Hello, 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:

📉 Etobicoke Rents Drop – One-bedroom rents see a 3.4% year-over-year decline
🏗️ Nine-Tower Proposal – A massive redevelopment could transform South Etobicoke
☀️ CampTO is Back – Summer camp registration opens soon
🎟️ Big Lottery Wins – Etobicoke claims a share of Ontario’s billion-dollar jackpot haul
🍽️ Winterlicious Returns – 14 Etobicoke restaurants serving up prix fixe menus

Plus, your weekly weather forecast and a joke to brighten your day!

THE DIGEST

📉 Rents Take a Dip 📉

Etobicoke renters are catching a small break, as one-bedroom rents have decreased 3.4% year-over-year to an average of $2,197 in January 2025. Two-bedroom units have also seen a slight decline, down 1.6% year-over-year to $2,775. While still a significant expense, the drop bucks the trend seen in many nearby areas. Etobicoke continues to attract renters with its balance of suburban charm and urban convenience, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to downtown Toronto. Nationally, rents for one-bedroom units range from $1,223 to $2,512, with Vancouver holding the top spot for the priciest rental market.

🏗️ Nine Towers, One Big Transformation for South Etobicoke 🌆

Big changes could be coming to 350 Evans Avenue near Kipling and the Gardiner. A new proposal is eyeing nine towers (yes, nine) ranging from 12 to 42 storeys, bringing over 4,600 residential units to South Etobicoke. The mixed-use plan also includes retail, a daycare, and a new public park. If approved, this project would add serious density and help revamp the neighborhood into a pedestrian-friendly hub. Stay tuned—this one’s still under review.

☀️ CampTO is Back: Summer Registration Drops Soon ☀️

The City has released its full CampTO lineup for summer 2025, giving parents a chance to plan ahead before registration opens on February 5 at 7 a.m. With over 140 locations and programs ranging from sports and arts to nature-based activities, spots in the most popular camps tend to go fast. Specialized CampTO Plus options include drama, science, and circus skills, while Counsellor-In-Training programs help teens gain hands-on experience. Since the registration system changed last year, parents are encouraged to set up accounts and wish lists early to avoid missing out.

🎟️ Etobicoke Cashes In on Ontario’s Billion-Dollar Lottery Wins 🎟️

Ontario lottery players took home over $1.15 billion in Lotto Max and Lotto 6/49 prizes in 2024, according to OLG. Lotto Max players saw the biggest payouts, winning $911 million, while Lotto 6/49 players claimed $212 million in prizes. The largest win was an $80-million jackpot, split between tickets sold in Owen Sound and Quebec. Among Ontario’s biggest winners, Etobicoke had a $65-million ticket, while Milton and Toronto also saw massive jackpots. With a $50-million Lotto Max draw and an $18-million Gold Ball jackpot coming up this week, 2025 could be just as lucky.

🍽️ Winterlicious is Back – Here’s How to Feast in Etobicoke 🍽️

A tasty tradition returns from January 31 to February 13, and Etobicoke foodies have plenty to dig into. More than 230 restaurants across the GTA, including 14 here in Etobicoke, are serving up three-course prix fixe menus at different price points, making it the perfect excuse to try something new or revisit a local favorite. Reservations open January 16, and with top spots booking fast, it’s worth planning ahead. Whether you’re looking for cozy comfort food, upscale dining, or a hidden gem, the full list of participating restaurants and menus is now available online.

Upcoming Events & Happenings

• Jan. 18th - Shania Twain Tribute Show
  Long Branch Social House | 3595 Lakeshore Blvd. W
  Featuring performer Adrianna Marcucci. Entrance: $10-15. Starts at 7:30.
  

• Jan. 26th - Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra presents The Great Sing-Off
  Humber Valley United Church | 76 Anglesey Blvd.
  A listen’n’learn, no-intermission matinee for all ages exploring 'soul music' in symphony and spoken word. Special guest artist Craig Doyle. Kids under 12: $10. Adults: $20. Tickets can be purchased through the Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra. Starts at 2p.
  

• Jan. 30th - Watercolour Winter Cityscape Art Night
  Arts Etobicoke | 4893a Dundas Street W
  Paint a snowy Toronto street with Nora MacPhail at our January Art Night. This easy and fun watercolour workshop is perfect for all levels. Cost: $65. Age: 16+. From 6-8:30p.

• Through Jan. 2025 - Spectacle Exhibition by National Geographic

  CF Sherway Gardens | 25 The West Mall

  “Spectacle” is an exquisite photo exhibition that showcases an array of images that are as remarkable as they are unforgettable. Each image enlightens and inspires, allowing visitors to marvel at the diverse, complex, and truly remarkable planet on which we all live.
  

• Jan. 31sr through Feb.13th - Winterlicious
  Multiple locations
  Join the vibrant culinary scene. Over 230 restaurants, including 14 in Etobicoke, offer three-course prix fixe menus, featuring everything from traditional favourites to contemporary fusion and global flavours.
  

Weather

• Thursday, Jan. 16: High -4°C, Low -6°C ☁️

• Friday, Jan. 17: High 1°C, Low 0°C ☁️

• Saturday, Jan. 18: High 2°C, Low -9°C ❄️

• Sunday, Jan. 19: High -7°C, Low -12°C ☁️

• Monday, Jan. 20: High -12°C, Low -18°C 🌤️

• Tuesday, Jan. 21: High -15°C, Low -20°C 🌤️

• Wednesday, Jan. 22: High -16°C, Low -20°C 🌤️

Fun & Games

😂 Joke of the Week
What do you call fake spaghetti?
An impasta

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