Things to Do in Toronto and GTA This Week (August 26-September 1)
Toronto and its surrounding areas are bustling with exciting events this week. Summer might be winding down, but Toronto is turning up the fun for Labour Day week and weekend.
If you’re looking for ways to soak up every last bit of sunshine and good vibes, you’re in luck. The city is bursting with awesome events and activities that will keep your calendar full and your spirits high. From epic street festivals and sizzling pool parties to chill day trips and late-night adventures, there’s no shortage of cool things to do. So, grab your friends, pick your favorites, and get ready to make this Labour Day one for the books.
to do This Week and Weekend
Events in Toronto & nearby areas
Here’s your ultimate guide to what’s happening around the city from August 26 (Monday) to September 1 (Sunday). We also post weekly summary updates on our social media, so make sure to follow us!
Toronto Dragon Festival 2024
- Where: Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen Street West Toronto)
- Admission: Free
- Experience the vibrant culture of the East at the Toronto Dragon Festival 2024 (August 30 to September 1). This thrilling festival features traditional dragon and lion dances and martial arts performances. It’s also among the things to do in Toronto this week, where you can try a variety of Asian cuisine.
Toronto International BuskerFest 2024
- Date: August 30 – September 2, 2024
- Location: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1G7
- Admission: Suggested donation of $5 per person (proceeds go to Epilepsy Toronto)
- The Toronto International BuskerFest returns to Woodbine Park, bringing with it four days of spectacular street performances and entertainment from around the world! This lively festival features acrobats, magicians, musicians, and other talented street performers who will amaze and delight audiences of all ages.
- In addition to the performances, the festival offers food vendors, a beer garden, and a family fun zone, making it a perfect outing for everyone. The festival also supports a great cause, with a suggested donation of $5 per person going to Epilepsy Toronto.
- Whether you’re looking for jaw-dropping acts, delicious food, or just a fun day out with friends and family, the Toronto International BuskerFest is the place to be this Labour Day weekend.
Mississauga Night Market
- Date: August 30 – September 1, 2024, 4-11PM
- Location: Square One Mall, Parking 6, 100 City Centre Dr, Mississauga, ON L5B 2C9
- Admission: Free
- Experience a bustling night market filled with food vendors, artisans, and live entertainment. The Mississauga Night Market is the perfect place to try new foods, shop for unique items, and soak up the vibrant evening atmosphere.
Seven Lions at Rebel
- Date: August 30, 2024
- Location: Rebel, 11 Polson St, Toronto, ON M5A 1A4
- Admission: $50-$100 (19+ event)
- Tickets: ticketweb.ca/event/seven-lions-rebel-tickets/13842793
- Dance the night away to the sounds of Seven Lions, one of the leading names in electronic music, at Rebel. This 19+ event promises an unforgettable night of beats, lights, and high energy.
ABYC LobsterFest
- Date: August 30, 2024
- Location: Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club, 30 Ashbridges Bay Park Rd, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6
- Admission: $85 per person
- Reservations Required: abyc.ca/events/abyc-lobsterfest/
- Savor a delicious lobster dinner with all the fixings at the annual ABYC LobsterFest. Enjoy great food, live music, and stunning views of Ashbridge’s Bay while mingling with fellow seafood lovers.
Toronto Vegan Drinks
- Date: Friday, August 29, 2024, 6:30-9:30PM
- Location: 2907 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1Z1
- Admission: Free (food and drinks available for purchase)
- Meet fellow vegan enthusiasts at Toronto Vegan Drinks, a casual gathering for those who enjoy plant-based food and beverages. Held at a cozy venue, this event is a great way to socialize and enjoy delicious vegan offerings.
Brazillian Heat – Cabana Pool Bar
- Date: Sat, August 31, 2024 1-7PM
- Location: Cabana Pool Bar, 11 Polson St, Toronto, ON M5A 1A4
- Admission: $20-$40
- Doors: 1:00pm
- FREE BEFOR 3PM WEARING GREEN OR YELLOW
- LADIES FREE BEFORE 3:00PM WHEN CLAIMING TICKETS.
- This is a 19+ event, so make sure to bring your valid photo ID.
- Tickets: cabanapoolbar.com/cabana-pool-bar-saturday-august-31/
- Get ready to turn up the heat at Cabana Pool Bar’s Brazilian Heat Cabana Saturday. Celebrate the vibrant culture of Brazil with pulsating beats, lively dancing, and a festive atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this sizzling summer celebration.
Clapton at Cabana Pool Bar
- Date: September 1, 2024
- Location: Cabana Pool Bar, 11 Polson St, Toronto, ON M5A 1A4
- Admission: $20-$40
- Doors: 1:00pm
- FREE BEFORE 3PM WEARING ALL WHITE
- This is a LEGAL AGE 19+ event. Valid photo ID required.
- Tickets: cabanapoolbar.com/cabana-pool-bar-saturday-claptone/
- End your week with a splash at the Clapton Cabana Pool Bar event. Featuring live music, poolside vibes, and refreshing cocktails, this is the perfect way to soak up the last days of summer in style.
Taste of Bangladesh
- Date: August 31, 2024
- Location: Danforth Rd and Birchmount Rd, Toronto, ON
- Admission: Free
- More Info: facebook.com/events/danforth-road-and-birchmount-road/taste-of-bangladesh-/1622935638505124/
- Indulge in the rich flavors of Bangladeshi cuisine at the Taste of Bangladesh festival. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, live performances, and cultural displays that showcase the vibrant Bangladeshi community in Toronto.
RED FM Canada Bhangra Jam
- Date: August 31, 2024
- Location: Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1
- Admission: Free
- More Info: redfm.ca/summerbhangrajam/
- Get ready to dance at the RED FM Bhangra Jam! This energetic event is a celebration of Punjabi culture, featuring live Bhangra performances, music, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a must-attend for anyone who loves lively music and dancing.
Welland Salsa & Cumbia Festival
- Date: August 31-September 1
Location: Merritt Park Amphitheatre, 151 King St, Welland, ON L3B 3J4
Admission: Free - More Info: myniagaraonline.com/mywelland/event/welland-salsa-cumbia-festival/
- Dance the night away at the Welland Salsa & Cumbia Festival! This lively event brings the sounds and rhythms of Latin America to Welland, with live music, dance performances, and food vendors offering delicious Latin cuisine.
T.U. Jazz Fest 2024
- Where: Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St, North York)
- Admission: Free
- The T.U. Jazz Fest 2024 (August 30 to September 2) brings together some of the best jazz musicians for a weekend of smooth, soulful, and captivating performances. This family-friendly event features two outdoor stages, masterclasses, and a World Eats Market.
Bark in the Park TO
- Where: Woodbine Park (1695 Queen Street East Toronto)
- Admission: By Donation to Epilepsy Toronto
- Bark in the Park TO (August 30 to September 2), part of Toronto’s BuskerFest, is a must-visit for anyone who adores furry friends. Enjoy dog-friendly activities, pet vendors, and entertaining busker performances.
Canadian International Air Show
- Where: Marilyn Bell Park (1095 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto)
- Admission: Tickets via Canadian International Air Show
Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Canadian International Air Show (August 31 to September 2) this Labour Day weekend. Watch in awe as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, CF-18 Demonstration Team, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, and more perform thrilling stunts.
Viva La Leaside Festival 2024
Where: Motorista Studio (25 Commercial Rd Unit 9, Toronto)
Admission: Tickets via Viva La Leaside
Join the Leaside community for the Viva La Leaside Festival 2024 (August 31 to September 1), a fun-filled event featuring local vendors, live music, an array of vehicles, and family activities. It’s among the things to do in Toronto this week that lets you support local businesses while enjoying the vibrant community spirit.
Sean Jone Summer Soul Concert
- Where: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W. Toronto)
- Admission: Tickets via Harbourfront Centre
Celebrate five decades of rhythm and blues with Sean Jones on August 29. This special concert promises a night filled with soulful tunes and classic hits that will get you grooving.
In-Studio Paint Night – Glow in the Dark Spin Art Paint Pouring
- Where: Fresh Paint Studio Danforth East (1849 Danforth Avenue, Toronto)
- Admission: Tickets via Fresh Paint Studio
- The In-Studio Paint Night – Glow in the Dark Spin Art Paint Pouring (August 29) is a unique workshop that lets you create stunning, glow-in-the-dark masterpieces. It’s one of the fun, creative things to do in Toronto this week to spend an evening with friends.
Gazillion Bubble Show
- Where: CAA Theatre (651 Yonge St, Toronto)
- Admission: Tickets via Mirvish
- At the Gazillion Bubble Show (August 1 to September 1), you’ll be amazed by Fan Yang’s mesmerizing bubble artistry. This magical performance is filled with lights, lasers, and, of course, abundant bubbles.
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