Things to do this weekend in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa: Nov. 8 to Nov. 10

As temperatures drop and scarves come out, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa are brimming with seasonal events perfect for cozy outings and lively gatherings. Whether it’s holiday markets full of unique finds, a moving Remembrance Day tribute, a family-friendly indoor skating event or a candlelight concert, there’s plenty of fun to be had!

Here’s a glimpse of some of the happenings from Nov. 8 to Nov. 10:

November 8

Pickering:

Nikos Vertis Live in Toronto

Greek music star Nikos Vertis returns to Toronto, bringing his most beloved hits and selections from his latest album in an unforgettable live performance.

Where: 888 Durham Live Ave. (Pickering Casino Resort – The Arena)
Time: 9 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $88

Whitby: 

Remembering Veterans Tea

Join the 55+ Recreation Centre for an afternoon of tea, treats and Remembrance Day readings to honour veterans’ service and sacrifice.

Where: 801 Brock St. S. ( 55+ Recreation Centre)
Time: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free (55+ membership and pre-registration required)

Oshawa: 

Candlelight Concert: The Music of Coldplay

The Biltmore Theatre hosts a unique candlelit performance of Coldplay’s most beloved songs including “Clocks,” “Fix You,” and “Yellow.” This hour-long event offers an atmospheric setting for experiencing live music in a new light.

Where: 39 King St. E.
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $62

November 9

Pickering:

The 6th Annual Durham Region Holiday Pop-Up Marketplace (Pickering Edition)

The event brings together local vendors and holiday shopping under one roof, offering two days of festive fun and entertainment.

Where: 470 Kingston Rd. (George Ashe Community Centre)
When:

•  Nov. 9—12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Nov. 10– 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

Octave Choir Remembrance Concert

The Octave Choir presents a moving concert featuring various music to honour and remember.

Where: 629 Liverpool Rd. (St.John’s C of E Parish Church Ainsdale)
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

STCC’s MEHFIL with Ben Parag

It is an evening filled with music, dinner, drinks and snacks, featuring a performance by Ben Parag.

Where: 2590 Brock Rd. (Devi Mandir)
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $50

Ajax:

The Daily Neighbourhood Walk/Run – Ajax Suburbs at Miller’s Creek (Route D)

Join a scenic community walk/run through the Ajax suburbs. This Level 1 Walk/Run includes 20 minutes of running, 25 minutes of walking/recovery, and a 10-minute warmup and cooldown.

Where: 15 Westney Rd. (Meet at Starbucks)
Time: 9 a.m.
Cost: $10 per session

Switch Gamers Tournament

Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart are on the agenda for this monthly gaming event at the Ajax Library’s Main Branch. Participants can compete for a monthly prize or play casually. Refreshments are provided.

Where: 55 Harwood Ave. S.
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free

Whitby: 

Lost in Yonkers

Bella, a socially awkward thirty-five-year-old, lives with her strict Grandma Kurnitz. When her brother Eddie leaves his two young sons with Grandma to go on the road, the boys must adjust to life with their tough grandmother, Bella’s hidden love life and their shady Uncle Louie—all in the unfamiliar world of Yonkers.

Where: 416 Centre St. S.
Time:

• 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• 8 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Oshawa: 

A Concert of Remembrance

The community is invited to a concert commemorating those who have served in the armed forces, both past and present. The program includes performances by the Lakeshore New Horizons Band, the Young Singers youth choir and piper Iain Lynch, along with reflective remarks and a military display. Admission is free, with donations accepted for participating non-profit groups. Refreshments will be provided following the concert.

Where: 632 Thornton Rd. N. (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints )
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: Free

Annual Outdoor Christmas Market

Columbus Community United Church is hosting its Annual Outdoor Christmas Market, featuring unique gift items, home decor, soaps, candles, toys, and more. There will be plenty of activities for kids, including Santa’s Workshop, photos with Santa and a special appearance by The Grinch.

Where: 3285 Simcoe St. N.
Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free (non-perishable food donations appreciated)

Holiday Vendor Sale

Kingsview United Church is hosting a Holiday Vendor Sale featuring a variety of shops with holiday and Christmas-themed items.

Where: 505 Adelaide Ave. E.
Time:  9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free

Memphis To Vegas Tribute To Elvis Presley

The Blue Suede Elvis tribute band delivers a pure rock ‘n’ roll experience, honouring Elvis Presley’s iconic music.

Where: 39 King St. E. (The Biltmore Theatre)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets $39.50

The Trojan Women

Durham Shoestring Performers presents The Trojan Women, adapted by Ellen McLaughlin and directed by Andra Kelly. This anti-war story portrays the resilience and struggles of displaced women.

Where: 45 Queen St. (Arts Resource Centre)
Time:

• Nov. 9— 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Nov. 10—2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

November 10

Pickering:

Pickering 4″ Snowman/Holiday Theme Rock-Dot-Paint Night

Join a festive workshop where participants will paint adorable snowman designs on rocks using the dot-painting technique—perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!

Where: 1355 Kingston Rd. (State & Main)
Time: 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $40 plus applicable taxes

Ajax:

RIDGE feat. The Fugitives

Brendan McLeod and JUNO-nominated group, The Fugitives, bring “Ridge” to the stage, a tribute to the Canadian lives lost at Vimy Ridge.

Where: 78 Church St. S. (St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts and Culture )
Time: 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m
Cost: Tickets start at $41.80

Whitby: 

FREE Public Skating at McKinney Centre

Enjoy a free drop-in skate session with family and friends.

Where: 222 McKinney Dr.
Time: 11:15 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: Free

FREE Public Swim at Whitby Civic Recreation Complex

Enjoy a free drop-in swim session with family and friends.

Where: 555 Rossland Rd. E.
Time: 2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

Oshawa: 

Soul Full Day – Conference for Women

A day-long conference for women featuring inspirational speakers, transformative workshops and opportunities to build supportive connections. Explore personal growth topics and learn to move from fear to freedom in a welcoming community.

Where: 67 Lakeview Park Ave. (The Jubilee Pavilion Banquet Hall and Conference Centre)
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $149

—Cover photo of The Fugitives via eventbrite.ca