A Bridgerton-Esque January in Oshawa

Dear Gentle Reader,

It’s a new year! Perhaps it is because I was born in January that I have always felt it a time of luxury, indulgence and resetting. As we go back to work adorning all of our holiday gifts, there is newness in the air.

January is also when we can look forward to the latest season of the hit Netflix show, Bridgerton. Divided into two parts, the worldwide release of Season 4’s A-side is scheduled for January 29th, with the back half becoming available on Feb 26. While I reminisce on some of my favourites, such as the debonaire Duke of Hastings, the ethereal Kate Sharma, the ever-gorgeous Penelope Featherington, and the spectacular Viscount Antony, I am excited to see how I can tour around Oshawa to recreate some of my favourite elements of the hotly anticipated show. Romance isn’t only for February. This January, treat the Capricorns and Aquarians in your life to some Bridgerton-equesue date spots.

Lori’s Hearts and Flowers, Oshawa’s lovingly local florist.

One of my favourite elements of the show is the scenery. How they use flowers and colour to create an air of whimsy is so magical to watch. Check out Flowers by Veronika (650 King Street East), or Lori’s Hearts and Flowers (1300 King Street East, Unit 13) to get your bouquets or bundles. The third Monday in January is commonly known as “Blue Monday” because it is the time of year when winter has taken its toll on people’s moods. If you are looking for a boost this season, or to simply beautify your space, check out Oshawa’s florists.

Sweet delicacies and a touch of luxury at the Lobby Bar, 70 King Street East.

Once you have your lilacs, hyacinth, or carnations, check out Lobby Bar (70 King Street East) for some afternoon tea. Their menu offers scones with clotted cream and a berry jam, savoury delights such as turkey, cranberry and herb aioli on brioche, or a smoked salmon, cucumber and dill profiterole, sweets like a dark chocolate hazelnut truffle, and optional mulled wine. If you are hosting some out-of-town friends this wintery month, Lobby Bar is the perfect place to find comfort, warmth, and some luxury.

The Neighbour’s Project installation at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, February 2024.

Next, if you are in the mood to take in some arts and culture, relishing in the galleries we sometimes see members of Mayfair frequent, check out The Neighbourhood Art Hive with the LivingRoom Community Arts Studio, hosted at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery. From January 9th to February 13, the RMG come see what your neighbours are doing, and make something meaningful. I was at the opening of this exhibition, and must say it was very well attended, and expertly supported. This is the kind of collaborative and interactive art I don’t always get to do when I’m at galleries in Toronto. There is something much more grounded about this kind of artistry coming from Oshawa. Have some tea then check it out!

A Bridgerton-esque experience wouldn’t be complete without a ball. On January 24th, Parkwood Lodge is hosting a Mardi Gras Night (Oshawa Masonic Hall, 91 Centre Street South). Starting at 6pm, patrons are encouraged to “Dress up in your most festive attire and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Let the good times roll as we celebrate in style.” Bring a group of friends, or just you and the special someone you are courting this season, and fill your dance card. There are perks to being a wallflower, but it is always more fun to be right in the middle of all the action!

A celebration of love and design at the Wedding Ring Expo, Oshawa Wedding Expo.

If your debut has gone well and you have made a love match, there is sure to be a grand event! Head to the Oshawa Wedding Expo on January 31st (Harmony Event Centre, 1011 Bloor Street East) from 11am–3pm to meet local wedding professionals, get design or décor inspiration, and check out the photobooths. You can pre-book your spot for free, or pay a $33.90 ticket fee to skip the line, get perks, and win prizes. Engaged couples get a free swag bag and can enter for their chance to win over $20,000 in prizes, including an all-inclusive honeymoon in Mexico! On the day of the event, there is also a draw for $1,000. Organizers add that 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC couples are welcome and included. This is an expo you do not want to miss! Bring your entourage, even if that includes some meddling mamas, and get the most out of planning your big day.

A classic taste of spring: pancakes and real maple syrup at Purple Woods Conservation Area.

If the hustle and bustle of a city is less your speed and you prefer an escape to a cottage or to immerse yourself in nature, check out Purple Woods (38 Coates Road East). This conservation area includes accessible trails, a sugar shack, and amazing southern sights. While you are enjoying the view from the Oak Ridges Moraine, you can get lost in your own quiet contemplation. Purple Woods hosts events such as snowshoeing, a sugar bush lantern walk, a Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk and Tea, or a Summer Solstice Firefly Hike. Sign up for their newsletter to plan your next voyage away.

Even though January can feel like kind of a lull, there are still things we can do to feel like a diamond. Oshawa has an array of attractions that are sure to inspire romance, coziness, and celebration. Whether you want to be the talk of the town or not, Oshawa is bustling with hot spots that are sure to draw a crowd.