Thursday, November 19

Benefits

Building Bridges (Community Police Liaison scholarships) A fashion show, dance performance, live art wall and more. 7-10 pm. $50. St Lawrence Hall, 157 King E. 416-808-5119.
Chocabilities (Learning Disabilities Assoc) Chocolate tasting and a silent auction. 7 pm. $75. Elmwood Spa, 18 Elm. 416-229-1680.
Cockburn & Ondaatje (PEN Canada) Evening of words and music with Michael Ondaatje and Bruce Cockburn. 7 pm. $50. Glenn Gould Studio, CBC Broadcasting Centre, 250 Front W. 416-872-4255.
Evergreen Fair (Ronald McDonald House) Holiday decorating presentations with Elaine Martin. 11 am-8 pm. $20/2-day pass. Distillery Fermenting Cellar, 55 Mill. 416-364-6232.
World Head Wraps Fashion Show And Concert (Princess Margaret Hospital) Fashion show, jazz musician Julie Michels and more. 7-11 pm. $100. Liberty Grand, 25 British Columbia. worldheadwrappers.ca.

Events

Allan Gosling Memorial Service for the 82-year-old man who died as a result of his homelessness. 7 pm. Free. Church of the Holy Trinity, beside the Eaton Centre. 416-598-4521 ext 226.
Canadian Department Of Peace Forum with Rob Acheson. 6 pm. Free. OISE, 7th floor Peace Lounge, 252 Bloor W. tlcentre@oise.utotonto.ca.
Catching The Unspoken Lecture on the use of theatre in controlling HIV/AIDS in South Africa. 4-5:30 pm. Free. University College, rm UC256, 15 King's College Circle. ehjic.ca.
Climate Justice Now! Screening of the film Islands On Edge and speakers. 7-11 pm. Free. William Doo Auditorium, 45 Willcocks. climatejusticetoronto@gmail.com.
Community Environmental Strategy Session Discussion on environmental issues and starting green projects in wards 16 and 25. 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. North Toronto Memorial Community Centre, 200 Eglinton W. Pre-register masanik@toronto.ca.
Filmmaker-In-Residence: The Complete Collection Screening and discussion. 6-8:30 pm. Free. Innis Town Hall, 2 Sussex. Pre-register d.cowan@nfb.ca.
Flagging Down The Train To Weston Heritage railway walk. 1:30 pm. Free. Lawrence and Weston. 416-593-2656.
Gourmet Food & Wine Expo Tutored tastings plus sampling of wine, spirits, beer and food with a Portuguese theme. Today and tomorrow 2-10 pm; Nov 21, noon-10 pm; Nov 22, noon-6 pm. $15, Thu $35. Metro Convention Centre, 255 Front W. foodandwineexpo.ca.
How To Pick A Stock Investment seminar. 6:30-8 pm. Free. Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-393-7131.
Leslieville's Holiday Wanderlust Festive activities, discount shopping, live music and more. 6-10 pm. Free. Queen btwn Logan and Greenwood. leslieviller.com.
Mahtab Narsimhan Reading from her novel The Third Eye for kids nine to 13. 4 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.
The Mirage Of A Space Between Nature And Nurture Lecture by professor Evelyn Fox Keller. 7-9 pm. Free. Academic Resource Centre Lecture Theatre, U of T Scarborough, 1265 Military. utsc.utoronto.ca.
National Fearless Day Competition Youth 18 to 30 join Richard Branson for a battle of the bravest. 11 am-12:30 pm. Free. Circa, 126 John. nationalfearlessday.ca.
One World, Double Take: Staging Struggle Panel on the role of theatre in confronting social and political turmoil with playwrights and directors. 7 pm. Pwyc. Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. kofflerarts.org.
Potter's Studio Show & Sale Sale of members' work. Today and tomorrow noon-9 pm; Nov 21, 10 am-5 pm; Nov 22, noon-5 pm. Free. Unit 16, 2 Thorncliffe Park. 416-465-9833.
Privatization Of Public Services And Consequences For Labour Talk by Austrian author Christoff Hermann. 6:30 pm. Free. Centre for Social Justice, 489 College. socialistproject.ca.
Rick Hillier Discussing bullets, bureaucrats and the politics of war with James Travers. 7 pm. Free. Reference Library, 789 Yonge. torontopubliclibrary.ca.
Supporting Sustainable Farming - From Producers To Consumers Lecture. 7-8:30 pm. Free. Big Carrot, 348 Danforth. 416-466-2129.
This Is Not A Blog Discussion on the exhibition War At A Distance with professor Sara Matthews. 7 pm. Free. Gallery TPW, 56 Ossington. 416-645-1066.
Words And Images Scarborough Arts Council celebration with poet John Oughton, artist Ellen Moffat and others. 7-9 pm. Free. Doris McCarthy Gallery, U of T Scarborough Campus, 1265 Military. 416-698-7322.

Friday, November 20

Benefits

Dance To The Rhythm Of The Beat! (Acacia Children's Project) Dance party in support of AIDS orphans in Kenya. 7 pm. $30, stu $15. Whistler's, 995 Broadview. 416-732-8102.
Holiday Gift Fair (Central Eglinton Community Centre) Pie-baking contest, used books, gifts, a silent auction and more. 10 am-2 pm. Free. 160 Eglinton E. 416-392-0511 ext 225.
Love Show - Dreams (CAMH Workman Arts Program) Sale of miniatures by local artists. To Nov 22. Free (all works $75). Culture, Arts, Media & Education Centre, 918 Bathurst. 416-538-0868.
Rize Benefit Concert (Horizon Arts Camp) Music and dance with Theresa Tova, Peter Katz and others. 7:30 pm. $35. St Lawrence Centre, 27 Front E. 416-366-7723.
Thou Shalt Kick It (Tempus Int'l) A footwear auction, entertainment and more support youth literacy programs. 8 pm-2 am. $40, adv $30. Berkeley Church, 315 Queen E. tempusinternational.org.

Events

Avoid The Sad Virus Philosophical workshop. 7:30 pm. $20, yth $10. Northern District Library, 40 Orchard View. 416-486-7198.
Celebrity Chef Ken Kostick Interactive demonstration. 6 pm. $50. St Lawrence Market, 93 Front E. Pre-register 416-860-0727.
Education For Activists Socialist Action Trotsky School conference with sessions on Rosa Luxemburg, fascism, the jobless recovery and more. Today 7 pm, tomorrow 10 am-8 pm. $10, $4/session. OISE, 252 Bloor W. Pre-register 535-8779.
The Everything To Do With Sex Show Entertainment, seminars, products and more. Today 4:30-10:30 pm; tomorrow noon-10:30 pm; Nov 22, noon-4:30 pm. $20-$29. Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place. everythingtodowithsex.com.
Food And Population: How Many Can We Feed? Forum with author Brewster Kneen and others. 7-9 pm. Free. Koffler Instit, 569 Spadina. scienceforpeace.ca.
Food Insecurity Among Latin American Communities In Toronto Seminar with doctors Mandana Vahabi and Cecilia Rocha. 2-4 pm. Free. Oakham House, rm G, 63 Gould. foodfortalk@ryerson.ca.
Ice, Wine & Dine Live jazz and blues, angel stilt walkers, food and more. Today and tomorrow 4-9 pm. Free. Elm btwn Yonge and Bay. 416-504-3977 ext 25.
Rom Friday Nights Cultural performances and gallery viewing. 4:30-9:30 pm. $11, stu/srs $9.50, child $7.50. Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-8000.
Scottish Ceilidh Dancing and a lesson, no partner necessary. 7:30-9:30 pm. $8, yth $2. St Leonard's Anglican Church, 25 Wanless. rscdstoronto.org.
34 Million Friends Of The United Nations Population Fund Discussion with human rights activist Jane Roberts. Noon-1 pm. Free. Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College. j.kopelow@utoronto.ca.
Trans Day Of Remembrance Interactive art installation. Noon-2 pm. Free. U of T Centre for Women and Trans People, 100 St George. 416-978-8201.

Saturday, November 21

Benefits

charity Evening (Stephen Lewis Fdn/SAFER/Panzi Hospital/Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/WRAP) Music by Mohamed Diaby, dinner and a silent auction. 5:30-10:30 pm. $40. 89 Chestnut. psychotherapyontario.com.
La Compania De Danza Aerea (Donald Dawson Project) Performances by Ismailova Theatre of Dance, Esie Mensah, Travis Knights and others raise funds for art schools in the south of Mexico. 9 pm. $10. 2968 Dundas W. danza.aerea@yahoo.com.mx.
Craft Bazaar (Lucy McCormick School) Bazaar, raffle and silent auction. 10 am-2:30 pm. $2. 2717 Dundas W. marshall.nancy@gmail.com.
Craft Show And Sale (St John's Norway Anglican Church) Gifts from local artisans. 9:30 am-2 pm. Free. 470 Woodbine. 416-694-2918.
Holly Berry Fair (Rosedale United Church) White elephant sale, baking, books, knitting and more. 10 am-2 pm. Free. 159 Roxborough. 416-485-4992.
A Little Opera For Little Babies (Linden Fund) Operatic arias and ensembles with Erin Bardua, Christopher Mayell and others. 7:30 pm. $25, stu/srs $15. Bloor Street United Church, 300 Bloor W. 416-822-3530.
National Yoga Challenge (UNICEF) Yoga4Kidz Soc charity yoga challenge. Noon-8 pm. Pledges. Yoga Sanctuary, 95 Danforth. nationalyogachallenge.com.
Petcentric Yard Sale (local pet rescue organizations) Sale of gently used cat and dog items. Today and tomorrow 11 am-6 pm. Free. PetWays, 245 Queens Quay W. 416-360-7297.
Swansea Craft & Bake Sale (Swansea Public School) Gifts, stocking stuffers, decorations, gourmet preserves and more. 10 am-3 pm. $2, child $1. 207 Windermere. 416-393-9080.
Theo In The Spotlight: A Concert For Darfur (UNICEF Canada) Children's book event and fundraising cookie sale. 1-3 pm. Free. Another Story Bookshop, 315 Roncesvalles. 416-462-1104.

Events

Artist As Engineer Symposium with Susan G Cole, Erin L Webster, Maria Hlady and Samuel Roy-Bois. 1 pm. Pwyc. Robert McLaughlin Gallery, 72 Queen, Oshawa. rmg.on.ca.
Bloor-Yorkville Cavalcade Of Lights Holiday lighting ceremony with Little Mosque On The Prairie's Zaib Shaikh and others. 5 pm. Free. Cumberland and Bellair. toronto.ca.
Canadian National Robot Games Teams from around the world compete with their home-built robotic creations. Today and tomorrow 10 am-5 pm. Free w/ admission. Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills. 416-696-1000.
Choral Workshop Sing along to contemporary anthems with Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. 10:30 am-1 pm. $10. Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge. 416-598-0422 ext 24.
Christmas Shopping Online Step-by-step seminar. 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Free. St Paul's L'Amoreaux Centre, 3333 Finch E. Pre-register 416-493-3333.
Christmas Wreath-Making Workshop Create a wreath using nature's bounty. Today and tomorrow 10 am and 2 pm. $27.50. Colborne Lodge, High Park. 416-392-6916.
Gamercamp.ca Gaming event with speaker Mark Sheppard and others plus a rare and classic games arcade. 1-9:30 pm. $15. Lower Ossington Theatre, 100A Ossington. jaime@gamercamp.ca.
Is Technology Ruining Our Lives? Cafe Scientifique discussion and debate. 4 pm. Free. Rivoli, 332 Queen W. cafescientifique.ca.
Laf Nightlight Party Light, art and food event with artist-made nightlights, a workshop, displays and taster menus. 4-8 pm. Free. Bloor btwn Dufferin and Lansdowne. bloordale-bia.com.
Movies & Makers Art And Craft Show Clothing, pottery, zines and jewellery. 10 am-4 pm. Free. Fox Theatre, 2236 Queen E. girlcancreate.com.
A Night At The Brewery Evening of entertainment, craft beers and gourmet local food. 6-9 pm. $75. Black Creek Pioneer Village, Jane and Steeles. Pre-register 416-667-6295.
Off The Wall Hands-on art activities include drawing and costume-making. Saturdays 10 am-2 pm. Free w/ admission. Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas W. 416-979-6648, ago.net.
Pyjama Walk For Peace And Nonviolence March in your PJs to the Peace Garden as part of World March Days. Noon. Free. Yonge and Bloor. info@worldmarch.ca.
Saturday Shenanigans Drop in for shoe-themed arts and crafts. 11 am-4 pm. Free w/ admission. Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor W. 416-979-7799, batashoemuseum.ca.
Sk8 Culture Explore ice skating, roller skating, skateboarding and more on an outdoor ice rink. Fri through Sun to Dec 20, 6-11 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4866.
Stars For Wishes Workshops (Children's Wish Fdn) Chldren create their own crystal tree ornament. 10 am-noon. $20. Swarovski Crystal Wish Tree, Eaton Centre, Yonge and Dundas. Pre-register 647-439-8584.
Swedish Christmas Fair Traditional Swedish fair with a Lucia pageant, singing, folk dancing, handmade crafts, gingerbread cookies, a children's decoration workshop and more. Today and tomorrow noon-5 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000.
Toilet To Tap Thirsty City bus tour and workshop to celebrate World Toilet Day. 1 pm. Free (sugg $5 donation). Ashbridge Park, Queen and Woodward. 416-868-1983, thirstycitywalks.ca.
Toronto Decompresion 2009: Devolution DJs, interactive art, workshops, performances and more. 9 pm-5 am. $20 plus food donation (costumes mandatory). Pia Bouman School, 6 Noble. burnon.ca.
Ukulele Journeys Introductory class with Thomas Dean. 2-3:30 pm. Free. St Anne's Church, 270 Gladstone. 416-477-1554.
Mary Wallace Reading from her book I Is For Inuksuk for kids five and up. Noon. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.

Sunday, November 22

Benefits

Bargains On Bloor (Toronto Hadassah-WIZO) Designer fashions, trinkets, treats and more. 9 am-4 pm. $2. Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. info@hadassahwizoto.ca.
From The Stroll To Law School (support former child prostitute Wendy Babcock's endeavour into law school) Entertainment by Bri-anne Swan, Rani Rhinestone and others. 7 pm-2 am. Pwyc. Goodhandy's, 120 Church. michellevanlooy@gmail.com.
Heart Of Fashion (North York General Hospital) A fashion show, themed fashion zones, food and more. 6:30-9:30 pm. $75. Bayview Village Shopping Centre, 2901 Bayview. 416-756-6944.

Events

Betterment Summit Stories on community inspiration followed by discussion. Noon-4 pm. Pwyc. Drake Hotel, 1150 Queen W. Pre-register at bettermentmovementsummit.eventbrite.com.
Cast Iron Chef Class on cooking Victorian curries. 1-4 pm. $20. Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery. Pre-register 416-396-2819.
Comicon Comic book show with artists Tom Raney, Agnes Garbowska and others. 11 am-5 pm. $1-$9. Metro Convention Centre, 255 Front W. hobbystar.com.
Conservation Through Research And Education Talk by Polar Bears Int'l president Robert W Buchanan. 2 pm. Free. Toronto Zoo, Meadowvale N of 401. Pre-register 416-392-5947.
Green Celebrations Eco-Fair Music, demos, eco-minded products and more. Noon-4 pm. Free. Glebe Road United Church, 20 Glebe E. 416-489-3172.
Jamie Oliver The organic chef talks about the food revolution. 2 pm. $50-100. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe. 416-872-4255.
Judy Rebick Talk on issues in the Middle East. 10:30 am. Donation. Trinity-St Paul's Church, 427 Bloor W. sheryljohnson123@yahoo.ca.
Rich Meyrick Reading and signing. 3 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.
On A Pedestal: From Renaissance Chopines To Baroque Heels Illustrated talk. 2-3 pm. $14. Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor W. 416-979-7799, batashoemuseum.ca.
Paint-A-Mini-Clog Sundays Parents and kids three to nine paint clogs, try on shoes and explore the galleries. 11 am-4 pm. Free w/ admission. Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor W. 416-979-7799, batashoemuseum.ca.
Richard Twardzik: Tragic Genius Of Jazz Piano Jazz lecture/workshop with Jack Chambers. 2 pm. $9. Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. 416-924-6211 ext 0.
Teddy Bear Show And Sale Handcrafted bears and bear-making supplies. 10 am-3 pm. $7, stu/srs $6, children free. Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence E. 416-703-1697.
Toronto Portlands Marine and railway memorial walk. 1:30 pm. Free. King and Sumach. 416-593-2656.
Wholistic Open House Seminars and sample treatments. 1-4 pm. Free. All One Wholistic Clinic, 141 Roncesvalles. alloneclinic.com.

Monday, November 23

Benefits

It's Always Something (Gilda's Club Greater Toronto) Comedy variety show. 8 pm. $99-$250. Princess of Wales Theatre, 300 King W. ticketking.com.

Events

American And Canadian Attitudes To Religion In The Public Sphere Lecture by philosophy prof Michael Ruse. 7 pm. Free. Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles W. 416-946-5937.
Complete Streets Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation meeting on designing streets for all users. 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. Metro Hall, 55 John. torontocat.ca.
Cultural Knowledge And The Healthy Society Research and innovation summit on health, art and design. To Nov 25. Free. OCAD, 100 McCaul. Pre-register ocad.ca/healthsummit.
Get Sustainable Energy Funds Presentation on the city's sustainable energy funds. 5:30-8 pm. Free. Rivoli, 332 Queen W. Pre-register getsocial2.eventbrite.com.
How Hollywood Looks At Religion Lecture and film clips with Shlomo Schwartzberg. 7:30-9:30 pm. $15. Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. 416-924-6211 ext 606.
Watertable Tour of Lisa Steele and Kim Tomczak's public art installation. 5:30-6:30 pm. Free. Fort York Blvd, under the Gardiner Expressway W of Bathurst. kimlisa@sympatico.ca.

Tuesday, November 24

Benefits

Christmas Bazaar (St Christopher House) Handmade crafts, a white elephant table, café and more support programs for the elderly. Today 10 am-7:30 pm; tomorrow and Nov 26, 10:30 am-4:30 pm. Free. 248 Ossington. 416-532-4828 ext 114.
Star Portraits (local charities) Auction of portraits of celebrities including Margaret Trudeau, Romeo Dallaire and Ashley MacIsaac. 6 pm. Free. Joyner Waddington's, 111 Bathurst. 416-504-5100.

Events

Animal Experimentation Olivier Berreville lectures against the use of live animals for biomedical research. 7-9 pm. Free. OISE, rm 4422, 252 Bloor W. 905-738-7518.
Bicycling In Toronto Speakers, movies and discussion on where we are, where we came from and where we're going. 8:15 pm. Free. OISE, rm 5-260, 252 Bloor W. 416-707-3509.
Documenting The Local Music Scene Workshop with Colin Medley. 7 pm. Free. Kennedy/Eglinton Library, 2380 Eglinton E. torontopubliclibrary.ca.
Earlscourt: From Shacktown To Corso Italia Urban ecology walk. 1:30 pm. Free. Lansdowne and St Clair. 416-593-2656.
Green Drinks Toronto-Danforth Greens hold a pub night. 7 pm. Free. Gabby's, 729 Danforth. danforthgreens.ca.
History On A Plate Riverdale Historical Soc talk by culinary historian Liz Driver. 6:30 pm. $5. St Matthew's Anglican Church. susanp@pathcom.com.
H1n1 Flu: Capitalism's Pandemic Forum. 7:30-9 pm. Free. Bahen Centre, 40 St George. 416-972-6391.
Keyhole Sessions Life drawing with an alternative edge. Tuesdays 8-10 pm. $12. Lower Ossington Theatre, 100 Ossington. thekeyholesessions.com.
Local History Books On Toronto's Neighbourhoods East York Historical Soc presentation. 7:30 pm. Free. S Walter Stewart Library, 170 Memorial Park. eastyork.org.
Middle Eastern Vegetarian Interactive demonstration. 6 pm. $50. St Lawrence Market, 93 Front E. Pre-register 416-860-0727.
Navigating Changing Conditions In Volatile Markets Investment seminar. 6:30-8 pm. Free. Reference Library, 789 Yonge. 416-393-7245.
Pool Permit Open House Evening of info and mobilization to save Kensington Community School's pool. 6-7:30 pm. Free. 401 College. 416-393-1290.
Scaredy Squirrel Reading by children's author Mélanie Watt. 10-11 am. Free. Indigo, 55 Bloor W. chapters.indigo.ca.
Slow Cooker Comfort Food Talk by cookbook author Judith Finlayson. Noon-1:30 pm. $15 (includes lunch). Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, 111 Queen's Park. 416-586-8080.
Speaking Out: Jewish Artists Uncensored Panel discussion on censorship, artistic blacklisting and freedom of expression with artists Reena Katz, David Buchbinder, Kate Lushington and bh yael, and moderator Susan G Cole. 7:30 pm. $10. Winchevsky Centre, 585 Cranbrooke. 416-789-5502.

Wednesday, November 25

Benefits

Big Hearts, Big Night! (Good Neighbours' Club) This benefit features performances by Elaine Overholt, Jack Lenz and the singing divas of W Network's show Big Voice. 7 pm. $185. Arts & Letters Club, 14 Elm. 416-366-5377 ext 221, goodneighboursclub.org.
Dance & Donate (Children's Storefront) Dance to help rebuild the parent-child centre that burned down. 7-9 pm. Donation. Community of Christ Church, 1443 Bathurst. childrensstorefront.com.
Frankly My Dear, I Don't... Karaoke (Liaison of Independent Filmmakers) Film karaoke and silent auction. 7-10 pm. $10, stu $8. Gladstone, 1214 Queen W. 416-588-6444.
Stars Awards Gala (Mixed Theatre Company) Mixed Theatre Co peformance by singer Jackie Richardson, an awards ceremony and silent auction. 6-10 pm. $75. SHAMBA Fdn, 48 Yonge. 416-515-8080.

Events

151 Years Of Union Station Illustrated talk. 7:30 pm. Free. Northern District Library, 40 Orchard View. 416-393-7610.
Adapting To Change In Neolithic And Bronze Age Crete Archaeology lecture by Jennifer Moody. 5:15 pm. Free. U of T Sandford Fleming Bldg, 10 King's College. 905-823-2819.
Australia Travel talk. 6:30 pm. Free. Intrepid Travel, 523 Bloor W. 416-531-1332.
Deck The Hall! Open house with seasonal music, crafts and a visit by Santa. 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. Assembly Hall, 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park. 416-338-7255.
Life Drawing Wednesdays 7-9 pm. Free. Ben Navaee Gallery, 1111 Queen E. Pre-register bennavaeegallery.com.
Owl Prowl Search for the great horned, long eared, saw whet and screech owls. 7 pm. $7, fam $25. Humber Arboretum, Finch and hwy 27. Pre-register 416-675-5009.
Renaissance Venice: The Courtesan On Stage Illustrated talk. 6-7 pm. $14. Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor W. 416-979-7799.
Stress And Nutrition Lecture. 7:30 pm. $5. OISE, rm 5250, 252 Bloor W. Pre-register 416-733-2117.
Voices For Justice Workshop for family caregivers. 5-7 pm. Free. Mt Sinai Hospital, ste L1-012, 60 Murray. Pre-register 416-586-4800 ext 5.

Thursday, November 26

Benefits

Art Attack (Buddies in Bad Times Theatre) Live auction of contemporary art, cultural adventures and other cool stuff. 7 pm. $10. 12 Alexander. 416-975-8555.
Better With Age (North York Seniors Centre) Wine tasting and silent auction. 6:45 pm. $60. Delmanor Northtown Retirement Residence, 5351 Yonge. 416-733-4111 ext 19.
Touched By Fire (Mood Disorders Assoc) Show and sale of art from Ontario artists with mood disorders. 7-10 pm. Free. Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Pk. 416-486-8046 ext 222.

Events

Empower: Youth, Arts And Activism World AIDS Day launch of an HIV/AIDS activism manual for youth with drag shows, visual art and more. 6-9 pm. Free. William Doo Auditorium, 5 Willcocks. cuhi.admin@utoronto.ca.
Hankering To Rid The Province Of Our Nuke Plants? Info session on volunteering with Ontario Clean Air Alliance. 6-7 pm. Free. 519 Church Community Centre. angela@cleanairalliance.org.
Milk Film screening and discussion on issues presently faced by gay rights activists. 6:30 pm. $5-$10. NFB, 150 John. ocic.on.ca.
One Of A Kind Christmas Show And Sale Handcrafted gifts, clothing, jewellery, crafts and more plus hands-on workshops. To Dec 6, weekdays 11 am-10 pm Sat 10 am-9 pm, Sun 10 am-6 pm. $9-$15, children free. Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place. oneofakindshow.com.
The Other Side Of The Story Discussion on the business side of romance writing with author Deborah Cooke. 7-9 pm. Free. North York Central LIbrary, 5120 Yonge. Pre-register 416-395-5639.
Shane Peacock Reading from The Vanishing Girl for kids nine and up. 7 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.
Star Wars: In Concert Multimedia event with visuals, a live orchestra, choir and narration from Anthony Daniels plus an exhibit of Star Wars costumes and more. 7:30 pm. $43-$83. Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay. 416-870-8000.
Using Healing Foods To Soothe Inflammation Lecture. 7-8:30 pm. Free. Big Carrot, 348 Danforth. 416-466-2129.

Friday, November 27

Benefits

Carole Pope (Buddies in Bad Times Theatre) Pope performs with guest Lily Frost. 8 pm. $25. Buddies, 12 Alexander. 416-975-8555.
Photorama 2009 (Gallery TPW) Fundraising sale of contemporary photo-based art by Edward Burtynsky, Carol Condé, Susan Schelle and many others. To Dec 5. Free. Gallery TPW, 56 Ossington. gallerytpw.ca.

Events

Casa Loma Big Band Dance Dance to the sounds of Toronto All-Star Big Band. 8 pm. $50. Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terr. 416-533-3553 ext 22.
Gowntown Drag contest and dance party with DJ Dwayne Minard. 10:30 pm. $5. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander. 416-975-8555.
Reinventing Gravity Prof John Moffat lectures on his modified theory of gravity. 7 pm. $5, stu $4. Centre for Inquiry Ontario, 216 Beverley. pwalls@centreforinquiry.net.
While Life Expo Speakers, exhibits and more on the latest in natural health and alternative medicine. Today 4-9 pm; tomorrow 11 am-8 pm; Nov 29, 10 am-6 pm. $8/wknd; lecture pass $15. Metro Convention Centre, 255 Front W. wholelifeexpo.ca.
Women's Meditation Mindfulness meditation with instruction. 7-9:30 pm. $5 sugg. 519 Church Community Centre. torontowomensmeditation.webs.com.

Saturday, November 28

Benefits

Brainsgiving 09! (St Mike's Neurotrauma ICU) Comedy benefit with Pat Thornton, Sara Hennessey, Approximately 3 Peters and others. 9 pm. $20. Pilot, 22 Cumberland. brainsgiving.ca.
Hunger Banquet (Oxfam Canada) Toronto Zen Centre vegetarian dinner. 5:30-7:30 pm. $40 plus food donation. Steelworkers Hall, 25 Cecil. 416-766-3400.
Karma 4 Keys (West Toronto KEYS for Inclusion) All-levels yoga class, live jazz and a silent auction. 6:30 pm. $20, stu/child $15. Downward Dog Yoga Centre, 735 Queen W. 416-703-8805.
Twisted (Dystonia Medical Research Fdn) Film screening, silent auction and a raffle. 6:30 pm. $55. Hazelton Place Residences, 111 Avenue. 416-789-0154.

Events

Cavalcade Of Lights Musical performances by Steven Page, Keshia Chante and others plus fireworks, a tree lighting and skating party. 7 pm. Free. Nathan Philipps Square, Queen and Bay. toronto.ca.
Celtic Christmas Music, dance and traditions from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. 2:30 pm. $25. Assembly Hall, 1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park. 416-338-7255.
Christmas Bazaar Wreaths, baked goods, children's performances, storytelling and more. 2-5 pm. Free. Toronto German School, 585 Cranbrooke. 416-922-6413.
Demystifying The Digital Camera Workshop. 10 am-2 pm. $75. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. Pre-register 416-973-4093.
Disease & Distress! Ontario Genealogical Soc workshop on how our ancestors handled adversity. 10 am-4 pm. $45. North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge. Pre-register 416-733-2608.
Engaging Kids With Contemporary Art Parents workshop. 10 am-noon. $10. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. Pre-register 416-973-4093.
Flux & Motion Erotic writing workshop. 10:30 am-5:30 pm. $75. Carlton/Sherbourne area. Pre-register 416-922-8744.
Holiday Card-Making Workshop. 10 am-1 pm. $50. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. Pre-register 416-973-4093.
Charles Pachter Reading from his illustrated numbers book Canada Counts for kids two to five. 3 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.
Pet Wellness Weekend Tips on veterinary care, grooming and more. Today 11 am-4 pm, tomorrow 11 am-3 pm. Free. PetWays, 245 Queens Quay W. 416-360-7297.
Slam! Sex. Love. Asian Men! Interactive forum on sex, health and lifestyle for gay, bisexual, straight and trans Asian men. 10 am-4 pm. Free. Oakham House, 63 Gould. Pre-register acas.org.
Underground Craft Show One-of-a-kind thingamajiggies. Noon-6 pm. Free. 557 Queen W. wix.com/undergroundcraft/show.

Sunday, November 29

Benefits

Line Art 2009 (Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youthline) Live art auction. 6 pm. Free ($20 sugg donation). Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas W. youthline.ca/lineart.
Psychic Brunch (Toronto Humane Soc) Organic brunch and a reading. 11 am-3 pm. $40. Big Mamma's Boy, 554 Parliament. psychicbrunch.ca.

Events

Adult And Child Wreath-Making Workshop Create a wreath using nature's bounty. 10 am. $10. Colborne Lodge, High Park. 416-392-6916.
Classic Animation On Paper Two-part workshop with Bryce Hallett. Today and Dec 6. 11 am-5 pm. $90. Toronto Animated Image Soc, 60 Atlantic. Pre-register 416-533-7889.
Gingerbread House Workshop Hands-on class for kids of all ages. 1 and 3 pm. $30. Montgomery's Inn, 4709 Dundas W. Pre-register 416-394-8113.
Holidah Greeting Cards Family workshop for kids six and up. 1-4 pm. $15, child $8. Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery. 416-396-2819.
Temple-Life Fair Open house. 11 am-12:30 pm. Free. Holy Blossom Temple, 1950 Bathurst. 416-789-3291 ext 227.
Yidrhythmics Interactive music workshop based in Jewish music with Brian Katz. 2 pm. $15, fam $15 (Dec 6 only). Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina. Pre-register 416-924-6211 ext 133.

Monday, November 30

Benefits

Media Trivia Challenge (STOP Neighbourhood Food Network/LAMP Community Health Centre) Join media stars in a game of trivia. 7 pm. $75. Steam Whistle Brewing, 255 Bremner. triviafundraiser@gmail.com.

Events

A Pipeline Through Troubled Land: Afghanistan, Canada And The New Great Energy Game Lecture by energy economist John Foster. 7 pm. Pwyc ($5-$10 sugg). Steelworkers Hall, 25 Cecil. davenport4peace@gmail.com.

Tuesday, December 1

Events

Getting Into The Scene Workshop with Polaris Music Prize founder Steve Jordan. 7 pm. Free. Nothern District Library, 40 Orchard View. torontopubliclibrary.ca.
Holiday Tapas Party Interactive demonstration. 6 pm. $50. St Lawrence Market, 93 Front E. Pre-register 416-860-0727.
The Pastor Phelps Project: A Fundamentalist Cabaret Performance and forum on urban/inner city educational issues. 7 pm. Pwyc. Robert Gill Theatre, 214 College. 416-978-7986.
Jeff Rubin Discussing the end of globalization with John Stackhouse. 7 pm. Free. Reference Library, 789 Yonge. torontopubliclibrary.ca.

Wednesday, December 2

Events

Bring "The Girls" Out Info on the links between breast cancer and everyday products plus a lip-balm workshop for women 18 to 35. 7-9 pm. Free. Centre for Social Innovation, 215 Spadina. Pre-register 416-960-2284 ext 222.
Raids Into The Mohawk And Schoharie Valleys In 1781 United Empire Loyalists meeting and talk. 7:30 pm. Free. St David's Church, 49 Donlands. 416-921-7756.

Thursday, December 3

Events

Harnessing Community Capacity For Reducing Environmental Health Risk Lecture on pesticide harm in Ecuador. 4-5:30 pm. Free. University College, rm UC256, 15 King's College Circle. ehjic.ca.
Native Drumming And Healing Workshop. 7-8 pm. $10 sugg. Ellington's, 805 St Clair W. 416-652-9111.
Returning To Sinai: Revelation At Qumran Lecture by professor Hindy Najman. 6 and 8 pm. $28, online $26; stu $25, online $23. Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-5797.

Friday, December 4

Benefits

Sounds Of The Season (Daily Bread Food Bank) Join your favourite CBC Radio personalities for a day of live on-air programming and music. 5:30 am. Food bank donation. CBC Broadcasting Centre, 250 Front W. cbc.ca.
Woodlawn Pottery Studio Show & Sale (Woodlawn YWCA) Handmade ceramics. Today 5-9 pm; tomorrow and Dec 6, 11 am-5 pm. Free. Gladstone, 1214 Queen W. 416-964-0758.

Saturday, December 5

Benefits

Arts And Crafts Fair (Riverdale Historical Soc) Local artisans and crafters sell their wares. 10 am-1 pm. Free. Riverdale Presbyterian Church, 662 Pape. riverdalehistoricalsociety.com.
Gingerbread Build (Habitat for Humanity) Build a gingerbread house and help build homes for families. Dec 5 and Dec 6, 10, 11:30 am, 1 and 2:30 pm. $50. Delta Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard W. torontohabitat.ca.

Events

Artisans' Gift Fair Handcrafted gifts. Today, tomorrow, Dec 12, 13, 19 and 20, noon-6 pm. Free. Tranzac, 292 Brunswick. 416-923-8137.
Cavalcade Of Lights Soul/funk skating party with Jully Black. 7 pm. Free. Nathan Philipps Square, Queen and Bay. toronto.ca.
Christmas Around The World Multicultural Christmas displays and an international marketplace. Dec 5 to 6. Free. City Hall Rotunda, Queen and Bay. 416-368-8743.
Decadent Holiday Desserts Hands-on cooking class. 1 pm. $50. St Lawrence Market, 93 Front E. Pre-register 416-860-0727.
Elves In The Workshop Kids two to eight make a decorated gingerbread house. Today, Dec 12 and 19 at various times. $20, child $17.50. Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace. 416-923-1171.
Harbourkids Performances, films, outdoor skating and more for families. Today and tomorrow 11 am-5 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4000.
Renaissance Venice: The Courtesan On Stage Workshop. 9:30 am-11:30 pm. $40 1 adult, 1 child), add child $10. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. Pre-register 416-973-4093.
Shadow Puppetry Traditions Workshop with Puppetmongers Theatre. Today and tomorrow 10 am-5 pm. $190, adv $175. 401 Logan. Pre-register 416-469-3555.
Winter Fling Holiday craft fair. 11 am-6 pm. $1, children free. St Stephen in-the-Fields, 103 Bellevue. acraftthing.com.
Women Writing Men/Men Writing Women Writing workshop with author Marnie Woodrow. Noon-4 pm. $45. Toronto Writers' Centre, 627 Bloor W. Pre-register 647-427-4737.

Sunday, December 6

Benefits

Jazz Fundraiser For Haiti Kids (The Joy and Hope of Haiti) Performances by players from New Imperial Jazz Band, Hot Five Jazzmakers and others. 3:30-6:30 pm. Donation. Rex, 194 Queen W. 416-486-1963.

Events

The Art Of 18th-Century French Porcelain Lecture by curator Jeffrey Munger. 4 pm. $10. Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, 111 Queen's Park. 416-586-8080.
Gardiner Family Day Activities on the theme of the 12 days of Christmas. 1-4 pm. Free w/ admission. Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, 111 Queen's Park. 416-586-8080.
Karen Fisman Signing. 3 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.

Wednesday, December 9

Benefits

A Christmas Carol (U of T food and clothing bank) Dramatic reading of the Dickens' classic with Ralph Benmergui and others. 7 pm. $20, stu $15. Hart House Great Hall, 7 Hart House Circle. uofttix.ca.

Events

The European Adventures Of The Group Of Seven Lecture by Ross King. 7-8:30 pm. $18, stu $12. Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas W. ago.net.

Thursday, December 10

Events

The Bible In The Religious Islamic Imagination Lecture by professor Walid Saleh. 6 and 8 pm. $28, online $26; stu $25, online $23. Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-5797.

Friday, December 11

Events

Toronto Motorcycle Show New models showcase, gear, accessories and more. Today and tomorrow 10 am-9 pm; Dec 13, 10 am-5 pm. $16, yth $10, under six free. Metro Convention Centre, 222 Bremner. mtccc.com.

Saturday, December 12

Benefits

City Of Craft (Streetknit) Contemporary handmade design show including ceramics and birch wood puppets plus workshops and installations. Today noon-7 pm, tomorrow noon-5 pm. $2. Theatre Centre, 1087 Queen W. cityofcraft.com.

Events

Barbara Reid Signing. 3 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.
Cavalcade Of Lights Dance music skating party with State of Shock. 7 pm. Free. Nathan Philipps Square, Queen and Bay. toronto.ca.
Christmas Party For Kids Hands-on cooking class. 1 pm. $50. St Lawrence Market, 93 Front E. Pre-register 416-860-0727.
Dj Sk8 Night Skate on an outdoor ice rink beside the lake to DJs spinning rock, electro, techno, disco and house. 8-11 pm. Free. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. 416-973-4866.
Merry Stripmas! Skin Tight Outta Sight burlesque Christmas pageant. 10 pm. $20, adv $15. Cadillac Lounge, 1296 Queen W. totix.ca.

Sunday, December 13

Benefits

Market Days (Steven Lewis Fdn) Sale of enchanted animals and dolls. 11 am-8 pm. Free. Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie. eatmywords.org.

Events

Chinese Performances Dance and music performances plus a buffet dinner. 4-7:30 pm. $30, stu/srs $20, child $10. Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, 111 Queen's Park. 416-586-8080.

Tuesday, December 15

Events

Jewish And Christian Origins As Revealed By The Dead Sea Scrolls Lecture by professor Risa Levitt Kohn. 6 and 8 pm. $28, online $26; stu $25, online $23. Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park. 416-586-5797.

Saturday, December 19

Events

Cavalcade Of Lights Alternative music skating party with Faber Drive. 7 pm. Free. Nathan Philipps Square, Queen and Bay. toronto.ca.
Barbara Reid Young adults book signing. 3 pm. Free. McNally Robinson, 1090 Don Mills. 416-384-0084.

Sunday, December 20

Events

Candlelight Service Of Lessons And Carols Traditional readings, choir and congregational carols. 7 pm. Donation. Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen E. 416-363-0331 ext 26.

Monday, December 21

Events

Humber Arboretum Winter Camp Nature walks, chickadee feeding, tobogganing, animal tracking and more for kids five to 13. Today, tomorrow and Dec 23, 9 am-5 pm. $125, $45/day. Humber Arboretum, Finch and hwy 27. Pre-register 416-675-5009.

Saturday, December 26

Events

Christmas Treats Walk Visit with zoo animals and watch them get their seasonal treats. 10 am. Free w/ admission. Toronto Zoo, Meadowvale N of 401. 416-392-5929.