The WOW! Series:
Nathan Phillip Square is the place to be if you’re looking for a little impromptu fun. For two weeks, the small urban plaza near New City Hall will be the venue for concerts, street performances, and fun for people of all ages.
On Saturday, January 31st, Thunderheist, the hip hop and techno duo from Montreal, will be blasting and spinning the beats with rapper Shad. The following Saturday, on February 7th, the popular Canadian indie rock group The Stills will be performing for the crowd, including tracks from their recently released, third studio album, Oceans Will Rise. Both nights will kick off at 8 pm.
On each Friday and Saturday of both weeks (the 30th and 31st, and the 6th and 7th) at 7 pm, the magnificent Dutch street theatre troupe Close-Act will be performing their aquatic spectacle, Pi-Leau. A story about the rising sea, the struggle of men, and an impossible love, the show is sure to be an extraordinary sight. 
The RBC WinterCity Lodge is the perfect destination for families. Each weekend, the small venue will house art activities, comedy shows, and dances for adults and children to participate in and enjoy. Don’t miss out on adding your personal touch to the WinterCity Mosaic, a collaborative and commemorative art piece that will be displayed at City Hall on March 6th, Toronto’s 175th anniversary.
The Warm Up Series:
Events for both children and adults will be on at various locations around the city. This year, the youngsters can get a chance to be filmmakers, spin the turntables like DJs, take part in a Casa Loma treasure hunt, and much more.
For the adults, there are several experiences to sign up for, including pottery and cooking classes. You can also take in a local play or attend The Steam Whistle UNSIGNED concert. There are tours and workshops available for audiences of all ages at the AGO, the Avenue Road Art School, and the Campbell House Museum. To make things more inviting, the WinterCity events will be honouring coupons you can find and print directly from the website.
Winterlicious:
The culinary industry will be presenting a variety of classes and presentations this season. Events include Thai Cooking for Teens, the Travel the Spice Route Brunch, and Dining in the Dark. Space is limited per event, so sign up now.
Great food and low prices is a combination everyone can stomach. This year, as tradition goes, the WinterCity Festival will hold its annual prix-fixe menu promotion. Over 150 different restaurants in the GTA will be offer lunch and dinner menus at fixed costs of $25 to $45 per three-course meal. Known widely, this is a must-attend opportunity. Reservations began on January 15th and tables are being snatched up fast. If you want to secure a table this season, you should act quickly. I’ve already made my reservation at one of Toronto’s acclaimed restaurants, and I’m looking forward to a lovely evening of fine dining and fine cuisine – at a great price.
Minding your budget:
The best part about the WinterCity Festival is the savings. Many of the events, classes, and promotions are offered at low or discounted prices. Several of the events are actually free of charge. Don’t miss out on this presentation of the great sights, sounds, and tastes Toronto has to offer. Get out there and enjoy the city. You won’t regret it.
For all the details, including event information, prices, and coupons, check out the City of Toronto website at http://www.toronto.ca/special_events/wintercity/index.htm.