NOW critics pick the best virtual events happening in Toronto and beyond this winter. DesignTO Kicking off with an online party featuring Maylee Todd, and DJs Fly Lady Di and Sigourney Beaver, the annual design festival is going “distanced and digital.” That means there will be 30 virtual digital projects (both free and ticketed), as well as window displays around town. Panels will focus on the city of Detroit, inclusive design and whether Canada needs a national architecture policy. • Hot Docs Podcast Festival Hot Docs’ annual weekend of aural pleasure might be limited to streaming this year, but the 2021 edition will still endeavour to expand the experience and appreciation of audio storytelling, offering Q&As with creators and hosts from shows like Pod Save America, Radio-lab, 99% Invisible and Reply All. (We’re looking forward to Pop Chat’s Elamin Abdelmahmoud and You’re Wrong About’s Sarah Marshall discussing the rise of pop-culture nostalgia.) •