Fall has arrived, and we're excited to celebrate all that October has to offer. Between Thanksgiving and Halloween, this month is a busy one filled with a diverse range of events that are more than just harvest and haunts. So, to help you start planning your month, we've gathered up a list of free things to do in Toronto this October.
This month, you don't need money to have a phenomenal time. There are plenty of events happening to keep you entertained. You'll want to make sure to explore Nuit Blanche, everyone's favourite all-night art event that you just can't miss. If you're foodie, make sure to head to Chat Bar's grand opening because they will be giving away free food to the first 100 people who show up.
To celebrate Halloween, make sure to visit The Bentway for an adorable parade of dogs in Halloween costumes. If you have a dog, you could bring your pup in costume, too. Another great option is exploring PumpkinFest, which is guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. There, you'll find plenty of vendors, live entertainment, and, of course, pumpkins.
Here are 14 free things you'll want to do in Toronto this October. Enjoy!
Howl’oween
Price: Free
When: October 26, 2019
Address: The Bentway, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: Arrive with your dog in costume to join the pup parade.
Nuit Blanche
Price: Free
When: October 5, 2019
Address: Various locations
Why You Need To Go: For one day, Toronto will be transformed with stunning art installations.
PumpkinFest Toronto
Price: Free admission
When: October 12-14, 2019
Address: Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Road, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: This is the perfect way to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend. There will be plenty of vendors, entertainment, and a pumpkin patch to explore.
Sunday Artisan Market
Price: Free
When: Every Sunday in October
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: It's a fun spot to go window shopping. There are plenty of vendors selling one-of-a-kind treasures, plus lots of seasonal fall items for sale, too.
Chat Bar Grand Opening
Price: Free (as of 5:30 p.m.)
When: October 4, 2019
Address: Chat Bar, 5312 Yonge St, North York
Why You Need To Go: For the grand opening, they will be giving 100 free platters of their signature dishes to the first 100 customers.
Study & Go Abroad Fair
Price: Free
When: October 6, 2019
Address: 255 Front Street West, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: If you want to travel more, this fair is the place to explore. You can find out how to work or study around the globe.
Trivia At The Peacock
Price: Free
When: October 23 & 30, 2019
Address: Peacock Public House, 582 College St, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: The winner will get a $50 bar tab.
World Press Photo Exhibition
Price: Free
When: Until October 23, 2019
Address: 181 Bay St, Allan Lambert Galleria, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: It's a showcase of some of the best photographs that capture stories from around the globe.
imagineNATIVE
Price: Free and ticketed events
When: October 22–27, 2019
Address: Various locations
Why You Need To Go: You can explore a showcase of Indigenous films and media arts. Some of the free events include playing with VR, attending talks, or joining an art crawl.
Pedestrian Sundays In Kensington Market
Price: Free
When: October 27, 2019
Address: Kensington Market, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: Spend the day exploring this open-air market with your friend.
The Toronto Biennial Of Art
Price: Free
When: Until December 1, 2019
Address: Various locations
Why You Need To Go: For 72 days, there will be stunning free art to enjoy.
Royal Ontario Museum
Price: Free (from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)
When: October 21, 2019
Address: 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: This is your chance to visit the Royal Ontario Museum for free.
J-Horror Double Bill
Price: Free (register online)
When: October 8-9, 2019
Address: Revue Cinema, 400 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: You can watch two horror films, The Vampire Doll and Lake Of Dracula for free.
Toronto Flower Market
Price: Free admission
When: October 12, 2019
Address: 1001 Queen St. W, Toronto
Why You Need To Go: This will be the last Toronto Flower Market for the year!
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