Free is always fun! Especially in Toronto. So we've put together a list of 10 free things you could do in the city this weekend.
Of course, Pride is the main star of this weekend's events and festivals, but there's still plenty of free events to take in if you're looking for a change of pace.
And to make sure you get from free point-A to free point-B, you should also check out our list of road closures this weekend. That's right here.
1. TD Toronto Jazz Festival
Where: YorkvilleWhen: Friday to Sunday
One of the premier jazz festivals in North America, the TD Toronto Jazz Festival celebrates its opening weekend when it runs from Friday to Sunday.
With more than 1,500 musicians performing, the Festival has something for every music lover. From emerging artists to established musicians, jazz legends to undiscovered gems, the TD Toronto Jazz Festival showcases the very best in jazz this summer.
2. TD IRIE Music Festival
Where: Mississauga Celebration SquareWhen: Friday to Sunday
TD IRIE Music Festival is a culturally diverse event that will feature international and Canadian artists in various artistic disciplines: music, dance, spoken word, visual arts and culinary arts. A diverse array of Caribbean and international tropical foods, drinks and unique gift ideas complete this event. Free for the whole family!
(Photo courtesy of The Royal Conservatory)
3. Wide Open House
Where: The Royal ConservatoryWhen: Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Adults will enjoy free trial lessons and classes, instrument demos, and music appreciation lectures culminating in a lecture performance on Beethoven's Concertos. Don't miss free showcase concerts at Koerner Hall. Plus a courtyard party that features a cappella performances by Cadence and RCS's Samba troupe.
4. Le Grand Continental
Where: Nathan Phillips SquareWhen: Friday to Sunday
Hundred of dance enthusiasts unite for this joyous, outdoor extravaganza choreographed by Montreal's Sylvain Emard. Celebrated for the elegance and finesse of his choreography, Sylvain Emard debuted the concert in his hometown in 2009 and it has since travelled around the world.
(Photo courtesy of Toronto Walk, Run, or Ride For Scleroderma)
5. Toronto Walk, Run, or Ride For Scleroderma
Where: Budapest ParkWhen: Saturday at 10:00 a.m.
Scleroderma is a chronic, often progressive autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. The public awareness event is hoping to raise funds for awareness, education, and research. Although free, donations are of course appreciated.
6. National Aboriginal Day and The Indigenous Arts Festival
Where: Fort York Historic SiteWhen: Thursday to Sunday
The Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York celebrates traditional and contemporary music, dance, theatre, storytelling, literature, crafts, and food created by Indigenous artists. The four-day festival will include more than 30 performances by Indigenous artists from across Canada.
(Photo courtesy of Redpath Waterfront Festival)
7. Redpath Waterfront Festival
Where: Spadina BayWhen: Friday to Sunday
Presented by Billy Bishops Airport, the festival known for the big yellow duck is back on the Toronto waterfront with kid-friendly activities, endless entertainment and classic summer eats.
8. Global Village Festival
Where: Mel Lastman SquareWhen: Saturday and Sunday
An annual celebration, the Global Village Festival 2018 promotes cultural diversity in one of the most multicultural cities in the world. The event is free to attend and is open to the public. You'll get live, multicultural performances from musicians, singers, and dancers.
9. Port Union Waterfront Festival
Where: Port Union Village CommonWhen: Saturday
Port Union Summer Festival events include free carnival rides, mini-motorcycles, a five-kilometre walk and run, firefighter's bouncer and games, entertainment with local bands, and much more.
10. The Junction Summer Solstice Festival
Where: The Junction at Dundas St. W. and Keele St.When: Saturday
The Junction's Summer Solstice Festival has been a long-standing tradition on the West side, offering crowds of all ages a full day of music, art, outdoor patios, leisurely shopping, and entertaining programs.
