While Toronto’s festival scene peaks during the summer, the city doesn’t slow down as autumn arrives. October brings a fresh lineup of activities and events that cater to all interests. From Halloween thrills to cultural celebrations and early holiday festivities, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a visit in October 2024, here’s a roundup of the top festivals and events you shouldn’t miss. And don’t forget to enhance your trip with a memorable visit to Niagara Falls with Queen Tours.
1. Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert
Kick off the spooky season with a magical fusion of cinema and live music. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra presents a unique rendition of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, performing Danny Elfman’s iconic score live in sync with the film. This enchanting experience combines stunning visuals with a captivating soundtrack, making it a must-see event for families, couples, and friends alike.
- Dates: October 18th and 19th, 2024
- Location: Roy Thomson Hall
- Showtimes:
- October 18th at 7:30 p.m.
- October 19th at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Tickets: Starting at $106
- Family-Friendly: Yes
2. Toronto Pumpkin Fest
Celebrate the essence of fall at the annual Toronto Pumpkin Fest held in Downsview Park. This four-day festival is packed with delicious food, entertaining games, and an abundance of pumpkins. It’s an ideal event for tourists looking to embrace the autumn spirit and enjoy seasonal activities.
- Dates: October 11th to 14th, 2024
- Time: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Location: Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Road
- Tickets:
- Online: $30 per person
- At the Door: $35 per person
- Family-Friendly: Yes
3. Halloween Nights of Lights 2024
Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of over 1.5 million LED and RGB lights synchronized to your favorite Halloween tunes at the Halloween Nights of Lights. This walk-through experience also features midway rides, games, pumpkin-themed treats, and free admission to Pumpkinville, showcasing 25,000 real pumpkins and hay bale sculptures. With live entertainment and stage shows, it’s an event that promises memorable moments for all ages.
- Dates: Throughout October 2024
- Location: CF Sherway Gardens
- Tickets: Starting at $15.99
- Family-Friendly: Yes
4. Toronto Halloween Show
Get ready for Halloween at the Toronto Halloween Show, your one-stop shop for all things spooky. From indoor and outdoor decorations to costumes and makeup, you’ll find everything you need to create the perfect Halloween atmosphere. The event is also a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Toronto’s Halloween culture.
- Dates: October 11th to 13th, 2024
- Location: The Warehouse Venue at Downsview Park
- Tickets: Starting at $9
- Family-Friendly: Yes
5. Legends of Horror at Casa Loma
Experience a spine-chilling adventure at Casa Loma’s Legends of Horror. This immersive theatrical event transforms the historic castle into a haunting journey filled with over 70 actors portraying classic horror scenes. Wander through 2 kilometers of tunnels and dark spaces at your own pace, and don’t miss the 3D projection on the castle’s exterior, bringing characters and walls to life in a spectacular visual display.
- Dates: October 3rd to November 2nd, 2024
- Location: Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace
- Tickets: $45 to $60
- Family-Friendly: Recommended for older children and adults
6. Pedestrian Sunday at Kensington Market
Enjoy the final Pedestrian Sunday of the season in the eclectic Kensington Market. With streets closed to cars, the neighborhood transforms into a lively festival featuring music, art, and mouth-watering food. It’s a fantastic way to spend a Sunday in October, soaking up the vibrant culture of one of Toronto’s most iconic areas.
- Date: October 27th, 2024
- Time: All day
- Location: Kensington Market
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
7. Toronto Flower Market
Don’t miss the last Toronto Flower Market of the year on October 12th, 2024. Explore a beautiful selection of Ontario-grown flowers and plants, and connect with local florists and growers. It’s a perfect opportunity to bring a touch of Toronto’s natural beauty home with you.
- Date: October 12th, 2024
- Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Location: 1001 Queen St W
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
8. Nuit Blanche
Experience Toronto’s streets and neighborhoods transformed during Nuit Blanche, the city’s annual all-night contemporary art event. With dynamic installations and performances by local and international artists, this free event invites you to explore and engage with art in public spaces.
- Date: October 5th to 6th, 2024
- Time: Sunset to sunrise
- Location: Various locations across Toronto
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
9. Art Toronto
Dive into Canada’s largest international art fair at Art Toronto. Featuring over 100 galleries from around the world, the event offers a vibrant mix of installations, exhibitions, and project spaces. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene and discover new artists.
- Dates: October 24th to 27th, 2024
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
- Tickets: Starting at $15
- Family-Friendly: Yes
Experience the Majestic Niagara Falls with Queen Tours
While exploring Toronto’s vibrant October events, consider enhancing your trip with a visit to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Just a short journey away, Niagara Falls offers stunning natural beauty and a variety of attractions that make for an unforgettable experience.
Join a Guided Tour with Queen Tours
For a convenient and enriching experience, book a Niagara Falls Tour from Toronto with Queen Tours. Enjoy comfortable transportation, expert commentary, and a curated itinerary that includes highlights like the Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, and visits to local wineries.
Opt for a Private Tour for a Personalized Adventure
If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider a Private Niagara Falls Tour. Customize your itinerary, travel at your own pace, and enjoy exclusive attention from your guide. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, a private tour offers a unique and memorable way to explore this natural wonder.
10. Second Annual Diwali Festival of Lights
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Toronto’s biggest Diwali event in Nathan Phillips Square. This two-day festival features fireworks, a laser light show, live concerts, a festive marketplace, and a delightful array of traditional Indian sweets and cuisine.
- Dates: October 26th and 27th, 2024
- Time: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Location: Nathan Phillips Square
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
11. Halloween on Church Street
Join Canada’s largest Halloween block party as The Village transforms into a vibrant street festival on October 31st. With six blocks closed to traffic, thousands of costumed revelers fill the streets, showcasing incredible creativity and spirit. It’s an unforgettable night of fun and spectacle.
- Date: October 31st, 2024
- Time: Boulevard opens at 6:30 p.m.
- Location: Church Street, from Wood Street to Gloucester Street
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes, though evening festivities may be more suitable for adults
12. Martino Manor
If you’re seeking a truly terrifying haunted house experience, Martino Manor is the place to be. This three-story Victorian manor is filled with authentic decor, live actors, animatronics, and intricately designed sets that will test your courage at every turn.
- Dates: October 4th to November 2nd, 2024 (select nights)
- Time: Evening hours (check schedule)
- Location: 7 McIntosh Ave
- Tickets: Starting at $19.99 (available at the door only)
- Family-Friendly: Recommended for older children and adults
13. Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Cheer on thousands of runners as they race through the city in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. The event brings a lively atmosphere to downtown Toronto, with spectators lining the streets to support the participants. Enjoy music, entertainment, and community spirit.
- Date: October 20th, 2024
- Time: Race begins in the morning
- Location: Downtown Toronto
- Admission: Free to watch
- Family-Friendly: Yes
14. Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland
Experience thrills and chills at Canada’s Wonderland as it transforms into Halloween Haunt. The park features seven haunted zones, hundreds of monsters roaming the grounds, and a variety of live shows like “Inferno” and “Freak Show.” In addition to the scares, enjoy your favorite rides under the night sky.
- Dates: Select nights from October to November 1st, 2024
- Location: Canada’s Wonderland
- Tickets: Prices vary (purchase online for discounts)
- Family-Friendly: Recommended for older children and adults
15. Fall Ravine Festival
Discover the natural beauty of Toronto’s ravines at the Fall Ravine Festival. This free, family-friendly event offers interactive music sessions with Pete Moss, scavenger hunts, and educational activities about local wildlife and ecosystems.
- Date: October 5th, 2024
- Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave E
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
16. Reebok Warehouse Sale
Update your wardrobe at the Reebok Warehouse Sale, where you’ll find incredible deals on men’s, women’s, and kids’ shoes and apparel. From athletic wear to accessories like backpacks and hats, it’s the perfect opportunity to snag quality items at discounted prices.
- Dates: October 10th to 14th, 2024
- Location: The International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd, Mississauga
- Hours:
- October 10th-11th: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- October 12th: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- October 13th-14th: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Admission: Free
- Family-Friendly: Yes
17. Screemers – Canada’s Scream Park
Brace yourself for a night of terror at Screemers, Canada’s ultimate scream park. With seven haunted walk-through mazes featuring over 120 live actors, unlimited rides on the Midway of Madness, and a variety of food options at the Food Truck Eatery, it’s an adrenaline-pumping experience you won’t forget.
- Dates: October 11th to November 1st, 2024 (select nights)
- Location: Assembly Park, 80 Interchange Way, Concord
- Tickets: Starting at $39.95
- Family-Friendly: Recommended for older children and adults
Conclusion
October 2024 in Toronto is packed with an incredible lineup of festivals and events that cater to all interests and ages. From spooky Halloween attractions and cultural celebrations to art fairs and community festivals, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your calendar. Enhance your visit by adding a memorable bus tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto with Queen Tours, whether you choose a guided group tour or a personalized private Niagara Falls tour experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, make the most of the season by exploring these unique and exciting events that showcase the vibrant spirit of Toronto.
