Summer’s in full swing with events in Toronto and this August isn’t showing signs of slowing down anytime soon!
This month is offering up a packed lineup of things to do across the 6ix, from mouthwatering food festivals to extraordinary art exhibits and outstanding open-air stage productions. Whether you’re a seasoned Torontonian or just looking to explore all the city’s happenings, August is the perfect excuse to get outside and make the most of summer before fall starts creeping in.
Here are 10 experiences to check out in Toronto this August.
ART, MEDIA & DESIGN
It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley
Date: August 15 to 16
Location: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema
Admission: $15
Coming to the Hot Docs big screen is It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley, a must-see for music lovers and dreamers alike!
This documentary dives deep into musician Jeff Buckley’s short but major impact on the music world, from his debut album Grace to the tragic accident that ended his life at 30 years old. Showcasing never-before-seen archival footage, raw home videos, and emotional interviews with those who knew him best, don’t miss this powerful tribute to a legendary artist.
For more information, click here.
CULTURE
The NEW Immersive Van Gogh: The Next Chapter
Date: On until September 1
Location: One Yonge Street
Admission: $28
This global sensation is returning to the city for another stop, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more breathtaking than ever.
The NEW Immersive Van Gogh: The Next Chapter invites you to step deeper into the beautiful and emotional world of renowned artist Vincent van Gogh, reimagining the original experience with stunning new visuals and storytelling.
Held inside One Yonge Street, journey from the golden fields of Provence to his final days through stellar projections that turn his iconic brushstrokes into moving architecture and shifting landscapes.
Perfect for both first-time visitors and returning fans, this next chapter doesn’t just showcase Van Gogh’s art, it pulls you inside it!
For more information, click here.
FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Brews N’ Chews
Date: August 13 and 27
Location: STACKT Market
Admission: Free
Toronto’s favourite pup meetup is back for another tail-wagging season!
Brews N’ Chews takes over the Bark Yard at STACKT Market on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month, serving up good vibes, cold drinks, and plenty of fun for you and your furry best friend.
This month, stop by for $6 happy hour, drinks, great tunes, and free puppiccinos for your four-legged friend.
For more information, click here.
2025 JerkFest Toronto
Date: August 8 to 10
Location: Centennial Park
Admission: $15
Taste authentic island flavour this summer at JerkFest, Toronto’s ultimate celebration of Caribbean culture, cuisine, and community!
This August, Centennial Park is transforming into the ultimate tropical escape filled with savoury jerk dishes, live music, cooking demos, and high-energy food contests.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet top chefs, and soak in the rhythms and vibes of Jamaican music, with superstars like Tarrus Riley and Valiant set to hit the stage.
For more information, click here.
Cat Video Fest 2025
Date: August 8 to 14
Location: Fox Theatre
Admission: $12.61
A purr-fect way to spend your afternoon would be heading to the Fox Theatre for Cat Video Fest 2025!
This event offers 75 minutes of family-friendly feline fun on the big screen. From heartwarming rescues to hilarious antics, this curated reel features the very best and viral cat clips from around the world.
More than just a feel-good screening, Cat Video Fest also raises funds for local cat shelters and rescue organizations, so a ticket helps real cats in need.
For more information, click here.
MUSIC
VELD Music Festival
Date: August 1 to 3
Location: Downsview Park
Admission: Starting at $254
Canada’s biggest EDM festival returns this August long weekend to Downsview Park with over 50 artists across three massive stages! VELD’s stacked headliners include Alesso, Deadmau5, Tiësto, Loud Luxury and many more.
This year, fans can expect world-class production, LED visuals, fireworks, flames, and non-stop action all weekend long. Don’t miss the party of the summer!
For more information, click here.
Shaking the Foundations
Date: On throughout August
Location: Friar’s Music Museum
Admission: Free
The women behind Toronto’s ever-blossoming music scene are taking centre stage at this exhibition.
Shaking the Foundations: Women Trailblazers in Toronto Music is a new exhibit at Friar’s Music Museum (located on the second floor in Shoppers Drug Mart at 279 Yonge Street), which celebrates the creative and cultural impact of women who’ve made their mark across every genre, from rock and hip-hop to jazz, folk, and beyond.
Curated by veteran music journalist Mary Dickie and presented by Downtown Yonge BIA in partnership with Toronto Music Experience, this first-of-its-kind exhibit pays tribute to the artists, icons, and innovators who built the foundations of Toronto’s sound. From Carole Pope to Jully Black, stop by and bear witness to rare photos, artifacts, and stories that amplify the often overlooked voices of the city.
For more information, click here.
STAGE
Romeo & Juliet
Date: On until August 31
Location: High Park Amphitheatre
Admission: Starting at $20
Watch as star-crossed lovers meet under the stars in Romeo and Juliet at High Park Amphitheatre, a fresh, open-air take on Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy.
Directed by Marie Farsi, this passionate production breathes new life into the classic tale of love, fate, and family.
Now in its 42nd season, Dream in High Park remains one of Toronto’s most beloved summer traditions. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy an unforgettable evening of theatre amongst the trees!
For more information, click here.
Canadian International Air Show
Date: August 30 to September 1
Location: Marilyn Bell Park
Admission: Starting at $103
Toronto skies will come alive once again during Labour Day weekend, as the 76th Canadian International Air Show is expected to take off!
Soaring above Marilyn Bell Park, this year’s flight lineup includes fan favourites like the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the CF-18 Demo Team, and the F-35 Demo Team, plus the legendary P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight.
After the air show, explore the family-friendly STEM Zone, enjoy local eats at the Refueling Station, and get up close with aircraft displays and VR experiences!
For more information, click here.
SPORTS
GLOBL JAM 2025
Date: August 13 to 17
Location: Mattamy Athletic Centre
Admission: Starting at $25
GLOBL JAM is coming to Toronto this summer, showcasing the next generation of basketball stars in an elite U23 international showdown.
Catch the top men’s and women’s teams from around the world go head-to-head at the historic Mattamy Athletic Centre, all broadcast nationwide on Sportsnet!
For more information, click here.
