Toronto 
The National Bank Open presented by Rogers is set to captivate sports enthusiasts worldwide once again in Toronto from August 5 to 13.
Credit: National Bank Open
As the third-oldest tennis tournament, it attracts some of the greatest players in the sport, following only Wimbledon and the US Open. This year’s event promises to be a nine-day extravaganza of world-class tennis, featuring all of the world’s top 42 players.
Tennis Canada, in collaboration with Canadian Traffic Network ULC (CTN) and Skyworx Drone Shows (Skyworx), will kick off the National Bank Open presented by Rogers with a spectacular drone show.
On August 4, 500 synchronized drones will light up the night sky, projecting various shapes and animations related to tennis and the event. Embracing innovation, this eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireworks aligns with Tennis Canada’s goal of introducing new and exciting initiatives for the 2023 National Bank Open. The 12-minute show to be held at Woodbine Beach/Park between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. will be among Canada’s largest, attracting fans to gather at designated locations to witness the mesmerizing display.
Admission to the 2023 National Bank Open will be free on August 5th to 6th during the 407 ETR Family Weekend.
Visitors can enjoy free entry to the grounds of Sobeys Stadium (1 Shoreham Drive, Toronto) and an array of exciting activities.
Families can immerse themselves in a variety of entertainment options, including face painting, arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course, and the fan-favourite air guitar contest. As part of the Mental Timeout initiative, attendees can also experience dog therapy, join yoga sessions, and have the chance to sign Tennis Canada’s Positive Court Pledge or write a positivity postcard to their favorite players.
Moreover, the VIP Lounge offers an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the iconic Davis Cup trophy, concluding its nationwide tour. On Sunday, August 6th, there will be an exhilarating ball hockey game featuring NHL stars and top ATP players, refereed by Sportsnet’s Ron MacLean. Younger fans will have the chance to meet beloved TV characters like the PAW Patrol, Spongebob Squarepants, Toopy and Binoo, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Throughout the weekend, there are activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as taking a tour of the site on Via Rail’s Mini Train, participating in a scavenger hunt with chances to win fun prizes, and showcasing creativity in making tennis-themed crafts.
Additionally, the event offers the chance to have photos taken with the Davis Cup trophy won by Team Canada, presented by Sobeys in 2022. There’s also the option to cool down with sno-cones and indulge in cotton candy, making the day even more enjoyable.
This year’s lineup of players for the tournament kicking off on August 7 is nothing short of remarkable, with top talents like World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Félix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov, Milos Raonic, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Casper Ruud, Holger Rune, Andrey Rublev, Jannik Sinner, Taylor Fritz, and Frances Tiafoe, among others, set to dazzle the audience.
Things to Do in Toronto This Weekend
National Bank Open – Drone Show & 407 ETR Weekend
Credit: National Bank Open
When: Friday, August 4, 2023 | Between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m.
Venue: Woodbine Beach, 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto
When: August 5 & 6, 2023 | 10 am to 5 pm
Where: Sobeys Stadium, 1 Shoreham Drive, Toronto (York University)
