Here’s What to Do in Toronto This Week (September 1-7)
September’s here, but you’re juggling back-to-school prep, inbox chaos, and that bittersweet “summer’s almost over” feeling. Don’t worry; this list of free & paid things to do in Toronto this week (September 1–7) will help you squeeze in a little more fun before sweater weather fully kicks in.
And if you’re itching for a quick change of scenery, I’ve also included some awesome events happening just outside the city. Because a spontaneous mini getaway? Always a good idea.
Event details are subject to change at the discretion of the organizers. Also, free admission means no tickets are needed, but some free events might still require RSVP or have costs for food, drinks, or activities.
Free & Paid Things to Do in Toronto This Week (Sept 1-7, 2025)
Free Fun Events
Toronto Labour Day Parade
With more than 20,000 people cheering and marching, it’s a lively celebration of workers, unions, and the communities that keep our city moving. So, be sure to bring your camera, grab a spot along the route, and feel the festive atmosphere.
- When: September 1, 2025
- Where: Queen St. W. at University Ave to CNE grounds, Toronto
- Tickets: Free for spectators
- Website: https://www.labourcouncil.ca
- Best for: Families, parade lovers, and anyone looking for a classic Toronto experience
North York Food Fest
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This food festival is packed with flavors from all over the world, from street eats to sweet treats. Beyond the food, there are lion dance performances, bubble shows, fire shows, and arts and crafts stations for the kids.
- When: September 1, 2025
- Where: Centerpoint Mall Parking Lot (6464 Yonge St, North York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @merexa.events
- Best for: Foodies, families, and anyone looking for a full-day festival experience.
College Park: After Hours
At the College Park: After Hours, you can grab a bite, check out the makers’ market, and then settle in for a movie under the stars. Yep, it’s a perfect midweek escape.
- When: September 3, 2025
- Where: 420 Yonge St, Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://downtownyonge.com
- Best for: Date nights and casual hangouts with friends.
Rhode Exclusive In-Store Event
Midweek plans? Drop by Rhode Beauty’s exclusive open house, try out new products, and score a free gift if you shop. It’s a fun excuse to treat yourself before the weekend.
- When: September 4-7, 2025
- Where: Sephora Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.sephora.com
- Best for: Beauty fans.
The Egyptian Coptic Festival
This week, get a taste of Egyptian culture at the Egyptian Coptic Festival at Mississauga Celebration Square. With music, food, vendors, and fun activities for the whole family, it’s a great way to enjoy Egyptian history and traditions.
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- When: September 5-6, 2025
- Where: Celebration Square (300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @egycoptfest
- Best for: Families and culture seekers.
Cabbagetown Art and Craft Show 2025
If you’d rather spend the day browsing local art, then you’ll enjoy the Cabbagetown Art and Craft Show. Head to Riverdale Park West and check out over 160 artists with unique works.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Riverdale Park West (Carlton and Sumach Streets, Cabbagetown)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://cabbagetownartandcraft.org
- Best for: Families, couples, and art enthusiasts looking to support local artists.
Asialicious Carnival 2025
For a weekend full of color, music, and tasty bites, join this three-day festival. It celebrates Asian culture with live performances, food vendors, and interactive cultural showcases.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Woodside Square (1571 Sandhurst Cir, Scarborough)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://asialiciouscarnival.com
- Best for: Foodies, culture lovers, and families.
Trinbago Toronto Festival
Need an island feel without leaving Toronto? The Trinbago Festival brings the energy of Trinidad and Tobago downtown with soca, calypso, and steelpan music, traditional dance, Caribbean eats, and artisan markets.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.trinbago.ca
- Best for: Music lovers, foodies, and families.
World of Jazz Festival
With over 100 musicians and multiple stages, you can listen to jazz, blues, funk, swing, Latin, and more. Pack a blanket for a picnic, let the kids roam the kids’ zone, grab some festival eats, and if you play an instrument, join the late-night jazz jam.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Various Venues, Brampton
- Tickets: Free and ticketed
- Website: https://www.worldofjazz.ca
- Best for: Music fans, families, and festival explorers
Southside Shuffle Blues and Jazz Festival
Three stages, over 40 acts, artisan markets, and food vendors make this one of the city’s most relaxed and fun festivals. Saturday afternoon’s free street party is a perfect way to wander, enjoy music, and get the local feels.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Port Credit Memorial Park (20 Lakeshore Rd East, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free and ticketed
- Website: https://www.southsideshuffle.ca
- Best for: Blues & jazz fans, foodies, and outdoor festival goers.
Taste of The Kingsway 2025
Want a mix of food, music, and family fun? Taste of The Kingsway delivers all that and more. Try dishes from international food vendors, sip at the beverage garden, enjoy live music, watch the Scotiabank Dog Show, or meet NHL alumni. There’s even face painting and entertainment for kids.
- When: September 5-7, 2025
- Where: Bloor Street West between Montgomery Rd and Prince Edward Dr, Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://thekingsway.ca
- Best for: Families, food lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
SMOKE-A-PALOOZA
SMOKE-A-PALOOZA is here and it’s going to be a cheesy, poutine-filled adventure. You can have a free poutine, plus catch live music, watch the poutine-eating championship, and enjoy all the fun.
- When: September 6, 2025
- Where: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://smokespoutinerie.com
- Best for: Poutine lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for a fun festival.
Cabbagetown Festival 2025
Toronto’s longest-running street festival is back, and it’s packed with everything from live DJs and bands to stilt walkers and drag performers. With over 250 vendors, giant games, a kids’ zone, and global eats, it’s like a mini city of fun in one neighborhood.
- When: September 6-7, 2025
- Where: Parliament St. and Carlton St. Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.cabbagetownto.com
- Best for: Families, festival-goers, or anyone looking for a lively weekend.
K-Beauty Layover Toronto Pop-Up
Skincare and K-beauty fans, this pop-up lets you try new products, stock up on favorites, and enjoy a super Instagrammable experience. You’ll love the exclusive deals, fun activities, and photo moments.
- When: September 6-8, 2025
- Where: Downtown Toronto
- Tickets: Free with RSVP
- Instagram: @kbeautylayover
- Best for: Beauty lovers, skincare enthusiasts, and trend seekers.
30th Annual GWN Dragon Boat Challenge
Love the water and a little competition? The GWN Dragon Boat Challenge brings teams from across North America for thrilling races on the waterfront. Cheer for your favorite team, enjoy live music, and grab a snack from nearby vendors.
- When: September 6-7, 2025
- Where: Marilyn Bell Park (1095 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free for spectators; Paddlers pay a fee to race
- Website: www.gwndragonboat.com
- Best for: Sports fans, families, and outdoor enthusiasts
Neutrogena Collagen Bank Pop-Up
Saturday is looking good. Neutrogena’s one-day pop-up has skincare tips, collagen drinks, and free product giveaways. Plus, the photo spots are made for your feed.
- When: September 6, 2025
- Where: The Welcome Market (938 Queen St. W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @neutrogenacanada
- Best for: Skincare lovers.
Loola Cosmetics Pop-Up
Weekend shopping just got an upgrade. Loola’s 2-day pop-up brings sleek, travel-inspired beauty products that go from work to weekend without missing a beat.
- When: September 6-7, 2025
- Where: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://stacktmarket.com
- Best for: Makeup lovers.
The Home and Condo Show
Looking to snag your dream home or condo? The Home and Condo Show is your chance to scope out the best pre-construction projects. Plus, you’ll get exclusive deals and incentives, so it’s worth checking this one out.
- When: September 6-7, 2025
- Where: International Centre (6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Get free tickets here.
- Website: https://homeandcondoshow.com
- Best for: Couples and individuals in the market for a new home or condo.
Maha Onam 2025
Also this week, you can celebrate Kerala’s iconic harvest festival, Onam, in downtown Toronto. From traditional dance performances to tug-of-war and a lively folk dance, this event has everything.
- When: September 7, 2025
- Where: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://mahaonam.ca
- Best for: Families and culture lovers.
Lakeview Garlic Lovers’ Festival
Wrap up the week with garlic everything, from delicacies to garlic merch. Pick up some fresh bulbs to kickstart your fall cooking.
- When: September 7, 2025
- Where: Small Arms Inspection Building (1352 Lakeshore Road, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.creativehub1352.ca
- Best for: Foodies.
The Cake Bash & Market
At The Cake Bash & Market, celebrate Soft Dough Co.’s 5th anniversary with $5 cake slices, local makers, a photo booth, and a fun, casual community atmosphere. Perfect for a weekend treat and a little local shopping.
- When: September 7, 2025
- Where: STACKT market (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://softdoughco.com
- Best for: Dessert lovers and casual weekend fun.
Ontario Wine Girls @ STACKT
Want to meet Chardonnay, Sparkling, and Pinot? The Ontario Wine Girls are here for a wine showdown at STACKT Market. So, see which varietal takes the crown as the afternoon’s favorite.
- When: September 7, 2025
- Where: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://stacktmarket.com
- Best for: Wine lovers and anyone looking for a laid-back afternoon.
Mississauga Hong Kong Festival
If you’re into cultural fusion, food trucks, and fun performances, the Mississauga Hong Kong Festival is your go-to. Plus, all the food and games make it a perfect hangout for the whole crew.
- When: Until September 1, 2025
- Where: Paramount Fine Foods Centre Sportzone North (5600 Rose Cherry Pl, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.worldkongers.org / https://www.mississauga.ca
- Best for: Families and anyone interested in multicultural fun.
T.U. Jazz Fest 2025
Want to end the Labour Day weekend on a chill note? T.U. Jazz Fest is the ideal spot. With over 150 artists performing across the city, you can enjoy smooth jazz, blues, live performances, and a relaxing weekend.
- When: Until September 1, 2025
- Where: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.tujazz.com
- Best for: Jazz fans and anyone looking for a chill music weekend.
Made You Look – Dynamite Clothing Denim Pop-Up
If you’re a fashion fan or just love denim, the Dynamite pop-up lets you grab a pair of jeans, get complimentary embroidery, snap some cute photos, and check out exclusive prizes for Dynamite Collectif members.
- When: Until September 3, 2025
- Where: Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @dynamiteclothing
- Best for: Fashion lovers, denim fans, and Instagram enthusiasts
Wines of Ontario
If you’re a fan of local wines, don’t miss the Wines of Ontario pop-up at STACKT Market. Running through October, it’s the perfect spot to relax, sip premium Ontario VQA wines, and enjoy the outdoor feels.
- When: Until October 31, 2025
- Where: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst St. Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://stacktmarket.com
- Best for: Wine enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys relaxing with a glass of local wine.
Paid & Ticketed Events
Arcadia Earth x Blue Jays BOGO Ticket
If you’re heading to a Blue Jays game, swing by Arcadia Earth before or after. Show your same-day ticket and get a second ticket free. Check out the Planetarium Experience (open until September 2), and enjoy a mind-blowing, interactive adventure.
- When: Until September 28, 2025
- Where: The Well (486 Front St W Building C, Toronto)
- Tickets: BOGO entry (buy one ticket, get one free)
- Website: https://www.arcadiaearth.ca
- Best for: Families, art & tech lovers, and Blue Jays fans.
Le Burger Week Toronto
All week, restaurants across Toronto are serving unique burgers that showcase their style and flavor. Taste, vote, and repeat—it’s a fun excuse to explore the city and enjoy some seriously good food.
- When: September 1-7, 2025
- Where: Multiple venues
- Price: Varies
- Website: https://leburgerweek.com
- Best for: Foodies, burger lovers, and casual diners.
CaribbeanTales International Film Festival – 20th Anniversary
This year marks 20 years of the CaribbeanTales International Film Festival, showing films from the Caribbean and African diaspora. It’s your chance to see incredible stories, unique perspectives, and brilliant talent from across the globe.
- When: September 3-13, 2025
- Where: Multiple venues
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://caribbeantalesfestival.com
- Best for: Film lovers, culture enthusiasts, and festival fans.
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025
For 10 days, the city fills with red carpets, premieres, indie films, and documentaries from around the world. You can also join panel discussions, catch special events, and celebrate the art of filmmaking.
- When: September 4-14, 2025
- Location: Multiple venues across Toronto, including TIFF Bell Lightbox and other partner theaters
- Admission: Check here.
- Website: https://www.tiff.net
Best for: Film lovers and culture seekers.
Vegandale
If you’re hungry and want to eat something tastier than your usual, Vegandale is taking over Woodbine Park with over 100 vegan vendors. You’ll enjoy delicious vegan eats, food, live music, and a fun atmosphere.
- When: September 6, 2025
- Where: Woodbine Park (1695 Queen St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.vegandalefest.com
- Best for: Foodies and anyone looking for a fun food festival with great eats.
Canadian International Air Show
The Canadian International Air Show is wrapping up this week. With breathtaking aerial performances, plus a bunch of cool exhibits and food selection, this event is ideal for anyone who loves flying, history, or just wants to see something cool up in the sky.
- When: Until September 1, 2025
- Where: Marilyn Bell Park (1095 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://cias.org
- Best for: Families, aviation buffs, and those seeking a good jaw-dropping aerial show.
One Piece-themed Pop-Up Shop (Until September 7)
From plushies to keychains, and even blind boxes, this pop-up shop is a dream come true for One Piece fans. You can also DIY your Straw Hat Crew bag or add to your collection of cool merch.
- When: Until September 7, 2025
- Where: Level 1 Centre Court, SQUARE ONE (100 City Centre Drive，Mississauga)
- Instagram: @miniso.canada
- Best for: One Piece fans and anime collectors looking for exclusive merch.
Shake Shack Food Truck
Shake Shack is rolling out its first-ever Canadian food truck, and it’s serving up all the fan favorites. It’s a fun way to satisfy your cravings while hanging out in the sun.
- When: August 30-September 1, 2025
- Where: Woodbine Beach Boardwalk, Toronto
- Instagram: @shakeshackca
- Best for: Foodies and casual hangouts with friends or family.
CNE
Toronto summers aren’t complete without a trip to the CNE. From thrill rides and exciting fair foods to live music and endless vendors, it’s a classic Toronto summer experience.
- When: Until September 1, 2025
- Where: Exhibition Place, Toronto
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: www.theex.com
- Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, foodies, and anyone wanting summer fun
Concerts This Week
Dua Lipa – Radical Optimism Tour
How to kick off the week with music? Dua Lipa is live at Scotiabank Arena, and her Radical Optimism Tour is packed with your favorite hits, upbeat tunes and a high-energy crowd.
- When: September 1-2, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.dualipa.com
- Best for: Friends looking for a high-energy night out and pop music lovers.
The Who – The Song Is Over Farewell Tour
For the rock lovers, The Who is saying goodbye in epic fashion with their Song Is Over Farewell Tour at Budweiser Stage. It’s six decades of legendary music all in one show.
- When: September 2 & 4, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://shop.thewho.com
- Best for: Rock enthusiasts and fans of classic rock legends.
System of a Down, Deftones & Polyphia
If your idea of a good time is screaming along to iconic rock anthems, System of a Down at Rogers Stadium is your perfect night out. With Deftones and Polyphia, prepare for a loud, remarkable show.
- When: September 3 & 5, 2025
- Where: Rogers Stadium (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.systemofadown.com
- Best for: Rock and metal fans looking for a high-energy stadium show.
Tedeschi Trucks Band: Live in 25 North American Tour
Prefer some smooth blues-rock? Tedeschi Trucks Band is at Budweiser Stage with Govt Mule, so prepare for soulful melodies and some of the best blues rock out there.
- When: September 3, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.tedeschitrucksband.com
- Best for: Blues and rock lovers seeking a laid-back, soulful evening.
Morgan Wallen – I’m the Problem Tour
Country megastar Morgan Wallen is making his way to Rogers Centre for his I’m the Problem Tour this week. Also, Miranda Lambert and Gavin Adcock will join this tour.
- When: September 4, 2025
- Where: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://morganwallen.com
- Best for: Country music fans, couples, or friends looking for a night of diverse tunes.
Alabama Shakes: Summer 2025 Reunion Tour
After eight years, Alabama Shakes is back and you can expect soulful rock, killer vocals from Brittany Howard. If you’ve been missing their tunes, this is the reunion tour you’ve been waiting for.
- When: September 6, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.alabamashakes.com
- Best for: Fans of blues rock, soul, and American roots music.
HAIM – I Quit Tour 2025
The HAIM is on the road and making a stop in Toronto with their I Quit Tour. If you enjoy catchy indie-rock tunes, high-energy performances, lots of fun, and of course, those infectious songs, you can’t miss this one.
- When: September 6, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.haimofficial.com
- Best for: Friends looking for a fun, energetic concert or indie-rock fans.
A Day To Remember & Yellowcard – Maximum Fun Tour
Two legendary alt-rock bands, A Day To Remember and Yellowcard, are joining forces for the Maximum Fun Tour .This is a rare chance to see both in one show with expect high-energy performances and nostalgic tunes.
- When: September 7, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Alt-rock fans and anyone looking for a night of big energy and great music.
Other Fun Activities/Events to Enjoy
- Labour Day With The Advocats Big Band – September 1 at The Duke Toronto (1225 Queen St E, Toronto) | $15 cash cover
- Heritage Antique Market: Labour Day Show – September 1 at Centerpoint Mall (6464 Yonge Street, Toronto) | Free admission
- Hard Feelings Mental Health Pop-Up Market – September 6 at 353 Church Street, Toronto | Free admission
- Brew at the Zoo – September 6 at 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto | Ticketed
- Mary & May Pop-Up – September 6-8 at 300 King St E | Free with RSVP
- Toronto International BuskerFest – Until September 1 at Woodbine Park (1590 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto) | Admission by donation
- Flavours by Fire – Until September 1 at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto) | Free admission
- Designer Wear Toronto Pop-Up – Until September 6 at 200 Romina Dr, Concord | Free admission
- Persian Food & Music Festival – Until September 1 at Assembly Park (80 Interchange Wy, Concord)| Free for everyone before 6 pm / Free for kids under 12 and seniors all day
- Bark In the Park TO – Until September 1 at Woodbine Park (1590 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto) | Admission by donation
- Weekend & Holiday Sensory Friendly Early Admission – Until September 1 at Toronto Zoo (2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto) | Ticketed
- Labour Day Weekend At Arcadia Earth – Until September 1 at The Well (486 Front St W, building C, Toronto) | Ticketed
- Wet‘n’Wild – Multiple dates at 7855 Finch Ave W, Brampton | Ticket price varies
What events are on your list for this week? Let us know in the comments.
Looking for more live music? Get the full list of can’t-miss shows and plan your month with our guide to Must-Catch Concerts This September in Toronto | Top Shows to Attend (2025).
More…
- https://www.myguidetoronto.com/events/september-2025
- https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/festivals-events-calendar
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/concerts-this-september-in-toronto-2025
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