Sure, the dock parties, pool days, and music festivals may have come to an end.
But that doesn’t mean you should be too bummed out about summer ending. The fall is full with all kinds of events and festivals in Toronto.
Here are just eight that we can’t wait to hit.
1. FIVARS Festival
Just as TIFF ends, another film festival hits Toronto this weekend. Fivars is the first-ever Canadian virtual reality film festival, with previews today and tomorrow (September 19-20) from 1-6pm at UG3 Live. We don’t have to tell you that virtual reality is the next big thing. This year, Sony, Microsoft, and Google all have virtual reality products hitting the market in time for the holidays. The festival features 16 narratives from around the world including the UK, Canada, US, Syria, Germany and Norway.
When: Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20. Where: UG3 LIVE, 77 Peter Street.
2. AGO First Thursdays
A few weeks back, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO’S) First Thursday event returned after their summer hiatus. Held on the first Thursday of each month, it is a not-to-miss affair for Toronto YPs – art lovers and party regulars alike. Much like a scaled down version of the Art Gallery of Ontario’s Massive Party, the event offers an evening of art, entertainment, shameless networking, and, of course, a chance to sip cocktails and create art at the famed gallery. The second event returns on October 1 for a special pre Nuit Blanche sneak preview. In advance of the annual Scotiabank Nuit Blanche, guests will get to mingle over cocktails and preview installations by Christof Migone, Lisa Myers, Ekow Nimako + JR •
When: Thursday, October 1 Where: Art Gallery Ontario
3. Boobyball
Boobyball holds a special place in the hearts of Toronto young professionals. Why? It’s likely the first charity event you started attending in your YP life. And there’s always a fun theme – this year it’s Planet Booby. This means a packed house (it sells out every year) of some of the city’s hottest YPs. This year’s theme means intergalactic glamour meets a space odyssey, as guests get transported to another dimension filled with flashy cocktails, futuristic food, extraterrestrial entertainers, UFO’s, and a variety of other space ‘matter.’
When: Friday, October 2 Where: Sound Academy.
4. A RARE Evening
A RARE Evening’, which takes place at Steam Whistle Brewery, will raise awareness and funds for MPS II, a rare genetic and serious disorder that results in declined cardiac function, obstructive airway disease, joint distortion, and enlarged organs. The evening will include a keynote speech delivered by Nash (who will also auction off a signed jersey), an exhibit by award-winning fashion photographer, Rick Guidotti, entertainment from Lauren Roy and DJ Sara Simms, a live and silent auction, and no shortage of mingling with other likeminded young professionals.
When: Wednesday, September 23. Where: Steam Whistle Brewery
5. NXT City Night
On Thursday, September 24, NXT City Night will transform the former St. Andrew’s Market Hall – a former public market – as this year’s winning public space ideas are awarded to young people from across the country. Hosted by E!’s Tyrone “T-Rex” Edwards, guests can also expect installations by Wayward Collective, beats by renowned producer Jesse Futerman, drinks by Steam Whistle and Tequila Tromba and samplings from Oyster Boy, Kanpai Snack Bar, Vertical, Thoroughbred and Pai Northern Thai Kitchen. GetFresh, Jacflash, Spacing Store and Swipe Design + Books will also be on-site showcasing the best in Toronto goods. Tickets for NXT City Night are $25.
When: Thursday, September 24 Where: St. Andrew’s Market Hall
6. Just For Laughs Festival
The fourth annual JFL42 Festival returns for its 4 th year this fall, from September 24 to October 3. The festival features eight headliners performing at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts: Bill Burr, Craig Ferguson, Trevor Noah, Hannibal Buress, John Mulaney, Chris Hardwick and Miranda Sings. This year’s JFL42 boasts the most headliners in JFL42’s history and a schedule featuring over 100 shows, including comedy breakout stars and more podcasts than ever.
When: September 24 to October 3 Where: Sony Centre for the Performing Arts.
7. Toronto Cider Festival
The Toronto Cider Festival will allow you to experience a variety of amazing Ciders from across the country. Whether you are a cider lover or just looking to try something new, the event will showcase some of Canada’s best craft ciders, Toronto’s finest food trucks, live music, and more. You will also be able to enjoy cocktail competitions, contests and games, all while sipping down refreshing ciders from the top producers in the country.
When: Saturday September 26 12pm-10pm. Where: Yonge-Dundas Square
8. WeRise
WeRise is a day party like you’ve never experienced. Meaning, it takes place before work on a Wednesday. Yes, before work. Picture kicking off your morning with a relaxing and empowering pre-dance yoga class at 6am by certified yoga instructor and Notable.ca Founder Julian Brass, followed by a high-energy dance party. Powered by DJs, live music and dancers, complementary fresh pressed juice, coffee, tea, and some of the city’s most progressive health and nutrition brands, we promise to have your mind free, your body moving with your hands in the sky, and to get you ready to tackle the day ahead.
When: Wednesday, September 30, 6am Where: The Everleigh
