The new year is nearly upon us! The holidays can get expensive so if you’re trying to save a few bucks in January, but still get out of the house and enjoy the city, we have you covered with tons of free things to do!
Here’s our list of 9 of the best free things to do in Toronto in January.
The Junction’s Window Wonderland
This free art exhibition runs until January 31st meaning you have all month to check it out.
The Juction’s Window Wonderland outdoor art gallery features 20 spectacular augmented reality (AR) window installations and 5 murals, all designed by local and international artists and is located between Quebec Ave and Indian Grove on Dundas West.
When: January 1st – January 31st
Where: The Junction
Go to a museum
If you want to stay warm but still do something fun and free, the Art Gallery of Ontario offers free admission every Wednesday.
Take in the beautiful artwork, and fascinating exhibits and even learn something new. This isn’t the only museum in the city with free admission during the week either. The Royal Ontario Museum is another spot you can check out for free every Monday.
When: Wednesdays (AGO) & Mondays (ROM)
Where: 317 Dundas St W (AGO) & 100 Queens Park (ROM)
Check out DesignTO
DesignTO is a festival running from January 19th–28th that describes itself as “bringing people together to design a better future, one that is more sustainable, just, and joyful.”
The Festival takes place online and in-person at venues across Toronto with a long list of spots you can check out. Most of the events and exhibitions at this city-wide experience are free! Take a look at the venues here.
When: January 19th – 28th
Where: Various locations
View this post on Instagram
Evergreen Brickworks Indoor Farmer’s Market
While this market is free to browse, we don’t blame you if you leave with a few purchases!
Every Saturday from 9 AM – 1 PM, Evergreen Brickworks hosts a market with 25 local farmers and producers. Expect a delicious selection of jams, tasty desserts, fresh veggies and so much more. If you don’t feel like buying anything this is still a great spot to check out for the warm, welcoming vibes alone.
When: Every Saturday
Where: Evergreen Brickworks
Explore Scarborough Bluffs
One of Toronto’s most beautiful spots gets even prettier in the wintertime!
Scarborough Bluffs is a 15km stretch with 11 parks featuring spectacular views of the famous bluffs, Lake Ontario, trails, and beaches. Bundle up and enjoy the views!
When: Anytime
Where: Scarborough Bluffs (various spots)
Attend a comedy show
A free event that will have you laughing all night long!
Chefs Hall has teamed up with comedian Andrew Packer to present a stand-up comedy showcase of four comedy acts on January 18th and 24th. All you gotta do is show up and laugh, this is a must add to your list of free events to check out in Toronto.
When: January 18th & 24th from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Chefs Hall, 111 Richmond St W
Enjoy an opera or musical performance
This free experience brings artists from around the world to share their talent and passion in one of Toronto’s most breathtaking and intimate spaces!
If you like music then January is the perfect time to attend one of The Canadian Opera Company’s various performances at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Their Free Concert Series features choirs, musical acts, and more all month long. Take a look at the calendar of events here.
When: Various dates
Where: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St W
Go tobogganing
January is the perfect time for one of the best winter activities – tobogganing!
There are many spots you can hit up in the city including Bickford Park, Bridlewood Park, Greenwood Park, Riverdale Park, Withrow Park and many more. Just remember to be safe and bundle up.
When: Anytime
Where: Various locations
Go skating
While we’re talking about outdoor winter activities, why not stop at one of the city’s outdoor rinks while you’re at it?
Toronto has a ton of locations you can skate at for free including downtown’s famous Nathan Phillips Square.
When: Various times
Where: Various locations
With so many free things to do, you won’t even know where to start! Happy January, Toronto!
