13 things to do in Toronto today: Saturday, February 29

Happy Leap Day, Toronto.

Celebrate the shortest month being just a little longer before we plunge headfirst into March. We’ve got you covered with some great events this Saturday, February 29.

Toronto FC Season Opening Party

What: Toronto FC is opening the season against San Jose Earthquakes, and while they won’t be here in the city, you can head to The Congregation to enjoy an evening of local footie and camaraderie all hosted by Captain Morgan.

The Congregation is also open to public over the weekend, from 10 am to 6 on Saturday and Sunday.

When: Saturday, February 29
Time: Viewing party at 4 pm
Where: The Congregation — 150 Symes Road

The Negroes are Congregating

What: The Negroes are Congregating poses an unapologetic and impolite perspective about the ongoing effects of racism in Canada and around the world. Delivered through a fusion of spoken word, satire, and soulful dialect, audiences are invited to experience raw truths up close and personal — leaving them with an understanding of what it means to be Black, proud, and ready. This is the opening night, and the show runs from March 3 to 15.

When: Saturday, February 29 (Opening show)
Time: 2 pm
Where: Mainspace Theatre — 16 Ryerson Avenue
Admission: Tickets start $17, available online

Hamilton

What: Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton is the story of America then, as told by America now. Resale tickets are available.

When: On until May 17
Where: Ed Mirvish Theatre — 244 Victoria Street
Admission: Available tickets start around $499, available online

The Beaches

What: Due to the overwhelming demand for tickets this musical extravaganza just added a third night at The Danforth Music Hall. These local heroes are coming back to party hearty and bring their awesome alt-rock to the masses.

When: On until March 1
Time: 7 to 11 pm
Where: The Danforth Music Hall — 147 Danforth Avenue
Admission: Start at $42, available online

Jungle Book

What: A wild ride awaits in this inventive and timely take on the beloved classic. An immersive multi-media adaptation, Jungle Book will transport you from the urban jungle to Mowgli’s childhood in the forests of India – with Baloo the Bear, Bagheera the Panther, and more of your favourites along for the journey.

When: On until March 21
Where: Young People’s Theatre — 165 Front Street East
Admission: Tickets start at $10, available online

Skating at Harbourfront Centre

What: When the weather starts to drop, it means it’s officially time to go skating. And it just so happens that the city’s most scenic rink has opened its doors for the winter season. The Natrel Rink is complete with heated indoor change rooms and its own rink-side bar and grill for those interested in getting a snack post-skate. The best part? Skating at the Harbourfront rink is totally free. 

When: Now until spring
Time: Monday to Thursday, 9 am to 10 pm; Friday and Saturday, 9 am to 11 pm; Sunday, 9 am to 10 pm
Where: Harbourfront Centre — 235 Queens Quay West
Admission: Skating is free

Winter Stations 2020

What: A massive public art festival, the winning pieces were selected from 100s of submissions. This year’s theme is beyond the five senses and will feature some of the most interesting and imaginative creations from some increadible creative minds.

When: On until March 30
Where: Woodbine Beach — 1675 Lake Shore Blvd East
Admission: Free

Escape this 9 to 5

What: It’s an Office themed escape room. Test your problem-solving abilities as you solve puzzles and trivia, while desperately trying to burst out of your owrk place cage.

When: On until May 17
Where: 1444 Dupont Street
Admission: Two to four players, $30 each; five to six players, $28; seven to eight players, $26

Kuumba 2020

What: Kuumba, one of Toronto’s longest-running celebrations of Black History Month, marks its 25th anniversary this year. In 2020, Kuumba25 examines the past through cultural expression, ritual and memorabilia, while re-envisioning identities through art, culture and education.

When: On until February 29
Where: 235 Queens Quay West
Admission: Some events are ticketed, others free, check online

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Vancouver Canucks

What: Nothing like a healthy sports rivalry between cities. Friendly ribbing, high stakes competition, and mutual respect between adversaries. That being said, Vancouver’s horrible team will be in the city tonight to lose to the Leafs.

When: Saturday, February 29
Time: 7 pm
Where: Scotiabank Place
Admission: Start at $174, available online

All Night Long: Beatles Vs. Stones

What: In a British Invasion face-off, watch a six-piece band performing both Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Let it Bleed, along with favourite hits from both bands. Come to decide once and for all who are the Kings of Rock.

When: Saturday, February 29
Time: 8:30 pm
Where: The Rec Room — 255 Bremner Boulevard
Admission: $15, available online

The Dr. Seuss Experience

What: It’s back. After selling out ridiculously fast, organizers have put together another run. Get ready to take a walk down memory lane, as beloved children’s writer, Dr. Seuss’ incredible creations will be appearing in a large interactive exhibit. The 15,000-sq-ft exhibition is a photogenic playground of interesting rooms that recreate the feeling and wonder of walking through a storybook.

When: On until March 22
Where: Square One — 100 City Centre Drive
Admission: $39.99, available online

Cooking Cannabis Classics

What: Learn to decarboxylate, infuse and cook a recipe in a super fun and hands-on three hour cannabis cooking workshop. You’ll also get to take home the oil you make in class for your home kitchen. ID is 100% required for everyone.

When: Saturday, February 29
Time: 11:30 am to 2:30 pm
Where: Skyloft Food Studio — 477 Richmond Street West
Admission: $85, available online