Those interested in getting to know the city they call home a little better will have an opportunity to explore and interact within a number of both modern and historic locations in London this weekend.
The annual Doors Open London (DOL) weekend is back for its 21st year this Saturday and Sunday, with this year's theme being "Designing the Forest City".
Londoners who attend the event are encouraged to think about how design elements impact their lives, and will be able to do so while viewing various types of architecture across 34 sites that make up the city.
"We thought of this theme because we thought it would apply to many organizations across the board," said London Heritage Council Director Dhira Ghosh. "There's a design everywhere in our day-to-day lives and we don't realize it."
During the two-day event, participants will get an inside look at many of London's museums, heritage sites and community businesses.
Ghosh said there are several new venues to discover this year including HDR Architectural Associates Inc and the Brain and Mind Institute at Western University. She said the event will also feature "crowd favourites and little gems" such as the 1st Hussars Museum, the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, Banting House, Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, City Art Centre, Eldon House, Grosvenor Lodge, Jet Aircraft Museum and more.
"There's something in every neighbourhood. It's really an event for you to go and discover, almost rediscover, London," Ghosh said. "We always hear from people after the event [say] 'Oh, I didn't know this was in London.' So go out and enjoy and you'll learn something about London you didn't know before."
The event will feature attractions that may include walking tours, bus tours, theatrical pop-ups and musical programs.
"Every site is offering something that is unique to that site," Ghosh added.
The London Transit Commission (LTC) is making special DOL passes available over the weekend for those needing a way to get around the city, or for those who'd rather leave the car at home, at a cost of $5 each. The passes cover fares for up to four people (2 adults maximum, two children). Passes can be purchased at both LTC locations.
Entrance for DOL is free and each location will provide different activities and events to keep everyone entertained.
More information about each location included in this year's DOL event, including event and tour times, can be found on the London Heritage Council's website.
