It’s that time of year when, if you need a reason to stay out all night, roaming the downtown streets and along the waterfront while admiring groundbreaking art is the perfect way to do it.
It also helps that the weather appears to be cooperating, so what are you waiting for?
Here’s what you need to know to make the necessary plans.
Nuit Blanche
Toronto’s all-night celebration of contemporary art returns from sunset to sunrise. This year’s theme is Bridging Distance, which will explore the different ways we experience distance and reimagine how we can bridge distance through art.
The art installations will evolve throughout the night through live interaction by the audience, artists and performers.
Go where the art takes you on Saturday at 7 p.m. to Sunday at 7 a.m.
For more information on the venues and exhibitions, click here.
Spooky at Illumi
It’s the ultimate fall experience for people of all ages featuring Halloween scenes, whimsical jack o-lanterns, spiders, skeletons and glowing ghouls, all set to iconic horror film soundtracks.
Head to 7174 Derrycrest Dr. in Mississauga beginning Saturday.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Double Ten Taiwan Fair
Immerse yourself in this vibrant celebration of Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage that explores the best of Taiwanese traditions and connects with the heart of the city through music, dance, martial arts, food and crafts.
Head to Yonge-Dundas Square on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information, click here.
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Toronto Burlesque Festival
It’s a celebration of the best of burlesque, drag, cabaret and circus arts from Canada and around the world featuring more than 50 incredible, glamorous, high-calibre performers.
Back for the first time since 2019, the festival can’t be missed.
All the beautiful fun is at El Mocambo until Sunday.
For tickets, the schedule and more information, click here.
The Next Chapter Festival
It’s the largest literacy festival where you can check out thousands of books for kids of all ages, hear tales from talented young authors, make bookmarks or enjoy movement and play sessions and storytelling by a local author.
Read all about and go to Scarborough Town Centre on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information, click here.
Picklefest Food & Drink Festival
More than 50 vendors offering all things pickled and fermented await you, and don’t forget the fully licensed beverage selections.
Relish it all at Henderson Brewing Co. at 128a Sterling Rd. on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Markham Fair
It’s got everything a fall fair should have from tractor and horse pulls, monster trucks and a demolition derby, a dog show, a gymnastics demonstration, jugglers, drag, live music, food, fireworks and so much more.
The tradition continues at the Markham Fairgrounds on Thursday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Sneaker Con Toronto
The top sneaker vendors and latest streetwear meet under one roof for an event like no other.
Whether you’re a dedicated collector, just starting out, or simply a fan of footwear, take it all in or bring your shoes to buy, sell, or trade.
Run over to the Enercare Centre on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Art/Wear: Sneakers x Artists
This new exhibition explores the growing trend of artists using sneakers in conceptually rich ways to challenge and redefine conventional artistic boundaries, blurring the lines between art, fashion, and commerce.
These fabulous collabs can be appreciated until March 23, 2026 at the Bata Shoe Museum.
For tickets and more information, click here.
CIBC Run for the Cure
Take part in the 5k or 1k run or walk that raises funds for the Canadian Cancer Society — the largest single-day, volunteer-led event in Canada in support of the breast cancer cause.
There will be performances and a group warm-up for participants and supporters.
Toronto’s run is at Sir Winston Churchill Park at 301 St. Clair Ave. W. on Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
To register, to find a run close to you, or for more information, click here.