Summer doesn’t officially end until the middle of September, but once we get into August it always feels like the season starts winding down. That may have something to do with the fact we’re bombarded with ads for school supplies and fall clothing as soon as July is over, but don’t forget there’s still lots to do before it’s officially time to retire the shorts and sandals. Here are 10 things to squeeze into the rest of your summer.


Buy some delicious things from a farmers’ market

Although there are thankfully some year round farmers’ markets in Toronto, a good number of them shut down for the season from about the beginning of October. That’s why taking advantage of the bounty of fresh, local, seasonal produce on offer is so important. Just try to walk through a farmers’ market near the end of summer and not be tempted to buy something since everything is so bright, colourful and at its peak taste-wise.

Hit the beach one last time

If you have yet to plant yourself on a warm stretch of sand in the city there’s still time to remedy that unfortunate situation. Whether you head to the Toronto Islands to check out Hanlan’s Point Beach, go east to Cherry Beach or west to Sunnyside, there are plenty of sandy shores to keep you busy.

Go to a food festival

The chance to eat delicious things at a food festival is one of the best things about summer and if you haven’t been to one yet, rest assured you still have a chance to stuff your face.

If you like things hot you’ll want to check out the Hot & Spicy Food Festival at Harbourfront September 4-7. If you’re a vegetarian or just veg-curious there’s the Veg Food Fest from September 11-13. Spanish food-lovers will want to get tickets to PintxosTO, a celebration of tapas on August 23. Vendors include Patria, Marben, Cava, Carmen, Mamakas and many more. Taste of Manila is happening August 22-23 where you can get a taste for cuisine from the Philippines and Taste of the Kingsway happens September 11-13.

Head to a street festival

Like food festivals there are still some street festivals to add to your end of summer itinerary. A few worth checking out include Big on Bloor (August 22-23), Chinatown Festival (August 22-23), Buskerfest (August 27-30) and the Toronto Ukrainian Festival and the Polish Festival, both happening September 19-21.

Jump in a pool

Can you really say you experienced summer without at least one dip in a pool? Don’t stay goodbye to another summer season without at least one swim in one of the city’s many public outdoor pools, most of which close by September 6.

Ride the ferry to Toronto Islands

You can visit the Toronto Islands any time of year, but there’s no better time to go than in the summer. Whether you make island visits a regular part of your summer or you have yet to go, make sure to hop on the ferry before fall hits. Ward’s Island is my favourite, but anywhere you go on the Toronto Islands offers something fun to see or do.

Take a hike or go camping

Take advantage of the warm days we have left with a hiking or camping trip. Luckily, you don’t even really have to go far to do either. There’s some great hiking to be done right in the city and you can camp in Toronto in Rouge Park. If you have a bit of extra time there are also many great camping spots within about two hours of the city.

Go to the CNE

A trip to the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is a Toronto summer tradition and one that shouldn’t be missed for all the kitschy, carnival fun to be had there. There’s always some weird and wacky food to be found at the Food Building, rides to go on, games to play to try and win a giant stuffed animal, quirky shows to watch and live music.

Listen to some music or watch a movie outdoors

There’s a few more chance to catch a flick or watch an outdoor summer concert this summer. Music-wise, Summer Music in the Garden runs until September 13, Live on the Patio at the Roy Thompson Hall Patio is running until September 3 and Summer Music in the Park in Yorkville Park goes until September 12. As for movies, you can still catch a few outdoor screenings. City Cinema at Yonge-Dundas Square runs until September 1, Free Flicks at Harbourfront happens until September 2 and Sail-In Cinema happens August 22-23.                                                                                                    

Take a road trip

OK, so this one isn’t about Toronto specifically, but taking a road trips is another traditional summer experience. But you don’t have to go far to get a great experience. There are plenty of spots within a few hours (or less) drive from the city to satisfy your summer wanderlust.