Free Things To Do This November in Toronto 2024

The thing about November in Toronto? It’s the cosy stretch before the holiday rush, where the city seems to pulse with no-cost activities and events. And who doesn’t love some free fun? Between pop-up markets and local music gigs, you can keep your weekends packed without breaking the bank.

Don’t know where to start? Here’s your go-to list of free things to do this November in Fairmont Tree Lighting CeremonToronto. Get out there and take in the city—no ticket required.

Free Things To Do in Toronto This November 2024 | Top No-Cost Events

Spend a Day at High Park (Throughout November)

High Park’s got that “something for everyone” vibe. It’s the perfect spot for a day outside, with nature trails, beautiful gardens, and wide-open spaces to explore. Just outside downtown, this place is massive, so pack a picnic, lace up some comfy shoes, and prepare to wander.

• Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Outdoor Fun

Snap a Selfie with the Iconic Toronto Sign (Throughout November)

Can you really say you visited Toronto if you didn’t snap a selfie at the Toronto sign? Not happening. Head over to Nathan Phillips Square and get that Instagram-worthy shot with the city’s iconic sign. Plus, it’s near York Street, so food stops are super easy.

• Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Category: Friends, Family-friendly, Must-See

Take Photos at St. Lawrence Market (Throughout November)

Ready for some serious history and photo ops? Head to the St. Lawrence Market, a Toronto staple that’s been around since 1803. It’s a place packed with stories, cool vendors, and all the charm you need for iconic Toronto snapshots.

• Location: 92-95 Front St. E., Toronto
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.stlawrencemarket.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Local Experience

Wander Around Downtown on the PATH (Throughout November)

Who knew Toronto had a 30 km underground maze? Exploring the PATH network lets you wander downtown without going outside. And sightseeing is made easy with stops at CN Tower and the Rogers Centre. The SkyWalk section is a must for that famous skyline shot.

• Location: Spans College St. to Queens Quay and Yonge St. to Simcoe St.
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Category: Friends, Family-friendly, Rainy Day Fun

Check Out Local Art at The Bentway (Throughout November)

Beneath the Gardiner Expressway is The Bentway, a cool art space filled with local vibes. It’s a one-part art gallery and a one-part community hub, and it is entirely free to visit. Day or night, something always happens here, from art installations to dance classes and winter skating.

• Location: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.thebentway.ca
• Category: For Friends, Family-friendly, Free Fun

Colour and Form: 72nd Open Juried Exhibition (October 30 – November 28)

This one’s for the art lovers. The Colour and Form Society is putting on their 72nd show, and expect vibrant, creative works. Ontario’s best local artists compete for big prizes, from acrylics to mixed media. And yep, it’s free to visit, so check it out if you’re in the area.

• Date & Time: October 30 – November 28
• Location: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery (399 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
• Admission: Free and open to the public.
• Website: www.colourandformsociety.org
• Category: Friends, Family-friendly, Art Lovers

Mimico Pumpkin Parade 2024 (November 1)

Halloween might be over, but pumpkin season isn’t. Bring your Jack-o’-lantern down to Mimico Square for one last hurrah. Light them up alongside your neighbours’ creations, and enjoy a night lit by hundreds of spooky-fun pumpkins. The more pumpkins, the better.

• Date & Time: November 1, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Location: Mimico Square (Amos Waites Park, 2441 Lake Shore Blvd W., Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Category: Family-friendly, Community Fun

Sorauren Park’s Pumpkin Parade (November 1)

Want another pumpkin parade? This year marks 20 years of pumpkin magic, with paths lined by carved pumpkins. Plus, the West Toronto Community Choir will be there with some spooktacular tunes.

• Date & Time: November 1, starts at 6:00 PM 
• Location: Sorauren Avenue Park (289 Sorauren Ave, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.soraurenpark.wordpress.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Local Tradition

Night of the Dead Party (November 1 – 2)

Night of the Dead brings some Día de los Muertos flair to the city with drink specials and candy treats. You shouldn’t miss the killer giveaways for the best costumes. Show up, dance it out, and keep those Halloween vibes going all night.

• Date & Time: November 1 (Door opens at 9:00 PM), November 2 (Door opens at 10:00 PM)
• Location: The Fifth Social Club (225 Richmond St. West, Toronto)
• Admission: November 1 Free Entry with Tickets before 10:30 PM), November 2 (Free Entry with Tickets before 11:30 PM). Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.fifthsocialclub.thefifth.com
• Category: 21+, Party Night, Friends

Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market (November 2)

The annual Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market is packed with goodies at The Bentway. Art, fashion, home décor – there’s a little bit of everything here. DJ Kid Artik will also be spinning tunes while you shop local and support amazing artists and creators.

• Date & Time: November 2, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Boulevard, Toronto 
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.torontoartcrawl.com 
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Holiday Fun

T3 Holiday Market (November 2 – 3)

If you want unique gifts, visit the T3 Holiday Market at Stackt Market. With over 30 local vendors, you’ll find handcrafted jewellery, trendy clothes, and more.

• Date & Time: November 2-3, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM 
• Location: Stackt Market (28 Bathurst Street, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.thetrendingtable.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Holiday Shopping

Good Mourning Festival (November 2 – 3)

Ever thought about celebrating life and death in a meaningful yet fun way? The Good Mourning Festival is about that balance with workshops, art, and food stalls. It’s designed to help us reflect, but there’s much fun to have, too.

• Date & Time: November 2 – 3, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM 
• Location: Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Ave, Toronto)
• Admission: Free.
• Website: www.evergreen.ca
• Category: Friends, Unique Experience, Reflection & Fun

Day of the Dead Celebration at Sandbox (November 2 – 3)

You’ll want to be at Beaches Sandbox if you love Mexican culture. They’re celebrating Día de los Muertos with workshops, art, and talks on Mexican heritage.

• Date: November 2 – 3
• Location: Beaches Sandbox (2181 Queen Street East, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.beachessandbox.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Cultural Celebration, Learning

Ecofair Toronto 2024 (November 3)

Ready to make some eco-friendly moves? The Ecofair focuses on green living and features over 60 vendors and tons of interactive activities. You can recycle electronics, donate food, or participate in fun crafts while learning how to go greener.

• Date & Time: November 3, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Wychwood Barns (601 Christie St. Toronto)
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.ecofairtoronto.org 
• Category: Family-friendly, Eco-Friendly Fun, Community Event

6ix Screams International Horror Film Festival (November 5)

Brace yourself for a night of chills. The 6ix Screams International Horror Film Festival is back in person with a lineup of spine-tingling films. Perfect for horror enthusiasts and those who love a good thrill.

• Date & Time: November 5, 6:00 PM – 9:15 PM 
• Location: House of Culture – Naturlandia (2237 Dundas St West, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your free tickets here.
• Website: www.6ixscreams.weebly.com
• Category: Friends, Horror Lovers

AGO First Wednesday Night Free (November 6)

Take advantage of free admission at the Art Gallery of Ontario on the first Wednesday of the month. With thousands of incredible works on display, it’s the perfect mid-week cultural escape. So, why not see some art after work?

• Date & Time: November 6, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM 
• Location: 317 Dundas Street West Toronto
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.ago.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Art Lovers, Free Experience

ProFusion Expo 2024 (November 6 – 7)

Canada’s biggest photo and video event is returning to the Metro Toronto Convention Center. ProFusion has everything you need to discover the latest in imaging tech, from industry pros to newbie content creators.

• Date & Time: November 6 (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, November 7 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front Street West North Building – Hall B Toronto)
• Admission: Register free here.
• Website: www.profusionexpo.com 
• Category: For Friends, Creative Community, Photography Lovers

Feeling Her Way: Dancer Responses (Andrea Nann/Dreamwalker) (November 6)

Experience a mesmerising dance response to Sonia Boyce’s art at the AGO. Dancer Andrea Nann will perform on the first Wednesday night, creating an intimate, engaging art experience.

• Date & Time: November 6, 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM 
• Location: Art Gallery of Ontario (317 Dundas St, Toronto)
• Admission: Book your free tickets here.
• Website: www.ago.ca
• Category: Art Lovers, Friends, Unique Experience

Snowflake Kiss & Warm Wishes Holiday Market (November 9)

Get cosy at the Snowflake Kiss & Warm Wishes Market, where 65+ vendors offer the holiday cheer you need. Browse crafts, snack on tasty treats, and be part of family-friendly activities while supporting local businesses.

• Date & Time: November 9, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 
• Location: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.themommarketco.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Holiday Fun

European Union Film Festival (November 14 – 28)

Featuring films from 27 countries, this hybrid fest gives you everything from heartwarming dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and travel through stories from across the continent.

• Date & Time: November 14 – 28, Check schedule here.
• Location: Spadina Theatre – Alliance Française (24 Spadina Road, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.euffto.com
• Category: For Friends, Film Buffs, Cultural Experience

Santa Paws (November 16)

Need a tail-wagging holiday treat? This event is about festive vibes and adorable moments with your furry friend. Head to The Living Room for a heartwarming photo-op with Santa. It’s a perfect setting for a holiday pic with your pup.

• Date & Time: November 16, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM 
• Location: The Kimpton Saint George (280 Bloor St W, Toronto
• Admission: Free. More info here. 
• Category: Family-friendly, Pet-friendly, Holiday Spirit

Holiday Artisan Market @ Riverdale Hub (November 16)

Holiday shopping just got a lot more creative. Drop by the Riverdale Hub to shop for unique gifts, such as jewellery, pottery, embroidered accessories, and tote bags. Plus, there’s an exclusive exhibition by Nancy Moore with an artist talk at 3 PM. Need a break? Check out the arts and crafts table on the 3rd floor for a fun, hands-on break with family and friends.

• Date & Time: November 16, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM 
• Location: Riverdale Hub (1326 Gerrard Street East, Toronto)
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.riverdalehub.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Arts & Crafts, Holiday Market

Taylor Academy Showcase Concert (November 16)

Want to experience the future stars of classical music? The Phil and Eli Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists hosts a concert featuring some of Canada’s most gifted young musicians. This event is a chance to hear incredible talent in the making.

• Date & Time: November 16, starts at 4:30 PM 
• Location: Mazzoleni Concert Hall (273 Bloor St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Get your free tickets here.
• Website: www.rcmusic.com
• Category: Culture, Family-friendly, Music Lovers

Jubilee Christmas Market (November 16) 

Christmas shopping starts early here with handmade jewellery, hand-painted items, and festive things. Local artisans are setting up shop to bring you unique holiday gifts you won’t find in stores. Also, there are delicious baked goods to enjoy along the way.

• Date & Time: November 16, 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM 
• Location: Jubilee United Church (40 Underhill Drive near Lawrence & DVP, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.jubileeunited.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Market, Shopping

Old Mill Holiday Fest & Butter Tart Market (November 17)

Butter tarts, baked goods, and local vendors – need more? This cozy holiday fest has something for every sweet tooth and gift-giver. Meet small business owners offering treats and items perfect for the holiday season.

• Date & Time: November 17, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM 
• Location: Old Mill Toronto (21 Old Mill Road, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Category: Family-friendly, Shopping, Foodie

Fairmont Tree Lighting Ceremony and Window Reveal (November 20)

The perfect way to start your holiday season in true Toronto style? Join the city’s annual tradition at the Fairmont Royal York as they light up their grand tree. There are also festive window displays, Santa, carolers, and a live performance by Matt Dusk.

• Date & Time: November 20, Window Reveal on Front Street (4:30 PM), Tree Lighting (5:00 PM) 
• Location: Fairmont Royal York (100 Front St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.thefairmontroyalyork.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Spirit

Indigenous Artisan Marketplace 2024 (November 22–24 and November 29–December 1)

Support Indigenous artisans and find unique items at this beautiful marketplace, open on two weekends this month. New vendors and artists are introduced each week, so there’s always something new to discover.

• Date & Time: November 22 – 24, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM 
• Location: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (16 Spadina Road, Toronto)
• Admission: Get free tickets here. 
• Website: www.ncct.on.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Market, Arts & Crafts, Cultural

Blanket Fort and TV Marathon – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (November 22)

The Theatre Centre is hosting a 12-hour marathon of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It’s a perfect activity for cozy socks, PJs, and a mountain of junk food. So, relax, rewatch, and embrace your inner Buffy fan.

• Date & Time: November 22, 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Location: The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free. RSVP here.
• Website: www.theatrecentre.org
• Category: Friends, Indoor Fun, Pop Culture

Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market (November 22 – 24)

Get a taste of the holiday season in nature at the Botanical Garden’s market. Expect eco-friendly, plant-inspired gifts, live music, workshops, and even outdoor campfires.

• Date: November 22 – 24
• Location: Toronto Botanical Garden (777 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Market, Eco-Friendly

Her Holiday Market – Shop Women-Owned Businesses (November 23 – 24)

Empower and support women entrepreneurs by shopping for unique gifts from women-owned businesses. This market is beyond shopping – connecting, supporting, and sharing in the holiday spirit.

• Date & Time: November 23 – 24, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM 
• Location: Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.thetrendingtable.ca
• Category: Holiday Market, Shopping

Santa in the Village (November 23)

Santa is coming to town, bringing gingerbread cookies, crafts, and music. Join this free holiday event to snap a pic with Santa, meet characters like the Grinch, and enjoy live carolers.

• Date & Time: November 23, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM 
• Location: Green P Parking Lot – Bloor St and Armadale Ave (Carpark 91) 265 Armadale Ave., Toronto
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.bloorwestvillagebia.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Pet-friendly, Holiday Spirit, Kids Activities

Holly Berry Fair Rosedale (November 23)

Santa’s workshop, handmade gifts, and home baking make it a classic Christmas market. Here, you can find unique treasures, join a silent auction, and even have lunch at Fran’s Deli.

• Date & Time: November 23, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM 
• Location: Rosedale United Church (159 Roxborough Drive, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.rosedaleunited.org
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Market, Community Event

Swedish Christmas Fair (November 23 – 24)

Haven’t you experienced a Nordic wonderland yet? This two-day event is about Swedish traditions, from unique crafts to delicious food and festive entertainment.  You’ll feel like you’re celebrating Christmas in Sweden.

• Date & Time: November 23 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM), November 24 (11:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
• Location: George Brown College (51 Dockside Drive,  Toronto)
• Admission: Free. RSVP here. 
• Website: www.swedishchristmasfair.ca 
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Market, Cultural

Bloor-Yorkville Holiday Magic (November 23 – December 31)

Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a winter wonderland with spectacular lights, shopping, dining, and holiday fun. On November 23, don’t miss the tree-lighting ceremony and the chance to warm up by the new Urban Campfire Benches.

• Date: November 23 – December 31
• Location: Village of Yorkville Park (115 Cumberland Street, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.bloor-yorkville.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Outdoor Fun, Holiday Spirit

Toronto Santa Claus Parade (November 24)

Witness Toronto’s beloved Santa Claus Parade, featuring floats, bands, and a visit from the one and only Santa. This century-old tradition brings joy to the city’s streets and families together to celebrate the season.

• Date & Time: November 24, starts at 12:30 PM 
• Location: Starting at Christie Pits to St Lawrence Market
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.thesantaclausparade.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Holiday Spirit, Parade

Holiday Open House (November 28)

Discover galleries, shops, and cafes under one roof at the 401 Richmond Open House. It’s a holiday shopping spree with unique artwork, jewelry, and special holiday gifts.

• Date & Time: November 28, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM 
• Location: 401 Richmond (401 Richmond St West, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.401richmond.com
• Category: Holiday Market, Shopping, Art

One Hundred More. Dance Performance (November 28)

Experience a powerful performance by women of colour exploring resilience, anger, and collective memory themes. This dance performance challenges and inspires through movement, rhythm, and a call to resist and embrace change.

• Date & Time: November 28, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM 
• Location: The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.torontobiennial.org
• Category: Cultural, Art & Performance

Regent Park Film Festival (November 28 – December 1)

Toronto’s longest-running community film fest returns, showcasing stories from Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour communities. Enjoy a mix of local and international films from November 28 to December 1 at this engaging, free event.

• Date: November 28 – December 1 
• Location: 585 Dundas Street East, Toronto
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.rpff.ca 
• Category: Film, Cultural, Community Event

CPKC Holiday Train (November 29) 

Catch the CPKC Holiday Train as it lights up the tracks across Canada, raising donations for food banks. With live performances and a stunningly decorated train, it’s the perfect holiday outing with a cause.

• Date & Time: November 29, 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM 
• Location: 750 Runnymede Rd., Toronto
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.cpkcr.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Outdoor Fun, Holiday Spirit

Cavalcade of Lights Opening (November 30)

Don’t miss Toronto’s famous Cavalcade of Lights opening at Nathan Phillips Square. From tree lighting to live performances and skating, it’s the ultimate winter wonderland and marks the city’s holiday season kick-off.

• Date : November 30, 2024 – January 7, 2025
• Location: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.toronto.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Outdoor Fun, Holiday Spirit

Love Songs to End Colonization (November 30)

Join artists Peter Morin and Jimmie Kilpatrick for a karaoke experience with a purpose. Repurposing love songs, they invite everyone to sing, clap, and groove to dismantle colonialism with joy and connection.

• Date & Time: November 30, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Location: The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto)
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.torontobiennial.org
• Category: Community, Cultural

References:

• https://www.todocanada.ca/free-fun-things-toronto-november
• https://www.destinationtoronto.com/things-to-do/free-things-to-do
• https://curiocity.com/free-and-cheap-things-to-do-toronto-november-2024
• https://www.hungry416.com/best-things-to-do-this-week-november-4-to-10
• https://www.hungry416.com/best-things-to-do-this-week-november-18-to-24-in-toronto
• https://www.hungry416.com/things-to-do-this-week-november-25-to-december-1