There’s nothing like a summer in Toronto, and with the warm weather upon us and the days finally long enough to enjoy yourself outside well into the evening, now is the time to make plans. From annual events to one-off celebrations, Toronto is the place to be during the summer, and this year the city has dozens of free events for residents to check out throughout the season.
Public Art Tour along Dundas St W
Location: starts at 1628 Dundas St W
Date: June 27 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Check out multiple stunning murals and other art painted along Dundas St W with a guided tour. This free experience will have attendees explore the Dundas West Open Air Museum, taking in many vibrant and diverse murals throughout Little Portugal, from Lansdowne Ave to Shaw St. Reserve your spot soon to ensure you don’t miss out.
Toronto Summer Vibes Fest
Location: Trillium Park, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
Date: June 26 to June 28, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This summer festival is one you don’t want to miss, with Trillium Park transforming into a spot to soak in the sun, listen to music, watch performances, and participate in activities across the space. This free event brings the community together to kick off the season.
FIFA FanFest and Watch Parties
Location: Fort York Historical Site and The Bentway, Nathan Phillip Square, and more
Date: Multiple match days
As the FIFA World Cup hits the midway mark, Torontonians should make sure they catch a game before it ends on July 19, 2026. With many opportunities across the city to watch the game for free and join in the festivities, residents have plenty of spots to pick from. Be sure to keep an eye out for which teams are scheduled to play and when to catch the match for free at FIFA FanFest, Nathan Phillips Square, or the Distillery District.
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Canada Day at Downsview Park
Location: 70 Canuck Ave
Date: July 1 – 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
This annual Canada Day celebration is a major one in the city. It’s a massive festival celebrating the country’s birthday, and the park grounds are filled with live entertainment, games for kids, inflatables, vendors, food trucks, and of course, fireworks to end the night.
Summer Music in the Garden
Location: Toronto Music Garden, 479 Queens Quay W
Date: Every Thursday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. all summer-long
Check out an intimate live music experience by the waterfront, with the Harbourfront Centre Summer Music in the Garden series, featuring local music artists showcasing multicultural performances.
Up to 20 musicians and storytellers will take the stage this summer, including JUNO nominee Julie Lumsden, the Afrocentric choral music of The Nathaniel Dett Chorale, the electric Cuban rhythms of Montano Cubano and the Western, classical and Persian fusion of Ladom Ensemble.
Toronto Pride Parade
Location: Yonge Street from Bloor Street down to Queen Street
Date: June 28, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Celebrate inclusion and Pride while supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at the annual Pride Parade. Enjoy colourful parade floats down Yonge Street, with community staples showing their spirit and participants handing out freebies as they walk by. Try and spot the Now Toronto float while you’re there!
Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade
Location: Lake Shore Boulevard West and Exhibition Place
Date: Aug. 1 – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Jump and wave at the the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, with over a million residents coming to check out the colourful festivities annually. This event is one big party celebrating Caribbean culture, featuring delicious food, good vibes, and all the Soca, Calypso, Dancehall and Reggae music you could hope for.
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show
Location: Christie Pits, 750 Bloor St W
Date: Every Sunday until Aug. 23
This annual tradition brings thousands to Christie Pits Park for free movie nights every weekend. From comedies to romances, the park will have something for everyone. Be sure to grab a blanket and join the crowd on the hill from June 26 to June 28 for a special three-night Opening Weekend.
Looking for more things to do in the city this summer? Check out Now Toronto’s events calendar.
