Fun Family Day Activities to Try in Toronto
Good news! Family Day is coming up on Monday, February 20th and it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and have some fun with your loved ones. If you’re looking for some exciting Family Day ideas, look no further. We’ve put together a list of some great Family Day activities to try in Toronto this year.
Image: Art Gallery of Ontario
Get Creative at the Art Gallery of Ontario
Do your kids like making art? Then a trip to the AGO during Family Day weekend might be right up their alley. The AGO has 4 days of fun, artistic activities planned that include storytelling, screenings and making art. Listen as author Valene Campbell shares stories based on her acclaimed series The Amazing Zoe, have a family portrait taken by Toronto lens-based artists Roya DelSol and Bidemi Oloyede, enjoy a family-friendly gallery tour at the museum, and best of all, get creative and make some art!
Feel Whimsical at IceFest in Bloor Yorkville
If you’re not afraid of the cold, gather your family, bundle up and head over to Toronto’s premier district, Bloor Yorkville – near our 1 Yorkville condominium. The neighbourhood will be undergoing a magical transformation as it morphs into IceFest, an ice sculpture festival. Take a self-guided tour of 40 one-of-a-kind ice sculptures inspired by castles, mermaids and cosmic journeys. Then, head over to the Village of Yorkville Park to enjoy live ice carving demonstrations, an Ice Wall with projections and an Ice Lounge.
Image: Young People’s Theatre
See a World Premiere at the Young People’s Theatre
Treat your kids to a day at the theatre with the world premiere of The Darkest Dark. Based on Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield’s book of the same name, this groundbreaking and magical story is about a 9-year-old boy who learns to overcome his fear of the dark by dreaming of becoming an astronaut. The whole family will enjoy this fun play and it’s a wonderful way to introduce your kids to Toronto’s thriving theatre scene.
Image: Winter Glow
Celebrate the Magic of Winter at Winter Glow
Head to Black Creek Pioneer Village for a 2 km-forested trail of winter magic. Walk or drive through a winter wonderland of ice sculptures, snow carvings, illuminated structures, life-sized snow globes, performers and more, with a light show synchronized to music. Talk about magical!
Have Fun with Science
Visit the Ontario Science Centre, near our Bartley Towns community, for a fun and interactive weekend with the entire family. Watch an IMAX film in the OMNIMAX dome, enjoy live scientific demonstrations, take a walk through the Living Earth rainforest, crawl through a cave, and learn about a variety of topics ranging from the environment and outer space to the human body and more.
Image: The Bentway
Go Skating at the Unique Figure-Eight Bentway Skate Trail
Celebrate the end of the winter season at The Bentway with a free, all-ages DJ Skate Party. Skate to the upbeat music of local DJs, indulge in some delicious treats including beaver tails and hot chocolate, compete in a self-guided scavenger hunt, and participate in a family-friendly coding workshop in the Fort York Visitor Centre. If you’re downtown, make sure you don’t miss this fun event!
Spend a Cozy Day at the Movies
Snack on salty, buttery popcorn and enjoy family movies at Hot Docs. Their Family Day Cinema Series includes the classic Space Jam with Michael Jordan, Good Night Oppy, a story about space cadets on an outer-space odyssey, and the documentary Handle with Care: The Legend of the Notic Streetball Crew, the real-life story of an underdog basketball crew from Vancouver who gained recognition during a 2001 NBA-sponsored tournament. If you’d like to stay indoors and cozy while enjoying some special family time, this is a great event to check out!
Are you planning to try any of these Family Day activities? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
The 9 Best Holiday Events and Activities in Toronto
Are you seeking some fun and festive things to do in Toronto this holiday season? The holidays are one of the best times of the year. From sipping hot apple cider at artisan Christmas markets to ice skating with friends and family at Nathan Phillips Square, there are so many magical and wintery holiday events and activities to enjoy in Toronto! There’s also a plethora of immersive winter wonderland experiences, glittering lights, and gorgeous Christmas décor to feast your eyes on. While there are many wonderful holiday activities to choose from, we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite festivals, events, and markets to visit over the holidays this year in Toronto.
- Northern Lights, Exhibition Place / December 1st – January 8th
Brand new this year comes an immersive experience that wraps you up in the lights, sights, sounds, and feeling of the holidays. Located at Exhibition Place, Northern Lights will showcase larger-than-life holiday décor and light installations, dynamic photo opportunities, a vendor market, festive games, and memorable selfies with Santa and the Grinch. Bring your festive spirit and explore all you love about the most wonderful time of the year. (This event is in partnership with SickKids, and a portion of every Northern Lights ticket sold will be donated to The Hospital for Sick Children.)
Image: Distillery Winter Village
- Distillery Winter Village, The Distillery District / November 18th – December 31st
Nestled amongst the historic Distillery District’ s 65+ local shops, cafés, and restaurants, you’ll find the mesmerizing Distillery Winter Village. A classic holiday must, the Distillery Winter Village features vendor cabins offering specially curated seasonal items and gifts, plus delicious food cabins. Enjoy strolling the cobblestone streets under a canopy of lights while you select the perfect gift for that special someone.
Image: The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail
- The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail, 1000 Murray Ross Parkway / November 12th – December 23rd
The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail is back to make this the Christmas of the century. If you’re looking for a socially distant holiday experience, or want to avoid the cold, this drive-along experience is the perfect way to join the holiday cheer. The Canadian Tire Christmas Trail takes guests on an enchanted 1.5-kilometre journey through thousands of twinkling lights, interactive displays, and entertainment. Guests will be immersed in the magic of Christmas and can capture their beloved annual photo with Santa in a memorable way, all from the comfort of their own vehicle.
- Cavalcade of Lights, Nathan Phillips Square / November 26th – January 7th
Experience the joy of the holiday season at Nathan Phillips Square with the much-loved Cavalcade of Lights. Inspired by international fire, lantern, and light festivals, this year’s festivities will transform Toronto’s City Hall into a dazzling wonderland each night until 10 p.m. Enjoy the dazzling Christmas tree, go skating at the city’s most iconic rink, and bask in the glow of thousands of energy-efficient bulbs.
Image: Holiday Fair in the Square
- Holiday Fair in the Square, Nathan Phillips Square / December 2nd – 23rd
Holiday Fair in the Square is returning to the heart of downtown Toronto! In support of Epilepsy Toronto, the Fair will be working with the City of Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights to transform Nathan Phillips Square into a magical winter wonderland. Featuring an artisan marketplace with one-of-a-kind gifts, tasty fare, a polar bar with drinks to keep you warm, Santa, and a holiday midway, Holiday Fair in the Square is a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.
Image: WinterFest
- WinterFest, Canada’s Wonderland / Select Nights, Nov. 18th – Dec. 31st
Canada’s Wonderland transforms into a magical, winter wonderland for WinterFest – an immersive holiday experience for the whole family. This annual holiday event features ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, a dozen live shows and holiday entertainment, spectacular lights, and hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees throughout the park. Explore the larger-than-life Christmas-themed areas, enjoy festive food, shop seasonal merchandise, and make special memories with your friends and family.
Image: Glow Toronto
7. Glow Toronto, Toronto Congress Centre / December 1st – December 31st
Step out from the cold and into the warmth and magic of Glow Christmas! At Canada’s premium indoor Christmas festival, you and your loved ones are invited to eat delicious food, sip on holiday-inspired drinks, shop for unique holiday gifts from local creative artisans at the market, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, enjoy story time with Santa’s helpers, and then visit with Santa himself – all beneath the glow of a million twinkling lights. This year’s light display theme ‘Around the World’ will take you on a magical journey through six countries.
Image: Fairmont Royal York
8. The Thirsty Elf, Fairmont Royal York / November 17th – December 17th (Thurs-Sat)
Kitschy décor, Christmas sweaters, and cheerful, festive cocktails – what more does one need to get into the Christmas spirit? Make your spirits bright this season at the Fairmont Royal York’s annual holiday-themed pop-up, The Thirsty Elf. Walk-in guests are invited for a 1-hour seating time, making this is the perfect stopping place for a festive drink with friends or colleagues. Click here for the cocktail menu.
- Christmas at the Castle, Casa Loma / Select dates, December 2nd – January 2nd
Holiday Lights, Casa Loma / Select dates, December 1st – January 8th
This year, Toronto’s only castle is hosting two spectacular holiday events you don’t want to miss: Christmas at the Castle and Holiday Lights. At Christmas at the Castle, Casa Loma guests are surrounded by holiday magic throughout the castle, which is dazzling with holiday décor, including a 40-foot tall tree in the Great Hall and eight other signature trees. Kids are invited to visit Santa in his castle workshop and participate in festive arts and crafts. A second event happening in the evenings is the enchanting Holiday Lights Tour, where you’re invited to wander through a spectacular lighting display in the gardens and castle tunnels, all decorated for the festive season. Designed as a 2-km self-guided walk, guests stroll through the property’s grounds while enjoying the remarkable decorations, outdoor lighting displays, and live performances.
Which holiday event are you most looking forward to? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
BAZIS is a Toronto real estate development company specialized in new construction condos for sale and pre-construction condos in Downtown Toronto. We are committed to excellence in every facet of the commercial and residential real estate development process. Combining visionary architecture, design, marketing and construction with the epitome of corporate integrity and environmental responsibility, BAZIS has become a major force in articulating Toronto’s ever-evolving skyline.
The Best Pet-Friendly Décor and Accessories for Your Home
If you have a cat, dog, or other pet, you know firsthand how much joy and fun a pet can bring to your life. Pets add a lot of comfort, companionship, and love to our lives, and during the last couple years of the pandemic, pet ownership in Toronto has increased even more. It seems like everyone has a pet these days, and that’s a great thing!
However rewarding it can be to have a pet, though, they can do a number on our homes. From having to sweep and vacuum daily to keep up with a shedding dog to replacing furniture that a cat has clawed, taking care of your home or condo can be a lot more work when you have a pet. Another potential downside of having a pet is on the aesthetic front – a lot of the items that pets need, from food and water dishes to crates and toys, typically aren’t the most stylish. It doesn’t have to be this way, though! Today, we’ve rounded up our top picks for stylish, chic, pet-friendly décor and accessories for your home or condo, along with some tips on how to keep your home both pet-friendly and beautiful. Because you can have a pet and a gorgeous home, too!
Consider Beauty at Every Turn
Many items for pets are designed exclusively for functionality and practicality, with little attention to design and aesthetics. But if you consider your home’s design and how well an item will complement it before adding new items to your home, you’d be surprised at how many high-quality, aesthetically-pleasing items are available.
For example, your dog’s food and water bowls can be chic and stylish – since they live on the floor of your home day in and day out, and you’ll be looking at them daily, this is an easy place to start. Wild One and Best Cat have great options, or you can choose stylish bowls of your choice – after all, a dog or cat’s dishes aren’t inherently different from human dishes! You can also find crates that are minimalist and stylish, such as this one from Revol, and attractive pet beds, including from Brooklyn and Hound (available in three stunning colours to suit any home décor style, these plush, meticulously handcrafted leather dog beds are the statement piece your house had been waiting for!).
Sometimes, pets need specialty items that simply aren’t attractive – for example, pet stairs for an aging pet that wants to make its way up onto the couch or bed. If you allow your pets onto the furniture but don’t want the eyesore of pet stairs, consider adding an ottoman next to your couch or bed instead.
Pick Beautiful Toys
Pig’s ears and rawhide bones may be universally adored by dogs, but they’re unattractive and smelly items to have kicking around your home. Better-looking (and more healthy for your pet) options include rubber toys like the Kong or these chic toys from Wild One.
For cats, opt for a stylish scratching post/climbing tree combo that’s chic and well-designed, like this one from Archie & Oscar, or the Zen Style Rattan Cat Tree from Happy & Polly. Beauty and functionality CAN coexist!
Protect Your Furniture
Pet-friendly fabrics include leather, pleather, and Ultrasuede, a machine-washable microfiber that feels as smooth and seductive as real suede. If you have furniture in other fabrics (such as silk or velvet, for example) and want to keep it protected, invest in a few machine-washable throw blankets that you can toss onto your couch or bed before your dog jumps onto it. The PupProtector Waterproof Throw Blanket in Brown Faux Cowhide, for example, is a chic option. This will make keeping your home clean and fresh-smelling a breeze.
Another way to protect your furniture is to opt for furniture with metal framing and legs, rather than wooden legs, to minimize puppies chewing on it.
Create Smart Storage Options
Having dedicated storage space for your pet’s items is a great way to keep your home looking tidy. Much like children’s toys, pet toys and accessories can sometimes seem to explode, taking over a room or even your whole home – so it’s best to keep them organized and contained.
Choose storage options that mesh well with your home’s existing interior design. You might want to consider baskets or clear plastic storage containers. Including one by the front door is a great idea, so that your dog’s leash, harness, waste bags, and any Frisbees or balls you might want to bring to the dog park are all readily accessible.
Make Vacuuming Fun
There’s no way around it – if you have a pet, regular vacuuming is a must. Keep your home free of pet hair and dust bunnies by investing in a high-quality vacuum machine that makes the job quick and easy. Some amazing options are the Dyson Ball Animal 2 Pro (an upright vacuum named for its miraculous ability to suck up animal hair) or a Roomba (which is an investment but a powerful way to help keep on top of vacuuming without any effort). Having a smaller, handheld vacuum easily accessible for quick vacuuming and spot-cleaning furniture is also a great way to make everyday vacuuming less of a hassle.
If you can, choose rugs that are durable, low-pile, and stain-resistant (wool and carpet tiles are great options), and opt for hard flooring surfaces instead of carpeting wherever possible.
Keeping your pet clean and well-groomed will also help to keep your house or condo cleaner for longer. Keep their nails trimmed to minimize scratches on floors and upholstery, and brush and bathe them regularly to remove loose hair before it ends up all over your home. Invest in a regular schedule of doggy spa visits or some high-quality pet shampoo to make the job easier and more enjoyable.
Do you have a pet? What are your favourite pet-friendly décor items and accessories? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
BAZIS is a Toronto real estate development company specialized in new construction condos for sale and pre-construction condos in Downtown Toronto. We are committed to excellence in every facet of the commercial and residential real estate development process. Combining visionary architecture, design, marketing and construction with the epitome of corporate integrity and environmental responsibility, BAZIS has become a major force in articulating Toronto’s ever-evolving skyline.
The Top 8 Halloween Events in Toronto This Year
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” – okay, wrong holiday song, but the sentiment still rings true, for some people anyway! Don’t get us wrong, Christmas is a fantastic holiday, but Halloween is also pretty great. Halloween is one of the most fun and creative holidays of the year. Everyone can express their individuality with Halloween costumes, carving jack-o-lanterns, making festive treats and putting up ghoulish décor. It’s spooky and fun. Halloween in Toronto is even more fun. With endless events and parties, there’s no shortage of things to do to get into the scary spirit. Whether you like petrifying frights or something a little more PG-13, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our list of the 8 top Halloween events in Toronto this year.
Images: Screemers (Left); Casa Loma (Top Right); The Haunted Walk (Bottom Right)
- Haunted Houses
Toronto has a wide range of haunted houses and grounds to explore leading up to Halloween. If you enjoy being terrified by monsters and ghouls and screaming your lungs out, you’re in luck! Check out Canada’s Wonderland’s Halloween Haunt or Canada’s premier scream park Screemers. Neither of these events is for the faint of heart, so be prepared to be scared and bring along a friend for support. - Legends of Horror and Zombie Apocalypse
Legends of Horror at Toronto’s Casa Loma is a haunted house with a twist. The castle grounds are transformed into an immersive theatrical experience, in which the audience walks at their own pace through a two-kilometre trail. Throughout the one-hour experience, guests are immersed in a variety of theatrically designed sets, each of which introduces characters into the environmental theatre. New this year is an additional immersive experience called Zombie Apocalypse, a 30-minute event featuring live actors that promises to take the fear factor to the next level. Eek! - Ghost Tours, multiple locations
Do you enjoy a good scary story? What about real-life scary stories that took place in our very city of Toronto? Haunted Walks are a great way to get out, stretch your legs, and learn about the more sinister history of our city.
Images: Night of Lights (Top Left); Black Creek Pioneer Village (Bottom Left); Candlelight (Right)
- Halloween Night of Lights and Pumpkinville, CF Sherway Gardens
Located in the parking lot of CF Sherway Gardens in Etobicoke, Halloween Night of Lights is a more light-hearted, family-friendly Halloween experience. Walk through Halloween-themed LED light installations while listening to the Halloween classics. Make sure to have your camera ready! Afterwards, visit Pumpkinville (included in the price of admission) to see thousands of carved pumpkins, have some snacks and drinks, and have fun at the midway. - Toronto After Dark Film Festival
“Do you like scary movies?” Then the Toronto After Dark Film Festival is right up your alley. This festival is one of the world’s leading showcases of new horror, sci-fi and action movies, enjoyed by over 10,000 attendees each year, including fans, filmmakers, press and industry. Taking place at Toronto’s Scotiabank Theatre, this spooky film festival is the perfect prequel for Halloween! - Halloween at the Village, Black Creek Pioneer Village
Do you have little ones? Over the next few weekends, Black Creek Pioneer Village will be transformed into a spooky village with lots of fun activities for the young and the young at heart. Help with grisly experiments during the Slimy Science Show. Spill your guts to the Village’s doctor, while learning the gruesome secrets of 19th-century medicine. Learn witchcraft and wizardry skills, including a powerful recipe for concocting witch’s brew. Uncover the mysteries of the future through fortune telling, and then try to survive a terrifying puppet show. Make your own monster mask, and stop by the Fake Frights station. There’s so much to do here! - Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics, Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto
Listen as the Listeso Quartet performs Halloween classics, including Michael Jackson’s Thriller and Ray Parker Jr.’s theme song from Ghostbusters, in one of the most iconic venues in Toronto. A unique and one-of-a-kind experience, hundreds of candles will illuminate the venue, creating a serene atmosphere that will enhance your listening experience. Tickets will sell out fast, so get them today!
Image: BlogTO - Halloween on Church, Church Street
Are you one of those people who loves Halloween but waits until the last minute and then scrambles to find a party to go to? Then Halloween on Church is the perfect place for you! This legendary party sees thousands of Halloween enthusiasts dressed in some of their best costumes take over a section of Church Street. The block party shuts down a section of the street to cars, making it a pedestrian-only road starting at 6:30 p.m. on Halloween night.
Image: BlogTOWhich Halloween event are you most looking forward to? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
The Best Fall Festivals Happening in Toronto This Year
Image: Toronto International Festival of Authors
It’s officially fall! The leaves are changing, the air is getting cooler and with that a new season emerges with a different vibe. It’s time to put on our cozy sweaters, jackets and gloves and head out and do what Torontonians do best – have some fun! This autumn, Toronto has some pretty fantastic festivals and events lined up. From comedy shows to film festivals, music and art events to Halloween fun, there’s something for everyone.
Image: Trevor Noah
Just for Laughs Toronto – Multiple Venues (September 22-30)
Get ready to laugh until you cry, as the much-loved Just for Laughs Comedy Festival is back in Toronto. This hilarious festival is world-renowned and originated in Montreal, Quebec. As the largest international comedy festival in the world, it attracts visitors from abroad and the world’s funniest comedians. Headliners this year include Trevor Noah, John Mulaney, Amy Schumer, Trixie & Katya, and Issa Rae.
Toronto International Festival of Authors – Harbourfront Centre (September 22-October 2)
Attention, book lovers! The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) is on now at Harbourfront Centre and other venues. As Canada’s largest literary festival, this special event provides engaging opportunities to meet, hear and learn from the world’s best authors and to celebrate the power of stories.
Queen West Art Crawl – Online &Trinity Bellwoods (September 19-25)
The Queen West Art Crawl (QWAC) is a festival that takes place in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city. A charitable organization that seeks to raise funds for artists, this multicultural and inclusive festival was designed to promote the culture, art and diversity of the city through art installations, live performances and tasty food. The highlight of the QWAC is an outdoor art exhibition that takes place in Trinity Bellwoods, featuring art, live music and a free kids’ zone.
The Queen West Art Crawl is an inclusive event and features a 2SLGBT+ friendly kids’ zone and a main stage with music where 50% or more of the performers are BIPOC. To ensure that underserved populations are strongly represented, the QWAC partners with groups like Workman Arts and the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto.
Image: Canada’s Wonderland
Halloween Haunt – Canada’s Wonderland (September 30-October 31)
Are you looking for something to do or a place to scream? Canada’s largest Halloween Haunt returns to Canada’s Wonderland with a sinister transformation, turning the amusement park into a park filled with Halloween attractions, unforgettable thrills and unspeakable horror.
Immerse yourself in the nightmare of Halloween Haunt, where the streets are filled with terror, including hundreds of monsters, horrifying scare zones and mazes, macabre street performers, live music, night rides, and electrifying live shows.
Image: Michael Mavian
Nuit Blanche – Multiple Venues (Sunset October 1st-Sunrise October 2nd)
Grab a coffee or hot chocolate, and roam the city all night long with other Torontonians! Nuit Blanche, Toronto’s all-night celebration of contemporary art, returns from sunset on October 1 to sunrise on October 2 for its biggest event ever. This year, the citywide festival is expanding to include art exhibitions in Etobicoke and North York, in addition to downtown and Scarborough, and the anticipated event features more than 150 artworks by local, national and international artists.
Led by inaugural Artistic Director Dr. Julie Nagam, Nuit Blanche’s curatorial theme this year is The Space Between Us, which invites artists to transform the city in creative ways by sharing stories about their connection to place, while bridging cultures and connecting to communities and the environment.
Image: imagineNative
imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival 2022 – Multiple Venues (October 18-23)
Come celebrate Indigenous art and cinema at the 23rd annual imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival. This truly special festival celebrates Indigenous storytelling in film and video, audio, and digital and interactive art through screenings, exhibitions, special events, and more. This year the festival will feature over 100 short films curated into 13 programs, plus 17 feature films by Indigenous creators from around the world.
imagineNATIVE is also pleased to announce the return of TD Free Friday at the 2022 Festival. Thanks to TD Bank’s generous contribution, tickets to all screenings on Friday, October 21, 2022, will be free to provide a greater opportunity for a larger number of individuals to experience imagineNATIVE’s programming.
Image: Toronto After Dark
Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2022 – Scotiabank Theatre (Oct. 19-23)
Prepared to be scared, thrilled or fascinated at this year’s Toronto After Dark Film Festival. This festival is one of the world’s leading showcases of new horror, sci-fi and action movies, enjoyed by over 10,000 attendees each year, including fans, filmmakers, press and industry. Returning to live and in-person screenings at Toronto’s Scotiabank Theatre, this spooky film festival is the perfect prequel for Halloween!
Image: Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair – Exhibition Place (November 4-13)
If you’re looking for something a little more wholesome with fun for the whole family, head out to the largest indoor agricultural and equestrian event in the city! The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair takes place every November in the City of Toronto. Featuring cute farm animals, the best in agriculture, fresh local food and equestrian competitions from across the country, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is jam-packed with homegrown fun.
Which fall festival are you most looking forward to? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
BAZIS is a Toronto Real Estate Development Company specialized in new construction condos for sale and pre-construction condos in Downtown Toronto. We are committed to excellence in every facet of the commercial and residential real estate development process. Combining visionary architecture, design, marketing and construction with the epitome of corporate integrity and environmental responsibility, BAZIS has become a major force in articulating Toronto’s ever-evolving skyline.
8 Delicious Hors d’Oeuvres Ideas for Summer Entertaining
Are you planning a get-together or special event this summer and want to delight your guests with some memorable food? Hors d’oeuvres are a fantastic way to do just that. Of course, chips, deviled eggs and veggies with dip are classic snacks to serve at your gatherings, but sometimes you want to give your guests something to talk about. When preparing hors d’oeuvres, presentation is key. Hors d’oeuvres should be enticing and beautiful. So, if you really want to wow your guests, relax and take a little extra care when preparing these gorgeous dishes. We’ve put together a collection of 8 absolutely delicious hors d’oeuvres to serve at your gatherings this summer. We know you’ll love them!
Image: Con Poulos
1. Grilled Squash Ribbons and Prosciutto with Mint Dressing
This hors d’oeuvre is simple, elegant and delicious. Grilled zucchini and squash ribbons on skewers are fantastic because they’re charred and crispy on the outside but juicy and flavourful on the inside. The mint dressing is zesty and refreshing.
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Taste of Home
2. Meatballs with Chimichurri Sauce
Meatballs are always a huge hit at parties and these chimichurri meatballs are sure to make a splash! You can make them quickly using store-bought or you can slow cook them to perfection. Combined with this delicious South-American sauce made of fresh parsley and cilantro, they’re hearty with a pop of flavour.
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Love and Lemons
3. Caprese Skewers
Who doesn’t love caprese salad? This colourful summer hors d’oeuvre is a playful take on the famous Italian salad. Made of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and sweet balsamic glaze, these caprese skewers are bright, fresh, and juicy. Use different-coloured tomatoes and alternate with basil leaves to create a cheerful and colourful dish.
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Recettes D’Ici
4. Scallop Vol-au-Vent Bites with Creamy Honey Sauce
This scallop vol-au-vent is a small hollow puff pastry that’s light and buttery, and filled with scallops and mouth-watering cream honey sauce. Stunning to look at it on a plate, this delicious, savoury and eye-catching amuse-bouche is sure to be a hit!
Click here for the recipe.
Image: The Food Network
5. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Figs
These bacon-wrapped stuffed figs are the perfect combination of sweet and savoury. The rich salty flavour of the bacon paired with the tart sweetness of the figs combined with creamy goat cheese is to die for! Make sure to make extra, as these will go fast!
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Inspired by Charm
6. Walnut and Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are so versatile. Rich and hearty in flavour, these walnut and blue cheese stuffed portobellos are a fantastic amuse-bouche and tasty seasonal treat. The blue cheese is pungent with a sharp flavour, while the walnut adds a bit of crunch and earthiness to the dish.
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Julie Blanner
7. Zesty Tequila Lime Shrimp Skewers
If you love margaritas, you’ll love this light and delicious shrimp recipe! With its zesty, fresh citrus flavour, it’s the essence of a margarita in shrimp form. Quick and easy to assemble, these simple skewers look and taste great when charred on the grill.
Click here for the recipe.
Image: Julie Blanner
8. Handheld Endive Salad
This hors d’oeuvre is one you can feel great serving. It’s gorgeous, healthy and bursting with flavour. With creamy Gorgonzola cheese, nutty walnuts and parsley or chives to garnish, it’s refreshing, simple and easy to make. Endive lettuce is also easy to hold, so it’s the perfect bite for your guests.
Click here for the recipe.
Which hors d’oeuvres are you most excited to try? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
The Top Patios in Toronto You Need to Check Out This Summer
Summer is here. The days are long, the temperature’s warm, and there’s nothing more enjoyable than hitting up a patio with a cold, refreshing drink in hand. Toronto is home to so many incredible patios, each equipped with its own unique vibe and menu. Whether you’re looking for an elegant night out, panoramic views of the city, delicious international cuisine, or a fun buzzing party, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our list of the top patios in Toronto you need to check out this summer.
Lavelle
(Images: chezlavelle)
Located in the exclusive King West neighbourhood, Lavelle is a one-of-a-kind landmark where Toronto’s finest come to rub shoulders. The luxurious space boasts a massive 16,000 square foot patio with one of the longest rooftop pools in North America. It features a lounge bar with cabanas and a dining room serving Brazilian-Japanese creations by Chef Daniel Ken, all with gorgeous unobstructed 360-degree views of the city. Take your day into night with a dip in one of their three luxury pools and enjoy a cocktail in a private cabana.
Kōst
(Image: Kōst)
Sitting 44 stories above Toronto’s bustling Entertainment District is Bisha Hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant Kōst. Inspired by the Baja Peninsula, Kōst offers California coastline vibes, with al fresco dining, an infinity pool and panoramic views. Featuring seasonal menus with modern cuisine like seared Atlantic salmon and refreshing signature cocktails, guests are welcome seven days a week.
Trattoria Nervosa
(Image: Yellow Pages)
Trattoria Nervosa is hands-down the best patio in Yorkville. Often frequented by celebrities due to its reputation and unique design, Trattoria Nervosa serves Southern Italian food that’s sure to leave a smile on your face. With mouth-watering home-cooked food and a curated wine list to complement your meal, it’s the perfect place for special occasions or a night out drinking sangria with friends. Centrally located in Toronto’s high-end shopping district, this iconic yellow restaurant is a neighbourhood gem.
Baro
(Images: Baro)
Located on the 4th floor of Baro Toronto, Baro’s rooftop patio is the ideal place for a Latin-infused culinary experience. With an upbeat and casual atmosphere, great music and delicious food, this patio is a popular hangout that gives off strong Miami vibes. The menu is cooked on an outdoor charcoal BBQ, and is perfect for sharing with friends. With striking décor and plants galore, Baro is guaranteed to be a fun night out!
Amsterdam Brewhouse
(Image: OpenTable)
If you’re looking for something a little more laidback and close to the water, look no further than the Amsterdam Brewhouse. Located on the Toronto Waterfront, just steps away from the CN Tower, the Amsterdam Brewhouse has 4 large patios that offer landscape views of the Toronto Islands. While providing a great collection of beers and food, the patio is open-concept and wraps around the building, ensuring everyone has a seat by the water.
Chef’s Hall
(Image: chefshallto)
Chef’s Hall is Canada’s first chef-driven community market. A unique and interactive space, Chef’s Hall spans 18,000 square feet and offers 5 patios, 4 full-service bars and space for over 1,000 guests. With food from 17 of Toronto’s top chefs inspired by international cuisines, Chef’s Hall is heaven for Toronto foodies. It also boasts large entertainment spaces with 4 unique vibes: The Beer Hall (a lively energetic space with DJ and performances), The Main Hall (a formal place to host best-in-class gatherings and cocktail receptions), The Courtyard Patio (one of Toronto’s largest and sunniest patios with BBQs, games and amazing music) and the Aperitivo Patio (a fresh space to enjoy Aperol Spritz cocktails and delicious snacks).
W Toronto
(Image: Marriott Bonvoy)
This luxury hotel by Marriott Bonvoy is set to open its doors on July 21st, which means you’re first in line for some epic views of the city. Located at the famous cross-section of Bloor St. and Yonge St. in Yorkville, gaze out over Toronto while savouring the delights of W Toronto’s Rooftop Bar and Restaurant. Their Mediterranean-inspired late-night scene is set to dazzle with delectable food and specialty vermouth and amaro craft cocktails.
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Celebrating Easter and Passover: What’s the Difference?
This weekend, families across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area will gather for Easter and Passover celebrations. Both are springtime holidays with religious origins, and both share themes of liberation and triumph, involve buying a lot of eggs, and include celebratory feasts with families and loved ones. But have you ever wondered what the differences are between Easter and Passover, and how they are typically celebrated? Read on to learn more.
Each year, as spring blooms to life, a feeling of hope and renewal arises in our hearts. This renewal of nature mirrors the spring festivals of Easter and Passover, both of which hold key themes of hope, celebration, and redemption.
Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, on Easter Sunday. Easter is connected to the Passover and Exodus from Egypt recorded in the Old Testament through the Last Supper and the crucifixion that preceded the resurrection.
Before Easter Sunday, Christians also mark several other days of historical and biblical importance during Holy Week. These include Palm Sunday, Holy Monday and Holy Tuesday, Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday (also known as Black Saturday).
Palm Sunday was the day that Jesus arrived in Jerusalem. It’s said that the people who came out to greet him on that day threw palm branches on the road, which led to the tradition of Anglican and Roman Catholic churches distributing miniature crosses made of palm leaves among the people – a tradition which continues to this day.
Maundy Thursday was the day on which Jesus had his Last Supper – a Passover meal that he shared with his disciples, and which included wine and bread. Good Friday was the day on which Jesus was crucified to death and it is a day of mourning. Easter Sunday is the main day of the festival, and this was the day when God resurrected Jesus from his death.
Many Christians observe Easter Sunday by attending church and then enjoying a festive dinner with family and friends. Traditions also include colouring hard-boiled eggs and hiding plastic ones filled with candy or surprises for an Easter egg hunt.
Passover is a Jewish festival that commemorates the liberation and exodus of the children of Israel, by Moses, from the slavery and domination of the Pharaohs in Egypt. It is celebrated for seven to eight days, beginning this year on Friday, April 15th.
Passover gets its name from an ancient story: Moses visited Pharaoh time after time, trying to persuade him to release the Israeli natives. However, Pharaoh did not relent. So, eventually, Moses warned the Pharaoh about the horrible plagues that God would hurl at Egypt, if he continued to refuse to release the Israelites. God also told Moses that the Israelites should mark their doorposts with lamb’s blood to protect them from these plagues, when God “passed over” their homes – hence the origins of the name. This caused the Pharaoh to finally relent and let the Israelites go.
Many Jewish people celebrate Passover with a meal where families and friends of the family will read scripture while drinking four glasses of wine and eating foods that represent the exodus from slavery. They will also abstain from eating all leavened bread for about a week, and eat matzo – a thin, unleavened cracker – instead.
Jewish people gather to celebrate freedom, whereas Christians gather to celebrate a miracle. Both holidays involve special, celebratory dinners where families gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious feasts.
These feasts both include sweet foods, which represent the holidays. In Christianity, sweets and candies were traditionally eaten to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, while in Judaism, sweet foods represent the mortar from the bricks used to build Pharaoh’s temple.
Both Easter and Passover also use eggs as traditional symbols. In Christianity, eggs symbolize Jesus’ tomb and when painted with bright colours, they represent the resurrection, while in Judaism, eggs celebrate rebirth.
So while Easter and Passover are different holidays, they share many similarities as well.
BAZIS – Toronto Real Estate Development Company
If you celebrate Easter or Passover, we hope that you and your family have lovely festivities! Will you be celebrating? Connect with BAZIS , our Toronto real estate development company on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!
Family-Friendly March Break Activities to Do in Toronto
March Break is here, and it’s a great time to enjoy some family-friendly fun in and around Toronto. We’ve rounded up over a dozen of the best activities and events taking place in the city next week so you can get out of the house and make the most of the week off – from free family activities to live theatre, movies, festivals and more! Happy March Break!
SpringFestTO, Markham Fair Grounds, March 12-20, 2022
SpringFest is an indoor fun park with the latest in children’s entertainment, games and activities. The park has entertainment to thrill the whole family, with mechanical and inflatable rides, an all-new dinosaur exhibit, food vendors, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and daily performances by The Dance Party Crew, Doo Doo the International Clown, The Birds of Prey and Trulee Odd.
Maple Syrup Festival, Kortright Centre, March 12-April 10, 2022
The Maple Syrup Festival is back after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn how maple syrup is made, try a tasting of different grades and types of syrup, go on a horse wagon ride, enjoy fresh, hot pancakes with pure maple syrup, and have taffy on snow! There’s nothing like a visit to the Maple Syrup Festival to kick off the spring season.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Toronto (Bloor St. & St. George St.), March 20, 2022
The St. Patty’s Day Parade is a fun way to celebrate Irish culture, history, and heritage, but this Toronto event has also grown to include a number of diverse community and non-profit groups over the years. Enjoy the fanfare, excitement, and live music in downtown Toronto.
Toronto Comicon, Metro Convention Centre, March 18-20, 2022
Celebrate all things pop culture at the Toronto Comicon! If you or your kids are fans of comics, sci-fi, horror, cosplay, anime, or gaming, you’ll love this 3-day extravaganza in downtown Toronto. Comicon is a family-friendly event with all kinds of special programming, including a costume contest, celebrity photo ops, the opportunity to meet your favourite superheroes and voice actors, sketch duels, panels and workshops, and lots more.
Fireside Munsch! , Wychwood Theatre, March 12-20, 2022
Who doesn’t love Robert Munsch? Head to Wychwood Theatre in Toronto this March Break for the hit show Fireside Munsch!, featuring four of Robert Munsch’s stories (Seeing Red, The Sandcastle Contest, Give Me Back My Dad! and Smelly Socks) performed as one wacky storytelling play. Adults and children alike will have a ball reliving these Munsch classics.
The Sleeping Beauty, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, March 18-27, 2022
March Break is the perfect opportunity to try something new by taking your kids to the ballet. Whether they’re budding ballet dancers or not, kids and adults alike are sure to be captivated by The Sleeping Beauty’s opulent set, dazzling dancers, and unforgettable score.
Little Canada, Yonge & Dundas Square, March 14-18, 2022
Little Canada is a unique downtown Toronto attraction featuring our country’s captivating vistas, famous landmarks, iconic cityscapes and little stories – all in miniature scale! This March Break, they’re offering unique workshops each day of the week. Join in and learn unique skills that will guide you in creating beautiful miniature masterpieces. Learn how to build a miniature bedroom, make a personalized scene, or decorate Little Canada’s mascot, Maurice the Moose. Fun!
Maple at the Village, Black Creek Pioneer Village, March 14-18, 2022
This March Break, celebrate the charm of maple syrup season as Black Creek Pioneer Village buzzes with the energy of early spring. Take a step back in time and discover the old-fashioned skills needed to take this sweet treat all the way from tree to table. Kids will love engaging with Black Creek Pioneer Village’s costumed educators and learning all about the backwoods skills necessary for adventures in the sugarbush.
March Break at the Bata Shoe Museum, Downtown Toronto, March 14-19, 2022
This March Break, the Bata Shoe Museum is putting the focus on all things sports, and hosting a series of fun activities and crafts throughout the museum that are sure to entertain the little ones. Colour a sneaker keychain, make your own sports-themed bookmark, play mini putt and ISPY games, try on sports footwear, leave your footprint in the museum, and more! You can also enjoy all four of the museum’s exhibitions while you’re there.
Hockey Hall of Fame, Brookfield Place, March 12-20, 2022
You can’t go wrong with a family trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame! Experience the game that defines Canada and a sport that has been adopted by over 70 countries. Spread across 65,000 square feet, the Hockey Hall of Fame offers something for the entire family: the world’s finest collection of hockey artifacts, theatres, interactive games, a replica NHL dressing room, and NHL trophies including the coveted Stanley Cup.
Toronto Zoo, Scarborough, March 12-20, 2022
The Toronto Zoo features over 4,000 animals that you and your kids can discover, all while exploring over 10 kilometres of walking trails and four tropical pavilions. The Toronto Zoo is celebrating the Year of the Tiger this year, so get ready for special appearances by the zoo’s new tiger mascot, walk the Zoo to #SpotTheStripes, browse the new Tiger Shop, and enjoy some special tiger-themed snacks.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, Vaughan, March 12-20, 2022
LEGO mania is here! The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre has millions of LEGO bricks to create and discover, epic rides, mega-awesome 4D movies, and more. A visit to LEGOLAND is sure to be a day of fun for the whole family.
Royal Ontario Museum, Downtown Toronto, Until March 20, 2022
This March Break, take your kids to the ROM to help them connect with art, culture, and nature. In addition to Great Whales: Up Close and Personal and Wildlife Photographer of the Year, visitors can also enjoy ROM’s permanent galleries and a host of other amazing special exhibitions.
Ontario Science Centre, North York, March 12-20, 2022
Like the ROM, the Ontario Science Centre is a quintessential Toronto favourite that’s both fun and educational, and that both kids and parents will enjoy! With hands-on exhibitions, live science demonstrations, and IMAX® films, there’s a lot to explore at the Ontario Science Centre this March Break.
We hope that you and your family have a wonderful March Break! What have you got planned for the week? Connect with BAZIS, our Toronto Real Estate Development Company on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!