The weather might be cooling off, but before the end of summer, there are a couple of outdoor festivals coming up. Whether you are into experimental music, want to attend an event with your furry friend, or are looking for the best place to purchase your back-to-school supplies, there is something for everyone. Before making plans for your Labour Day weekend, here are a few outdoor gatherings to check out.
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2025 Toronto Dragon Festival
Mythical encounters and futuristic thrills are in store for the return of the Toronto Dragon Festival, packed with vibrant acts and live-action fantasy. Expect high-pole lion and dragon dances, tasty Asian street food, a magical Luminati Light Show, and a high-fashion runway show (featuring traditional and ethnic designs made in Canada). Participate in interactive activities on site and experience global communities through Indigenous, Asian, and Caribbean-led performances. More info.
When: Aug. 29-31
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
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Intersection Music & Arts Festival
This multi-day event celebrates musical experimentation and art-making through installations, improv, performances, and more. Taking music out of the concert hall and onto the streets of Toronto, Intersection Music & Arts Festival provides the opportunity for emerging creatives from different communities to come together and collaborate. On Saturday, the festival will take over Sankofa Square for a free, day-long music marathon that you won’t want to miss. More info.
When: Aug. 29-31
Where: Multiple Venues
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Nostalgic Market
It’s back-to-school season, meaning that there is no better time to buy new school supplies and shop for eye-catching clothing items to wear on your first day of classes. This three-day thrifting event offers hand-made jewelry, beauty products, and vintage looks that will come in handy when the semester begins. With a lively DJ set to set the mood and free swag bags for the first 10 people to arrive at the market, this shopping experience will take you back to that nostalgic feeling of getting school ready after your summer break. More info.
When: Aug. 29-31
Where: Scarborough Town Centre
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Bark in the Park TO
Who said that pets can’t have their fair share of fun at an event catered to them? Dog lovers and furry friends will be esteemed guests at this celebration, which will feature vendors selling unique toys and gourmet pet snacks. Pamper your furry best friend, participate in obstacle courses and take professional photos together, as well as join the pet-costume contest. More info.
When: Aug. 29-Sept. 1
Where: Woodbine Park
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Toronto International BuskerFest
One of North America’s largest busker gatherings is happening this weekend, featuring circus artistry, acrobatics, and lots of adrenaline. In addition to enjoying live music, comedic acts, and action-packed fun, the festival is also dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Epilepsy Toronto. Admission is by donation, so this is a chance to join in and support a great cause. For those planning on bringing children along, keep in mind that every day at noon there’s special programming available for the entire family. More info.
When: Aug. 29-Sept. 1
Where: Woodbine Park
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Flavours by Fire: Food
Grill lovers and foodies won’t want to pass on the chance to try Brazilian churrasco or Jamaican jerk at Flavours by Fire. This event dedicated to flame-kissed dishes will satiate your meat and freshly-baked pizza cravings, by presenting a variety of vendors bringing their multi-cultural dishes to event attendees. On top of eating delicious food options, there will also be live entertainment, interactive cooking demos, a marketplace, and spicy/smoky challenges. More info.
When: Aug. 29-Sept. 1
Where: Harbourfront Centre
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Summer Send-Off
Spend the Labour Day weekend with crafts and adventures at Arcadia Earth, a place filled with sensorial experiences and technological installations that inspire environmental change. In addition to making DIY bookmarks and visiting the main exhibit, attendees can also delight themselves with cotton candy and the Planetarium Experience, a 360° cinematic journey that explores the conservation and restoration of freshwater sources. More info.
When: Aug. 30-Sept. 1
Where: Arcadia Earth
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