We get it – sometimes the bills stack high and budgeting gets tough. Toronto may be an expensive place to live but a big city has its perks! There always seems to be a number of fun things going on that won’t cost you. With that in mind ditch the FOMO and don’t let Spring pass you by without hitting up some these awesome activities. Take a look at the top ten free events in Toronto and the GTA below:
Spring to the Beach (May 5 & 6)
Kick off summer and head to The Beach Village on Queen St. East (located between Lockwood and Neville Park) for Spring to the Beach. Browse local vendors during the sidewalk sale, grab some local eats at the newly renovated Kew Gardens Park, and top it off with some live music at the Mill Street Beer Garden. The event is free to attend so if you can’t afford much shopping, go for the atmosphere – you’re guaranteed to have fun.
Kite Fest 2017 (May 6)
Remember the days when the only things necessary for a good time were your friends, a kite, and some sun? Scoop up the chance to feel like a kid again at Kite Fest 2017 in Earlscourt park on May 6 from 12 pm to 2 pm. Even if you don’t own a kite, grab a picnic blanket, lie back, relax and watch a bunch of kites take flight.
Blossom and Bloom Mother’s Day Market (May 12 – 14)
What mother doesn’t appreciate flowers? If you still have no idea what to do on Mother’s Day, head out to the Blossom and Bloom Mother’s Day Market at Union Station. As always the market is free to attend, so spend some chill time with mom and explore over 25 of the cities best artisans and florists, art installations, and interactive workshops.
Bonobo Flow Yoga (May 13)
The Drake Underground will be hosting a PWYC Bonobo Flow Yoga class on May 13. Bring yourself, your mat and a friend and let the smooth electronic beats get you into a good flow. As the Drake puts it, “chill-wave, chill rave!” Not to mention, if you work up an appetite, post-yoga brunch will be 15% off.
Gladstone Flea: Mother’s Day Edition (May 13)
You can always count on the Gladstone Hotel to throw a free event. Don’t miss the Gladstone Flea: Mother’s Day Edition on May 13. Take the women of honour herself or scrounge some couch money to buy her something unique from a number of local artisans and vendors.
Canada Job Expo (May 18)
If you’re looking at free event listings because you have no cash, you should probably go to this one. The Canada Job Expo is taking place on May 18 at North York Memorial Hall and is the most attended job and career expo in the GTA. Apple Canada, CIBC, Rogers, and Labatt Breweries are just several of the companies who have been vendors in the past. If you plan on attending all you need to do is register online.
Artfest (May 20 -22)
Distillery District’s area-wide arts and crafts festival, Artfest, returns on May 20 to 22. Wander down the cobblestones and through one of the city’s most historic sites – it will be filled with artist vendors, installations, performances, and local food and drink. There’s definitely bound to be a good photo op or two.
Waterfront Artisan Market (Starts May 20)
The Waterfront Artisan Market is back starting on May 20 and will be taking place every Saturday, well into the fall. The unique open-air market will feature a carefully curated mix of 75 local, up-and-coming artisans, crafters, chefs and bakers. And, of course, don’t forget the spectacular views of Lake Ontario!
Trinity Bellwoods Bed In (May 21)
Is hanging out in parks your jam? Then this public event is definitely for you. Make your way to Trinity Bellwoods Park on May 21 for the 4th BED IN for PEACE. Inspired by John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s arrival in Toronto in 1969, and their one-night Bed In at the King Edward Hotel that followed, the park will be transformed into a sea of blankets with live performers and musicians.
Barbados on the Water Festival (May 26 -28)
Get your fix of island vibes at the Harbourfront Centre on May 26 to 28 during the Barbados on the Water festival – the largest celebration of Barbadian culture in Canada! The festival will feature fashion shows, literary events, children’s activities, rum tasting and plenty of music. Who knows? Maybe it will inspire an actual trip to the Islands!
Did we miss any of the top free events in Toronto and the GTA?
Featured Image: Instagram/@kaligirl805
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