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 cheap? Luckily, if you live in Toronto, there are a ton of free summer activities around every corner.
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 sun is finally out (ish) and that means it
Family Day is on Monday, February 18th this year and if you’re looking for fun (and free) events for the entire family, we have got you covered! There is lots going on across the city, so there is no shortage of fun activities for you to take part in.
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Rink Social is transforming community spaces into hubs of free activity all over the city this winter. The Family Day weekend event will take place at the Regent Park Athletic Grounds Rink and will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Saturday to Monday. Here you can take part in skating, crafts, and warm up by the fire. Food and drink vendors will be on site as well! If you and your family are looking for a way to get out of the house this Family Day, this is a fun event worth checking out.
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If you’re looking for something fun and educational to do this Family Day weekend, then this is the event for you! The event takes place on Saturday, February 16th at 10 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m. Here you can spend two hours exploring the historical legislative building and learning all about how parliament works. There will be crafts as well as a scavenger hunt to keep things interesting and educational. This event is free, but registration is required, so make sure you sign up in advance.
There will be tons of fun things to do at the Fort York National Historic Site to celebrate Family Day. Drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday, February 18 for face painting, dress up, crafts, performances, a selfie-booth, hot chocolate, and more! You can also tour the historic kitchen and sample some of the delicious baked goods.
Planet Fitness
If you and your family are looking up a way to get active indoors, work up a sweat at Planet Fitness! The gym is inviting families age 13+ into gyms across Canada to workout for free on February 18. In addition, those looking to become members can enroll for just $0.25, lowered from $10. It’s a wonderful way to exercise some self-care and spend time with your loved ones.
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Come on out from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to enjoy the fun activities Evergreen Brick Works has planned for Family Day. Here you can skate, adults can sip local beers from Brewer’s Backyard, and the kids can explore the Children’s Garden activities. There is a nice mix of indoor and outdoor activities, and it’s guaranteed to be fun for the whole family
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If you haven’t seen the Toronto Light Festival in the Distillery District yet, Family Day is the perfect time to go! The festival is one of the largest outdoor galleries in North America. It is super picturesque and there are tons of interactive exhibits that will get the kids involved. It’s a great excuse to get outside and see the beauty winter has to offer!
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After you check out Family Day at Fort York, mosey on over to The Bentway for a little outdoor fun. The rink is open extended hours on Monday, February 18 and there will be free skating for all! Just remember to bring your own skates, or $5 to rent a pair.
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There are few things as appealing and stunning as Europe in the summertime. Exotic places, foreign languages; there’s just something so dreamy about spending a summer travelling through Europe. But not all of us can afford a plane ticket to the other side of the world for summer vacation.
Fortunately there are multiple places right here in Toronto that give off major European vibes. With so many European neighbourhoods throughout the city, it’s no surprise that Toronto has some of the best European cuisines around — next to the real thing that is. But it doesn’t just stop at the restaurants; from bars to coffee shops to parks, there are hidden European-esque gems throughout the city that are sure to transport you somewhere else for the day.
Here are 15 places to go in Toronto if you want to feel like you’re in Europe – no plane ticket necessary.
550 Wellington St. W
Colette Grand Cafe (Image: Instagram/@ColetteToronto)
This Parisian-style café is only a few years old but it has since grown into a King West area staple. Its a-la-carte and lavish Sunday buffet brunch, elegant atmosphere and pastel accents make this spot one of the prettiest French restaurants in the city.
550 Bayview Ave.
Evergreen Brick Works (Image: Instagram/@barbifromtheblock)
Toronto’s Evergreen Brick Works can work for nearly any European country. Between the wildlife, sporadic graffiti and wide open spaces, this spot if the perfect place to escape Toronto and pretend to be anywhere in Europe for the day.
1156 Queen St. E
Tango Coffee Palace (Image: Instagram/@lauratuckerslife)
Between the exposed brick walls and the plush, velvety red chairs, Tango Palace has taken a page right out of Belgium’s playbook. If the fresh brewed coffee isn’t enough to make you want to lounge under its coppery detailed ceiling, the delicious baked goods will.
454 Parliament St.
House on Parliament (Image: Instagram/@smiley_princess)
If London is calling but your bank account doesn’t quite seem to be getting the memo, head over to The House on Parliament for some traditional British pub fare and savoury European beers.
38 Wellington St. E
Uncle Tony’s (Image: Instagram/@lynofay)
Everyone loves great Italian food and Uncle Tony’s does just that. This old-fashioned Italian restaurant has been serving up massive pizza pies for years, and although its decor may seem a bit cheesey (pun intended), the classic Italian touches does the country justice.
607 College St.
Dinner at the Walton (Image: Instagram/@ariadnamorogan)
The Walton is one spot where the decor has a very crisp Euro-edge to it. The dark mahogany finishes, leather booths and crystal glasses are like something you’d see at a cocktail bar in Vienna.
158 Cumberland St
Bar Reyna (Image: Instagram/@impeccablymessy)
Bar Reyna is one of the dreamiest restaurants in the city with its jewel-toned and gold decor. This spot will make you feel like you’re tucked away in a small bistro on the Mediterranean coast rather than somewhere in Yorkville. Oh, and don’t forget to check out their secret garden; an all season patio hidden in the back with twinkling lights and paper lanterns hanging above.
479 Queen’s Quay
Music Garden (Image: Instagram/@harbourfrontcentre)
Toronto’s very own waterfront garden is basically a mini Denmark tucked within the city. With all the foliage and the breathtaking views, it’s easy to feel like the Toronto Music Garden can double as European landscape.
44 Wellington St. E
Pravda Vodka Bar (Image: Instagram/@angelos_michael)
Pravda Vodka Bar is everything one would expect from a Soviet-themed bar; deep red upholstery, high ceilings, flashy gold accents and of course a large selection of international vodkas.
140 Yonge St.
Dineen (Image: Instagram/@carmellac)
There’s just something about Dineen Coffee Company that resembles a late 1950s style Prague café. Maybe it’s the intricate tiled flooring or the large glass chandeliers, but regardless of what it may be, Dineen makes us feel like we’re in Europe with every sip of our latte.
35 Tank House Ln.
Cluny Bistro (Image: Instagram/@pourquoipasmary)
Cluny Bistro is filled to the brim with classic European flare. With its marble bar, coffered ceiling and eclectic tiled flooring, this place will make you feel like you’re sitting in a chic café in France.
1087 Queen St. W
Otto’s Bierhalle (Image: Instagram/@ottosbierhalle)
If you love all things German, this beer hall is for you. Who needs Berlin when you can have the traditional, sweet food and a variety of tap beers at Otto’s right here in Toronto?
5 St. Joseph St.
Wickson Social (Image: Instagram/@rycebran)
With its conventional architecture next to its eccentric modern art, The Wickson Social takes you out of Toronto and drops you right into Amsterdam. The quirky decor and quality brews will have you saying “goede dag” in no time.
131 Bloor St. W
La Societé(Image: Instagram/@lasocieteTO)
With its amazing stain-glass ceiling and impeccable French cuisine, having a meal at La Societé could arguably change your life. If not, at least you got to spend an hour or two pretending to be Parisian.
55 Mill St.
Distillery District (Image: Instagram/@bararie1127)
Toronto’s historic Distillery District is namesake in its own right but if one didn’t know any better, the cobblestone streets lined with little boutiques and specialty shops could easily be mistaken for a side street somewhere in Ireland or the Netherlands.
Featured Image: The Distillery District via Instagram/@solotu.ca
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Spring finally seems to be right around the corner and with the warmer weather comes an itch. An itch to get out and have fun. Although, when you live in a city as expensive as Toronto, more often times than not your spending allowance seems to remain in a deep freeze – nothing green and growing here, folks. But lucky for you, the city has a ton of FREE events happening this month so you can still get out enjoy yourself, bill-free and stress-free. Take a look at 10 free things to do this month in Toronto below:
If you hate the gym and/or have ever wanted to salsa your way to rock-hard abs, then don’t miss this free latin dance fitness class at Fusion Cardio Toronto. This low to medium impact class is a great way to kick-start your workout routine and be on your way to that bikini-ready bod. The best part? It’s FREE! Sign up for the class here or find similar classes here.
Image: Fusion Cardio
Get your ass in gear and get ready to pound the pavement. The Queen Street Lululemon crew is back for another run on April 10. The 6 km run is free to join and will be happening rain or shine. Think 6 km sounds intimidating? FYI: running with a crew is easier than running alone. Your new pals will help you get through it. Learn more here.
Every second Sunday of the month marks the Parkdale Flea!!! If you’re looking to get out and browse a wide selection of vintage goods, succulents, candles, accessories and so much more, then head on over to the neighbourhood on Sunday, April 9 – the forecast for beautiful weather is excuse enough!
It’s bat flip season – you know the drill! Welcome back our boys in blue during the Home Opener at Steam Whistle on April 11. The event will include a batting cage, human-sized beer pong, live tunes and game day specials. While the beer may not be free, it sure beats paying double for an overly-priced tall can from a seat in the Rogers Centre that’s far, far away. Plus did we mention there’s no cover?
Image: Instagram/@bluejays
Shop late. Eat late. Dance late. Drink late. Party late. Hang late… you get the idea. The Midnight MRKT is back for their Spring Edition on April 14 and they’re ringing in the start of market season with a ton of awesome local brands. Come out and window shop free-of-charge, or go for the live DJ tunes and street food (we’re sure you have some change lying around).
If you’re looking for something fun, free and tasty to do with the fam on Easter Sunday, don’t miss the Corktown Easter Egg Hunt. As all easter egg hunts go, kids will be encouraged to get out and try to find them all, while there will be chocolate treats, cider, Redline Coffee and more for the adults. BYOB (B stands for basket not beer).
Adult life is hard and has many, many bills to pay but that’s okay because on April 20 you can drop the act and pretend you’re a kid again at Board Games Night at The Station co-working space. Fanatics and newbies are welcome to come join other creatives in a night of laughs, snacks and a variety of games. May the best man win!
Image: Pexels
Get ready for another Drop, Swap & Shop event at Evergreen Brick Works this April 23. If you’re not familiar with the event, attendees bring in gently used items like clothing, accessories, dishes (anything really) in exchange for a ticket per each item. Once you’ve gathered your tickets, now it’s time to shop!!! Seeing as it’s Earth Month we can’t think of a better time to “reduce, reuse and recycle.”
We’re pretty sure that by now the Trinity Bellwoods Flea needs no introduction. Head out to the Great Hall on April 23 to browse their Spring edition, the April Showers Market. Discover local brands and food, enjoy live music and soak up some good vibes all for free admission. See the full list of vendors here and if can’t buy now, add to your shopping wish list.
The Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival is back and this year they’re kicking things off with an opening night party at Ryerson University, open to all. Learn about all of this year’s installations and exhibits and schmooze with like-minded creatives. Plus map out all the free exhibits you’d like to see out of the 200 projects and events happening across the city.
Image: Instagram/@contactphoto
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Another year, another Valentine’s Day, another empty wallet. Just because you’re young and in love doesn’t mean you have to be young and reckless. Think like an adult this year and remember, it’s always the thought that counts – not the budget, even when we’re talking about Valentine’s Day so to speak. Lucky for you, whether it’s a new found romance you’re not quite ready to invest in, you’re frugal AF or you’re just broke, there are a ton of romantic and affordable activities happening in the city. Take a look at the top cheap dates for Valentine’s Day in Toronto below:
Grown a** adults can have fun too! Grab your boo and get in touch with the kid inside at Grown Games Night on February 10th at the United Steele Workers Hall. Try your hands at Jenga, Soca Twister and so much more during the Anti-Valentine’s Day games night. Shhhh! They don’t have to know it’s a date. Get tickets for $5 here.
Don’t miss the sexiest fair of the year – The Erotic Arts & Crafts Fair will be spicing things up at The Gladstone Hotel on February 11th from 10 am to 4 pm. Browse a wide assortment of erotic-inspired objects created by knitters, crafters, zinesters, card makers, and artists of all types for a truly saucy Valentine’s Day.
The Melody Bar at The Gladstone will be hosting their weekly Fameless Karaoke night but this one’s a little different… In light of Valentine’s Day, attendees are encouraged to pick a song from a curated list of love ballads. So stare your boo down and sing your heart out, cuz even if your voice sucks your lover will only have eyes for you. Remember, love is blind, so the saying goes – or deaf in this case.
Will you beer mine? Fall in love at first sip during A Night of Brew-mance at Mill St Beer Hall. From 6 pm to 1 am, get hopped up on love to soulful beats, and live music by Jeremy De Freitas and DJ Humble Mike, while you down some smooth brews. No cover, no worries – just love!
Stretch it out and open your hearts! Lululemon will be holding a special 75-minute heart opening yoga class so that you and your S.O. can melt away any tension and feel peaceful AF. Plus you’ll also be feeling super limber which will come in handy for later activities if you know what we mean. Register for $10 here and bring a towel, along with an open heart (mats provided).
Make this Valentine’s Day as sweet as can be – literally and figuratively. Chef Christina Tosi, founder and owner of Milk Bar, will be popping up with her award-winning desserts at The Drake Hotel for a delicious meet and treat. Think souped up White Russians and dessert cocktails that you and your S.O. can lovingly share. Call or email host@thedrakehotel.ca to make a reservation.
If you or your S.O. are hopeless romantics, head out to the Romance Short Film Festival at Carlton Cinema for sweet, sappy, and moving films about love. Prepare to be all doe-eyed as you watch this year’s flicks, which we might add are free to see or by donation – it’s up to you. Be inspired and then live out your own picture-perfect romance IRL.
If you still haven’t skated yet this winter, now’s your chance! Pretty soon the snow will be melting, so why not make your last skate one for the books?! Hold hands and look all coupley and cute as you shimmy on down the ice with your beloved. For details on skate rentals, head here.
FYI: It’s the last month of Ever Green Brick Works’ Winter Village – one of our favourite winter outings! Eat, shop, and play as you explore the different markets, then cozy up near a fire pit with your boo. It’s the perfect winter getaway you can take, without actually leaving the city.
If food is the way to your lover’s heart then woo your boo (and your bank account) with a cheap dinner date. Remember, just because it costs less, doesn’t mean it isn’t freakin’ delicious, plus food that doesn’t leave a huge dent in your wallet always taste a little sweeter. Take a look at some cheap dinner date suggestions here.
January has been one hell of a dreary month! If you’re feeling slightly more depressed than usual and like the sun may never shine, you’re not alone. While we can’t control the weather, we can definitely control our mood – or at least try to. Lucky for you, these events are fun and free! Take a look at 10 free events in Toronto and the GTA this February 2017 to get you outta that winter funk:
It’s your last chance to visit the magical Winter Village at Evergreen Brick Works before they close for the season. Skate your heart out at the picturesque ice rink or get your nature on by hiking through the 40-acre Weston Family Quarry Garden. Afterward, warm up by the cozy camp fires and if you have a couple of bucks to spare, visit the Street Food Market vendors for yummy international bites from family-run eateries.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day is the Love (Actually) Exhibit by Scarlett O’Neill, a Toronto-based photographer that has shot almost 500 weddings. The exhibit features a number of different wedding photographers and is open to the public on the 2nd floor of the Gladstone Hotel. Featuring all things love, the exhibit is meant to give perspective on how much wedding photography has evolved over the years and put a spin on traditional wedding shows. If you’re getting married soon, this event might be particularly inspiring – all of the dresses, floral arrangements, and vendors featured in the photos will be listed in the exhibit.
Join Cycle Toronto for their annual Coldest Day of the Year Ride! Brave the winter weather and head out to Art Eggleton Park at Harbord & Grace to ride-along with fellow cyclists. The family-friendly ride will depart at 11:30 am, tour some of the best bike paths in Toronto and finish nearby Yonge and Gerrard. You might want to grab a pair of ski goggles though, just sayin’.
Tis’ the season of hearts, pink, chocolate, and flowers—you know what that means? Valentine’s (and/or Palentine’s) Day shopping! Join the Gladstone hotel on Wednesday, February 8th and browse a ton of handmade gifts for lovers, singles (treat yo self), and everyone in between. For a full list of vendors, head here.
If you’re a fan of both flea markets and Valentine’s Day, then the Bellwoods Flea – Valentine’s Day Edition at 876 Dundas West is the creme de le creme. With 20+ vendors, finding a unique VDay gift will be a piece of cake – think local and handmade art, baked goods, beauty care, clothing, accessories and more. Plus, there will be a full bar, snacks, and arcade machines.
The best way to woo your boo is to woo their stomach. Do just that by learning three romantic recipes with Chef Deborah Verginella at Miele Gallery Caplan’ s. The free class will have you prepared for Valentine’s Day with tasty recipes starring sweet potatoes, arugula, tuna, and pasta. What it won’t prepare you for is all the doting you’ll receive from your lover post meal. Sign up/ RSVP for the class here.
Getting married soon? The Old Mill is calling all love birds! They’re hosting an open house on Wednesday, February 22nd. Along with viewing the venue, couples will have chance to meet preferred vendors, enjoy h’ors d’oeuvres/ refreshments, view hotel suites and enter to win an overnight getaway and couples massage. Make sure to RSVP!
Ice, ice, baby! Alright stop. And put your warmest gear on because a magical ice fest is headed to the Bloor-Yorkville ‘hood. Taking over Cumberland and Bellair Street, this year’s theme will celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary. Take a stroll and awe at 20,000 pounds of crystal clear ice sculptures which will include Canadian Mounties, an iconic Maple Leaf, and Parliament Buildings with a Centennial Flame. Oh, Canada!
It’s been a gloomy month in Toronto. We’ve seen so little sun, that the Toronto Star is claiming it’s a legitimate cause for depression. You could pop those vitamin D’s or plan a visit to the Allen Gardens, aka tropical paradise and the perfect winter pick me up! The botanical gem is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day and will have you feeling like your 1,000 miles away from our cold reality.
The 2017 Winter Exhibit Season at the Power Plant is here and so are free Power Tours every Saturday. Instead of meandering through on your own, go on a 30 minute guided tour and actually learn a thing or two about the exhibits. Current artists include Maria Hupfield, Kapwani Kiwanga, Jonathas de Andrade and Latifa Echakhch.