Free & Paid Things to Do in Toronto This Week (August 18-24)
August is winding down, but that doesn’t mean your summer fun has to. If you’re looking for ways to make the most of it, this guide to free & paid things to do in Toronto this week (August 18–24) has plenty of ideas to keep things interesting.
Maybe you’re leaning toward the simple stuff this week, like grabbing an iced coffee or catching a free outdoor concert after work. But then again, some days just call for a little treat. So, why not check out that concert you’ve been eyeing or finally hit that pop-up patio with friends? Spending a bit can turn a random night into something you’ll be talking about for weeks.
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 events might still require RSVP or have costs for food, drinks, or activities.
Free Fun Events
HARIBO’S WORLD OF PHANTASIA POP-UP
Got a sweet tooth? HARIBO’s World of Phantasia offers interactive activities, FREE candy samples, and the chance to create your very own AI creature.
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- When: August 19-24, 2025
- Where: CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Level 2, near Alo)
- Tickets: Free admission (candy available for purchase with proceeds to SickKids)
- Instagram: @haribocanada
- Best for: Families and candy lovers.
Arts in the Parks: The Flying Machine
For a fun outdoor show, The Flying Machine offers an aerial and acrobatic performance with artists on stilts, rope, and trapeze. It tells the story of an inventor who builds a time-traveling machine.
- When: August 20-24, 2025
- Where: Flagstaff Park (42 Mercury Rd, Etobicoke)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://herciniarts.com
- Best for: Families, kids, or anyone looking for a fun, outdoor experience.
1664 RE:COLLECTION POP-UP
1664 is bringing a pop-up experience that’s a mix of vintage fashion and craft beer. Enjoy FREE 1664 beer, shop some retro styles, and discover surprise mystery merch while grooving to a live DJ.
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- When: August 21-23, 2025
- Where: 938 Queen St W, Toronto
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @1664canada
- Best for: Beer lovers and vintage fashion fans.
TAIWANfest
TAIWANfest highlights cultural exchange, with performances, food, exhibitions, and films. Plus, there are loads of free events.
- When: August 22-24, 2025
- Where: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://torontotaiwanfest.ca
- Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, and anyone who enjoys a good cultural mash-up.
Mississauga ItalFest
Craving pasta, live music, and a whole lot of Italian culture? Mississauga ItalFest is the perfect way to enjoy everything Italian, from pasta-eating contests to bocce ball and even Italian folk music.
- When: August 22-23, 2025
- Where: Mississauga Celebration Square (City Centre Drive, Mississauga)
- Tickets: Free admission (VIP tickets available)
- Website: https://mississaugaitalfest.com
- Best for: Foodies, families, or anyone who loves Italian culture.
Toronto Korean Festival
The Toronto Korean Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and it’s packed with everything you love about Korean culture, from K-pop performances to taekwondo demonstrations. Of course, don’t miss the food—over 30 booths will be serving tasty Korean street food.
- When: August 22-24, 2025
- Where: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St., North York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.torontokfest.ca
- Best for: Korean culture lovers, foodies, or anyone who loves a lively festival.
Mabuhay Philippines Festival
Who’s up for a Filipino feast? Mabuhay Philippines Festival is bringing the best Filipino food, music, fashion, and art to Toronto. With over 50 vendors and a basketball tourney on the side, it’s a weekend full of fun, flavour, and Filipino pride.
- When: August 23-24, 2025
- Where: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St. West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @mabuhay_to
- Best for: Food lovers and anyone interested in Filipino culture.
Afro-Carib Fest 2025
The Afro-Carib Fest is back with everything you could want, including live performances, a marketplace full of cultural treasures, and mouth-watering food from Africa and the Caribbean. Plus, there are raffle draws and a kids’ zone.
- When: August 23-24, 2025
- Where: Thomson Memorial Park (1005 Brimley Road, Scarborough)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: www.afrocaribfestival.com
- Best for: Those who love music, food, and celebrating cultures.
Yorkville Murals
Yorkville’s streets are about to be transformed with massive murals, live DJs, and art installations. Check out the vibrant mix of art and culture with everything from a huge rooftop mural to wellness workshops and live music.
- When: August 23-24, 2025
- Where: Yorkville Avenue (Bellair St to Hazelton Ave), 99 Yorkville Ave, Toronto
- Tickets: Free. Select events are ticketed.
- Website: https://yorkvillemurals.com
- Best for: Art lovers and anyone looking to explore Toronto’s creative side.
Butterfly Festival
It’s Monarch season. So, join the Butterfly Festival at Tommy Thompson Park to see these beautiful creatures before their long migration. There’s a butterfly walk, games, and fun activities to learn about these incredible pollinators.
- When: August 23, 2025
- Where: Tommy Thompson Park (1 Leslie Street, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://trca.ca
- Best for: Nature lovers and families with young kids.
Sankofa Day
Celebrate a historic day with Toronto’s first Sankofa Day at Sankofa Square. This full-day event features a mix of cultural programming, including Black-led community runs, Indigenous and African ceremonies, performances, and a huge DJ set to close the night.
- When: August 23, 2025
- Where: Sankofa Square (1 Dundas St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.sankofasquare.ca
- Best for: Those interested in cultural celebrations and community events.
Tamil Fest 2025
Tamil Fest is back with over 275,000 people expected. There’s live entertainment, delicious food, and vibrant performances that’ll give you a taste of Tamil culture, from traditional to modern.
- When: August 23-24, 2025
- Where: Markham Road, Scarborough
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.tamilfest.ca
- Best for: Music fans, foodies, and anyone who loves cultural celebrations.
Free Flicks – The Sound of Music
Free movies? Grab some popcorn and head to Harbourfront Centre for Free Flicks. Watching a movie by the lake on a warm summer night? It’s a yes.
- When: Every Tuesday, Until August 26, 2025
- Where: Harbourfront Centre Theatre (235 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free with email registration
- Website: https://harbourfrontcentre.com
- Best for: Film buffs and chill summer hangs.
- Best for: Movie lovers and anyone who enjoys outdoor cinema.
Berczy Beats
Lunchtime just got better with live music at Berczy Park. You can grab lunch, hang out by the famous dog fountain, and enjoy some great tunes.
- When: Every Wednesday, Until August 27, 2025
- Where: Berczy Park (35 Wellington St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://oldtowntoronto.ca
- Best for: Anyone who loves live music and wants a fun lunch break.
Aveeno Healing Ointment Pop-Up
Need some pampering? The Aveeno Healing Ointment Pop-Up offers wellness and relaxation. Stop by for a FREE oat milk latte and get your hands on some Aveeno goodies (while supplies last).
- When: August 23-24, 2025
- Where: Found Coffee (189 Shaw Street, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @aveenoca
- Best for: Wellness lovers and skincare enthusiasts.
Kalamansi Fest
This Sunday, you can try new flavors with Kalamansi Fest at STACKT Market. It’s Toronto’s first-ever festival dedicated to the Filipino lime, and it’s packed with flavors, food, and local vendors.
- When: August 24, 2025
- Where: STACKT MARKET (28 Bathurst St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @barkada.mrkt
- Best for: Foodies, anyone craving fresh flavors, or fans of Filipino cuisine.
Summer Music in the Garden
Here’s a simple plan: enjoy some free live music by the water. Summer Music in the Garden features good tunes, fresh air, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- When: August 24, 2025 – A Little Afternoon Music by Charlotte Siegel and Nate Ben-Horin
- Where: Toronto Music Garden (479 Queens Quay West, Toronto)
- Admission: Free admission
- Website: https://www.waterfrontbia.com / https://harbourfrontcentre.com
- Best for: Music lovers and anyone who wants to enjoy summer outdoors.
Ticketed & Paid Events
Arcadia Earth x Blue Jays BOGO Ticket
Already got your Blue Jays ticket? Show your same-day ticket at Arcadia Earth and get a free second one. Also, don’t forget to check out the Planetarium Experience while you’re there (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.
The Origin of Light Drone Show
On August 19, The Origin of Light drone show at Fort York is lighting up the night with hundreds of choreographed drones, a live orchestra, and a killer performance by Arlene Paculan. It’s a mind-blowing mix of tech, art, and music that’ll have you looking up or snapping some photos for the ‘Gram.
- When: August 19, 2025
- Where: Fort York National Historic Site (250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.theoriginoflight.com
- Best for: Tech lovers and art enthusiasts.
Zakir Khan Live!
It’s an evening full of laughter with India’s beloved comedian, Zakir Khan. With his unique mix of wit and wisdom, Zakir takes you on a journey through his life, sharing hilarious anecdotes and relatable stories.
- When: August 24, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://zakirkhanlive.com
- Best for: Comedy lovers and fans of Zakir Khan’s stand-up.
Dream in High Park: Romeo & Juliet
Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is playing in High Park, and it’s the perfect date night. So, pack a picnic and cosy up with blankets while enjoying this timeless love story under the stars.
- 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 night or anyone who loves a classic love story.
The Planetarium Experience at Arcadia Earth (Until August 31)
This 20-minute 360° journey takes you deep into our planet’s story—think of it as an eye-opening, eco-friendly adventure.
- When: Until August 31, 2025
- Where: 486 Front St W building C, Toronto
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://thewelltoronto.com / https://www.arcadiaearth.ca
- Best for: Nature lovers and anyone into environmental causes.
CNE
It’s not summer in Toronto until you’ve had a day at the CNE. This classic event brings all the thrills you could want, including rides, games, live music, and of course, tasty foods.
- When: Until September 1, 2025
- Where: Exhibition Place, Toronto
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.theex.com
- Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, or anyone who loves classic fair fun.
Symphony in the Gardens (Every Monday, Until September 2)
Want to enjoy live music with a view? Symphony in the Gardens lets you listen to the orchestra while you take in the gorgeous castle and city views.
- When: Every Monday, Until September 2, 2025
- Where: Casa Loma (1 Austin Terrace Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://casaloma.ca
- Best for: Music lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful, chill evening.
Titanic: The Official Exhibition
Ever wanted to explore the history of the Titanic? This exhibition is filled with real artifacts, interactive experiences, and all the history behind the ship’s tragic story.
- When: Until September 2025
- Where: YZD (30 Hanover Road, North York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://expo-titanic.com
- Best for: History buffs and Titanic fans.
Concerts
Alison Krauss and Union Station, Jerry Douglas & Willie Watson – Arcadia Tour
If you’re into bluegrass or just enjoy great live music, Alison Krauss and Union Station are performing with Jerry Douglas and Willie Watson. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek at some new tunes before they drop.
- When: August 19, 2025
- Where: Massey Hall (178 Victoria St, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://alisonkrauss.com
- Best for: Bluegrass fans and live music lovers.
Chris Brown: Breezy Bowl XX Platinum Tour
Chris Brown is bringing his iconic moves and chart-topping hits to Toronto. From his early days to his latest album, 11:11, this is one show you won’t want to miss if you love R&B, dancing, and a killer performance.
- When: August 19-20, 2025
- Location: Rogers Stadium (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: https://www.chrisbrownworld.com
- Best for: R&B fans and dance lovers.
Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts – Love Earth World Tour
Neil Young’s got his band, The Chrome Hearts, ready to rock out. So, prepare to hear those timeless classics along with a few surprises thrown in.
- When: August 19, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Neil Young fans and classic rock lovers.
Tate McRae: Miss Possessive Tour
Tate McRae is coming to town with her honest, raw lyrics and pop hits. With her new album So Close To What, you’re in for an emotional yet energetic performance.
- When: August 19-20, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.tatemcrae.com
- Best for: Pop music fans and fans of emotional lyrics.
Jonas Brothers – JONAS20: Living the Dream Tour
The Jonas Brothers are celebrating 20 years in the music scene, and they’re bringing their biggest hits to the stage. Of course, your inner fan will be singing along all night.
- When: August 21, 2025
- Where: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://jonasbrothers.com
- Best for: Jonas Brothers fans and pop lovers.
Kidz Bop Live! – Certified BOP Tour
If you’re looking for a family-friendly concert, go for Kidz Bop’s live show. The kids will love the pop hits performed by talented young stars, and you might even catch yourself singing along.
- When: August 21, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://kidzbop.com
- Best for: Families and anyone who loves kid-friendly music.
My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade Tour
A night full of alt-rock nostalgia is ahead. Expect all the emo anthems from the album and a solid opening by The Pixies.
- When: August 22, 2025
- Where: Rogers Centre (1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: www.mychemicalromance.com
- Best for: Emo fans and My Chemical Romance diehards.
Blue Rodeo: 40th Anniversary Tour
Blue Rodeo is hitting the road for their 40th anniversary. With their signature blend of folk, country, and rock, they’re sure to give fans a night full of nostalgia and great tunes.
- When: August 23, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.bluerodeo.com
- Best for: Long-time fans and Canadian roots rock lovers.
Kailash Kher and Kailasa
Kailash Kher and Kailasa are bringing their unique fusion of sufi, folk, and contemporary sounds to Toronto. With Kailash’s soulful voice leading the way, expect a musical experience that transcends borders and generations.
- When: August 23, 2025
- Where: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://tolive.com
- Best for: Fans of soulful music and Indian fusion.
Nine Inch Nails – Peel It Back Tour 2025
Nine Inch Nails is back on stage with their Peel It Back tour. So, prepare for a powerful performance of industrial rock at its finest, with Trent Reznor and the band delivering one of the best live shows around.
- When: August 23, 2025
- Where: Scotiabank Arena (40 Bay St., Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.nin.com
- Best for: Nine Inch Nails fans and lovers of hard-hitting live rock.
Coheed and Cambria & Taking Back Sunday: 2025 Tour
Coheed and Cambria, along with Taking Back Sunday, let Toronto experience their alt-rock hits. Plus, there’ll be some awesome special guests.
- When: August 24, 2025
- Where: Budweiser Stage (909 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.livenation.com
- Best for: Alt-rock fans and 2000s music lovers.
OASIS LIVE ’25
Oasis is back after years apart, and they’re hitting the stage with all the classic rock anthems you know and love. If you grew up listening to their songs, you can’t miss this reunion tour.
- When: August 24-25, 2025
- Where: Rogers Stadium (105 Carl Hall Road, Toronto)
- Admission: Click here.
- Website: https://www.oasisinet.com
- Best for: Oasis fans and rock music lovers.
Evangelion Wind Symphony
For Evangelion fans, this is a big one. The Evangelion Wind Symphony is performing iconic songs, and Yoko Takahashi, who brought us that legendary anime track, will be there too.
- When: August 26, 2025
- Where: Meridian Hall (1 Front St E, Toronto)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://kashamaraproductions.com
- Best for: Evangelion fans and anime music lovers.
Other Events & Activities to Check Out
- FREE Admission to Royal Ontario Museum – August 19 at Queens Park, Toronto | Tickets are required
- Dancing on the Square – Country Line Dancing with Carolyn Jurek Featuring Jessie T – August 20 at Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto | Free with email registration
- CPKC Women’s Open – August 20-24 at Mississauga Gold and Country Club (1725 Mississauga Rd) | Ticketed
- Summerfest on Main – August 21-24 at Mainstreet Newmarket | Free admission
- Aurora Ribfest – August 22-24 at Machell Park, 24 Aurora Heights Drive, Aurora | Free admission
- The Edwards Summer Music Series – The North Sound – August 21 at Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto | Free admission
- Free Outdoor Movie Nights at Evergreen Brick Works – Finding Nemo – August 21 at 550 Bayview Ave Toronto | Free admission
- Open World Toronto Film Festival – August 22-24 Kensington Studio, 19 Kensington Ave, Toronto | Free admission
- African Fashion Week Toronto (AFWT) 2025 – August 22-24 (Multiple venues) | Free and ticketed
- POP-UP: Fat Rice Asian Night Market – August 23 at The Depanneur, 192 Spadina Ave, Suite 501, Toronto | $79
- Burlington Latin Festival – August 23-24 at Central Park 2299 New St, Burlington | Free admission
- Doggie Fest Summer Carnival – August 23 at Roundhouse Park, 255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto | Free admission
- Summer Music in the Garden – A Little Afternoon Music by Charlotte Siegel and Nate Ben-Horin – August 24 at Toronto Music Garden, 479 Queens Quay West, Toronto | Free admission
- Yoga in Trillium Park – Every Saturday & Sunday, Until September 28 at Trillium Park at Ontario Place, 999 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto | Free admission
More…
- https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/festivals-events-calendar
- https://www.myguidetoronto.com/events/august-2025
- https://www.todocanada.ca/free-family-activities-every-day-summer-toronto
- https://www.overheretoronto.com/best-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-september-2025
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