Toronto knows a thing or two about activities, especially during the winter months. But after the craziness of the holidays, your wallet could definitely use a break. Luckily, this January, you don’t have to spend a penny to be able to enjoy some amazing activities around the city. We’ve rounded up the very best free events for you to enjoy.
Here are 15 free events to check out this month in Toronto!
Skating at Nathan Phillips Square
Grab your skates and head to Nathan Phillips Square where you can enjoy free daily skating as you enjoy the picturesque views of Toronto City Hall. Equipped with change rooms, washrooms, a snack shop, and skate rentals, this skating rink has everything you need for a quintessential winter day.
When: Open daily through March 22
Time: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 100 Queen Street West
Price: Skating is free, skate rentals available on-site
DJ Skate Nights at Natrel Rink
Toronto’s hottest winter skating party is back for another exciting season with another stellar lineup of DJs that will bring the heat to your Saturday nights. Featuring house, R&B, soul, disco, soca, hip hop, dancehall, throwback, drag anthems, and pop, there will be music for every taste, and for every occasion.
When: January 11, 18, 25
Time: 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel Rink
Price: Admission is free
The Bentway Skate Trail: Winter Season
The Bentway below the Gardiner Expressway is worth braving the cold for. Not only is there free ice-skating on the 220-metre, figure-eight skate trail (you may bring your own skates or rent for $10), there’s an on-site winter village that serves hot chocolate, drinks, and boozy beverages for skaters and spectators, while warming stations will help visitors get toasty before getting back on the ice.
When: January 6 through February 7
Time: Weekdays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; weekends, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Boulevard
Price: Skating is free; skate rentals start at $5 for kids or $10 for adults
AGO Free Wednesday Nights
Free admission on Wednesday nights at the AGO has been a longstanding tradition for years and is a great way to get your culture fix. The popular initiative invites Torontonians and visitors the chance to spend the evening at one of the largest and most distinguished art museums in North America and get inspired by the incredible art displays and new and changing exhibits.
When: Every Wednesday night (January 8, 15, 22, 29)
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas Street West
Price: Admission is free
No Pants Subway Ride
The ‘No Pants Subway Ride’ returns to Toronto for another cheeky year. Hosted by the No Pants Society, the annual risqué event will be taking place simultaneously in over 50 cities around the world this month with the hopes of bringing a smile to commuters’ faces. Here in Toronto, the pantless ride will be be followed by a parade from Wellesley Station to a no pants dance party (location to be announced).
When: January 12
Time: 3 pm to 10 pm
Where: The ride begins at the CF Eaton Centre’s Dundas Street entrance
Price: Free to participate, but you’ll have to pay for your TTC ride
Mayor’s Skate Party
Celebrate the new year with Mayor John Tory and City Councillors at Kew Gardens for the annual Mayor’s Skate Party. Come on down to enjoy a fun afternoon that’s filled with music, hot beverages, and of course lots of skating. Even better is that skate rentals are free, too!
When: January 12
Time: 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Where: Kew Gardens
Price: Free
Winter Stations Presents: Loop
Leading up to the return of Toronto’s annual Winter Stations, event organizers are teaming up with the city’s Waterfront BIA to bring more public art to the city during the coldest months of the year. This month, Torontonians can check out ‘Loop’, which is an interactive retro-futuristic machine powered by the public. Visitors can hop on two at a time into one of the six illuminated cylinders and pump a lever to activate the lights and glowing images.
When: January 15 through February 18
Time: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily
Where: York Street Park (York Street and Harbour Street)
Price: Admission is free
Province Apothecary Mini Facials @ Detox Market
If getting your skincare game together was on your list of goals for 2020, then look no further. On January 16, head to the Detox Market flagship for your free Province Apothecary mini-facial that’s followed by relaxing accupressure point stimulation and education about your skin type. There are limited spots available so make sure you RSVP early so you don’t miss out on your best skin ever thanks to this free event.
When: January 16
Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Detox Market Flagship (116 Spadina Ave)
Price: Free
DesignTO
DesignTo returns to Toronto for its 10th installment this month to celebrate Canadian art and design. Over the past decade, DesignTO has grown from a collection of seven exhibitions and events to a ten-day Festival of over 100 free exhibitions and events throughout the city. You can find full programming details here.
When: January 17 through 26
Time: Varies by exhibition
Where: Venues throughout the city
Price: Over 100 exhibitions are free to the public (others are ticketed)
Toronto Light Fest
With the coldest and darkest days upon us, the city’s historic Distillery District will be the place to be for the fourth annual Toronto Light Fest. Bringing dozens of curated light installations and illuminated sculptures created by a number of local and international artists, the Toronto Light Festival should not be missed.
When: January 17 through March 1
Time: After dusk
Where: Distillery District
Price: Admission is free
Rom 3rd Tuesday Nights Free
The ROM is giving Torontonians the perfect reason to leave their homes this winter with the return of 3rd Tuesday Nights Free. During this monthly event, ROM guests will be able to explore art, culture, and nature in the museum’s 30 galleries and collections from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, completely free of charge.
When: January 21
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queens Park
Price: Admission is free
Power Plant Opening Party
To kick off the 2020 winter exhibition season, Toronto art enthusiasts can check out a free party on January 24. Attendees will be amongst the first to experience new exhibitions by Naufus Ramírez-Figueroa, Dawit L. Petros, Naeem Mohaiemen, and Rashid Johnson. There will also be a cash bar available on-site throughout the evening.
When: January 24
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: The Power Plant
Price: Admission is free
The Mommonality MRKT
Experience the very first Mommonality MRKT to shop all sorts of goodies. It’s at this exciting market that you can shop over 40+ vendors from a wide range of categories including adult & children’s apparel, accessories, home decor, custom gifts, and lots more!
When: January 26
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Mississauga Convention Centre
Price: Admission is free
Winter Fridays
Happening every Friday until February 14 at Evergreen Brick Works is Winter Fridays where you can make the most of those chilly winter nights. While we love cozying up at home with a movie and cup of tea, sometimes you just need a night out. At Winter Fridays you can skate for free, enjoy DJ performance, and food & drinks from food trucks.
When: Every Friday night (January 10, 17, 24, 31, February 7, and 14)
Time: 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Where: Evergreen Brick Works
Price: Admission is free
Free Mindfulness Meditation
Clear your head with some free guided meditation. that’s happening every Monday at 6 p.m. until February 3. Located at Centre Place on Richmond East, the meditation is open to everybody regardless of your experience. While this event is totally free, a donation of at least $5 is suggested. If 6 p.m. doesn’t work for your busy schedule, you can still stop by until 8 p.m., although the guided part of the meditation ends at 7 p.m.
When: Every Monday night (January 13, 20, 27, February 3)
Time: 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Where: CentrePlace (320 Richmond St E – Unit 101)
Price: Admission is free
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The holidays are an expensive time of year, but luckily, getting your fill of holiday fun and cheer doesn’t have to be! There are plenty of free and festive activities to take part in from now until the end of the year.
From movie showings to skating galore, here are 16 free things to do in Toronto over the holidays.
Go Skating Underneath The Gardiner
Grab your skates and head down to The Bentway, the 220 metre skate trail underneath the Gardiner Expressway. The figure eight loop is open seven days a week and it’s completely free to visit! If you don’t have skates, there are rentals (for a fee) on site, as well as an outdoor Corona Après Patio bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic bevvies and The Quaker Lounge, stocked with delicious oat-based eats. Get more details.
Lace Up Your Skates At Union Station
You don’t need to own a pair of skates to skate Union Station! From now until January 4, the skating rink at Union Station is completely free to check out. There are free skate rentals, free skating lessons daily from 12 to 4 p.m., and DJ skate nights on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. Get more details.
Check Out The Winter Village At Evergreen Brickworks
It’s your last weekend to visit the free Winter Village at Evergreen Brickworks. There’s a picturesque outdoor skating rink, a local market for browsing, live music, and plenty of delicious eats. The last day of the market is December 22. Get more details.
Browse The Holiday Fair In The Square
Nathan Phillips Square has been transformed into a beautiful festive market! Take part in festive fun in the heart of downtown Toronto and enjoy skating, rides and games, seasonal treats, or a drink at the outdoor bar. Browsing is free, but you’ll need a little pocket change for everything else. The fair is open until December 23. Get more details.
Visit The Merry & Bright Holiday Market At Square One Shopping Centre
If you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Square One Merry & Bright Holiday Market! There are tons of Instagrammable moments and free DIY workshops, plus opportunities to win some amazing prizes like a SMEG stand mixer, IKEA gift cards, and more. The market is open until December 24. Get more details.
Free Community Screening: Elf — December 21
Check out a free screening of the Christmas favourite ELF over the holidays! The screening will take place at Revue Cinema on Roncesvalles Avenue. While the screening is free, they will be accepting donations for the Parkdale Community Food Bank. You can register for tickets online for the 1 p.m. showing, however, the tickets don’t guarantee entry, so be sure to get there early to save your seat! Get more details.
Free Community Screening: A Christmas Story — December 22
Another free movie screening happening in support of the Parkdale Community Food Bank is one for A Christmas Story. Like the showing for Elf, tickets can be reserved online for the 1 p.m. showing, but they don’t guarantee a seat. Get more details.
Sunday Morning Yoga at Lululemon Yorkdale — December 22
North Toronto yogis will be happy to hear that Lululemon will be hosting a free yoga class on December 22 at its Yorkdale Shopping Centre location. All you have to do is register online and show up with your mat to take part in the 45-minute practice. Get more details.
Winter Photo Walk — December 22
Photography enthusiasts will love this event. On December 22 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., join TDot Shots and other photographers to explore downtown Toronto, shoot new spots, and meet other likeminded folks. Get more details.
Scotiabank Next Generation Celebration — December 22
On December 22, Scotiabank will be throwing a special event at The Bentway in celebration of the Toronto Maple Leafs Next Generation Game. Hockey fans won’t want to miss this — from 1 to 3 p.m., you can #SkateThe8 with the Toronto Maple Leafs’ official mascot Carlton the Bear and meet NHL alum Shayne Corson. Get more details.
Make Your Own Personalized Holiday Ornaments — December 24
On the hunt for a super last minute gift? Here’s your opportunity to make one that’s super personal. The Toronto Reference Library will be making free 3D printed holiday ornaments for drop in visitors between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on December 24. There’s a limit of 1 ornament per person and it’s first-come-first-serve, so get there early! Get more details.
Catch A Free Screening Of The Isle Of Dogs — December 27
The Toronto Public Library – Lilian H. Smith Branch on College St. will be hosting a free family-friendly screening of the Isle Of Dogs on December 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. Get there early for the best spot! Get more details.
Pilates For Hikes Class at Fjallraven — December 29
From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on December 29, head to the Fjallraven flagship store on Queen St. West for a free Pilates for Hikers class. Register online for the opportunity to do a free one-hour pilates class, light refreshments, and leave with a goodie bag with freebies from Manitoba Harvest, Love Good Fats, Well Told, Flow Hydration, and more. Get more details.
The Bentway Polar Bear Skate — December 29
You’ve heard of the polar bear dip, but what about the Polar Bear Skate? Another fun event happening at The Bentway will have you skating in your skivvies. From 1 to 4 p.m., join others in skating in their underwear on the figure eight loop — the first 100 pre-registrants will get free hot chocolate! Get more details.
Watch Party: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban — December 30
Calling all Potter Heads! On December 30 at 7 p.m., Poor As Shoes will be hosting a watch party for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and there will be games, prizes, and more, including a best dressed prize for the person who comes in their best Harry Potter garb. An RSVP doesn’t guarantee seating, so head there before 7 p.m. to guarantee your spot. Get more details.
Watch The Fireworks At Nathan Phillips Square — December 31
Just like years past, this New Year’s Eve, Nathan Phillips Square will be putting on a big celebration to ring in the New Year. The annual event will have a DJ skate party, live musical performances, and fireworks, making it a perfect event for the family! Get more details.
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It’s November and while the snow has already disappeared, that doesn’t mean you can’t take part in fun winter activities because after all, ’tis the season for ice skating and drinking a few glasses of mulled wine. We’ve rounded up our 11 favourite free places to get our skate on in Toronto to help narrow down your options. Bundle up, grab your friends or significant other, and visit one or all of these picturesque rinks. Winter has almost arrived, so we might as well suck it up and embrace the chillier temps. Now, go practice those triple axels you didn’t master last year.
Nathan Phillips Square
A unique fixture in Toronto is Nathan Phillips Square that’s right by City Hall. This popular spot offers an exceptional space to skate right in the heart of our city. Brightly lit and decorated for the holidays, this rink is totally Instagrammable, especially with that world recognized “Toronto” sign. Skate rentals are $10 per adult for 2 hours and $5 for children 12 and under, plus snacks and washrooms are located on site.
Where: 100 Queen St. West
Date Opening: November 30th
Harbourfront Natrel Rink
Arguably one the best skating rinks in Toronto is the Natrel Rink at the Harbourfront that has fabulous views Lake Ontario and the CN Tower. Skating here is completely free, but skate rentals are $13/adult. Hot food and drinks are available rink-side at Boxcar Social, and heated indoor changing rooms are on site.
Where: 235 Queens Quay West
Date Opening: November 16th
High Park
High Park has free ice skating for everyone of all ages, as well as organized games for child hockey. There are separate hours for unsupervised public skating but unfortunately, no skate rentals available.
Where: 1873 Bloor St. West
Date Opening: November 30th
Greenwood Park
Greenwood Park is a great place for an evening skate if you’re out and about in the city’s east end. While the rink is outdoors, it features a covered roof that provides some much needed shelter if it’s a snowy or rainy night. This park offers skating, hockey skills, and power skating classes for all ages. While no skate rentals are available, the rink is free to skate on.
Where: 150 Greenwood Ave
Date Opening: November 30th
Colonel Samuel Smith Park
Located along a stretch of wooded shoreline in the Kipling and Lakeshore area (next to the Power House Recreation Centre), this ice skating rink is more of a figure-eight trail than it is a rink. There may not be food vendors, change rooms, or skate rentals available on-site, but skating is free!
Where: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd West
Date Opening: November 30th
Christie Pits Park
Located in the city’s west end, free ice skating is available at Christie Pits Park 7 days a week. Varying hours for women-only, children-only, all ages, and adult-only skating. There is no skate rental at this rink but there are change rooms.
Where: 750 Bloor St W
Date Opening: November 30th
Trinity Bellwoods Park
Another west-end rink is the one at Trinity Bellwoods Park, but this one is located north east section of the park. Aside from public skating, the rink also shinny for kids and adults.
Where: 790 Queen St West
Date Opening: November 30th
Evergreen Brick Works
Evergreen Brick Works offers free public skating and skating lessons for all ages throughout the week with a rink that surrounds a small garden of evergreen trees. Skate rentals are available for $5 a pair and they even provide free helmets for skaters 18 and under. The rink was supposed to open on November 30 but because of the warmer weather, it’s slated to open December 7.
Where: 550 Bayview Ave
Date Opening: December 7th
Ontario Place
Ontario Place will be transformed into the Aurora Winter Festival that’s great fun for the whole family. In addition to skating, there’s a tube park, massive light displays, a Christmas Market, amusement rides, food, and much more. Skating on the frozen pond is no extra charge when you purchase a ticket, but skate rentals cost $7.
Where: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
Date Opening: November 22nd
The Bentway Skating Trail
It’s back! The Bentway’s magical 220-meter skating trail will be open under the Gardiner Expressway. In addition to all the skating fun, The Bentway offers free skating lessons and rentals will also be abailable.
Where: 250 Fort York Blvd
Date Opening: December 20
Union Station
Head to Union Station on November 29 until January 4th to go for a skate. This is the first time that Union Station’s Sir John A. McDonald Plaza on Front Street will be home to a free outdoor skating rink in Toronto, that’s approximately half of the size of an NHL ice rink. What’s even better is that even skating lessons, skate rentals, and helmet rentals will also be offered by TD and Union for free.
Where: 65 Front Street West
Date Opening: November 29
When the cold weather hits, it can be tempting to stay bundled up inside hibernating for the next four to six months (or however long it takes until we see the sun again). With snow on the ground and temperatures in the double negatives, the last thing on anyones mind is going on a date. But this year don’t let your love life catch the winter blues. These cheap and cozy winter dates will make you fall in love with the city you live in – and maybe even with that special someone you bring along with you.
Here are 8 fun and cheap winter dates to go on in Toronto!
Spend a Friday Night Live at the ROM
Until the end of November, the Royal Ontario Museum is hosting an art-filled Friday night bash. Discover the ROM like never before with food, drinks, and musical performances. Want to impress your date with your stunning art and history knowledge but can’t make it to the party? Not to worry, on the third Tuesday of every month admission to the museum is totally free!
Explore the Toronto Christmas Market
The annual Toronto Christmas Market is a must-see attraction in the months leading up to the holidays. If you haven’t been, then you definitely need to check it out and if you have then you know how magical it is. Stroll hand in hand with your date as you browse the vendors for unique gifts and tasty winter treats. With Christmas carollers singing in the background and Christmas lights giving off a romantic glow, it will feel like a scene from a Christmas movie. All the holiday fun starts on November 14 and admission is free Monday to Thursday, but will only cost you $8 on the weekend.
Go For A Skate at The Bentway
Skating is such a classic and fun winter activity – making it an obvious idea for a cute and casual date. For an under-the-radar spot, you and your date can avoid the crowds of tourists at Nathan Phillips Square and head to The Bentway to slip on your skates instead. This outdoor event space under the Gardiner Expressway opened last year and transforms in the winter into a winding skating trail.
Catch a Concert at the Danforth Music Hall
If you and your significant other are live music fans, then a concert might just be the perfect date for you guys. A show at iconic Toronto music venue, Danforth Music Hall is your chance to see an up-and-coming artist in a more intimate setting. Who knows, you might even get to see the next Drake or Shawn Mendes. For some pre-concert fuel, the venue just opened its own restaurant, the Danforth Sidebar.
Go for A Drink
Going for drinks is, understandably, the most common first date idea. It’s a low-pressure way to get to know someone in a casual environment, and the drinks help chase away any first date nerves. If you’re looking to switch it up a bit, we recommend going to a speciality bar this winter. After all, the best thing about winter is the excuse to drink all the warm drinks we were too sweaty to have in the summer. Her Father’s Cider Bar + Kitchen on Harbord has a selection of over 100 ciders to choose from, so you and your date can compete to find the best tasting one.
Watch a Movie at the Paradise Theatre
This historic Toronto theatre is reopening on December 6 after a major renovation just in time to host your winter movie dates. The theatre will show a mix of new films and older classics as well as a variety of live shows. The art deco building will add a vintage feel to your date, giving it much more character than just seeing the newest blockbuster at the movie theatre at your local mall.
Experience the Toronto Light Festival
From January to March, The Distillery District is being transformed into a visual experience put on by the Toronto Light Festival. This is the third year for the festival, so you know it’s going to be better than ever before. You and your date can check out all the colourful exhibits and admire the incredible light instillations.
Try Toronto’s Best Restaurants with Winterlicious
This yearly event is a food lover’s dream. Nearly 200 of Toronto’s best restaurants participated last year, offering three course, prix fixe menus at special prices. This is the perfect opportunity for you and your date to try out some of the best flavours our city has to offer. Winterlicious is back from January 31 until February 13 so mark your calendars!
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Just because summer is technically over doesn’t mean that the fun stops. September brings a slew of fun and free events including Toronto Fashion Week, TIFF, and more.
Take a peek at our top picks for the best free events happening in Toronto this September.
XPOSED x Gigi Gorgeous — September 4-15
Toronto Fashion Week is happening the first week of September and in addition to fashion shows, TFW will be partnering with the arts-focused platform for a new exhibit. Hosted by influencer Gigi Gorgeous, the exhibit will be connect art, fashion, and culture through photography. Check out XPOSED x GIGI at The Oval at Yorkville Village from September 4 to 15.
TIFF Festival Street — September 5-8
The Toronto International Film Festival is back this month, and along with a slew of celebrities comes the annual Festival Street! Taking over King St. West from Peter St. to University Ave., there’ll be tons of things to check out. Head over for star-gazing, a Nespresso Pop-up Café, an Acura NSX VR Experience, a L’Oréal Paris Iconic Beauty Bar: Test & Play, and so much more.
The Dragon Festival — September 6-8
Experience authentic Chinese art and culture at the Toronto Dragon Festival 2019. This three day event will be held from September 6 to 8 at the Nathan Phillips Square and is completely free! Dance performances by talented artists, cultural booths, and food are just some of the many things that you’ll be able to experience. The event starts at 11 a.m. and will go on till 9 p.m., so you have all day to check it out!
The Bentway Museum Of The Moon — September 10-15
Instagram/@madeia_perimadeia
This month you can find the moon underneath the Gardiner! The Museum of the Moon features a big seven-metre wide moon by U.K. artist Luke Jerram. Get up close and personal, and enjoy meditation under the moon from September 10 to 13 and 15, astronomy talks, and live story telling. On September 14, there’ll be a live podcast taping with Laurie Brown and Joshua Van Tassel, a sing-a-long with Toronto-based Choir! Choir! Choir!, a performance by Bernice, and a silent disco set by Rich Aucoin. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out Undercurrents, a water-themed photo exhibition, too!
Porsche x KING Toronto VIP Event — September 12
Instagram/@porschecanada
If you love luxury cars then this is an event that you don’t want to miss. King Toronto is inviting you to a VIP event hosted at 529 King St. West with cocktails and canapés, and it’s free! Check out all eight generations of Porsche as well as the new Porsche 911 on September 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. — just remember to RSVP. And if you can’t make it on the 12, you can still visit the exhibition from September 13-15.
Ukrainian Festival — September 13-15
Explore Ukrainian culture during North America’s largest Ukrainian street festival. Celebrating 23 years in the Bloor West Village, there will be a children’s midway, refreshment garden, craft and artisan market, food vendors, live performances, and a film festival. It’s a great excuse to get outside and enjoy the city with your family and friends!
Open Streets TO — September 15
Instagram/@openstreetsto
Getting bored at home? Join in on the fun on September 15 with your family and friends for another open street event. Starting at Bloor and Ossington and going all the way Yonge and Shuter St., there will be activities like yoga, rollerskating, an escape room-based puzzle, art installations, and more from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.!
Monday Nights Free At The ROM — September 16
Instagram/@romtoronto
Head over to the Royal Ontario Museum for free on the third Monday of every month! From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., you’ll get to check out the 40 permanent collections at no cost.
Astrology 101 With Nadine Jane And Mejuri — September 17
Instagram/@mejuri
If you’re interested in learning about your Sun, Rising, and Moon signs, head over to The Burroughes for a night of astrology with Nadine Jane and Mejuri. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop Mejuri’s new 14k Zodiac necklaces and charms, and win a private reading with Nadine Jane Astrology. All you have to do is RSVP to reserve your seat!
Bellwoods to Bentway Park Crawl With David Suzuki Foundation — September 29
Facebook/The Bentway
From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on September 29, join the David Suzuki Foundation in a butterfly-filled musical spectacle and parade from Trinity Bellwoods to The Bentway. The event will start in Trinity Bellwoods Park where participants are invited to decorate their own bee and butterfly costumes. The parade will go through Stackt Market and end at The Bentway where there’ll be food and drinks, musical performances, and social time.
Featured image: Instagram/
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When you don’t want to be cooped up in a gym, but it’s way too hot for intense cardio outside, outdoor yoga is an ideal solution. Another reason to do it this summer? It’s completely free. Get in your asana over the next few months without spending a dime so save those funds for the post-class frap!
Here are 7 places to do free yoga this summer in Toronto!
Tribe X Bentway Summer Yoga Jam
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Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Boulevard
When: Sundays at 7 p.m. from June 16 – August 25
Tribe X is known for its inclusive free workout series and its Sunday evening yoga class at The Bentway beneath Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway welcomes all ages, levels, and abilities, all summer long. Well-behaved pets are even allowed, too.
Yoga In The Square by Lululemon Eaton Centre
Instagram/@ydsquare
Where: Yonge Dundas Square
When: Mondays at 12 p.m. from July 8 – September 2
Lunch hour yoga, anyone? If you work around Yonge and Dundas, you may want to make this part of your Monday routine. The mid-day Yoga in the Square event is for Torontonians of all experience levels, and is hosted by a rotating slate of yoga teachers. You’ll also be flowing to a soundtrack of live music by local artists. This is definitely yoga like you’ve never experienced.
FREE Beach Yoga with PUR YOGA Toronto
Instagram/@puryogatoronto
Where: PUR YOGA Toronto, 2245 Queen Street East
When: The second Monday of every month until September 9 at 7 p.m.
This community-driven yoga studio in the heart of the beach holds a free evening yoga class at the foot of Hammersmith Avenue in the Beaches. Watch the sun set and let the stress of the day roll off your back.
KARMA YOGA Community Yoga For Charity
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Where: Culture Athletics, 1175 Queen Street East
When: Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Culture Athletics’ Karma Yoga is a passion project led by a crew of Toronto-based instructors who want to share the benefits of yoga with our very in-need city. A $5 donation is required, but you get a one-hour vinyasa flow that’ll get you sweaty then chill you out all for the price of a latte. Also check out the team’s free Buti Yoga in the Park event on July 14th at 10 a.m. at Leslie Grove Park.
Chandra Yoga Shala Presents Free Yoga
Instagram/@chandrayogashala
Where: Ourland Park, 36 Ourland Avenue
When: Every Sunday until August 25, from 12 to 1 p.m.
Join an all-levels Vinyasa class on the grass outside at Ourland Park hosted by the team at wholly-inclusive yoga studio, Chandra Yoga. Stay tuned on Chandra Yoga’s Facebook page for rain changes.
CF Summer Fit Series – Saturday Yoga
Instagram/@cfshopsdonmills
Where: CF Shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Road, Town Square,
When: Every Saturday from May 25th to September 7th, 10 to 11 a.m.)
Start Saturday off with a complimentary yoga session in CF Shops at Don Mills’ Town Square hosted by Physiomobiliy. Stay for a Biermosa after class courtesy of Biermarket and good luck resisting a mall crawl after those endorphins and cocktails.
Laya Spa & Yoga @ SheaMoisture Pop Up
Instagram/@layaspayoga
Where: 128 Peter St
When: July 31, from 2 to 4 p.m.
The Ayurveda inspired wellness spa and yoga studio on Queen West is teaming up with cruelty-free hair and skin care company SheaMoisture to offer a one-off afternoon of free yoga. Bless pop-ups.
Featured Image: Instagram/@ydsquare
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7 Outdoor Workouts To Take Part In This Summer In Toronto
Now that the warm weather has finally arrived, it can only mean one thing, it inevitably becomes easier to forget about your regular gym routine and focus more on spending time in the sun, hitting up patios, hanging in the park, and enjoying al fresco dining. But rather than giving up on the gym completely, why not continue making the most of the sunshine and taking your workout outdoors? Luckily for you, many Toronto parks, squares, and public spaces offer lots of outdoor workouts with lots of them free and low cost to help you stay on track.
If you’re looking to get in a good workout and spend time outside, here are 7 outdoor workouts to take part in!
Bumble Sweat Series
Instagram/@trainedbylany by @andredeephotography
On Saturday, July 13, trainer and founder of Trained by Lany, Lany Herman, will be teaming up with Bumble to lead a sweaty outdoor workout at Toronto’s Canoe Landing Park. While the class is free, participants can snag their spot through the Bumble App. Whether you want to bring your BFF, partner, or come on your own, you’ll get to enjoy a killer workout while taking in the picturesque city skyline views. Plus, there will be awesome Puma swag giveaways up for grabs.
When: Saturday, July 13 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Where: Canoe Landing, 95 Fort York Boulevard
Price: Free to attend with the Bumble App
City Shred
Instagram/@city_shred
If you’re a fan of group workouts, then you’re going to want to be a part of this epic one-day group-training experience. Taking place at Central Tech Stadium, City Shred that’s fuelled by Genuine Health, will challenge you to push your limits and work as a team, all while breaking a serious sweat. Participants can look forward to a live DJ, a burpee challenge, a warmup led by Toronto’s top fitness trainers, a HIIT workout led by renowned trainer and former athlete Evan Betts, a cool down session, and much more.
When: Sunday, July 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Central Tech Stadium, 725 Bathurst Street
Price: $35
Yoga in The Square
Instagram/@ydsquare
Taking place in the heart of downtown Toronto, Yonge-Dundas Square is teaming up with Lululemon to host free, weekly community yoga classes. Taking place on Monday afternoons, all yogie levels are welcome to center themselves as they breathe, stretch, and get refreshed in the centre the popular square. lululemon will be providing mats, so don’t sweat if you don’t own one!
When: EveryMonday until September 2 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square
Price: Free to attend
Toronto Island SUP
Instagram/@torontoislandsup
It should come as no surprise that paddleboarding is a popular summer activity in Toronto. Not only do you get to take in the incredible views of the city and Toronto Islands, but you also get a killer workout at the same time. Whether you’ve been paddleboarding before or you’re a newbie, Toronto Island SUP offers a variety of classes all summer long including stand-up paddleboard yoga lessons and illuminated night classes to solo or group board rentals for those wanting to trying paddleboarding on their own.
When: Classes and rentals are available until the end of September
Where: Toronto Islands
Price: Varies by activity
The Sweat Games
Instagram/@thesweatgames
Grab your favourite workout partner and get ready to sweat as you enjoy some friendly competition. Created by fitness and Instagram star Beverley Cheng, The Sweat Games participants will spend the afternoon squating, lunging, and burpeeing their way across the finish line while they compete against other fitness enthusiasts. Plus, even if you don’t come home as the Sweat Champion, you’ll leave with an impressive swag bag filled with healthy snacks, drinks, supplements, and more.
When: Saturday, August 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Central Tech Stadium, 725 Bathurst Street
Price: $169.50 for a team of two
Outdoor Yoga at The Bentway
Instagram/@thebentway
You can end your weekend on a relaxing note as you downward dog beneath the Gardiner Expressway at The Bentway for a free yoga class led by outdoor workout specialists from TRIBE Fitness. This weekly, fun yoga class is intended to strengthen both the body and the mind, and is open to all fitness levels.
When: Every Sunday through August 25 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Boulevard
Price: Free to attend
The Famous Canadian Beer Run
Instagram/@canadianbeerrun
If you find regular races are a bit too intimidating, you’ll enjoy this fun 5km run that feels more like a party than a serious race. Once you’re finished running The Famous Canadian Beer Run through Ontario Place, you can sample craft beers and tasty bites from some of the city’s best food trucks. Not a beer drinker? There will also be vodka and cider drinks up for grabs.
When: Saturday, September 14 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Boulevard West
Price: $65 for runners or $25 for non-runners
Featured Image: Instagram/@thesweatgames
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Hello, summer! The sun and heat has officially made its presence known in our city and what better way to celebrate the season by checking out all the fun (and free) activities Toronto has to offer? One of the joys of living in Canada’s biggest city is that there isn’t ever a shortage of excitement to be had. If you’re looking to get out and have a good time without spending a dime, then you’re in the right place.
Keep reading for a list of 8 super fun Toronto events that are all free!
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show Free Movies, July 4-25
Instagram/@topictureshow
With how expensive movie prices are, it’s important to hit up the cinema whenever there’s a deal happening, or when admission happens to be free. This month at Corktown Common, grab your friends, a blanket, and snacks and indulge in the magic of movies under the stars all for zero cost thanks to Toronto Outdoor Picture Show, a non-profit that presents outdoor cinema in Toronto’s public spaces.
Beaches International Jazz Festival, July 5-28
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Attention all jazz fans, the city’s beloved Beaches International Jazz Festival is back from July 5 – 28 and it’s sure to be a big one this year. With over 100 performers, this month long jazz extravaganza is completely free so if you haven’t checked it out, this year is your year!
Salsa On St Clair Street Festival, July 6-8
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Feeling the summer heat? It’s about to get even spicier up here in TO thanks to the Salsa On St Clair Festival happening on July 6 – 8. This free street festival takes over midtown Toronto by transforming a stretch of St. Clair Avenue West from Winona Dr. to Christie St. into Canada’s biggest salsa party, plus you can even take lessons for free!
Get Fresh. Stay Clean. Ice Cream Party at Harbourfront, July 6
Joe Fresh x Tide
What’s more refreshing than a cold treat on a hot summer day? Joe Fresh and Tide have partnered and to celebrate, the brands are giving out free nut-free frozen treats while supplies last on July 6 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Bentway Block Party, July 7
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Located right under the Gardiner is The Bentway and it’s a gorgeous park, and one of Toronto’s most notabke outdoor gems. This month on July 7, head on down to experience the Block Party which boasts free concerts, scavenger hunts, a DIY art project, and more!
Music In The Orchard at Spadina Museum, July 7
Instagram/@withcamera
If you can’t make it down to The Bentway, a little further uptown is Music In The Orchard that’s happening at Spadina Museum (next door to the more famous but equally majestic Casa Loma). Pull up a lawn chair and tuck in to enjoy the music stylings of the 1920s, when the museum was the Austin family home.
Yoga In the Square – June 10 to September 2
Instagram/@ydsquare
Who doesn’t love a good yoga class? How about a free yoga class? That’s right — from June all the way into September, take part in free yoga happening at Yonge & Dundas Square. Happening every Monday from 12 to 1 p.m, grab a few pals for a free yoga class right in the center of one of Toronto’s busiest intersections.
Featured Image: Instagram/@arjsun
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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.
Here is a look at some of our top picks for Family Day in Toronto:
Rink Social (480 Shuter Street)
Instagram/@breanapoirier
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.
Toronto-Qinhuai Lantern Festival (1500 Birchmount Road)
Family Fun at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario (Queen’s Park)
Instagram/@joejtw
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.
Fort York Family Day (250 Fort York Boulevard)
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.
Work up a sweat at Planet Fitness
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.
Family Day at Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Avenue)
Instagram/@shutter.lily
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
Toronto Light Festival (55 Mill Street)
Instagram/@maikuwong
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!
Family Day Weekend at the Bentway (250 Fort York Boulevard)
Instagram/@workerbeesupply
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.
Featured image: Instagram/@hyrestaff
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Another amazing event is coming to The Bentway and it’s going to be a feast for the eyes. The exhibit, titled WATERLICHT, is a huge light display that explores the role of water and all its dangers. Created by Daan Roosegaarde, the large-scale light installation represents the universal power, poetry, and danger of water.
Live from the creative heart of London! In front of Central St Martins WATERLICHT mesmerizing thousands of Londoners. pic.twitter.com/nnksMIRZDS
— Studio Roosegaarde (@SRoosegaarde) January 19, 2018
The displays are created through the imaginative use of LEDs, special software, and lenses. Larger-than-life, cascading waves of blue light will soar underneath the Gardiner Expressway, simulating a virtual flood and calling attention to rising water levels along Toronto’s shoreline.
Featured Image: Instagram/ @thebentway
Source: Blogto.com