30+ amazing things to do this August in Toronto

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival (formerly known as Caribana) is one of the biggest parties of the summer, where hundreds of thousands of people will come together in celebration of the city’s Afro-Caribbean community. The multi-day festival will feature vibrant parades with gorgeously elaborate carnival outfits, dancing, music, delicious West Indian cuisine, and the ultimate crowning of the Carnival King and Queen.

It’s hard to believe, but it’s almost already time for the Canadian National Exhibition – which always signifies the end of summer in Toronto! The Ex (as locals call it) is Canada’s biggest annual fair. It’s also where you can try some of the most elaborate, wacky foods you could think of, catch live music performances, see a variety of exhibitions, play games at the midway, and so much more.

Before the fall weather rolls around, enjoy an enchanting Candlelight concert this August under the stars! Michael Jackson fans, don’t miss an enchanting open-air tribute at Hart House this August, where a talented string quartet covers the icon’s top hits ranging from Billie Jean to Thriller.

Toronto Taco Fest is back this August, featuring over 200 types of tacos to try, salsa dancing, mariachi music, and so much more. After eating your weight in tacos, make sure to save room for freshly-made guacamole, Mexican street corn, and a cocktail or beverage made with one of the event’s 32 types of tequila. You’ll also be able to vote on Toronto’s “Best Taco”.

This August, head to the Art of the Brick before it leaves for good. Explore over 130 large-scale LEGO sculptures by Nathan Sawaya, showcasing everything from human figures and everyday objects to LEGO recreations of famous artworks like Starry Night and Mona Lisa.

The first weekend of August will bring one of the biggest EDM events in the country to Toronto’s Downsview Park in the form of Veld Music Festival. Returning for its 12th year, Veld spans over three days featuring 50+ EDM, dance, and hip-hop artists. This year’s headliners include FISHER, KX5 (deadmau5 & Kaskade), Above & Beyond, Armin van Buuren, and Illenium.

Some of the best female tennis players in the world are coming to Toronto for the National Bank Open this August, including wildcard entries like Venus Williams and Bianca Andreescu. From watching live matches to off-court live entertainment, there’s so much to experience.

Rosé Disco is returning to Toronto’s Fort York this August, transforming the historic grounds into a pink-and-white summer party filled with music, wine, and food. The boutique festival will feature performances from artists like Felix Cartel, Mr. Belt & Wezol, Hatiras, Miz Megs, and Robert Hughes, alongside tastings of more than 30 rosé wines from Ontario and around the world.

Once a month throughout the summer, the Toronto Flower Market is popping up at the corner of Queen and Shaw for their seasonal market. With tons of vendors selling all kinds of flowers from local Ontario farms, you can also find gifts, crafts, plant accessories, and so much more. This month’s event occurs on August 15.

Dreaming of a beach escape without boarding a plane? Just a short drive from Toronto, you’ll find some of Ontario’s most charming beach towns, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. From the tropical vibes of Port Dover with its palm-lined shore, to the party scene in Grand Bend and the serene sunsets of Southampton, there’s a destination for every beachgoer.

Thrill-seekers, it’s the perfect time to visit one of the many exciting theme parks near Toronto, where you can ride giant rollercoasters or looping water slides at a water park. You can even experience Christmas in July at Santa’s Village in Muskoka! Check out our round-up of some of the best theme parks just a short drive away from Toronto.

Nothing screams summer in Toronto like cheering on the Blue Jays when the roof of the Rogers Centre is open, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so this August! Don’t forget to bring your mitt in the event of a home run ball coming your way! Check their website for the full schedule of upcoming games.

Toronto’s iconic waterfront music venue the RBC Amphitheatre is a quintessential summer destination for locals and visitors alike. This August, some must-see artists coming to play at the venue include Ne-Yo and Akon, Hilary Duff, and Kehlani. See their website here for their full line-up of shows this month!

Summer wouldn’t be complete without at least one day trip to the Toronto Islands, which is home to a number of restaurants, walking and biking paths, a family-friendly theme park, and some of the best beaches in the city. Hop on a ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, or grab a water taxi to take you across the harbour.

Promise Cherry Beach is bringing back its iconic weekly electronic music parties for another summer season, transforming the waterfront into a Sunday dance destination from June 21 until Labour Day. Running every Sunday and select holiday Mondays from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., the all-ages series will feature local and international DJs.

The Country Club festival makes its Toronto debut at Fort York on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 2 to 8 p.m., offering a rodeo-meets-rave experience blending country and electronic music. The one-afternoon event includes mechanical bull rides, line dancing, a food market, beer garden, 13 signature tequila cocktails, costume contests, and fundraising for youth mental health.

Ontario’s lavender fields are currently in full bloom, and tend to remain until around mid-August. There are a number of farms to visit a short drive from Toronto, many of them hosting events like picnics, yoga in the fields, or even a luxurious high tea.

Toronto’s beloved outdoor electronic summer music festival, Electric Island, is back for its 14th year, lighting up Toronto this August. Visit their website here to see the schedule of events and secure your tickets.

FAN EXPO Canada returns to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from August 27 – 30, 2025, bringing four days of non-stop pop culture excitement for fans of all ages. Meet your favourite celebrities, snap selfies with costumed characters, and dive into panels on top movies and shows.

Sunflowers in the province have already begun to bloom, and there’s a number of farms you can visit a short drive away for an amazing flower-filled experience! Check out the Davis Family Farm located in Caledon, which has a lovely sunflower festival running from July 25 through August 9. Bragg Farms in Bowmanville also has a gorgeous field of sunflowers to explore, with a giant sunflower-shaped maze cut out of walking paths among the flowers.

That Toronto August humidity is no joke, and if you’re looking for somewhere to cool off, the city has some great beaches for a swim in the lake! From taking a dip at Cherry Beach with their blue flag rating to baring it all at Hanlan’s Point, here are some of the best beaches to check out this month.

The Malibu Barbie Cafe is a fully immersive, 1970s-inspired beachside pop-up featuring a themed menu by Chef Becky Brown, a retro roller rink, retail shop, and special programming, opening in Toronto this August. The limited-time installation launches at 70 The Esplanade on August 13, 2026, with pricing and reservations to be announced.

The Toronto Outdoor Picture Show is screening movies all August long at parks throughout Toronto, including at Corktown Common and Christie Pits. Pack a blanket and picnic and watch a flick under the stars, like Titanic and The Princess Bride Visit their website for the full lineup of screenings!

The Bentway is reopening its 220‑metre figure‑eight Skate Trail and a slate of late‑summer programs, running from August 7 through September 27, 2026, with opening-night Roller Skate Party, weekly beginner lessons, family Dino Run dates, and creative Art Socials.

Toronto’s Woodbine Park will be taken over by tons of food trucks for the Toronto Food Truck Festival, with options ranging from savoury to sweet. There’s also going to be free children’s games to keep the little ones entertained, local music performances, and even live food competitions to watch. Admission is free, so just arrive hungry and ready to eat!

Take a dip among Toronto’s skyscrapers at one of the city’s rooftop pools this August! From Hotel X’s year-round heated pool overlooking Lake Ontario to Lavelle’s epic summer pool parties, we’ve rounded up some of the best rooftop pools in the city here.

Wavelength Summer Thing is returning to Toronto’s waterfront this August, bringing a free, all-ages music festival to Trillium Park. The open-air celebration will feature two outdoor stages showcasing everything from alternative R&B and indie-soul to Afro-Brazilian percussion and folk. Guests can also explore immersive art installations, shop at an indie maker market, enjoy local food and craft drinks, and gather around a campfire as the sun sets over the city skyline.

Union Summer returns to the plaza outside Union Station from June 8 to August 9, 2026, offering a free open-air program of local food vendors, more than 120 live performances, and a dedicated stage and bar area.

Toronto’s largest street festival, Taste of the Danforth, is returning after a two-year hiatus with a three-day celebration from August 7–9, 2026. The pedestrianized 1.6 km stretch of Danforth Avenue will offer free admission, Greek food, live performances and family-friendly activities backed by a $400,000 joint government investment.

Celebrate Caribbean culinary heritage at this massive food and music festival in Etobicoke. Expect fiery jerk spice competitions, international reggae and dancehall headliners, and endless street food options.

Enjoy a free concert at Harbourfront Centre’s Summer Music in the Garden, which is back at the Toronto Music Garden with 20 free, outdoor performances running June 21 through August 27, 2026. Shows take place Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m.

Combining Pan-Asian street food culture with an outdoor craft beer garden, this 19+ Waterfront Night Market along the lakefront features illumination installations and live DJ sets.

Harbourfront Centre is launching Concerts by the Lake, a brand-new outdoor concert series that will bring acclaimed artists and themed events to Toronto’s waterfront all summer long. The inaugural lineup includes performances by Maribou State, RuPaul, Machel Montano, and more, alongside block parties and Pride celebrations.