Welcome to the City of Toronto website

• Colborne Lodge in High Park
• Fort York National Historic Site
• Gibson House
• Historic Zion Schoolhouse
• Mackenzie House
• Montgomery's Inn
• Scarborough Museum
• Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens
• Todmorden Mills Heritage site

Colborne Lodge

South end of High Park on Colborne Lodge Drive. Limited free parking
416-392-6916
clodge@toronto.ca
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Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 12 to 4 p.m.
Colborne Lodge participates in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. This year's theme is: "Creators, Makers and Innovators". Discover early Toronto architect, engineer and land surveyor John Howard's creation of his home and the novel ideas that he incorporated into the building and furnishings of Colborne Lodge, and other projects. Tours every twenty minutes, last tour at 3:45 p.m. Admission is FREE.

A Regency Picnic and Dance at Colborne Lodge
Sunday, June 16, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
11 to 12 p.m. – Picnic
12 to 2 p.m. – Dancing (Basic English Country Dance skills are required). Jane Austen would certainly have enjoyed the afternoon we have planned for you on the grounds of the Regency-era home of High Park founder, John Howard. Inspired by the delicacies at Pemberley, our menu offers "cold meat, cake, and a variety of all the finest fruits in season." After the refreshments, we will join in a pleasant two hours of dancing led by Dancing Mistress Karen Millyard and accompanied by fiddler Stephen Fuller. Cool beverages will be served at 1 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased by visiting www.JaneAustenDancing.ca

Fort York National Historic Site

250 Fort York Boulevard
416-392-6907
fortyork@toronto.ca
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Please note: Due to the construction of our new Visitor Centre, Fort York can only be accessed from Garrison Rd. via the west bound lane of Fleet St., between Fort York Blvd. and Strachan Ave. Get the most up-to-date information on site access during construction.

Old Toronto Beer Tours
May dates include May 25, June dates include June 1, 8, 15 & 22
Come join us on the Old Toronto Beer Tour, a refreshing romp through the history of Toronto experienced against the backdrop of our rich brewing heritage both past and present. This all-day guided tour includes brewery visits and 'tutored tastings' beginning at 11 a.m.at Steam Whistle, and continuing on to Six Pints, Mill Street and Amsterdam breweries. Of particular historical interest are walking tours of Fort York (the birthplace of the city and the Toronto brewing industry), Corktown and the Distillery District. Cost is $120 per person and includes, a charcuterie lunch, transportation, all museum and tasting fees and the services of an expert guide. The tour ends at the Yonge/Eglinton Subway at 6:15 p.m. For those who want to extend the day there is an optional 'Beer-makers Dinner' at the Granite Brewery, for an additional $50. For more information about tour dates and times, please visit www.beerloverstour.com or call Oliver Dawson at 416-662-6312.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.
Fort York will open its doors to the public for this annual celebration of history and architecture. Enjoy special tours of some of Toronto's oldest architecture (and home to Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings) or stroll the grounds of this National Historic Site. Admission is FREE.

Fort York National Historic Site - Open House
Tuesday May 28, 6:30 to 9 p.m. (presentation at 7 p.m.)
In the Blue Barracks (Please note the Bathurst Entrance will be open) Fort York is owned and operated by the City of Toronto and has a long history of hosting significant events inside the Fort walls and on its Garrison Common green space. We are revitalizing this significant public space and we'd like to invite the public to an Open House to hear more about our exciting projects, like the construction of a new Visitor Centre and our many landscape rehabilitation projects. We would also like to update you, and to get your feedback, on our strategy for programs and events on-site in 2013 and beyond.

Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina) and his staff will be in attendance at this Open House. They are interested in hearing your input and feedback about the recent improvements and future plans for Fort York. If you are unable to attend the Open House, but would like to learn more please feel contact either David O'Hara at Fort York (dohara@toronto.ca), or Councillor Layton at 416-392-4009 or by e-mail: councillor_layton@toronto.ca.

A Fort York Historic District Walking Tour in association with Heritage Toronto: “WAR, INVASION & OCCUPATION!: Fort York and Toronto in the War of 1812
June 2 - 1 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Some of the most dramatic events in Toronto's (York) history occurred during the War of 1812 - especially during the subsequent American invasions of 1813. This special walking tour, in and around the Fort York Historic District, examines some of the major events of this tumultuous era and its impact on the development of our community. Free (including admission to Fort York following tour).

The Garrison at York Comes to Life!
The Fort York War of 1812 Festival Weekend
Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m – 9 p.m
Sunday June 16, 10 a.m – 5 p.m
Tour authentic War of 1812 encampments; discover period food, music and entertainment, shop Sutler's Row for historic and period-inspired merchandise, plus much more. Battle tactical demonstrations by some of the best re-enactment units in Canada featuring an evening battle re-enactment at dusk on historic Garrison Common on Saturday June 15. Check www.toronto.ca/1812/events for more details closer to the date! Visit toronto.ca/1812. FREE

Aboriginal Arts Festival at Fort York National Historic Site
Thursday, June 20 to Saturday, June 22, Times vary each day
Fort York's 1812 Bicentennial celebrations continue with the Aboriginal Festival at Fort York. This three-day festival opens Thursday evening, June 20, with the book launch of Mississauga Portraits by renowned historian Don Smith of the University of Calgary. Sunset on June 20 brings the world premiere of Kahá: wi Dance Theatre's 1812 Bicentennial commission Remember to Honour on the grounds of Fort York, directed by award winning choreographer Santee Smith. June 21 and 22 will feature repeat sunset performances of Remember to Honour plus performances of new commissions by the Centre for Indigenous Theatre, Métis Fiddler Quartet, Eddie Robinson's traditional music and dance ensemble Morningstar River, and special educational programs by the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation to mark the Strawberry Festival. All Aboriginal Festival events are FREE.

"Tour de Forts” – A Bike Tour led by Fort York
Saturday, June 22 - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Enjoy a bike tour of the places where Toronto’s French Forts once stood. Meet outside Lambton House, 4066 Old Dundas St. at 11 a.m. Go to www.lambtonhouse.org for information and directions. Lambton House opens at 10 a.m. and will give free admission to anyone who wishes to arrive early. We will ride to Teiagon, the site of the 17th-century Seneca Village. Following the Humber Bicycle Trails, we will stop and explore the locations of Toronto's first two forts. Continuing along the Martin Goodman Trail we will go to the site of Fort Rouille, the last French Fort. The tour will end at Fort York, where participants are welcome to enjoy the final day of the Indigenous Arts Festival. The ride is moderate in difficulty. The tour and admission to the Fort are free.

Gibson House

5172 Yonge Street just north of the North York Centre Subway Stop
Get directions around the construction
Limited free parking and paid parking in the area.
416-395-7432
gibsonhouse@toronto.ca

NEW! Community Quilt Group
Continues Thursday May 23, June 6 & 20, 6 to 8 p.m. (meeting every other Thursday)
Relax, meet with friends and improve your sewing at Gibson House Museum. We are organizing a free, social quilt group which will meet every other Thursday at the museum. We invite members of all ages from North York's diverse communities to join us for an informal evening of learning and sharing as we work on a group quilt project for the museum. No previous experience required
Explore both historic and contemporary quilting techniques in a comfortable, social setting and share experiences and life stories while enjoying treats in the historic kitchen. Small projects to take home will also be offered for a modest material fee.
We welcome all levels of ESL learners. We encourage you to join us, even if you have never before picked up a needle and thread. Drop-ins are welcome. Free! Please Call Gibson House Museum at (416) 395-7432 for more information.

Not a novice? Get more involved in your own community - sewing and ESL mentors needed. Call Gibson House prior to May 9 for more information.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 12 to 4 p.m.
Gibson House participates in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. For this year's theme, "Creators, Makers and Innovators." drop by Gibson House to collaborate on our local Yarn Bomb Bonanza. This new creative project aims to help visitors find Gibson House during the ongoing construction. You can also sign-up for future Purl Posse gatherings at Gibson House. Admission is FREE.

PA Adventure Day!
Friday, June 7, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
A fun-filled way to spend your PA day! A special day at the museum spent cooking in the historic kitchen, learning an old-fashioned way to 'text", playing games and meeting new friends. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. Hours: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. Cost: $30.00+HST. Lunch provided. Extended Care available 8:00-9:00 a.m. and 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10.00 plus tax for morning or afternoon. $15.00 plus tax for both. Please call Gibson House Museum at 416 395-7432 to register.

Historic Zion Schoolhouse

1091 Finch Avenue East (East of Leslie)
Street parking in the area
416-395-7432
zionschool@toronto.ca

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 12 to 4 p.m.
Walk right into 1910 when you visit Zion Schoolhouse, which is participating in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. This is a great opportunity to explore this rare, one-room schoolhouse and find out what it was like to go to school when the area was primarily a farming community. Admission is FREE.

Mackenzie House

82 Bond Street
416-392-6915
machouse@toronto.ca
Join Mackenzie House on Facebook

Road to Rebellion - An Exhibit
This new exhibit examines the personalities on both sides of the conflict: Sir Francis Bond Head's government, determined to preserve the status quo; William Lyon Mackenzie and the Reformers, equally determined to force change. Over twenty years after the War of 1812 had ended, what defined a Canadian patriot? Was it unswerving loyalty to England — or striving for a more independent Canada? Included with admission.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Last admission: 4:30 p.m.
Mackenzie House participates in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. Admission is FREE.

Journalists and Editors in 19th Century Toronto -
A Guided Walk In association with Heritage Toronto
Saturday, June 15, 10 to 11:30 am
Explore the history of the men and women who took part in the lively journalism scene in Toronto from 1826 – 1892: their triumphs, feuds and friendships. William Lyon Mackenzie played a central role, inspiring both enemies and imitators. The walk begins at 160 Frederick Street, just north of Front Street (meet at Heritage Toronto plaque), finishing at Mackenzie House. FREE.

Montgomery's Inn

4709 Dundas Street West at Islington Avenue
Free parking.
416-394-8113
montinn@toronto.ca

Victoria Day Tea and Tour
Monday, May 20, 1 to 4 p.m.
Celebrate Victoria Day with an afternoon tea fit for a Queen. Price includes a complimentary guided tour of the Museum. All ages are welcome. First come, first served. $10 plus tax.

Montgomery's Inn Farmers Market
Returns Wednesday, May 22
Every Wednesday through October 30, 2 to 6 pm.
Buy direct form local farmers and food artisans. Organic fruit and vegetables, cheese, bread and prepared foods as well as ethically raised meat, honey and more!

The Sonnet Show
Friday, May 24, 7 to 9:30 p.m.
In partnership with the Humber River Shakespeare Company
The Inn provides the set for the fourth annual Sonnet Show, theatre based on Shakespeare's Sonnets. Call 416-209-2026 for tickets. $30 per person.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 12 to 4 p.m.
Montgomery's Inn participates in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. Hourly trolley tours of the Islington Village Murals courtesy of the Islington Village BIA. Admission is FREE.

Solfeggio Music Series at Montgomery's Inn
Saturday June 1, 2 - 4 p.m.
Join us for classical music in the Community Room in partnership with Neapolitan Connection. This month features pianist Anastasia Rizikov. Tours of the museum and refreshments are included in the ticket price. Adults $22 plus HST, children under 12 $12.50 plus HST. Tickets available at http://www.neapolitanconnection.com/.

Solfeggio Music Series at Montgomery's Inn
Saturday June 29, 2 - 4 p.m.
Join us for classical music in the Community Room in partnership with Neapolitan Connection. This month features soprano Felicia Mittica. Tours of the museum and refreshments are included in the ticket price. Adults $22 plus HST, children under 12 $12.50 plus HST. Tickets available at http://www.neapolitanconnection.com/.

Scarborough Museum

1007 Brimley Road, just north of Lawrence in Thomson Memorial Park
416-338-8807
shm@toronto.ca

MULTIPLICITY: Scarborough Identity An Art Exhibition
In the Kennedy Gallery at Scarborough Museum
Until May 26, 2013
Closing Ceremony Saturday May 25, 4 to 6 p.m.
Featuring works by Zarish Asif, Daniele Dennis, Dorica Manuel, Tara Mazurk, Nick Noh and Victor Wong
Curated by Tiffany Schofield
How can we situate the diverse lives of Scarborough residents today within its past and redefine the Scarborough identity? With over 1200 international students attending UTSC alone, the community is bursting with potential for cultural and artistic innovation. This diasporic environment provides opportunities for young artists from a wide range of backgrounds to develop and exert their voices, resulting in a unique critical perspective of themselves and the community which surrounds them. Dedicated to the exploration and discussion of connections between personal, cultural and community identity in Scarborough, this exhibition is presented in partnership with Gallery 1265, the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus student gallery. The participating artists will provide workshops to local Scarborough youth through the Canadian Museums and Youth Diversity Experience Project that is lead by Scarborough Museum. Funding for this program is provided by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Saturdays and Sundays in May & June, 12 to 5 p.m.
Everyone has a story! What's yours? The Community Memories Kiosk is waiting to record your fondest memories, your favorite hang-out, and what you love about Scarborough! Enjoy fun family activities every weekend in May! Admission is pay what you can.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 10 to 5 p.m.
Visit the Cornell House and McCowan Log House. Check out what's baking and go on an exciting scavenger hunt. Prizes for all! Admission is FREE.

Super Fun P.A. Day Camp
Friday June 7 – 9 to 4 p.m.
Course Code: 2205862
Scarborough Museum is the boredom buster for P.A. days! Bake over the open hearth, make crafts, play games, and explore Thomson Memorial Park. Lunch Included. Ages 5-12. Pre-register online at www.toronto.ca/torontofun or call 416-338-4FUN. $ 33 per child. Extended care 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for an additional $5.20.

Canada Rocks!
Thursday June 27 – 6:30 to 9 p.m.
You're invited to Canada Rocks at Scarborough Museum in celebration of Canadian Multiculturalism Day! Free for everyone. Enjoy live music and entertainment, sweets from around the world, Bollywood dancing and more!

Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens

285 Spadina Road
Paid parking at Casa Loma
416-392-6910
spadina@toronto.ca
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Spring Weekend Tours:

NEW! Toronto's Downton Abbey: Spadina Museum
Due to popular demand we recommend visitors reserve their spots!
Spaces are limited.
Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. and
Sunday afternoons at 2:30 p.m.
Please note: Due to alternate programming, the Downton Abbey Tours are not available on these dates: May 26 (Doors Open) and June 23 (Gatsby Garden Party)
Experience the drama and opulence of the 1920s in a tour of Spadina Museum, Toronto's Downton Abbey. In partnership with Vision TV, the Canadian home of Downton Abbey, Spadina invites you to immerse yourself in the world of the hit TV show. From the simple quarters of the servants to a lavish dining room, you'll find it all in this beautifully restored mansion. Try your hand at setting a formal silver service. Step into Mrs. Patmore's dream kitchen. Linger in a drawing room elegant enough to impress the Dowager Countess. Regular admission applies. To reserve your spot(s) please call 416-392-6910, Tuesday to Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m. (or you may leave a voicemail message at any time. Messages are responded to the next day).

Meet the Austins: A Toronto Family Between the Wars
Saturday and Sunday and Victoria Day Monday
at 12:15 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 4 p.m.
See Spadina, and the history of Toronto, through the eyes of the Austin family, who made it their home. Business people, artists, socialites and philanthropists, the Austins were a prominent family whose struggles and triumphs were closely tied to those of Toronto as they entered the 20th century. Regular admission applies.

It's a Kid's Life
Saturdays at 2:30 p.m.
Fun and games aren't just kid stuff in this fascinating, hands-on tour. Experience the sumptuous world of the Austin children, and all the rules that went with it, and the working class lives of the chauffeur's son and daughter. Live the life of a 1920s and 30s child through music, dance, games, toys and more.

Doors Open Toronto
Saturday and Sunday, May 25 & 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Spadina Museum participates in this city-wide celebration of Toronto's architectural heritage. Admission is FREE.

Soundscapes in the Garden
Saturday, June 1 at 2 p.m.
Participate in a meditative sound walk through the beautiful grounds of Spadina House, recall the magic of nature through a listening ear and experience a healing oasis in the City. Using vocal sound and listening exercises as well as beautiful overtone singing, Hathorah Improvisational Sound Collective leads a walk to discover the sounds of nature, and to open our own restorative vocal nature. Participants may choose to sound with us or to receive and bathe in the sounds created. $8 per person.

Music in the Orchard - A Concert Series
Sundays June 2, 9 and 16, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Spadina’s popular outdoor musical performances return. Bring a blanket. Bring a picnic. Bring the whole family. Pay what you wish.
June 2 – Kye Marshall
Kye Marshall is a duo (cello and guitar) and their repertoire ranges from jazz to free music.
June 9 - VentElation
This popular eight piece group has a repertoire that ranges from the end of the era of Mozart to the present.
June 16 – Taffanel Wind Ensemble
Taffanel Wind Ensemble, a trio consisting of flute, clarinet and bassoon, will be performing pieces that range from classical to modern.

Gatsby Garden Party
Sunday, June 23, Noon to 4 p.m.
Party like it's 1927! Come in 1920s garb (check out the Spadina Museum facebook page facebook.com/spadinamuseum for ideas), participate in our costume contest, purchase period appropriate refreshments, learn to Charleston and enjoy live jazz music. Participate in crafts, games and making strawberry ice cream. Solve a 1920s-era-style mystery in our beautifully restored mansion. Admission is $5 per person 13 years and older. (12 years and under Free).