The Nest: a free show, then the elevator upstairs

What is on?

Both bands come with a short note from the operator. Desire is described as a high-energy U2 tribute with the stadium anthems. Fleetwood Mac Mania is a Canadian band based in Toronto, formed around 2007, that covers both Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks's solo work. We only list dates that the operator has published; when new ones appear, we add them.

How does a free show work here?

Doors open 30 minutes before each set. There is no cover charge, so there are no tickets to buy; seating is first come, first served. With two sets on the same Saturday, you can choose: the 4 p.m. set leaves the whole evening for dinner in Port Perry, and the 7 p.m. set fits after an early meal at Water's Edge. If you care about a good seat, arrive at the door when it opens rather than at showtime.

Can we bring a bag?

Only a small one. The operator's entertainment venue rules allow no bags or backpacks except small clutches, no larger than 5 × 12 × 18 cm, or clear bags up to 8 × 35 × 35 cm. Inspection at the door is possible. Leave the day pack in the room; that is one of the quiet advantages of staying in the building.

How big is the hall?

The Nest covers 12,637 square feet, with a total capacity of close to 800 people. The layout changes with the event: banquet tables, theatre rows or a standing crowd. The ceiling is an open grid about 4.4 metres high, which the venue says makes it easy to hang lighting and sound. There is a fully stocked bar. When it opened in January 2024, the general manager called it another reason to visit the property, and so far the free tribute nights are exactly that.

Why stay the night for a free show?

Because the show is free and the drive is not short. A 7 p.m. set ends at 8 p.m.; by the time you are back in Toronto it is close to ten. Staying means a late dinner, a walk in the cold air by the lake on Sunday morning and no one stuck as the designated driver. The operator's own event pages make the same suggestion, in fewer words: stay the night, the rooms are steps from the hall.

Are all events free?

The ones currently listed for The Nest are. The hall is also rented for private events, corporate functions and wedding receptions, which of course are not open to the public. See meetings and parties if you are planning one.

Show weekends fill the hotel faster than ordinary Saturdays. If you have a date in mind, send the request early and mention the show; our desk checks rooms first.