Ready to make the most of your weekend in Toronto? This bustling city has something for everyone, from family-friendly events, live performances and art exhibitions, outdoor attractions and home to beautiful Inuit visual arts. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of exciting activities happening in Toronto, so grab your calendar and start planning your unforgettable getaway!
Family-friendly weekend activities
Toronto offers a variety of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained this weekend. From outdoor Cat Festivals to the Toronto Botanical Garden, there’s no shortage of fun for the entire family. Choose from a diverse selection of events designed to captivate and engage children and adults alike, creating lasting memories in the process.
Don’t miss the alluring outdoor movies By Moonlight events, where you can enjoy a free family-friendly movie under the stars. Grab some snacks and a blanket, and head over to Garden Square for an enchanting evening of cinematic magic. With events like these, Toronto proves to be the perfect destination for families seeking adventure and excitement this weekend.
Outdoor festival: cat festival
Calling all cat lovers! The outdoor Cat Festival is a purr-fect event for feline enthusiasts, cat lovers gather and celebrate their love for these adorable creatures. This all summer long event features cat-themed activities, food vendors, and entertainment that will have you and your family grinning from ear to ear. From cat-themed art and crafts to delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone at this unique street festival.
The Cat Festival offers:
- Live music
- Cat-themed performances
- Interactive activities
- Prizes to be won
- Personal retrospective exhibition titled “Cats in Art”
- A special screening from the Christie Pits Film Festival
This one-of-a-kind event, with free admission, is sure to leave you and your family with unforgettable memories in downtown Toronto.
Jurassic world experience
Step into the prehistoric world of dinosaurs with the Jurassic World Experience, an immersive exhibition that will transport you back in time. This interactive attraction allows you to explore scenes inspired by the popular Jurassic World film franchise and encounter life-size dinosaurs up close. As the first major survey exhibition of its kind, the Jurassic World Experience promises to be a roaring success for dino-lovers of all ages.
Take your time exploring the interactive scenes and marvel at the incredible attention to detail in the dinosaur exhibits. The exhibition is estimated to take 45 minutes to an hour, but there’s no time limit once you enter, so you can fully immerse yourself in this prehistoric adventure.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to walk among the giants of the past at the Jurassic World Experience.
Movies by Moonlight
Experience the magic of outdoor cinema at the Movies By Moonlight event, taking place in various locations throughout Toronto during the summer months. This enchanting event offers:
- Films screened in the evening, illuminated by the soft glow of moonlight
- A unique and memorable cinematic experience
- The perfect way to spend a warm summer evening with your family, watching your favorite movies beneath the stars.
Movies are screened at Garden Square, providing an opportunity for families to enjoy a free, family-friendly movie outdoors. So pack your blankets and snacks, and head over to Garden Square for an unforgettable movie night under the stars.
Live performances & concerts
Toronto’s vibrant arts scene comes alive during the weekend with an array of live performances and concerts that cater to a variety of tastes. From side-splitting comedy to romantic comedy shows at the famous Comedy Bar to classical music performances at the Toronto Summer Music festival, there’s no shortage of entertainment for visitors and locals alike. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural offerings and create lasting memories with friends and family.
For theater enthusiasts, don’t miss the opportunity to catch a Broadway-style show at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre. With productions like Hamilton and Hadestown, you’ll be transported to a world of mesmerizing storytelling and captivating performances. Toronto’s live performance and concert scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.
Comedy bar
Get ready to laugh out loud at Comedy Bar, a popular comedy club in Toronto. This lively venue features local and international comedians performing stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy, ensuring an evening full of laughter and entertainment.
Whether you’re a fan of witty stand-up routines or prefer the spontaneity of improv comedy, Comedy Bar has got you covered. Grab your friends and enjoy a night of laughter that will leave you in stitches.
With a welcoming atmosphere and top-notch comedic talent, Comedy Bar is the perfect place to unwind and share laughter with loved ones.
Toronto summer music
Experience the enchanting sounds of classical music at the Toronto Summer Music festival, which takes place every summer. This event showcases talented musicians from around the world, and the summer edition offers a variety of classical music performances, as well as other prominent and inuit musical expression genres throughout, for music lovers to indulge in.
Whether you’re a fan of classical masterpieces, prominent musical genres or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, the Toronto Summer Music festival promises an unforgettable auditory experience. With its diverse lineup of world-class musicians and stunning performances, this festival is a must-visit event for music lovers.
Royal Alexandra Theatre
Step into the world of theatre at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre, located in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment district. Constructed in 1907, this esteemed theatre is the oldest legitimate theatre in continuous operation in North America. Boasting a rich history and stunning architecture, the Royal Alexandra Theatre is the perfect venue to experience Broadway-style shows.
Catch the best musical theatre album productions like Hamilton and Hadestown, which transport audiences to captivating worlds filled with mesmerizing storytelling and unforgettable performances. With its impressive lineup of shows and rich cultural history, the Royal Alexandra Theatre is a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Art exhibitions & galleries
Toronto’s vibrant art scene offers a diverse array of exhibitions and gallery tours that showcase both contemporary and traditional works. From emerging artists at York University’s art exhibitions to thought-provoking installations at the Toronto Sculpture Garden, there’s no shortage of artistic inspiration to be found in this bustling city. Immerse yourself in the creative energy of Toronto’s art scene and uncover hidden gems along the way.
York University presents art
Discover the innovative works of emerging artists at York University’s art exhibitions, showcasing the creations of both students and faculty members. The School of Arts, Media, Performance and Design (AMPD) at York University organizes and presents numerous art events and exhibitions annually, including a songwriting and performance program, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists to display their talents.
From painting and sculpture to photography and video installations, these events feature a diverse range of artistic expressions and styles. Attend solo and group exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process and the inspiration behind each piece at the exciting major exhibition, including a major solo exhibition.
Delve into the world of contemporary art at York University and witness the birth of new artistic visions, as youth and emerging artists showcase their talents.
Toronto Sculpture Garden
Take a peaceful stroll through the Toronto Sculpture Garden, a small park located off King Street that showcases temporary public art displays. This unique outdoor space features a variety of sculptures, installations, and artworks from both local and international artists, providing a serene environment for art appreciation and contemplation.
The Toronto Sculpture Garden offers:
- A beautiful green space
- Thought-provoking art installations
- Ever-changing displays
- Diverse range of artistic styles
It is a must-visit destination for art lovers and those seeking an oasis of tranquility in the city.
Sports and recreation events
Get active and engage in some friendly competition with sports and recreation events in Toronto. Here are some options for you:
- Casual Chess Fridays: Test your strategic skills in a friendly game of chess.
- Scarborough Shooting Stars: Cheer on the team in a thrilling basketball game.
- Outdoor fitness class: Join a class in one of Toronto’s beautiful parks to get fit and enjoy the outdoors.
With a variety of activities and events to choose from, there’s no excuse not to get moving and have some fun this weekend!
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply looking for a way to stay active and entertained, Toronto’s sports and recreation events provide the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and have a great time. So gather your friends and family and enjoy a weekend filled with excitement and friendly competition.
Outdoor fitness classes
Stay fit and have fun with outdoor fitness classes in Toronto’s picturesque parks. These classes offer a range of workout styles and intensities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Some of the types of classes available include:
- Boot camps
- Pilates
- Cardio
- Sports conditioning
Outdoor fitness classes provide a fantastic opportunity to exercise in the fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of Toronto’s parks.
Not only do outdoor fitness classes offer a refreshing change of scenery, but they also provide numerous benefits such as natural antidepressants, mental respite, and social interaction. These classes can take place all over the city such as Bloor West Village, Celebration Square, and Dundas street west, as well as so many more locations. So grab your workout gear and head to one of Toronto’s beautiful parks for an invigorating and enjoyable outdoor fitness class that will leave you feeling energized and revitalized.
Workshops and masterclasses
Enhance your skills and unleash your creativity with workshops and masterclasses in Toronto. Covering a range of topics such as dance, soap making, and mosaic art, these events provide the perfect opportunity to learn something new and explore your passions. Whether you’re looking to develop a new hobby or refine your existing talents, Toronto’s workshops and masterclasses offer a wealth of opportunities for personal growth and development.
From Bollywood dance workshops that teach energetic moves to natural holistic soap-making classes that emphasize organic ingredients, there’s no shortage of unique and engaging experiences to be found in Toronto. So why not take the plunge and immerse yourself in one of these inspiring workshops or masterclasses this weekend?
Bollywood dance workshop
Get your dancing shoes on and learn the energetic moves of Bollywood dance in a fun and welcoming workshop suitable for all ages and abilities. This engaging class teaches the unique styles of Bollywood dance and its musicality, providing a fantastic opportunity to get active and have fun while learning something new. With its vibrant music and energetic moves, Bollywood dance is an exciting and exhilarating experience that you won’t want to miss.
The Bollywood Dance Workshop is designed to provide a fun and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and encouraged to participate. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this workshop promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling energized and inspired.
Natural holistic soap making
Create your own natural, holistic soap in a hands-on workshop that emphasizes the use of essential oils and organic ingredients. Learn the art of soap making and discover the benefits of using natural, plant-based ingredients in your skincare routine. With expert guidance and a supportive environment, this workshop provides the perfect opportunity to explore the world of natural soap making and create your own custom creations.
In the Natural Holistic Soap Making workshop, you’ll learn about the various ingredients used in the process, such as:
- plant-based oils
- essential oils
- herbs
- other natural additives
By the end of the class, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to create your own natural, holistic soap that not only cleanses but also nourishes and nurtures your skin.
Introduction to mosaics
Discover the beautiful art of mosaic making in an introductory class that teaches the techniques for creating intricate and stunning designs. With expert instruction and hands-on practice, this workshop will guide you through the process of cutting and shaping tiles, assembling them into a design, and grouting the finished piece. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply looking for a new creative outlet, this workshop offers a fantastic opportunity to learn a timeless and captivating art form.
The Introduction to Mosaics class covers a range of materials used in mosaic making, including:
- glass
- stone
- ceramic
- other materials
With a focus on technique and creativity, this workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of mosaics and the skills needed to create your own beautiful and intricate designs.
Outdoor events and attractions
Experience the wonders of Toronto’s outdoor attractions by participating in walking tours, historical explorations, and immersive escape games. From the stunning architecture and gardens at the Aga Khan Museum and Park, to Cherry beach park, to the hidden gems and fascinating history of the Financial District, there’s no shortage of incredible outdoor experiences to be had in this vibrant city. Other outdoor events include the Black Creek Pioneer village, the city’s largest Brazilian cultural event of Toronto international Brazilfest, the Backroom Comedy Club for those looking for a good laugh, as well as the Philippine regional festivals. So strap on your walking shoes and get ready to uncover the secrets of Toronto’s great outdoors.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for an engaging outdoor activity, Toronto’s outdoor events and attractions offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery. So, why not take advantage of the beautiful summer weather and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors this weekend?
Aga Khan Park walking tour
Take a guided tour of the stunning Aga Khan Park, learning about its architecture, gardens, and cultural significance. This 50-minute walking tour within North York offers an in-depth look at the park’s carefully selected flowers and plants, tranquil water features, and Persian-inspired formal gardens. As a modern interpretation of a garden from Muslim civilizations, the Aga Khan Park symbolizes peace and understanding between cultures. This is definitely one of the Toronto archives you need to check out!
Financial District exploration
Delve into Toronto’s financial district on a walking tour that explores its history, architecture, and hidden gems. As the heart of Toronto’s business district, the Financial District boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the early 19th century. This walking tour will guide you through the district’s iconic buildings and landmarks, providing an in-depth look into the architectural and commercial development of the city.
From the modern glass and steel of the Toronto-Dominion Centre to the traditional brick and stone of the Royal Bank Plaza, the Financial District showcases a diverse array of architectural styles. Additionally, the area is home to several public art installations and hidden alleyways and courtyards waiting to be discovered.
With a wealth of history and culture at every turn, the Financial District is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the heart of Toronto.
Summary
From family-friendly events and live performances to art exhibitions and Toronto’s annual summer market, Toronto offers a multitude of exciting activities and experiences for visitors and locals alike. This weekend, take advantage of the diverse range of events happening throughout the city and create lasting memories with friends and family. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Toronto. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the vibrant world of Toronto and discover the hidden gems that make this city truly unforgettable.
Frequently asked questions
What types of comedy shows are available at Comedy Bar?
Comedy Bar offers a variety of comedy shows, including sketch, improv, alternative, and stand-up.
Which galleries are included on the Queen Street West Gallery Tour?
The Queen Street West Gallery Tour features the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
These three galleries are renowned for their collections of modern and contemporary art, and offer a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant art scene of Toronto. Visitors can explore the galleries at their own pace, and take in the works of some of the artists.
What materials are utilized in mosaic making?
Mosaic making incorporates various materials such as glass, stone, ceramic, and other materials.