I was bitten with the organising bug recently which prompted me to pour over two guidebooks—one on Toronto and the other on Canada in general—and find what was happening when. While a year might seem a long time, the possibility of missing something is there and then what? Gone. We’ll have one winter and maybe one and a half summers so being aware of what’s going on makes me feel calmer.

With that in mind, I made a spreadsheet. Glen helped too. There are…gulp…66 things on it. Some are time independent, like markets and gardens and attractions, whereas others (festivals, animal migrations etc) are fixed.

So, as a result of my compulsion, here are a few of the events that I’m hoping we’ll get to see at the right time.

Swimming with Beluga Whales in Churchill, Manitoba: That’s right, swimming with whales. How freaking awesome is that? The best time is between June and August.

Pride Week in Toronto, Ontario: Happening in June. We might be there for it when we first arrive or else we’ll catch it in 2014 when it’s World Pride too.

Polar Bears in Churchill, Manitoba: Looks like plenty of time in Manitoba a bit as you can also see the Northern Lights there between October and March. Polar Bears are between September and December.

Caribana in Toronto, Ontario: Latin American festival which sounds a heap of fun. Apparently there’ll be dancing in the streets.

Puffins and Whales in Witless Bay: More wildlife. Most of Newfoundland is supposed to be great for wildlife too. Puffins are down for June/July.

Quebec Carnaval: In February, great excuse to go to Quebec I think.

Well, that’s just a few. Plenty more on the list and I still have to put together my top ten.