Before we know it, March will be over! And that means we need to start planning ahead, getting ready for April. Though going outside means spending money, it can get a little expensive in a city like Toronto – but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve compiled a list of free and cheap things to do in Toronto for the month of April, keeping you and your wallet happy.
From outdoor adventures to loonie nights and pop ups, there’s tons to do and lots to see.
Here are 10 of the best free and cheap things to do in and around Toronto this April.
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TO Food and Drink Fest
TO Food and Drink Fest is returning to the city this spring and it is the largest festival of its kind in all of Canada.
The 19+ festival runs for three days straight and will bring back-to-back culinary experiences into one massive space.
That includes incredible food, drinks, demos, shopping, music, and so much more.
When: April 5th to 7th, 2024
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
Cost: $19
Take part in an eclipse workshop
The Toronto Public Library is hosting a number of free workshops across the area in anticipation of the total solar eclipse.
From pinhole viewers to educational lessons, there tons of workshops available now through April, leading up to the big day on April 8th.
When: April 2nd to 6th, 2024
Where: Library location varies
Catch the eclipse with free viewing glasses
With the rare total solar eclipse taking place on April 8th, parts of Ontario will be in the path of totality meaning you can view the total solar eclipse, including in Toronto. If you do choose to watch, it’s important to do so safely with proper eclipse-viewing eyewear.
Some spots in Toronto will be hosting eclipse-viewing experiences and are providing free glasses so you can enjoy it safely. Downsview Park, Toronto Zoo and TMU will be handing out eclipse glasses for free if you register before hand or purchase tickets.
When: April 8th, 2024
Where: Select locations
stackt market – Birthday Block Party
Toronto’s stackt market is celebrating its birthday in a big way. It’s throwing a five-day block party filled with delicious food, music, shopping, and more, this April.
Full details as to what to expect has yet to be revealed but if it’s anything like last year, it’ll be a blast.
They hosted a dining series, game nights, food vendors, and more.
When: April 10th to 14th, 2024
Where: stackt market – 28 Bathurst St
Cost: Free
Studio Ghibli Fan Pop Up
Immerse yourself in the world of Studio Ghibli at this fan pop up in North York. Expect a weekend full of fun activites and attractions, cosplay and more.
“Explore a variety of merchandise booths and discover unique artwork inspired by your favorite films or grab a plush toy to cuddle with while you explore,” shares organizers.
“Don’t forget to satisfy your taste buds at our delicious food stalls, offering a selection of Japanese treats and snacks. Indulge in Afternoon tea, Ghibli inspired Bento boxes, Onigiri, Macarons, Donuts, Cotton Candy and more!”
Since this event is in high demand, no walk-ins are allowed – you must buy a ticket.
When: April 13th, 2024 11 AM to 9 PM and April 14th, 2024 from 11 AM to 6 PM
Where: Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre – 6 Sakura Way North York, ON
Cost: Starting at $11.98
Toronto Dark Arts Market – Spring Fête
“Who said Goths are gloomy? We enjoy flowers and sunshine just as much as the next person – well, from underneath a large parasol and the safety of a good slathering of SPF 50,” shares organizers.
No matter your colour scheme, everyone loves spring! And you will too at the Toronto Dark Arts Market.
“Join us as we celebrate Spring and get an early start on Mother’s Day – we’ll have presents for your cool Goth Mom, or presents that a cool Goth can give their Mom. Or just lovely things to buy for yourself, because don’t you deserve it? Our 35 vendors will have delightfully dark and creative handmade wares for your perusal.”
The event it “mostly” kid- and dog-friendly, according to organizers.
When: April 13th from 11 AM to 5 PM
Where: Ground Control – 1279 Queen St West
Cost: Free
Lumière: The Art of Light
Lumière: The Art of Light will temporarily transform Trillium Park at Ontario Place into a free light exhibition allowing visitors to explore the park and experience light installations developed by local artists. Lumière begins March 12th and will run until April 20th.
When: Until April 20th, 2024
Where: Trillium Park at Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
Cost: Free
Toronto Blue Jays Loonie Dogs Night
According to the Blue Jays, “every Tuesday home game of the 2024 season fans will have the opportunity to purchase $1 hot dogs from various concession stands around the ballpark.”
When: Every Tuesday Toronto Blue Jays home game
Where: Rogers Centre, 1 Blue Jays Way
Cost: $1 per hot dog
Aga Khan Museum
The Aga Khan Museum also offers free admission to the public on Wednesday evenings from 4 PM to 8 PM.
No pre-registration is required, just show up in person to receive your free ticket and enjoy!
Where: Aga Khan Museum, 77 Wynford Drive
When: Wednesdays from 4 PM to 8 PM
Cost: FREE
Visit MUJI – Jarvis, The Robot Barista
Calling all coffee aficionados and tech enthusiasts, there’s a new barista in Toronto, and it’s not your typical human behind the counter. Japanese retailer MUJI has introduced a new robot barista in Toronto and it’s ready to serve fresh brews.
If you find yourself in need of a caffeine fix, Jarvis has got you covered.
Whether it be cold brews or a hot pot of coffee, lattes, or even a refresher, this state-of-the-art robotic support can do it all.
When: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM, Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM
Where: MUJI Atrium – 20 Dundas St West
Cost: Pricing varies
Karen Doradea
Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Netflix, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.
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