36 things to do in Toronto this long weekend: August 30 to September 2

BuskerFest

What: Clear your calendars Toronto, the 20th annual BuskerFest will soon be here. Get ready for non-stop, action-packed, fun-filled entertainment over the Labour Day weekend. During this year’s festival, guests can enjoy exciting performances from over a hundred comedians, escape-artists, sword-swallowers, musicians, magicians, fire jugglers, acrobats, clowns, and daredevils.

When: August 30 to September 2
Time: 12 pm to 8 pm
Where: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen Street East, Toronto
Price: Donations encouraged

MURAL Toronto

What: A three-day event celebrating the international urban art movent is popping up in town this summer. Taking place at the stackt market from August 30 to September 1, MURAL Toronto will offer visitors the chance to watch artists create stunning murals, attend music shows, check out art exhibitions, enjoy panels, and more.

Where: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto
Time: 10 am to 11 pm
When: Friday, August 30 to Sunday, September 1
Admission: Free

The Funhouse

What: Queen Street West has a brand new immersive installation and it’s going to be a houseful of fun. Toronto-based art collective Mondo Forma and Universal Music Canada are bringing The Funhouse to downtown. The immersive, experiential art maze, inspired by music and created in collaboration with some of Toronto’s most exciting artists.

When: On now until September 31
Time: Doors open at 10 am
Where: 101 Lisgar Street
Price: $28 general admission

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol on IMAX at Cinesphere

What: This summer, Toronto is bringing some of the most talented and unique film directors to the big screen! Enjoy these cult classics at the iconic Cinesphere. This weekend check out Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol playing both Friday and Saturday.

When: Friday, August 30 and Saturday, August 31
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Admission: Available online. Adults, $13.27; children, $9.73

Frosh Warm Up Party

What: Soon it will be time to hit the books, but until then it’s time to party. Gear up for the first week of school and join your fellow university, college, and whatever else kind of students for a night of house music, mashups, and top 40 jams.

When: Friday, August 30
Time: 10 pm
Where: Fiction Night Club – 180 Pearl Street
Admission: Advance tickets $20, $25 at the door

Shakespeare in High Park

What: The untraditional rendition of Shakespeare returns this summer and runs until September 1. The long-running outdoor theatre event is celebrating its 37th year and takes on two classics this year. This summer’s plays include the comedic tale of love and desire, Much Ado About Nothing, and the timeless story of morality and power, Measure For Measure.

When: Tuesday to Sunday, until September 1
Time: All performances begin at 8 pm
Where: High Park Amphitheatre
Price: Tickets are pay-what-you-can

Oktoberfest at the CNE

What: Let’s all go to the Ex! It wouldn’t be summer in Toronto without at least one trip to the CNE — and this is the last weekend to do just that. And while you’re there why not attend a massive Oktoberfest celebration. Inspired by traditions started in Germany over 200 years ago, the CNE Oktoberfest will bring festivities to the fair through food, performances, and merriment.

When: August 29 to September 2
Where: Canadian National Exhibition – 210 Princes’ Boulevard
Admission: General admission to the CNE is $19.99, available online

Buskers After Dark

What: What’s better than relaxing in a park while watching a great busking show? How about relaxing in a park while watching a great busking show and enjoying a beer. Head to the Great Lakes Brewery Beer garden to watch Lemon Bucket Orkestra, Toronto’s original guerrilla-folk party-punk ensemble.

When: Friday, August 30, to Sunday, September 1
Time: 9 pm
Where: Woodbine Park, 1661 Queen St E
Admission: Free

Summer Music in the Park

What: This summer, head to Bloor-Yorkville and snag a seat by the ‘big rock and enjoy some incredible live music that ranges from jazz to traditional Cuban and Greek and Celtic.

When: On now through September 7 (Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday)
Time: Fridays, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm; Saturdays, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm; Sundays (only in July and August), 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Where: Village of Yorkville Park, Bellair and Cumberland streets
Price: Free

Saturday, August 31

Evergreen Brick Works Saturday Markets

What: The Evergreen Brick Works Saturday market has grown to become the largest farmers’ market in Toronto. Here you’ll find a wide variety of local and seasonal food from local farmers and producers.

When: Every Saturday during summer
Time: 8 am to 1 pm
Where: 550 Bayview Avenue
Price: Admission is free

High Tide: Canna-Friendly Yoga Classes on the Island

What: Grab your mat and head to the island for a relaxed yoga session where you can freely incorporate cannabis into your practice. Nestled away in Algonquin Island, the studio space is an open-air platform surrounded by lush gardens and trees, that’s also located minutes away from Ward’s Island Beach. It’s BYOC to this session but they’ll have paraphernalia like papers, vapes, and other essentials.

When: Saturday, August 31
Time: 5 pm to 7 pm
Where: 4 Omaha Avenue
Admission: $35 per person

Kensington Market Flea

What: The weekly Kensington Market Flea returns this Saturday. During the market, visitors will see plenty of independent vendors and artisans from across the city. You can check out plenty of handmade items, art, vintage clothing, records, and other locally designed goods.

When: Every Saturday until September 21
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: 214 Augusta Ave, the rear outdoor area of El Gordo Foods
Price: Free to attend

Electric Island 2019 Season Finale

What: It’s your last chance to dance at Toronto’s Electric Island summer party (until next year). Make the most of it and send the season off with an epic two-day party. Saturday’s event will feature 12 DJs across two stages, so come ready to party.

When: Friday, August 31
Time: 2 pm to 11 pm
Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W
Admission: Tickets start at $80.95, available online

MuslimFest

What: An international bazaar, food fest, art exhibits, and festival stages will combine faith traditions and Canadian culture when MuslimFest returns to the GTA over Labour Day weekend. Look forward to a line-up of entertainers, art exhibits, workshops on Arabic calligraphy, and papercrafts. Plus, a vibrant bazaar stocked with everything from fragrant oils and Turkish clothing to Middle Eastern ornaments, and more.

When: Now till September 1
Where: Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga
Admission: Free

Artfest Toronto Fall Show

What: Artfest Toronto at the Distillery Fall show takes place on Labour Day weekend for four days. This show focuses on fine art and craft with a splash of gourmet food. A curated selection of 80 artists from across Ontario, Quebec and beyond will be exhibiting their fine art and craft throughout the Historic Distillery District.

When: August 30 to September 2
Where: Distillery District, 55 Mill Street
Admission: Free

OAK + FORT Toronto Warehouse Sale 2019

What: Visit OAK + FORT on Queen Street from August 30 to September 1 at their annual Toronto Warehouse Sale to shop up to 80% off women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, and more. New styles will be added daily.

When: August 30 to September 1
Time: Friday and Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 630 Queen Street West

Toronto Society of Architects Tours – Art and Performance 2019

What: From the theatre to the symphony, movies to the fine arts, some of Toronto’s most exciting (and often controversial) buildings are those designed to house the city’s cultural institutions. Take a walking tour and explore the story of Toronto’s vibrant cultural scene through its architecture and landscapes.

When: Saturday, August 31
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: North end of David Pecaut, directly across the Royal Alexandra Theatre, 215 King Street West
Admission: $15, available online

Museum of Broken Relationships

What: Described as a physical and virtual public space created with the intention of “treasuring and sharing your heartbreak stories and symbolic possessions,” the museum is a massive reminder that you’re not alone. Tour exhibits made up of the letters, objects, and memories from past relationships.

Where: Harbourfront Centre – 235 Queens Quay West
When: Until September 8, 2019
Tickets: Free

Sunday, September 1

Canada’s Wonderland Labour Day Fireworks

What: This Labour Day Sunday, Canada’s Wonderland will present its spectacular fireworks display when the park closes at 10:00 pm (weather permitting). Spend your day enjoying over 70 awesome rides, including the all-new thrill ride Yukon Striker and then settle in for an explosive fireworks display after the sun sets.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: 10 pm
Where: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive
Admission: Included with Park Admission

Kaskade at Cabana

What: Legendary House Producer, Kaskade, makes his triumphant return to Toronto this Sunday, at Cabana Pool Bar. Come experience the legendary Kaskade as he plays all your past favourites and future classics.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: Doors open at 1:00 pm
Where: 11 Polson Street
Tickets: Available online for $55.40 – $61.55

The Distillery District Sunday Market

What: If you’re looking to splurge on some tasty treats, hit up this market happening every Sunday until the end of September. Vendors selling cured meats, organic preserves, ready-to-eat treats, and handmade gourmet chocolates are just some of the things you can feast on. And of course, you’ll be able to shop for all sorts of artisan crafts.

When: Every Sunday through September 29
Time: 12 pm to 5 pm
Where: Distillery District
Price: Free admission

Black Lab Brewing’s ART of BBQ Pop-Up

What: Dogs, brews, and BBQ, what better way to spend the first day of a new month. ART of BBQ will be making their brewery pop-up premiere at Black Lab Brewing this Sunday. Come try some of the best smokehouse BBQ in the GTA and enjoy one of Black Lab’s signature craft beers, all while having your four-legged friend along for the ride. Non-dogged humans can also attend.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: 1 pm to 6 pm
Where: 818 Eastern Ave.

Free Yoga Class in the Park hosted by Scoria

What: This is a special class open to all levels looking to energize and refresh your mindset on a Saturday morning. Connect with movement, breath, other humans, and fun. Hosted by Yoga brand Scoria, it’s an easy way to get started in your practice, or even just an excuse to do yoga outside. All you need is a mat.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: 10 am to 11 am
Where: Trinity Bellwoods Park, 790 Queen St West
Admission: Free, RSVP online

Summer Music in the Garden

What:  The Summer Music in the Garden concert series will kick off in honour of the Toronto Music Garden’s 20th anniversary, and will feature 18 free concerts of classical, traditional and world music, including a concert on August 25 that will feature the Music Garden’s “theme song,” Bach’s Suite no. 1 in G Major for solo cello.

When: Thursdays and Sundays through September 15
Time: 4 pm
Where: 479 Queens Quay West
Price: Free to attend

Drag Brunch with Erin Brockobić and special guest

What: Every Sunday Erin Brockobić serves you more than you can handle! With a different guest each week, delicious all you can eat brunch buffet brunch, and a vibe you won’t get anywhere else, it’s truly a brunch like no other, complete with gluten-free and vegan options.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: First show 11:30 am, second show 12:15 pm
Where: Glad Day Bookshop, 499 Church Street
Admission: $29.90

Labour Day weekend Booze Cruise

What: Want to celebrate the long weekend, but tired of spending all night landlocked? Jump on the Empress of Canada and set sail for a night of wild adventure on Lake Ontario. Enjoy high-energy music, complimentary glow bands and glow sticks, and even a laser light show.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: 9:30 pm to 2 am
Where: The Empress of Canada, 11 Polson Street
Admission: Advance tickets $30, general $40

The Original Haunted Walk of Toronto

What: Ghosts, graveyards, hangings and haunts. Hear some of the most spine-tingling ghost stories from the earliest days of the city, including haunted theatres, unsolved mysteries and the terrifying encounters at Mackenzie House. You will never look at the city the same again. This tour departs from the courtyard in front of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

When: Sunday, September 1
Time: Tour starts at 8 pm and 8:30 pm
Where: 10 Front Street West
Admission: Adults $23.99, youth (up to 17) $19.99

Monday, September 2

Labour Day Parade

What: Keeping with tradition, the annual Labour Day Parade, celebrating the strength and solidarity of workers, is set to take place on Monday, September 2, 2019. This year, Labour Day will be celebrating 125 years! The parade travels along Queen Street from University Avenue, and eventually enters the CNE.

When: Monday, September 2
Time: 7 am to 4 pm
Where: Parade leaves Queen St. W. at University Ave. at precisely 10 am, heading west on Queen West to Dufferin, then turns south and enters the CNE grounds at Dufferin Gate

Breaking Benjamin concert

What: Rockers Breaking Benjamin are stopping in Toronto as part of their latest North American tour. Playing at the Budweiser Stage they’ve brought Dorothy, Diamante, and Three Days Grace along with them so get ready for an evening of great tunes and nostalgia all rolled into one.

Where: Budweiser Stage
Time: 5:30 pm
When: September 2
Admission: Tickets start at $39.75, available online

Late Mic T.O.

What: Late Mic Toronto, the only late-night talk show that is also an open mic. Submit monologue jokes to be read at the top of show and sign-up to perform stand-up (three minutes) or sit on the couch and have a chat/do a bit/play a character/do whatever (five minutes).

When: Monday, September 2
Time: Sign-up at 7:45 pm, show at 8 pm
Where: The Ossington, 61 Ossington Ave

One Love Festival TO – Legends Night

What: It’s the last day of a four-day event that showcases some of the biggest names in the Reggae, Dance Hall, and Soca music industry. Monday marks Legends Night where partygoers can celebrate the heritage of reggae music and dance to the classic hits of its culture’s roots.

When: Monday, September 2
Time: Event runs until 4 pm
Where: Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Road
Admission: Tickets start at $50, available online

Free Meditation in High Park with Buddhist Monk

What: All are welcome to join in for a free meditation session with Buddhist Monk Jason Simard, student of Tibetan Monk Lama Samten. There will also be a short introduction to meditation and a talk about human emotions and how to deal with them according to Tibetan Buddhist wisdom.

When: Monday, September 2
Time: 10 am to 11:30 am
Where: The Labyrinth, High Park
Admission: Free

Mariposa Cruises’ Labour Day Lunch Cruise

What: Torontonians can celebrate the last long weekend of the summer aboard Mariposa Cruises’ Labour Day Lunch Cruise. Guests will enjoy a leisurely cruise along Toronto’s harbour on Monday, September 2nd, with stunning views of the skyline and the best viewing spot in the city to watch the spectacular Air Show.

When: Monday, September 2
Time: Boarding, 12 pm to 12:30 pm; sailing 12:30 pm to 2:30
Where: Queen’s Quay Terminal, 207 Queen’s Quay West
Admission: Adults, $60.90; children, $45.90; children under three cruise free

Brewer’s Backyard – The Fruits of our Labour

What: Brewer’s Backyard is back to celebrate our final festival of the summer with the Fruits of Our Labour event on Monday, September 2. What better way to start September off right than with another BB beer festival? Check out an amazing line up of breweries that will be pouring including Big Rig, Black Oak, Collective Arts, Eastbound, Exchange Brewery, Indie Alehouse, Shacklands, and St. Mary Axe. You won’t want to miss this one.

When: Monday, September 2
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Where: Evergreen Brickworks
Admission: Free to attend