What’s On for August Family Fun in Toronto

How is your family’s summer going; have you had the opportunity to create any special memories yet? Don’t fret if you haven’t! We still have the whole month of August ahead of us and it’s filled with family-friendly activities. Below we round up 15 ideas and activities for family fun in Toronto in August. Just make sure to pack the sunscreen and drink lots of water; it’s going to be a busy month and a hot one.

Events & Activities for Family Fun in Toronto in August

Toronto Public Library

100 Branches
Dates & Times Vary

Toronto’s public library system is an absolute gem for so many reasons, including its wide variety of kid-friendly programming. Catch a performance from WonderPhil, the magician; meet some new furry friends brought in by Pawsitively Pets; make all kinds of different crafts and do (and learn) so much more. Activities vary by branch location so be sure to see what all your local libraries have scheduled. While programming is free, some events do require pre-registration.

Fireside Munsch! Classics

Wychwood Theatre, Studio 176, 76 Wychwood Ave., Toronto
Until Sunday August 6

It’s back! Families love the Fireside Munsch show because it’s just so much fun. This time around the “wacky storytelling play” is bringing to life four of Robert Munsch’s biggest classics: Pigs, 50 Below Zero, The Paper Bag Princess, and Something Good. These shows are suitable for all ages, and even adults will find themselves chuckling along. Performance times vary depending on the date, but shows are scheduled for the morning, early afternoon, and early evenings. Tickets start at around $25.

Island Soul

Thursday August 3 – Monday August 7
Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto

Spend the August long weekend emersed in Caribbean culture at the 25th celebration of Island Soul. Dedicated to the many people and customs that make up this unique slice of the world, this festival features plenty of live music and delicious food. There’s also plenty of family-friendly activities, including a story times, a silent disco and a drop-in, hands-on workshop that will teach your kids the a bit about French Caribbean percussion. Access to the festival is free.

Toronto Diversity Festival

Monday August 7
Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W, Toronto

Head downtown and celebrate multiculturalism at the sixth annual Diversity Festival. Hands-on workshops, games and live performances will keep the kids busy while you shop the many vendors and maybe take in a cooking demonstration or two. And be sure to come hungry because this event will also feature dozens of food vendors. Access to the festival is free.

Canadian National Exhibition

Friday August 18 – Monday September 4
210 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto

It’s almost time for the city’s biggest summer celebration. Many of your favourite attractions are back, including the air show, the Farm building, the Superdogs, and so many food vendors. And back after a multi-year hiatus is the ice skating and acrobatics show, featuring the legendary Elvis Stojko. Of course the midway is also returning, including the Kids’ World area, which features child-friendly rides and tons of live performers and character meet and greets. Kids ages four and under are free while kids ages five to 13 can claim a free ticket for a limited time at the CNE’s website. Adults can also purchase advance general admission for $20 or buy your tickets, including a family pass, at the gate.

Fan Expo Canada

Thursday August 24 – Sunday August 27
Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W, Toronto

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre will be filled with celebrities, cosplay, and so many shopping opportunities at this annual celebration of all things pop culture. Dressing up is encouraged, so pick a theme for your family and then check out the Expo’s Family Zone, which will have hands-on experiences, photo ops and kid-friendly activities. Tickets start at $12 for kids, and a discounted family pack is available. Just try to grab your passes before Wednesday August 9 when prices go up.

The Bentway Block Party

250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto
Sunday August 13

Come and party under the Gardiner at one of the city’s coolest spots (that’s also pretty family-friendly). The DJs start spinning at noon, and there will be various other performers and other activities to entertain your family (and don’t forget about the now kid-accessible roller-skating track). Be sure to set aside some time to check out the Bentway’s many art installations. Food vendors will also be on site (as will the Bentway Bar), making this a party you can spend a few hours at. Access to the fun is free.