THE GIFT OF AN EXPERIENCE
Presents that won’t fit under the tree,
Who says gifts need to be wrapped? Some of the best presents you can give to family and friends won’t fit under a tree — they’re meant to be experienced. Be it a helicopter tour, dancing lessons or go-kart racing, you’ll find memorable gift experiences for everyone on your list. And they sure beat giving someone a pair of socks.
Have a night at the ‘opera’
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s extravagant musical The Phantom of the Opera is back on stage at the Princess of Wales Theatre until Jan. 23, giving theatre buffs another chance to hear modern classics such as “Think of Me,” “The Music of the Night” and that incredible title song. Get the gift You can book tickets, starting at $39, on the Mirvish website.
Shake up some cocktails
Ever wondered how beer is made, or the proper way to prepare cocktails for a party? Bartending schools across Toronto offer courses in just that, making a perfect gift for budding bartenders and booze lovers. Get the gift Try the $59 one-day course offered by BareBones Bartending or the $125 introductory class offered at the Bartending School of Ontario.
Tour the Toronto skyline
Both out-of-towners and longtime Toronto residents could appreciate a new view of the city’s skyline, so give them a tour. Boat tours might suit anyone afraid of heights, while a helicopter tour could be a good fit for thrill-seekers. Get the gift Fly by the CN Tower thanks to the Helicopter Company Inc., starting at $97, or see the city from the water by booking a $40 harbour cruise for two through Perfect Day Experiences.
Discover dancing
Treat your partner to some dance lessons at one the city’s many dance studios. Whatever fancy footwork you’re looking for, be it the waltz, salsa or busting a move like Beyoncé, you’ll find it in Toronto. Get the gift Classes at various price points are held at studios throughout the city, including the Underground Dance Centre, which offers a five-class pass for $65.
Quench a need for speed
Car-loving kids — and their parents, because who are we kidding here? — will get their fast-car fix with a trip to an indoor go-kart track. Get the gift Head to 401 Mini-Indy near Martin Grove and Dixon Rds., which includes double go-karts for adults and kids — and 15 laps for $15, plus a $5 membership fee.
Channel someone’s inner Katniss
Archery is hot in Toronto, likely thanks to the heroine of the popular Hunger Games series — making lessons in this ancient sport a solid gift choice. (Bonus points if you wrap up a bow and arrow, too.) Get the gift The Toronto School of Archery offers classes at $25 per session, with a minimum of four sessions.
Do as the dogs do
Anyone looking for an adventure will find it through dog sledding. Race through Ontario’s snow-covered hills — topped off with cute dogs and warm winter drinks. Get the gift TryThat.ca offers dog sledding tours around Orillia starting at $150 per person for a half-day.
Hack some waterfalls
Rock climbing is so 2014. For the outdoorsy adventurers on your list, an ice-climbing experience — complete with spiked shoes and ice picks — could be just the ticket this holiday season. Get the gift One Axe Pursuits offers beginner-friendly ice climbing in Elora, Ont., starting at $160.
Act out that scene from Ghost
You know the one — that steamy pottery scene. It could be the perfect couples experience and, as a bonus, you might make some tangible gifts to put under the Christmas tree next year. Talk about advance planning. (You’re welcome.) Get the gift Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre has various classes for both pottery and ceramic making, running around $300 for six weeks.