Toronto never fails to deliver exciting events in the summertime, and many of them come with free admission. September will have a little bit of everything, from free cultural festivals to orchestra performances and standup comedy shows. Here are some of the best free things to do in Toronto this September where you can live it up without making a dent in your bank account.
Just For Laughs Free Street Festival
End of summer blues got you down? This free festival will give you something to smile about. As part of the Just For Laughs comedy festival this September, a free street festival is coming to downtown Toronto featuring standup comics, drag performers, and live music.
“As the most epic outdoor comedy celebration for everyone to enjoy, this new three-day, with an accessible site and totally free street festival will feature both local and international comedians, DJs, bands, and much more,” the description says.
When: September 23-25, 2022
Where: Front St East & Berczy Park
TIFF: Festival Street
TIFF is welcoming movie-goers, stars, and industry members back to the city this September, including its vibrant Festival Street. Festival Street will occupy a large stretch of King Street outside of the TIFF Bell Lightbox theatre, from Peter Street to University Avenue.
The family-friendly street festival will be celebrating all things film and will feature “live performances, partner activations, and outdoor screenings,” according to a press release from TIFF.
When: September 8-11, 2022
Where: King St West, Peter St to University Ave
TSO100: Open House & Free Concert
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is celebrating its 100th anniversary and it’s inviting the public to Roy Thomson Hall for a day of music-themed fun, building tours, and free performances in the lobby by TSO musicians and local artists.
“Torontonians of all ages are invited to join your TSO as we present the works of diverse Toronto artists, and engage in music-themed fun for the whole family,” says the event’s description. A magical, musical must-do activity!
When: September 24, 2022
Where: Roy Thomson Hall
Backyard Festival
The final edition of this free summer festival at Stackt Market is coming up this month and it’s basically a giant outdoor party, complete with a local vendor market, music series, food station, a showcase of artists, and family-friendly fun.
What better way to enjoy summer in the city than with good tunes, good bites, and good company in an outdoor oasis, all for free?
Where: Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst St
When: September 17, 2022
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Pedestrian Sunday at Kensington Market
After a two-year hiatus, the Sunday street parties we know and love are officially back at Kensington Market. On the last Sunday of every month throughout the summer, Toronto’s most eccentric neighbourhood hosts a street-wide celebration of community, culture, and ecology. This month is your last chance of the season to experience it!
Where: Kensington Market
When: September 25, 2022
Redpath Waterfront Festival
Something exciting is making a splash at Toronto’s waterfront. The Redpath Waterfront Festival will take over our shorelines this September and will feature a very special honourary guest — Theodore TOO the tugboat!
This year’s “water weekend” will take place at HTO Park and Sugar Beach, with a whole lineup of water-centric entertainment and activities. From food trucks to live music to larger-than-life displays, this year’s festival is bringing the fun back to the waterfront after two long years.
When: September 17 & 18, 2022
Where: See festival map
Celebrate Toronto
Celebrate Toronto is kicking off its annual event next month, bringing together local artists, entertainers, and businesses of the city’s past, present, and future.
Nathan Phillips Square will transform into a hub where the arts and small businesses come together. The event will offer art shows, photography meet-ups, pop-up markets, and delicious food.
When: September 10 & 11, 2022
Where: 100 Queen St W
Roncesvalles Polish Festival
The annual celebration of culture, art, and music is returning to Roncesvalles this September, in tribute to the neighbourhood, its history, and the people who call it home.
This year, visitors can look forward to fan favourites like Polka and pierogi, local artists, musicians and, of course, food. There will be countless vendors, exhibitors, buskers, and live performances at four separate stages. It’s going to be spectacular!
When: September 17 & 18, 2022
Where: Roncesvalles Ave
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Queen West Art Crawl
The annual two-day arts festival in Trinity Bellwoods Park is making an in-person comeback this September in support of artists and residents in Toronto.
The free inclusive arts and multicultural festival will feature an outdoor art exhibition, 2SLGBT+ friendly Kids’ Zone and a Main Stage with music and drag that is 50%+ BIPOC. Come out and celebrate Toronto’s local talent and diversity!
Where: Trinity Bellwoods Park
When: September 24-25, 2022
Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival
Said to be the largest Ukrainian festival in North America, this free annual event will take place in Bloor West Village this September.
The neighbourhood-wide event will be a celebration of Ukrainian culture, heritage, and the community’s history in Canada. It will feature a range of traditional performances, youth performers, live music, dance, food, and activities.
When: September 16-18, 2022
Where: Bloor West Village
Dogs-only swimming at Toronto pools
Just in time for the dog days of summer, Toronto’s having a pool pawty! A handful of city-run outdoor public pools will open for dogs-only swimming in Toronto this September.
“Dogs are welcome to enjoy a free swim on the last day of the outdoor pool season,” says the City of Toronto. No reservations are needed. Just show up with your pup, sign in with their vaccination requirements, and off they go!
When: September 4 & 11, 2022
Where: See all locations
