The summer may be nearly over but that does NOT mean we have to stash away our bikinis and margarita glasses and call it a day on fun just yet. With the end of summer comes some of the most enjoyable events of the season in the city”and why not make the most of the sunshine while we still can? Here are some fun things all of us should be doing in late August and September instead of complaining about the heat or wondering where to go.
Get your culture on at Artfest at the Distillery (September 2 to 5)
The historic Distillery district isn’t just a beautiful spot to be during the holidays. On Labour Day weekend it sees hundreds of Canadian artists and makers set up shop with their paintings, crafts, jewelry and more. Take advantage of this free fest to meet artists and be inspired.
Take in some Shakespeare in the Park (Sundays until Sept 4)
Take in All’s Well that Ends Well or Hamlet during the last week of August or first week of September and watch the late summer sun set on Shakespearian actors doing their thing.
Have a picnic in the park”and do it right
Get a basket, a blanket, good local food and get down with some al fresco dining like you mean it at your favourite local park. Stop by one of these 10 local stores for picnic supplies for all your resources.
Take in a dusk film at the Christie Pits Film Festival (Sundays at sunset until August 28th)
Bring a picnic blanket to Christie Pits park and join the many who camp out here at sunset for a relaxing evening of film viewing. Closing weekend gives us two nights in a row, showing Psycho and Gravity on Saturday and Sunday night respectively.
Eat your face off at the CNE (August 21 to September 7)
This summer institution may be expensive and kind of stressful but this mecca of all things deep fried is where the boldest of food trends are realized”if you’ve been saving up your cheat days for the right time and place, this spectacle of flavours is definitely it.
Go to the drive-in at the Docks
The drive-in is open year round, but summer is the time to do it. Stock up on milk duds and get your friend with a car to take you for a double-bill with a breeze under the stars. Carload Sundays are $25 per car.
Eat an epic ice cream sundae at Sweet Jesus
This place does not mess around when it comes to soft serve. Drool over their Instagram for a couple scrolls and you’ll see why there’s usually lineup here on summer nights. Get a pimped out cone or latte and ride that sugar rush all night.
Do Pedestrian Sunday (August 28 and September 25)
That is, just walk, eat, listen, see, take pictures and be there to be there. Don’t try to do your grocery shopping, vitamin shopping, etc. on this heyday of a Sunday morning”just embrace it! Go early to avoid crowds and take in this unique summer street fest that brings people together quite unlike any other in the city.
Main image via Christie Pits Film Festival
