Let’s be honest, our wallets could all use a break right now, and thankfully, you don’t need a very big budget to have a good time in the city this month. There are tons of free and cheap things to do in Toronto this March 2022, including art exhibitions, arcade socials, museum crawls, skating, and outdoor events.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, enjoy the milder weather, or explore the city on a Sunday afternoon, these activities have you covered.
60 WORKS / 60 YEARS
Experience the evolution of our city through the eyes of Toronto’s emerging artists. The art gallery at the St. Lawrence Market is now showcasing 60 artworks acquired by the City from the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair over the past six decades. Do a little shopping at the market and then head upstairs to this FREE show and explore the ever-changing geographical and cultural landscape of our city.
Where: The Market Gallery, 95 Front St E
When: Until April 17th, 2022
ArtworxTO
Art enthusiasts, this one’s for you. A year-long celebration of exceptional art, called ArtworxTO: Toronto’s Year of Public Art, is bringing all kinds of FREE public exhibits, installations, and displays to the city at various ArtworxTO Hubs. The displays you’ll get to see are contemporary works by local and international artists. Opening in early March is the I am land installation at Union Station, and HOME(LAND) at Cloverdale Common. Each of the installations has its own unique theme and message.
Where: Various locations
When: Until Fall 2022
Toronto Game Night & Chill: St. Patrick’s Day Edition
Mix, mingle, and have a good time at FreePlay, Toronto’s 80s-themed arcade. The arcade is hosting a social for St. Patrick’s Day with games, trivia, food, drinks, and plenty of good vibes. Your ticket comes with a whole evening of unlimited gameplay, so get ready to challenge your squad to some friendly competition. Pay in advance to score a discount on admission.
Where: 300 College St
When: March 20th, 2022
Price: From $11.62
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Museum of Contemporary Art
The MOCA is reopening to the public this month with a brand new season of exhibitions. Described as “ambitiously inclusive, interdisciplinary, and internationally renowned,” this is the place to see and experience contemporary art. Get excited for unique new showcases at the MOCA, a “place for everyone to explore that provokes ideas and discussion and challenges the current cultural moment.”
Where: 158 Sterling Rd
When: Opens March 10th, 2022
Price: Adult $10, Student $5 with ID
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The “largest Irish event in Canada” is set to make a comeback for the first time since the start of the pandemic. Organizers have announced that this year’s parade will take place as scheduled if Ontario’s reopening plan continues to move forward. This year, the parade’s organizers are excited to welcome the public back to the celebration, complete with a marching band and all the bells and whistles.
Where: See the parade route here
When: March 20th, 2022
ROM Distance Discount
You can get a deep discount at the Royal Ontario Museum this March Break, but there’s a catch. The further away you live, the more you get to save. The ROM is running a promotion for out-of-town visitors and based on the first letter of your postal code, you could get anywhere from 20% to 40% off. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity to spend a day in the city, this is your chance to do it.
Where: 100 Queens Park
When: Until March 20th, 2022
Winter Stations
The annual international design competition at The Beaches is back and this year’s winners have been revealed. Winter Stations will run for six weeks straight and will showcase the six winning projects along the shoreline. This year’s winners took their creativity to new heights, transforming the lifeguard towers into northern cardinal birds, isolation pavilions, beehives, and more.
Where: Woodbine Beach, 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E
When: Until March 31st, 2022
One-of-a-Kind Spring Show
Start the spring season with a fresh assortment of local goods straight from this iconic artisan craft fair. The theme for this year’s show is Flourish, symbolizing rejuvenation, growth, and new beginnings. This event is a chance to meet and support local makers, unleash your creativity, and collect some unique new items for the season.
Where: Enercare Centre, 100 Princes’ Blvd Unit 1
When: March 30th — April 3rd, 2022
Price: Adult $15, Student & Speed-Shopping $10
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Island of Warmth
Another interactive display has popped up in the city and it has delighted locals in cities all over the world. The installation, called Island of Warmth, is designed to resemble a campfire and uses movement and sound to keep its flames burning bright. The bonfire is surrounded by sensors placed on the floor and relies on the people around it to bring it to life. If you’re a fan of outdoor art, this one’s worth the visit.
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square
When: Until March 20th, 2022
Skating in the city
Ice skating season isn’t over just yet! Most of the city-operated outdoor rinks, including Nathan Philips Square, will be open until March 20th this year. With milder weather ahead, this is the perfect time to glide the afternoon away. The best part is that they’re completely free to use, but you can rent skates and a helmet for a fee.
Where: Various locations
When: Until March 20th, 2022
