We don’t have to tell you that life has gotten a lot pricier as of late. But being on a tighter budget than in years past doesn’t mean you can’t still have an epic, activity-packed summer that leaves you with countless memories.
While a day spent at the Beaches, at a public pool, or on a blanket in one of the city’s parks is a given, Toronto is also full of free events, whether you have a soft spot for live music and art, or outdoor movies.
Here are 14 free things to do in Toronto this summer – and beyond, in some cases (your wallet will thank you).
14 Free Things To Do In Toronto This Summer
1. Summer Music in the Garden
For a perfect summer evening of live music and soothing lake views – all while surrounded by greenery and flowers in the city core – check out Summer Music in the Garden at the Toronto music Garden, now through August 27. The concert series is curated by Dora award-winning music director, Gregory Oh, and features JUNO award-winning Canadian musicians and celebrated international artists. Find more info here.
2. Toronto Outdoor Picture Show
The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show has returned to offer free movies in the city’s parks all summer long. A total of 21 films will screen until August 27 at some of Toronto’s most beloved green spaces, including Christie Pits Park, Corktown Common, Bell Manor Park, and Fort York. Find more info here.
3. Third Tuesday Nights Free at the ROM
The history-packed Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) invites patrons to explore within its walls free of charge on the third Tuesday evening of each month (4:30pm to 8:30pm). This includes access to all of the museum’s galleries and their special exhibitions. Tickets are available on a first come-first serve basis. Find more info here.
4. Kensington Market’s Pedestrian Sundays
On the last Sunday of every month, the ever-eclectic Kensington Market closes its streets to cars. Instead, they fill with a vibrant assortment of vendors, food stands, live music, performances, and – of course – people, for a high-energy street festival. Pedestrian Sundays run from 12pm to 7pm until October. Find more info here.
5. Beaches Jazz Festival
The sweet sounds of some of the world’s top jazz musicians continue to fill Toronto streets all July long with the return of the annual Beaches Jazz Festival. The affair offers a slew of events and performances throughout the city. Upcoming shows include a tribute to Paul McCartney and The Beatles, all the best of Motown, and 90s hip-hop hits. Find more info here.
6. Free Night at the AGO
Every Wednesday evening (6pm-9pm), the famed Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) invites art enthusiasts to visit their esteemed collection galleries free of charge. Free general admission tickets must be booked in advance online. Find more info here.
7. Live Jazz in Trinity Square
You can still get your jazz fix after the Beaches Jazz Festival wraps for the season. Every weekend until Labour Day, music lovers can enjoy free outdoor live jazz shows in the Distillery District. The series is curated by Grammy award-winning music director Kevin Ray Clark and will take place near the Distillery District’s new patio. Find more info here.
8. City Hall Live
The City of Toronto has teamed up with multiple venues to provide free live music throughout the city all summer long. The event series features local musicians, grassroots music organizations, venues, and presenters. These concerts pop up everywhere from Union Station, to Trillium Park. Find more info here.
9. MOCA Free Nights
In the west end, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is free for the public to explore every Friday night from 5pm to 9pm. The museum’s historic building and exhibitions come to life with live performances, installations, pop-ups, activations, and more. Find more info here.
10. Sharing the Stage
On August 17-19, the National Ballet of Canada returns to Harbourfront Centre for Sharing the Stage. The dance-filled event features free outdoor performances under the stars on the concert stage, free dance classes, and interactive conversations. Find more info here.
11. The Bentway
All summer long, the Bentway – the celebrated public space initiative that transforms the underbelly of the Gardiner Expressway – is home to free artworks, events, and celebrations that that explore the ways urban nature and the built environment can co-exist. Find more info here.
12. TD Union Summer
TD Union Summer has returned to transform the outside of Union Station into an interactive destination for live performances, screenings, and food (the food will cost you, naturally). Programming includes Blue Jays game screenings, game nights, and live DJs. Find more info here.
13. High Park Zoo
If you or your kids have a soft spot for animals, the High Park Zoo offers a chance to get up close and personal with animals like capybaras, bison, llamas, and rabbits – all free of charge. In addition to the zoo, the famed, sprawling park also houses a pool, walking trails, and adventure playground, making for an activity-filled day.. Find more info here.
14. Toronto Botanical Garden
The lush, flower-filled Toronto Botanical Garden offers a peaceful break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors are able to book a 90-minute tour, which includes a guided walk through the stunning themed gardens and into the beloved Edwards Gardens. Find more info here.
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