Buddies in Bad Times Toronto
Dance party for the boys
When I first moved to Toronto, I wanted to explore the food scene, take in the cultural attractions… and I wanted to meet guys. And coming from a smallish town, I wanted to have the classic, full-on experience of the gay nightclub. The loud, dance-able music, the brightly coloured drinks, the sea of v-neck t-shirts… Buddies in Bad Times beckoned.
Buddies is a theatre by day, putting on plays with queer themes. But to raise money for their endeavours, on Saturday nights, they throw open their doors to the boys of the city. The cavernous theatre space is perfect for a giant, sweaty dance party.
The music is top 40, mixed with some classic diva tracks (Queen Madonna and her ilk), and everything is meant to be danced to. Have one too many vodka tonics, and you may find yourself up on the stage, making out with some gorgeous boy next to a drag queen belting out a disco version of “Wrecking Ball.” Not that I’ve ever experienced such a thing myself… I’ve just heard about it from friends…
I have my qualms with the place- the line can be very long, the space can be crowded, the bar is a bit small, and really, this place is high camp- bordering on almost TOO cliché. But, hey, you’re only in town for so long, and if you embrace it, it can be pure fun. Put on your tight and bright outfit, and get Into the Groove, darling.
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Toronto guide.
Cool place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Toronto
The Green Jar – A sweet sustainable shop
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Allan Gardens Conservatory – Ready for some green?
"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
By
Mauricio
Alas
Arcadia Earth – An inspiring, immersive experience
Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Arts Market – Great selection of artisanal gifts
From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
The Latest Scoop – Treasure trove for trend seekers
Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
A Different Booklist – A bookstore for better
A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Karma Co-op – A co-op for the conscious consumer
Somewhat tucked away in the Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, this sweet shop welcomes you with a selection of locally made baked goods you can take to-go.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Ecotique – Great for eco-friendly goods and gifts
I’ve bought a bunch here, from seed bombs to sustainable swaps like planet-friendly nail polish, and a pair of mittens made from old sweaters!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Pretty Clean Shop – A sustainable & stunning shop
There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Coal Miner's Daughter – Canadian clothing and more
Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Brodawka & Friends – Sweet store for grabbing gifts
I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Broadview Espresso – Comfy coffee corner
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
By