October brings crisp autumn energy, seasonal treats, and more local events to our historic neighbourhood! Experience How to Train Your Dragon 2 in concert at Meridian Hall (Oct 16–17), attend the Fall For Dance North Festival (Oct 15 – 25), or step into The Burton Experience pop-up at Café Nicole. Hungry? Try scratch-cooked Indian dishes at the new Rikki Tikki, grab a fall sandwich at Au Pain Doré, or reserve a Thanksgiving Brunch at the Omni King Edward.
Looking for a new challenge or activity? Train with Coach Yaath at Altitude Athletic Training, explore with Toonie Tours or pre-register your pup for Fur Ball 2026 (Oct 18). Searching for a fresh look? Check out new Spanish eyewear at St. Lawrence Eye Care.
And that’s just a taste! Keep scrolling below to discover more fall events, dining specials, and local favourites all month long!
🎬 How to Train Your Dragon 2 in Concert at Meridian Hall (Oct 16 – 17)
Experience the spectacular sequel presented in HD, with its thrilling score performed live to picture!
Winner of the Golden Globe Award for best animated feature film, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon 2 is that rare sequel that’s a worthy successor to the original! Hailed by critics and audiences alike, the acclaimed adventure continues featuring groundbreaking animation, brilliant storytelling, and stirring emotion.
When Hiccup and Toothless discover a secret ice cave with wild dragons and a mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves in an epic battle to save the future of man and dragons!
How To Train Your Dragon 2 In Concert features this spectacular sequel presented in HD with composer John Powell’s thrilling score performed live to picture by a full symphony orchestra in an awe-inspiring experience for the whole family.
Friday, October 16, 2026: 7:30 pm
Saturday, October 17, 2026: 2 pm
Meridian Hall
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com/Meridian-Hall
Instagram: @tolivegram
🆕 12-Hour Braises & Scratch Indian at Rikki Tikki (Now Open!)
Rikki Tikki has opened its flagship at 71 Jarvis Street, bringing a strictly scratch-cooked Indian kitchen to Old Town Toronto.
Moving away from heavy cream and commercial pastes, our chefs focus on in-house micro-batch spice extractions, 12-hour slow-cooked braises, and wild-caught colossal prawns.
Located steps from St. Lawrence Market, we invite the neighbourhood to experience classical cooking executed with real kitchen discipline, paired alongside a curated wine program.
Rikki Tikki
71 Jarvis St, 647-342-2950
www.rikkitikki.ca
Instagram: @rikki.tikki.to
🐶 Fur Ball 2026 (Oct 18)
October 18 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
St James Park, +Google Map
Space is limited. CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER
Old Town Toronto BIA & Toronto Dog Moms are teaming up for the Fur Ball, a Halloween dog costume contest and fashion show, and your dog is invited to strut their stuff on the stage.
Dress up your dog in their spookiest, silliest, or most stylish costume and sign up for FREE. Our judges will be on the lookout for the best of the best, with awesome prize packs up for grabs.
Plus, some of our favourite vendors will be there selling all things dog, so bring your wallet along with your walking shoes.
Mark your calendars, grab your dog’s costume, and come out for a day of fun, treats, and tail wags!
Schedule
12:00 PM – Check-In Begins
1:00 PM – Costume Contest & Dog Parade (click here to pre-register)
2:00 PM – Finalists & Winners Announced
2:00 PM – Group Photo & Thank You
3:00 PM – Event Ends
Awards
1. Best Costume – Show us why you are the top dog!
2. Best Pair – Aka dog + human(s)
3. Most Creative Costume – Get creative!
Help spread the word by sharing on Facebook.
🫂 Join Silvie’s Founding Families Community
Silvie is inviting families to join its Founding Families community and help shape the future of the product.
Built for seniors living independently at home, Silvie offers a private, non-invasive way to give families peace of mind, with no cameras, microphones or wearables. Participating families receive a discount on Silvie, help getting set up and a closer connection with the team to share feedback and ideas.
If this sounds useful for your family, apply through the button below.
Silvie Powered by Pontosense
30 Adelaide St E, 12th Floor, 416-848-6305
www.silvie.com
🎵 Music Toronto Concert Series from $40 (Oct 8, 22, & Nov 3)
PABLO FERRÁNDEZ, cello
Thu Oct 8 7:30 pm
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
A prizewinner at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, as well as the prestigious ARD International Music Competition and Pablo Casals International Cello Competition, Pablo Ferrández has emerged as one of the most sought-after cellists of his generation, renowned for his brilliant command of the instrument and passionate music making. His Music Toronto recital pays tribute to the legendary Spanish cellist Pablo Casals and features solo works by Bach, Cassadó and Britten, performed on the magnificent 1689 “Archinto” Stradivarius cello, one of the great surviving instruments by Antonio Stradivari.
QUATUOR DANEL
Thu Oct 22 7:30 pm
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
Since performing for Music Toronto in the 2024/25 season, the French/Belgian quartet has continued to enthrall audiences all around the world. Nestled amongst works by Mozart, Mendelssohn and Tchaikovsky, Reflection on the Theme B-A-C-H by Sofia Gubaidulina, one of the towering composers of our time, offers a deeply spiritual musical experience that emanates from the composer’s fiercely independent Russian-born voice.
D. WIJERATNE/CDN CHAMBER ORCH
Tue Nov 3 7:30pm
6:30 pm – PRE-CONCERT CHAT With Jamie Parker and Dinuk Wijeratne
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre
Experience the dynamic fusion of global influences with Wijeratne’s composition Gajaga Vannama. This vibrant performance is complemented by beautiful string orchestra works by George Walker, Jennifer Montgomery, Kareem Roustom and Edvard Grieg.
Music Toronto
27 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.musictorontoconcerts.com
Instagram: @music.toronto.concerts
👻 The Burton Experience Returns to Café Nicole (Multiple Dates)
This October, Café Nicole transforms into a world of eerie cocktails, immersive décor and dark fantasy fun with The Burton Experience: Academy of Dark Arts at Novotel Toronto Centre. On select dates throughout the month, guests are invited to step inside this one-of-a-kind pop-up experience featuring potion-making, immersive entertainment and a beautifully spooky atmosphere in the heart of Old Town Toronto.
While you’re here, discover Café Nicole’s October monthly features, including our Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini and Butternut Squash Ravioli, paired with Kim Crawford Chardonnay for the perfect fall night out.
And for those looking for a midweek outing, Live Under the Arches continues every Wednesday at Café Nicole, bringing live music, dinner and drinks together in a warm, inviting setting.
Whether you’re visiting for the Burton Experience, live music or a seasonal bite and cocktail, there’s no shortage of reasons to stop by Café Nicole this October.
Café Nicole Bistro + Bar at Novotel Toronto Centre
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro
💪 Reach Your Next Goal with Coach Yaath at Altitude Athletic Training
From your first strength-training session to your next big adventure, Yaath can help you get there.
Yaath Rajshankar is the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach at Altitude Athletic Training, with a passion for helping people prepare for whatever challenge is next. As an honours graduate from the University of Toronto’s Kinesiology program, a Strength Conditioning and Specialist (NSCA – CSCS), certified UltraRunning Coach (UESCA), and Yoga Teacher (RYT-300 / CYT1000+ pending), Yaath takes a uniquely well-rounded approach to training. He works with a wide variety of clients from individuals dealing with complex chronic aches & pains to those training for their first marathon, preparing for a technical climb or a demanding high-altitude objective. Yaath’s goal isn’t simply to make you stronger in the gym – it’s to help you build the strength, resilience, confidence, and fitness to perform when it matters most.
Whether your next goal is your first squat, your first marathon, or your first summit, Yaath and the team at Altitude are here to help you get there.
Ready to see the difference working with an expert coach can make? Book a complimentary coach consult and learn about the Altitude difference.
Altitude Athletic Training
56 Colborne St, 416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic
🎭 Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) at Bluma Appel Theatre (Nov 6 – 22)
A joyful comedy that flips the script on Shakespeare’s most infamous heroines
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of her landmark play, acclaimed novelist and playwright Ann-Marie MacDonald steps into the spotlight as Constance Ledbelly, the overlooked academic who tumbles headlong into Shakespeare’s worlds and discovers that the heroines (and even Constance herself) may be capable of far more than anyone imagined.
At once wildly funny and moving, this Canadian classic unleashes Desdemona and Juliet as fierce forces of their own destiny and reminds us that sometimes the bravest act is claiming your own story.
Runtime: 2 hours, 30 minutes including intermission.
Canadian Stage, presented at Bluma Appel Theatre
27 Front St E, 416-368-3110
www.canadianstage.com
Instagram: @canadianstage
👓 New Gigi Studios Collection at St. Lawrence Eye Care
Gigi Studios is a Spanish independent handcrafted eyewear line all designed in Barcelona. This brand combines fashion with contemporary design. If you’re looking for funky, bold, and artistic frames, our new Gigi Studios collection will be exciting for you! Come visit us to view the new bold collection.
St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare
♻️ REmarket Donation Drive, Free Market, Small Bike Repairs, and Repair Cafe (Oct 21 – 22)
Brought to you by The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association Waste Reduction Group, Remarket returns to the St. Lawrence Market Tent at 125 The Esplanade, Wed Oct 21, 10am-7pm and Thurs Oct 22, 10am-6pm.
💆 Learn Thai Massage. Take Home a Little More from Bahn Thai Spa and School
This October, join us for an Intro to Thai Massage workshop and enjoy a special offer on your next step into the practice. When you register, receive a second pair of Thai fisherman’s pants at 50% off when purchasing your first pair. A little more comfort, a little more Thai tradition, and something lovely to take home.
Bahn Thai Spa and School
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool
🛋️ What We’re Loving Now at The Chesterfield Shop
Sofabeds are The Chesterfield Shop’s Specialty!
Your choice of sofa-bed size, with a great selection of gorgeous fabrics, top-grain leathers and mattress options. Contract mechanism for easy opening, and closing.
Sofa by day, and a welcoming sleep at night.
Proudly…Made in Canada.
Come into 275 King St. East and meet Stephan and his incredible team.
The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram: @thechesterfieldshop
🥪 Discover New Fall Sandwiches at Au Pain Doré
The Mortadella Gourmet:
A rustic ciabatta layered with authentic Italian mortadella, basil pesto, marinated eggplant, provolone cheese, arugula, and a spicy mayonnaise for a bold, savoury bite!
The Rustic VEGGIE:
A delicious Mediterranean sandwich served on schiacciata bread, filled with marinated eggplant, feta cheese, pesto, marinated roasted red peppers, crisp cucumbers, arugula, and a balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of freshness and bold flavour.
The perfect comforting menu!
Valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.
Au Pain Doré
81 Front St East, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com/en/
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe
🎭 Jordan at Young People’s Theatre (Oct 16 – 23)
A Hero’s Journey Home
Soar across space and time with Jordan, a young Cree boy who helps Indigenous children with the support of his faithful spirit bear, Maskwa. While his onstage journey is magical, the play is a vibrant tribute to a very real hero: Jordan River Anderson of Norway House Cree Nation, Manitoba.
The challenges young Jordan faced during his life became the heart of a national movement that led to the creation of Jordan’s Principle — a Canadian legal commitment ensuring equal healthcare for First Nations youth.
Join us for this empowering story that honours the fight for justice and equity for Indigenous communities.
Young People’s Theatre
165 Front St E, 416-862-2222
www.youngpeoplestheatre.org
Instagram: @ypttoronto
🍗 Thanksgiving Day Brunch (Oct 11) + Fall Afternoon Tea at Omni King Edward (Sats & Suns)
Thanksgiving Day Brunch
October 11 | 10:30 AM–1:30 PM
Vanity Fair Ballroom | Open to the Public
Gather around the table this Thanksgiving for an elevated holiday brunch buffet featuring beloved classics, seasonal delicacies and expertly crafted dishes. Celebrate the holiday with family and friends while enjoying a festive selection of flavours and traditions.
$129 per person, plus tax and 15% service charge.
Reservations are available by calling 416-945-3323 or emailing to-festive@omnihotels.com.
NEW Fall Afternoon Tea
Saturdays & Sundays | 12:30–5:00 PM
Last seating at 4:00 PM
Welcome the season with our new Fall Afternoon Tea at Omni King Edward. Enjoy an elegant afternoon of seasonal treats, tea and timeless tradition in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Reservations are recommended. Please call 416-945-3323 to book.
Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward
Instagram: @omnikingedward
✈️ Air Transat Named World’s Best Leisure Airline
It is with great enthusiasm that we at Transat Travel share that Air Transat was named the World’s Best Leisure Airline at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
This marks our eighth win and our fourth consecutive year receiving this honour. The award is based on the votes of millions of travellers around the world who place their trust in us, flight after flight.
As your local Canadian owned and operated Travel Agency in Old Town Toronto we are honoured to continue helping you with all your travel needs, whether with Air Transat or any of our other travel products. Thank you for all your support!
Transat Travel
56 Church St, 416-366-1961
www.transattravel.com/travel-agencies/toronto/
💃 Fall For Dance North Festival (Oct 15 – 25)
From intimate gestures to explosive energy, Fall for Dance North’s 2026 lineup of Canadian and international artists will move you in ways you have never seen before.
FREE presentations in Old Town Toronto will take place at Berczy Park (see below for times), as well as nearby Union Station.
TICKETED presentations will take place at St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts in the Jane Mallet Theatre and Bluma Appel Theatre as well as other downtown locations.
See the Festival Guide to learn more about all FREE and TICKETED presentations.
Single tickets are $25 + fees, or choose a Festival Pass for 15% off a bundle of four or more performances.
FREE in Berczy Park, 35 Wellington St E
Oct 15-16 at 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 17 at 1:00 – 1:40pm and 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 18 at 1:00 – 1:40pmOct 22 – 23 at 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 24 at 1:00 – 1:40pm and 6:30 – 7:10pm
Oct 25 at 1:00 – 1:40pm
Fall For Dance North Festival
416-907-5933
www.ffdnorth.com
❤️ All In For Autism: October Autism Fundraising at St. Louis Bar & Grill
We dedicate every October to raising awareness for Autism, by collecting donations for various charities that provide support for children with Autism, as well as their families and local schools!
This month, guests can make a $5.00 donation, and receive a coupon card with over $40.00 worth of savings! From Buy-One-Get-One Wings to Free Sweet Jesus offerings, guests can join the community in supporting a wonderfully important cause.
We’re All In For Autism! Any donation is greatly appreciated – Hope to see you soon!
St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.stlouiswings/locations/toronto92kingst/menu
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis
🆕 Toonie Tours: Walk, Bike & Explore Old Town Toronto
Discover Old Town Toronto with Toonie Tours from our NEW shop at 37 King Street East, on the southeast corner at Leader Lane. Book a pay-what-you-feel walking tour, a private city tour, a bike tour, or a bike rental and explore the neighbourhood with a local guide. Click here for all Toronto tours and activities.
Reserve ahead so we can hold your spot. We look forward to showing you the streets, stories, and hidden corners that make this part of the city worth lingering in.
Toonie Tours
37 King St E, 1-866-643-1847
www.toonietours.ca/toronto-tours
Instagram: @toonietours
🍩 Treat a Teacher in Your Life to Donuts from Dipped Donuts
Back to school is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to show teachers a little extra appreciation! Treat the educators in your life to a box of our gourmet donuts—the perfect way to say thank you for all that they do. Our boxes come in either 6 or 12, and you can choose between our Chef’s Choice box, featuring an assortment of our flavours, or a box of our fan-favourite Brown Butter Sea Salt donuts. We offer delivery across Toronto or convenient pickup at our store locations, making it easy to send a thank you to the people who make a difference every day.
Also, looking for a fun time out? Come visit us at Picklefest on October 3rd and 4th at Henderson Brewing Co. (128a Sterling Road, Toronto, ON) and try out our fresh and hot mini donut festival exclusive flavours: pickle cheesecake, and kimchi!
Dipped Donuts
St Lawrence Market, 95 Front St E, Lower Level
647-574-3785
www.dippeddonuts.ca
Instagram: @dippeddonutsinc
☕ Fall for the flavours of Autumn at Balzac’s!
Cozy up to Autumn with two seasonal favourites, crafted to capture everything you love about fall.
Our Caramel Apple menu blends buttery smooth caramel with crisp, fresh apple for a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
For those craving classic fall spice, our Pumpkin Harvest Latte and Chai Latte are made with real pumpkin purée, maple syrup, and warm pumpkin spices.
Whether you’re layering up for cooler days or still catching the last warm rays of sunshine, both are available hot or iced — stop by and taste the flavours of fall today!
Balzac’s Coffee
10 Market St, 416-368-4949
www.balzacs.com
Instagram: @balzacscoffee
🎃 Your Favourite Fall Flavour is Back at Bomba Gelato
Fall is here, and pumpkin gelato is back at Bomba! This season, you’ll find it in jars, ready to take home and enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Pick one up while exploring St. Lawrence Market, or make a special trip to bring a little taste of autumn home with you.
Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, Lower Level, Market St. Side
95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato
🦃 Thanksgiving Weekend Celebration at HotHouse Restaurant
Thanksgiving weekend is fast approaching! Allow us to assist! Join us for a 3 course prix-fixe dining experience or Pre-Order our takeout dinner for two and we’ll prep it for pick up, multiply your order as required! Heat it up at home or pick it up hot & ready!
HotHouse Restaurant
35 Church St, 416-366-7800
www.hothouserestaurant.com
Instagram: @hothouserestaurant
🆕 Lamb Chops in Bindia’s New Look
Bindia has a fresh new look, but the Tandoori Lamb Chops are still the dish regulars come back for! They’re marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in our clay tandoor, so they come out charred on the outside and juicy inside. Try them in our newly renovated dining room across from St. Lawrence Market: a glowing onyx bar, chandeliers and long tables made for good company. Planning a team dinner or year-end party? Our private room is ready for groups.
Bindia
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro
🥋 Your Child got Knocked Down. Now What?
It’s an uncomfortable question, but one worth asking. Because the question is not about IF it will happen, but WHEN.
It’s about KNOWING WHAT TO DO when something unexpected happens.
What if someone grabs them?
What if they fall?
What if someone is sitting on top of them?
Can they stay calm enough to think?
Can they create space?
Can they get back to their feet?
Can they get away?
At Old Toronto Martial Arts, our kids, youth and teen BJJ training will give your children the opportunity to work through these situations in a controlled, supervised environment.
They learn to recognize positions, understand leverage, escape, regain control and—most importantly—think under pressure.
Because confidence isn’t knowing that nothing will ever happen.
It’s knowing: “If something does happen, I have some idea what to do.”
SCHEDULE:
🗓️🥋Kids BJJ (ages 5-7) MON/WED/FRI AT 4:30, TUE AT 4:30
🗓️🥋Youth BJJ (ages 8-11) MON/WED/FRI AT 5:15
🗓️🥋Teen BJJ (ages 12+) MON/WED/FRI AT 6
🗓️🥊Youth & Teen Kickboxing (ages 8+) TU/THU AT 5:15
♟️Chess Club 5PM MON-FRI
Book a trial class for your child today.
Old Toronto Martial Arts
154 The Esplanade, 647-761-2865
www.oldtorontomartialarts.com
Instagram: @oldtorontoma
💆🏽♀️ 20% OFF Body, Facial & Waxing Services at LudaBello Salon
Something NEW has arrived at LudaBello!☺️
Discover our new body, facial & waxing services, including relaxing head, neck & shoulder massage, lymphatic body massage, body sculpting & contouring, Hydrafacial, sensitive skin treatments, lymphatic face lift, and professional waxing.
To celebrate the launch, enjoy 🌹 20% OFF 🌹all body, facial & waxing services until December 30, 2026.
Relax, refresh and take some time for yourself right here in the heart of Old Town. ♥️
LudaBello Salon
179 king St E, 647-600-2787
www.ludabello.ca/services
Instagram: @ludabellosalon
🏛️ What is Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is made up of commercial and industrial property owners and their non-residential tenants who join together under a volunteer Board of Management (BIA Board) to carry out improvements and promote economic development within their designated area…(click here to continue reading.)
🗺️ What are the Boundaries of Old Town Toronto?
📥 How to Submit to This Newsletter
Do you represent a commercial property, or a business located within a commercial property, inside the boundaries of the Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area? If you are not currently receiving our Members Newsletter (which includes the monthly submission form for Where To Support Local), please subscribe by clicking here.
Am I a Member? All commercial property owners and businesses located within them, within the Old Town Toronto BIA boundaries, are automatically members of our not-for-profit organization and are eligible to submit one entry per publication of Where To Support Local.
