Good morning, Markham!
I was thinking about Markville Mall the other day and how many stores have come and gone over the years: Hot Topic, Victoria’s Secret, Old Navy, Little Burgundy… and honestly, let’s hope the list doesn’t get any longer. Change can be a little scary, but one thing that hasn’t changed is how much there is happening around our community.
So on that positive note, let’s take a look at what’s going on in Markham and nearby this week!
CITY UPDATES
Planning a recycling drop-off?
Please note that all recycling depots will be closed on Monday, February 16. Check the City of Markham website for regular hours and the depot closest to you.
Want to help guide Markham’s growth and sustainability?
Consider volunteering on a City committee or advisory board. Current opportunities include:
Design Review Panel (Urban Designer, Landscape Architect, Architect)
Markham Environmental Advisory Committee
Submit your application by February 27, 2026 here.
Mount Joy GO: Tree Removals Beginning Mid-February
From as early as February 16 to March 31, 2026 (weekdays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.), Metrolinx crews will remove about 190 trees along the rail corridor to prepare for future second-track and platform work. Nearby residents may see crews in the area and experience some construction noise and vibration.
FEATURED EVENT: LunarFest GTA - Brave the Wind
Located at Varley Art Gallery (216 Main St Unionville, Unionville, ON L3R 2H1)
Date/Time: February 21 - 22, from 10am - 5pm
Cost: Free
Address: Varley Art Gallery (216 Main St Unionville, Unionville, ON L3R 2H1)
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Varley Art Gallery! Join us for two days of fun craft workshops, youth songwriting sessions, lively performances, and engaging family activities for all ages!
Lunar Lanterns will light up the new year, featuring work by six local and international artists. The exhibition begins Feb 21 at the Varley Art Gallery Courtyard and runs through March 20.
Reflect on how cultural traditions are practiced and transformed in a diverse society at the Lion Dancing panel discussion on Feb 21.
WHAT’S HAPPENING MARKHAM: THIS WEEK’S EVENTS
LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVITIES
🌙 Lunar New Year Activities at Promenade Shopping Centre
Promenade Shopping Centre, Thornhill, ON ➡️
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 12–2pm | 🎟️ Free
Celebrate Lunar New Year with a lively lion dance starting at T&T Supermarket and parading through the mall to Centre Court for a festive cultural experience.
🧧 Lunar New Year Business Expo & Networking (Ward 6)
Langstaff Community Centre, Richmond Hill, ON ➡️
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 11am–5pm | 🎟️ Free
Drop by this community-focused Lunar New Year expo featuring local businesses, networking opportunities, cultural entertainment, and 18 vendor booths.
💖 Linkon Luck and Love
Cummer Avenue United Church, Toronto, ON ➡️
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 11am–6pm | 🎟️ Free
A playful Lunar New Year and Valentine-themed market featuring local vendors, photo ops, crafts, games, and interactive activities.
🧧 Chinese New Year Party at Studio 28
Studio 28, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 6–11:30pm | 🎟️ $48
Ring in the Lunar New Year with a festive evening featuring a lucky meal, open mic performances, and a lively singing competition in a fun, social atmosphere.
🧧 Lunar New Year Celebration with MPP Logan Kanapathi
Xinflix Media, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | Doors 1pm • Event 2pm | 🎟️ Free
Join MPP Logan Kanapathi for a community Lunar New Year gathering featuring cultural performances along with complimentary food and drinks in a festive, welcoming atmosphere.
🐲 Lunar New Year at CF Markville — Awaken the Year of the Horse
CF Markville, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 2pm | 🎟️ Free
Gather at Centre Court for a ceremonial eye-dotting to awaken the lion and dragon, followed by festive dance performances and a chance to spot the God of Fortune handing out red envelopes.
🧧 Lunar New Year at Markham Museum
Markham Museum, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 10am–4pm | 🎟️ Free (donations encouraged; gallery admission extra)
Family-friendly Lunar New Year celebration with hands-on crafts, calligraphy, mahjong, and cultural activities for all ages. **THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
🧧 Lunar New Year Celebration
Pacific Mall, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 1–4pm | 🎟️ Free
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 1–5pm | 🎟️ Free
Celebrate Lunar New Year with a grand opening ceremony, festive door-to-door lion dances, and traditional green-picking performances throughout the mall.
🥞 Mardi Gras Pancake Supper 2026
Grace Church Markham, Markham, ON
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 5:30–7pm | 🎟️ $10–$15 (Kids 5 & under free • Family $50)
Enjoy a festive Mardi Gras evening with pancakes, community fun, and family-friendly celebration — a casual supper event with pricing options for kids, adults, seniors, and families.
🎿 Après Ski 2: Electric Boogaloo
Unionville Arms Pub & Grill, Markham, ON
Friday, February 20, 2026 | From 8pm
A high-energy winter party with a live DJ, fire pit vibes, drink specials, $5 shooters, and big giveaways — including ski gear and a snowboard — built for a lively night out.
❄️ Ice Lounge on Main
Main Street South, Newmarket, ON ➡️
Friday, February 20, 2026 | 12–10pm | 🎟️ Free
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 12–10pm | 🎟️ Free
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 12–5pm | 🎟️ Free
Enjoy a pedestrian-friendly winter festival with food, drinks, ice sculptures, live music, art, and seasonal fun along Main Street.
💬 Richmond Hill Speed Dating (Ages 45–59)
Moxies Beaver Creek Restaurant, Richmond Hill, ON ➡️
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 6:30–8:30pm | 🎟️ $45–$59
Meet local singles in a relaxed, face-to-face setting with a series of short conversations designed to spark real connections — a fun, low-pressure alternative to dating apps.
🍵 Plain Tea and Murukku Social
Markham Public Library - Aaniin Branch, Markham, ON
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 3–4:30pm | 🎟️ Free
Drop in for tea, snacks, and relaxed games like cards, Ludo, and carrom while connecting with other older adults at this friendly community gathering, hosted with the Federation of Tamil Canadians and Boxgrove Wellness Club.
♟️ Chess Game Night @ SUGAR
SUGAR Café & Lounge, Richmond Hill, ON ➡️
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 7pm–12am | 🎟️ $10 minimum food/drink spend
Drop in for a casual chess night with live DJ beats, open play for all skill levels, small prizes throughout the evening, and plenty of food and drinks to keep the games going.
🏓 Dinks ’n’ Donuts: Pickleball Social
Mount Joy Sports Dome, Markham, ON
Monday, February 23, 2026 | 9–11am | 🎟️ $10
Start your morning with a friendly pickleball meetup — a relaxed social session to play, connect, and enjoy some lighthearted competition on the courts.
SHOWTIME IN MARKHAM
🎭 Matilda The Musical
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham, ON
February 19–22, 2026 | Hours vary | 🎟️ $30-$35
Follow the magical story of Matilda Wormwood — a brilliant young girl with extraordinary powers — in this lively stage production by Unionville Theatre Company, featuring music, dance, and a cast of local performers.
🎻 KCSO: Orchestral Tribute to K-Pop Demon Hunters
The Salvation Army (25 Centre Ave), North York, Toronto, ON ➡️
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 7–8pm | 🎟️ $17.55
Experience the Korean Canadian Symphony Orchestra performing orchestral arrangements inspired by K-Pop Demon Hunters, blending symphonic sound with high-energy K-pop vibes for a unique live concert night.
😂 Hot As Heck Comedy Tour
Rouge River Brewing Company, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | Doors 7pm • Show 7:30–9pm | 🎟️ Ticketed
Catch three of Canada’s hottest rising comedians for a one-night stand-up showcase, featuring acts with credits from Just For Laughs Toronto, CBC, and JFL42. **THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
🎬 Markham At The Movies presents - It Was Just an Accident
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham, ON
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 7–9pm | 🎟️ $15
Watch the Palme d’Or–winning drama about former prisoners confronting a man they believe was their torturer, sparking a tense moral dilemma around justice and revenge.
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ARTS & CULTURE
🌷 Tulipmania Potted Bulbs Demo + Workshop
Kate’s Garden, Markham, ON
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 7–8:30pm | 🎟️ $30
Learn creative ways to style fresh and potted tulips, then build your own take-home arrangement.
🖤 Heritage in Motion: Black History Reflected Through Chinese-Jamaican Identity
Markham Village Library, Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 11am–12pm | 🎟️ Free
Listen to Hakka-Jamaican storyteller and influencer Jephina share personal stories exploring dual heritage, cultural identity, and how our roots shape who we become — an engaging session for families and adults alike.
🎨 Richmond Art and Craft 2026
Mill Pond Park, Richmond Hill, ON ➡️
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 10am–5pm | 🎟️ Free
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 10am–5pm | 🎟️ Free
Browse a vibrant outdoor market featuring handmade art, jewelry, home décor, and gifts, plus live creative demos, local food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.
🐾 Markham Animal Adoption Event
Thornhill Community Centre and Library, Thornhill, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 10am–6pm
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 10am–6pm
Meet adoptable animals and learn about local rescue efforts at this adoption event run in partnership with the Ontario SPCA, helping more pets find safe, loving homes in York Region.
📮 Toronto Postcard Club Show
Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, Toronto, ON ➡️
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 10am–4pm | 🎟️ $10 (cash)
Browse Canada’s largest vintage postcard show, featuring 30 vendor tables and thousands of collectible cards — perfect for history buffs, collectors, and lovers of nostalgic imagery.
🔮 Two Nights of Tarot Readings
Eight On Main Boutique, Markham, ON
Friday, February 20, 2026 | 5:30–9:30pm | 🎟️ $40 (30-min reading)
Friday, February 27, 2026 | 5:30–9:30pm | 🎟️ $40 (30-min reading)
Spend an evening gaining insight through a one-on-one tarot session with intuitive guide Esther Rabinovitch, offering reflective, empowering readings focused on clarity and self-awareness.
FOR THE KIDS
🧸 Scarborough Moms & Minis Indoor Playground Play Date
Kira Kids Café, Markham, ON
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | 11am–1pm | 🎟️ Admission applies ($4.99–$22.99 + $7.99 adult)
A casual midweek meetup where moms can chat and unwind while little ones explore the indoor playground, play, and make new friends in a safe, kid-friendly space.
💻 How to Manage Anxiety in Children
Online Event by Markham Public Library
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 6:30–7:30pm | 🎟️ Free
An interactive parent workshop offering practical strategies to understand childhood anxiety, spot triggers, and respond in ways that help calm — using DBT-informed and solution-focused techniques.
📖 Author Storytime and Activity with Camellia Koo
Markham Public Library - Milliken Mills Branch Markham, ON
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 1–2pm | 🎟️ Free
Enjoy a special live reading with author and set designer Camellia Koo, followed by interactive activities for kids and families to join in the fun.
📚 Empowerment & Career Training Session for Parents
Markham Public Library - Aaniin Branch, Markham, ON
Monday, February 23, 2026 | 6–8pm | 🎟️ Free
Join this mentorship-focused evening hosted by YPAM and Computek College, offering practical guidance on children’s education, literacy, confidence-building, and exploring new career directions.
BUSINESS BOOST
📱 From Zero to Viral: Social Media Tips for Young Professionals
Online Event by Markham Public Library
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 6–7pm | 🎟️ Free
Pick up practical strategies to grow your online presence, showcase your skills, and connect with the right audience — especially helpful for those starting out in sports, recreation, or related fields.
🤝 Further Together: For Agents, By Agents
Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa, Markham, ON
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 10am–1pm | 🎟️ $33.40
Connect with fellow real estate professionals at this collaborative meetup, focused on sharing insights, building relationships, and growing your business in a supportive setting.
💰 Financial Assistance for Permanent Residents
Online Event by Markham Public Library
Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 6–7:30pm | 🎟️ Free
Learn about key federal and Ontario financial support programs available to permanent residents, with guidance on navigating benefits, managing expenses, and building financial stability in Canada.
🥉 CONGRATULATIONS, PAUL POIRIER & PIPER GILLES!
Congratulations to Markham’s own Paul Poirier and his skating partner, Piper Gilles, on their outstanding achievement and continued success on the international stage. Your dedication and performances make our community proud!
Canadian ice dancers Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier earned their first Olympic medal, taking bronze at the Milano Cortina 2026.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Here’s a sneak peek at some events coming up next week! Stay tuned for more details in upcoming editions of Hello Markham.
Nobis Sale | February 27-March 1 | 9am-6pm | 🎟️ Free
The Luxury Cosmetics Warehouse Sale | February 27-March 8 | 🎟️ Free
Line Dancing Social | February 26 | 7pm-10:30pm | 🎟️ $28.25
Stars Hollow Trivia Night | February 25 | 7pm-9pm | 🎟️ $20
Ladies Night at AK Golf Studio | February 27 | 7:30pm-9:30pm | 🎟️ $20-$60
FCCM Chinese Culture Celebration | February 28 | 11am-6pm | 🎟️ Free
WEEKLY MUSIC & SPORTS
LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN
🎤 Fiona MacCool’s Richmond Hill | Open Mic | February 17th | 7PM-10PM
🎤 The Duchess of Markham | Open Mic | February 19th | 8PM-11PM
🎤 Main’s Mansion | Karaoke | February 19th | 10PM to Close
🎤 Col. Mustard Sports Bar | Karaoke | February 20th | Begins at 9PM
🎵 Rouge River Brewery | Ruby Tuesday | February 20th | 7PM_9PM
🎤 The Duchess of Markham | Open Mic | February 20th | 8PM-11PM
🎤 Monte Carlo Inn | Open Mic | February 20th | 7PM-10PM
🎵 The Duchess of Markham | Live Music | February 21st | Begins at 4PM
🎤 Main’s Mansion | Karaoke | February 21st | 10PM to Close
🎤 Rouge River Brewery | Open Jam | February 22nd | 2PM-5PM
🎵 Costa Sorrento | Giordano Cattonar | February 22nd | 6PM-9PM
SPORTS HAPPENIN’S NEXT WEEK
🏀 Toronto Raptors v Oklahoma City Thunder | February 24th
🎾 Goodfellow Classic Day 1 | February 24th
🏀 Toronto Raptors v San Antonio Spurs | February 25th
🎾 Goodfellow Classic Day 2 | February 25th
🎾 Goodfellow Classic Day 3 | February 26th
🎾 Goodfellow Classic Day 4 | February 27th
🎾 Goodfellow Classic Day 5 | February 28th
THANKS FOR READING!
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