Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. Every Thursday, I’ll bring you the latest news, events, and stories from our community—all in one easy read.

In this week’s newsletter:

🎪 Cirque du Soleil’s Big Move: A massive new venue lands in Humber Bay Shores.
🛍️ Bay Days Are Numbered: Liquidation begins at Sherway Gardens.
💸 Councillor Pay Hike? A proposed 24% raise stirs debate at City Hall.
🚌 TTC Boosts Service: Etobicoke routes get a frequency refresh this weekend.

Plus, your local events, weather, and a Cirque-themed trivia challenge to test your Etobicoke knowledge!

THE DIGEST

🎪 Cirque’s Big Move Lands in Etobicoke 🎪
Cirque du Soleil is ditching its iconic Big Top for something, well, a lot bigger. This May, the world’s largest free-standing event venue will pop up in Etobicoke’s Humber Bay Shores. Dubbed the Pavilion, it’s the size of 22 tennis courts and will host Cirque’s revamped insect-themed show Ovo. The site? The old Mr. Christie’s factory grounds. While past shows sparked local gripes about traffic and noise, Cirque says they’re working with the city to keep things neighbor-friendly. Curtain goes up May 1.

🛍️ Hudson’s Bay Liquidation Kicks Off at Sherway Gardens 🛍️
Shoppers poured into Etobicoke’s Sherway Gardens on Monday as Hudson’s Bay launched liquidation sales following a creditor protection filing — marking the beginning of the end for Canada’s oldest retailer. While some were disappointed to find items still full price, others came for deals and stayed for the nostalgia, reflecting on decades of memories tied to the iconic brand. Nearly all stores will close, with only six — including three in the GTA — set to remain. It’s a bittersweet farewell, as bargain hunters hunt for steals and longtime fans say goodbye.

💸 Toronto Councillors Eye 24% Pay Bump — Not Everyone’s On Board 💸
Toronto city councillors could soon vote themselves a 24% raise, bumping their salaries to over $170K — and not everyone’s thrilled. Etobicoke Centre councillor Stephen Holyday says he’s firmly against it, citing bad timing after two years of steep property tax hikes and ongoing economic uncertainty. The proposed pay hike is set to be debated at City Hall this week, but Holyday warns even discussing it could chip away at public trust.

🚌 TTC Bumps Up Bus Service in Etobicoke and Beyond 🚌
Starting Sunday, your commute might get a little smoother. The TTC is upping service on 14 bus routes across Etobicoke, North York, and Scarborough — including weekday boosts for the 944 Kipling South Express and weekend upgrades on the 927 Highway 27 Express. Mayor Olivia Chow says the goal is fewer delays, less bunching, and more reliable rides. Bonus: Line 4 Sheppard is getting more subway trains (hello, shorter wait times), and the 505 Dundas and 506 Carlton streetcars are getting some Saturday love too.

Upcoming Events & Happenings

• April 5th - Hands-On Introduction to Fossils
  Richview Library | 2nd Floor Program Room

  Curious about dinosaurs and ancient life? 🦖 Join this interactive fossil workshop to examine real and replica specimens from around the world. Learn about evolution, fossilization, and how species are connected through an engaging, hands-on session. 🕑 2:00–3:30 p.m. | 📞 Register: 416-394-5120
  🎯 Adult program | Free with registration
  

• April 19th - 3rd Annual Easter MRKT
  Mimico Square | 2445 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

  Hop into spring at the Easter MRKT! 🌸🐰 Shop from 25+ local vendors featuring handmade goods, baked treats, candles, and gifts. Kids can enjoy free activities and a special visit from the Easter Bunny! 🕚 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• April 19-20 - Easter Buffet at Old Mill Toronto
  Old Mill Toronto | 21 Old Mill Rd.

  Celebrate Easter with a delicious buffet at Old Mill Toronto! 🐰🥂 Enjoy chef-carved roasts, fresh seafood, vegan & gluten-free options, decadent desserts, and the famous chocolate fountain. Plus, a special visit from the Easter Bunny—perfect for family photos! 🕚 10:30 a.m.
  

• May 3rd - Etobicoke Lawn Bowling Club Open House
  Tom Riley Park (just behind Montgomery Inn)

  Try something new this spring! 🥏 The Etobicoke Lawn Bowling Club invites you to their Open House—learn the basics of the game, meet members, and roll a few bowls. Great for all ages and skill levels!

  🕜 1:30 p.m. | ✅ Free lessons, equipment, and refreshments
  

Weather

• Thursday, Mar. 27: High 11°C, Low -4°C 🌤️

• Friday, Mar. 28: High 4°C, Low 0°C 🌧️

• Saturday, Mar. 29: High 7°C, Low 1°C 🌧️

• Sunday, Mar. 30: High 5°C, Low 1°C 🌧️

• Monday, Mar. 31: High 14°C, Low 1°C ☁️

• Tuesday, Apr. 1: High 5°C, Low -2°C 🌤️

• Wednesday, Apr. 2: High 6°C, Low -1°C ☁️

Fun & Games

🎪 Etobicoke Trivia – Cirque Style! 🎪

Cirque du Soleil is bringing its massive new show to Humber Bay Shores this spring—but it’s not the first time Etobicoke’s been home to a large-scale performance venue.

Which now-closed Etobicoke landmark once hosted concerts, trade shows, and even a roller rink?

Reply with your guess, and the first correct answer will get a shoutout in next week’s issue!

Like being in the know? Share the love! Forward this newsletter to friends and neighbors who’d enjoy staying up-to-date on all things Etobicoke. 📬

Thanks for reading! See you next week for more of what’s happening in Etobicoke.

-Bri