Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. As always, I’ve rounded up the latest local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop.

In this week’s newsletter:

🎭 Nutcracker Drama: Ballet set stolen, then found
💰 Heist Madness: Excavator used in bank robbery
👮‍♀️ Cop Patrols: More officers on Line 1 Yonge

Plus: Holiday markets, Santa Parade, festive cheer 🎅

THE DIGEST

🎭🎄 Nutcracker Set Stolen, then Miraculously Found 🎄🎭 
Ballet Jörgen's holiday tour hit a bump when their Nutcracker set was swiped in Etobicoke, leaving them scrambling for alternatives. Cue the happy ending: the stolen truck, packed with the irreplaceable sets, was recovered in Brampton. The dance community rallied, offering sets and support, showcasing a heartwarming display of solidarity. Christmas is back on for the Ontario ballet, with the show going on as planned.

💰💣 Bank Heist Gone Rogue 💣💰 
In a bizarre turn of events, thieves in Etobicoke attempted a bank robbery using an excavator to smash through the building. This unconventional break-in near Rexdale Boulevard has left police scratching their heads and residents stunned. While no one was hurt and no arrests have been made, the audacity of using heavy machinery for a heist has certainly raised eyebrows—and concerns over bank security.

👮‍♀️🚇 More Cops, Less Crime? 🚇👮‍♂️ 
Toronto police are ramping up their community patrol game, with additional officers slated for areas like Dufferin Grove and Etobicoke City Centre. Plus, Line 1 Yonge-University is getting some extra love with dedicated officers. With a focus on reducing crime and increasing safety, these strategic moves aim to strengthen neighborhood relationships and boost security for commuters.

Upcoming Events

• November 28 – Creative Socials at Cloverdale

  Cloverdale Common | 250 The East Mall

  Join Arts Etobicoke for Creative Socials, a vibrant coworking and social space where creativity and community come together! Bring your art supplies, work on your projects, or simply enjoy the free coffee and company of fellow art enthusiasts from Etobicoke. Everyone is welcome to this friendly, drop-in event.

  🕑 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Free entry – no registration required
  

• November 29 – Indoor Christmas Market
  Franklin Horner Community Centre | 432 Horner Ave.
  Delicious baked goods, barbecue, and amazing vendors kickstart the holiday season! Enjoy a festive indoor market with treats and treasures for everyone.
  🕙 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Free entry

• November 29 – New Toronto Holiday Market
  2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive,
  Celebrate the season at this festive market hosted by Humber Polytechnic and Lakeshore Grounds. Discover holiday-themed vendors, local makers, and cheerful winter vibes by the lake. 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Free admission
  

• December 6 – Etobicoke-Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade

  Lake Shore Boulevard West | First St. to Thirty Fifth St.

  Kick off the holiday season with festive cheer at the 35th annual Etobicoke-Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade! 🎅 With over 50 groups, including jolly pups, energetic sports teams, and talented bands and performers, it's a delightful event for the whole family. 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Free admission, come early for the best spots!

• December 11 – Holiday Market

  St. George's Junior School | 70 Princess Anne Crescent

  Join us for a festive evening at the Holiday Market! Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious treats from local vendors. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and support the community. 🎁✨

  🕕 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Free entry
  

• December 12 – Winter Sweets: A Festive Concert

  Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd.

  Come cozy up with us on a chilly winter's evening for a delightful concert with the Etobicoke Philharmonic. Enjoy performances by guest violinists Mark Whale and Erick Oliver Wawrzkiewicz, alongside seasonal favorites like "Symphonic Chocolates" by Maxime Goulet. Embrace the festive spirit with a sing-along, a fun guest conductor opportunity, and the chance to win exciting gift baskets.

  🕗 8:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available.

Weather

• Thu, Nov 27: High 2°C, Low 0°C ❄️

• Fri, Nov 28: High 2°C, Low -1°C 🌥️

• Sat, Nov 29: High 1°C, Low -1°C 🌥️

• Sun, Nov 30: High 2°C, Low 0°C ❄️

• Mon, Dec 1: High -2°C, Low -3°C ❄️

• Tue, Dec 2: High -1°C, Low -4°C ❄️

• Wed, Dec 3: High 0°C, Low -5°C ☀️

Fun & Games

🎲 Would You Rather: Nutcracker Edition

Would you rather:
A) Dance as the Sugar Plum Fairy in a local production of "The Nutcracker".
B) Be the Nutcracker Prince and lead an army of toy soldiers.
C) Create a life-sized gingerbread house for the holiday season.
D) Organize a magical holiday market inspired by the Land of Sweets.

➡️ Hit reply with your pick and we'll tally the favourites 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