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Toronto Weekender: The Philanthropic Bender

Every now and then we all need a little philanthropic bender. This is a huge weekend for some amazing charitable events, and we've mapped out the five tickets you need to support...and, because we're so rad, we've also tossed in a couple "me" moments for you to take advantage of

It’s the last weekend in September. Let’s just say that again: the last weekend in September. Couple of things: 1) Where’d the time go?; and 2) Really, where’d the time go? It’s the first day of Fall tomorrow, and that means it’s time to say au revoir to the summer, and of course, do so in Notable style. It’s not all bad. While we have to pack away the swim trunks and flip flops (for the eight of you who still wear them) for another year, we get to usher in the season of harvest – fall colours, tweed blazers, dress denim on a Wednesday, and the like. This weekend also signifies the beginning of Toronto’s fundraising and gala season, and what better way to start than with a 4-day philanthropic bender?

Thursday
Tonight being the final one of summer is an appropriate time for the last Paws for the Cause Lemonade Stand of the season. And to really outdo themselves, the Paws’ers are serving up a $99 lemonade. No, no, not 99 cents, 99 smackaroos. There’s method in their madness: The just-shy-of-a-bill glass gets you a ticket to the 2011 Paws Gala on October 27th, so in theory your spiked lemonade is actually free. Head over to the Beaconsfield on Queen West between 6 and 10pm to pick up your ticket-spiked glass of ‘ade.

Also on this eve is Shine On! Project Sunshine Canada’s bash at the Burroughes Building starting around 8pm. The fundraiser will feature the usual mix – drinks, deejays, dancing – but will also have a live Art Battle for the creatively-charged and unwittingly competitive YPs.

If you’re hankering for a meal of awesome proportions after you’ve finished shining it up, head over to the recently reopened New York Subway (520 Queen West) for a big, bad burrito with all the fixin’s.

Friday
Friday night should see you headed over to Dundas West near Ossington for a bite at the brand spankin’ new L’Ouvrier Kitchenbar (791 Dundas Street West). This spot boasts a Canadian-inspired menu of haute “working class” favourites…just how we like ’em.

Then, you’ll want to head home, toss on your best worst pop star ensemble, and moonwalk over to Maison Mercer for Artbound’s The pARTy. We love the Artbound cause, and last year’s event was named one of 2010’s top 10 events. Best bet: This year will be even hotter. Worst bet: A lot of sad wigs will be in attendance…though at least they’ll be on some good-lookin’ YPs.

Saturday
After your terribly-dressed but fantastic Friday night, get your Weekend chic on and head over to The Clothing Show for some restless wandering and wallet shrinking. While there, peruse the designs from some of Canada’s slyest up-and-coming talent and grab a few items for your Fall collection.

Drop your buys off at home and get ready for the evening’s main event: Robotica. The Three to Be Stems of Hope Gala and After Party is guaranteed to be the talk of the town. The Kool Haus is being transformed into a futuristic space, and the Barenaked Ladies are set to perform a quick-witted musical set. What more could you ask for on a Saturday night?

Sunday
Today’s philanthropic undertaking couldn’t come at a better time. After three nights of charitable bending, the Recovery Brunch in support of the Bridgepoint Health Foundation is the perfect way to rest and relax while lounging around the Thompson Hotel rooftop and sipping on mimosas. (Hair of the dog, right?) Feast on some superb brunch and spend the day taking it easy at the classy Thompson. Maybe even grab an early dinner at The Counter before heading home and tucking in early…

Image courtesy stock.xchang.

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