10 things to do in Toronto this weekend (Aug. 7-9)

We’re up for another fabulous weekend in the city! And since we’re coming off a long weekend, it felt like this week flew by. But hey, we’re not complaining. Luckily, there are tons of things to do in Toronto this weekend that will make you want to head out and get some fresh air.

Here are 10 of the best things to do this weekend in Toronto.

The Toronto Country Fest will bring 18 days of live entertainment, western-inspired experiences, and family-friendly activities to The Distillery District.

When: Thursday, Aug. 6 to Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026
Time: Daily from 1 p.m. to late
Where: The Distillery Historic District — 55 Mill St.
Cost: Admission is free; some activities may be paid

Possibly one of the best Happy Hour deals in Toronto. Make your way to The Drake for $13 cocktails and 30 per cent off select menu items. You can enjoy this deal at its four spaces: the Sky Yard rooftop, the Cafe Patio, the Lounge, and the Modern Wing Lobby Bar.

See us there with a Hugo Spritz and $7 hand-cut fries.

When: Every day
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
Where: 1150 Queen St. W.
Cost: $13 cocktails, 30 per cent off select menu items

Get ready for another weekend of Electric Island! It’s taking place at South River in the Portlands. And tickets are still on sale.

When: Friday, Aug. 7 and Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
Where: South River in the Portlands — 185 Villiers St.
Cost: Starting at $100+tax/fees

All the skating fun begins on Aug. 7, with what organizers call “The Bentway’s legendary Roller Skate Party.” It’s co-hosted by BEATS + SKATES and The Melanin Skate Crew. This free community celebration will feature DJs, live painting, skate performances, vendors, and so much more, setting the tone for what to expect this upcoming season.

When: Friday, Aug. 7, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Where: The Bentway Skate Trail — 250 Fort York Blvd.
Cost: Free

JerkFest is considered one of Ontario’s hottest summer festivals with three days of delicious cuisne cuisine, live music from international acts and family entertainment.

When: Friday, Aug. 7 to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: Friday from 5 p.m. to late; Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to late
Where: 156 Centennial Park Rd.
Cost: Starting at $70

Canada’s largest street festival is back after a two-year hiatus. Taste of the Danforth will bring all the delicious eats, sounds, and vibes to the east end.

When: Friday, Aug. 7 to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: Friday from 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, noon to late
Where: Danforth Avenue from Broadview Avenue to Jones Avenue
Cost: Free to attend

Sunset Salsa is back at The Well this August. For the next few Saturdays (Sept. 12 included), the dancing event will offer 45-minute salsa lessons from a different instructor each week. It starts at 4 p.m., and then DJs will take over until 9 p.m. Think salsa, bachata, and cha-cha music. Olé Mocktails and cocktails will be available for sampling and purchase at the Pier Bar, along with food from Gus Tacos.

When: Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: 4 p.m. to late
Where: The Well, lower ground — 486 Front St. W.
Cost: Free

A pink double-decker bus will be rolling through the streets of Toronto, bringing in Canada’s first afternoon tea experience served in motion.

Though we’ve seen our fair share of jaw-dropping, questionable, and even shocking scenes in the city, there’s nothing quite like High Sociétéa.

It’s huge, it’s pink, and it’s moving. This double-decker experience offers a curated city tour, live violin, and a theatrical onboard experience under a panoramic glass roof with 180-degree city views.

When: Thursdays to Sundays
Time: From 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. through June
Where: Departure and return are from a central downtown Toronto spot (details after booking)
Cost: $125+

Each year, the Toronto Music Garden is transformed into a breathtaking open-air theatre, where music and nature intertwine in perfect harmony.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to experience the magic, as the sounds of talented Canadian artists and international names fill the garden with melody, rhythm, and soul, all completely free of charge.

When: Thursdays and Sundays until Aug. 27, 2026
Time: Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m.
Where: Toronto Music Garden — 479 Queens Quay W.
Cost: Free

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Karen Doradea

Managing Editor, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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