The first weekend of June is finally here and that means summer activities are officially in full swing. Those who are hanging out in the city can expect to find a ton of outdoor markets, food festivals, and wellness activities — all for free!
READ: These Are All The Toronto Food Festivals Happening In June 2019
If you have no plans so far, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of fun things to do this weekend in Toronto.
1. Yoga in Trillium Park
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W.When: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Ontario Place has officially kicked off its summer programming, which means there’ll be free one-hour yoga classes in Trillium Park every weekend. This Hatha Vinyasa class will help connect you to your body and your breath with mindful movements. All levels are welcome.
2. The Annex Spring Craft Market
Where: Tranzac Club — 292 Brunswick Ave.When: Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Celebrate local artists and crafters at this free pop-up market in the Annex. The first 100 visitors will receive unique swag bags, which include raffle tickets to win one of three ruby bracelets worth $250 each! The event is in support of programs at CAMH and Workman Arts, so be sure to bring cash to shop the local goods.
3. Union Summer
Where: Union StationWhen: Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m to 6 p.m.
Union Summer is back to delight Toronto foodies! The festival brings together the city’s top chefs and vendors to celebrate the best food and drink in the city. But if you can’t make it this weekend, don’t worry. The event is on seven days a week until August. While the event is free to attend, you might want to bring cash if you plan to sample some of the goods.
4. Reading Buddies For Families
Where: Toronto Humane Society — 11 River St.When: Saturday from 9:20 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Encourage your child’s love of books and furry friends at this adorable event hosted by the Toronto Humane Society. The program pairs kids with shelter animals who will listen to them practice their reading skills. Books will be available at the shelter, or kids can bring their own. Register here for this free event.
5. Etsy Summer Market
Where: The Great Hall — 1087 Queen St. W.When: Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Who can resist an Etsy market? Meet your favourite makers and support their work at this one-day event in Queen West. The event brings together 50 vendors selling unique products, including plant-based body care, vintage art, and gemstone jewelry. Admission is free, and the first 50 guests will receive a complimentary swag bag.
6. Riverside Eats & Beats Streetfest
Where: Alongside Riverdale ArtWalk (Jimmie Simpson Park — 872 Queen St. E.)When: Saturday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. (except Broadview Ave. until 9 p.m.)
This neighbourhood streetfest spans 10 blocks along Queen St. E. and is full of family fun. Face painting and a jumping castle will keep the kids busy, while adults enjoy some live entertainment, food specials, sidewalk sales, and workshops. There’s definitely something for everyone here.
7. Cactus & Succulent Club Show & Sale
Where: Allan Garden Children’s Conservatory — 19 Horticultural Ave.When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admire the beautiful quirkiness of cacti and succulents at this annual show and sale. Those with a green thumb can even purchase some of their own to take home. There will also be a raffle draw each day for a bundle of three plants. Tickets for the raffle are just $2 each.
8. Kensington Flea Market
Where: Kensington Market — 214 Augusta Ave.When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Embrace the unique, eclectic vibes of the neighbourhood at this flea market, which features independent artisans and vendors across the city and beyond. They’ll be showcasing their work, which includes handcrafted items, artisanal goods, jewelry and more. The flea market will be on every Saturday until September 7.
9. Community Meditation
Where: The Attic, Lululemon — 318 Queen St. W.When: Sunday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Clear your mind at this community meditation class led by Cassidy from Just Be Meditation. The class will explore different types of meditation and will include discussion about how to incorporate mindfulness into your life.
10. Citizens Collective Spring Market
Where: 146 Ossington Ave.When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you’re looking for local, handmade goods in Toronto, you’re in luck. There’s no shortage of outdoor markets offering just that. At the Citizens Collective Spring Market, more than 55 creators will feature their work. That includes everything from clothing to home decor to leather goods!
BONUS: Toronto Raptors Tailgate Party
Where: Maple Leaf Square 15 York St.When: Sunday at 8 p.m.
You didn’t think we’d leave this off the list, did you? Show your Raptors pride in Jurassic Park at Game 2 of the NBA Finals. The game starts at 8 p.m., but you’ll want to head to the park much earlier to avoid lineups. But if you’re not one for crowds, you can always check out these Toronto bars or other places in the GTA for free playoff viewings.
