Top Things To Do in Toronto This September (2025): Must-See Events & Festivals
September in Toronto feels like someone hit the refresh button. The heat tones down, but the city? Still very much awake. And this list of things to do in Toronto this September (2025) is packed with plans that don’t scream “summer’s over” (at least not yet). I’ve even included a few events outside the city if you’re chasing a little adventure beyond Toronto.
There’s a mix of outdoor hangs, cultural stuff, markets, and concerts. Plus, honestly, September weekends fill up fast. So, better to scroll through now than scramble on Saturday morning.
Event details may change, so be sure to check the official websites or social pages for the latest updates. Also, free admission means no tickets are needed, but some free events might still require RSVP or have costs for food, drinks, or activities.
Things To Do in Toronto This September (2025): Events, Festivals, & More
Free Fun Events
Trinbago Toronto Festival (September 5-7)
A little Caribbean heat? Trinbago Toronto Festival brings Trinidad and Tobago’s culture to Toronto with soca music, calypso bands, delicious food, and lively dance performances.
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- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.trinbago.ca
- Best for: Music lovers, foodies, or anyone looking for a lively festival.
Cabbagetown Art and Craft Show 2025 (September 5-7)
Next, head over to the Cabbagetown Art and Craft Show for a day of browsing unique art and crafts. With over 160 local artists, you’re bound to find something you love.
- Location: Riverdale Park West (Carlton and Sumach Streets, Cabbagetown)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://cabbagetownartandcraft.org
- Best for: Art lovers and anyone looking for unique, handmade treasures.
Smoke-A-Palooza 2025 (September 6)
Love fries, poutine, and 80s rock? Then, kick off September by indulging in FREE poutine at the Smoke-A-Palooza while enjoying daredevil stunts and a killer lineup of tribute bands playing all your favorite 80s hits.
- Location: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://smokespoutinerie.com
- Best for: Foodies and music lovers.
K-Beauty Layover Toronto Pop-Up (September 6-8)
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Got a thing for skincare? K-Beauty Layover lets you test out all the latest products, grab some exclusive deals, and snap a few Instagram-worthy photos while you’re at it.
- Location: Downtown Toronto
- Admission: Free with RSVP
- Instagram: @kbeautylayover
- Best for: Skincare lovers and beauty junkies.
30th Annual GWN Dragon Boat Challenge (September 6-7)
It’s paddling up for one of the biggest boat races in North America. The GWN Dragon Boat Challenge brings teams from across Canada and the U.S. for a weekend of high-energy races and a full-on waterfront party.
- Location: Marilyn Bell Park (1095 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free; Paddlers pay a fee to race
- Website: www.gwndragonboat.com
- Best for: Outdoor lovers and festival goers.
Maha Onam 2025 (September 7)
From energetic tug-of-war to colorful dance performances, this festival gives you a glimpse into Kerala’s traditions. The live music and traditional beats will have you tapping your feet, and you’ll get to enjoy authentic Kerala dishes.
- Location: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://mahaonam.ca
- Best for: Families and culture enthusiasts.
Mexican Day Toronto (September 12-15)
From delicious food and lively music to Lucha Libre and dancing, this festival brings Mexico’s spirit right to Nathan Phillips Square. It’s like a mini Mexican vacation without leaving Toronto.
- September 12: Colores de México art exhibit – Toronto City Hall
- September 13–14: Mexican Fiesta – Nathan Phillips Square
- September 15: Flavors and Traditions of Mexican cuisine – Participating restaurants across Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://mexicantoronto.ca
- Best for: Families and anyone craving a fun cultural experience.
Philippine Festival Mississauga (September 12-14)
A fun way to spend your weekend? The Philippine Festival Mississauga offers everything from delicious Filipino food to live music, dance performances, and cultural games. It’s a celebration of Filipino heritage and an opportunity to try mouthwatering street food and desserts.
- Location: Celebration Square (300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.philfestsauga.ca
- Best for: Families, friends, and anyone looking to experience Filipino culture and cuisine.
Toronto New Home and Condo Expo (September 13–14)
Scrolling real estate listings again? But this expo lets you explore actual options, meet builders, get design inspo, and finally ask someone if “maintenance fees” are real.
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Building – Room 205 and 206 (255 Front St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free. More info here.
- Website: www.newhomeandcondoexpo.ca
- Best for: Homebuyers and curious browsers.
Roncesvalles Polish Festival (September 13–14)
This isn’t just about pierogis, though yes, there will be so many pierogis. Roncy turns into a full-blown celebration of Polish culture with music, dance, and food that’ll make you want to cancel all other plans.
- Location: Roncesvalles Village (Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.polishfestival.ca
- Best for: Foodies and festival fans.
Toronto Flower Market (September 13)
This flower market is a love letter to Ontario-grown blooms. It’s a place where you leave with a bouquet, a new fave florist, and possibly soil on your shoes.
- Location: CAMH (1001 Queen St West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.torontoflowermarket.ca
- Best for: Plant lovers and weekend wanderers.
Etobicoke Ribfest (September 19-21)
Smoked ribs. Dino bones. Mini donuts. Cold beer. Add live music and lakeside views and you’ve got yourself a weekend. Etobicoke Ribfest is back with an award-winning BBQ, tribute bands, and a fun atmosphere.
- Location: Colonel Sam Smith Park (1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Free with $5 charitable donation suggested.
- Website: www.ribfestx.com
- Best for: BBQ lovers and festival goers.
RELISH The Foodie Event 2025 (September 19-21)
This September, you’ve got three days to satisfy your foodie cravings at RELISh The Foodie Event at Cloverdale Mall. With food trucks, local vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect way to explore Toronto’s best flavors.
- Location: Cloverdale Mall (250 The East Mall, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://mycloverdale.com
- Best for: Foodies, families, and anyone who loves to try new flavors.
VegTO Fest (September 20-21)
Vegan or not, this festival brings the flavour. Over 200 vendors are setting up shop with plant-based eats, cool merch, and more free samples than you can carry. Also, enjoy live music, games, and panels.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.veg.ca
- Best for: Foodies and plant-based explorers.
Pape Village Block Party (September 20-21)
The Pape Village Block Party is the ultimate celebration of community. Two days of live music, arts, crafts, and a kids’ “fun zone” with bouncy castles. Plus, there’s a vintage car show.
- Location: Pape Avenue between Mortimer and Gamble Aves
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.papevillageblockparty.com
- Best for: Families and friends.
Toronto Garlic Festival (September 28)
Garlic lovers, your favorite festival is back, bringing all things garlic, from delicious food to fresh Ontario-grown garlic. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try roasted garlic ice cream.
- Location: Spadina Road between Davenport Road and Dupont street, Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://torontogarlicfestival.ca
- Best for: Foodies, families, and anyone who loves garlic.
Food, Music, Culture & More
Toronto International Film Festival 2025 (September 4-14)
If you’re a movie buff, you can’t miss the TIFF this year. It’s one of the world’s top film festivals, bringing films, premieres, panel discussions, and plenty of star power to Toronto.
- 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, cinephiles, or anyone who wants to rub elbows with stars.
Toronto Vegandale Festival (September 6)
No meat? No problem. Vegandale is back with deep-fried vegan everything—burgers, donuts, mac and cheese, you name it. There’s music, merch, and too many food options.
- Location: Woodbine Park (1695 Queen St E, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.vegandalefest.com
- Best for: Food lovers and plant-based eaters.
The National Franchise Show (September 13-14)
Ever dreamed of owning your own business? At The National Franchise, meet top franchise reps, explore different industries, and find out how you can start your very own business venture.
- Location: The International Centre (6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga)
- Admission: Starts at $15
- Website: https://www.franchiseshowinfo.com
- Best for: Aspiring business owners or anyone curious about franchise opportunities.
Fall Canadian Pet Expo (September 13-14)
The Fall Canadian Pet Expo is the ideal place to connect with pet-focused vendors, get unique pet accessories, and learn about your furry friends. It’s not just for cats and dogs; there are also expos for reptiles, aquatic animals, and plants.
- Location: The International Centre (6900 Airport Road, Mississauga)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://canadianpetexpo.ca
- Best for: Pet owners and animal lovers.
Greater Toronto Card Show (September 14)
Looking to expand your collection, find rare cards, or just meet fellow collectors? You’ll love being at the Greater Toronto Card Show. It’s a fun way to get into the hobby or level up your collection.
- Location: Montecassino Hotel And Event Venue (3710 Chesswood Drive, North York)
- Admission: Click here.
- Website: https://gtcardshow.com
- Best for: Collectors and hobbyists.
Picklefest Food & Drink Festival (September 20-21)
This isn’t a joke. Toronto is throwing a full-on pickle party. Picklefest is two days of briny goodness, fermented weirdness, and crunchy snacks that go way beyond your average sandwich topping.
- Location: Henderson Brewing Co. (128a Sterling Rd., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.picklefestcanada.com
- Best for: Pickle lovers and curious snackers.
All Elite Wrestling: All Out (September 20)
Big news for wrestling fans—AEW is finally making its way to Toronto. So, prepare for surprise entrances and loud chants. Honestly, the drama alone is worth the ticket.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.allelitewrestling.com
- Best for: Wrestling fans and live sports lovers.
Future Festival World Summit (September 23–25)
Need a break from your inbox? This summit gathers some of the smartest minds from NASA, Google, and Starbucks to talk trends, big ideas, and what’s next.
- Location: Multiple venues.
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.futurefestival.com
- Best for: Business folks and future thinkers.
Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland (September 26 – November 1)
If you’re looking to get seriously spooked, Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland is where the thrills are. You can explore creepy Scare Zones, haunted mazes, and live shows that’ll make you jump.
- Location: 9580 Jane St, Vaughan
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://www.canadaswonderland.com
- Best for: Horror fans and thrill-seekers.
Halloween Nights of Lights (September 27 – November 1)
Want to see Halloween in lights? Halloween Nights of Lights is back with 1.5 million LED lights synced to Halloween tunes. Also, expect new photo ops, inflatable fun, and even carnival rides.
- Location: CF Sherway Gardens(25 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://nightsoflights.ca
- Best for: Families, date nights, or anyone who loves a light show.
Camp Spooky (September 27 – November 2)
If you’ve got little ones and want some Halloween fun without the scary stuff, check out Camp Spooky at Canada’s Wonderland. It’s packed with Halloween treats, fun activities, and a PEANUTS Costume Party.
- Location: Canada’s Wonderland (9580 Jane St, Vaughan)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://www.canadaswonderland.com
- Best for: Families with young kids.
Pumpkinville 2025 (September 27 – November 1)
For a perfect fall experience, head to Pumpkinville. With 25,000+ pumpkins, giant pumpkin sculptures, and a candy forest, it’s an Instagram dream come true. Plus, there’s a light display made for fall photos.
- Location: CF Sherway Gardens(25 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
- Admission: Free with Halloween Nights of Lights admission
- Website: https://www.pumpkinville.ca
- Best for: Families, photographers, or anyone who loves the fall atmosphere.
Toronto Halloween Show 2025 (September 27-28)
For all things Halloween, you’ll find creepy decorations, special effects makeup demos, magic shows, and even a haunted walk-through experience at the Toronto Halloween Show. It’s your one-stop shop for everything spooky, from costumes to creepy props.
- Location: Queen Elizabeth Building, Exhibition Place, Toronto
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://www.thetorontohalloweenshow.com
- Best for: Halloween lovers, families, or anyone looking to get into the spooky spirit.
A Lake Story by Melissa McGill (September 27-28)
For two days, catch an incredible sight as over 100 canoes glide across Toronto’s waterfront, each carrying color field paintings made with pigments from Lake Ontario. It’s a unique art experience, where nature and creativity come together, powered by the wind and the waters.
- Location: Toronto Waterfront
- Website: https://thebentway.ca
- Best for: Art lovers and nature enthusiasts.
One Piece-Themed Pop-Up Shop (Until September 7)
The pop-up at MINISO is the ultimate treasure chest for One Piece fans with exclusive merch, plushies, blind boxes, and photo ops. It’s your chance to grab some must-have collectibles before they’re gone.
- Location: Level 1 Centre Court, SQUARE ONE (100 City Centre Drive，Mississauga)
- Instagram: @miniso.canada
- Best for: One Piece fans and anime collectors.
MLB Games – Blue Jays Home Series (Select Days)
The Jays are back in town for a mid-September home stretch, and there’s nothing like a late-summer ball game at the dome. Who knows… you might catch a walk-off.
- Location: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.mlb.com
- Best for: Baseball fans and weekend hangouts.
Concerts
Dua Lipa – Radical Optimism Tour (September 1–2)
Starting the month strong with a disco-pop dance party? Dua Lipa brings her Radical Optimism era to town. And yes, expect strut-worthy beats and a crowd that knows every word to “Levitating.”
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.dualipa.com
- Best for: Pop fans and dance lovers.
The Who – The Song Is Over Farewell Tour (September 2 & 4)
So this is it. After six decades of rock anthems, The Who is saying goodbye and they’re doing it loud with soaring guitar solos, and rock opera drama. It’s a big moment in rock history, and Toronto gets two nights of it.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thewho.com
- Best for: Rock fans and longtime listeners.
System of a Down & Deftones (September 3 & 5)
Feeling a little chaotic? This lineup gets it. System of a Down and Deftones hit the stage together where your teenage playlist comes to life. Polyphia’s opening, so get there early and let your ears adjust.
- Location: Rogers Stadium (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.systemofadown.com
- Best for: Metal fans and high-energy crowds.
Morgan Wallen – I’m the Problem Tour (September 4-5)
A cowboy boot collector or just love a good sad banger? Morgan Wallen’s tour is worth showing up for. He’s got hits and a crowd that turns every song into a singalong.
- Location: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.morganwallen.com
- Best for: Country fans and weekend concertgoers.
Comeback Kid — Wake the Dead 20th Anniversary Tour (September 6)
Hard to believe it’s been 20 years since Wake the Dead shook up the hardcore scene. Comeback Kid kicks off their September Canadian tour in Toronto, and they’re playing the entire 2005 album live.
- Location: Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Avenue, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.comeback-kid.com
- Best for: Hardcore fans and longtime CBK listeners.
The Lumineers – Automatic World Tour (September 8-9)
The Lumineers are back with their brand of boots-stomping, heartstring-pulling folk rock. From “Ho Hey” to “Ophelia,” the singalongs write themselves.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.thelumineers.com
- Best for: Folk-rock fans and live music lovers.
Lady Gaga – The Mayhem Ball Tour (September 10, 11 & 13)
This September, get your most extra outfit ready because Gaga’s bringing the drama. The Mayhem Ball is theatrical, loud, and packed with the new album plus all the classics.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.ladygaga.com
- Best for: Little Monsters and pop fans.
Mt. Joy Live in Toronto (September 11)
If indie rock had a comfort setting, Mt. Joy would be it. They’re bringing that warm, slightly emotional, windows-down-on-the-highway kind of energy to Toronto for one night only.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.hwhf.mtjoyband.com
- Best for: Indie fans and live music lovers.
Pulp – 2025 North American Fall Tour (September 16)
If you’ve ever dramatically whispered “Common People” into your pillow, this night’s for you. Pulp is making a rare Toronto stop, and yep, expect swagger and nostalgia.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.welovepulp.info
- Best for: Britpop fans and longtime listeners.
Kali Uchis – The Sincerely, Tour (September 17)
Kali’s back with a fresh album and a whole mood. She floats between R&B, pop, and reggaeton like it’s nothing. And her live shows? Dreamy, smooth, and full of style.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.shopkaliuchis.com
- Best for: R&B fans and vibe lovers.
Halestorm & Lindsey Stirling – nEVEREST Duality Tour (September 19)
Ever seen a violinist and a metal band share a stage? Halestorm’s powerhouse energy meets Lindsey Stirling’s epic violin work in one genre-bending, headbanging night.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.lindseystirling.com / www.halestormrocks.com
- Best for: Rock fans and live show lovers.
The World of Hans Zimmer – A New Dimension (September 21)
No, Hans won’t be on stage but his music absolutely will be. This live concert blends a full orchestra with cinematic clips from movies.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.worldofhanszimmer.com
- Best for: Film score fans and orchestral music lovers.
Lorde – Ultrasound Tour (September 24)
She’s moody, mysterious, and very much back. Lorde is blessing Toronto with new tracks from her upcoming album Virgin, plus the emotional anthems we’ve all whispered on solo walks.
- Location: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.lorde.co.nz
- Best for: Lorde fans and indie pop lovers.
Lainey Wilson – Whirlwind World Tour (September 25)
Country night is calling and Lainey Wilson is bringing the full-on southern swagger. With Muscadine Bloodline and Lauren Watkins along for the ride, enjoy a mix of country, rock, and radio-ready crowd-pleasers.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.laineywilson.com
- Best for: Country fans and weekend concert-goers.
Shawn Mendes – On The Road Again Tour (September 28)
Shawn Mendes is celebrating 10 years of Handwritten with his On The Road Again Tour, and this is your chance to hear all those hits live. It’s a night full of nostalgia as he belts out the songs that made you swoon.
- Location: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://www.shawnmendesofficial.com
- Best for: Fans of Shawn Mendes and music lovers.
If you’re looking for more live music and concert events this month, be sure to check out our blog Must-Catch Concerts This September in Toronto | Top Shows to Attend (2025).
More…
- https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/festivals-events-calendar
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/concerts-this-september-in-toronto-2025
- https://www.myguidetoronto.com/events/september-2025
- https://www.blogto.com/events
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