Weekend activities can quickly add up in cost, but with these attractions, you won't have to worry about checking your bank account afterwards.
From DJ skate parties to a tropical oasis and "LEGO-like" city, there are endless things to enjoy for free.
Call up your friends, leave your wallet behind, and check out some of these seven free events and activities in the city this weekend.
Glide beneath the northern lights
Price: Free
When: Until February 19, 2024
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: While Toronto may not be the most ideal place to glimpse the northern lights, you can get a little taste of this celestial marvel at the Bentway Skating Trail this winter.
The icy figure-eight trail, which stretches 220 metres in length, has an enchanting art installation inspired by the aurora borealis. You can glide through arches of colourful light and imagine you're in a far-off winter wonderland.
The Bentway website
Explore a creative festival
Price: Free
When: January 19 to 28, 2024
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: You can check out "Canada's leading and largest annual design festival" this weekend without breaking the bank.
The event is taking place both online and in person at locations across the city. While some exhibitions may require tickets, many are free, and you can see all the window installations without going inside.
From talks to tours and exhibitions, the festival has endless things to do that will get your creative juices flowing. A bubble wall and uniquely-depicted pop-art subjects are among a few of the things you can expect to see.
DesignTO website
Have a groovy skate party
Price: Free
When: Jan 27, February 10 and 17, 2024, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: 550 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can take your skating experience to the next level at Evergreen Brick Works DJ Skate Nights. This new, free event lets you skate among frosty trees while listening to a DJ spinning your favourite tunes.
There are food and beverages available to purchase as well as lawn games, s'mores and fire pits on site.
You can warm up after your skate in the Après Skate Lounge.
You can bring your own skates or rent skates and helmets at the venue. The suggested rental fee is $5.
Evergreen Brick Works website
Hop on board a "streetbar"
"Streetbar" driving through Toronto at night.
Courtesy of Heineken
Price: Free
When: January 27, 2024, 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Address: Route begins at Union Station
Why You Need To Go: Forget about riding a streetcar, your commute is about to get funkier aboard this "streetbar!" Heineken Route 0.0 is a free experience that allows "Canadians to enjoy a night out on the town."
If you're of legal drinking age, you can hop aboard the streetbar at dedicated stops throughout the city. The adventure begins at Union Station and follows a "unique route through some of the city’s liveliest spots, including King West, Queen West and Parkdale."
The ride is complete with live music as well as line skip and free cover at select bars.
Heineken Canada Instagram
Roller skate through a station
Price: Free
When: Until February 4, 2024
Address: 55 Front St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Get ready to roller skate! The weather outside may be cold and snowy, but you can still enjoy roller skating indoors thanks to the Union Winter Roller Express at Union Station, presented by TD.
The experience features 5,500 square-feet of skating surface as well as a "skating trail that leads into the carriageway tunnel, animated with lights for a fun retro vibe."
You can enjoy free skate rentals, free lessons and Union Beats DJ skate nights on Fridays. There are also exclusive Beats & Boogie 19+ Skate nights, immersive activities, treats from the Snack Bar and more.
Toronto Union website
Get a taste of the tropics
Price: Free
Address: 160 Gerrard St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're craving an escape from the cold, you may want to head to Allan Gardens Conservatory. The indoor botanical garden features five greenhouses brimming with lush plants.
You can wander through colourful orchids, seasonal flowers and more while breathing in the fresh smell of flowers. Areas include the Arid House which is home to "a large display of unusual cacti and succulents" as well as the Tropical House which will transport you to another country.
Currently, the Palm House and indoor public washrooms are closed due to a restoration project.
Allan Gardens Conservatory website
Skate through a "LEGO-like winter city"
Price: Free
When: Select dates until March 2024
Address: 229 Richmond St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Lace up those skates! You can have a totally unique experience at the newly-opened WinterViews. The activation features a sparkling ice rink, cozy cabins and more, and it's as if you've stepped into a "LEGO-like winter city."
While some activities do cost money, the skating is free to enjoy. You can glide around the synthetic ice rink and take in the frosty views of the CN Tower. Complimentary rentals are available and you can enjoy music and disco lighting during evening skate parties.
The Back Country Lodge is filled with tasty treats and while they aren't free, they may be worth parting with some cash for.
WinterViews website
So, whether you're looking for a funky skate party or relaxing walk through tropical plants, these free things to do in Toronto will let you and your wallet enjoy the weekend to the fullest. There's no need to stay at home in order to save some cash!
Rending of the skating rink.
Rendering of the cabins.
