Hello, all art fanatics. If you’re a frontline worker, then the AGO, aka Art Gallery of Ontario, has a special treat in store for you. The museum is giving all of the above individuals a free one-year pass. 

Workers have until August 16th to sign up and claim the pass which lets them book time slots for whenever they choose for the entire year.

“COVID-19 has impacted all of us, but front-line workers have kept our community moving while most of us remained at home. It is with deep gratitude that we extend this invitation to front-line workers. Thank you,” Stephan Jost, Michael and Sonja Koerner Director and CEO of the AGO, said in a release.

Of course, the AGO will need proof to ensure credibility, so make sure you bring your proof of employment with you when you visit.

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The AGO says this is a way to thank these workers for all of the hard work and service that has been provided during the pandemic.

The gallery reopened its doors on July 2nd to AGO members and annual pass holders and is set to open to the public on July 23rd.

the AGO is asking all visitors to please wear a mask during their visit and to abide by social distancing protocols.

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Ahh summertime, you’re finally here! But with the fun in the sun also comes the “tap, tap, tap” of my credit card as I schedule in as many fun activities as possible. What’s a girl to do now that summer is here in full force and we’re ready to have some fun on the cheapLuckily, if you live in Toronto, there are a ton of free summer activities around every corner.

Here is a list of 12 fun places you can check out without spending a dime this summer!

AGO Wednesdays

The AGO has made big waves with it’s new pricing for 2019-2020. If you’re under 25, then the AGO is free for you anytime you’d like! But if you’re a bit older than that, don’t fret because you can still experience all the wonders of the AGO, for free, on Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. If you’re gallery obsessed, you can get yourself a yearly pass for $35 and go as many times as you’d like!

Scarborough Bluffs

free things toronto summer

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If you’re looking for a little paradise within the city, Scarborough Bluffs is a great place to visit. The views certainly look like you’re much farther away than similar Scarborough.

Riverdale Park Farm

Riverdale Farm is a great place to visit for kids and adults alike. It’s a beautiful walk with tons of animals, and great photo opportunities. Visit for free from 9 to 5 p.m. every day of the year!

Check Out Graffiti Alley

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@_kayflo

If you’re looking for a free way to pass the time after spending all your money shopping on Queen West, Graffiti Alley is the perfect place to browse and take photos. 

Walk Evergreen Brick Works

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@cmonee504

I love that Evergreen Brick Works is a green oasis right in the city, and it’s free! With so much to see and do, it’s hard to believe they don’t make us pay to explore. Consider biking, walking, or taking a shuttle next time you visit and save on parking! If you don’t have a car you can take the free shuttle to Evergreen Brick Works from Broadview Station.

Take A Shuttle To Rouge National Urban Park

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@jane_philpott

How beautiful is Rouge National Urban Park? It’s hard to believe it’s just outside of the city and entry is free! You can even take a free shuttle bus from downtown Toronto to get there. How amazing is that? I can’t wait to visit this summer.

Go On A Free Walking Tour

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@tourguys

I’m a firm believer that walking is the best way to get to know any city. There is just so much you can miss by taking a car, bike, or transit. Plus, exploring Toronto like you are a tourist is actually surprisingly fun. You can avoid the traps, and learn more about your city! The Tour Guys do free walking tours on a bunch of different routes. 

Aga Khan Free Wednesdays

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@chewables

The AGO isn’t the only museum free on Wednesdays! If you’re looking for something new to do, head on over to the Aga Kahn Museum between 4 to 8 p.m. for free entry. Plus, take some stunning photos outside of the museum and admire it’s beautiful architecture. 

Waterfront Night Market

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@lyanree

The Waterfront Night Market is full of amazing eats, and fun activities. There is free admission to the Pan Asian food festival, so you can spend even more on the tasty treats from over 150 vendors. The Waterfront Night Market is at Ontario Place from August 9-11. 

Hit Up A Free Event At Yonge-Dundas Square 

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@antonrah43

Yonge-Dundas Square has a ton of great events lined up for the summer, and most of them are free. Whether it’s a concert, festival, or community yoga, there’s lots to see and do. Check out the events calendar to see what fun and exciting shows or events are coming up next. 

Maple Leafs Baseball Game At Christie Pits

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@erixhartman

Not down to spend money on the Jays this year? Well you’re in luck. Toronto’s other baseball team is offering free admission to home games for the year. See the team’s schedule and learn more on their website. 

Visit A Farmer’s Market

free things toronto summer

Instagram/@junctionmarket

You know you’re an adult when Saturday mornings start to look less like a Gatorade in one hand, and a coffee in another, and more like two bags full of farmer’s fresh groceries. Here’s our guide to Farmer’s Markets in Toronto.

Featured Image: StyleDemocracy

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The AGO To Offer Free Admission To Anyone Under 25

If you’re looking to get cultured this summer, the time is now.

The AGO has just announced that it’s offering free passes to anyone under the age of 25.

Starting on May 25, head to the AGO for free entry if you’re 25 of under but if you’re not, the museum is also testing out a plan to offer a $35 annual pass with the hope that museum goers will make visiting more of a habit.

 

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To put it in perspective, a one-time visit to the museum is $19.50 and that doesn’t include special exhibitions. If you decide to go with the annual pass, you also get access to the museum’s special exhibitions.

Gallery Director and CEO Stephen Jost says that he hopes this will encourage more people to buy the pass instead of single tickets. These single-ticket admissions are going to increase to $25 from $20 and will include special exhibitions.

 

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Jost also says that selling more individual passes will allow the gallery to learn more about visitors so it can tailor marketing and promotional material to what they’re interested in.

When someone visits the museum and buys a ticket, the museum doesn’t get to know them and they’re just anonymous. But if you have a pass and the museum notices you favour certain exhibitions for example, the museum will let you know about future events that may interest you.

In addition, the AGO also announced a new all-day party called AGO All Hours. This party set to take place three times a year. The event will change through the day and will attract everyone from families and art lovers, to late-night party folks.

Featured Image: Instagram/@gracelightningx

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