August marks Toronto’s unofficial (free!) festival season.
If you aren’t already aware, here are some of the festivals the city’s hosting this weekend, along with other (mostly) free events to enjoy out and about in the city.
African diaspora festival
African diaspora festival: From August 7 to 9, enjoy the multidisciplinary talents of the African diaspora, from Zimbabwe to Tanzania, thanks to non-profit Batuki Music. Learn how to drum Burundi-style, sip traditional Senegalese tea and bask in the varied musical lineup. This event is free and open to all ages, so what are you waiting for? Make a trip of it and head over to Harbourfront Centre to celebrate all sorts of African artistry.
Summer Soccer Social
Summer Soccer Social: Join Toronto Tenant Union for a free soccer-themed summer block party. Join a 4v4 soccer tournament, enter raffles and enjoy live music, games and more at York Jets Field on Aug. 8. Sign your team up and/or RSVP through their website to join the fun and support the union’s work with the community from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Melanated millennial throwbacks
Melanated millennial throwbacks: Looking to connect with fellow QTBIPOC who actually remember the ‘90s? Then Queer Kin Unity’s Take Me Back To The Good Ol’ Days party is the event for you. Mix and mingle with fellow 30+ something-year-olds at Soleil Toronto on Aug 8. For a reasonable price, dance the evening away to mixes by DJs Ace Dillinger and Big Sound Barbie from 4 to 9 p.m.
Black joy festival
Black joy festival: Join It’s OK World for their free outdoor festival celebrating Black talent and joy at Trillium Park. On Aug. 8, starting at 5 p.m., your free ticket gives you access to an evening of curated Black musicianship, community and joy. Sustain the night of fun with eats and drinks from local vendors like Matty’s Patty’s and Dose Coffee Club. If you can’t make it out on Saturday, then try catching their free screening of Toronto-based film Boxcutter on Aug. 7 at Canoe Landing Park.
Disability arts festival
Disability arts festival: Join The Disability Collective for a weekend of disability-centred arts programming where accessibility is not a forethought but its core. On Aug. 8, enjoy an afternoon of Crip Cinema hosted at the Tarragon Theatre from 2 to 10 p.m. The next day, enjoy community activities and market followed by a drag, burlesque cabaret-style event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wychwood Barns. Both events are ticketed and Pay What You Can, starting from $10.
York South-Weston Youth Party
York South-Weston Youth Party: On the evening of Aug. 12, For Youth Initiative and Black Action Defence Committee are taking over Keele Community Hub to host a youth block party. Watch ping-pong tournaments and take notes while watching barber and braiding demonstrations, all while enjoying some fresh BBQ from 4 to 8 p.m. The event is completely free, and if you sign up as a youth, you’ll automatically be added to raffles to be drawn during the event.
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