Things to do this weekend in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa: Nov. 1 to Nov. 3

Get ready for a weekend filled with excitement in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa! Experience the final thrills of the haunted forest trail, enjoy live concerts, capture unforgettable moments at unique photo events and get a head start on your holiday shopping at festive markets. Check out what’s happening from Nov. 1 to Nov. 3:

November 1

Pickering: 

A Day Fun: Fall Craft!

Kids aged 4-7 can celebrate fall by creating a seasonal craft with provided supplies. Designed for children with accompanying adults, this program offers a hands-on, creative experience for young participants.

Where: 1 the Esplanade S.—Central Library
When: 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Cost: Free

Tim Dillon: American Royalty

Comedian and podcaster Tim Dillon brings his unique brand of cultural satire and commentary to Pickering. Known for The Tim Dillon Show and his Netflix and Comedy Central specials, Dillon’s tour promises a night of sharp humour and thought-provoking comedy.

Where:  888 Durham Live Ave.
When: 8 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $54.25

Alex Monaghan Youth Mental Health Chat – (Nov. 1, 15, 22 & 29, 2024)

Join this community event focused on youth mental health support, featuring expert speakers, breakout sessions, and interactive discussions. Open to youth ages 11 to 30 and those interested in learning effective mental health support techniques.

Where: 1867 Valley Farm Rd. —Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (O’Brien Rooms A & B)
When: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Free

Ajax: 

Celebration of Art – (Nov. 1 to Nov. 3, 2024)

Explore a vibrant display of local art at Ajax Creative Arts’ Celebration of Art show and sale.

Where: 22 Sherwood Rd. W. (The Village Community Centre)
When:

• Nov. 1— 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Nov. 2— 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Nov. 3— 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free

Family Makerspace Activities 

Bring the family together for an engaging afternoon of creativity and exploration with themed crafts and activities at Makerspace! This session’s theme is Cast a Spell—perfect for sparking young imaginations.

Where: 95 Magill Dr.
When: 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Whitby: 

Andrea Jeremiah ft. Karthik Devaraj & Band

Get ready for a unique live music experience as Andrea Jeremiah performs with Karthik Devaraj & Band.

Where: 300 Water St.—Canada Event Centre
When: 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Cost: From $37.61

Swing Dance at St. Thomas Anglican Church

Step into a lively evening of music and dance at St. Thomas Anglican Church’s Swing Dance event. The event features live tunes from “Swing Easy Big Band” and refreshments.

Where: 101 Winchester Rd. E., Brooklin, ON
When: 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 per person

Oshawa: 

The Washboard Union 

Catch JUNO-winning band The Washboard Union live on their “Grab the Wheel and Go” tour, celebrating their new album Westerly. Known for hit songs like “Shot of Glory,” “Country Thunder” and “I Run On Country,” this is a night of country music you’ll remember.

Where: 44 Bond St. E.
When: 7 p.m.
Cost: $65 – $75

Of The Unknown & Lear Haven 

The Biltmore Theatre presents an evening of live music featuring Of The Unknown and Lear Haven, with special guests Plz Respond and Proof of Dog.

Where: 39 King St. E—Biltmore Theatre
When: 8 p.m.
Cost: $18 General Admission (standing)

Canadian Mental Health Association Durham – Sapphire Gala

For six and a half decades, the CMHA Durham has been a steadfast advocate for mental health, dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing mental illness.

The evening will feature a gourmet three-course meal, complimentary wine and a silent auction. Insightful guest speakers and engaging entertainment will also be featured, all designed to create a memorable experience.

Where: 1011 Bloor St. E.
When: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: $165

November 2

Pickering: 

Forever Seger brings the energy and power of Seger’s hits live on stage, from rock anthems like “Old Time Rock n Roll,” “Turn the Page,” and “Night Moves” to unforgettable ballads, in a show fans call the top Bob Seger tribute worldwide.

Where: 888 Durham Live Ave.
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $55.50

Ajax: 

Living with Audaci-T.E.A.: Embracing Boldness in Everyday Life

Step out of your comfort zone and into a life of audacity with this transformative workshop led by Aisha Saintiche. Through engaging exercises and discussions, this event offers tools to live boldly and unapologetically.

Where: 78 Church St. (St. Francis Community Arts and Cultural Centre)
When: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Cost: General admission $125

Weekly 5K Community Run 

Join a free, fun, and friendly 5K event at Pickering Village. Open to all—whether you want to walk, jog, run, volunteer or cheer on participants.

Where: Duffins Trail (starting near the parking lot), Elizabeth St. & Old Kingston Rd.
When: 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
Cost: Free

Whitby: 

Whitby Psychic Medium Fair – (Nov. 2 – Nov. 3, 2024)

Explore the spiritual realm with tea readings, tarot, mediumship, reiki and crystals at this magical fair.

Where: 117 Byron St. S. (Royal Canadian Legion Branch 112)
When:

• Nov. 2, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (SHIVERS Whitby event: 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.)
• Nov. 3, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost: General Admission Free; SHIVERS Whitby $49.26

Ben&Ben 

This 9-piece band from the Philippines are set to bring their Autumn Tour to Whitby for a night of pop and pop-folk hits filled with infectious energy.

Where: 300 Water St. — Canada Event Centre
When:  7 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified.

Nickelodeon & Nachos Family Photography Event

Join Studio9 for a family-friendly evening of Nickelodeon-themed photography, props and nachos, perfect for capturing memorable moments with loved ones.

Where: 1380 Hopkins St. (Unit 9) —Studio9
When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Abilities Centre Holiday Market 

The annual Holiday Market at the Abilities Centre offers a winter wonderland experience with local vendors, family activities and festive spirit. All proceeds benefit programs supporting individuals with disabilities in skill development, confidence building and fostering community connections.

Where: 1 Jim Flaherty St.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost:

• Online: $8 per individual or $25 per family of 5
• At the door: $10 per individual or $30 per family of 5

Oshawa: 

Fight, Acquire, Dominate! Infinity Tournament

Join Brew Wizards for an action-packed Infinity Tournament featuring rounds of Acquisition, Supremacy and Fire Fight. Note: Outside food or drinks are not permitted.

Where: 74 Celina St.—Brew Wizards Board Game Cafe
When: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $15 + tax

2024 Carpet Cup Series

It’s back! Join Xtreme RC for the 2024 Carpet Cup, a best 4 of 5 race series featuring various classes, including 2wd Buggy, 4wd Buggy, 2wd SCT, 2wd Stadium, and Mini B/T (minimum of 5 entries required for some classes).

Where: 7 Simcoe St. S.,
When: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (doors open), races start at 9:30 a.m.
Cost:

• 1st class: $25
• 2nd class: $15
• 3rd class: $10
• Kids: $10

Pre-registration is required, and only 50 racers can participate due to limited pit space.

Haunted Forest Trail

Something dark lurks in the woods’ shadows at the Haunted Forest Trail. Imagine a chilling experience by heading deep into the forest with nothing but a flashlight. As you navigate the trails, expect to encounter lurking monsters and electronic scares designed to heighten your fear.

Where: 690 Taunton Rd. W.
When:  7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: $14.99 to $19.99 + applicable taxes

FanCon 2024

FanCon 2024 is a fan’s dream come true! Enjoy cosplay, craft stations and exciting games. Meet local artists, capture memories with your favourite characters and grab some cool souvenirs.

Where: 65 Bagot St. —McLaughlin Branch
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free

Featured Activities:

• Fandom Trivia
• Show & Tell
• Virtual Reality Experiences
• Junior Cosplay Contest (Ages 5-9)
• Anime Scavenger Hunt
• Arcade Alley
• Comic Feature: Displaced
• Artist Alley
• Fandom DIY

November 3

Pickering: 

Christmas Mini Sessions at Linen & Love Studios

Date & Time: Available slots: 1:05 p.m., 1:25 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:05 p.m., 2:25 p.m.
Location: 1105E Kingston Rd. (Unit 202)
Cost:$275 + HST. Non-refundable retainer: $100 + HST
Session Details:

• 15-minute session
• 10 edited high-resolution digital images
• Up to 5 people (contact for extended family pricing)
• Studio rental included

Dynacare and Diabetes Canada—Free testing

Dynacare and Diabetes Canada host a mobile diabetes testing clinic to increase awareness and offer free A1C tests for at-risk individuals. Those with risk factors like being over 40, having high blood pressure, or having specific ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to attend.

Where: 1920 Notion Rd.—APC Ministries
When:  10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Ajax: 

Tundra Music Guitar Show and Swap Meet

Explore a range of guitars and music gear and swap items at Tundra Music’s first Guitar Show and Swap Meet in five years. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or showcase your collection, this event promises a lively atmosphere for music enthusiasts.

Where: 75 Centennial Rd.
When:  10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Unspecified

Scientists in School: Shoot, Score, Science and More

Jump, shoot, roll and glide—explore the science in sports through engaging hands-on activities. Suitable for kids ages 4-12, this free event offers a chance to investigate balance, physics and engineering in sports by creating sculptures, designing hockey pucks and building a mini-golf course.

Where: 1955 Audley Rd.
When: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Cost: Free

Whitby: 

KAFTAN LAGOS’ NEXT STOP: Fashion, Food and Music 

Prepare for a fabulous day of fashion, delicious food and music at the KAFTAN LAGOS’ NEXT STOP event!

Where: 589 Water St. — Heydenshore Pavilion
When: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: Free admission

Oshawa: 

Charm Bar Workshop

Join Zalina from A Cherished Jewel for an afternoon of creativity at the Charm Bar Workshop. Design your own custom charm jewelry, choosing from a bracelet, necklace or anklet with a variety of charms.

Where: 270 Simcoe St. N., —Parkwood National Historic Site

When: 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.