It’s late spring 2025, and one news headline reads, “Hudson’s Bay officially closes after 355 years in business.” (With today’s borders, Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) was a Canadian-American company.) What began as a fur trading company and developed into a high-end department store met its end in June 2025.  

HBC’s beginning and end is a controversial one that has colonialism, mistreatment and wide expansion baked into it. 

Beginnings 

Indigenous communities had an existing relationship with the animals around them. According to The Canadian Encyclopedia, Indigenous communities used the animals to provide themselves with “food, clothing and shelter.” For years they practiced fur trapping. This was a process of building traps for animals, like beavers, and using the animals’ fur to make goods such as clothes. They had a sustainable fur trade as they didn’t hunt excessively, and they used every part of the animal.  

In places like Newfoundland, European fishermen were building relationships with the Indigenous people while their fish dried out. Indigenous people would trade fur and meat to receive items like metal and cloth from the Europeans.  

Fur was important in Europe in the 1600s. Well-dressed men wore hats made of beaver felt. This trend caused Europe to run low on beavers. European men began to look to the Americas (Turtle Island) for a new supply of the animal. As fur traders and explorers, the French brothers-in-law, Médard Chouart des Groseilliers and Pierre-Esprit Radisson, were convinced by the stories that some Indigenous people told them about a frozen sea. When they went back to France to gain support to find that area, they were jailed. After their release, they went to England and received support from Prince Rupert and his cousin King Charles II. The royals gave them one ship each to explore the area in 1668. Des Groseilliers made it to James Bay (Radisson’s ship got damaged and he had to return to England). He traded with the Cree and returned to England with an abundance of fur.  

King Charles II saw the success of this trip and signed a royal charter that established “The Governor and Company of Adventurers of England, trading into Hudson’s Bay” (Hudson’s Bay Company) in May 1670. (Hudson’s Bay is named after Henry Hudson; its Cree name, Winipekw, means muddy water.) This royal charter meant one big thing: Indigenous land was now property of a foreign entity with no consultation.  

The company took parts of modern-day Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and small parts of the U.S. King Charles II disregarded Indigenous people by outlining in the charter that he wouldn’t take land that other Europeans (British or Christian) have claimed. He went further by naming it Rupert’s Land after his cousin; Prince Rupert became the first governor of the company.  

Trading 

Posts were set up for the English and Scottish to trade with Indigenous peoples. The Indigenous traders would bring the beaver fur their community had trapped “during the fall and winter when beaver pelts were of the highest quality.” They exchanged it for the Englishmen’s “metal tools, guns, textiles and foodstuffs.” As the trade continued, the British introduced the currency Made Beaver. This helped to standardize trade for all posts. 

This trading would not have worked without the Indigenous community. This was evidenced by the dwindled profits that traders saw after smallpox and tuberculosis had been introduced to Indigenous groups. The impact was devastating. The traders sought to vaccinate Indigenous people so that they wouldn’t die out—not out of love for them but to make sure their trade wouldn’t die. (Re​​ad more about point blankets and their possible connection to smallpox.)​     ​ 

The Métis are sometimes thought of as children of the fur trade. In order to trade with some Indigenous groups, Europeans had to follow their kinship practices (like marriage). Métis people became trappers and hunters. (Read more about how this played out for some people.​​​​​​​​     ​​ 

There were two other fur trading companies outside of HBC: North West Company (NWC) and the American Fur Company. Métis people benefitted from the competition between HBC as they could sell to whichever company paid the most. This changed in 1821 when HBC merged with NWC. HBC now had a monopoly on the fur trade and could offer lower pay to trappers.  

HBC, refreshed 

Now that HBC and NWC were one, the company decided to restructure. They had meetings, managed who was employed and closed unprofitable posts (much like companies do now). In 1843, HBC decided it would use Vancouver Island as an agriculture settlement—again without Indigenous consultation.​​ The fur trade relied on Europeans needing fur in high demand, but this was changing as they became more interested in silk. 

Expansionists felt like HBC was trying to stop them from going West (to modern day British Columbia). In 1863, the company’s new shareholders were more interested in retail and expansion. This was around the time modern-day Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec confederated (1867). The British wanted to keep Rupert’s Land from going to the Americans, so they worked out a deal with John A. Macdonald. For Indigenous groups, history was repeating itself because it was like the HBC takeover that happened under King Charles II.   

Expansion  

HBC got into retail in 1894, even getting control of a property company between 1973-90. As more settlers came to Canada, the trading posts began diversifying. The trade HBC did with settlers was different to what they did with Indigenous people, and they had different accounts for both groups. By the early 1910s, they had three different departments: “lands sales, fur trade and retail.”  

HBC also got into oil and gas and the oil and gas company operated from 1926 to 1982. The company also began expanding to other areas of Canada. In 1965, HBC rebranded as The Bay. In 1970, Queen Elizabeth transferred the company from the U.K. to Canada.  

This time also saw HBC expanding into retail stores. The first of six opened in Calgary in 1913. They began acquiring more companies like Zellers (which closed in 2013 and revived in 2023) in the 1970s; this continued well into the 1990s. In 1991, The Bay stopped selling fur as people opposed the fur trade, but it reversed this decision in 1997. 

As the early 2000s saw a boom in online shopping, The Bay adapted and created a website. The 2000s also saw The Bay’s ownership change to American hands. In 2006, it was bought by New York businessman Jerry Zucker. From there, it was bought by a private equity company in 2008. It began to transform into the mid- to high-end department store it was known as in recent years. It acquired Saks, Inc (owner of Saks Fifth Avenue and the Saks OFF 5TH) in 2013 and operated them in Canada. It also bought, then sold, a European company. 

By 2025, The Bay filed for creditor protection. The company said it was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and “uncertainty between Canada and the United States.” An Ontario court allowed the company to start liquidating its assets. Canadian Tire successfully won a bid to gain ownership of The Bay’s intellectual property. On June 3rd, 2025, an Ontario judge approved the purchase. The Bay closed down all of its stores and the Saks stores it operated. 

After being around for 355 years and serving as an integral part of the development of Canada, Hudson’s Bay Company is gone. It’s easy for HBC’s colonial history to get lost in the modern age, but it is important to address it. Indigenous people weren’t able to benefit from the company being on their land the way colonial powers did. The company may be remembered for being a luxury store, but let’s not forget the harm it brought to early and present day Indigenous communities.  

** ‘Indian’ is an outdated and offensive term for Indigenous people. In the past, some Indigenous people referred to themselves as ‘Indian,’ but this has changed significantly. Where possible, ‘Indian’ will be substituted with ‘Indigenous.’ ** 

Indigenous people have populated these lands since time immemorial–Indigenous people aren’t “from” Canada. Each group has a long and fascinating history. (Canada sits on traditional territories, treaties and unceded Indigenous land.) Part of their rich history is art; one of the earliest dated pieces of Indigenous art is around 5000 years old.  

The Professional Native Indian Artists Inc. (PNIAI) was created out of a need for Indigenous representation in art. It challenged the idea that Indigenous art was meant for museums, as if it had no connection to modern-day (1960s and 70s) art. Together, the artists of PNIAI used their different styles, talents and voices to show that their art deserved as much attention as other groups. It was popularly referred to as the Indigenous (Indian) Group of Seven (referencing the Group of Seven).  

PNIAI began in 1973 with artists Daphne Odjig, Jackson Beardy, Eddy Cobiness, Joseph Sanchez, Alex Janvier, Carl Ray and Norval Morrisseau. They decided to be a group that stood for “self-determination and professional advancement.” Although they separated in 1975, they helped to start an acceptance of and appreciation for Indigenous art. As of July 2025, Joseph Sánchez is the only living member from the group. 

As an appreciation for the great work the Professional Native Indian Artists Inc. did, here are some highlights of their lives. 

Daphne Odjig 

Photo by Misterlobat on commons.wikimedia.org  

Daphne Odjig (Sept. 11, 1919 – Oct. 1, 2016) was a Potawatomi-Odawa-English artist. In 1964, she “experienced a life and career-altering awakening.” After changing her last name to Fisher to get work, she was dancing at a powwow in Wiikwemkoong and “suddenly understood herself as an Indigenous woman.” Her newfound purpose was to display the Indigenous stories she knew through her art. 

In 1971, while living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, she opened Odjig Indian Prints of Canada Ltd. She sold her own art along with art from smaller, aspiring artists. For her efforts, she has received honorary degrees, the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia, among many other awards. 

Odjig’s art explored everyday life, Indigenous spirituality and traditions among many other things. It went through cycles; at first, her work had influence from impressionists and Pablo Picasso. This changed to a graphic style when she focused more on Indigenous art.  

You can see her artworks for yourself on the Odjig website and Gallery Gevik’s exhibition and page on limited prints. 

Jackson Beardy  

Jackson Beardy (July 24, 1944 – Dec. 8, 1984) was an Oji-Cree artist. Like many Indigenous people, Beardy was sent to a residential school in his youth. Although it left a lasting impression on him, he was able to learn to paint and draw while there. He graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1966. 

Beardy went on to become an advisor, consultant and professor. In 1984, he began painting a mural for the Indigenous Family Centre (Family Indian Centre) but passed away before he could finish. Artists from R.B. Russell Vocational High School came in to finish it. The piece, “Peace and Harmony,” expresses how connected the spiritual and physical world were for Beardy.  

Beardy’s art explored the oral traditions he was taught. As he realized himself, his art moved from just portraying Indigenous legends to adding a layer of integrity and dignity. His art “… had a distinctive graphic style characterised by flat areas of warm colours and curving ribbons of paint.”  

See some of his art at Gervik Gallery’s site and his “Calling the Night” on The Canadian Encyclopedia. 

Eddy Cobiness 

Eddy “Doc” Cobiness (July 17, 1933 – Jan. 1, 1996) was an Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) self-taught artist. He was born in Minnesota, U.S. then moved to Buffalo Point First Nation in Manitoba. While in Minnesota, he was in the U.S. Army, when he found an interest in watercolouring.  

As an activist, Cobiness would sign his art with his treaty number, 47, as a form of protest against the Canadian government. By doing this, he showed that he wouldn’t be forced into trying to fit in with Canadian society. He worked to be a good example for young Indigenous artists to show them that they could also be successful.   

Cobiness wanted to challenge non-Indigenous people’s belief of Indigenous people. He believed that they “read books written by white men and often there are errors in them.”  

His early art was inspired by his community. He also took inspiration from artists like Benjamin Chee Chee and Picasso. His later work was more abstract.  

See some of his art in this short video. 

Joseph Sánchez 

Photo by Uyvsdi on commons.wikimedia.org, edited by Thean Sargeant 

Joseph Sánchez (Feb. 24, 1948) is a Pueblo-Spanish-German surrealist artist. He was born in Trinidad, Colorado and raised on the White Mountain Apache Reservation (Arizona). He was encouraged by his fifth-grade teacher to practice art. After high school, he was going to join the priesthood but decided against it. He was in the U.S. Marine Corps and trained soldiers to fight in the Vietnam War. He left and became Absent Without Leave (AWOL). 

While in the Marine Corps, Sánchez began working on his art style. His later work was inspired by “[the] Renaissance, Surrealism, Dada, and Contemporary Art of the 1960s.” Find some of his art on his website and at Gallery Gevik’s site.  

He has gathered many titles over the years: community and political activist, museum director and curator and essayist. He has since moved back to the U.S. and continues to paint while also helping and being an influence to younger artists. 

Alex Janvier  

Photo by D. Gordon E. Robertson on commons.wikimedia.org 

Alex Janvier (Feb. 28, 1935 – July 10, 2024) was a Denesuline and Saulteaux artist. He was also put in a residential school and had access to art materials. He graduated from the Provincial Institute of Technology and Art in Calgary (now the Alberta College of Art and Design) in 1960. He taught at the University of Alberta but left to be an artist. 

Janvier was a “muralist, painter, activist, community leader and educator.” In 1967, he organized for some other Indigenous artists, like Morrisseau, to go to the Indians of Canada Pavilion at Expo 67. Like Cobiness, he began to sign his paintings with his treaty number as a form of protest. He had also received many awards and honorary degrees. 

Janvier’s art primarily had “calligraphic lines and bright colours.” It was a mix of his Indigenous knowledge and his Western education. He was dubbed the first Indigenous (Native) modernist.  

Be sure to check out his amazing mural for the Canadian Museum of History. The Canadian Encyclopedia lists what each colour represents. 

Carl Ray  

Carl Ray (Jan. 10, 1943 -Sept. 26, 1978) was a Cree artist. As a child, he was also sent to a residential school and found a love for art there. He was a self-taught artist. By his 20s, he had an interest in visually preserving Indigenous legends. 

Ray was an artist, illustrator, editor and art teacher. He worked with his mentor, Norval Morrisseau, to create a mural for Expo 67, but it was demolished later. He also had solo exhibitions. He would go on to teach at Manitou Arts Foundation on Schreiber Island.  

Ray was encouraged to “reject the traditional taboo against painting Indigenous legends” by Morrisseau. He adapted Morrisseau’s style of x-ray painting where he would depict the inner organs and the life force of his art subjects.  

You can view Waddington’s site and his “Thunderbird” on The Canadian Encyclopedia. 

Norval Morrisseau 

Norval Morrisseau (March 14, 1932 – Dec. 4, 2007) was an Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) known as “Copper Thunderbird” (Miskwaabik Animiiki in Anishinaabemowin). He was also sent to a residential school as a child. His maternal grandparents raised him. His grandfather taught him about Ojibwe history while his grandmother taught him Catholicism.  

Morrisseau was considered “by many to be the Mishomis, or grandfather, of contemporary Indigenous art in Canada.” Morrisseau is popular for creating the Woodland School of Art; it was a style of painting, not an actual school. It mixes people, animals and plants with “spiritual imagery and symbolism.” Some of the members of PNIAI, Odjig, Beardy, Cobiness and Ray, also used this paint style. 

Morrisseau’s art style has influenced younger artists. He has received awards and appointments for his work.  

View his work on these different sites: Waddington’s, The Canadian Encyclopedia has his painting “Windigo”, and the Art Canada Institute biography of him along with his video biography. 

The Professional Native Indian Artists Inc. saw a problem of Indigenous art being excluded from art spaces and created change. Younger generations can now see Indigenous art in galleries (National Gallery of Canada, Art Gallery of Ontario and more) and not just in museums. 

​We’re all familiar with ​​physical ​​money. It is ​​defined​​ as “​​the coins or bank notes that you use to buy things.” You’ve put it in your wallet, you’ve spent it, you’ve lost it, but where does it come from? The coins and notes come from two different places. ​​​The coins are ​​​​minted​​​​ by ​​​The Royal Canadian Mint​​​ and the ​​​bank notes are printed by the ​​​Bank of Canada​​​. ​​  

We’re all familiar with physical money. It is defined as “the coins or bank notes that you use to buy things.” You’ve put it in your wallet, you’ve spent it, you’ve lost it, but where does it come from? The coins and notes come from two different places. The coins are minted by The Royal Canadian Mint and the bank notes are printed by the Bank of Canada.  

​​​Before physical money, people traded ​​​items ​​​with one another for the things they needed. Some Indigenous groups in Canada traded wampum, fur and some metals (like copper). As French and English ​​colonizers ​​came to Canada​​, the trade system began to change. Here’s a ​​timeline​​ of events to see how different coins and notes were introduced. ​​ ​ 

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​​​Physical money gained a lot of trust throughout the 1800s and 1900s. The Royal Canadian Mint (then Royal Mint) opened in Ottawa in 1908. By this time, all of the provinces and territories we know now (except ​​Newfoundland and Labrador​​ and ​​Nunavut​​) had already signed on to ​​become​​ the Canada we know today. (Important note: Indigenous people weren’t part of these ​​discussions​​.) The first coin was made: a 50-cent coin with King Edward VII’s (Queen Elizabeth II’s great-grandfather) picture on the back. King Edward VII’s son George V became king in 1910, and all Canadian coins were made with his picture on them. ​ 

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​​​The ​​Bank of Canada opened in 1935 as Canada’s new ​​central bank​​—this was Bank of Montreal’s (BMO) ​​role​​ from 1817 up until then. The print companies ​​British American Bank Note Company​​ and ​​Canadian Bank Note Company Ltd.​​ ​​printed bank notes (and still do).​ 

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​​​The first set of paper notes that were printed in 1935 looked old for that time. The Bank of Canada Museum ​​describes​​ it as “​​very much in a nineteenth century mode.” Even though it was a country all on its own, Canada was still close to the ​​British​​, and the money’s design reflected that. There were ​​10 bills​​: $1, $2, $5, $10​​, $20, ​​$25​​ (to celebrate ​​King George V’s 25th year as king​​),​​ $50, $100, $500 and $1000. The lower bills all had an image of a member of the Royal Family. Only the $500 and the $1000 bills had Canadian politicians, with Sir John A. Macdonald (Canada’s first prime minister) on the $500 and Sir Wilfrid Laurier (Canada’s first francophone prime minister) on the $1000 bill. The notes were available in full English and full French. ​ 

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​​​In 1937, King George V died, and his son ​​Albert ​​(royal name George VI) became king. Canadian money was reprinted with King George VI’s image. King George VI’s face was on all of the notes except the $100 and the $1000, which had Macdonald and Laurier. The $25 was not printed again. Each bill ​​had a ​​colour​​ and featured ​​​both English and French.​  

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​​​When Elizabeth II became queen in the 1950s, the notes that were printed showed more of Canada’s ​​identity​​. The 1960s-1970s notes had more details to stop ​​counterfeiters​​ from making fake ones. ​​​(​​​Read more about their designs ​​here​​.​​​)​​​ Birds were added to the design in ​​1986​​. ​​​(​​​Read more about that design ​​here​​.​​​)​​​ The $1 note was replaced with a $1 coin (a loonie) to save ​​money​​. The $2 was removed in ​​1996​​ and also replaced with a coin (a toonie). In 2001-2006, the notes were designed by ​​Canadians​​ with the help of computers. The 2011 notes saw a major change: they were made using plastic (polypropylene​​). ​​  

​The 2011 notes have a lot of security ​​features​​. This makes it near impossible for people to make ​​​counterfeit copies. The notes are more Canadian than ever as they feature a lot of Canada’s ​​accomplishments​​. They are also accessible for those who are blind or are ​​partially sighted​​. The notes have these ​​features​​: ​​​raised dots (not braille), to help those who are blind or partially sighted identify what they are holding large numbers that have a high contrast, and they are all different colours. ​​​(​​​Read about all the interesting features ​​here​​.​​​)​​ 

The notes are ​​dynamic​​. For Canada’s 150 celebration, the $10 note was changed to highlight important figures in Canada’s past. ​​​(​​​Read more about that ​​here​​.​​​)​​​ One of the changes Canadians saw was ​​Viola Desmond​​ on the $10 bill. ​​​It marked the first time a person of colour was featured on a Canadian dollar bill. ​​​The Bank of Canada announced the change in ​​2016​​. They ​​showed​​ what it looked like on International Women’s Day in March 2018, and it was released in November. The $20 bill is reserved for the reigning monarch. After Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022​​​,​ the Canadian government ​​announced​​ that they would change her picture to ​​King Charles III’s. ​​​(​​​You can read more about the new $20 bill ​​here​​.​​​)​​ 

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Now that you have the history and recent information, here are some more facts about Canadian coins and bank notes:​​  

• ​​​The ​​Indigenous Advisory Circle​​ gives the Bank of Canada “advice and recommendations on how Indigenous Peoples in Canada might be represented on future bank notes…” ​​​  

• ​​​The Bank of Canada Museum has some old design ideas for bank notes ​​here 

• ​​​The name loonie ($1 coin) comes from the ​​loon​​ that is on it​​  

• ​​​The toonie gets its name from being ​​two loonies​ 

• ​​​​In 2012, the Government ​​​stopped ​​​​producing​​​​ and discontinued the use of pennies (the one-cent coin​​​) 

• ​​​The ​​Royal Canadian Mint makes​​ collector coins you can buy ​​online​ 

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​​​It’s interesting to know how money goes from ​​​being ​​​printed and minted into banks, stores and our wallets. You can look at money in a new way now that you’ve learned its history and know what companies are responsible for getting it to you​​.​ 

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The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest fair. It’s held annually for 18 days from mid-August and ends on Labour Day (the first Monday in September) in downtown Toronto at the Exhibition Place. The CNE attracts more than 1.5 million visitors annually and features an array of entertainment.  

Since its founding in 1879 as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, the CNE started off with a focus on agriculture, industry, technology and livestock competitions before expanding to include more entertainment through carnival attractions, midway rides, food vendors, concerts and sporting events.  

Listed below are some of the CNE’s most popular attractions to look out for when visiting the fairgrounds and what to expect from them. 

Food Scene  

The CNE’s food scene has turned into a must-try attraction at the fair over the years. It started off with selling carnival classics like cotton candy, corn dogs and funnels to also including unique culinary options in their yearly roster of creations, which can be found either in the Food Building or in various sections on the fairgrounds.  

Out-of-this-world culinary creations have graced the CNE over the years, including deep-fried butter, mustard and ketchup ice-cream, rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches and deep-fried pickle Oreos. To celebrate the foods that are part of the CNE’s culinary scene or have been part of it in the past, the CNE introduced the CNE Food Hall of Fame in 2024. The inaugural inductees are Tiny Tom Donuts, the ice-cream waffle sandwich, pickle pizza, Primo Spaghetti and deep-fried butter.  

Midway Rides and Games  

The Midway rides and games are the most exciting part about the CNE for families with young children. These activities are provided by Conklin Shows (now part of the North American Midway Entertainment) and are available throughout the CNE’s 18-day run. Staple rides to look forward to include the Super Wheel (the tallest Ferris wheel in North America), Swing Tower, the Polar Express, Zipper, Alpine Bobs, the Berry-Go-Round, the Sky Ride, the Double Decker Carousel, Pharaoh’s Fury and Ring of Fire. Guests have the choice of either purchasing tickets for individual rides or an all-day ride pass. For games, have some cash in handy for a little fun competition and the chance to win a prize.  

SuperDogs 

This over four-decade-old spectacle features various dogs of multiple breeds, mixes, sizes and rescues. Over 100 trainers  wow the audience in more than one way at the CNE’s Enercare Centre. Each year under a different theme, dogs will showcase their talents, larger-than-life personalities and simply dazzle the audience with an overload of cuteness. 

Fun Fact: The SuperDog show has reached a global audience in recent years and brings in millions of views through virtual shows and shorts. 

Air Show  

The Canadian International Air Show kicks off the final few days of the CNE. The purpose of the air show is to honour aviation’s past and inspire its future by showcasing the best of vintage and modern air travel. While the show can be viewed from certain areas within the Exhibition Place, there’s an exclusive air zone where spectators can get a better look at the planes in action and listen to live narration throughout the event at an additional price. 

Shopping  

The CNE offers a unique shopping experience with indoor and outdoor spaces to explore and purchase items at. The International Pavilions in the Enercare Centre is a hotspot for shoppers. Each of the products sold has a booth aesthetic that represents a specific country or continent overall. The Enercare Centre also has a shoppers market filled with gifts, toys, pet items, jewellery and beauty items. Located outside is where cell phone accessories, sunglasses, leather coats, bed sheets and more will be sold.  

While the CNE still maintains its roots in agriculture, technology and livestock, it has since evolved by incorporating other sectors into the annual festivities, attracting people from all walks of life to enjoy the largest fair in Canada.  

Unique Cultural Dishes That Have Graced The CNE 

One thing that stands out about the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is their food scene, which is considered vibrant among foodies and those willing to get out of their comfort zone and try new things. The CNE has garnered a reputation for introducing new and unexpected spins on classic fair food along with dishes from various cultures.   

Whether it’s sold in their Food Building or in other food areas on the grounds, such as their Food Truck Frenzy area, listed below are some of the cultural dishes that have graced the CNE food scene in recent years.   

Giant Samosa   

This is a giant twist on the deep-fried South and West Indian pastry. While it tastes similar to the average samosa, which is filled with potatoes, peas and spices, there is a very noticeable size difference. It’s bigger than a typical snack-size samosa. In fact, this samosa is 12 inches long and debuted in the CNE’s 2024 line-up at the Bombay Spice Street food vendor.   

Wasabi Ice-Cream   

Normally, wasabi is paired with sushi. However, a classic cool summer treat and spices have been fused together to create wasabi ice-cream. This spicy cold dessert is served in a charcoal cone and has seaweed and orange sugar pearl garnishes.  

Fun Fact: This is the second time the CNE sold a unique ice-cream flavour after their ketchup ice-cream debuted during the 2022 season.   

Deep Fried Birria Taco Bombs  

Credits go to Deep Fried Co. for creating a mini version of this popular Mexican dish. These classic Birria tacos come in a bite-sized form. The dish is comprised of a small corn tortilla ball stuffed with beef and cheese, deep fried and served with a side of consommé for dipping for that classic Birria taco experience.   

Tzatziki Cheesecake  

A New-York style cheesecake plus tzatziki sauce equals a new unique CNE combination. Living up to the creativity of out-of-this world CNE fusions, The Greeker Bakeshop serves a slice of cheesecake made from scratch, topped with a tzatziki buttercream and pita chips.    

Sweet or Spicy Mochi Funnel Cake  

Funnel Cakes are a fair food staple. Typically, they’re sprinkled with icing sugar and other toppings like ice-cream and strawberries. Made exclusively for the CNE’s 2024 season, O-Mochi reimagined this classic fair dessert in the form of their signature mochi donut in a sweet or spicy flavour. Guests wouldn’t know which flavour they got until they took their first bite.   

Butter Chicken Corn Dog  

The corn dog is another fair food staple that has been turned into a cultural fusion. Butter chicken, a classic Indian dish made with Tandoori chicken soaked in a creamy and buttery tomato gravy/curry, is paired with a corn dog to create this fusion. It’s a chicken hot dog coated in a masala batter and drizzled with a butter chicken sauce.   

Ube Street Corn  

Street corn is a classic Mexican street dish consisting of grilled corn on the cob slathered in a spicy and creamy chili, garlic and Cotija cheese. Ube street corn is a Filipino spin on the dish. This street corn fusion is coated in ube, a purple yam, before being sprinkled with cheese, sesame seeds, chili flakes and spring onions.   

Churros S’mores  

Instead of using graham crackers to create this campfire classic, two mini churros are used as a substitute with melted chocolate and roasted marshmallows placed in between them. This Latin campfire fusion debuted during the 2023 season.   

Butter Chicken Sandwich  

Chicken sandwiches have been seeing a surge in popularity in recent years, with the most popular variation being a fried chicken sandwich topped with either a regular or spicy mayo. In 2023, Rick’s Good eats debuted their Butter Chicken Overload Sandwich. It’s a Tandoori fried chicken sandwich dunked in butter chicken sauce, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, tandoori aioli, cheddar cheese and butter chicken loaded fries and placed in between two butter chicken samosas serving as the buns.   

Poutine Pizza  

Poutine is a classic Canadian dish that consists of fries covered in gravy and topped with cheese curds. Pizza is an Italian dish that has made its way over to other parts of the world, becoming a popular fare. Wood Fire Pizza fused these foods together to create the Poutine Pizza, an authentic wood-fired pizza covered in gravy and topped with fries and cheese curds with a green onion garnish.   

As the CNE’s food scene continues to increase in popularity, those who are visiting the grounds for the first time can expect to see more creative dishes, with a touch of cultural fusions added to the mix.  

The Top Cultural Festivals in Toronto

The City of Toronto is filled with diversity and serves as a major destination for immigrants moving to Canada. With a diverse tapestry of over 250 ethnicities and 190 languages, the city hosts many events annually to celebrate its diverse population. The festivals listed below are just some of the most popular events, where people can celebrate their own culture and learn more about and celebrate others.  

The Pride Parade 

Pride is the first cultural event to kick off the summer festival season. Throughout the month of June, events are held across the city to celebrate Toronto’s 2SLGBTQI+ community. The month begins with an official –flag-raising ceremony at City Hall and ends with the Toronto Pride Parade on the last Sunday of the month in the Church-Wellesley Village (Toronto’s Gay Village). Spectators can expect to see ravishing floats and fearless costumes while the message of inclusion and progress is being spread.  

Fun Fact: The Toronto Pride Parade is Canada’s largest festival and the second largest Pride in the world.  

Toronto Caribbean Carnival 

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival (referred to as Caribana) is the celebration of Caribbean culture that commemorates the end of enslavement in Canada. The season officially kicks off in mid-June and ends on the Civic Holiday, with the Grande Parade held two days prior, which is the highlight of the carnival season. Masqueraders are seen in colourful and jewelled costumes while dancing along the Lakeshore to a blend of Caribbean genres like soca, calypso, dancehall and reggae, while steel pan bands hit the road in between them. The music, costumes and dancing aren’t the only exciting aspects. Vendors will be situated along the parade route selling Caribbean delicacies.  

Fun Fact: The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is the largest Caribbean carnival celebration outside of the Caribbean. The Grande Parade attracts millions of participants and spectators globally every year and contributes over half a billion dollars to Toronto’s economy.  

Taste of Lawrence 

The taste of Lawrence is Scarborough’s largest street festival, which takes place on the first weekend in July. With over 150 vendors to choose from, spectators can select from a diverse range of international food options that showcase how diverse Toronto is. The varied culinary choices are not all that’s appealing about this street festival. There’s also a wide range of entertainment, with the midway section being another popular attraction. It’s filled with rides, inflatables and games that are mainly catered towards young children, but they are popular among adults as well.  

Salsa in Toronto Festival  

Also taking place during the first weekend in July, Toronto’s Midtown turns into a place with Latin festivities for the annual Salsa in Toronto Festival. Salsa dancing is the highlight of the festival with salsa performances by professional dancers taking to the stage. Spectators can also join in on the fun by participating in dance lessons taught by experienced instructors. There are also other ways to partake in the festival through art exhibitions, film screenings, a parade and savouring Latin cuisine.  

Fun Fact: While Salsa in Toronto is the big highlight, it doesn’t begin or end there. The festivities start in late June at Blue Mountain Resort and make one final round in Tremblant, Quebec in late August.  

Toronto Waterfront Night Market 

Night markets, street markets which usually operate at night, are a cultural aspect in east and Southeast Asia. They are bursting with local street food and beverages, handmade goods and clothing, and they feature entertainment while people browse and shop. Night markets have made their way over to Canada with a few of them taking place in the GTA for a limited time. The Toronto Waterfront Night Market is one of them. It’s a three day festival that takes place on the Exhibition Grounds over by Hotel X and runs for three days in early August. While the first two days are for adults 19 and up, the final day is for all ages and includes the Illuminasian Floating Lantern & Music Festival in the line-up for entertainment.  

Fun fact: The Toronto Waterfront Night Market is the first Night Market to debut in Toronto.  

If you’re open to delving into an array of cultures, the five events mentioned above would be some of the best events to attend for the best cultural experience.  

Six fun hobbies to try

The Collins Dictionary defines a hobby as “an activity you enjoy doing in your spare time.” This can be an activity that requires your full focus or almost none at all. It’s not something that needs to be perfected, so it takes off any pressure. ​A hobby ​​     ​can be done on your own time.  

Junk Journaling  

Unlike regular journaling (which is also a fun hobby to pick up) that has some structure, junk journaling is ​a ​very low effort hobby. all it involves is using anything you can find around you. Pick a notebook, any notebook, and keep some tape or glue handy. To start, you can use items like receipts, paper wristbands (such as the ones from concerts), ticket stubs, etc. You can paste them in fully or ​add some cuts and ​tear​s​ ​to​​     ​ make a collage.  

You decide what goes on each page. A page can be dedicated to a restaurant you went to. Two pages (dubbed a “spread”) can have a theme. Another good thing is that every page can be a different idea. Some people print out pictures and create collages or themed pages. You can also add writing if you feel like it. You can use this as a way to challenge yourself to make pages that are catered to your aesthetic.  

Colouring   

There has been an increase in people’s interest in colouring. It’s seen as a low-effort activity that isn’t just for children. There are different kinds of ​colouring ​books to choose from like ​one catered towards ​adult​s​, colouring books with inspirational quotes or colour-by-number books. Just pick one and express yourself. Again, there are no rules unless you set them for yourself.  

Painting  

Many stores sell cheap but useful canvases, paints and paint brushes. You can paint whatever you like, whether it’s something you came up with or something you saw online​ or in person​. Hobbies like painting help you to express yourself artistically, and there’s no right or wrong way to do it.   

Watercolour colouring book  

If you’re interested in a mix of colouring and painting, a watercolour colouring book may be something that would interest you. Books like this have thicker paper so you can use paints on them​ without having to worry about them seeping through the page​. Like colouring and painting, you don’t have to follow any rules. Choose a book that interests you and start adding colour.  

Photography  

Phones have really good cameras now, and starting a photography hobby is as easy as opening your camera app. When you go out, make an effort to take pictures of things around you: pretty flowers, beautiful sunset, trees in bloom, nature in a park, nice architecture, and lastly, selfies! These are just a few ideas; have fun trying to come up with more.   

You can also develop your photography skills and snap better pictures by playing with angles and lighting. For example, if you’re taking a picture of a flower, you can hold your phone above it or try to take pictures from either side. You can see which one you prefer and take more pictures like that. If there’s a plant or attraction that you pass a lot, try taking a picture of it during the day and at night so you can experiment with lighting.   

It’s fun taking pictures in public, but remember, other people may not want to be in your in your photos. Even in a public space, it’s generally better to avoid taking pictures of others without their consent. If you see something that you want a picture of, but people are in the way, avoid getting their face in frame.   

Calligraphy  

Practicing a different ​style of ​handwriting can be a fun and simple hobby. It’s easy to start as you can just print worksheets from online sources. You can also buy a workbook and get started. After developing this skill, you can spice up cards by signing ​them ​in your new handwriting.  

Think about a hobby that interests you and give yourself something calming to do in your spare time.  

Sports as a unifying force in Canada 

By: Vincent Tran 

Published on: December 5th, 2024

A sports team and its athletes heading to a major competition or tournament is one of the few things that helps bring a whole country together. 

As issues such as politics, war, and differing beliefs tend to cause a separation and divide, sports can bring people of all walks of life together and unite under one team or flag.  

While sometimes we may have our differences in sports, mostly at the club level, we tend to put those feelings aside and get behind the nation when they’re about to compete against other countries in the world.  

Sports are a great outlet for many people and can make you temporarily forget about all the real-world issues out there. Things that cause us stress in our daily lives become secondary when everyone roots for their favourite teams or athletes.

For newcomers, sports can be a great way to feel more Canadian and welcomed in your new home. Whenever there’s a major sporting event going on, there’s a strong sense of unity amongst everyone as they cheer on their favourite teams and athletes together.  

On an international level, this unity is arguably the most prominent.  

Two of the world’s biggest international soccer tournaments occurred this year: the European Championships (EURO 2024) and Copa America. Canada finished fourth in their first-ever appearance at the latter tournament.  

The Paris Summer Olympic Games are also another major sporting event happening this year. We can look forward to seeing many Canadian athletes competing against some of the world’s best in their respective sports. 

Time and time again, we see people come out in droves to root for their country on the international level. Fans of all different nations flock to these events to support their athletes as watching them brings a sense of national pride.  

Major sporting events, both international and domestic, draw lots of attention and discussions from people all around the world. They are phenomenal at bringing millions of people together, physically or otherwise, creating a feeling of excitement among supporters.  

EURO 2024 in Germany saw record attendance numbers with over 2.6 million people going to matches in 10 host cities, while the 2024 Copa America had an average attendance of over 44,000 people each match and a total of more than 1.5 million people attending matches across 14 stadiums in the United States.  

The 2024 Paris Olympics also expect around 2.3 to 3.1 million fans to attend Olympic events during the period of the Olympic competition from July 26 to August 11. 

Although the 2020 Tokyo Olympics did not have any spectators due to COVID-19, Canadians still cheered on their athletes from home and showed their support in any way possible.  

Canadians also got to witness many of their athletes win Olympic gold medals, such as Andre de Grasse winning the men’s 200m final and the Canadian women’s soccer team winning the Olympic gold medal for the first time in Canadian history.

Fans at home also welcomed their Olympians back from Tokyo. The Canadian women’s soccer team even went on a “Celebration Tour” across the country, displaying their Olympic gold medals as they played matches against other nations in Canada.   

While international competitions tend to bring many people together from around the world, we can also see this unity at domestic level. Canada is blessed to have successful clubs and athletes across many sports that bring us together in support of our teams and fellow Canadians.   

In 2019, when the Toronto Raptors won their first-ever NBA championship, the team’s historic playoff run brought record numbers of people to the city of Toronto.  

Over 1 million people were present in Toronto for the Raptors’ championship parade through the city, while thousands gathered at “Jurassic Park”, located just outside of the Scotiabank Arena, throughout the playoff run. There were even public viewing zones in other cities in Ontario and across the nation where tens of thousands of Raptors fans got together to watch the Raptors make Canadian sports history.  

Canada is a hockey nation. Thousands of fans gather year after year to root for their favourite Canadian NHL teams throughout the regular season and playoffs.  

We recently saw the Edmonton Oilers make it to the Stanley Cup final and came close to making history after coming back from down 0-3 in the series to force Game 7, eventually losing 2-1 to the Florida Panthers.  

Had the Oilers pulled off the miraculous comeback, they would’ve been only the second team in NHL history to come from 0-3 down in the finals to win the Stanley Cup after the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1942. They also would’ve  been the first Canadian NHL team to win the Stanley Cup since the Montreal Canadiens in 1993.  Sports are a very powerful force around the world and in Canada. They can do so much for us. Sports brings people together and helps others feel welcomed as part of a nation.  

How Social Media and the Internet Can Help You Settle in Canada

By: Vincent Tran 

Published on: December 2nd, 2024

While social media, and the Internet at large, can sometimes be seen as a negative distraction, they can be useful tools for newcomers. 

Using the Internet 

Use the internet to learn more about your surroundings. A simple Google search can give you many answers to questions you may have, helping you discover more about your city or all of Canada.  

Features such as Google Maps or Google Earth can give you a sense of what is around you. You can explore different parks, stores, and routes through these applications. Map out your walking route for tomorrow or an area you want to explore next.  

You can even use the “Street View” option on Google Maps to see what each location looks like in real life. This option is useful if you’re visiting a certain place for the first time.  

If you plan on making a trip to a store, use “Street View” to see the store’s surroundings, buildings along with street names and intersections to familiarise yourself with the location before you visit. 

If you have mobile data or an Internet connection on your phone, you can use Google Maps to guide you while you’re making your way to a specific location. If you’ve set the address on your phone, the app can show you where you are on the map and the directions you need to reach your destination.   

Searching things on the Internet will also help you see reviews — that is, what the thoughts of others on different locations. Read about people’s experiences with different stores, restaurants, and many other businesses on Google Reviews.

Using social media 

Like searching on the internet, social media apps help you learn more about your city.   

Many creators on apps, such as TikTok or Instagram, share their experiences in different cities. If you want to find good restaurants in Toronto, you can find TikTok videos that people have made on restaurants they enjoyed in the city. The visual nature of these apps gives viewers a sense of visiting a location without physically being there.  

Content creators on social media also highlight unique or lesser-known areas in a city. These apps also highlight small or local businesses. If you’re unsure of what’s in your city and where to explore next, visit one of these social media platforms to discover locations that may pique your interest.  

Aside from finding places to visit, social media can be a great tool in finding out perspectives of other Canadian newcomers. On these platforms, you can search for advice on what you should know about living in Canada, watch videos or read posts from other newcomers to Canada.  

With how personal social media can be, it’s a place to learn from others about their experience of moving to Canada. You might find an online community you can relate to.   

Future Canadian Sporting Events You Don’t Want To Miss

By: Vincent Tran 

Published on: November 28th, 2024

Major sports events are great sources of entertainment. One thing they do is bring people together. Whenever these events are on, it seems like a major part of the world is locked into their action.  

Now is as good a time as ever to be a sports fan in Canada because, in the next few years, our nation will be hosting major sports events that you can attend in-person or watch at home with family and friends.  

2026 FIFA World Cup 

One of the biggest sports events to look forward to in the next couple of years is the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup.  

This World Cup will be hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico and for the first time in the history of the competition, will feature 48 teams from around the world who will each compete for the World Cup trophy.  

Canada has two host cities: Vancouver and Toronto. A total of 13 games will be played at the B.C. Place in Vancouver, British Columbia. and BMO Field in Toronto, Ontario.  

The Canadian men’s national team will make their third appearance at a FIFA World Cup tournament. It will also be the first time they play in consecutive men’s World Cups.  

Fans in Toronto can witness Canada’s opening group stage game at BMO Field on June 12, 2026, while the B.C. Place in Vancouver will host the remaining two group stage matches for the national team.  

NHL 4 Nations Face-Off 

The NHL 4 Nations Face-Off is an international ice hockey event that will take place from Feb. 12, 2025, to Feb. 20, 2025.  

The event will feature National Hockey League (NHL) players from Canada, the United States, Finland, and Sweden. It will replace the annual NHL All-Star Game in 2025 and serve as a tune-up event ahead of the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, where NHL players will return for the first time since the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.   

The Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec. and TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts are the host cities for this tournament. Four games will be held in Montreal and three games in Boston. 

Six Canadian players have already been selected for the Canadian team: Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, Brad Marchand, Cale Makar, and Brayden Point.  

Canadians will finally be able to see most of their top hockey stars represent the country on an international level for the first time in over a decade when the competition begins on Feb. 12, 2025 at Bell Centre in Montreal. Canada will be facing Sweden in the opening game of the tournament.   

Toronto WNBA team 

In 2026, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) will finally make its long awaited expansion into Canada with the opening of a new franchise in Toronto, Ontario.  

The still-to-be-named Toronto franchise is set to become the WNBA’s 14th franchise, after the San Francisco-based Golden State Valkyries begin their inaugural season in May 2025.  

The Toronto WNBA franchise will start playing in May 2026 at the Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, which can hold over 7,000 fans.  

Details about the Toronto WNBA team are unavailable at the moment. Stay tuned to this monumental event in Canadian women’s sports history as the franchise tips off their inaugural season in May 2026.  

Annual events  

Canada has many regular annual major sports events across its cities. These events involve a wide range of sports.

The National Bank Open is a WTA and ATP Masters 1000 tennis event held in Toronto and Montreal every year. The event is one of the biggest tennis events on the tennis calendar, with only the WTA and ATP Finals and Grand Slam tournaments worth more ranking points. It involves both men’s and women’s professional players on the ATP and WTA tours, respectively.  

Every year, the tournament alternates between Toronto and Montreal, hosting the men and women at their venues. This year, the WTA (women) will play in Toronto and the ATP (men) will play in Montreal. They will switch next year in 2025.  

If you’re a fan of motorsports and racing, there are two marquee motorsports events in Canada every year: the Canadian Grand Prix and the Honda Indy Toronto.  

The Canadian Grand Prix is a Formula One race event at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal. Every year, 20 Formula One racers from 10 different teams race for 70 laps on the 4.361 kilometre long race course.   

The Honda Indy Toronto is an annual Indycar race event in Toronto, and typically occurs every July. The drivers race for 85 laps along a 2.874 kilometre track around Exhibition Place and down Lakeshore Boulevard.   The Grey Cup is Canada’s equivalent to the NFL’s Super Bowl. It regularly draws in millions of Canadians every year. If you’re ever interested in the Canadian Football League (CFL), you should definitely check out some games during the regular season and tune in for the playoffs and Grey Cup final.  

Three Markets to Visit in Toronto 

By: Thean Sargeant

Published on: November 25th, 2024

Markets — where people buy and sell produce, livestock, and other goods — are great places to search for niche or unique items. Different markets cater to different people. Some cater to people who want to support local fashion designers, while others cater to those looking for fresh foods. In Toronto, markets are popular as Torontonians generally look to support local businesses. 

Kensington Market 

Kensington neighbourhood doubles as a market. The area has College St. to its north, Spadina to its east, Bathurst to its west, and Dundas St. West to its south. What began as a movement to find housing and community is now home to a culturally and ethnically diverse population. Located within the community are typical businesses like healthcare services, dental clinics, nail salons, etc. Many people frequent the area for its range of restaurants offering global cuisine (Latin American, Native American, Caribbean, German, etc.), cafes, art, and vintage stores.

Pedestrian Sundays – the last Sundays of May to October are called Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington. On those days, streets are closed, the sidewalks are full of vendors’ products, and visitors walk on the road to get to the stores. Be sure to look out for the car used as a garden during the summer months. 

The display became a recognized historical site in 2006 for its social and economic developments that mirror Canada’s multicultural mosaic. Here is a directory that can be useful in getting around the area.

STACKT market 

Opening in 2019, this market is made up entirely of120 shipping containers. Its website describes Stackt as “North America’s largest shipping container market.” Stackt (often stylized STACKT or stackt) is a market located in downtown Toronto near the Bathurst St. and Front St. W intersection. It was a placeholder for potential developments and turned into a 15-year agreement when given a10-year extension on its lease five years after opening.

The market is set on local and international businesses sharing their products and services with the community. It features artistic talent with murals painted on the sides of containers. Here’s the website for Stackt artists. 

There are plenty of options to choose from for food and drinks. They even have a brewery with drinks that are only available at Stackt. Retail options are available as well. If you’re unsure of where to go or if you want to go to an event there, check out this site. 

Stackt Market won Public Space of the Year from Designlines Magazine in January 2020. In 2021, it was awarded Fast Company’s 2021 Innovation by Design Awards in the Retail Innovations category. 

St. Lawrence Market 

The St. Lawrence Market is located at 92-95 Front St. East. The St. Lawrence Hall was constructed in 1850 as a meeting place and restored in 1967. Today, it operates as an event hall for special occasions and has retail businesses on the lower level.  

The market consists of three buildings: The South Market, the North Market, and St. Lawrence Hall.

The South Market has a lot to offer. The lower level has a variety of produce and non-food items for sale. The North Market is currently under development and is nearing its completion. The city put up a temporary market at 125 The Esplanade, just south of the South Market. Ontarian farmers use this temporary building to continue selling their produce. The Saturday farmers’ market is free to enter, and its hours are from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Market’s upper level is called Market Gallery and consists of a museum and exhibition space. The exhibits use film, photography, and other media to show how Toronto has changed and developed over the past 150 years. General admission is free, but some exhibits charge an entry fee. Check this site for details on current exhibitions and a brief history of the Market’s exhibition space.    

In 2011, National Geographic named St. Lawrence Market one of the top 10 food markets globally. St. Lawrence Hall became a historical site in 1967. For a guide on which stores to check out, visit here and plan accordingly. The market is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Malls in the GTA 

By: Thean Sargeant

Published on: November 21st, 2024

Malls, by definition, are large buildings or connected buildings that contain a variety of retail stores and restaurants. Many people consider them a third space – places where people can go outside of their home and work. Malls are where shopping and social interaction come together smoothly.

Here are some malls in Toronto that can be accessed by transit and have parking spaces for those who drive. 

Vaughan Mills(1 Bass Pro Mills Dr, Vaughan) 

Located just outside Toronto in Vaughan is the 1.2 million square feet mall. With over 200 stores, Vaughan Mills has lots to offer anyone who visits. From Toronto, you can take the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and connect to York Region Transit (YRT) by going to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre subway station and transferring to the 020 or 320 YRT bus. The mall itself is accessible and very easy to walk around, but not around holidays when it gets so packed. 

Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Drive, Toronto) 

Owned by Oxford Properties, Scarborough Town Centre is 1.6 million square feet and in east Toronto. The mall is commonly known by its initialism STC. From Line 2’s Kennedy Station, you can take any bus that drives to STC. The two-storey mall is bright and spacious, with many different stores. It’s a great place to walk around and buy food from the restaurants on the lower level if you’re hungry. 

Yorkdale Shopping Centre (3401 Dufferin Street, Toronto) 

Yorkdale Shopping Centre is another mall owned by Oxford Properties. Yorkdale, as it’s called, is a large (2.0 million square feet) mall in west Toronto. The TTC has a stop that connects to Yorkdale via an enclosed bridge – this is not an accessible route as there are two sets of stairs in this bridge. Walking outside of the station and towards the mall is the accessible route. The mall  has a lot of walking space and high ceilings, so you can feel how grand the building is. Yorkdale is home to many high-end luxury brands.

All Cadillac Fairview (CF) malls are owned and managed by Cadillac Fairview Corporation Limited. 

CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge Street, Toronto) 

Toronto’s biggest mall, Eaton Centre, is in its downtown core. The mall  has direct connections  to TTC’s Dundas  and Queen  stations . It’s 2.1 million square feet big with over 200 stores. The stores are placed throughout the three-storey building and can be accessed easily through escalators and elevators. While  the mall is beautiful all year long , it’s even better to go in December when a large, nicely decorated Christmas tree  is put up . 

CF Fairview Mall (1800 Sheppard Ave East, Toronto) 

Fairview, as it’s called, is an adequately large (860,000 square feet) mall in Toronto’s north end. Its clean interior and high ceilings make it a breeze to walk around. It is located within the vicinity of TTC’s Don Mills station. It’s similar to the malls mentioned in that it is accessible and has recognizable brands. 

CF Sherway Gardens(25 The West Mall, Etobicoke) 

Sherway Gardens opened in 1971. Its 850,000 square feet house over 200 stores. The 123 bus from Kipling station takes you straight from the station to the mall. The ceilings in this mall are low (on purpose). Many of its stores are on one level with mainly restaurants on a second level.

If you can, visit some of these malls in the GTA . Take a friend with you if you don’t like being out alone. Don’t feel any pressure to buy anything. Malls are great places to walk around or just to be outside of your home or work. 

A Beginner’s Guide to Halloween 

By: Meaghan Flokstra 

Published on: November 18th, 2024

During October in Canada, you might see some frightening sights around your neighbourhood: gravestones decorating people’s lawns, cobwebs strung across windows, and skeletons dangling from tree branches. Your local grocery store has pumpkins and candy on display, and more horror movies are playing at the theatre than usual. All of these are signs that Halloween is on its way. 

Though it’s not considered a public holiday, Halloween is one of the most beloved celebrations in Canada. Halloween is on October 31 of every year, but festivities take place throughout the whole month of October. In general, the purpose of Halloween is to have fun with all things spooky and scary. However, there’s also lots of exciting activities for those who prefer not to be frightened, including young children. 

If you’re eager to participate in Halloween, your local community will most likely have events and other festivities to explore. GTA residents can find a list of annual events to check out here. For those who aren’t sure what to expect from this frightening but fun holiday, a list of typical Halloween activities is provided below. 

Trick-or-Treating 

On the evening of Halloween, many children participate in an activity called trick-or-treating. Kids will dress up in costumes, knock on doors around their neighbourhood, and yell the phrase “trick or treat!” In response, residents then open their door and give out some sort of treat, such as candy or chips. Treats are typically only handed out to younger children, but teens and older adults are free to dress up as well and accompany them from house to house. 

If you want trick-or-treaters to come to your door, leaving out Halloween decorations and turning on any outdoor lights is a great way to signal that you have treats to give out. If you aren’t planning on handing out treats, you can show this by closing your blinds or curtains and turning off your lights for the evening. 

For your first Halloween in a new neighbourhood, knowing how many treats to buy can be a bit tricky. Consider how many kids live in your neighbourhood, and prepare enough treats for a few more kids than you expect. You can also reach out to a neighbour for advice about what previous years have been like. 

Costumes 

As mentioned earlier, costumes are customary for children going trick-or-treating. However, many teens and adults choose to dress up too! In October, there are lots of parties and festivities that encourage people to participate by wearing a costume.

While spookiness is the general theme of Halloween, costumes don’t always have to be scary. Many people choose costumes that are cute or funny. Some popular costume ideas are vampires, black cats, or fictional characters from TV or movies. However, you can feel free to be as creative as you like! 

Costumes don’t have to empty your wallet either. Buying a premade costume is quick and convenient, but making your own at home can be just as great. If you plan on being outdoors in your costume, check the weather forecast and, if necessary, put together a costume that will keep you warm and dry. 

Carving pumpkins 

Pumpkins are popular in autumn for both eating and decorating. A common Halloween activity is to carve designs into pumpkins. This is done by cutting off the top of a pumpkin, scooping out the insides, and carving an image into its side. A carved pumpkin is also called a jack-o’-lantern. 

Once you’ve carved a pumpkin, you can roast the seeds to make a tasty snack. The first step is to wash and dry the seeds. Next, toss them in a bowl with some oil, salt, and any spices you like. Lastly, spread them on a tray and pop them in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes. 

In October, you can find pumpkins at most grocery stores. However, going to a pumpkin patch and choosing a pumpkin from the field makes a fun day trip. Many pumpkin patches also have other exciting activities, such as wagon rides and corn mazes.

Permanent Residency vs Citizenship 

By: Kyle Quilatan 

Published on: November 14th, 2024

Permanent residents (PR) and citizens have similar rights and responsibilities in Canada. Both statuses allow individuals to study, work and live anywhere in Canada. Both provide certain social benefits. However, some considerable differences separate them. 

Keep reading to learn more about the differences between these statuses. 

Permanent residency 

In Canada, a PR enjoys most of the benefits that a citizen does, like receiving a social insurance number and healthcare coverage and the ability to live, work and/or study anywhere in Canada. PRs must also pay taxes by Canadian laws.   

PR status still has its limitations. A PR cannot vote in elections, run for office or hold distinct high-level security clearance jobs.   

A PR card is an individual’s proof of their valid PR status. The card is needed to re-enter Canada after travelling. Most PR cards have a five-year issuing or one year. After that, a renewal will take place every five years.  To lose PR status, a person might renounce it or become a Canadian citizen.    

Becoming a PR 

There are multiple immigration pathways that individuals can take to become a PR in Canada. One typical method is economic immigration, in which skilled workers are attracted to Canada to improve the country’s economy. Another pathway is through sponsorship, which involves a current Canadian PR or citizen helping to bring their family members into Canada.    

To maintain PR status, an individual must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the most recent five-year period. Compliance with this rule is usually determined when an individual applies for a PR card renewal, permanent resident travel document (PRTD) or Canadian citizenship. 

Citizenship 

Generally speaking, citizenship refers to the relationship between an individual and the country they live in. The country offers citizens protection in return for the citizens’ loyalty. This loyalty often takes the form of certain responsibilities that are to be fulfilled by citizens, such as taxation. 

In Canada, citizenship grants individuals the right to vote and run for office. As previously mentioned, a PR cannot do either one. Citizenship also grants individuals a Canadian passport, which does not require a renewal as often as a PR card. As a result, Canadian citizens can live anywhere in the world for as long as they like. Citizens do not have residency obligations like PRs do, so they do not need to be physically present in Canada for a certain amount of time to maintain their status.   

Under the Government of Canada, an individual is considered a Canadian citizen under three general circumstances.

First, they were born in Canada. Second, they were born outside of Canada, and one of their parents is already a Canadian citizen. Third, they undergo the naturalisation process, which first involves becoming a PR.   

Becoming a citizen 

To become a Canadian citizen, an individual must first be a PR. Then, as a PR, they must live in Canada for at least three out of five years(1095 days or more). They must then pass the citizenship test, prove they are proficient in English and/or French and pay any necessary taxes.  

The final step is to attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship. Most applicants are invited to a virtual oath ceremony, though some receive an invite for in-person. Only individuals aged 14 and over are obligated to attend. Children below 14 years of age are not required to be present but are still welcome to attend. The entire procedure can take several months to complete, while the application processing alone takes up to eight months.   

While there are several similarities between being a PR and a citizen in Canada, these statuses are distinct. Each has benefits and responsibilities, so carefully consider which status best suits your current situation and future goals.   

Title: Canadian Winter Survival 101

By: Thean Sargeant

Published on: November 11th, 2024

Cold weather dominates most of the year here in Canada, with the most frigid months being December, January, and February. It’s crucial to cover up as some days can get chillier than -20 C – that’s 20 degrees below the freezing point for water. You also have to take a mental note of the wind chill which tends to make these days feel colder than they are. Make a conscious effort to stay warm during these months to avoid exposing bare skin to the harsh cold. Frostbite is an injury that can occur when the skin and the tissues under it are exposed to freezing conditions for a prolonged period. In its early stages, frostbitten skin gets better when warmed up. If not warmed up, the injury can become severe. Do your best to avoid this outcome.

Buy winter clothes out of Season

Try to buy items outside of the winter season. Stores often sell winter gear at a discounted price outside of winter months. Out-of-season is the best time to get coats, boots, scarves, and the like, as you can find the quality you need at a much better price. Buy clothes that will keep you warm throughout the day, especially if you are outside often. You might set your skin up for frostbite by neglecting to stay warm. The dermatologists at the American Academy of Dermatology Association have a great, informative list of what types of clothes to buy for the winter and what materials to get them in.

Invest in footwear

Winter months come with ice storms and freezing rain. Such weather can layer streets and sidewalks with ice, making them slippery. Purchase boots with a well-built grip to keep you grounded. In this case, you want to prioritize warmth and grip over style. Ice cleats, grips, crampons, or whatever they’re listed as will help you walk better in icy conditions. Some boots come with them attached but they can also be bought separately and added to your shoe. Even with grips, remember to walk carefully to avoid slips and falls.

Keeping warm inside

Sometimes it feels like the cold follows you inside no matter how high the heating is. One item to help warm you up is a comforter. A comforter is essentially a heavy blanket with a soft outer lining, plush inner filling and stitching that holds the filling in place. With proper care, a good comforter can last many winters. If you prefer something more customizable, a duvet would work for you. Duvets are like comforters. However, they don’t have a dedicated outer covering. As a result, this allows you to buy different sheet sets, including a matching duvet cover. Choose whichever one works for you so long as you keep warm.

Weather apps

Aside from clothes, weather apps are one of the most important things to have before braving the Canadian winter. Never leave home without checking these apps. Weather apps make knowing how to dress much easier as you’ll be aware of how many layers to wear. An app that breaks down weather according to hourly temperatures is best as you can tell whether you need a scarf for later in the day or if you can switch out your boots for sneakers. While you can check the forecast on the TV before you head out, you’ll get timely updates on a mobile device. Some handy apps include The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, The Weather Network, and WeatherCAN.

A Brief Look at The CN Tower 

By Thean Sargeant 

Published on: September 13th, 2024

Standing at 553.3 metres (1815 feet) high in the Toronto skyline is the iconic Canadian National Tower or, as it’s most commonly known, the CN Tower. Located in downtown Toronto, the freestanding tower has become a tourist hotspot. The CN Tower stood as the tallest freestanding structure in the world for 34 years (1975-2009) until the Burj Khalifa was built in Dubai.  

History  

The Canadian National Railway owned the tower for 19 years after its public opening on June 26, 1976 (this is where the Canadian National part of its name comes from). It took around $52 million to construct the tower. Construction began in February of 1973 with over 1,500 workers. The need for this tower and its antenna emerged when tall buildings were blocking broadcast and microwave signals — signals used for TVs, radios, and telephones. 

The tower was completed by February of the following year, in 1974. The antenna attachment was finished in April 1975. Over 17 Canadian television and FM radio stations use the tower’s signals. The government company Canada Lands Company has been using the tower’s signals since1995.   

Inside the Tower  

In 2011, Edgewalk was opened. Secured by a harness, people can pay to walk on the edge of the CN Tower’s central pod 116 storeys (356 metres) in the air. The ledge is five feet wide. Thrill seekers are sure to get a kick out of walking along the highest external walk on a building, according to Guinness World Records.  

The full-rotation restaurant, 360 The Restaurant, and the world’s highest wine cellar are also located in the CN Tower. At 351 metres (1,151 ft) high, guests enjoy a full rotation every 72 minutes and get a great (possibly the best) view of Toronto. Customers of the restaurant also get access to the Main Observation Level.  

Just under the restaurant, at 346 metres (1,136 feet) high, is the Main Observation Level where visitors are surrounded by a glass wall that allows them to see outside. Fun facts from the websites: there is a capsule on this level meant to be opened in 2076 (the CN Tower’s 100th birthday) and the glass in the glass wall is made from material that allows for great pictures at any time.

The Lower Observation Level consists of a glass floor. Visitors can look down and see the city from 342 metres (1,122 feet) in the air. The elevators also have glass floors (installed in 2008). On the ground floor of the building is a gift shop where visitors (whether they are going up the tower or not) can buy souvenirs.  

Be sure to check out this interactive website for more facts about the CN Tower. 

Outside the Tower  

June of 2007 saw another immense change for the CN Tower: the change from incandescent lights to LED lights. The Chief Operating Officer at the time, Jack Robinson, said that it was necessary for the tower to have an “energy-efficient, sustainable lighting installation.” Partnered with Color Kinetics, a company that lights buildings and structures, the tower was given lights from its elevator shaft right up to its antenna. The lights are designed to not disturb any nearby places like offices and homes. They are programmable and are set to different colours whenever there is a celebration. Check out the lighting schedule here.

What began as a way for Torontonians to get more signals to their TV screens and radios has blossomed into an astounding landmark in Toronto. Even if you aren’t able to go up to the top, just standing outside and looking up (and even taking pictures of it) is enough to grasp the greatness that this Tower holds. 

Art Galleries and Museums to Explore in Ontario

By Meaghan Flokstra 

Published on: September 9th, 2024

 Art galleries and museums make for fantastic day trips. Whether you want to go alone or with friends and family, there are many places to visit to learn about culture, art, science, history, and more. Ontario has a wide range of art galleries and museums, so there is plenty to explore and discover. 

Art Gallery of Hamilton 

The Art Gallery of Hamilton was founded in 1914 and is the oldest art gallery in southwestern Ontario. There are over 10,000 works in its collection to check out. Visitors have the option to get involved in various tours and workshops. Kids can participate in art camps during March Break and summer vacation, as well as other family-friendly events all year long. 

Art Gallery of Ontario 

Located in Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario has a diverse collection that includes over 90,000 works of art. The gallery features artwork by some of the most famous artists in Canadian history, such as the Group of Seven. You can find a list of their current exhibitions here. 

The Art Gallery of Ontario is also a partner of Canoo (formerly known as the Cultural Access Pass program), which gives eligible newcomers to Canada access to various cultural experiences for free. Ontarians who are younger than 25 can visit the Art Gallery of Ontario for free as well. 

Bay of Spirits Gallery 

The Bay of Spirits Gallery in Toronto specialises in Indigenous art. They showcase an array of stunning artworks made by Indigenous artists, including paintings, sculptures, and masks. Since it’s a retail gallery, the Bay of Spirits Gallery is a great place to visit if you want to expand your personal art collection. Some prominent artists featured at Bay of Spirits are Norval Morisseau, Daphne Odjig, and Loreene Henry. 

Canadian Museum of Nature 

The Canadian Museum of Nature is in Ottawa, Ontario, the capital city of Canada. Visit this natural history museum to learn about nature and wildlife from across Canada. It runs various exhibits and programs and features everything from live creatures to fossils. Beyond visiting the museum, you can also check out their Nature Channel online. 

Hockey Hall of Fame 

Considering that hockey is Canada’s most popular sport, it’s no surprise that we have a Hockey Hall of Fame. This Toronto museum is dedicated to the history of hockey and features a wide range of memorabilia. Most notably, the Hockey Hall of Fame is home to the Stanley Cup, the championship trophy of the National Hockey League. 

National Gallery of Canada 

Located in Ottawa, the National Gallery of Canada is one of the largest galleries in North America. It is celebrated for both its incredible architecture and its impressive collections of Canadian and Indigenous artworks. 

One of the most notable pieces here is the famous sculpture Maman (1999) by Louise Bourgeois. This grand sculpture of a spider is over nine metres tall, and many visitors love to take pictures from underneath it. 

Royal Ontario Museum 

Located in the heart of Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest and most-visited museum. It displays art and artifacts from all over the world, including dinosaur fossils and meteorites. They also feature some Hands-on Galleries to give visitors an interactive experience. 

If you’re travelling to the Royal Ontario Museum by subway, you can hop off at Museum Station, which was named after it.