NEW CULTURAL EVENTS
ONTARIO CULTURE DAYS EVENTS
Festa della Ciambella Verolana
- Sunday, September 20, 11:00am – 1:30pm
Join us for a live demonstration by the Veroli Cultural Society as they showcase the art of making ciambelle, the traditional anise-flavoured bread from the City of Veroli, located in the province of Frosinone in Italy’s Lazio region. The event will also feature musical entertainment by Gianni Mignardi. Wine, biscotti, and light refreshments will be served.
In the event of rain, the activities will be moved indoors
Price:
$10.00
Location:
Anthony Fusco Sr. Courtyard,
Columbus Centre
Presented in partnership with Veroli Cultural Society.
Grape Pressing Festival
- Sunday, October 4, 11:00am – 1:30pm
Join us for this outdoor community event and experience the Italian tradition of grape pressing with a live demonstration. Learn how fresh grapes are pressed into barrels to begin the winemaking process. Plus, enjoy light refreshments, musical entertainment and raffle prizes.
Price:
$10.00
In the event of rain, the event will be moved indoors.
Location:
Anthony Fusco Sr. Courtyard,
Columbus Centre
“Ciorciara/?/Canadese”
Book Launch with Author Gianna Patriarca
- Wednesday, October 21, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Join us for an evening of literature, poetry, and storytelling celebrating the launch of Gianna Patriarca’s new book, “Ciociara/?/Canadese”.
The evening will begin with an introduction by Professor Bruno Magliocchetti of the University of Toronto’s Department of Italian Studies, followed by a reading and conversation with Gianna Patriarca. She will share excerpts from her new book, “Ciociara/?/Canadese”, as well as selections from her acclaimed earlier collection, “Italian Women and Other Tragedies”. Through her readings and reflections, Patriarca will explore the ideas, memories, experiences, and stories that have shaped her work across the decades.
Through poetry, personal reflection, and storytelling, Patriarca’s writing explores Italian and Italian-Canadian experiences, women’s lives, identity, memory, and the complexities of belonging.
Price:
$5.00
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Between Democracy and Republic:
The American and French Revolutions
- Wednesday, November 4, 6:00 – 7:30pm
The American and French Revolutions mark watershed moments in the development of modern Western democracy and republican government. In both contexts, the rejection of monarchical rule sparked intense debates about the appropriate form of government for the newly liberated states—democracy or republic? These discussions drew heavily on ancient Greek and Roman political models and intellectual traditions.
University of Toronto lecturer and researcher Giulio Leghissa will lead the audience through a comparative journey across America and Europe to reveal the ancient foundations of modern democratic and republican thought.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
“Along the Way…The Stories I Leave With You”
Presentation by Konrad Eisenbichler
- Tuesday, November 10, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Join us for a heartfelt presentation by Professor Konrad Eisenbichler of “Along the Way…The Stories I Leave With You,” a rich collection of memories by his brother, Wilhelm (Willy) Eisenbichler. The book brings together reflections shaped by a life of challenges and accomplishments, family and friendships, and moments that are both amusing and deeply human.
Faced with a terminal diagnosis, Willy sat down to write what he most wanted his young grandchildren to know and remember about him. He shares a life journey that spans continents and decades: from his birth in Austria and childhood in Italy, to his adolescence in Hamilton; from university years at McMaster and Western, to his first full-time position in Weyburn, Saskatchewan; from a long career in Sault Ste. Marie to retirement in London, Ontario.
Along the way, Willy reflects on pivotal moments and vivid stories—the riddle of the three babies, his parents’ “time of terror” in their hometown, the adventure of emigrating to Canada by ship, the unexpected advantages of a foreign accent, and more. The result is a series of intimate snapshots, capturing moments as they unfold, told with spontaneity, clarity, and unassuming charm.
The presentation will be given by Konrad Eisenbichler, series editor and Willy’s brother; Sheree Wilson, book editor and Willy’s widow; and Alexandra Eisenbichler, author of the introduction and Willy’s daughter.
The evening will also feature a Q&A, with book copies available for purchase while supplies last.
Price:
$5.00
Light refreshments will be served.
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Chestnut Festival
Festa della Castagna
- Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 – 8:30pm
Join us for our annual community festa to enjoy complimentary roasted chestnuts* in celebration of San Martino. This FREE event coincides with our Ballo Liscio night, with social dancing and music.
Price:
FREE
*First-come, first served, while supplies last.
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Jazz at the Columbus Centre
- December 3
Back by popular demand, Jazz at the Columbus Centre returns with five unforgettable concerts celebrating the richness, diversity and enduring appeal of jazz. This curated series brings together outstanding Canadian musicians and vocalists to explore iconic recordings, global jazz influences, beloved composers, and seasonal favourites—all presented in an intimate and elegant concert setting.
From jazz’s greatest hits and Brazilian bossa nova to the timeless music of George Gershwin, festive holiday swing, and Italian classics reimagined, this series invites audiences to discover the music they love—performed with artistry, imagination, and style.
Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan or a curious first‑time listener, this series offers a welcoming and richly rewarding journey through the sound, history, and spirit of jazz.
- Thursday, December 3, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Beloved vocalist John Alcorn, joined by the ever‑elegant Daniel Barnes Trio, brings swing, warmth and swagger to musical favourites of the holiday season.
The weather outside may be frightful, but inside it’s beginning to look — and sound — a lot like a holly jolly Christmas. From festive classics to jazzy seasonal gems, this joyful concert ushers in the holidays with style, sophistication and plenty of cheer.
John Alcorn – Vocals
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Paul Novotny – Bass
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
- Thursday, April 30, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Celebrate International Jazz Day with an exceptional evening of music as drummer and arranger Daniel Barnes leads an all‑star ensemble of JUNO Award–winning musicians—saxophonist Richard Underhill and bassist Paul Novotny—alongside rising star pianist Evan Miles. Together, they pay tribute to some of the most popular and influential recordings in jazz history.
Featuring music made famous by Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and more, this concert honours the jazz tradition of re‑imagining beloved works. Expect familiar melodies, bold improvisation, and fresh perspectives from some of Canada’s finest jazz artists as they join the global celebration of jazz’s enduring legacy.
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Richard Underhill – Saxophone
Evan Miles – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
- Thursday, May 28, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Vocalist Alyssa Giammaria lends her rich, expressive voice to nostalgic Neapolitan favourites such as “Volare,” “O Sole Mio,” and music from “The Godfather” — all reimagined in stylish jazz arrangements.
With arrangements by acclaimed pianist Anthony D’Alessandro and the distinguished bass work of Paul Novotny, this concert offers a fresh and elegant take on familiar melodies, blending Neapolitan song tradition with the improvisational spirit of jazz.
Alyssa Giammaria – Vocals
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
- Friday, September 11, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Acclaimed Brazilian vocalist Fernanda Cunha brings her warmth, elegance, and authenticity to an intimate evening of classic bossa nova. Known for its intimacy, sophistication and gently hypnotic rhythms, this beloved genre comes alive through timeless works by Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto, Luiz Bonfá, and others.
Backed by a stellar ensemble, Cunha’s expressive voice transports audiences to sun‑soaked evenings and the romantic heart of Brazil. A lush, elegant concert that is both relaxing and deeply expressive.
Fernanda Cunha – Vocals
Reg Schwager – Guitar
Tom Szczesniak – Piano
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
- Thursday, October 29, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Pianist and composer Anthony D’Alessandro brings his signature swing, scintillating technique, and irresistible showmanship to a celebration of one of the most influential composers in jazz and American popular music: George Gershwin.
Featuring beloved selections from Gershwin’s vast catalogue — spanning jazz standards, musicals, and concert works — this performance honours a monumental figure whose music continues to define the Great American Songbook. Joining D’Alessandro are trumpet virtuoso Kevin Turcotte, bassist Paul Novotny, and drummer Daniel Barnes in a truly star‑studded ensemble.
Anthony D’Alessandro – Piano
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Paul Novotny – Bass
Daniel Barnes – Drums
Price:
$30.00 (Adults) / $25.00 (Seniors/Students) (per concert)
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Series sponsored by Aion Law Partners.
Ballo Liscio
Social Dancing Nights
- Wednesdays, August 5 – October 28
The Italian tradition of Ballo Liscio continues every Wednesday at Villa Charities. Join us for these popular social dancing nights featuring music by popular Italian DJs and musicians.
Price:
A ‘PAY WHAT YOU CAN’ EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
ONTARIO CULTURE DAYS EVENTS
Instrument Petting Zoo
Columbus Centre School of Music
- Saturday, September 19, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Let curiosity lead the way at the Instrument Petting Zoo! Aspiring musicians of all ages can get up close with a wide range of instruments, try them out for themselves, and learn directly from talented instructors who are on hand to demonstrate techniques and answer questions. Discover the joy of making music in an engaging and welcoming environment.
It’s an interactive musical adventure you won’t want to miss.
Special Culture Days Offer: All participants will receive a 10% discount on music lessons at the Columbus Centre School of Music.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Music Studios, Lower Level
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Studio Gallery Tours
Academy of Realist Art
- Saturdays, September 19, 26 & October 3, 10, 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Mondays, September 21, 28 & October 5, 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Thursdays, September 24 & October 1 & 8, 10:00am – 4:00pm
At the Academy of Realist Art, through a unique step-by-step process, students master the skills and disciplines needed to create realist art.
Visit the in-studio art gallery and be amazed by great classical works of art by our students and master instructors.
For more information, email info@academyofrealistart.com or call 416-766-1280.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Academy of Realist Art, Second Floor
Columbus Centre
Sponsored by Academy of Realist Art.
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
“PescAmare”
Documentary Screening
- Monday, September 21, 7:00 – 8:15pm
The acclaimed film by Italian director Andrea Lodovichetti explores the lives of Italian fishermen, capturing the hardships of life at sea, time spent away from family, and the risks of their profession.
The generational tradition, the respect for the sea, the fear and the challenge of man’s adventure, the survival to eat and trade. Nothing is created, nothing is destroyed, everything is transformed. The ports of small towns, just like the one in Fano, are different. They have changed, over the years. Deeply changed. Yet, their richness hasn’t changed. They are rich in mankind, so varied and bursting, noisy and tireless. Multiethnic: north African people, Ceylonese people, Indians, Egyptians. It’s wrong to claim that something, once change occurs, should be considered “dead”.
Traditions won’t perish as long as we hear those raucous voices, that peculiar expression, the accent of those “oldies” we’ve grown up with and who are still working with the same courageous old-time determination. And in spite of everything.
Screened in Italian with English subtitles.
Price:
A PAY WHAT YOU CAN EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Recreational Drop-in Dance Classes
DanzArts Toronto
- September 21 – 26
Interested in trying out a new dance class? DanzArts Toronto is excited to introduce children ages from 2.5 years old and up to the joy of dance by showcasing its benefits in a fun and inclusive environment! Between September 21 and 26, try any of DanzArts’ Recreational classes* for free and discover a rewarding experience designed for dancers of all experience levels.
For more information, email: dance@danzartstoronto.com or call 647-954-9868.
*Dates & times subject to 2026/2027 Recreational class schedule & availability.
Price:
FREE
Location:
DanzArts Toronto Studios,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Yoga in the Gallery
with Seth Mohan
- Tuesdays, September 22 & 29, 1:00pm
Join us for free drop-in yoga classes and amidst the backdrop of stunning artwork in the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery. Expert instructor Seth Mohan will teach participants the movement, meditation and breathing techniques of Hatha Yoga and Gentle Hatha Yoga, to promote mental and physical well-being.
Participants will receive a 20% Discount Voucher toward a Columbus Centre Athletic Club Membership.
For more information, email fitness@villacharities.com or call 416-789-7011 ext. 213.
Hatha Yoga in the Gallery
- Tuesday, September 22, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
The primary purpose of yoga is the reconditioning of the system, both body and mind, to achieve the highest possible standard of physical stamina, mental health, and organic vigour. Hatha Yoga is considered as a method that produces maximum results with minimal energy expenditure. A maximum of 30 participants will be allowed. Participants should bring their own mats.
Gentle Hatha Yoga in the Gallery
- Tuesday, September 29, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Gentle Hatha Yoga is designed for older adults who may be experiencing depression, mental stress, arthritis, or osteoporosis. In this class, you will learn to meditate, breath correctly though yoga methods that will improve your body posture awareness and self-confidence. No mat work, and chairs will be provided.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Presented in partnership with Columbus Centre Athletic Club.
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Republican Experiences in Renaissance Italy:
Florence between Machiavelli and Guicciardini
- Wednesday, September 23, 6:00 – 7:30pm
Violence, instability, and political upheaval have long shaped the histories of republics and democracies. In Renaissance Florence, these dynamics were central to the turbulent period between 1494 and 1512. During this time, influential thinkers Niccolò Machiavelli and Francesco Guicciardini developed their distinctive views on republicanism and democratic governance.
In his lecture presentation, University of Toronto lecturer and researcher Giulio Leghissa will illuminate Renaissance approaches to republican and democratic ideas through the political experiences and writings of Machiavelli and Guicciardini.
Part of the “Democracy: Origins, Transformations and Global Legacies” lecture series.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Latin Nights
Ballo Liscio Social Dancing
- Wednesdays, September 23, 30 & October 7, 6:30 – 8:30pm
Celebrate Culture Days with special Latin-themed editions of our Ballo Liscio social dancing nights. Enjoy Italian classics and Latin rhythms with a live performance by Tony Nazzari on September 23. Join us on September 30 and October 7 for lively Latin music and dance demonstrations featuring Joe Maio and Armonia Music.
Price:
A PAY WHAT YOU CAN EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Bluegrass Music Workshop and Concert
- Thursday, September 24, 7:30 – 9:00pm
The Appalachian Mountains stretch across eastern North America and are home to one of the region’s most distinctive musical traditions: bluegrass. Rooted in a rich blend of influences, including folk music, Irish and Scottish dance traditions, gospel, spirituals, and country music, bluegrass is known for its high, lonesome sound, close vocal harmonies, and virtuosic instrumentation.
Popularized in the 1950s and introduced to new audiences through the Coen Brothers’ film “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” (2000), bluegrass continues to resonate today. In an era dominated by technology-driven music, it offers a powerful connection to community, storytelling, tradition, and the natural landscapes that shaped its development.
Join Dr. Giulio Leghissa for an engaging exploration of the origins, history, and diverse sounds of bluegrass music. Through discussion and live performance, he will showcase a selection of traditional bluegrass tunes on guitar and banjo, accompanied by acclaimed Toronto-based singer-songwriter Les Armstrong, whose music is grounded in folk, roots, and rock traditions.
Price:
A PAY WHAT YOU CAN EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Cyanotype Printing
Art Workshop
- Monday, September 28, 3:00 – 4:30pm
Discover the beautiful art of cyanotype printing in this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn how to create stunning blue-and-white botanical prints using sunlight, natural materials, and light-sensitive solutions. No previous art experience is required – just bring your creativity and enjoy experimenting with this unique photographic process.
Please note that this is an indoor and outdoor workshop and requires sunlight.
All materials included.
Price:
FREE
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
Movement, Music and Wellness
Fitness Workshop
- Tuesday, September 29, 6:00 – 8:00pm
This inclusive fitness and wellness workshop is designed for adults aged 65+. Inspired by Italian culture and community, the session combines gentle seated and standing exercises, light strength and mobility activities, balance work, Italian music, and a fun group challenge.
All movements can be modified to suit different comfort and mobility levels, so no previous fitness experience is required. After the activity portion, participants are invited to relax, connect, and enjoy conversation with others in a warm and social atmosphere.
Come move, laugh, enjoy familiar Italian music, and celebrate wellness together!
Price:
FREE
Location:
Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
History of Italian Folk Instruments
Presentation and Performance
- Thursday, October 1, 7:30 – 9:00pm
Italian folk instruments reflect centuries of cultural traditions, regional identities, and community life across the Italian peninsula and its islands. From the ancient triple pipes of Sardinia to the frame drums and bagpipes of southern Italy, these instruments have evolved through pre-Christian rituals, medieval trade influences, and local customs, shaping the vibrant sounds of folk traditions such as the tarantella and today’s folk revival.
Join musician and educator Roberto Di Placido for an engaging exploration of the history and significance of Italian folk instruments. Through informative discussion, instrument demonstrations, and live music, discover the rich heritage and enduring appeal of Italy’s traditional music.
Price:
A PAY WHAT YOU CAN EVENT
(Donations welcome at the door.)
Location:
Columbus Room,
Columbus Centre
Official Festival Hub of 2026 Ontario Culture Days.
For more information, please contact:
Mirella Tersigni
Cultural Manager, Cultural Programming
Email: mtersigni@villacharities.com