Free & Paid Things to Do in Toronto This Week (August 11-17)
Here we are—right in the middle of August. And we know this is that point in the summer when you just want to squeeze in as much fun as possible without draining your wallet every single day. So, we’ve prepared this list of free & paid things to do in Toronto this week (August 11–17).
Now, scroll through, save a free plan, or pick something paid for when you feel like treating yourself. Then, see where the week goes.
Event details are subject to change at the discretion of the organizers. For the latest updates, visit the official websites or social media accounts.
Things to Do in Toronto This Week (August 11-17)
Free Fun Events
Downtown Movies in the Park x TIFF
One last movie night downtown before the summer wraps. Catch a TIFF-curated film in David Pecaut Square, with snacks, music, and a city skyline.
- When: Every Wednesday, Until August 13, 2025
- Where: David Pecaut Square (215 King St. W., Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://yourexperienceawaits.ca
- Best for: Movie fans, friend groups, and anyone down for a weeknight hang.
I Heart Market Street Music Series
Each week, different artists light up the stage in this friendly urban park. So, after work, swing by, grab a snack, and enjoy the atmosphere.
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- When: Every Tuesday and Wednesday, Until August 27, 2025
- Where: 8 Market Street Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://oldtowntoronto.ca
- Best for: After-work wanderers and live music fans.
Free Flicks at Harbourfront Centre – Nomadland
How about Tuesday evenings by the lake while watching award-winning films outdoors? You can grab some popcorn, get comfy, and enjoy the film.
- When: August 12, 2025
- Where: Harbourfront Centre Theatre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free with email registration
- Website: https://harbourfrontcentre.com
- Best for: Movie fans, date nights, and anyone who loves outdoor views.
The Edwards Summer Music Series
Then, on Thursdays, the Edwards Summer Music Series brings you outdoor concerts at the Toronto Botanical Garden. Rain or shine, these shows offer a relaxed mix of music and nature.
- When: Every Thursday, Until August 21, 2025
- Where: Toronto Botanical Garden (777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://torontobotanicalgarden.ca
- Best for: Garden fans and laid-back music lovers.
- August 14, 2025: Music and Dance from Mary’s Garden
Free Outdoor Movie Nights at Evergreen Brick Works
Looking to cap off your day? Head over to Evergreen Brick Works for outdoor movie nights. With comfy seating, tasty snacks from top vendors, and a covered space, it’s perfect for a relaxed evening.
- When: Every Thursday, Until August 28, 2025
- Where: 550 Bayview Ave Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.evergreen.ca
- Best for: Movie buffs, nature fans, and snack seekers.
- August 14: Wall-E (2008)
Yoga in Trillium Park
If your weekend needs a reset, these free lakeside yoga classes are a solid place to start. Instructors guide all levels, and don’t forget your mat and water bottle.
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- When: Every Saturday & Sunday, Until September 28, 2025
- Where: Trillium Park at Ontario Place (999 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://ontarioplace.com
- Best for: Early risers, outdoor movers, and casual yogis.
Brews N’ Chews
Bring your furry friend and join the bi-monthly pup meetup at the Bark Yard. With tunes, $6 drinks during happy hour, free puppuccinos, and more, it turns a regular night into something fun and social.
- When: August 13, 2025
- Where: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst St. Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://stacktmarket.com
- Best for: Dog lovers and casual socializers.
Summer Music in the Garden
You can enjoy a variety of free waterfront performances this summer with Summer Music in the Garden. It’s the kind of event that makes you appreciate outdoor tunes as the sun sets.
- August 14: Memories Through Song by Belinda Corpuz and Friends
- August 17: What is time for? by Tara Kannangara and Chris Pruden
- Where: Toronto Music Garden (479 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free admission
- Website: https://www.waterfrontbia.com / https://harbourfrontcentre.com
- Best for: Sunset seekers and live music enthusiasts.
Lucky Lion Night Market
For this one? Come hungry and stay curious. This night market’s packed with over 100 vendors, lion dancers, and reasons to stay out late.
- When: August 15-17, 2025
- Where: Seneca Polytechnic College Markham Campus (8 The Seneca Way, Markham)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://luckylionnightmarket.ca
- Best for: Food lovers, night owls, and casual weekend wanderers.
Port Credit Busker Fest (August 15-17)
For an exciting weekend of street theatre, join Port Credit Busker Fest. You’ll enjoy circus acts, magic, acrobatics, juggling, and a new Kidz Zone for the little ones. Also, don’t miss the food trucks, live music, and artisans while enjoying the lively atmosphere in the park.
- When: August 15-17, 2025
- Where: Port Credit Memorial Park (40 Lakeshore Rd E, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://pcbuskerfest.com
- Best for: Families, street performance fans, and anyone looking for a fun weekend.
It’s Ok World Festival
Need a break from the noise? You can visit Trillium Park for two days of care, community, and creativity with plenty of space to just breathe.
- When: August 16-17, 2025
- Where: Trillium Park (955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free. RSVP here.
- Instagram: @itsok.world
- Best for: Artists, community lovers, and anyone looking to recharge outdoors
Taste of Manila 2025
Prefer a full-on celebration? Food stalls, cultural performances, and Filipino pride take over Bathurst and Wilson for Taste of Manila.
- When: August 16-17, 2025
- Where: Corner of Bathurst St. and Wilson Ave., Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://sparccanada.ca/home
- Best for: Food lovers, families, and anyone missing home cooking.
Wheels on the Danforth
If your Saturday calls for cars, music, and family fun, this is it. Classic rides line the streets while performers, vendors, and kids’ activities keep things moving.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: Crossroads of the Danforth (3400 Danforth Ave Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: www.wheelsonthedanforth.com
- Best for: Car lovers, local explorers, and curious weekend walkers.
Japan Festival Canada
Just outside Toronto, Mississauga hosts the largest Japanese festival in the country. And you’ll enjoy the food stalls, tech, music, and plenty of kawaii photo ops.
- When: August 16-17, 2025
- Where: Mississauga Celebration Square (300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.japanfestivalcanada.com
- Best for: Families, culture lovers, and fans of Japanese food and fashion.
Toronto Flower Market
Stop and smell everything. The Toronto Flower Market returns with blooms from 30+ Ontario growers. So, grab your tote, stroll the stalls, and support local businesses.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: CAMH (1001 Queen St West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.torontoflowermarket.ca
- Best for: Plant and flower lovers, gift givers, and weekend market people.
Poshmark Pop-Up: Coffee Club
Coffee and thrift shopping? Poshmark’s Coffee Club at Milky’s is offering free coffee and a chance to grab some free thrift finds. Plus, you can list your treasures with their Smart List AI.
- When: August 16-17, 2025
- Where: Milky’s Coffee (1243 Dundas St. W., Toronto)
- Tickets: Free (must have a Poshmark account and download Poshmark app on your phone)
- Instagram: @poshmarkcanada
- Best for: Coffee lovers and thrift shoppers.
India Day Festival and Grand Parade
If you love parades, music, and good food, you’ve gotta check out the India Day Festival at Nathan Phillips Square. With performances, an international marketplace, and a grand parade, this event brings the best of Indian culture to Toronto.
- When: August 17, 2025
- Where: Nathan Philips Square (Queen Street West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://panoramaindia.org
- Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, and anyone who loves a good parade.
Afraspektion
Still feeling the Carnival energy? Keep it going at Afraspektion, a community festival celebrating Afro-diasporic art, music, and culture.
- When: August 17, 2025
- Where: Riverside Common Park (657 Queen St. E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free. RSVP here.
- Website: https://riverside-to.com
- Best for: Families and culture lovers.
Food, Music, Culture & More
Arcadia Earth x Blue Jays BOGO Entry
Got a Blue Jays game ticket? Show your same-day ticket at Arcadia Earth to get a BOGO entry (buy one ticket and enjoy one FREE). No need to pre-book, just check out the exhibit hours before you go. And don’t miss the Planetarium Experience—only available until September 2nd.
- 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: Blue Jays fans and families.
Mulan International Film Festival
Film buffs, the Mulan International Film Festival is showcasing the best of Chinese-language films. You can catch thought-provoking cinema, attend exhibitions, and soak in all the cool film discussions.
- When: Until August 17, 2025
- Where: Innis Town Hall (2 Sussex Avenue, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://mulanfestival.com
- Best for: Movie lovers and anyone who’s into Chinese cinema.
Dream in High Park: Romeo & Juliet
A low-key evening plan? Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and catch Shakespeare under the trees at High Park. It’s romantic, tragic, and ideal for the outdoor theatre season.
- When: Until August 31, 2025
- Where: High Park Amphitheatre (1873 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.canadianstage.com
- Best for: Date nights and theatre fans.
Symphony in the Gardens
Why not class up your Monday? Head to Casa Loma for an evening of live symphony music, castle views, and garden strolls.
- When: Every Monday, Until September 2, 2025
- Where: Casa Loma (1 Austin Terrace Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://casaloma.ca
- Best for: Couples, music lovers, and anyone looking for a dreamy evening plan.
One Piece-themed Pop-Up Shop
If you’re a One Piece fan, you have to check out this One Piece pop-up shop. You’ll find all kinds of awesome merch from keychains to plushies. Plus, they’ve got those blind boxes that are perfect for collectors.
- 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 anyone looking to add to their anime collection.
Titanic: The Official Exhibition
Still curious about the ship that launched a thousand documentaries? This exhibit brings the Titanic story to life through artifacts, multimedia displays, and VR.
- When: Until September 2025
- Where: YZD (30 Hanover Road, North York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://expo-titanic.com
- Best for: History buffs, museum-goers, and Titanic fans.
MLB Games
Baseball’s better in person, especially with snacks and a lively crowd. The Jays are at home this week, and it’s an easy win for summer plans.
- When: August 12-14, 2025 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Chicago Cubs / August 15-17, 2025 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Texas Rangers
- Where: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: www.mlb.com
- Best for: Sports fans and families.
GLOBL JAM 2025
This week’s your chance to watch rising basketball stars from around the world compete at Mattamy Athletic Centre. So, prepare for fast plays and loud crowds.
- When: August 13-17, 2025
- Where: Mattamy Athletic Centre (50 Carlton St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.globljam.ca
- Best for: Basketball fans and sports-loving teens.
Ricky Gervais – MORTALITY World Tour
Death, aging, and awkward truths—Gervais makes it all weirdly hilarious. Come laugh at life’s least cheerful topics.
- When: August 14, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Comedy lovers.
DQ Canada 23rd Annual Miracle Treat Day
On Miracle Treat Day, every DQ Blizzard sold in Toronto helps raise funds for the SickKids Foundation. So, enjoy your treat, and know you’re helping local kids get the care they need.
- When: August 14, 2025
- Where: Participating DQ locations
- Website: https://www.dairyqueen.com
- Best for: Ice cream lovers and community supporters.
CNE 2025
You already know the deal—the Ex is back. Go for the food, stay for the rides, concerts, dog shows, and yes, the Air Show.
- When: August 15-September 1, 2025
- Where: Exhibition Place, Toronto
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: www.theex.com
- Best for: Families, snack hunters, and anyone seeking summer fun.
LVBL x Fairgrounds: Toronto Takeover
Want to combine sports with a party atmosphere? Fairgrounds and LVBL are taking over Toronto for two days of padel and pickleball madness. Expect intense rallies, tons of fun, live DJs, and prizes.
- When: August 15-16, 2025
- Where: Rosehill (Aug 15) and Leaside (Aug 16)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.visitfairgrounds.com
- Best for: Sports and party lovers.
King’s Plate
It’s not just about the horses. Sure, there’s racing, but there’s also fashion, food, and people-watching.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: Woodbine Racetrack (555 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://woodbine.com
- Best for: Horse racing fans and fashion lovers.
Paris Texas Pop-up at King’s Plate
Looking for a little extra fun at The King’s Plate? Head to the Clubhouse for the Paris Texas pop-up, where you’ll love the drinks, the people, or just the country vibe.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: Woodbine Racetrack (55 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://woodbine.com
- Best for: Anyone who wants a lively, fun atmosphere.
Dino Run at The Bentway
Got early risers at home? Take them to this dino adventure featuring songs, storytelling, and a fun-filled chase around the skate trail.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: The Bentway Skate Trail (250 Fort York Boulevard, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://thebentway.ca
- Best for: Families with kids.
Rosé Disco
Wine, DJs, and a pink-and-white dress code? Rosé Disco brings together 30+ wines, food trucks, charcuterie, and dancefloor energy, all wrapped in a very Instagrammable summer night.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: Fort York (250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.rosedisco.com
- Best for: Wine lovers and party people.
Concerts
Lil Wayne – Tha Carter VI Tour
Been blasting Tha Carter since high school? Same. Lil Wayne’s bringing 20 years of hits to Toronto for one loud night.
- When: August 11, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://shoplilwayne.com
- Best for: Hip hop fans and longtime Wayne listeners.
AJR – Somewhere in the Sky Tour
If you like yelling “Bang!” at concerts, this one must be on your bucket list. AJR is back with an outdoor show and big sing-alongs.
- When: August 12, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.ajrbrothers.com
- Best for: Pop fans, friend groups, and loud concert crews.
A.R. Rahman – The Wonderment Tour
Does your playlist jump from orchestras to EDM? A.R. Rahman mixes emotion, electronics, and cinema-level drama in one epic night of music.
- When: August 12, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.arrahman.com
- Best for: Fans of global music and live show lovers.
Styx & Kevin Cronin + Don Felder: The Brotherhood of Rock Tour
Know every word to “Mr. Roboto? It’s the concert you’ll brag about for months. Three rock legends. One stage. Lots of guitars.
- When: August 13, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Classic rock fans and concert-goers with throwback playlists.
Little Big Town – Summer 2025 Tour
Need some country feels in your week? Little Big Town’s rolling in with a stacked lineup of country favorites and feel-good tunes.
- When: August 14, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.littlebigtown.com
- Best for: Country fans and anyone road-tripping with a playlist.
Stevie Nicks – 2025 North American Tour
Start the weekend with a living legend. Stevie Nicks hits Toronto for one night only, bringing that raw, emotional sound fans never forget.
- When: August 15, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://stevienicksofficial.com
- Best for: Classic rock fans and concertgoers.
Disney’s Descendants & Zombies: Worlds Collide
Next up—something for the younger crowd (and their very patient parents). This high-energy live show brings the worlds of Descendants and Zombies together in one giant sing-along.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://descendantszombieslive.com
- Best for: Kids, tweens, and Disney Channel households.
Joe Perry Project LIVE
On the same day, rock fans get a treat of their own. Aerosmith’s Joe Perry is back with a powerhouse lineup featuring his two Aerosmith bandmates and members of The Black Crowes and Stone Temple Pilots.
- When: August 16, 2025
- Where: History Toronto (1663 Queen St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://joeperry.com
- Best for: Rock fans and concertgoers.
Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts – Love Earth Tour
Close out the weekend with a legend. Neil Young returns with timeless hits, deep cuts, and that unmistakable voice that anyone will instantly love.
- When: August 17 &19, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Longtime fans and classic rock listeners.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out
- Oshawa Rotary Ribfest – August 15-17, 2025 (Lakeview Park, 299 Lakeview Park Ave, Oshawa), Free (donations are appreciated)
- Markham Jazz Festival – August 15-17, 2025 (Main Street Unionville, Markham), Free admission
- Dufferin Film Festival – August 15-17, 2025 (Orangeville Opera House, 87 Broadway, Orangeville), Ticket price varies
- Bike Rave 2025 – August 16, 2025 (Multiple locations), Free admission
- MadeInTO – August 16, 2025 (STACKT Market, 28 Bathurst St., Toronto), Free admission
- Paws in the Park – August 16, 2025 (Toronto Humane Society, 11 River St., Toronto), Free admission
- Irie Vibes Festival – August 16, 2025 (Port Hope Memorial Park, 44 Queen St, Port Hope), Free admission
- The 104th Anniversary Warriors’ Day Parade – August 16, 2025 (Starts at Princes’ Gate, 11 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto), included in CNE admission
- Ghibli Summer Market – August 16-17, 2025 (Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, 6 Sakura Way, Toronto), Starts at $10
- Richmond Hill Craft Beer Festival – August 16, 2025 (Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, 10268 Yonge St, Richmond Hill), Starts at $25
- Wet‘n’Wild – 7855 Finch Ave W, Brampton, Ticket price varies
More…
- https://www.myguidetoronto.com/events/august-2025
- https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/festivals-events-calendar
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/best-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-august-2025
- https://www.hoem.ca/downtown-student/things-to-do-in-toronto-this-summer-2025-bucket-list
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