Welcome to Things to Do in Toronto! It’s Saturday, August 30, 2025, and whether you’re a local or just dropping in for the weekend, the city is buzzing with late-summer excitement. This morning started off cool around 9°C, but the sunshine has burst through, promising warmer, pleasant temps for exploring today[6][3].

Toronto is embracing a festive, energetic vibe as the season’s big events hit their stride. The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) enters its final weekend, drawing big crowds for wild rides, over-the-top food creations, midway games, and live performances. With nearly a million visitors so far and counting, this iconic fair won’t be back until next summer, so catch it before it wraps up Monday[3][6].

Up at Nathan Phillips Square, the Toronto Dragon Festival returns for its sixth edition. Dive into Asian street food stalls, marvel at dragon and lion dances, and stay after dark for the dazzling Luminati Night Light Show above the pool. The festival’s free and open for all ages until 11 tonight and again tomorrow, making it a can't-miss downtown spectacle[1][3].

For music fans, the Intersection Music & Arts Festival is shaking up Sankofa Square with experimental and genre-blending sounds. Celebrating boundary-pushing artists—local and international—you can enjoy installations and performances all weekend, and it’s all free[1].

Families and aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Canadian International Air Show. From noon to 3:40 p.m. today through Monday, Canada’s top aviators, including former Snowbirds, will soar over the waterfront in breathtaking displays. Look up for jaw-dropping stunts and classic planes[3].

If you’re looking for laughs tonight, head to Free Times Cafe for the “Immigrants R’ Us” standup comedy show. Doors open at 6, show starts at 7—expect sharp wit and hilarious takes on race and culture in Canada. Bring friends, but remember: it’s a mature crowd, 18+ only[5].

Now, the city’s heartbeat isn’t just about events. On the practical front, the TTC is running a regular schedule today and will shift to holiday service on Monday, so plan accordingly for Labour Day closures. A major sinkhole repair at Coxwell and Cosburn continues, so avoid the area until it reopens next week[3][6]. Most major grocery stores and municipal offices will be closed on Monday, but big attractions like the CN Tower, Toronto Zoo, and Eaton Centre will be open, offering plenty to do if you’re staying through the holiday[6].

For your “must-do” activity list today:
- Grab a snack and stroll through Kensington Market’s quirky boutiques and vintage shops.
- Chill out at Sugar Beach Park for an urban waterfront escape and killer photo ops[4].
- Consider a Niagara Falls day tour for jaw-dropping sights just outside the city—a local favourite perfect for end-of-summer adventure[8].

Toronto tip: Nathan Phillips Square’s pools are free to the public, so after you’ve checked out the Dragon Festival, dip your toes or simply relax while the city floats by. Did you know Toronto’s streetcars are one of the largest systems in North America? Grab a PRESTO card and hop on for easy, scenic transit between neighbourhoods.

Tomorrow, be sure to check out the final day of the Dragon Festival, more CNE fun, and keep an eye out for pop-up street performers and live music across Queen Street West. Join us again for more things to do—Toronto always has something around the corner!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI