The first week of September is always full of excitement in the city. From the glitz and glamour of Toronto’s biggest film festival, to art exhibit openings, to squeezing in some street festivals and other outdoor fun before the summer weather goes away, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this week’s Toronto Best Bets.
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CaribbeanTales International Film Festival
CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF) celebrates the talents of filmmakers of Caribbean and African heritage. This year’s theme is HOME, described as “a dynamic exploration of self-care, healing and preserving of the Caribbean traditions through the lens of home and sanctuary.” Browse the films screening this year, and take in vibrant, powerful and vulnerable stories. More info.
When: September 4-15
Where: Various venues
Courtesy of the artist.
Otherworld
This new exhibition uncovers Canada’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting repercussions. Otherworld is the first major solo museum exhibition by acclaimed artist Camille Turner, known for examining Black history in Canada’s national narrative. In this exhibit, Turner’s afronautic research methodology immerses audiences in a non-linear journey that transcends space-time boundaries. More info.
When: Opens September 4
Where: Art Museum at the University of Toronto
Photo by Connie Tsang
TIFF
Are you red carpet ready? The Toronto International Film Festival kicks off this week! Celebrate the best in cinema with film premieres, superstar appearances, and plenty of free fun along King Street West, which will become a pedestrian-only zone between Peter St. and University Ave from Thursday to Sunday. In case you missed it, be sure to check out our list of the top 20 films we can’t wait to see at TIFF—some tickets are still available. More info.
When: September 5-15
Where: King Street W and nearby venues
Twilight in Concert
Twilight fans—don’t miss this unforgettable night of live music. Relive the magic of the famed vampire romance saga with Twilight in Concert, a live, cinematic experience coming to Toronto this week. Illuminated by 1000 candles, The FILMharmonique Orchestra will perform Twilight’s enchanting score in sync with the original film, which will be presented on a massive cinema screen. Reignite your nostalgia under the glow of candlelight. More info.
When: September 6
Where: Meridian Hall
Photo by Alexandra Hong and William Pemulis
Art Spin Bike Tour & Wet Sounds
Up for an active and artful adventure this weekend? The Art Spin bike tour is a unique, one-time art experience that takes audiences around the Earlscourt neighbourhood, where they will take in multiple art projects and performances along the way. End the day with a dip in the pool at the Ontario premiere of Wet Sounds: a unique underwater sound installation. More info.
When: September 7
Where: Earlscourt Park Gazebo
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Hard Feelings Mental Health Pop-Up Market
Connect with a community passionate about mental health at this pop-up market. Hard Feelings is a nonprofit registered charity dedicated to reducing barriers and increasing access to mental health resources. Visit their storefront this Saturday for a pop-up market featuring local vendors with products focused on mental health and wellbeing, and learn more about resources available to you in Toronto. More info.
When: September 7
Where: 353 Church Street
Photo by Alexei Malakhov
Cabbagetown Festival
Another beloved street festival is taking place this weekend, with free outdoor fun for all ages. The Cabbagetown Festival will feature more than 250 vendors, DJs, live music, street performers, artisan stalls and shops, food trucks, pop-up patios and restaurants, games, Kids Zone, a closing parade and more. What better way to celebrate this lively, diverse neighbourhood than a massive street party? More info.
When: September 7-8
Where: Parliament Street from Gerrard to Wellesley & Carlton Street from Parliament to Ontario
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Heather O’Neill: The Capital of Dreams
The TPL’s Salon Series is always a delight—free evenings with authors and fellow literature lovers, discussing new books and sharing big ideas. This week, don’t miss Heather O’Neill in conversation with Emma Donoghue about O’Neill’s latest novel, The Capital of Dreams, a dark fairytale of survival and betrayal. Followed by a Q&A and book signing, this is a lovely way to engage with local book lovers. More info.
When: September 9
Where: North York Central Library Concourse
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