of magic, and moments like these are exactly why we keep heading back out into the field. Long Point's significance as part of the Canadian Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, as well as its role as the home to Bird Studies Canada, is underscored by the continuous presence of birds throughout the year. This renowned Ontario wintering ground hosts a myriad of species, including waterfowl, Sandhill Cranes, Tundra Swans, and the occasional surprise guest. From the commonplace Bald Eagles to the captivating Birds of Prey such as Red-tailed Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Harriers, and American Kestrels, each visit unfolds a tapestry of avian wonders. Long Point, a globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), beckons ornithologists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts worldwide. We're eagerly looking forward to our upcoming birding adventure at this extraordinary location. A stop at Ruthven Park promises encounters with the charming Tufted Titmouse and possibly wintering Eastern Bluebirds. Additionally, our itinerary remains flexible, allowing us to stay attuned to local birding news for the possibility of rare bird sightings. Nature's surprises often unfold during this season, prompting us to adapt our plans for the chance to witness something truly extraordinary. Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of birding at Long Point, a journey of exploration, discovery, and sheer magic. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply revel in nature's wonders, all are welcome to join. Binoculars are recommended for an enhanced experience. Our shared love for nature fosters a lively and enjoyable camaraderie within the group. I assure you of smiles, laughter, and a thoroughly delightful day out. Our rendezvous point is the Finch Station Passenger pick-up and Drop-off. Parking Lot at 7:45 am, with departure promptly at 8:00 am. We anticipate returning around 5:00 pm, having explored various areas southwest of Toronto to maximize our chances of encountering special bird species. For those interested, I can accommodate up to 3 Nature Lovers in my vehicle. The cost for my guidance, unveiling the super-hotspots, is $99.00 plus tax, totaling $113. To secure your spot, payment can be made through PayPal or via direct e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. If you opt for the latter, kindly inform me, and I will manually add you to the trip. Let's embark on a day filled with nature's wonders, capturing moments that will linger in our memories. We look forward to sharing this adventure with you!

Celebrate the opening of the Finch LRT by travelling to the end of it. Join us at Clairville where 4 cities meet: Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, and Vaughan. The area is mostly industrial, but that's where some good food places lurk, drawn by cheap rents. The cuisine here is predominantly Indian. See the most ornate Hindu temple in Toronto and check out its museum. The nature portion of the hike goes through the gardens and forests of Humber Arboretum (weather permitting). We'll hike through it before sunset. Then, it's on to the neighbourhood defined by Woodbine Racetrack, not to be confused with the Woodbine-Beaches neighbourhood where it was formerly located. It's notable for a mall with an indoor amusement park. The finishing point is at a casual Somali restaurant, which makes an accessible introduction to the cuisine for the uninitiated. Arrive earlier to check out the flea market because we won't be touring it. **Highlights** 1. Dr Flea's Flea Market (entrance N, depart 1:30pm) 2. Mr. Khaman / Chaiiwala Of London 3. Elsa's Bakery 4. Samosa And Sweet Factory 5. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir 6. BAPS Shayona (depart 3:15pm) 7. Gwalia Sweets / La Ciel / Food World Supermarket 8. Humber College Learning Resource Commons (depart 4:15pm) 9. Barrett Centre For Technology Innovation 10. Humber Arboretum 11. Fantasy Fair 12. Xawaash (arrive 5:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** Clairville > Humber College > Woodbine Racetrack **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1dzBpI8sOd557U_jAfOw7kiaxQkQpXQU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1dzBpI8sOd557U_jAfOw7kiaxQkQpXQU&usp=sharing) If trails are snowy or icy, we will skip Humber Arboretum and go along Highway 27 from Humber College Blvd to Woodbine Mall. The Finch LRT stops close to the start and end of the hike, but a bus transfer is needed: bus 73 from Albion and bus 927 from Humber College. **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 [homepage](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

**Please note we simply list our events on Meetup - the only way to register for an adventures is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/upcoming-adventures-and-events).** ***Another holiday season is upon us and tis the season to eat delicious food, be around the people you love and dance the night away (think wedding DJ, 2000s throw back vibes).*** We have rented out a beautifully cozy pub in the heart of Toronto to eat, drink and be merry. This member party is a dedication to every one of you and this incredible community of nature loving humans. You are encouraged- thought not required- to wear your holiday best, such as suits, formal wear and cocktail dresses. **What to expect with your ticket:** * Buffet style appetizers, main courses and desserts included with your ticket * A professional photo booth to capture you lookin all dapper and such * A bumpin' dance floor with great vibes and music courtesy of our DJ * A bunch of other festive activities, games and surprises to get you rockin around the balsam fir So pour yourself some egg nog, throw on some Stuart Mclean and get yourself ready for the best WU celebration yet! Guests are welcome too! if you know someone spending the holidays alone, bring them along to join the celebration! **Highlights** **3-Course Buffet -** A delicious buffet of appetizers, main courses and desserts to satisfy your every holiday craving **Photo Booth -** A dedicated photo booth running throughout night to capture all of the memories **Games & Dancing -** Games, activities and extra special surprises you won't want to miss! **Itinerary** **19:00 -** Event beings **19:00 - 19:30 -** Welcome, mingle and appies **19:30 - 20:30 -** Dinner **20:30 - 21:30 -** Dessert and activities **21:30 - 02:00 -** Games, surprises & dance party **Event cost** ***Wilderness Union members:*** $40+HST. **Register [here](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/holiday-celebration).** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community of people like you who will become your new friend group. Members range from 20-40 years old and are a mix of people who've grown up here but their friends are in a different place, newcomers to Canada, and folks from out West who want that lifestyle in Toronto 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/)***

RSVP here to join us for BRUNCH Before MARTY SUPREME at the Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall! We have a 2pm reservation so meet the group there around 1:55pm! We’ll have a large table reserved for the group but seating is limited. As a courtesy to the restaurant and your movie group friends, PLEASE….. Only RSVP if you plan to attend. Try to avoid last minute cancelations or no shows. If your plans change, please try to update your RSVP by Friday before the event. If there is a waiting list and you’re on it, please be sure to check the morning of the event to see if any space has opened up. ABOUT THE RESTAURANT: The Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall is set in a historic landmark with multiple bars and dining areas, 24 taps and great globally inspired food. Rooted in the historic beauty of Franklin Park, the Beer Hall was built in the late 1800’s and preserves the original masonry and character as an historic landmark. CBC Beer Hall is located next door to the East Market at 200 Kelton Avenue, Columbus, OH! ABOUT THE MENU: Their Brunch Menu features an array of fun apps, fritters, wings, and tons of breakfast options like steak and eggs, cornmeal pancakes & tenders, breakfast tacos (including a vegan version), skillets, French toast, and more! For the vegetarians/vegans in the group, their menu is super veg friendly with vegan sausage and crispy tofu! BRUNCH MENU: https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#brunch-menu-drinks FOOD MENU: https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu PLAN: We have a 2pm reservation so we’ll meet at the restaurant at 1:55pm! We’ll have one bit table reserved for the group. Seating is limited – please RSVP here to join us for the Brunch portion of this event. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

“Join us in your holiday PJs as we meet at 11:30 AM in front of Cheryl's Cookies at Easton! We’ll stroll, snap festive photos, and explore sweet shops. At 1:00 PM, we have a reservation at Rusty Bucket for lunch. Restrooms and elevators are accessible. Can’t wait to celebrate with you!” "This event is free to join—just cover your own purchases, treats, or lunch if you’d like!"

Hey there Black Love Friends! We're back for the final week of our 2025 **Pre-Resolution Fitness Challenge!** this week we will be at Franklin Park Conservatiry! Every Sat for the rest of 2025 we will be hosting a new challenge at a new park where all fitness levels are welcomed. What a great way to get a jump start on those fitness resolutions and make some new connections in the process. Don't wait reserve your spot today!