1. YORK U JAZZ FEST (FREE!)
Catch the tail end of this York University music festival, which features 15 ensembles directed by leading players on the Canadian jazz scene. With a lineup of large and small groups of up-and-comers, this is the perfect way to get a sneak peek at the next generation of artists. Friday night’s show features the York University Jazz Orchestra, led by Al Henderson and Mike Cadó. May 8. York University, Accolade East Building, 4700 Keele St., yorku.ca/finearts/music/events.

2. TORONTO COMIC ARTS FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Going well beyond the Marvel vs. DC debate, the Toronto Comic Arts Festival is billed as a “unique comics event.” It features two full days of readings, presentations, panel discussions, gallery shows and an exhibit area where fans can mingle with publishers, authors and artists. Big-name guests include Gregory Gallant (more commonly known as Seth), Craig Yoe, Kid Koala and Scott McCloud. May 9 and 10. Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge St., 416-533-9168, torontocomics.com/tcaf.

3. SPIRIT OF TORONTO 2009
Despite the hundred-plus whiskies available for tasting, this annual gala keeps things classy. Admission includes whisky samples and cocktails, gourmet catering, food pairings, live jazz and an outdoor cigar bar. May 8. $115 in advance, $145 at the door. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St., spiritoftoronto.ca.

4. MOMS ROCK! (FREE!)
Celebrate Mom at this interdisciplinary event combining entertainment, kid-friendly activities and charities. The mainstage will host bands, poets, speeches and book readings throughout the afternoon, and the sale of flowers, T-shirts, books and CDs will benefit various charities. Kids will enjoy having their faces painted and making Mother’s Day cards. May 9. Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W., momsrock.info.

5. GROWN-UP SCIENCE FAIR (FREE!)
Geeks and those who love them will enjoy this science fair for grown-ups, which invites attendees to explore science through music, arts, games and crafts. Expect to poke around a computer’s innards, play periodic table twister and test your blood-alcohol level throughout the night. Stick around for the after party in the back room. May 9. The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W., treehousegroup.org.

6. SURREAL THINGS
This new AGO exhibit takes a second look at the relationship between 20th-century surrealists and the commercial fields they influenced. Through painting, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, furniture, fashion, film and photography, Surreal Things explores the movement’s progression from avant-garde to advertising. To August 30. $18. Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas St. W., 416-979-6648, ago.net.

7. SPRING BLOSSOM FEST (FREE!)
If the weekend’s goal is relaxation, this open-air festival is a good choice. Nature lovers will appreciate the 50-something fruit trees that will be in (or close to) full bloom, especially if they take advantage of horticulturist Wendy Woodward’s tour of the orchard (2 p.m.). Laid-back types can pack a picnic lunch and blanket and hang out among the trees while DJ Quim spins some tunes. May 10. Spadina Museum Orchard, 285 Spadina Rd., notfarfromthetree.org/events.

8. GIRLS AREN’T FUNNY
Vanity Fair writer Christopher Hitchens may think that women lack comedy chops, but local funny women Dana Alexander, of CTV’s Comedy Now and MuchMusic’s Video on Trial, Yuk Yuk’s comedian Kathleen McGee and honorary gal Andrew Johnston are out to prove him wrong with this evening of laughs. May 9. $12. Comedy Bar, 945B Bloor St. W., 647-898-5324, comedybar.ca.