toronto parks

The top 5 events at Toronto parks before summer ends

Toronto has had no shortage of park events this summer, and lucky for us all there's plenty in store for the rest of the season. Aside from recurring events, you'll find these one-off events that'll take over green spaces this August and September.

Here are my picks of what to do in parks before summer ends.

Butterfly Festival (Tommy Thompson, August 22)
This event is ideal if you want a more family-friendly option. In celebration of the Monarch butterfly migration, Tommy Thompson is hosting a fest filled with nature hikes and educational displays. You'll be able to check out over 55 species of butterflies and moths while you roam the park grounds. A huge bonus, it's 100% free.

Cityfest (Canoe Landing Park, August 22)
Cityfest is a one-day-only event at Canoe Landing Park. Expect all the usual festival shenanigans: a beer garden, live music, food vendors and more. The best part? You don't have to drop a dime for entry.

Paws in the Park (Woodbine Park, August 23)
Poochella may have been cancelled in June, but have no fear - your pet can still have it's time in the limelight this summer. Paws in the Park is taking over Woodbine Park at the end of August and bringing along plenty of pet-themed fun for all you canine-enthusiasts. Expect to find everything from a photo booth to groomers offering up mini makeovers.

Queen West Art Crawl (Trinity Bellwoods, September 12-13)
Whether you're revamping your home or just like to do a little window shopping, outdoor art markets are a great way to pass the time. The Queen West Art Crawl, happening in Trinity Bellwoods, will bring a host of retail vendors and local artisans to the park to sell their wares. You'll also find food and a performance zone, which gives it more of a festival vibe (if you aren't there to shop).

Riot Fest (Downsview Park, September 19-20)
Riotfest's move to Downsview last year came with a big upgrade in their line-up, four times the stages and a second day, slowly edging closer to the monster size of their US counterparts. Thanks to this year's apparent "heavier + hip-hop" mandate, they've convinced Alexisonfire to reunite, bringing along however many of the Wu-Tang Clan can get across the border, Rancid, and many more.

What did I miss? Add your favourite park event to the comments.

Photo of Riot Fest


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