Fun Classes for Expats Living in Toronto
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Toronto by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
Toronto, a vibrant and multicultural city, offers a plethora of classes for English-speaking adults, including expats and digital nomads. Whether you're looking to hone a new skill, dive into the local culture, or simply meet new people, there's something for everyone. From cooking classes that tantalize your taste buds to language courses that help you communicate better, and from wine tasting sessions that refine your palate to creative arts that unleash your inner artist, Toronto's educational scene is as diverse as its population. Engaging in these classes can be a fantastic way to integrate into the community, learn something new, and make lasting connections. Below is a curated list of classes that cater to a wide range of interests.
George Brown College – Continuing Education
Type of Class(es): Culinary Arts, Baking, Language Learning, and more
Location: Various locations across Toronto
Website: coned.georgebrown.ca
George Brown College offers a wide array of continuing education courses suitable for English-speaking adults. Their culinary arts and baking programs are particularly popular, providing hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment. Language courses are also available for those looking to improve their English or learn a new language, with levels accommodating beginners to advanced speakers.
The Chef Upstairs
Type of Class(es): Cooking Classes
Location: 516 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON M4S 2M2
Website: www.thechefupstairs.com
The Chef Upstairs offers intimate cooking classes for all skill levels, where you can learn to prepare a variety of cuisines. Classes are taught by professional chefs in a fun and interactive setting, making it a great way to meet fellow food enthusiasts and learn new culinary skills.
AGO - Art Gallery of Ontario
Type of Class(es): Art Classes
Location: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4
Website: ago.ca
At the AGO, adults can explore their creativity through a range of art classes, including drawing, painting, and sculpture. These classes are designed for all levels and are taught by experienced artists and educators. It's a perfect setting to appreciate art and express oneself creatively.
LCBO Taste & Experience
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Cooking Classes
Location: Various LCBO locations
Website: www.lcbo.com
The LCBO offers wine tasting classes where you can learn about different wine regions, grape varieties, and tasting techniques. They also host cooking classes that often pair food with the perfect wine, providing a comprehensive culinary experience.
ILSC Language Schools - Toronto
Type of Class(es): English Language Courses
Location: 443 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 2H6
Website: www.ilsc.com
ILSC provides a variety of English language courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Their classes focus on conversation, grammar, and writing, helping students to improve their English proficiency in a supportive environment.
The Depanneur
Type of Class(es): Cooking Workshops
Location: 1033 College St, Toronto, ON M6H 1A8
Website: thedepanneur.ca
The Depanneur hosts unique cooking workshops where you can learn from guest chefs and get hands-on experience making dishes from around the world. It's a great place to explore international cuisines and connect with fellow food lovers.
Avenue Road Arts School
Type of Class(es): Visual Arts and Performing Arts Classes
Location: 460 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M4V 2J1
Website: www.avenueroadartsschool.com
Avenue Road Arts School offers a variety of visual and performing arts classes for adults, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and drama. These classes are taught by professional artists and are designed to cater to all skill levels.
The Wine Sisters
Type of Class(es): Wine Education and Tasting
Location: Various locations for events
Website: www.thewinesisters.com
The Wine Sisters provide engaging and informative wine education and tasting events. Whether you're a novice or a connoisseur, these classes offer a relaxed and enjoyable way to learn about wine and discover new favorites.
TIFF Bell Lightbox
Type of Class(es): Film Appreciation and Filmmaking Workshops
Location: 350 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5
Website: www.tiff.net
TIFF Bell Lightbox, the home of the Toronto International Film Festival, offers workshops and courses for film enthusiasts. These range from film appreciation to practical filmmaking skills, providing a unique opportunity to delve into the world of cinema.
Paintlounge
Type of Class(es): Social Painting Workshops
Location: Various locations across Toronto
Website: www.paintlounge.ca
Paintlounge offers a social painting experience where you can create art in a relaxed, café-like setting. It's a fun way to unwind, meet new people, and leave with your own masterpiece, no experience necessary.
Centre for Social Innovation (CSI) Workshops
Type of Class(es): Entrepreneurship and Innovation Workshops
Location: Various locations across Toronto
Website: socialinnovation.org
CSI provides workshops and events for those interested in social entrepreneurship and innovation. These classes are perfect for digital nomads and expats looking to network and gain insights into starting or growing a socially conscious business.
Le Dolci Culinary Classroom
Type of Class(es): Baking and Cake Decorating Classes
Location: 2700 Dufferin St Unit 13, Toronto, ON M6B 4J3
Website: ledolci.com
Le Dolci offers baking and cake decorating classes for all levels. Learn the art of making exquisite pastries and cakes in a fun, hands-on environment, and bring your sweet creations home to enjoy.
Harbourfront Centre Courses & Workshops
Type of Class(es): Arts, Crafts, and Performance
Location: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
Website: www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Harbourfront Centre offers a diverse range of courses and workshops in arts, crafts, and performance. These classes are designed to inspire and engage adults in the creative process, with stunning views of Lake Ontario as a backdrop.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.