Fun Things to Do in Toronto This Week (March 9–15): St. Paddy’s & March Break
By mid-March, it starts to feel easier to say yes to plans again. Days are getting a bit longer, patios are on the mind, and staying in every night feels less appealing. In this guide to things to do in Toronto this week (March 9–15, 2026), you’ll find a mix of things happening around the city, plus a few options outside Toronto if you’re up for a short drive or a change of scenery.
Be sure to check the official event page before you go, as details can change at the last minute. Just a heads-up that even free events might need an RSVP, and you’ll still want some money for food or drinks once you’re there.
Free Fun Events
Sugar Shack TO
March 14-15, 2026 | Harbourfront Centre
Maple season is officially here. Sugar Shack TO brings syrup-soaked treats, live entertainment, and classic Canadian comfort food to the waterfront. It’s festive, casual, and easy to enjoy, especially if you’re hunting for festivals in Toronto this weekend that don’t require a big commitment.
St. Patrick’s Parade of Toronto
March 15, 2026 | Downtown Toronto
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This long-running parade is big, lively, and very Toronto. Expect marching bands, cultural groups, and a crowd that’s there purely to have a good time. Irish or just here for the celebration, it’s one of the most recognizable free events in Toronto today, during March.
If you’re visiting for the weekend, this pairs well with a downtown stay. Planning late? See our How to Book Last-Minute Hotels in Toronto (Apps & Tricks That Work) guide.
Lumière: The Art of Light at Ontario Place
Until March 27, 2026 |Trillium Park
This free outdoor light exhibition transforms Trillium Park into an after-dark art walk. Featuring installations by Ontario artists, it’s one of the most atmospheric free events in Toronto and a great excuse for an evening stroll by the lake.
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Winter Stations
Until March 30, 2026 | Woodbine Beach
Winter Stations gives you a reason to visit the Beaches before spring fully arrives. Temporary art installations wrap around lifeguard towers, creating a scenic, walkable outdoor exhibit. Dress warm and take your time.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Yes Shef Toronto
March 9, 2026丨The International Centre
This one-night culinary experience feels meaningful and genuinely fun. Yes Shef brings together women chefs, restaurateurs, and rising culinary talent for an evening of tasting, connection, and support for women in hospitality. With over 15 tasting stations and thoughtful beverage pairings, it’s one of those Toronto events March 2026 that feels good to attend and even better to support.
All Ages: Plancha Tendencies Wrestling
March 12, 2026丨The Parkdale Hall
This high-energy wrestling event mixes lucha libre, indie stars, and pure chaos in a surprisingly family-friendly way. It’s a fun pick if you’re searching for things to do in Toronto this weekend with family, but want something different from the usual museum stop. You don’t need to know wrestling to enjoy this. Just show up ready to cheer.
March Break 2026 at the AGO
March 14-22, 2026丨317 Dundas St W, Toronto
If you’re staying in Toronto for March Break, the AGO is a lifesaver. Free activity booklets, hands-on artmaking, scavenger hunts, and live performances make it easy to spend a few creative hours here. Best of all, many activities are included with admission, making this a solid pick for free events in Toronto today if you’re already visiting.
Need full planning help here? You can check out my guide to What To Do for March Break If You’re Staying in Toronto.
Arcadia Earth: A Vision for Tomorrow
March 14–22, 2026 | 486 Front St. West (The Well)
If you’re looking for an indoor escape that kicks off this weekend, Arcadia Earth is launching their special March Break programming starting on the 14th. They’re extending their hours and debuting a gorgeous, limited-run planetarium chapter called A Vision for Tomorrow: Forests. It’s a mind-bending, interactive way for the whole family to explore the planet, and they’re even hosting free sustainable crafts every afternoon in the Marketplace.
Here is a brilliant local hack: if you are a teacher, you get in completely free all week with an OCT card! It’s the perfect way to sneak some stunning, immersive education into your weekend plans.
Space Explorers: THE INFINITE
GYGO Canada – Square One, 99 Rathburn Rd W, Mississauga
Here is a little insider tip if you’re looking for something completely out of this world this March. Space Explorers: THE INFINITE has officially landed in Mississauga, and it is easily one of the coolest immersive experiences we’ve seen. Based on an Emmy-winning docu-series, this 45-minute virtual reality journey lets you literally walk among astronauts and float through the International Space Station.
Over 500,000 people worldwide have already been captivated by it, and it even features real 360-degree footage filmed in space. Definitely add this to your weekend plans!
Puppet Festival Mississauga 2026
March 14-22, 2026 | Multiple venues
Worth the short trip outside the city, this festival turns March Break into a week-long celebration of creativity. With shows for all ages, outdoor pop-ups, workshops, and even a puppet day camp, it’s one of the most unique Toronto March events in 2026 for families who want something memorable.
Must-Catch Concerts & Shows
Rise Against – North American 2026 Tour
March 10-11, 2026 | History Toronto
If you’ve been craving a loud, cathartic night out, Rise Against live never disappoints. They’re bringing their North American tour to History, joined by Destroy Boys, making it one of the most anticipated events in Toronto for live music lovers.
Lucy Darling: Simply Darling
March 13-14, 2026丨The Winter Garden Theatre
Need a break from reality? Lucy Darling delivers sharp wit, playful sarcasm, and magic that feels effortless. This touring variety show is a smart choice if you’re browsing Toronto events March 2026 and want something intimate, funny, and a little glamorous. Perfect for date night or a midweek treat that feels special without being over the top.
National Ballet of Canada: Pinocchio
March 13-22, 2026丨Four Seasons Centre
This is a rare ballet that truly works for all ages. The story is familiar, the visuals are magical, and the pacing keeps kids engaged without losing adults. If you’re planning a family-friendly cultural outing, this is a safe and memorable choice. Pair it with our Best Indoor Playgrounds for Kids in Toronto and GTA guide.
Shrek 2 In Concert
March 14-15, 2026 | Meridian Hall
Watching Shrek 2 with a live orchestra is unexpectedly delightful. The jokes land, the music shines, and the nostalgia hits hard for adults while kids stay entertained. It’s an easy yes for families or anyone who loves film scores.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out
- Jay Electronica – March 11 at The Phoenix | Ticketed
- Late Night at the BSM: Zine Making – March 12 at Bata Shoe Museum | Included with general admission
- NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs – March 12 at Scotiabank Arena | Ticketed
- NBA: Toronto Raptors – March 13 & 15 at Scotiabank Arena | Ticketed
FAQs
Yes, especially if you enjoy smaller crowds and seasonal events. March brings a mix of indoor shows, cultural festivals, and early spring outdoor activities, plus better hotel deals compared to peak summer.
A lot, actually. From concerts and theatre to March Break programming, light festivals, and food events, March is packed with events that work for couples, families, and solo explorers.
Toronto’s 2026 calendar includes major touring musicians, international performers, festivals, and large-scale cultural events. If live entertainment is your thing, Toronto events are shaping up to be busy and exciting.
Love the social scene but hate the morning-after headache?
March in Toronto is already exhausting enough with the unpredictable weather and the busy pre-spring schedule. You can use our guide to the 17 Best Non-Alcoholic Bars in Toronto (Zero Cocktail Bar & More) to find a spot where you can enjoy a complex, hand-crafted drink and remember the conversation the next day. It is a solid option for those nights when you want to stay out late but still want to wake up feeling refreshed for your next adventure.
Related Reads:
- Free & Paid Things To Do in Toronto This March 2026 • Over Here Toronto
- Toronto Events – Discover Things To Do In Toronto | Ticketmaster
- Festivals & Events Calendar – City of Toronto
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