It’s that time of the year again –time for Toronto to turn into a city-wide gallery. The 20^th annual Nuit Blanche takes place today, October 1^st, from sunset to sunrise and is free for all who attend. Sure, the forecast calls for a sprinkle of rain, but put on a poncho or hide under an umbrella because this is one event you won’t want to miss. Since 2006, Nuit Blanche has featured contemporary art that captivates audiences and communicates numerous messages through just as many media and materials. This year promises to be no different – so grab a coffee, some friends, and head out on your journey.

If you’re in for spa services on Saturday or happen to find yourself in our neighbourhood (near Yonge and Dundas), here are 5 exhibits that are worth viewing in the area:

Invite yourself to “Invictus 360°”: Located right at Yonge-Dundas square, the space celebrates the 1-year countdown to the Invictus Games. You can take part in the construction of a sculpture titled “I AM”, while also watching muralist David Arrigo depict the journey of Invictus games athletes. To be hosted by Toronto in 2017, the games have been founded by Prince Harry to support men and women from the military service who are either wounded, sick, or injured.

Make it down to “MULTIPLEX”: In case you need to take a break from the rain, head over to MULTIPLEX –located inside OCAD. This is a film and video marathon, presented throughout numerous rooms and with various sounds, texts, and images. Adding to this variety is the mode in which you can view them—from kicking back in theaters to trying to stay awake at slumber parties, the choice is yours!

Leave with a Book from “Literature vs. Traffic”: Books take over Toronto roads with “Literature vs. Traffic” by Luzinterruptus. On a stretch of street near Old City Hall, books donated by the Salvation Army will form a river that, in taking over public space, symbolizes the power of words. At the end of the night, anyone can take home one or more of the books.

Look up to “Ocean”: Created with recycled textiles from H&M’s Garment Collecting Initiative,  Ocean will transform the City Hall rotunda into an underwater space. The combination of textures, sounds, and lights are sure to transport visitors to another realm –far away from downtown Toronto’s hustle and bustle.

Slither over to “The Rainbow Serpent”: Nestled in between Osgoode Hall and the University Avenue Courthouse, this kinetic sculpture of an Australian water spirit by Zzilla sheds lights on the abundance of water in Canada, as well as its value and importance.

We’re sure that whether you stop by at just a few exhibits or check out the whole city, this is one thing you won’t mind staying up late for. Just be sure to wear the comfiest shoes you own! To make things easier, certain lines on the TTC and GO Transit will be operating on an extended schedule.

For more information on this year’s Nuit Blanche, click here. If you would like to view an interactive map, you can find it by clicking here.