September is here, and what better way to kick off the month than with some Toronto events! With multiple film screenings, live performances, as well as exhibitions and festivals — experience both intimate, indoor activities and energetic, outdoor events this week. Our Best Bets picks include BuskerFest, the Canadian Opera Company Open House, Second City Spotlight, Toronto Dragon Festival, and more.
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Persépolis
Check out this special evening in honour of Marjane Satrapi — one of the most influential Iranian-French contemporary artists, filmmakers, and authors of the 21st century. Watch Satrapi’s Academy Award–nominated animated feature Persépolis alongside a lineup of animated shorts from Iranian and Francophone filmmakers. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to PEN Canada to support its work defending freedom of expression and advocating for writers, journalists, and artists at risk. More info.
When: September 2
Where: The Royal
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The Hunger Games: All Five Films
This September, all five films from the beloved Hunger Games franchise are returning to theatres in preparation for the release of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, premiering on November 20. Whether this will be your first time seeing these films on the big screen, or you’re ready to watch these stories unfold in a theatre again, this 5-day celebration is for everyone. Each screening will also share new sneak peeks into Sunrise on the Reaping. When securing your movie tickets, may the odds be ever in your favour. More info.
When: September 3-7
Where: Various Cineplex locations
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Spotlight at The Second City
Spotlight at The Second City returns this month to platform Toronto’s best in sketch comedy and support the next generation of comedians. This week, The Second City is spotlighting two sketch comedy ensembles: Brain Frogs and Midnight Snacks. Compared to Tim Robinson’s sketch comedy show I Think You Should Leave, Brain Frogs is an alternative and awkwardly hilarious Canadian sketch troupe. The Midnight Snacks are a Toronto-based sketch comedy ensemble fuelled by silliness and whimsy—this tight-knit powerhouse of performers has sharpened their talents across sketch, writing, stand-up, television, film, and improv stages. More info.
When: September 4-5
Where: The Second City
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Toronto Dragon Festival
This free Chinese cultural celebration will return to the heart of the city this weekend. Enjoy traditional lion and dragon dances, high-pole acrobatics, and folk dances, including the explosive Chaoshan Yingge Dance. At night, experience the magical Luminati Night Light Show and immersive Reflection Water Show, as well as other stunning cultural attractions. Throughout the day, browse through vendor booths offering irresistible Asian street food and cultural artisan crafts. More info.
When: September 4-6
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
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Toronto BuskerFest
The buskers are back! Returning for another year of jaw-dropping stunts and stunning sights, there is truly something fun and exciting for everyone at Toronto BuskerFest. Enjoy circus acts, daredevils, musicians, and so much more at one of North America’s largest gatherings of buskers from around the world, all in support of Epilepsy Toronto. One exciting ticketed event at the festival is Sucka’s Birthday Drag Brunch—win free tickets by entering our giveaway! Visitors can also look forward to a Dolly Parton sing-along, Flamenco Night, Bark in the Park TO, and more! More info.
When: September 4-7
Where: Woodbine Park
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Labour Day Weekend at Arcadia Earth
Bring your friends and family to enjoy Arcadia Earth’s beautifully immersive exhibitions this long weekend! This is the last opportunity for visitors to check out the Mushroom Music Room and Planetarium Experience before they close on September 7. The immersive Planetarium Experience add-on takes guests on a breathtaking journey through Earth’s forests, exploring the vital role they play in sustaining life on our planet. Plus, all weekend long, visitors can get creative with hands-on sustainable crafts, making for a fun and inspiring experience for the whole family. More info.
When: September 4-7
Where: Arcadia Earth
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Canadian Opera Company Open House
Step inside Toronto’s iconic opera venue and discover what happens behind the scenes at the Canadian Opera Company’s Open House. Explore the building at your own pace and get a glimpse into the many moving parts that bring a production to life. Enjoy live performances, interactive activities, self-guided discovery stations, and opportunities to meet and learn about the talented teams working behind the scenes — from artists and musicians to designers, technicians, and more. More info.
When: September 5
Where: Canadian Opera Company
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Pre-Existing Condition
Coal Mine Theatre’s next intimate and thought-provoking production is premiering this September. Pre-Existing Condition explores the aftermath of a life-altering harmful relationship and the challenges, shared community and everyday indignities of learning to move forward. Actor Marin Ireland’s playwriting debut has garnered international acclaim for its compassion, bluntness, and humanity. The Canadian premiere of Pre-Existing Condition will leave you with a potent reminder of the complexities of the human condition. More info.
When: September 6-27
Where: Coal Mine Theatre
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