There are a ton of events going on around the city, and fun doesn’t need to cost you your first born. We’ve compiled a list of fun and FREE activities to do this summer in Toronto. From music to film, food and yoga, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Enjoy.
Health & Fitness
Yoga for all levels | July 10 – August 28
On every Thursday from 6:30-7:30, yoga instructor Eric Anastacio teaches yoga for all levels. Yoga for the heart, for the runners, for stress and even a full experience yoga. This event takes place by the water, near the Harbourfront Centre. There are also Tai Chi classes every Tuesday night.
Live Green Festival | July 19
Celebrate environmentally friendly lifestyle with food, performances, “green” products, and more. Featuring live performances in Yonge-Dundas Square, a TD Kids’ Zone, green activities and demonstrations, as well as delicious local and organically grown foods.
Food & Drink
Hot & Spicy Food Festival | August 16-17
Watch iron chefs compete in a battle of spicy food, go on a hot pepper scavenger hunt, and push your limits of spice the weekend of August 16-17. If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen.
Krinos’ Taste of the Danforth | August 9 – 11
Celebrating its’ 20th year, Taste of the Danforth wants you to go and taste delicious food in the heart of Greek town. Running from August 9-11, this event is free for everyone, just pay individual vendors. Fill your weekend with good food and free entertainment.
Music & Film
Indie Fridays at Yonge-Dundas | July 4 – September 5
Every Friday night, Yonge-Dundas Square grooves to great indie bands. This summer you can catch Sam Cash and the Romantic Dogs, Dwayne Gretzky, Young Galaxy, and many more.
Christie Pitts Film Festival | July 6 – August 10
Grab your friends and bring some popcorn. Every Sunday night, Christie Pitts will be screening movies for free. It’s BOYB (bring your own blanket) and is sure to be a great night.
Check out our full list of 10 great places to catch a movie under the stars this summer here.
Other Entertainment
Scotiabank Busker Fest | August 21 – 24
The Scotiabank Busker Fest makes its return to Yonge St. for four days and nights of entertainment. The festival is entirely organized by and in support of Epilepsy Toronto, a non-profit organization that supports those living with epilepsy in Toronto. Comedians, contortionists, musicians, magicians, fire jugglers, acrobats, aerial artists, clowns and daredevils all come together for North America’s largest street performer festival.
Cherry Cola’s Sinful Sundays
Come be entertained by some of Canada’s best amateur burlesque performers. Every Sunday at 9pm, be dazzled by pinup and retro burlesque performers. Arrive early, the venue fills up quickly, and you’re going to want to be close to the act, as dancers will often flirt with the crowd.
For the Kids
High Park Zoo
Makes friends with an alpaca or a peacock! If you’re looking for something to do with the little ones this summer, the High Park Zoo is a great option. It’s free and will easily keep them entertained.
Riverdale Farm
Take the kids to a farm. Visit the farm animals and tour the 7.5 acre grounds at Riverdale Farm, located in a park setting in the heart of the downtown community of Cabbagetown.
High Park Swimming Pool
If you just taught the little tyke(s) how to swim, why not take them to the High Park swimming pool? Leisure swim is from 12:00pm to 3:45pm and 5pm to 6:45pm.
You can also check out our lists of Toronto’s best public pools and beaches for more places to get your doggie paddle on.