Neck of the Woods - A Group Art Show

Group art shows are usually a safe bet even for those who do not consider themselves art connoisseurs. Neck of the Woods showcased 22 local artists with a body of work that expressed their personal connection with a specific Toronto neighbourhood. In addition to the art (which was great), there was also music, food, and drink, as well as a number of giveaways and interactive stations from sponsors and local businesses. For example, you could get your makeup done, get a design painted on your nails (for a donation of tips), sample some gourmet cheesecakes, and go vintage shopping, to make a few. Within the hour from the opening, the space was packed and the crowd was buzzing. This was definitely one you wanted to get to early!

WHAT: Neck of the Woods group art show

WHERE: Norman Felix Gallery, 627 Queen W.

WHEN: Opening party - November 29

COST: Admission - $6 (includes  
            raffle ticket) 
            Food - free
            Makeup application - free
            Nail art design - tip 

 


INSIDER TIPS: Arrive early for best chance to look around before the venue gets packed and indulge in all the freebies without having to wait in line. 

Hugo Boss Store Opening at Yorkdale

Store opening celebrations that cap the attendee list at a manageable size are great events to attend. Hugo Boss was a fantastic example of this. The crowd was small, drinks and food were plentiful, music was great, and there were swag bags, considerable shopping discounts, and a fashion show for the exclusive audience. In order to snag a spot, you need to be aware of the event before the RSVP deadline passes, get your name on the list, and show up early enough to enjoy the night. But that's hardly effort - all you need to do is keep an eye on your inbox and respond quickly.

WHAT: Hugo Boss store opening

WHERE: Yorkdale Mall

WHEN: Tuesday, November 27

COST: Free

INSIDER TIPS: Keep an eye out on store opening announcements and send in your RSVPs early to snag a spot on the coveted attendee list. A subscription to the Toronto Life distribution list will automatically send you notices to some of these.

Ron James Show - Live Taping at CBC Studios

If you're not up for shelling out some hard-earned cash for one of the regular comedy shows taking place in the city (or if you simply want more variety in between new productions), this is a great - and free! - alternative. While I've never heard of Ron James until my friend asked me if I was interested in going, I'll try just about anything twice, so tonight we donned the requisite dark-coloured clothing and went to a live taping. It was a great time and best of all, super easy on the wallet.

WHERE: CBC Broadcasting Centre, 25 John St.

WHEN: Check website for additional dates and times. The show tapes in the evening, at 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm (you would need to arrive up to an hour ahead).

 COST: Free

INSIDER TIPS: The taping will take approximately two hours and you are not allowed to leave the studio once you enter, so be sure to take that bathroom break before you go in!

ROM Friday Night Live

If you are looking for a more relaxed version of a night out at an elegant venue but where you can actually talk to your friends without screaming at the top of your lungs, this is your stop. ROM Friday Night Live is a great night out - the crowd is well dressed, some of the exhibits are open, the food is trendy, the drinks are reasonable, and the music is great. You can get dressed to the nines and dance the night away or you can grab one of the numerous tables peppered throughout the space and catch up with your friends. It's fun, original, and doesn't cost you one of your kidneys.

WHERE: Royal Ontario Museum

WHEN: Friday nights, 7pm-12am (three more left this season - Nov. 16, 23, and 30)

DETAILS: See website for weekly themes

COST: Admission $9-$10 (free for museum
            members)
            Food and drink $5-$7
            Coat check $2 (bags are free to check)


INSIDER TIPS: Be sure to arrive early and purchase your tickets online to avoid a long wait in line. The event is very popular and the line to purchase tickets at the door moves slowly. Last call for alcohol is at 11:30 pm and the place is pretty well cleared out by midnight, so expect an early night. Also, many of the food vendors sell out before the night is over, so if you have your eye on something, be sure to get it when you see it or you might not get a chance! (I would highly recommend doing this by 9:30 pm at the latest). The music abruptly stops at 11:30 pm and the crowd rushes to the coat check. If you don't want to spend 20 mins in line for your coat, either collect it before 11:30 or wait the line out comfortable seated inside and be one of the last ones to leave.