It’s official—outdoor movies will once again be screened across Toronto parks this summer, and they’re free to watch!
Despite last year’s uncertainty about their future due to rising costs and a decrease in funding, the cherished summer tradition will be coming back to celebrate its 15th anniversary with “When We Were Young”, a special edition of its beloved open-air cinema series.
From June 12 to August 24, 2025, film lovers can enjoy 20 nights of free outdoor screenings at three iconic Toronto parks: Fort York, Christie Pits, and Corktown Common.
The 2025 season revisits the festival’s inaugural theme — coming of age — with a curated programme that reflects on the universal experiences of growing up. “When We Were Young” features a dynamic mix of short films and full-length classics that explore childhood wonder, adolescent discovery, and the evolving journey of self-realization — no matter your age.
The festival kicks off on June 12 at Fort York with a six-night run, featuring classics like Baz Luhrmann’s visually stunning Romeo + Juliet, starring a young Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. The six-night opening weekend will also showcase standout selections like Lovers Rock (2020), I Saw the TV Glow (2023), and a 30th-anniversary screening of Clueless (1995).
Before each feature film, the show will also be preceded with a short by a Canadian filmmaker.
Like always, TOPS screenings will be free, open to the public, and fully accessible. All you need to do is bring a blanket, find your spot on the grass, and enjoy great cinema under the stars.
Food and drink vendors will also be available on-site, and Fort York will be the only venue licensed to see alcohol. All screenings include open captions, and some will offer audio descriptions for blind and low-vision attendees.
As the festival operates on limited resources and depends on grants, sponsorships, and donations, attendees are encouraged to pay-what-you-can to keep the organization afloat. You can make a charitable donation right here on their website.
In celebration of the 15th anniversary, anyone who donates $15 or more on the TOPS website will receive a special opportunity to vote for the festival’s closing night film in August at Christie Pits Park.
The full summer lineup of films will be revealed on May 15. We can’t wait to see what other movies will be screened this summer!