POTTED POTTER
Written and performed by BBC stars Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, this show condenses the entire Harry Potter series into a mere 70 minutes. The show features songs and even audience participation in games of Quidditch. This treat for any Potter fan plays until December 21 at the Panasonic Theatre, with tickets going for as little as about $30.
TORONTO CHRISTMAS MARKET
The annual market takes over the Distillery District from November 28 to December 21 with local vendors, entertainment, shopping, and crafts. While there are tons of things for students to indulge in (Belgian waffles, poutine, and a beer garden), it’s also family-friendly with sing-alongs, a life-size gingerbread house, and an appearance by Santa. And hey, it’s free.
THE NUTCRACKER
The National Ballet of Canada’s annual Christmas show runs from December 13 until January at the Four Seasons Centre. This classic show tells the story of a nutcracker that comes to life and battles the rat king to find his love, the Sugar Plum Fairy. The show’s not to be missed this holiday season, especially since the cheapest tickets are $25.
EDGEFEST JINGLE BELL CONCERT SERIES
Edgefest is back to grace music lovers with a slew of concerts spread out over December 4–20 at a variety of venues incuding Danforth Music Hall, Sound Academy, and Phoenix. Some of the bands performing are Mother Mother, Death from Above 1979, and Tokyo Police Club. The prices vary depending on the show.
HOLIDAZED AND CONFUSED
If you’re in the mood for some improv, set a date and head over to Second City before January to catch their show, Holidazed and Confused. The show is a collection of sketches that poke fun at the stresses and rituals that come with the holiday season. Tickets start at $22 and the show runs for about 95 minutes with an intermission.
DJ SKATE NIGHTS
Every Saturday from December 13 to January 17, DJs will turn the Natrel Rink into a dance floor for Torontonians to enjoy for free. Talent like Mel Boogie, DJ L’Oqenz, and Bangs & Blush will be performing for the masses. Looks like your party nights have been taken care of for the next few Saturdays.
FAIR DECEMBER GIFT AND CRAFT SHOW
On December 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fair December is starting up its ninth year and will bring together more than 50 artisans. You can shop for ceramics, scarves, soaps, perfumes, and other handcrafted gifts. The fair also has a silent auction with projects donated by the artists; all the proceeds go to the Weekend to End Cancer and Queen Elizabeth Public School. Tickets are $4.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
The classic Christmas tale comes to the Meadowvale Theatre stage on December 14. The show includes local talent from Mississauga’s Recital Dance Program, the Culture Division Dance Pak, and other groups. The tickets are $21—not a bad price to support local talent and watch the classic in time for Christmas.
THE BECK FESTIVAL
UTM’s Theatre Erindale returns with an annual celebration of one-act student plays independently produced by the theatre. From December 11 to 13 in the MiST Theatre, students will have the chance to watch UTM talent. The tickets are pay what you want, with a suggested price of $5.
MISSISSAUGA FESTIVAL CHOIR
This jazz festival takes place on December 6 at the RBC Theatre for $30. Featuring favourites from A Charlie Brown Christmas and White Christmas, Mississauga’s own, and one of Canada’s top jazz vocalists, Shannon Butcher will perform with her trio. Warming up with a great night of jazz isn’t a bad way to relax with family and friends this month.
