Weekend fun includes St. Patrick’s Day and March break events

By Michael Gibbons and News staff

Although this weekend marks the end of March break, there are two things to look forward to: First, St. Patrick’s Day is on Sunday. And second, spring officially arrives in less than a week — at 5:58 p.m. on March 20.

Below is a Top 5 list of events to check out this weekend in the city. Most of them cater to both Irish-at-heart-enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy what’s left of March break.


Events

Achilles St. Patrick’s Day Run
Bring your merriment and Irish spirit with you Sunday as you take part in a charity run in support of Achilles Canada — an organization that helps people with disabilities to get the support they need from running. Now in its 20th year, the run features a five-kilometre race, as well as a just-added 10-kilometre race and a one-kilometre run for kids. The runs, which start at 10:15 a.m., kick off and end outside Steam Whistle Brewing near the Rogers Centre. After the run, everyone will gather for some Irish chili and a refreshing pilsner for the adults.

Toronto Comicon
Toronto Comicon takes over the Metro Toronto Convention Centre this weekend. This three-day event will feature unique sci-fi exhibits, celebrity appearances, and cosplay contests.Some of the celebrities attending include Hellboy’s Ron Perlman, The Lord of the Rings’ John-Rhys Davies, and Steve Urkel himself, Jaleel White. Tickets for adults cost $20, while children’s tickets cost $10.

Caribbean Street Food Festival
The Islands are calling you out to the Riverside neighbourhood this weekend for the Caribbean Street Food Festival. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, you’ll be able to indulge in mouth-watering Caribbean Street Food at the Ralph Thornton Community Centre. Organizers say there will be plenty of games to play, including dominoes, and snakes and ladders. There will even be a limerick contest. The event is free to attend.

Guinness SPD
Toronto’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day party takes place this Saturday in the Port Lands. Guinness SPD will feature a free pancake breakfast, live bands with traditional Irish fiddlers and dancers, as well as outdoor patios with interactive games. General admission tickets cost $29. This event is for people aged 19 or older.

Celtic Circle
Enjoy a magical evening of Irish folklore and music at the historic Campbell House Museum on Queen Street near University Avenue. Listen to the fiddler’s tunes and to stories about legends, poets, warriors, and faeries — while cozying up by the fireplace. Organizers say some of the stories may not be suitable for children under 12. There will be tea, hot cider and trifle on-hand. Register in advance to secure your spot at Sunday’s event.

TTC service

Partial Line 1 closure
Subways won’t be running on Line 1 between St. George and King stations on Saturday and Sunday so that crews can install the new Automatic Train Control signalling system. Shuttle buses will be running and Wheel-Trans service will be available. For those who require an elevator, riders should exit at Queen Station.

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day and so is the TTC. Revelers can enjoy free service on the 501 Queen or 504 King streetcars from 4 p.m. Sunday to 2:30 a.m. Monday. So leave the car at home and get home safely. Please remember to drink responsibly.

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