Holiday Art Cafe – Hangar Skate at YZD

We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Holiday Art Cafe as part of Hangar Skate at YZD! 

This all-ages, artist led space is the perfect opportunity to expand your creativity during the holiday season, with talented artists to help guide you towards your next masterpiece.Glide into winter at YZD with free outdoor ice skating and warm up in the YZD Community Hall at the Holiday Art Cafe loaded with art supplies and crafts to try, and maybe even master – at no extra cost!

Led by Farida Zaman (Dec. 19th – 23rd) and Declan David (Dec. 24th – Jan. 4th), participants will explore a range of festive and creative activities.

Dates & Times:

December 19th to January 4th, with special times of operations on December 19th. 

Led by Farida Zaman – Dec 19th to Dec 23rd

Create handmade Christmas tree decorations, abstract mindful collage, and holiday wreath-making!

• Dec 19th: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Dec 20th – 23rd: 12:00 – 5:00 PM

Led by Declan David – Dec 24th to Jan 4th

Create wood crafting projects (magnets, coasters, and ornaments), the Comic Creation Station, and the Postcard Art Station! 

• Dec 24th – Jan 4th: 12:00 – 5:00 PM (Closed on December 25)

Join us at 34 Hanover Road, this holiday season for FREE crafting!

Colours of Armenia: Art Workshop

Unleash your creativity, discover new techniques, and connect with the rich traditions of Armenian art.

Join artist and art teacher Tamara Harutyunyan for a warm, beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll explore acrylic painting while learning about the history and vibrant styles of renowned Armenian artists, including Minas Avetisyan, Martiros Saryan, Arshile Gorky, and more.

From Saryan’s glowing landscapes to Gorky’s bold modern visions, you’ll be inspired to create your own masterpiece in a supportive and engaging setting.

✨ What to Expect:

• Step-by-step acrylic painting instruction

• Insights into iconic Armenian artists and their techniques

• All art materials provided—just bring your enthusiasm!

📅 Workshop Dates (Tuesdays, 11 AM – 1 PM):

• Tuesday, Sept 9th, 11-1pm

• Tuesday, Sept 16th, 11-1pm

• Tuesday, Sept 23rd, 11-1pm

• Tuesday, Sept 30th, 11-1pm

📍 Location: Lower Gallery, Meridian Arts Centre, 5040 Yonge Street, Toronto

This workshop is open to adults of all ages. No prior art experience is required—just come ready to explore, experiment, and enjoy the creative journey.

This program is presented in partnership with TO Live.

Intro to Tatreez: Palestinian Embroidery Workshop

Join us for a 3-hour immersive workshop where tradition meets creativity! In this course, you’ll step into the world of tatreez—the intricate, symbolic embroidery that has been passed down through generations in Palestine.

What to Expect:

• Discover the cultural significance of tatreez as a powerful form of expression, storytelling, community, and resistance.

• Learn about the symbols and patterns most commonly found in tatreez and what they represent.

• Create your own hands-on embroidery project, guided step by step, to bring this art form to life in your own stitches.

📅 Date

UPCOMING SESSION: Saturday, October 18, 2025

⏰ Time

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

📍 Location

• October 18: Multi-Purpose Room #3, Parkway Forest Community Centre (55 Forest Manor Rd, North York, ON M2J 1G3)

Access notes on Parkway Forest Community Centre: Accessible parking spots (free), Accessible washrooms all floors, Braille signage Yes – rooms only Elevator Pathway from TTC or sidewalk to the entrance, Powered exterior door opener, Staffed reception desk, Water fountains all floors, Wheel-Trans drop-off/pick up close to the entrance

Whether you’re a complete beginner or simply curious about Palestinian heritage, this class offers a chance to connect with history, culture, and craft in a meaningful way.

Let’s Dance!

Let’s Dance! is a free, all ages outdoor dance workshop exploring the basic fundamentals of dance in an array of exciting international dance styles. 

Get ready to move your body! Participants can expect a fun, interactive and high energy environment to learn new dance moves and connect with local community members. 

This six week program  will take place once a week in the evening at The Orchard Pavillion in Downsview Park from September through October 2025. In the event of rain or inclement weather the program will move indoors inside The Hub at Downsview Park.

When: Thursday, September 4th, 2025 to Thursday, October 9th, 2025,

Time: 6-7pm

Location: In-person – 70 Canuck Avenue, Toronto, The HUB at Downsview Park 
*Due to the weather forecast, the first session will now be held indoors.*

Dance Schedule

• Sept 4 & Sept 25 – Definitely Dance (Hip Hop)

• Sept 11 & Oct 2 – Shifah Halima (Ugandan Kigandan Dance)

• Sept 18 & Oct 9 – Dance Life Studios (Salsa Line Dancing)

Let’s Dance! is A City of Toronto Cultural Hotspot SPARK Project.

Let’s Dance! is made in partnership with North York Arts and Downsview Park Hub.

Play On The Runway 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at YZD this August, where the historic 1km runway transforms into a playground of exhilarating activities and endless fun. Whether you’re biking, rollerskating, or simply enjoying the thrill of free play, there’s something for everyone.

This is more than an event—it’s a chance to have fun, connect with others, and make lasting memories. Bring your loved ones and join us for a weekend of adventure under the Toronto skyline.

Event Details: 

At this year’s Play On The Runway, NYA is excited to present a vibrant paint-by-numbers community mural led by talented artist AndreaCataRo (@AndreaCataRo). This collaborative art activity invites people of all ages to take part in creating a shared artistic vision, transforming public space into a canvas for connection, creativity, and celebration. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just curious to try something new, come paint with us and leave your mark on this joyful community event!

Dates: Saturday, August 9th & Sunday, August 10th

Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (both days)

Location: 10 Hanover Road Toronto, ON M3K 0E2

This is a family fun filled day for all ages – the most fun you’ll have stuck on a tarmac!

Good Form

North York Arts proudly presents Good Form – an inspiring workshop series in collaboration with The Greenprint Network!

We’re launching the series with Good Form, with two workshops Pose & Presence and The Art of The Voice. The Program is a blend of media and music programming encouraging confidence and refining technique.

Coming Up: 

Workshop 2 – Good Form: The Art of The Voice 

What Makes Vocals Iconic? Led by O’Neil Gerald, analyze standout vocal performances from today’s top artists to understand tone, texture, emotion, and delivery. Then apply these lessons in a Cover Flip Challenge, where small groups reinterpret a known song using newly learned techniques and share with the group.

Date: Thursday, July 17th

Time: 6:00 PM -9:00 PM

Location: The Hub at Downsview Park, 70 Canuck Ave, North York

Up to 25 participants: Open, adults, singers, music producers, music engineers, recording artists, songwriters