10 things to do in Toronto this weekend

Firecrackers explode as dragon and lion dancers perform in front of a grocery store in celebration of Chinese New Year at Manila's Chinatown district of Binondo, Philippines, Friday, Jan. 31, 2014. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

It's time to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and Black History Month kicks off this weekend. But there's lots of other activities for everyone from fun-lovers to foodies in Toronto this weekend. Here's a roundup.

1. History of literature and news

Learn about Toronto's rich history of literature and newspapers in Black communities in Ontario. Visitors can take home a souvenir copy of 'The Provincial Freeman' in a recreated 1850s print shop.

 

2. Winterlicious kicks off

The annual "culinary celebration" gets underway at more than 200 restaurants across the city, as they offer 'Prix Fixe' meals at lunch and dinner. Click here to find out where you can make a reservation.

3. Toronto Tea Festival

Tea lovers are invited to gather at the Toronto Reference Library's Appel Salon on Saturday and Sunday, for an event that promises "all things tea". Tickets cost $15 for a single day pass, or $25 for all-weekend access.

4. Chinese New Year

Ring in the Year of the Horse with traditional Chinese performances and an appearance by the Toronto Zoo's mascot panda at the Chinatown Centre and Dragon City Mall on Spadina Ave. Entry to the events that get underway at 1 p.m. Saturday, and 12 p.m. Sunday, is free.

5. TMC Choral Conductors' Symposium Free Concert

The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir's 4th annual Choral Conductors’ Symposium wraps up with a free afternoon concert Saturday at 3 p.m. Doors open at 2:15 p.m.

6. Cat Adopt-a-thon

Toronto Cat Rescue will be at Wag on the Danforth Saturday, looking for people to adopt kittens and cats. Adoption fees range from $175 for a kitten younger than 6 months, and $100 or older cats. The fees, which are payable by cash only, include six weeks of pet insurance.

7. Coldest Day of the Year Bike Ride

Enjoy the scenic streets of Toronto in the winter with a bike tour from Queen’s Park to Dufferin Grove Park. Top-off the day with a sweet cup of hot chocolate and a campfire near the skating rink. Skate rentals available at Dufferin Grove Park's Zamboni Cafe. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m. and BIXI bike rentals will be available from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

8. Toronto Reptile Expo

Come out and play with live reptiles and amphibians, participate in educational demonstrations and browse through more than 140 vendors at the Toronto Reptile Expo. The expo runs from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

9. Valentine Card Making Workshop  

Give your loved ones a creative Valentine’s Day gift with this fun family card making workshop. Suitable for children age 6 and up. Refreshments will be provided, pre-registration is required. The event runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Here's an interactive map of the events going on this weekend. Click on the points to see more details about each of the events.

View 10 things to do in Toronto this weekend: Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 in a larger map