Looking for fun things to do in the GTA this weekend? Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking to enjoy the fall vibes, there’s no shortage of exciting events happening across the Greater Toronto Area. From all-night art festivals to pickle-themed celebrations, we’ve rounded up the top 20 activities you won’t want to miss. Check out our list below and make the most of your weekend!
Top Picks
1. Nuit Blanche
Experience Toronto’s iconic all-night art festival! This annual event takes over the city with spectacular art installations, interactive exhibits, and live performances across multiple venues. Perfect for night owls looking to explore Toronto’s creative side in a whole new way.
- Date: October 5-6
- Location: Multiple Venues, Toronto
- Cost: Free
- More Info: Nuit Blance 2024
2. Picklefest
Calling all pickle lovers! Picklefest is back at Henderson Brewing, bringing you all things pickle—pickle-flavoured brews, pickle-themed snacks, and even some surprising pickle-inspired creations! It’s the ultimate quirky outing for the adventurous foodie.
Date: October 5-6
Location: Henderson Brewing, Toronto
Cost: $15
More Info: Picklefest
3. Diwalicious
Celebrate Diwali in delicious style! Diwalicious takes over Mel Lastman Square Rink with spicy, sweet, and savory Indian dishes. It’s a foodie’s paradise with everything from traditional favorites to innovative fusion cuisine, set against a backdrop of vibrant cultural performances.
Date: October 4-5
Location: Mel Lastman Square Rink, Toronto
Cost: Free Entry (Food available for purchase)
More Info: Diwalicious Festival
4. GLB Beer Week Oktoberfest
Prost! Celebrate Oktoberfest at Great Lakes Brewery’s GLB Beer Week. Expect German-style beers, live music, games, and delicious bratwurst. It’s the perfect excuse to grab your friends and raise a glass to good times.
Date: October 4-6
Location: Great Lakes Brewery, Toronto
Cost: Free Entry (Food & Drink available for purchase)
More Info: GLB Beer Week
Family-Friendly Events
5. Newmarket Farmers’ Market
Support local farmers and artisans at the Newmarket Farmers’ Market. With fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, it’s a perfect family-friendly outing. Plus, enjoy the charming atmosphere of Historic Downtown Newmarket while you shop.
Date: October 5
Location: Riverwalk Commons, Newmarket, ON
Cost: Free
More Info: Newmarket Farmers’ Market
6. Free Pumpkin Painting
Bring the kids to Bradford Greenhouse for a fun-filled pumpkin painting event! Children under 12 can get creative and decorate their own pumpkins for free. A suggested $5 donation supports Roots For Youth, so it’s a great way to give back while having fun!
Date: October 6
Location: Bradford Greenhouse Garden Gallery, 3817 County Road 4, Bradford, ON
Cost: Free (Suggested $5 donation)
More Info: Bradford Greenhouse
7. Spooky at Illumi
Get ready for the ultimate fall experience at Spooky at illumi! This highly anticipated Halloween-themed spectacle spans 600,000 square feet—about 10 football fields—offering a mesmerizing journey through Halloween scenes, whimsical jack-o-lanterns, scarlet spiders, neon skeletons, and glowing ghouls. Don’t miss the highlight of the experience: the world’s largest tree of lights, standing at 47-metres high. This attraction is perfect for all ages looking to get into the Halloween spirit.
Date: Opens October 3, 2024
Location: Cavalia Grounds, Vaughan, ON
Cost: $17 +
More Info: Spooky at illumi
8. Markham Fair
The Markham Fair is back! As Canada’s largest four-day agricultural fair, it’s filled with non-stop fun for the whole family. Enjoy thrilling attractions like the Monster Truck Show, SuperDogs, and the Demolition Derby, along with classic favourites like the Tractor Pull and Horse Pull. Plus, explore animal displays, exciting competitions, and live performances throughout the weekend. Don’t forget to use the special code for $5 off your admission!
Date: October 3-6, 2024
Location: Markham Fairgrounds, 10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON
Cost: Starting $25 + ($10 for Children 12 & Under)
More Info: Markham Fair
Arts And Culture
9. Art Exhibition & Sale
Discover the beauty of local art at the Mill Pond Gallery’s Art Exhibition & Sale. Featuring works by Nina Vicole and Flora Bakhtiari Manesh, this event offers a wide array of styles and mediums. Whether you’re a collector or just browsing, it’s a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Date: October 5-6
Location: Mill Pond Gallery, 314 Mill Street, Richmond Hill, ON
Cost: Free
More Info: Mill Pond Gallery
10. Joy in the Park
Looking to kick back and relax? Head to Joy in the Park for a weekend filled with live music, dancing, and free apple cider and hot chocolate. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the fall atmosphere and celebrate community spirit.
Date: October 4-5
Location: David Crombie Park, Toronto
Cost: Free
More Info: Joy in the Park
Specialty Shows & Expos
11. Toronto Coin Expo
Are you a collector or just curious? Check out the Toronto Coin Expo, Canada’s largest coin and banknote show. Explore rare finds, meet expert vendors, and maybe even walk away with a new addition to your collection.
Date: October 5
Location: Toronto Reference Library, Toronto
Cost: $6 Admission
More Info: Toronto Coin Expo
12. NostalgiaCon Toronto
Travel back in time at NostalgiaCon Toronto! From classic TV shows and movies to vintage toys, this convention is a dream come true for pop culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re there for the collectibles or just the nostalgia, it’s a day packed with retro fun.
Date: October 5
Location: Enercare Building C, Toronto
Cost: $15 General Admission
More Info: NostalgiaCon Toronto
Concerts
13. Fred Again – Places We’ve Never Been Tour
Chart-topping producer, singer, and DJ, Fred Again, is bringing his Places We’ve Never Been tour to Scotiabank Arena for a night filled with electrifying beats and unforgettable energy. Get ready to dance your heart out to his hits and viral tracks!
Date: October 3 & 4
Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Cost: $138 +
More Info: Fred Again – Tour
14. Scott Pilgrim vs The World: The Tribute Concert
It’s been 20 years since Scott Pilgrim hit the big screen, and there’s no better place to celebrate than one of the movie’s original filming locations. Head to Lee’s Palace for an epic tribute concert featuring music inspired by the cult-classic film.
Date: October 4
Location: Lee’s Palace, Toronto
Cost: $25 +
More Info: Scott Pilgrim Tribute Concert
15. Death From Above 1979: 20th Anniversary Tour
Toronto’s own rock duo Death From Above 1979 is back to celebrate 20 years of their debut album in the city that started it all! Expect high-energy performances, nostalgic hits, and a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll.
Date: October 4
Location: History Toronto, Toronto
Cost: $95 +
More Info: Death From Above 1979
More Events You Shouldn’t Miss
16. Spooky Season Movie Month @ Soulpepper
Get ready for a month of free horror movie screenings at Soulpepper Theatre! Kicking off with a showing of The Shining, this series is perfect for anyone looking to get into the spooky spirit of October. Enjoy classic scares and cult favourites all month long at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts.
Date: October 4-25
Location: Young Centre for the Performing Arts, Toronto
Cost: Free
More Info: Spooky Season Movie Month
17. A Chance to Dance with the Wayback
Get your groove on and dance to pop covers of the biggest hits from the ’60s to the ’90s with the amazing cover band, The Wayback. With their unbeatable energy and classic tunes, this is your chance to take a trip down memory lane on the dance floor.
Date: October 4
Location: SMOKESHOW BBQ & BREW, Toronto
Cost: Free
More Info: A Chance to Dance with The Wayback
18. Read the Room: Nite JNGL
Get ready for a night of music, drag performances, and immersive light shows at the Paradise Grotto! This epic dance party has a little bit of everything, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to let loose and enjoy some creative performances.
Date: October 5
Location: Paradise Grotto, Toronto
Cost: $15 Admission
More Info: Read the Room: Nite JNGL
19. Day Party with Jax Taylor & Tom Schwartz
“Raise your cup” and party with the stars of Vanderpump Rules, Jax Taylor and Tom Schwartz! Join them for a day of cocktails, good vibes, and plenty of laughs at Greta Bar. Don’t miss this chance to mingle with reality TV’s favorite bartenders in Toronto.
Date: October 6
Location: Greta Bar, Toronto
Cost: $ 55 +
More Info: Day Party with Jax & Tom
20. Art Ride w/ Toronto Cruisers – Late Night Bike Ride
Ready to experience Nuit Blanche like never before? Join the Toronto Cruisers for a late-night art ride! Bring your bike and a sense of adventure as you pedal through the city, experiencing the vibrant installations and exhibits with a crew of new and old friends.
Date: October 5
Location: Multiple Venues, Toronto
Cost: Free
More Info: Toronto Cruisers – Late Night Bike Ride
