Whether you’re ready for it or not, the unofficial last weekend of summer is upon us.
If there was ever a time to take advantage of Toronto’s events, festivals, and concerts in all of their easy, breezy, summertime glory, it’s this coming long weekend. After all, things get real pretty quickly once the first Tuesday after Labour Day hits (AKA the real start of the new year; let's be honest).
If you’re in need of a little inspiration this Labour Day weekend, we’ve got you covered. You can thank us later for the memories.
Toronto International BuskerFest
Immerse yourself inside a world of uncommon talents during this weekend’s entertainment-packed Buskerfest. Here, you’ll find all the magicians, sword-swallowers, fire jugglers, clowns, acrobats, and daredevils you didn’t know you were missing in your life -- all in support of Epilepsy Toronto. September 2 to 5 at Woodbine Park, 1590 Lake Shore Blvd E.
Canadian International Air Show
The Canadian International Air Show will give spectators a sky-high (and loud: be warned) performance this weekend, as military, government, and civilian aircraft do coordinated twists, turns, and acrobatics in the air over Lake Ontario. September 3 to 5 at Princes’ Boulevard.
Image: Canadian International Air Show
NY State of Mind Tour with Nas and Wu-Tang Clan
Live Nation and has brought one amazing concert after another to Budweiser Stage this season -- from Halsey to Backstreet Boys and Alanis Morissette. Now, Nas and Wu-Tang Clan will grace the stage of the beloved outdoor venue for what will undoubtedly be a high-energy performance. September 4 at Budweiser Stage, 909 Lake Shore Blvd W.
My Chemical Romance
If rock music is more your thing, beloved American band of decades past (and today, clearly) My Chemical Romance hits Scotiabank Arena on September 5. The band's global reunion tour features all the throwbacks that make for a nostalgia-packed performance. September 5, at Scotiabank Arena, 40 Bay St.
Symphony in the Gardens. Image: Casa Loma
Symphony in the Gardens
Check out the last performance of the season for the dreamy and magical Symphony in the Gardens at Casa Loma. Guests are invited to wine and dine as they enjoy the sounds of the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra under the stars and within the gardens of the famed castle. September 5 at Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace.
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
After a three-year hiatus, the Canadian National Exhibition is back to bring a stimulation-filled dose of nostalgia with its carnival rides, games, unique food offerings (think: colour-changing soda, two-foot tacos, and mustard-flavoured ice cream), shopping, and innovative ideas -- like this green shipping container home. Now through September 5, 210 Princes' Blvd.
Image: Mirvish
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Expand your imagination and believe in magic again at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The celebrated Mirvish production treats guests to a memorable show that features a gripping storyline and is jam-packed with special effects (and no, you don’t need to know the films to see the production; there’s a backgrounder on the website). September 1 to 4 (and beyond) at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre, 244 Victoria St.
Toronto Dragon Festival
The Toronto Dragon Festival is back to take over Nathan Philip’s Square with a vibrant showcase of Chinese and Asian culture. Here, you’ll find a variety of traditional music, Chinese folk dance, Tai Chi, demonstrations from Kung Fu masters, calligraphy, a fashion show, and a reflection water show. September 2 to 4 at Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. West.
Smorgasburg Toronto
Eat and drink your heart out at the Smorasberg Toronto event this Saturday. The largest open-air food market in America, the brand launched in Toronto this year to bring an assortment of exciting vendors to the city's waterfront in what the New York Times has called "The Woodstock of Eating" Running until Saturday, September 10. Saturday, September 5, 7, 10, Queen's Quay E.
Dog-Only Swim
Let your dog join in on soaking up the last of summer with a dip in one of the City's public swimming pools. Yes, you read that correctly. Dogs can enjoy a free swim on the last official day of outdoor pool season; Sunday, September 4 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at select pool locations. One adult (18+) can bring a maximum of two dogs. Sunday, September 4; see website for locations.
Find a complete list of what’s open and closed this Labour Day here.