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Torontonians, it’s time to get creative! With many of our regular spring activities shuttered due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic – from backyard BBQs with neighbours and friends to patio cocktails, concerts, art shows and Blue Jays games – this is the season to think outside the box. Toronto has so much to do and discover, even amidst our current circumstances. And the weather is beautiful – so get outside and enjoy!

Here are 7 fun activities to do in Toronto this season that you probably didn’t know about:

#1: Take a Self-Guided Historical Building Walking Tour  

Toronto is full of history, and that includes plenty of beautiful historical buildings. A walking tour of Toronto’s historical buildings is a great way to spend an afternoon, getting to know the City of Toronto on a deeper level while enjoying the incredible architecture and fresh air.

Check out this self-guided walking tour. Just download the app and you’ll be guided through Toronto’s architectural and historical hot spots, including Gooderham, Daniel Brook Building, Massey Hall, and more.

#2: Discover the Toronto Waterfront Like Never Before

We all know and love the Toronto waterfront, but have you explored all of the different Lake Ontario views that the lakefront has to offer? Take a tour of the waterfront with this self-guided waterfront walking tour. As with the self-guided historical building walking tour, just download the app and you’ll be guided along your route, from the Harbourfront Centre all the way to Billy Bishop, exploring all the lakeshore sights along the way.

#3: Get to Know Toronto’s Street Art

Have you ever really paused to stop and admire all the street art that Toronto has to offer? Catching a glimpse of a colourful mural can brighten one’s day, and in Toronto, art is all around us. Check out this guide to Toronto’s coolest murals and street art.

#4: Be Enchanted by the Guild Park and Gardens

A visit to the Guild Park and Gardens is like a visit back in time. This hidden gem is located in Scarborough, and it’s a historic sculptural sanctuary that’s sure to amaze and delight. With an incredible collection of rustic stone pieces of art and architecture from Toronto’s past, a greenhouse and beautiful gardens full of colourful flowers, Guild Park is an absolutely magical place to escape for an afternoon.

#5: Take a Visit to Evergreen Brickworks’ Iconic Farmers’ Market

Spring time means fresh strawberries, cherries, rhubarb, beets, carrots, and much more from Ontario’s farmers. This is a great time of year to visit your local farmers’ market, and the Evergreen Brickworks’ farmers’ market is a particularly great choice. With a bountiful selection of artisan goods and in-season delicacies set amidst a natural oasis, this is a fresh way to start any spring weekend.

#6: Check Out the Spring Countdown at the Bentway

How cool is this? To symbolize the changing of the seasons, a 7,000 pound block of ice has been set up at The Bentway, encasing a Muskoka chair. As the weather warms up, the ice will melt, gradually revealing one of the classic symbols of Canadian summers. This is a fun and natural spring countdown, and it’s worth a visit for its sheer uniqueness.

#7: Go for a Paddle on the Humber River

Did you know you can rent a canoe or kayak, and take a paddle along the Humber River? Head to Etienne Brule Park, as it’s a great point to start your paddle. You’ll forget you’re even in the city as you make your way down the river, connecting with nature and enjoying the breeze and the gorgeous views.

Make sure to follow all city regulations in accordance with the latest lockdown, including sticking to exploring areas in your neighbourhood until the stay-at-home order has passed.

Which activity are you looking forward to the most this spring? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

Chinese New Year starts this Friday, February 12 – the first day of the Chinese Lunar Calendar. This holiday is all about luck, health, and reuniting with family. It’s a major celebration in several Asian countries and also here in Canada and the Greater Toronto Area.

Chinese New Year usually brings together family and friends to partake in festivities and traditions that occur over a 15-day period. The celebrations begin with a family feast called a reunion dinner full of traditional Lunar New Year foods, and typically end with the Lantern Festival.

This year, the festivities will be a little different – and the celebrations a bit quieter – as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to alter our lives and gatherings. However, the same traditions, customs, and delicious food will prevail in 2021. Here are some fun ways to celebrate Chinese New Year this year in Toronto.

Celebrate the Spirit of Family Gatherings

Lunar New Year is all about reuniting with family and catching up with your loved ones, be they relatives or friends. This can be a challenge if you don’t live with your family or have to travel to see them, but you can celebrate the spirit of gathering with your family no matter how far away you are.

If you live on your own or away from your family, make sure to stay connected. Sending cards or letters can be a fun way to send your love from afar, and will delight the recipient. Make a date to connect virtually by setting up a video conference call, or surprise a loved one with a phone call.

Embrace Lunar New Year Traditions

While there won’t be any parades happening this year, many other traditions can carry on.

But first, gather your broom and cleaning supplies! Before the arrival of the new year, make sure to clean your home thoroughly to sweep away ill fortune and welcome good luck. Clear out last year’s clutter and splurge on some new clothes – beautiful red clothes, of course. Brighten up with some colour! The Lunar New Year is all about celebrating fortune, health, and happiness.

Enjoy the tradition of exchanging gifts with your loved ones, and giving children money in red envelopes. If you live with your family, you’ll be able to enjoy the New Year’s Eve tradition of gathering with your family to celebrate and enjoy sumptuous traditional feasts.

There are also several superstitions related to Lunar New Year which are said to bring good fortune into the next year and to protect against bad fortune. Whether it’s not arguing, paying back your debts, not cutting your hair on New Year, or wearing red, embrace all of your favourite rituals, traditions, and superstitions this year.

Enjoy Delicious Feasts

It wouldn’t be Chinese New Year without the amazing food. Even if you’re unable to gather with your family or to visit your favourite restaurants this year, you can still cook your own feast or enjoy some of the many amazing take-out options in Toronto.

From fish, chicken and dumplings to sweet rice balls, braised shiitake mushrooms, tangerines and oranges, spring rolls and more, you’ll want to enjoy the many delicious options associated with Chinese New Year.

Some great options for Toronto restaurants offering Lunar New Year menus include George Restaurant, Momofuku, Lai Wah Heen, DaiLo, Hong Shing Chinese Restaurant, R&D, Lee Restaurant, Eatertainment, Sunny’s Chinese, and Perfect Chinese Restaurant.

We wish all of our Chinese friends, clients and partners a happy Chinese New Year! How are you celebrating this year? Join us on our social media pages (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and let us know!

Looking to find the perfect gift ideas and stocking stuffers for everyone on your holiday shopping list this year? We’ve rounded up a selection of unique gifts and luxurious stocking stuffers to delight even the most discerning gift recipients. Read on for a thoughtfully curated list of sophisticated gifts, just in time for the holiday season.

If you’re looking for other unique gift ideas to support a local Toronto business, check out our suggestions here!

Go for Unexpected Luxury

When in doubt, lavish your loved one with a luxurious gift that they wouldn’t be likely to buy for themselves. It’s always exciting to receive something decadent, whether it’s a statement ring, a watch or an exquisite perfume. Another great option is to simply opt for a luxurious version of an everyday essential – like a leather notebook, lush cashmere scarf, elegant bottle opener, special candle, stylish wallet, high-quality headphones or top shelf liquor.

Gift Your Loved One Unexpected Relaxation

Amidst the hectic holiday season, many will be craving some R&R come January. Get a head start with a gift that’s all about kicking back and resting up. A pure silk sleep mask, plush bathrobe, essential oils aromatherapy kit, jade roller or gua sha tool will all set the mood for a home spa-like experience. Other calming, soothing gifts that will be sure to put a smile on your loved one’s face include a beautifully potted house plant or succulent, a subscription to Calm or another meditation app, a body and scalp massager, an adult colouring book (which are beloved for their stress-relieving effects) or a luxurious and cozy wool blanket.

Get Creative with Arts and Crafts

We’re not saying you have to DIY a gift (although if that’s your thing, go for it!), but both artwork and handcrafted items make for unique and special gifts. Paintings, framed photographs, a print from one of their favourite artists, a handmade cutting board, a ceramic mug or a customized, handcrafted tree ornament will all be sure to please. Gourmet treats, sauces, spices and oils are also an excellent option for the epicures in your life.

Go Holistic with a Wellness-Related Gift

Health is on everyone’s mind this year, and we could all use a little help keeping up with our health and wellness goals. Consider gifting your loved one something that will contribute to their well-being, whether physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually. Health-related gifts could include an online subscription to a fitness or yoga class, a Spotify subscription, books, a puzzle, a luxurious skincare set, an essential oil diffuser, a weighted blanket, a journal, gourmet herbal tea or a high-quality glass water bottle.

Give the Gift of an Incredible Experience

For the person who truly has it all, you can’t go wrong with giving the gift of an amazing, unforgettable experience. While travel, live performances such as plays and concerts, and even visits to museums and art galleries are off the table for many this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, there are still plenty of experiences available for gifting. Consider a meal kit subscription for busy parents and professionals, tickets to a virtual concert or performance for lovers of the arts and culture, a cocktail subscription box for those who love to learn new recipes or an all-access subscription to MasterClass for people who would love to learn from the best of the best – like Gordon Ramsay, Serena Williams, Malcolm Gladwell and more.

Which gifts are on your holiday shopping list this season? Join us on our social media pages (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and let us know!

There’s never been a better time to get an early start on holiday gift shopping. With restrictions on the number of people who can visit a store or shop at the same time and potential shipping delays due to the ongoing influx of items ordered online, 2020 is a smart year to plan ahead when it comes to finding thoughtful gifts for friends and family this holiday season.

Stumped for ideas? We’ve rounded up a selection of places to shop (both virtually and in-person) for unique, creative, stylish and elegant gift options for everyone on your list. Best of all, all of these choices are locally-owned, so you can support small, independent Toronto businesses while you do your holiday shopping.

One of a Kind Holiday Show

Toronto’s One of a Kind Holiday Show has gone digital, and you can shop its selection of unique gifts from exhibitors’ virtual booths. The show features over 700 makers selling Canadian-made products, from accessories and apparel to art, ceramics, home goods, personal care products and more. As its name suggests, this is a great place to find truly one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to delight!

Trinity Bellwoods Flea Market

The Trinity Bellwoods Flea Market is an exciting monthly market hosted at The Great Hall on Queen Street West. Its Christmas Is Coming market takes place this coming Sunday (November 22^nd) and features shopping, drinks, local food and music. With 100+ curated vendors (including artisans, makers, vendors and small businesses of Toronto) selling local, handmade gifts, it’s the perfect place to find something for everyone on your list – from home décor, artwork, pottery, Christmas tree ornaments and candles to jewellery, skincare products, gourmet hot sauces, pastries, coffee and more. COVID-19 safety precautions are in effect.

Bloor West Flea Market

The Bloor West Flea Market is another opportunity to shop in person for unique gifts from Toronto-based vendors. This intimate market is taking place on Sunday, November 29^th at Clinton’s Tavern, in the heart of Bloor West between the iconic Annex and Christie Pitts neighbourhoods, in Toronto’s beloved Korea Town. Check out the market to find beautiful handmade gifts from fashion, art, food and vintage craft sellers.

The Handmade Market

The online Handmade Market features over 220 Canadian makers, artisans and fine artists, so you can find beautiful and distinctive gifts from the comfort of your own home while supporting local small businesses. From baby and kids products to special treats for pets to food, green living, collectibles and more, this market has an incredible selection of products that will put you in the holiday mood in no time.

The Drake General Store

This iconic Toronto staple, once the gift shop for the Drake Hotel, now has several locations that are part flea market stand, part museum shop, part classic general store and part traditional hotel gift shop all rolled up into one. The Drake General Store has a great selection of fun gifts and Canadiana, and there’s something for everyone – even for those difficult-to-shop-for people. Shop online or visit one of their locations in person.

Holiday Fair in the Square

Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto is a favourite place to gather during the holiday season, as the rink sparkles with lights and a large holiday tree is on display. This year will be a little different, and the Holiday Fair in the Square has gone virtual. Shop online for all kinds of Canadian-made goods, from artwork and winter wear to gourmet foods, unique cocktail ingredients, fancy teas, home goods and more.

The Eco Lifestyle Market

This holiday market takes place on Sunday, December 13^th at Toronto’s Great Hall and makes giving greener gifts this holiday season fun and easy. With a curated selection of Toronto’s finest local, handcrafted, sustainable, eco-friendly and wellness goods vendors, the Eco Lifestyle Market offers a day of delicious local eats, local vendors and holiday cheer.

Skip the mall this holiday season and get that one-of-a-kind gift right here in your own backyard.

Have you started your holiday shopping this year? Join us on our social media pages (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and let us know!

Whether you’re working from home, staying at home with your kids as they’re off school, or self-quarantining, many of us are spending a lot more time at home lately. As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads and the government recommends that we stay at home to help slow the speed of transmission, everything from school to after-school activities, sports, and music lessons, and playdates have been canceled. You may find yourself looking for ideas to keep your family occupied without leaving the house, apartment or condo.

Here are 20 fun family-friendly activities to explore:

• Get Creative

Family members of all ages will love bringing out their inner Picasso or Frida Kahlo by doing arts and crafts, painting, drawing, making sculptures with Play-Doh, taking photos or making videos. Have fun with it!

• Have a Pajama Party

As there’s nothing more fun than wearing your pajamas during the daytime, and it’s an activity best enjoyed at home! Make some yummy snacks, have a pillow fight, and tell each other some spooky ghost stories.

• Make a Fort

  Whether with sheets, pillows, or cardboard boxes, making a fort is a fun activity that shows kids’ imaginations and keeps them engaged.

• Play Board Games or Cards

  What better time for a game of Monopoly, Clue or Uno? Checkers and jigsaw puzzles are also great options to keep everyone happily occupied for a couple of hours.

• Have a Family Game of Charades

  It’s impossible to stay bored when you’re playing charades! Categories can include movies, TV shows, activities, musical artists, books, or whatever else you can think of.

• Start a Family Band

  You don’t need real instruments, either (although if you have them, all the better)! Create makeshift instruments using drums made out of cans and buckets, paper plate tambourines, glasses of water filled at varying heights and a spoon for a homemade xylophone, and Tupperware filled with different materials for shakers.

• Dance, Dance, Dance

  While you’re having fun making music, get your groove on and have a family dance party.

• Create an at-Home Scavenger Hunt

  There are all kinds of knick-knacks in your home or condo that can be used as bounty in a fun treasure hunt.

• Get Baking

  Have some fun in the kitchen and enjoy the fruits (or donuts) of your labor! Baking cookies, cakes, brownies or other treats is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy. Better yet, did you know that baking has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety?

• Have an Indoor Picnic

prepare some picnic-style munchies (think salads, sandwiches, veggies and dip, olives, or cheese and crackers), lay out a blanket, get cozy and enjoy.

• Learn Something New

Have fun doing it! The extra time spent at home is a great opportunity to teach your kids something new. Show them how to play chess, teach them a few chords on the guitar, or show them your favorite recipe that has been passed down through the generations. You can also embrace online education and help your kids stay on top of their learning with tools like Osmo, BrainPOP, Scholastic or Mystery Science.

• Call or Facetime Family Members

This is a great time to catch up with people in your family and also to check in on them and see if they need any support during this challenging time.

• Appreciate Art and Museums

Many art galleries and museums have opened up free online e-visits, including the Louvre, the Boston Children’s Museum, the British Museum, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and more. Explore art and natural wonders all from the comfort of your couch.

• Go on a Digital Field Trip

Just as museums and art galleries have opened up e-visits, you can also take a virtual visit to places as exciting and varied as Yellowstone National Park, the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, the Canadian Arctic, or a variety of farms across Canada. With Google Earth, you can explore almost anywhere in the whole wide world with just the click of a button.

• Bust Out the Dress-up Box

Let your imagination run wild! Kids of all ages love dressing up and pretending to be various characters and creatures.

• Start a Book Club

Take turns picking favorite books and then read them together. It’ll be fun to get different family members’ take turns and reactions to the same story.

• Make Jewelry

Kids will love to create their own jewelry because it’s a fun, creative process and they’ll be left with something they can wear and cherish. For easy DIYs that you can make use of supplies you may already have at home, try making classic beaded necklaces, embroidered bracelets, sculptural folded paper bracelets, or washer necklaces.

• Practice Learning a New Language

Whether by speaking together or by using an app like Duolingo, learning a new language is a great way to keep kids learning with a useful skill that will benefit them in life.

• Write a Story Together

collaborate on creating a unique mystery story, sci-fi adventure or hilarious comedy.

• Explore Space

  It’s easy with the free virtual tours of the Langley Research Center offered by NASA. You can also check out Space Center Houston’s app, which provides virtual tours, augmented reality experiences, videos and audio stories about space exploration.

We hope you enjoy family time at home during this challenging situation making use of the fun-activities listed so far, and we wish you good health!

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