Here is our round-up of fun things to do in Toronto this August
August 1st to 11th – SummerWorks Performance Festival
The 2024 SummerWorks Performance Festival presents 11 days of bold creative expressions from a diversity of perspectives and lived experiences, with over 40+ events and activities, all curated and designed around the idea of gathering together in public space.
Location: Theatre Centre, Toronto
Dates:
-
August 1st to 11th, Various Times
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $15. Grab your tickets here.
(Cultural Festival)
August 1st – King and Queen Showcase 2024
The King and Queen Showcase is part of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival festivities. It features mas band leaders displaying elaborate costumes and culminates in the crowning of the carnival’s King and Queen.
Location: 100 Princes’ Boulevard, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 1st, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $75. Grab your tickets here
(Cultural Festival)
August 1st to 5th – Island Soul
Island Soul is a long weekend celebration of Caribbean culture in Toronto that features music, film, food, comedy, multidisciplinary arts, and cultural activities.
Location: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 1st, 8:00 pm
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August 2nd, 5:00 pm
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August 3rd, 12:00 pm
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August 4th, 12:00 pm
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August 5th, 12:00 pm
Admission: Priced and Free varies based on the day.
(Cultural Festival)
August 2nd to 4th – Veld Music Festival
Veld Music Festival is the largest annual electronic and dance festival in Canada, showcasing the biggest electronic and dance artists in the world in Toronto
Location: Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Road, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 2nd, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 3rd, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 4th, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 5th, 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $285. Grab your tickets here
(Music Festival)
August 2nd to 5th – Toronto Food Truck Festival
Woodbine Park hosts the Toronto Food Truck Festival over the long weekend of August. Guests should expect lots of great food, including vegetarian, halal, and vegan options. Attractions include games, activities, and daily challenges!
Location: Woodbine Park, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 2nd, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 3rd, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 4th, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 5th, 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Food Festival)
August 2nd – PARTYNEXTDOOR: Sorry I’m Outside Tour
R&B singer, PARTYNEXTDOOR, will swoon audiences with melodic sounds at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto this August
Location: Budweiser Stage, Toronto
Dates and Time: August 2nd, 7:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $107. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 2nd to 5th – Scarborough Rib Fest
The Scarborough Rib Fest takes place over the August long weekend, bringing the best ribs from Canada and the USA to Scarborough. Expect lots of great entertainment while devouring tasty ribs.
Location: Thomson Memorial Park, 1005 Brimley Rd, Scarborough
Dates and Time:
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August 2nd, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
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August 3rd, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
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August 4th, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
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August 5th, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Food Festival)
August 2nd – Jab Jab J’Ouvert
Jab Jab J’ouvert is Canada’s Biggest J’ouvert Event, featuring electrifying music, live performances by International Caribbean Artists and D.J.s, and vibrant colors at the iconic Jab Jab J’Ouvert. Get ready to dance the night away with friends and family, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Caribbean.
Location: 50 Esna Park Drive Markham
Dates and Time:
-
August 2nd, 4:00 pm – 12:00 am
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $78. Grab your tickets here.
(Carnival Color Party and Celebration)
August 3rd – Grand Parade (Toronto Caribbean Carnival)
The Grand Parade is the largest Caribbean Parade in North America, showcasing Caribbean culture through its vibrant mas parades and competitions, dazzling costumes, lively soca, and spirited masqueraders.
The mas band competition is an integral part of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival parade, where judges evaluate performances based on costumes, energy, and creativity. The competition to win the best mas band is highly esteemed, adding an exciting competitive element to the parade.
Location: 100 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 3rd, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $45. Grab your tickets here
(Cultural Parade)
August 3rd and 4th – Taste of India
Taste of India is the largest Indian Food Festival in North America. It attracts over 10,000 attendees and features over 100 authentic cuisines from food vendors.
Location: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 3rd, 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
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August 4th, 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Food Festival)
August 3rd and 4th – Toronto Diversity Festival
Hosted by the Moksha Canada Foundation, the Toronto Diversity Festival brings together people from all communities in Toronto to celebrate their cultural diversity with artistic performances, food, music, dance, children’s activities, vendors, local businesses, and many more activities for all ages and interests.
Location: Yonge-Dundas Square, Toronto.
Dates and Time:
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August 3rd, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
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August 4th, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 4th – The Queens Of R&B: Xscape & SWV
American girl groups, Xscape and SWV will perform swoon audiences with their greatest hits this August in Toronto
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto.
Dates and Time: August 4th, 7:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $46. Grab your tickets here.
(Concert)
August 4th to 12th – National Bank Open
The National Bank Open brings action-packed tennis to the Sobeys Stadium in Toronto. Come see the best in the world compete for a grand prize.
Location: Sobeys Stadium, 1 Shoreham Dr, North York
Dates and Time:
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August 4th to 12th. View event times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Grab your tickets here
(Tennis Tournament)
August 8th – CHEVELLE
American Rock Band will perform at the HISTORY venue in Toronto this August
Location: HISTORY, 1663 Queen St E, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 8th, 6:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $81. Grab your tickets here.
(Concert)
August 9th – Imagine Dragons: LOOM WORLD TOUR
American pop rock band Imagine Dragons hit Toronto this August to perform songs in support of their sixth studio album Loom
Location: Budweiser Stage, 909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 9th, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $124. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 9th and 10th – canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show
canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show is one of Canada’s biggest Fitness, Health, & Wellness Events. Guests should expect two fun days of cutting-edge workouts, transformative workshops, lectures, and panels led by industry experts
Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North Building)
Dates and Time:
-
August 9th and 10th,
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $291. Grab your tickets here.
( Fitness, Health & Wellness Event)
August 9th to 11th – Taco Fest
Toronto’s epic 3-day Mexican Food fiesta, Taco Fest, returns this summer for its 8th edition over three days from August 9th to 11th at a brand new location in Fort York Blvd, Toronto. Guests should expect a showcase of over 250 types of tacos from the dishes and menus of over 45 of the city’s best chefs and restaurants, offering new takes on traditional Mexican cuisines, classic Mexican dishes, and exclusive never-seen-before dishes at the festival.
Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 9th, 11:00 am – 9:30 pm
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August 10th, 11:00 am – 9:30 pm
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August 11th, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $17.50. Grab your tickets here. This is a 19+ event; a valid I.D. is required for entry.
(Food Festival)
August 9th to 11th – Toronto Waterfront Night Market
The Waterfront Night Market is a multi-day summer celebration of culture and community designed in celebration of the QiXi Double Seven Festival (Asia’s version of Valentine’s Day). Guests will experience culture with food, drinks, and interactive attractions
Location: Hotel X Toronto, Exhibition Grounds, 115 Princes’ Blvd
Dates and Time:
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August 9th, 6:00 pm – 12:00 am
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August 10th, 4:00 pm – 12:00 am
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August 11th, 4:00 pm – 12:00 am
Admission: Free
(Night Market)
August 9th to 11th – Jerk Fest Toronto
The Largest Jerk Festival in North America returns to Toronto this August. JerkFest returns to Toronto for three days from August 9th to 11th at the Centennial Park. This epic Caribbean Food, Music, and Culture showcase will feature the best Caribbean Cuisines, including Jerk Chicken, Ackee and Saltfish, Rice and Peas, Patties, Conch Fritters, Sorrel Drinks, and many more!
Location: Centennial Park, 256 Centennial Park Rd
Dates and Time:
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August 9th, 5:00 pm
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August 10th, 10:00 am
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August 11th, 10:00 am
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $20 varies based on the day. Grab your tickets here.
(Food Festival)
August 10th – Kothu Fest 2024
Kothu Fest is a cultural celebration of the popular Sri Lankan dish, Kothu Roti. Guests should expect a full day of food, music, art, games, and entertainment for the entire family.
Location: Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Dr, Scarborough
Dates and Time:
-
August 10th, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 10th – Humber Bay Shores Waterfront Festival
The 12th Annual Waterfront Festival returns for a full day of fun at Humber Bay Park. There will be lots of artisans and vendors selling fresh food, produce, and more. Guests should also expect performances, loads of family entertainment, food, and live music.
Location: Humber Bay Park West Parking Lot, 225 Humber Bay Park Rd W, Etobicoke
Dates and Time:
-
August 10th, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Festival)
August 11th – Canadian Latin Fest 2024
Canadian Latin Fest celebrates the rich diversity and heritage of Latin People in Canada. At the festival, guests will try Latin dishes from food vendors. There will also be live performances, folk and arts crafts, a kids’ zone, and lots of fun things to do.
Location: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. West. Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 11th, 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 11th – ICE SPICE
American rapper ICE SPICE performs at HISTORY THIS AUGUST
Location: HISTORY, 1663 Queen St E, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 8th, 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $99. Grab your tickets here.
(Concert)
August 11th – Salsa and Samba at Trillium Park
City Hall Live returns to SummerSeries in Trillium Park at Ontario Place this year as a free, family-friendly event with a night of dancing under the stars. The event will feature a Brazilian samba band, a full salsa band, free dance lessons, food and beverage for purchase and artisan vendors.
Location: Trillium Park, 955 Lakeshore Blvd West, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 11th, 4:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Admission: Free
(Concert)
August 11th – Future + Metro Boomin: We Trust You Tour
American rapper Future and producer Metro Boomin will perform songs from their latest joint album, We Don’t Trust You, in Toronto at the Scotiabank Arena.
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 11th, 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $126. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 12th – Avril Lavigne Greatest Hits Tour
Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne brings her high energy to the Scotiabank Arena to electrify audiences this August
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 12th, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $134. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 14th – DAYDREAM
Daydream is back at Hotel X Toronto for its second year with an enchanting evening on the High Park Terrace. This summer evening activity blends serene yoga with captivating live music.
From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., attendees will enjoy a transformative Slow-Flow Yoga Class led by Kay Ghajar, accompanied by soothing music from Mohsin Zaman. At 8:00 p.m., Jade Hilton and her band will perform, creating an uplifting musical journey.
The event will feature whimsical cotton candy and savory popcorn, adding to the magical ambiance. Attendees will be treated to a refreshing mocktail drink specially crafted for this occasion, and additional drinks will be available to purchase.
Location: High Park Terrace at Hotel X Toronto, 111 Princes’ Boulevard Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 14th, 2024; 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $49. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 15th – ACTION BRONSON AND CONWAY THE MACHINE
American rapper ACTION BRONSON performs at HISTORY this August
Location: HISTORY, 1663 Queen St E, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 8th, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $74. Grab your tickets here.
(Concert)
August 16th to September 2nd – Canadian National Exhibition
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest annual community event and one of the top agricultural fairs in North America. Over the 18 days leading up to and including Labor Day, it is affectionately embraced as an end-of-summer ritual by more than 1.4 million visitors annually, who reflect the rich diversity of Toronto and the region. This event features entertainment, concerts, rides, exhibits, games, and more!
Location: Exhibition Place
Dates and Time:
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From August 16th to September 2nd, view event times and schedules here.
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $22. Grab your tickets here
(Festival)
August 17th – King’s Plate
The King’s Plate is one of the most celebrated events in horse racing worldwide. This year’s edition marks the 165th running of the prestigious, $1 million-stakes race historically named in honor of the reigning monarch, which has become one of the highest-profile events in Canadian sports.
Location: Woodbine Racetrack, 555 Rexdale Boulevard, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 17th, 12:25 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $25. Various price packages are available. Grab your tickets here
(Horse Racing)
August 17th and 18th – Toronto Chinatown Festival
Organized by the Toronto Chinatown Business Improvement Area (CBIA), the Toronto Chinatown Festival celebrates the Year of the Dragon with the inspiring theme “Soaring Dragon Dispensing Splendours. This theme embodies a majestic presence and vibrant expression, symbolizing strength, power, and beauty.
The 24th annual festival will feature Dragon and lion Dances, Multicultural Performances, International Street Food, Local Vendors and lucky Draws, Free Mural Walking Tours, and more!
Location: West side of Spadina Avenue, (between St Andrew St & Sullivan St)
Dates and Time:
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August 17th, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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August 18th, 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 17th and 18th – Taste of Manila Canada
Taste of Manila Canada returns for its 11th year to celebrate Filipino Culture and Heritage in Toronto. Guests will enjoy music, experience Filipino food, and get a rare chance to meet special guests Alden Richards and Boobay!
Location: Bathurst St. and Wilson Ave., Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 17th, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
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August 18th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 17th and 18th – Island Eats Food Festival & Travel Show
The Island Eats Food Festival & Travel Show is an exciting two-day showcase of Caribbean food and cuisine at Mel Lastman Square. Guests should expect to try exotic drinks, an International Flavors Market, live music and entertainment, a travel zone, surprise giveaways, and more.
Location: Mel Lastman Square, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 17th and 18th, 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Food Festival)
August 18th – Childish Gambino (The New World Tour)
America singer-songwriter and actor Childish Gambino performs at the Scotiabank Arena this August.
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 18th, 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $154. Grab your tickets here
(Concert)
August 19th – SHENSEEA – Never Gets Late Here
Jamaican dancehall songwriter and singer, Shenseea performs at the HISTORY this August.
Location: HISTORY, 1663 Queen St E, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 19th, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $93. Grab your tickets here.
(Concert))
August 19th and 20th – Missy Elliott: OUT OF THIS WORLD – THE EXPERIENCE
Global Superstar Missy Elliott performs at the Scotiabank Arena this August with Hip Hop legend Busta Rhymes, Multi-Platinum selling superstar Ciara, and mega-producer Timbaland.
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 19th and 20th, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $151. Grab your tickets here
August 21st to 25th – Yensa Festival
Produced by Lua Shayenne Dance Company (LSDC), the Yensa Festival is an international biennial festival that celebrates the work of women in dance from African and Afro-diasporic cultures.
Location: Various Locations in Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 21st to 25th. View event times and schedule here
Admission: Free and Priced. Varies based on events. Tickets are available here
(Dance Festival)
August 22nd to 25th – Fan Expo Canada
Fan Expo Canada is Canada’s largest comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming event, attracting hundreds of thousands worldwide and offering exciting family-friendly attractions, events, activities, and much more!
Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St W, Toronto
Dates and Time:
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August 22nd to 25th, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $29. Various price packages are available. Grab your tickets here
(Pop-Culture Convention)
August 23rd to 25th – Toronto Zoo Multicultural Festival
Toronto Zoo Multicultural Festival is a three-day spectacle that treats guests to everything lovely about the zoo, infused with multicultural experiences and shopping. There will be colorful displays of culture, dance, and food.
Location: Toronto Zoo, 2000 Meadowvale Rd
Dates and Time:
-
August 23rd to 25th, view event times and schedule here
Admission: TBA
(Cultural Festival)
August 23rd to 25th – Toronto Korean Festival
The Toronto Korean Festival is the biggest Korean cultural festival in Canada weekend filled with culinary delights, performances, vibrant market vendors, and endless fun at the vast Mel Lastman Square.
Location: Mel Lastman Square,
Dates and Time:
-
August 23rd to 25th, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 24th and 25th – Afro Carib Fest
Organized by the Heritage Skills Development Centre (HSDC), Afro Carib Fest is hosting its annual event that celebrates the diversity of African and Caribbean cultures through music, arts, dance, food, and culture. This event welcomes attendees from across Canada and Internationally. There will be live music, entertainment, vendors, cultural arts and crafts, food trucks, a cultural parade, and more.
Location: Thomson Memorial Park, 1005 Brimley Rd, Scarborough
Dates and Time:
-
August 24th and 25th, 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 24th and 25th – It’s Ok World
It’s Ok World hosts their second annual outdoor music festival showcasing upcoming musical talents. There will be art, tasty foods and drinks, lots of fun stuff to do.
Location: Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
Dates and Time:
-
August 24th and 25th, 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Admission: Free
(Outdoor Music Festival)
August 30th to September 1st – Toronto Dragon Festival
The Toronto Dragon Festival is a Chinese cultural celebration in Toronto that features epic performances, Asian Street Food, Lion and Dragon Dances, and lots more!
Location: Nathan Phillips Square
Dates and Time: August 30th to September 1st, view event times and schedule here.
Admission: Free
(Cultural Festival)
August 30th to September 2nd – T.U. Jazz Fest 2024
The biggest jazz festival for emerging artists in Canada, T.U. Jazz Fest is holding its 10th annual festival at Mel Lastman Square on Labor Day weekend. With over 150 equity-deserving musicians across Canada, some of the JUNO award-winning musicians will delight music lovers in the GTA.
Location: Mel Lastman Square, Toronto.
Dates and Time:
-
August 30th, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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August 31st, 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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September 1st, 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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September 2nd, 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
View event information (Jazz Music Festival)
August 30th to September 2nd – Bark in the Park TO
Woof Woof! Bark in the Park TO is the ultimate celebration of all things doggos at Woodbine Park. This event brings together dog lovers, furry friends, and top-notch vendors for a weekend filled with wagging tails and endless fun.
This dog-friendly event also features a dog costume contest, shows, food trucks, exciting activities, and demonstrations to keep the doggos happy and engaged.
Location: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen Street East
Dates and Time:
-
August 30th to September 2nd,
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August 30th, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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August 31st, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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September 1st, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Passes start at $10. Grab your tickets here
(Doggie Show and Festival)
August 30th to September 2nd – Toronto International BuskerFest for Epilepsy
Toronto International BuskerFest for Epilepsy! is one of North America’s most prominent street performer festivals. This event brings together talent worldwide to create a mesmerizing spectacle of acrobatics, magic, music, and more! Prepare to be captivated by daredevil stunts, hilarious comedy acts, and breathtaking displays of artistry. The BuskerFest is also the largest epilepsy event on the planet, raising awareness and support for those living with epilepsy and their families in our community.
Location: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen Street East
Dates and Time:
-
August 30th to September 2nd,
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August 30th, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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August 31st, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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September 1st, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
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September 2nd, 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Passes start at $10. Grab your tickets here
(Festival)
August 31st to September 2nd – Canadian International Air Show
The acclaimed Canadian International Air Show returns for its 75th edition from August 31st to September 2nd at the CNE Grounds in the Exhibition Place.
Location: Exhibition Place
Dates and Time:
-
August 31st to September 2nd, 12:00 pm – 3:40 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $80. Grab your tickets here.
View event information (Air Show)
As always, you can keep up with all the fun happenings in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area on efosa.