The weekend is here, the forecast is bright, and Toronto is buzzing with events that promise to feed your appetite, spark your creativity, and keep the good vibes going all weekend long.

From street food festivals and cultural celebrations to creative workshops, Toronto is packed with vibrant events this weekend. 

Whether you’re looking to explore global flavours, dance to live music, try your hand at DIY art, or soak in the city’s summer energy, there’s something for everyone happening across the city!

Here’s what to check out.

Friday, Aug. 8  

Toronto Waterfront Night Market 

Get your taste buds ready to enjoy bites from across Asia, sip on cocktails and Soju bombs, and take in live art and handcrafted creations. 

As night falls, head to the Unity Bridge and join the glowing spectacle of floating lanterns. Attendees can release their own LED water lantern into the water and make a wish under the sunset sky. 

The market will take place at Hotel X on the Exhibition Grounds, and tickets start at $22.95. They can be purchased here.

Oistins in the 6ix

Sankofa Square will transform into a slice of the Caribbean from 6-11 p.m., as the spirit of Barbados comes alive in the heart of the city.

Inspired by the island’s famous Oistins Fish Fry, an iconic Friday night tradition known for its food, music, and energy, Oistins in the 6ix will offer a vibrant evening of Caribbean culture and entertainment.

The free event will feature live performances from Caribbean artists, including a headlining set by Soca legend Alison Hinds, along with authentic Caribbean dishes from local vendors, complimentary Bajan rum tastings, and a draw to win a trip for two to Barbados for Carifesta XV (winner must be present).

The event is open to the public, and no RSVP is required.

Taco Fest Toronto 

TasteToronto is bringing the heat with a three-day taco celebration spotlighting some of the city’s top chefs!

With over 250 varieties of tacos on offer, Taco Fest continues to be a must-visit for food lovers.

The high-energy festival promises a jam-packed lineup of flavour, featuring everything from mouth-watering tacos and freshly made churros to ice-cold margaritas and the festival’s signature tequila and mezcal bar. 

Back by popular demand, the fan-favourite taco showdown returns this year, giving attendees the chance to vote and help crown Toronto’s best taco.

Tickets start at $17.50 and are running out fast, purchase them here.

Saturday, Aug. 9

Play on the Runway

Play on the Runway returns to YZD (formerly Downsview Airport lands), transforming the historic 1km runway into an open-air playground of movement, music, and discovery. 

From biking and roller skating to live performances and hands-on activities, the weekend offers something for all ages, set against the backdrop of the Toronto skyline.

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Guests can expect interactive zones featuring the latest electric bikes and scooters, rentable roller skates, skateboarding lessons, and colourful kite displays from the Toronto Kite Fliers Club. Performances by roller dancers, hula artists, and musicians will keep the energy high, while food trucks serve up eats throughout the day.

Tickets are complimentary, and registration is required. Sign up here and enjoy a playful weekend with YZD!

Mimosa Fest Toronto

A celebration of flavour, fashion, and music is set to take over Toronto this weekend with a one-of-a-kind mimosa-themed event. Attendees can sample a wide-range of mimosa varieties, catch top bartenders competing in a Mixologist Contest, and watch a high-energy model competition unfold on stage.

The day will also feature live DJ sets, fashion shows, and non-stop entertainment. Each ticket includes entry into a draw to win a trip for two to the Dominican Republic. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased here.

With drinks, music, and vibrant energy, this event promises to be a standout on the summer calendar.

Postcards to Home – Collage and Creative Writing Workshop at Scarborough Museum

Scarborough Museum is hosting ‘Postcards to Home,’ a collage and creative writing workshop led by Jamaican-Canadian multidisciplinary artist Jasmine Vanstone.

Participants will create personal postcards exploring themes of culture, identity, and home, whether reflecting on heritage, neighbourhoods, or the people who bring a sense of belonging.

No art experience is required, and attendees are encouraged to bring a photo that reminds them of home for added inspiration. Vanstone, known for her work in collage, murals, poetry, and community arts programming, uses her practice to amplify marginalized voices and foster creative self-expression.

The event is free, but registration is required. Register here.

Sunday, Aug. 10

Toronto Outdoor Picture Show (TOPS) at Christie Pits: When Morning Comes

TOPS has selected Toronto filmmaker Kelly Fyffe-Marshall as this year’s Spotlight Filmmaker, recognizing her debut feature When Morning Comes—a tender coming-of-age story about a Jamaican boy preparing to leave home for Canada. 

The film explores themes of migration, identity, and belonging through the eyes of a child, resonating with first-generation immigrant experiences.

The screening will take place at Christie Pits, and no payment or admission is required. Bring your own blankets and chairs.

T-Shirt Printing Workshop

Artbox is hosting a hands-on T-Shirt Printing Workshop, where participants can design, print, and press their own custom t-shirts or tote bags using professional tools and techniques.

Ideal for beginners, the session covers sublimation and vinyl printing methods with guided instruction on using a Cricut, heat press, and sublimation printer. 

The workshop offers a relaxed studio atmosphere with music, complimentary drinks, and snacks.

Tickets are limited and can be purchased here.

JerkFest Toronto

Centennial Park will come alive from Aug. 8-10 with the flavours, sounds, and energy of the Caribbean at this year’s JerkFest. Enjoy the last day celebrations featuring mouthwatering jerk cuisine, live cooking demos, food contests, and a bustling marketplace showcasing artisan goods and cultural gems.

Attendees can connect with top chefs, explore Caribbean culinary traditions, and take in vibrant entertainment throughout the park. 

The event is cashless, and tickets can be bought online.

From sizzling plates to cultural experiences, it’s a weekend of food and festivities not to be missed.

For a list of events, check out our events calendar, powered by Now Playing Toronto. 

To list your event, click here.