Free & Paid Things To Do on Civic Holiday in Toronto (2025) • Over Here Toronto

Long weekend coming up? That extra day off hits different in the summer. If you’re wondering things to do on Civic Holiday in Toronto, you’ve got options—whether you’re aiming to be outside, avoid crowds, or just eat your way through the city. From outdoor festivals and lakefront hangs to last-minute day trips and patios that stay open late, there’s enough going on to make that Monday feel like a bonus Saturday. Just don’t forget sunscreen and maybe a reservation or two.

Always verify event details on official websites or social media, as plans are subject to change. Also, free admission means no tickets are needed, but some events might still require RSVP or have costs for food, drinks, or activities.

What To Do This long weekend in Toronto (2025 Guide)

Free Fun Activities

TD Union Summer

*Photo via* *@torontounion* */ Instagram*

If you’re downtown on Civic Holiday, Union Summer is an easy win. Free live music, tasty eats from local spots, and a patio where no one’s judging how long you’ve been sitting.

When: Until August 10, 2025
Location: Union Station’s Front Street plaza
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://torontounion.ca
Best for: Lunch breaks and patio people.

The Distillery District

*Photo via* *@distilleryto* *and* *@marmellataclubhouse* */ Instagram*

Cobblestone streets, art galleries, indie shops, and patio drinks? The Distillery’s a Civic Holiday classic. It’s one of those spots where “just a quick stroll” turns into three hours of browsing, snacking, and pretending you’re in Europe.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 55 Mill Street, Toronto
Tickets: Free admission, but some attractions, guided tours, and events may have separate admission costs.
Website: https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com
Best for: Brunch dates and history fans.

Toronto Islands

*Photo via* *@urban_enquirer* */ Instagram*

Catch a ferry and make a day of it. Biking with the fam, beach lounging, or hitting Centreville with the kids? The Islands are a chill way to feel far from the city (even though you can still see the skyline).

Where: Lake Ontario, south of mainland Toronto
Tickets: Free admission. Centreville Amusement Park, located on Centre Island, requires tickets or passes for the rides.
Website: https://www.toronto.ca / https://www.torontoisland.com
Best for: Families and outdoor lovers.

Trillium Park

*Photo via* *@ontarioplace* *and* *@ideasandlight* */ Instagram*

For something more low-key, Trillium Park is an underrated gem. Bring your coffee, take a walk along the water, or spread out a blanket and pretend your Civic Holiday is a full-blown staycation.

Where: Ontario Place (955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://ontarioplace.com
Best for: Quiet mornings and picnics.

Toronto Food Truck Festival

*Photo via* *@canadianfoodtruckfestivals* */ Instagram*

Woodbine Park turns into a snack-lover’s dream this Civic Holiday weekend. With free admission, live music, eating challenges, and way too many food options, it’s the place you “just swing by” and end up staying all afternoon.

When: August 1-4, 2025
Where: Woodbine Park (1695 Queen St E, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.canadianfoodtruckfestivals.com
Best for: Foodies and families.

CF Toronto Eaton Centre

If you need AC, food, and retail therapy all in one place, Eaton Centre is massive and central. And it has everything from Uniqlo to Apple, plus a food court that somehow always smells like cinnamon and burgers.

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 220 Yonge St, Toronto
Tickets: Free admission. Dining, shopping, and certain services will incur costs.
Website: https://shops.cadillacfairview.com
Best for: Shoppers and snackers.

Riverdale Farm

Want a laid-back plan that doesn’t involve long lines or tickets? Riverdale Farm is a peaceful, free escape where you can hang out with goats, chickens, and the occasional city squirrel.

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m
Where: 201 Winchester St, Toronto
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://riverdalefarmtoronto.ca
Best for: Parents and kids.

Drink and Draw Toronto

*Photo via* *@drinkanddrawto* */ Instagram*

If you like to create art while sipping on a drink, Drink and Draw Toronto is your dream night out. No need to be a pro—just bring your creativity to the table and start sketching.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: Typist Studios and Coffee (390 Dupont St, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission. RSVP here.
Instagram: @drinkanddrawto
Best for: Artists of all levels.

Wines of Ontario

*Photo via* *@stacktmarket*, *@winecountryon, and* *@dooleynotedproductions* */ Instagram*

The Wines of Ontario pop-up at Stackt Market is serving some of the province’s finest VQA wines by the glass. Open daily through October, it’s the perfect stop for wine lovers to unwind and enjoy a glass.

When: August 1-October 31, 2025
Where: STACKT Market (28 Bathurst St. Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://stacktmarket.com
Best for: Wine lovers and anyone looking to unwind with a glass of local wine.

CNE’s HorseCapades

Want to meet some horses and learn all about them? CNE’s HorseCapades at the Horse Palace offers interactive games, grooming tips, and the chance to pet these majestic animals.

When: August 3-14, 2025
Where: CNE Horse Palace
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://www.theex.com/attractions
Best for: Families and anyone who loves horses.

Museums

Royal Ontario Museum

Want to spend your day off learning and staying cool? The ROM has dinosaurs, mummies, and galleries to wander through, so yeah, you can definitely make a day of it.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Where: 100 Queens Park, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.rom.on.ca
Best for: Curious minds and families.

Aga Khan Museum

Art, culture, and one of the most peaceful museum spaces in the city. Check out the new exhibit, grab a bite at Diwan, and maybe treat yourself to something at the gift shop (you’ve got the day off, after all).

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Where: 77 Wynford Dr, North York
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://agakhanmuseum.org
Best for: Museum lovers and calm seekers.

Bata Shoe Museum

Shoes might sound random, but this museum is low-key fascinating. From ancient sandals to celebrity kicks, it’s a walk through fashion and culture you didn’t know you needed.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 327 Bloor St W, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://batashoemuseum.ca
Best for: Design lovers and curious minds.

Art Gallery of Ontario

If the weather’s unpredictable (classic Civic Holiday), escape into the AGO. With 95,000+ works, from Indigenous art to European classics, you can spend hours wandering without checking your phone once.

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://ago.ca
Best for: Art fans and date days.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Spending Civic Holiday with the Stanley Cup? Pretty Canadian. Check out legendary gear, try your hand at being a sportscaster, and don’t miss the goalie mask evolution wall.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: 30 Yonge St, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.hhof.com
Best for: Hockey fans, sports-loving families, and anyone who knows what a hat trick is.

Museum of Illusions

Trippy mirrors, upside-down rooms, spinning tunnels—it’s part science, part Instagram moment, and fully fun. Your brain won’t know what’s real, but your photo album will look amazing.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where: 132 Front St E, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://museumofillusions.ca
Best for: Friends on the hunt for photo ops and curious teens.

Ontario Science Centre

Want to feel smart and entertained at the same time? The Science Centre has planetariums, hands-on exhibits, a legit rainforest, and an IMAX dome that makes the Civic Holiday feel like a movie premiere.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: KidSpark at Harbourfront Centre
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Best for: Curious kids and science lovers.

More Activities

Carnival Lime Caribana Day Party

If you want to spend your Civic Holiday drenched in sunshine and soca, this is the move. Enjoy nonstop tunes, dancing, and enough island feels to make you forget you have emails waiting on Tuesday.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: IDK Social Bar and Cafe (172 Ossington Avenue Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Party crews and soca lovers.

National Bank Open presented by Rogers

Tennis takes over the city this week, and Civic Holiday is a prime day to catch a match. Even if you don’t know the rules, the food trucks, music, and outdoor feel make it worth it.

When: July 26-August 7, 2025
Where: Sobeys Stadium (100-1 Shoreham Drive, North York)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://nationalbankopen.com
Best for: Sports fans and casual spectators.

Symphony in the Gardens at Casa Loma

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKPbJ05OnZM

Trade the Civic Holiday crowds for something a little more mellow. Head to Casa Loma and enjoy live orchestral music under the stars with castle views and a garden breeze to match.

When: Until September 1, 2025
Where: Casa Loma (1 Austin Terrace Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://casaloma.ca
Best for: Date nights and chill evening plans.

Titanic: The Official Exhibition

https://www.instagram.com/p/DLSvq6UN0Er

If you’re looking to spend your day off indoors (and in full curiosity mode), this Titanic exhibition is a solid pick. Artifacts, VR experiences, and history that’ll make you say “wow”.

When: Until September 30, 2025
Location: YZD (30 Hanover Road, North York)
Admission: Get your tickets here.
Website: https://expo-titanic.com
Best for: History buffs and museum wanderers.

Dusk Dances 2025

Photo via Dusk Dances Inc.

Withrow Park becomes an open-air dance stage this week, and the Civic Holiday’s a great time to catch a show. Come early for the dabke workshop and stay for the incredible performances that blend movement, culture, and community.

When: August 3-10, 2025
Where: Withrow Park (725 Logan Avenue, Toronto)
Tickets: Pay what you can ($20 suggested contribution)
Website: https://www.duskdances.ca
Best for: Artsy types and dance lovers.

Toronto Zoo

Photo via @thetorontozoo / Instagram

Wanna hang with mammals, amphibians, reptiles, or birds? The Toronto Zoo is a fun Civic Holiday plan, especially if you’re ready to hit your step count while you’re at it.

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.torontozoo.com
Best for: Families and animal lovers.

Canada’s Wonderland

Photo via @_daguirre / Instagram

Coasters, water rides, funnel cake—it’s summer in a nutshell. Here for the adrenaline or just the snacks? Wonderland makes the Civic Holiday feel like a mini-vacation.

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Where: 9580 Jane St, Vaughan
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.canadaswonderland.com
Best for: Thrill-seekers and families.

CN Tower

Photo via @cntower and @ripleysaquaca / Instagram

Yep, it’s touristy but also iconic. Head up for the views, stay for lunch in the 360 Restaurant. Also, download the viewfinder app and pretend you’re giving a tour.

Time: Click here.
Where: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.cntower.ca
Best for: First-timers and skyline chasers.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Photo via @ripleysaquaca / Instagram

If it’s too hot, Ripley’s is an easy win. Walk through the underwater tunnel as sharks and stingrays swim overhead, or just hang out with the jellyfish and pretend you’re in a chill music video.

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m
Where: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.ripleys.com
Best for: Families and out-of-towners.

Scarborough RibFest

The ribs are smoky, the corn’s buttery, and there’s a full beer garden calling your name. Add in midway rides and local vendors, and you’ve got yourself a full day out east.

When: August 1-4, 2025
Where: Thomson Memorial Park (1005 Brimley Rd, Scarborough)
Tickets: Donations appreciated.
Website: http://www.scarboroughribfest.com
Best for: BBQ fans and east-enders.

Kayaking with Skyline Views

*Photo via* *@paddletoronto* *and* *@shotbybenbts* */ Instagram*

Wanna switch things up this Civic Holiday? Rent a kayak and paddle along the lake for a skyline view that never gets old. It’s peaceful, low-key adventurous, and an excellent excuse to skip leg day.

Office Address: 283 Queens Quay West, Toronto ( south of the Rogers Center right on the edge of Lake Ontario
Reservations: Click here for kayak rental.
Website: https://paddletoronto.com
Best for: Outdoor lovers and couples.

Hidden Toronto City Tour

Learn all the weirdest, funniest, and most unexpected facts about Toronto on this cheeky walking tour. It’s 90 minutes of movie mistakes, clown riots, and the kind of city trivia that’s way more fun than a history textbook.

Where: Starts outside of the Hockey Hall of Fame
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://hauntedwalk.com
Best for: Locals and first-time visitors.

Monday Latin Nights at DROM Taberna

Spend your Civic Holiday Monday dancing to live Latin grooves at DROM Taberna. Two bands, tasty food, and a crowd that knows how to salsa, and don’t worry, they’ll make room for beginners.

When: Every Monday, Until September 1, 2025
Where: 458 Queen St W, Toronto
Tickets: Pay What You Can
Website: https://www.dromtaberna.com
Best for: Dancers and date night duos.

KŌST

*Photo via* *@kosttoronto* *and* *@mss_gn* */ Instagram*

If you’re trying to soak up every last second of sunshine this Civic Holiday, head 44 floors up to KŌST. The Baja-inspired menu is fresh, the cocktails are cold, and the views? They’ll steal the spotlight from your brunch flat lay.

Where: Bisha Hotel (44th Floor, 80 Blue Jays Way, Toronto)
Cuisine: Californian
Price: $$
Website: https://kosttoronto.com
Reservation: Book here.
Phone: 437-800-5938
Email: info@kosttoronto.com
Best for: Skyline lovers and rooftop brunch dates.

The Rabbit Hole

When the long weekend calls for comfort food and a chill atmosphere, you’ll love to be at this British gastropub. They serve elevated pub classics with local flair, and yes, there’s craft beer to match.

Where: 21 Adelaide St W, Toronto
Cuisine: Contemporary British
Price: $$
Website: https://www.therabbitholepub.ca
Reservation: Book here.
Phone: 647-480-6963
Best for: Laid-back hangs, beer fans, and anyone craving pub food with personality.

Kasa Moto

Yorkville knows how to do a long weekend right, and Kasa Moto proves it. With a sleek rooftop patio, Japanese small plates, and cocktails that look as good as they taste, this spot is made for Civic Holiday flexing.

Where: 115 Yorkville Ave, Toronto
Cuisine: Japanese
Price: $-$$$
Website: https://kasamoto.ca
Reservation: Book here.
Phone: 647-477-0423
Email: info@kasamoto.ca
Best for: Stylish lunches and rooftop cocktails

The 24th Annual Caribana LAST LAP Boat Cruise

If you want to keep the Caribana feels going, hop on this boat cruise for one last lap of fun. With DJ ANA and ULTRA SIMMO spinning tunes, DJ Sin and Jay Rev keeping the party going, and lunch included (thanks, The Avenue), it’s the perfect way to sail into your Civic Holiday weekend.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: the Enterprise 2000 (176 Cherry St. Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/3014936965328952
Best for: Party lovers and Caribana enthusiasts.

Family Glow-in-the-Dark Splatter Painting on Shirts & Totes

Want to unleash your inner artist under blacklights? This glow-in-the-dark painting session is about splatter paint, neon colors, and a good atmosphere. Bring your own shirt or tote bag, or use theirs (sizes are limited).

When: August 4, 2025
Where: Artbox Studio Gallery (1226 Kingston Rd, Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://www.artboxstudiogallery.com
Best for: Families, creative minds, and anyone who loves glowing art.

ADVOCATS BIG BAND’S HOLIDAY MONDAY AT THE DUKE TORONTO

Looking for some smooth jazz to finish off your long weekend? Head to The Duke Toronto for ADVOCATS BIG BAND. They’ll be playing all your big band favorites, so sit back, grab a drink, and let the music set the mood for your Civic Holiday night.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: The Duke (1225 Queen St. East, Toronto)
Tickets: $15 cash cover
Website: https://www.advocatsbigband.com
Best for: Jazz lovers and anyone who wants a relaxing night.

Fujii Kaze

This Japanese singer-songwriter and pianist is taking the stage in Toronto with a mix of pop, R&B, and soul. With viral hits like Shinunoga E Wa, his music is fresh, emotional, and bound to leave you wanting more.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: The Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth Ave., Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://fujiikaze.com
Best for: Music lovers, pop fans, and anyone into soulful tunes

Planet Soca | Caribana Night Party

The party doesn’t stop after the boat cruise—Planet Soca brings the hottest beats of the Caribbean right to you. Get ready for high-energy music and nonstop dancing, all night long.

When: August 4, 2025
Where: Fox on John (106 John Street #3, Toronto)
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Soca lovers and anyone looking for a dance-filled night.

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