Toronto 
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Toronto is marking its fifth anniversary with a weekend of free admission and a lineup of engaging events from Friday, November 10, to Sunday, November 12.
Credit: Museum of Contemporary Art
Since its relocation to Sterling Road in 2018, MOCA has aimed to become a cultural epicenter within Toronto’s art scene, and this celebration reflects the institution’s remarkable growth, innovation, and collaborative spirit.
Highlights of activities:
MOCA’s fifth-anniversary weekend promises an enriching and celebratory experience for all, highlighting the museum’s remarkable journey and its commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement.
FIVE YEARS – Thursday, November 9, 6:30 pm
The festivities kick off with “FIVE YEARS,” a glamorous birthday party and fundraiser on November 9th. This event not only celebrates MOCA’s achievements over the past half-decade but also highlights the dynamic creative community that has grown around the museum.
Free Friday Nights powered by Scotiabank – Friday, November 10, 5–9 pm
On November 10th, MOCA invites visitors to enjoy “Free Friday Night” powered by Scotiabank, offering free access to the museum. Guests can explore Phyllida Barlow’s anti-monumental sculptures in “Eleven Columns” and uncover the nuanced details within Liz Magor’s “The Separation.” Additionally, the “Dancing in The Light” exhibition in The Wedge Collection will be open for exploration.
Family Drop-In Workshop – Saturday, November 11, 12–4 pm
Families are encouraged to join MOCA on November 11th for a day of kid-friendly activities celebrating five years of community-focused workshops. Participants can engage in commemorative and celebratory themes, including creating their own party hats.
Drop-In Exhibition Tours – Saturday, November 11, 2 pm and 4 pm
MOCA offers drop-in exhibition tours on November 11th, providing visitors with insights into the current exhibitions featuring Phyllida Barlow, Liz Magor, and The Wedge Collection. These tours reveal behind-the-scenes details about the artists and their artworks on display.
MOCA After Hours – Saturday, November 11, 8–11 pm ($20)
On Saturday evening, MOCA will host an After Hours party to celebrate its 5th anniversary and the opening of its fall exhibitions. The event will feature performances by The Drag Academy, a live DJ, and signature cocktails.
Curator’s Tour with Rui Mateus Amaral – Sunday, November 12, 2 pm
MOCA’s Senior Adjunct Curator, Rui Mateus Amaral, will lead an intimate, behind-the-scenes exhibition tour on November 12th. This tour focuses on Phyllida Barlow’s “Eleven Columns” and Liz Magor’s “The Separation,” offering insights into the artists’ practices, creative processes, and the development of their exhibitions.
DJ Performance by Tender Buttons – Sunday, November 12, 3–5 pm
Sunday afternoon will feature a two-hour DJ performance by Toronto-based artist Tender Buttons, known for their multi-dimensional artistic practices rooted in cinema, sound, and poetics.
Drop-In Exhibition Tour – Sunday, November 12, 4 pm
Concluding the weekend celebration, a drop-in exhibition tour on November 12th will provide visitors with a more in-depth experience of MOCA’s fall exhibitions, offering additional information about the artists and their showcased artworks.
