The top 5 free events in Toronto: December 1-7, 2014

Free events in Toronto this week will have you playing dare or dare at the art gallery, dancing to local music, watching films from Japan, and playing with antique toys. You can also have fun for cheap at Array Space with free noise ensemble Gravitons with Brodie West, a video investigation of the awkward years with That Teenage Feeling at Videofag, and an issue launch for one of Toronto's coolest indie mags, cleo - all are PWYC.

Here are my picks for keeping your rag covered nose out of the wind in Toronto this week.

1. Dare Night (December 3, AGO)

On Wednesday you can play truth or dare in the Art Gallery of Ontario just like you always wanted thanks to Mammalian Diving Reflex's residency. One catch - the truth is out (sorry Agent Mulder) and this is all about the dares. I'm not sure what happens if you get dared to touch the art.

2. Field Trip Discovery Series VI (Dec 4, Drake Underground)

Miss Field Trip's big summer outing at the park? It may be indoors, but Field Trip is curating free indie expos off season. This one features Calvin Love, Michael Rault, New Hands, and Aron D'Alesio. Just like extra time at recess, there's a catch - you've got to RSVP here.

3. Bedroomer Vol. 1 Release Party (December 4, Bambi's)

On Dundas West this Thursday celebrate the release of the (free) first Bedroomer mixtape, which has Toronto pop and dance fans pretty excited. AM, Eytan Tobin, Gill Bondy, & Lum will perform, and it's free to attend. Read more on Thump.

4. Free Japanese Movies (December 7-9, Bloor Cinema)

Toronto's Japan Foundation teams up with the Consulate-General of Japan this Sunday to present free programming focused on the youth of Japan. Films include 'Til the Break of Dawn, Kids Police, and a movie I watched on a plane once and fell in love with, the adorably twee Akko-chan: The Movie.

5. Toy Pop Up Museum (December 7, Spadina Museum)

On Sunday, lovers of the colourful and kitschy art of toys can see this pop up display on Spadina including vintage toys that the City of Toronto has been hoarding in their collections. You can also bring your own toys, from battered Buzz Lightyears to handmade Russian nesting dolls, to add to the show.

Also check out these regular free events

Elvis Mondays (Mondays, The Drake)

Toronto's longest running indie showcase, William New's free show has put thousands of bands on stage. It's at the Drake Underground every Monday.

Free Nights at the Horseshoe (Monday/Tuesday, The Horseshoe)

The Legendary Horseshoe has a storied history, and hosts free indie rock shows in the early week with Shoeless Mondays and Dave Bookman's Nu Music Night on Tuesdays.

Free Evening (Wednesday, AGO)

The Art Gallery of Ontario's free evening runs from 6-8:30pm. It can be a little crowded, but sometimes the people watching is as good as the art (sometimes).

CINSSU's Free Friday Films (Fridays)

Though the Innis Town Hall is still under construction, you can follow the Cinema Studies Student Union for reliable Friday night movies and solid picks at Isabel Bader Theatre and/or Alumni Hall 100.

Canadian Opera Company (Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre)

September through to early June, catch free classical shows at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts "most Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon, and some Wednesdays at noon or 5:30 p.m."

MOCCA (Monday - Sunday)

While nearly all art galleries in the city are free to enter, it's worth noting The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA) is always PWYC.

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Lead photo: Akko-chan: The Movie

by Aubrey Jax via blogTO