There’s something magical about gathering for something simple and good.
A concert in a laneway. A movie in the park. A block party where you finally meet the neighbour two doors down.
These free spring and summer events—organized by local BIAs, cultural groups, and passionate volunteers—bring our neighbourhoods to life in the way only community can.
No tickets or wristbands—just open streets, shared moments, and the quiet truth that the best things in a city are the ones we create together.
Here’s a Fiesta-curated roundup of the free and fantastical moments we wait for all year.
Cowanation Community Yard Sale
- Date: Saturday, May 31
- Time: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Location: Cowan Street, Parkdale
We weren’t even sure if we wanted to share this one, so we could get first dibs.
This isn’t your average garage sale. It’s a full-blown field day for treasure hunters, vintage lovers, and curb-side deal-chasers: no cars, just community and the thrill of the find. Get there early—Pyrex waits for no one.
Photo credit: TCAF
TCAF: Toronto Comic Arts Festival
- Date: June 7–8
- Time: Saturday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Location: Mattamy Athletic Centre
TCAF is where Toronto’s coolest nerds unite in glorious, genre-defying celebration of independent arts culture. Whether you’re deep into indie graphic novels or looking for a zine to flip through, you’ll find your people here. TCAF is fully committed to accessibility.
Photo credit: Jode Roberts
Willowvale Laneway Party (so secret there’s no link)
- Date: Saturday, June 7
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Willowvale laneway just south of Fiesta Farms
If you know, you know. The Willowvale Laneway Party turns the laneway just south of Fiesta into a joyful, no-fuss celebration of everything a great neighbourhood should be. Bring your favourite dish to the long-table potluck. Thanks to Jode Roberts and the Block Party Supply lending library in the Pits, it’s low-key, big-hearted, and proudly zero waste.
Photo credit: Na Me Res
Indigenous Arts Festival & Pow Wow
- Date: Saturday, June 21
- Time: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
- Location: Fort York National Historic Site
A powerful celebration rooted in the cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples of Turtle Island. The Grand Entry begins at noon with dancers, drumming, song, and ceremony. Expect craft vendors, traditional foods, and contemporary Indigenous music. It’s a joyful, moving experience that invites everyone to witness, honour, and celebrate Indigenous culture.
Photo credit: Salsa on St. Clair
Salsa on St. Clair
- Date: July 5–6
- Time: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Location: St. Clair Ave W (from Winona to Christie)
St. Clair turns into a full-on Latin fiesta—dancing in the streets, live bands, and fantastic food stalls. Two days, one street, infinite hip swivels—get in there.
Photo credit: Toronto Outdoor Picture Show
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show @ Christie Pits
- Date: Sundays, July 6–August 24
- Time: Snacks at 6:00 PM, Movies at sundown (~9:00 PM)
- Location: Christie Pits Park
Christie Pits is where the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show began, and it still feels like the city’s coziest open-air theatre. Think popcorn, kids on the grass, and a sky full of stars. This year’s theme, When We Were Young, is a love letter to the magic and mess of growing up. If you love the festival, make a donation to keep it the cameras rolling.
Photo credit: Big on Bloor
Big on Bloor Festival
- Date: July 19–20
- Time: 11:00 AM–12:00 AM
- Location: Bloor St W, Dufferin to Lansdowne
A car-free, creativity-filled takeover of Bloordale, Big on Bloor features murals, installations, live music, and workshops. This year, it’s all themed around the idea of BIZARRE, featuring workshops led by local BIPOC artists exploring the weird and wonderful parts of who we are.