During the post-Christmas winter months, it can be tempting to retreat indoors and only face the cold when in need of necessities. Yet this month, there are a number of intriguing events and activities taking place across Toronto that are worth braving the outdoors for. From theatre to fine dining, January in Toronto is sure to be an exciting time (despite the frightful weather). Here are our suggestions on what to do in Toronto this month. 

Photo: toronto_fringe on Instagram

Next Stage Festival  (January 4th- 15th) 

Created by the Toronto Fringe Festival, the Next Stage Festival provides dynamic “fringe artists” a larger showcase for their work. Featuring ten original works, the festival runs for 11 days at Toronto’s Factory Theatre. This year’s lineup includes the internationally renowned musical Blood Ties and a new play by acclaimed artist Kawa Ada entitled The Death of Mrs. Gandhi and the Beginning of New Physics. Complete with a heated beer tent courtesy of Steam Whistle, this beloved theatre event is sure to be a fun way to kick off the new year.

Photo: francescovedovati on Instagram

Canada’s Top Ten (January 13^th – 26^th)

Seal hunting, student protests and, of course, hockey – these are just a few of the stories behind the films selected for Canada’s Top Ten Festival. Run by the team at TIFF, this 3 week-long festival is dedicated to promoting and highlighting home grown cinematic talent. This year’s feature film selection includes Xavier Dolan’s widely praised It’s Only the End of the World and Window Horses, an animated film featuring the voices of Ellen Page and Sandra Oh.

Photo: misssarahk on Instagram

Come Up To My Room (January 19^th – 22^nd)

Come Up To My Room is an inventively titled design challenge that brings together up-and-coming designers and artists. Set in the Gladstone Hotel, participating artists create in-site installations in the hotel’s landmark rooms. Highlights from last year’s festival include a recreation of Ferris Bueller’s bedroom by artists Sarah Keenlyside and Joseph Clement, and a room decorated entirely with paper furniture by Michael Neville.

Photo: jennnca on Instagram

Winterlicious (January 27^th– February 9^th)

Winterlicious, Toronto’s most delicious celebration, returns this month. This festival presents Torontonians with the opportunity to try out some of the city’s best restaurants at a fraction of their usual cost. Participating restaurants offer decadent three-course-meals at lowered fixed prices, making for a delicious and wallet friendly treat. On top of extravagant meals, the festival also offers a variety of other activities including cooking classes, dinner theatre, tastings and more.