Toronto 
Searching for free events, festivals or free places to visit and things to do this summer in Toronto? Here is a list of FREE family-friendly events every day this summer in Toronto and the GTA.
Credit: To Do Canada
Have the best Toronto staycation, and have a blast credit-card free!
FREE Family Fun Activities For Every Day This Summer in Toronto – 2026
- The events and attractions listed are free for everybody. Places to visit that are free for kids with paying adults, like Canada Strong Pass, are not mentioned.
- Rib Fests and food festivals with free admission, but where you need to pay for most of the activities, are mostly NOT (except those with cultural events) mentioned.
- There are quite a lot of free movies (mostly PG/PG-13) and concerts happening across GTA parks almost every day. These are not listed! For a detailed list, see Free Concerts and Outdoor Movies this Summer in the GTA.
- For another option for cheap summer staycations, see Day Trips From Toronto
- Some famous PWYC events are included.
How to use this article:
- Festivals that span 2-3 days are listed under any one of the festival dates or on the day with free programming.
- Free attractions and activities that are not date-bound or time-limited are listed under ‘Random Dates’ (these can be completed on any date of your choosing).
- For up-to-date information on free events, we also recommend checking our Things to Do weekend article or Free Events Calendar.
For more fun activities, see:
- 25 Family Getaways from Toronto
- Summer activities in Mississauga
- Summer in Brampton
- Summer in Durham
- Summer in Richmond Hill
- Summer in Halton
- Summer in Hamilton
- Summer in Markham
Friday, June 26, 2026
World Cup Festivals & Watch Parties
Around the city, you can join various watch parties from FIFA Fan Festival Toronto, adidas Home of Soccer Toronto, Midtown Kickoff, Canada Soccer House, and many more!
Until July 19, 2026 @ Various Venues, GTA
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Family Pride
Head to Church Street for Family Pride. With programming geared to children ages 0-12 and their families, everyone will feel like a kid while taking in activities ranging from sports to crafts, face painting and storytime and extra special performances.
June 27 to 28, 2026 @ Church Street Junior Public School, 83 Alexander Street, Toronto
Taste of Asia
Each summer, Markham brings together dazzling cultural performances, culinary artists, iconic celebrities, dignitaries, sports fans, artisans and food connoisseurs. This year’s event will fill the streets with three days of non-stop multicultural performances for families and friends.
June 26 to 28, 2026 @ Kennedy Rd., Markham
Whitchurch-Stouffville Strawberry Festival
This free 3-day event will feature delicious food, local market vendors, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages.
June 26 to 28, 2026 @ Stouffville Memorial Park, 2 Park Dr, Whitchurch-Stouffville
Sunday, June 28, 2026
Taste of Ghana
Enjoy a one-day, family-friendly celebration filled with authentic Ghanaian food, music, fashion, dance, art, and storytelling. Explore over 40 local vendors offering everything from jollof rice and kelewele to handmade crafts and textiles. Enjoy live performances, a kids’ play zone, cultural exhibits, and more.
June 28 @ YZD, 123 Garratt Blvd, North York
Monday, June 29, 2026
Go Fishing
Fish without a licence in Ontario Waters (not in National Parks).
June 27 – July 5, 2026 @ Ontario Waters
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Fringe Patio
Enjoy free programming during Toronto Fringe Festival. Enjoy The Patio will also feature free stage programming, including the Opening Party, Comedy Night, Fringe Artist Cabaret, Silent Disco, Awards Night, and more.
June 30- July 12, 2026 @ Distillery District, Toronto
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Canada Day
Celebrate Canada 159 at any of the GTA cities or towns and take your pick from one of the spectacular fireworks that brighten the night sky.
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Porch View Dances
PVD is a community dance festival that engages everyday people as creators, storytellers, and performers. PVD will take audiences on a walking tour of Seaton Village in Toronto’s Annex to experience new dance works created by professional choreographers.
July 1 to 5, 2026 @ Seaton Village, Toronto
Friday, July 3, 2026
Fun Philippines Toronto Street Festival
An unforgettable weekend of Filipino flavour, festive beats and non-stop fun for the whole family, the Fun Philippines Toronto Food and Music Festival is a high-energy celebration of Filipino culture, bringing together the Philippines’ culinary delights, musical traditions and artistic expressions.
July 3 to 5, 2026 @ Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
Saturday, July 4, 2026
1. Kothu Fest
Kothu Fest is a high-energy, one-day event that brings together over 18,000 attendees for an immersive experience of food, music, art, and culture.
July 4, 2026 @ Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Dr, Scarborough
2. Taste of the Middle East
Appreciate the vibrant art, music and dance that will surround you as you expand your palate and taste the 1001 flavours Middle Eastern culture has to offer.
July 3 to 5, 2026 @ Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Sunday, July 5, 2026
1. Taste of Lawrence
Enjoy Scarborough’s largest street festival; it boasts the most enticing flavours from every cultural community in the GTA.
July 3 to 5, 2026 @ Lawrence Ave. E. from Warden Ave. to Birchmount Rd., Toronto
2. Sounds of Leslieville
Sounds of Leslieville & Riverside is the official kick-off to the 38th Annual Beaches Jazz Festival – Toronto’s biggest, longest-running, free music event. All ages are invited to experience the joy of making connections through music!
July 3 to 5, 2026 @ Jimmie Simpson Park, 870 Queen St E, Toronto
Monday, July 6, 2026
Toronto History Museums Free Admission
All 10 Toronto History Museums are free to visit. Explore and learn about Toronto’s History.
Year Round @ Fort York National Historic Site, 250 Fort York Blvd.
Mackenzie House, 82 Bond St.
Market Gallery, 2nd Floor, St. Lawrence Market
Spadina Museum, 285 Spadina Road
Gibson House, 5172 Yonge St.
Zion Schoolhouse, 1091 Finch Avenue East
Scarborough Museum, 1007 Brimley Road
Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery Road
Colborne Lodge, 11 Colborne Lodge Dr.
Montgomery’s Inn, 4709 Dundas Street West
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat
Enjoy a self-guided tour, while learning about butterflies, native plants, urban conservation and migrating monarchs at the Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat located along the shores of Lake Ontario. Humber Bay Shores Park is listed as one of the top 13 spots to see birds in Toronto.
Year-round @ Humber Bay Shores Park, 15 Marine Parade Dr, Toronto.
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Art Gallery of Ontario
Admission to the AGO is free on the first Wednesday night of each month. The Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, attracting approximately one million visitors annually. The AGO Collection of more than 120,000 works of art ranges from cutting-edge contemporary art to significant works by Indigenous and Canadian artists to European masterpieces.
First Wednesdays | 6pm – 9pm. (July’s first Wednesday deal is on July 8) @ Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto
Learn to Bowl
West Toronto Lawn Bowling Club opens up the greens for a free Learn to Bowl night – no experience, no equipment, no stuffy dress codes required. Just show up, and they’ll take care of the rest.
Wednesdays, various times @ West Toronto Lawn Bowling Club, 275 Keele St, Toronto
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Union Summer
Right outside Union Station in downtown Toronto, there will be nonstop programming, which includes music from Toronto’s hottest DJs, Blue Jays game screenings, games nights and so much more!
Until August 9, 2026 @ Union Station Plaza, 65 Front St West, Toronto
Friday, July 10, 2026
Family Fest
This energetic celebration of young audiences (and the young at heart) will feature a variety of different performances, workshops and activities perfect for every member of the family. From circus performers to puppet theatre and musical acts, Family Fest has you covered!
July 10-12, 2026 @ Guild Park & Gardens, 201 Guildwood Parkway, Scarborough
Saturday, July 11, 2026
1. Festival of South Asia
The Festival of South Asia embraces multidisciplinary arts and foods from all the countries in South Asia. Literary Arts, Visual Arts, Performances and Live Music emanates from the stage all weekend. If you can’t fly to South Asia this summer come attend this festival and experience a slice of the culture.
July 11 & 12, 2026 @ Gerrard Street East between Glenside Avenue and Coxwell intersections, Toronto
2. Salsa on St. Clair Street Festival
A stretch of St. Clair Avenue West (from Winona Dr. to Christie St.) is transformed into a showcase of Latin life in Canada. Enjoy the non-stop dancing in the streets and take in all the Latino beats alongside some of the best local and international entertainers. Take a stroll through the Latin pavilion, get a taste of the authentic Latin American flavours, and enjoy a fiesta of fun in the children’s zone.
July 11 & 12, 2026 @ St. Clair Avenue West between Winona and Christie, Toronto
3. Play on the Runway
YZD Runway will transform into a play-your-way car-free zone. Bike it. Roll it. Skate it. Fly it. Bring your wheels, your games, your ideas—and make the Runway your playground. From hands-on activities to crowd-favourite programming, Play on the Runway is designed for all ages, all abilities, and all kinds of fun.
July 11 to 12, 2026 @ YZD Runway, 10 Hanover Road, North York
4. Shoreline Splash
Celebrate Toronto’s shifting shoreline and discover how the lake’s edge was reshaped by colonization, industrialism, and city-building with a community gathering, tours, and a plaque unveiling at Berczy Park.
July 11, 2026 @ Berczy Park, 35 Wellington St E, Toronto
5. Vaughan Latin Festival
Music, art, Kids Zone, waterpark, and spectacular entertainment for the whole family! Enjoy the beauty of live performances, delicious food, meeting new friends and dancing to Salsa, Cumbia, Merengue, and Reggaeton, enjoy Mariachi and learn more about the Latin culture!
July 11, 2026 @ Mackenzie Glen Park, 220 Cranston Park Ave, Vaughan
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Salsa on the Beach
Get ready for an incredible weekend of Latin rhythms and dance at the Beaches Jazz Festival’s Salsa on the Beach! Woodbine Park will come alive with the vibrant sounds of Salsa, Merengue, and Cumbia, celebrating the diversity of nations.
July 10 to 12, 2026 @ Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St E, Toronto
2. Chariot Fest Toronto
Chariot Fest is a vibrant two-day celebration of culture, spirituality, and community downtown Toronto and Centre Island. Kicking off with the Chariot Fest Parade on Yonge Street (starting at Dundas Square), the festival continues at Centre Island with live cultural performances, arts & crafts, spiritual seminars, a bustling marketplace, and a free vegetarian feast open to all.
July 11 to 12, 2026 @ Downtown Toronto
3. WorldFest Canada
WorldFest is Toronto’s signature multicultural fusion festival, bringing together the city’s most diverse communities for two unforgettable days of food, music, art, and global celebration.
July 11 to 12, 2026 @ Sankofa Square, 1 Dundas St E, Toronto
Monday, July 13, 2026
Toronto Conservatories
Savour the sweet smell and glorious colours of blooming flowers around the year at Centennial Park Conservatory and Allan Gardens.
Year-round | 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM
@ Centennial Park Conservatory
151 Elmcrest Road, Toronto
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Explore Ontario Parks for Free
Borrow a day-use vehicle permit from your local library, and you can visit Ontario parks for free.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Orchard Rendezvous
At Orchard Rendezvous, you can enjoy a variety of games, music, and giveaways while spending time with your family and friends. The program is perfect for all ages and is a great way to unwind after a long week.
July 15, 27, August 27, 2026 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm @ Parc Downsview Park, Orchard Pavilion, Toronto
Photo by Janet Kimber.
Aga Khan Museum
Aga Khan Museum houses collections of Islamic art and heritage, including artefacts. Enjoy the museum and the beautifully landscaped gardens free of charge on Wednesdays.
Admission to the Museum and all exhibitions is FREE each Wednesday | 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
@ The Aga Khan Museum, 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto
Thursday, July 16, 2026
1. Taste of Vietnam Toronto
Enjoy delicious food, beautiful decorations, cultural parades, music, games, and MORE!
An enjoyable, family-friendly, fun summer festival! An extraordinary festival unveiling the beauty of Vietnamese culture, the latest fashion, and crafted cuisine.
July 16 to 18, 2026
@ Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Friday, July 17, 2026
1. Healthy Parks Healthy People
No charge for day-use visitation during the celebration. Parks across the province will offer events and activities that encourage people to visit parks and be active. Explore a new park, sample our facilities and services or enjoy a fun event in a great natural setting! 15 parks within 200 km of Toronto.
July 17, 2026 @ Ontario Provincial Parks
2. Summer Live Music Festival
Experience concerts by four award-winning emerging bands and four acappella groups, with a range of original jazz music to folk and pop.
July 17, 2026 @ Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd. West, Toronto
3. TD Weekend Series
Come see Toronto’s most exciting, fresh and groundbreaking artists perform live in Woodbine Park. The weekend kicks off with a massive 1990s throwdown by internationally known Canadian DJs Starting From Scratch and Mista Jiggz alongside host Master T (MuchMusic).
July 17 to 19, 2026 @ Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St E, Toronto
Saturday, July 18, 2025
4. Vibrant Brampton Festival
Hundreds of local and international artists, Bollywood and Punjabi performers, food, shopping, magic shows, face painting and special projects for kids. The community art project, Free giveaways and lots more! Enjoy two days of free festivities!!
July 16 to 19, 2026 @ Garden Square, Brampton
3. RED FM ‘Summer Bhangra Jam’
This stellar legacy event will be a one-day festival featuring a free concert with international Punjabi superstars, Bhangra performances, food trucks, dancing, shopping, KidsZone, fashion shows and much more!
July 18, 2026 @ Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga
1. Junior Carnival and Family Day
Join the young producers, performers, and presenters as they put their imprint on the Festival. The Junior Carnival and Family Day event lets you and everyone in the surrounding community of Malvern enjoy the cultural highlights.
July 18, 2026 @ Malvern Park & Neilson Parks, Toronto
2. Annual GWN Sport Regatta
Races bring a full day of high-level racing and waterfront energy to Toronto’s lakeshore. Festival grounds will offer a variety of activities for all participants and spectators.
July 18, 2026 @ Marilyn Bell Park, 1095 Lake Shore Boulevard West, Toronto
Sunday, July 19, 2026
1. BIG on Bloor Festival of Arts & Culture
BIG on Bloor Festival is back for its 17th year with a rain or shine pedestrian takeover of Bloor Street West from Dufferin to Lansdowne in the culturally rich community of Bloordale including art installations, family activities and local vendors.
July 18 &19, 2026 @ Bloordale, 1140 Bloor Street, Toronto
2. Toronto International Brazilfest
Experience a truly authentic Brazilian festival right in your own back yard. It is a platform to display and highlight the best food, talent, art and entertainment from the Brazilian community.
July 18 to 19, 2026 @ Earlscourt Park – 1200 Lansdowne Ave, Toronto
3. Indonesian Food Festival
The festival aims to showcase the richness and diversity of Indonesian culture through food, music, dance, art and so much more.
July 18, 2026 @ The Yonge Dundas Square, 1 Dundas Street East, Toronto
4. Mississauga Asian Night Market
Whether you’re a food lover eager to sample authentic Asian delicacies or someone looking to immerse yourself in vibrant cultural experiences, the Mississauga Asian Night Market 2026 has something for everyone.
July 17 to 19, 2026 @ Square One Shopping Centre, City Centre Drive, Mississauga
5. Indigenous Sounds Now
Enjoy the many genres of music being created by Indigenous musicians, including alternative rock, blues and country.
July 19, 2026 @ Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd., West Toronto
Monday, July 20, 2026
Explore Canada’s Trail Capital
Discover Canada’s trail capital, Uxbridge. Explore historic villages, mixed forests, meadows, ponds, streams, and wetlands. A number of major trail systems run through the Township, including the Oak Ridges Trail and the Trans-Canada Trail.
Round the Year.
@ Town of Uxbridge
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Royal Ontario Museum
Visit Royal Ontario Museum for free on third Tuesdays. Free admission includes most galleries except for selected special exhibitions.
July 21, August 18, 2026 | 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm. @ Royal Ontario Museum, Queens Park, Toronto
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Dancing On The Square
Every Wednesday through the summer, Dancing on the Square invites audiences to enjoy the art of live dance by Lake Ontario. With an eclectic lineup that includes Latin, Bollywood, hip-hop and contemporary dance, audiences can watch, participate and dance, learning fundamental dance steps for free guided by professional instructors in a fun and casual environment.
Wednesdays, July 15 to September 2, 2026 @ Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
Thursday, July 23, 2026
Queen Street East Streetfest
Queen Street East shuts down to give Toronto a soulful and harmonic weekend. With over 30 different acts performing all across Queen East, this is a summer event you don’t want to miss.
July 23 to 25, 2026 @ Queen Street East – between Woodbine and Beach Aves, Toronto
Friday, July 24, 2026
1. Panamerican Food & Music Festival
The Festival presents food demos by international chefs, live music and dance performances, food competitions and a Pan American vendors’ market offering diverse foods and merchandise and any opportunities to discover the delicious and diverse cuisine of North, Central and South America and the Caribbean, as well as the region’s rich musical traditions.
July 24 to 26, 2026 @ Yonge – Dundas Square, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto
2. Bollywood Monster Mashup
BollywoodMonster Mashup is returning to Celebration Square with international Bollywood stars, dance performances, concerts, sizzling food, shopping and more!
July 24 to 26, 2026
@ Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Saturday, July 25, 2026
1. Mixto Festival
Join for two days of music, art, food, fun, and friends Mixto Festival will still offer the same immaculate block party vibes you love: niche and experimental yet accessible, inclusive, underground but safe and friendly, always celebrating joy
July 25 & 26, 2026 @ Trillium Park, Ontario Place, Toronto
2. AlohaFest Toronto
Torontoʻs first and only united celebration of Polynesian culture that will include dance and musical performances, food and crafts at Mel Lastman Square.
July 25, 2026 @ Mel Lastman Square, Yonge Street, North York
3. Guild Alive with Culture Arts Festival
Explore Guildwood Park as it comes alive with artists, artisan vendors, children’s activities and live entertainment.
July 25 & 26, 2026 @ Guild Park and Gardens, Scarborough
4. BACKYARD: The Cookout
Celebrate the rich flavours, rhythms, and traditions that bring us together. With every beat and bite, The Cookout serves up a joyful tribute to community, music, and culture. Whether you’re vibing to live sounds or sharing a plate with friends, this is the perfect summer prelude to Toronto’s biggest cultural celebration.
July 25, 2026 @ STACKT market, 28 Bathurst St., Toronto
Sunday, July 26, 2026
1. Canadian Multicultural Peruvian Fest
At the Festival, visitors have the opportunity to experience being ‘Peruvian for the Day’, but the Festival is much more than the celebration of the Canadian Peruvian’s heritage.
July 25 & 26, 2026 @ Sankofa Square, Toronto
2. City Hall Live
Get ready to dance under the stars and enjoy the music, alongside local vendors selling delicious food, drinks and crafts. City Hall Live is a music discovery series that highlights local musicians, and partners with grassroots organizations, venues, and presenters.
July 26, 2026 @ Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd., West Toronto
3. Toronto Chinatown Festival
Enjoy Dragon Dance & Lion Dance, Traditional Dancing & Opera Performances, Kung Fu Performances, Art & Culture Booths, Multi-Cultural Street Food, bubble tea, bubble waffle ice cream and more!
July 25 & 26, 2026
@Toronto China Town
Monday, July 27, 2026
Doris McCarthy Trail
Enjoy the beauty of Scarborough Bluffs up close and without breaking the rules by hiking Doris McCarthy Trail in Scarborough!
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Rosetta McClain Gardens
Enjoy the magnificent Rose Garden at Rosetta McClean Gardens that overlooks Ontario Lake!
5 Glen Everest Rd, Toronto
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Explore Nature Parks & Areas
Visit Greater Toronto area parks and conservation areas. There are plenty of opportunities for you to explore and enjoy nature in the GTA area. Though, some areas charge admission fees there are many places you can visit for free.
- 26 of the Best Nature Parks and Hiking Spots in the Halton Region
- 27 of the Best Nature Parks and Hiking Spots in the Peel Region
- 25 of the Best Hiking Spots & Nature Parks in York Region
- 27 of the Best Hiking Spots & Nature Parks in the Durham Region
- 50 Nature Attractions & Hotspots in and Around GTA
- 25 of the Best Hiking Trails in Toronto
Thursday, July 30, 2026
Toronto Botanical Garden and Edward Gardens
Toronto Botanical Garden offers an array of themed gardens spanning nearly four acres, designed to educate and inspire adjacent to Wilket Creek, Don Valley Ravine, and Edwards Gardens.
Year round.
@ Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Avenue East Toronto
Friday, July 31, 2026
Island Soul
Island Soul highlights the diversity and cultural richness of Caribbean communities, showcasing everything from live soca, reggae and dancehall performances to storytelling, film screenings and interactive workshops.
July 31 to August 3, 2026 @ Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto
Saturday, August 1, 2026
1. Grand Parade – Toronto Caribbean Carnival
It is the grand highlight of the annual Festival. After months of preparation, masqueraders in colourful and striking costumes and steel pan bands wind their way from Exhibition Place along a 3.5-kilometer stretch on Lakeshore Boulevard. It truly is something you can’t miss.
August 1, 2026
@ Lakeshore Blvd W & Exhibition Place, Toronto
2. Taste of India Food Festival
Come for musical melodies and mind-blowing dance performances and enjoy over a few hundred dishes from all parts of India with over 50+ vendors / restaurants.
August 1 & 2, 2026 @ Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
3. South Asian Festival of Mississauga
The award-winning festival of Mississauga brings you the best of art, culture and cuisine from South Asia. The two day free festival will feature music, dance, folklore, Bollywood, food and shopping in the heart of Mississauga, headlined by the popular artists and performers from India, Pakistan, Canada and the USA.
July 31 to August 1, 2026 @ Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Sunday, August 2, 2026
407 ETR Family Weekend
While the Best of Tennis take to the Sobeys Stadium courts, fans young and old can enjoy entertainment around the grounds thanks to the return of 407 ETR Family Weekend and a host of engaging activations during the National Bank Open presented by Rogers
August 1 & 2, 2026 @ Sobeys Stadium, 1 Shoreham Drive, Toronto
Monday, August 3, 2026
Soldiers’ Tower Carillon Recital
Enjoy free Carillon recitals. A carillon is a musical instrument consisting of a set of bells cast in bronze and tuned so that they can be sounded together harmoniously by a player on a keyboard. The 51 bells of the Soldiers’ Tower Carillon range in weight from four tons (low Bb, an octave below middle C) to 23 pounds (high D, three octaves above middle C).
Monday, August 3, & September 7, 2026 @ Soldier’s Tower, 7 Hart House Circle, Toronto
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Explore Waterfront Trail
Celebrate GTA’s waterfront by hiking, or biking the waterfront trail that traverses GTA. There are natural areas including wetlands, forests and beaches.
You may like Port Union Waterfront Trail.
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Explore Rouge Park
Canada’s premier urban wilderness park is home to an amazing combination of natural, cultural and agricultural features including 1,700 species of plants and animals, over 10,000 years of human history, and some of the rarest and best remaining wetlands, forests and agricultural lands in the Greater Toronto Area. Whether you laze out in the sun at the Rouge Beach, or go for a hike or look for treasures with your GPS unit, there is no dearth of stuff to do in Canada’s National Urban Park.
Year-round
@ Many accessible points, Rouge Park.
Thursday, August 6, 2026
Explore Scarborough Bluffs
See the Bluffs that was the very reason for the naming of this part of the city as ‘Scarborough’ by Elizabeth Simcoe. The best place to see the bluffs is from Bluffer’s Park (take right (west) at the end of Brimley Road). The bluffs can be viewed from any of Scarborough parks located along Lake Ontario.
Year-round
@ Various Scarborough Parks along Lake Ontario
Friday, August 7, 2026
1. Annual Grange Festival
The Grange Festival is a free public, outdoor fair with engaging performances and a range of fun-filled activities for adults and children.
August 7, 2026 @ Grange Park, 26 Grange Road, Toronto
2. Habari Africa
This multidisciplinary long weekend festival celebrates Africa’s rich and diverse culture with live music, films, art exhibitions and dance workshops led by Canadian and international artists.
August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
3. Taste of the Danforth
The Taste of the Danforth is Canada’s largest street Festival, welcoming 1.65 million attendees annually. The Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before with dozens of free activities for visitors of all ages – and of course Food, Food and more Food!
August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Greek Town, Danforth Ave & Pape Ave, Toronto
4. Mississauga Latin Festival
Bring your children, invite your family and friends to practice SPANISH, learn SALSA and enjoy the first and only LATINO Festival in Mississauga and the Peel region with more than 35,000 attendees at the Mississauga Celebration Square.
August 7 to 9, 2026 @ Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Saturday, August 8, 2026
1. Himalayan Mela
Explore Nepalese arts and crafts, live performance of Nepalese music and dance by famous Nepalese artists from GTA and beyond, taste of Nepalese foods, and more!
August 8, 2026 @ Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W., Toronto
2. Doors Open Burlington
Explore unique sites and catch a behind-the-scenes look at cultural and historical sites around Burlington.
August 8, 2026 @ Various Venues, Burlington
3. Korea Town Cultural Street
With a street closure on Euclid North, Korea Town Cultural Street will feature cultural decor, a stage, live performances, activity zones, and tents for members to host a custom activation to promote their business!
August 8, 2026
@ Bloor St W & Euclid Ave, Toronto
Sunday, August 9, 2026
1. Acton Leathertown Festival
The Acton Leathertown Festival in Canada’s Original Leathertown and the largest and oldest festival in Halton Hills! Discover why it truly is worth the drive to Acton, one of the GTA’s last “small towns” and celebrate the Festival’s history as a leather town.
August 9, 2026 @19 Willow Street North, Acton
2. Toronto Diversity Festival
Enjoy a vibrant, celebration of culture, community, and connection! The Toronto Diversity Festival showcases the rich tapestry of cultures that make our city so special.
August 9, 2026 @ Sankofa Square, 1 Dundas St. East, Toronto
3. GhanaFest
Experience raditional food, language lessons, games, arts, culinary, dance of Ghana, cultural fashion show, cultural performers, engaging local artists across Canada, international artists, and more!
August 9, 2026 @ Earl Bales Park, 4169 Bathurst St, North York
Monday, August 10, 2026
Visit a Conservation Area
Enjoy scenic lookouts, stroll boardwalks along Great Lakes shores, spy upon songbirds on deciduous woods at conservation areas near Toronto. Greenwood Conservation Area in Ajax and Altona Forest in Pickering are great places for an evening hike.
Free Conservation Areas
@ ~ an hour from Toronto
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Kidstown Water Park
As the only City-owned and operated water park, Kidstown is an iconic destination in the heart of Scarborough. The park has reopened after renovation, and has a new outdoor pool and wading pool, expanded water-play features, improved accessibility, and design elements inspired by the history and traditions of the Huron-Wendat community, created by artist Catherine Tammaro.
10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily @ 3159 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough
Spray Parks & Outdoor Pools
Hit Toronto’s or your city’s spray parks or outdoor pools to cool off! Midtown
through Mid September | Open daily
@ Various locations, Toronto
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
ROM Walks – Free Guided Tours
Join for ROMWalks that encompass the diverse aspects of Toronto’s vibrant neighbourhoods including history, architecture, arts of all varieties, education and more.
Select Wednesdays & Sundays until October end. @ Various locations, Toronto
Thursday, August 13, 2026
Visit St Lawrence Market
Who doesn’t love to explore isles and isles of delicious food, from yummy cookies to exotic vegetables? Enjoy the sights and the smells as you explore the market situated inside 200 year old building. The Market Gallery, inside the site of Toronto’s 19th-century City Hall, exhibits Toronto’s art, culture and history.
Year-round
@ 92 Front St. E., Toronto
Friday, August 14, 2026
1. Afrofest
Celebrates the abundant energy of African music in an effort to cultivate community spirit and enhance the understanding and appreciation of the diverse people of Africa.
August 14 to 16, 2026 @ Woodbine Park – 1695 Queen Street East, Toronto
2. Honda Indy
Honda Indy
Honda Fan Friday will feature a jam-packed schedule of on-track action. Stunt shows, contests, autograph sessions and all kinds of off-track entertainment will be in full gear from gate open to close across the event site, providing something for everyone, race fan or not!
August 14, 2026 @ Downtown, Markham
Saturday, August 15, 2026
1. Wheels On The Danforth
See an amazing assortment of Classics, Exotics, Tuners, Muscle Cars, Hot Rods, and Motorcycles, a variety of vendors and artisans, kids zone, and more!
August 15, 2026 @ 3400 Danforth Avenue, Toronto
2. Open Canvas Music & Arts Festival
Taking over Trillium Park, this one-day free event promises global sounds, immersive art, and a vibrant community atmosphere that captures the essence of Toronto’s cultural identity.
August 15, 2026 @ Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
3. Japan Festival
Japan Festival is for all ages, families and friends to truly enjoy and experience Japanese Food, Culture and Technologies.
August 14 to 16, 2026 @ Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
4. Afraspektion
Enjoy the memorable opening ceremony, followed by a day filled with festival fun, giveaways, a curated market, live music and free entertainment for all ages!
August 15, 2026 @ Riverside Common Park, 657 Queen St. E, Toronto
5. Maha Onam
Onam is Kerala’s iconic harvest festival – a celebration of culture, unity, and abundance. This free, family-friendly event invites everyone to experience the richness of Kerala right in the heart of downtown Toronto.
August 15, 2026 @ Sankofa Square, 1 Dundas St E, Toronto
Sunday, August 16, 2026
Taste of Manila
Taste of Manila is one of the largest street festivals in the county. There are lots of things you’ll want to make sure you check out while you’re here. The festival will include lots of different vendors selling a variety of products.
August 15 & 16, 2026 @ Wilson Ave. and Bathurst St., Toronto
Monday, August 17, 2026
High Park
High Park has something for every member of the family and for kids, there is a Children’s Garden, the High Park Zoo with lots of animals including bison, llamas, and peacocks, and a castle of a playground – Jamie Bell Playground. The park is home to many species of wildlife, including birds, fish and animals.
Year Round
@ High Park, Toronto
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Evergreen Brick Works
Explore Don River valley! Evergreen Brick Works, a former quarry and industrial site holds art exhibits by local artists, and has plenty of activities for the whole family. Explore Don Valley Brick Works Park that houses Weston Family Quarry Garden, stroll the pond boardwalks,and get learn about the ecosystems provide homes to numerous species of animals and plants.
Year Round @ 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate and Bronte Harbour
Visit Erchless Estate, which was once home to Oakville‘s founding family, overlooking Oakville’s community museum. Enjoy the beautiful buildings, the grounds and gardens of Erchless that overlook Lake Ontario. Bronte Harbour, located 6 km from the museum, has a great boardwalk that leads to the Bronte Harbour Lighthouse and great parks that overlook Lake Ontario.
Museum – Year-Round | Tuesdays to Sunday1s, 1:00 PM-4:30 PM @ Erchless Estate, 8 Navy St, Oakville
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Fun Day at Centre Island
Toronto’s family fun summer destination has plenty of exciting free activities. The island features a myriad of delightful activities from feeding birds to a pettting Zoo at Far Enough Farm, splash pads, beaches, a children’s garden inspired by Franklin the Turtle, and the William Meany Maze.
Summer
@ Centre Island Toronto
Friday, August 21, 2026
Sankofa Day
As the summer season’s anchor, the festival culminates on August 23rd with Sankofa Day, a day centered on remembrance, healing, and the future, marking UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, bringing a global moment of reflection into one of Canada’s most prominent public spaces.
August 21 to 23, 2026 @ Sankofa Square, 1 Dundas St E, Toronto
Saturday, August 22, 2026
1. Mabuhay Philippines Festival
A weekend celebration of Filipino food, music, culture, fashion and art. With over 50 vendors, Mabuhay Philippines Festival will certainly introduce you to traditional Filipino streetfood and innovative baked treats.
August 22 & 23, 2026 @ Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. West, Toronto
2. Annual Scarborough Afro-Carib Fest
Experience mouthwatering ethnic cuisines, grab a drink from the beer tent, and spend the day enjoying live musical performances, a cultural fashion show, dance competitions, drum and dance workshops, a kid’s zone and much more.
August 22 & 23, 2026@ Thomson Memorial Park, 1005 Brimley Rd, Scarborough
3. Mississauga ItalFest
Mississauga ITALFEST is a free festival that shares Italian heritage and culture with the citizens of Mississauga and beyond. Featured are exciting pasta and watermelon eating contests, kids and family attractions, Heritage center and displays, a VIP Lounge and Bar Italia, celebrity chef demos, delicious culinary experiences and a variety of market vendors.
August 21 & 22, 2026 @ Mississauga Celebration Square, City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Sunday, August 23, 2026
1. Yorkville Murals
Yorkville Murals will transform the street into a cultural extravaganza, where visitors will be entertained with every step. On Yorkville Avenue from Bellair Street to Hazelton Avenue, Yorkville Murals will deliver participatory entertainment and play
August 22 & 23, 2026 @ 99 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto
2. Markham Jazz Festival
Enjoy this exciting and vibrant three-day event featuring well-known professional jazz musicians performing on three stages on beautiful Main Street Unionville.
August 22 & 23, 2026 @ Main Street Unionville – Markham
Monday, August 24, 2026
Riverdale Farm
Located at the Erstwhile site of Toronto Zoo, Riverdale Farm is a great visit place to visit with young children. See farm animals and poultry at the Pig and Poultry Barn, learn about chores that happen in a farm, and learn about the day-to-day working on a farm.
Enjoy a serene walk inside Toronto Necropolis situated next door!!
Daily | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
@ 201 Winchester St, Toronto
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Explore Riverwood
Located on the banks of Credit River, Riverwood is a 150-acre park that house both historical buildings and environmentally significant areas. Enjoy a day out hiking the trails that traverse habitats of more than 475 species of animals and plants. Relax in beautiful Chappell House Gardens or, MacEwan Terrace Garden, go for a bird trek or take in an art exhibition by Visual Arts Mississauga in the historic MacEwan House.
Year-round
@ Riverwood extends north from Burnhamthorpe Road West to Highway 403.
The entrance is located at the intersection of Burnhamthorpe Road West and The Credit Woodlands / Riverwood Park Lane
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Free programs at your local library
GTA libraries offer plenty of free, fun programs, from magic shows to movies. Check your local library for more details.
Summer @ Your local library
Thursday, August 27, 2026
Sculpture Garden at McMichael’s Canadian Collection
Explore the Sculpture Garden at McMichael’s Canadian Collection. With the planted wilderness garden and network of outdoor paths and trails, the Ivan Eyre Sculpture Garden presents a series of installations and outdoor sculptures.
10365 Islington Ave., Kleinburg
Friday, August 28, 2026
TAIWANfest Toronto
Immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of arts and culture at TAIWANfest with the theme: Dialogue with Portugal.
August 28 to 30, 2026 @ Harbourfront Center, 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Mississauga MuslimFest
The event features local and international artists who will showcase their talent for all attendees to enjoy. Concerts featuring popular Muslim artists, comedy shows, a multicultural bazaar, and a kids’ carnival are just some of the fun activities that available to experience during MuslimFest Celebration Square.
August 28 to 30, 2026 @ Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Visit Port Credit, Mississauga
Port Credit, Mississauga’s picturesque “Village on the Lake”, is a great place to experience Lake Ontario and the Credit River. Explore Port Credit Harbour by hiking the waterfront trail that winds through parks and pathways along the lake and river shoreline, take in postcard worthy pictures with the iconic red and white, Port Credit lighthouse as background and picnic at Memorial Park.
Any time round the year
@ Port Credit lighthouse- 105 Lakeshore Road W, Port Credit
Monday, August 31, 2026
Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden and Robert McLaughlin Gallery
With stunning gardens, architectural features, serene water features and winding pathways, Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens links the natural area of the Oshawa Creek and the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path. Plan a day trip to Oshawa, visit the gardens and drop by Robert McLaughlin Gallery, largest gallery in Durham Region with over 4000 artworks in its collection.
Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden – best in spring and summer.
@ Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden – Extends from Adelaide Avenue to Gibb Street along the Oshawa Creek.
Gallery – Year-round @ The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, 72 Queen Street, Civic Centre, Oshawa
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Tommy Thompson Park
Located on the man-made headland, known as the Leslie Street Spit, which extends five km into Lake Ontario and is over 500 hectares in size. Bike, hike or rollerblade and enjoy some of the largest existing natural habitat on the Toronto waterfront, which includes wildflower meadows, coastal marshes, cobble beaches and sand dunes and more! It is also one of the best nature-watching areas in the GTA.
Summer Hours: Weekends and holidays, April to November | | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
@ foot of Leslie Street where it meets Unwin Avenue, south of Lake Shore Boulevard East.
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Ontario’s Legislative Building Tour
Visit Queen’s Park and join for a guided tour of Ontario’s Legislative Building or on a walkabout of the grounds of Queen’s Park exploring the architecture, notable historical statues and monuments.
Thursday, September 3, 2026
Humber Arboretum
Explore this unique site consisting of botanical gardens and natural areas surrounding the Humber River. Through six kilometres of walking trails, discover the Carolinian bioregion, which boasts over 1,700 species of plants and animals.
Year round
@ 205 Humber College Blvd., Toronto. – back of Humber College’s North Campus.
Friday, September 4, 2026
T.U. JAZZ FEST
The annual T.U. Jazz Fest! Celebrating the next generation of jazz in Canada and beyond. Concerts, masterclasses, jam sessions, food vendors and more.
August 29 to September 1, 2025 @ Mel Lastman Square, Yonge Street, North York
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Canadian International Air Show
Don’t miss out on astonishing aerial performances that honour Airforce veterans, including the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.
September 5 to 7, 2026 @ Marilyn Bell Park, 1095 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Explore The Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto
The MOCA Toronto is a place of conversation, exchange and exploration where visitors of all ages and backgrounds can be part of a global creative moment.
First Sunday of each month @ MOCA Toronto, 158 Sterling Rd.
Monday, September 7, 2026
A Last Hurrah at the Beach!
Have you been to GTA beaches yet? Build sandcastles or enjoy a swim in the fresh waters of Lake Ontario. There are 8 beaches in Toronto that are blue flag certified beaches – meaning it has undergone strict evaluation and are up to standard on water quality, environmental management, environmental education, safety and services.
Year Round
@ Waterfront Trail – Lake Ontario – GTA.
Will this page be updated for 2024?
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