Welcome, Toronto adventurers! You’re tuned in to "Things to Do in Toronto" for Friday, August 22, 2025. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, get ready for the ultimate lowdown on what’s hot in the city right now.
Let’s kick things off with the feel of the city today. Toronto is positively buzzing: summer lingers, with brilliant blue skies and temperatures in the low 20s, making it perfect for exploring or lounging at the waterfront. The air quality is good, so no excuses—get outside and make the most of this lively Friday! The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), Toronto’s mega end-of-summer fair, is still in full swing, promising festival excitement and tasty treats around every corner[2]. The city’s pulse is bright and upbeat, despite some recent transit snags—earlier this morning, there was a brief TTC Line 1 disruption but service is back to normal just in time for your afternoon adventures[2].
Now, onto the top events and experiences happening around town today:
- For music lovers, the iconic My Chemical Romance brings The Black Parade to Rogers Centre tonight at 7 PM—a major live-music moment fans have been waiting for[7].
- Art and culture buffs, the Yorkville Murals Festival continues, brightening Toronto’s most luxe neighborhood with bold street art, interactive installations, and pop-up performances—perfect for a stroll and some Instagram gold[5].
- Craving a night out? Don’t miss Summer Affair 2.0, the city’s hottest summer party, kicking off at 11 PM—expect high-energy DJs, dancing, and good vibes to close out the season in style[4].
- In the mood for laughs? The Friday Night Joke Fest, a standup comedy show at The Real Jerk - Legacy, is sure to get your weekend off to a hilarious start[10].
- Families: The CNE has you covered with a petting zoo, thrilling rides, and countless food stands serving up wacky and delicious eats for all ages[3].
Switching over to local news, Mayor Olivia Chow expressed concern yesterday over insufficient federal funding for refugees, sparking citywide debate—expect to hear more on this as officials push for increased support[2]. Good news for commuters: after a rocky morning on the TTC, subway issues have cleared up, and TTC’s alternative routes responded efficiently[2]. And in the entertainment world, those iconic Oasis pop-up shops are still drawing passionate fans downtown as the band lands in Toronto for a weekend of gigs and nostalgia[8].
Looking for must-do activities? Mix your daytime with a stroll along Toronto’s vibrant Waterfront—a true local gem with scenic trails, food trucks, kayak rentals, and stunning lake views[9]. Explore the Distillery District on a historic walking tour, or people-watch in eclectic Kensington Market, where vintage shops and indie eats abound[1][6]. Don’t miss a sunset at Scarborough Bluffs if you’re up for a breathtaking view and a touch of nature[6].
Here’s a pro tip: avoid peak TTC rush hour for smoother travels, and if you’re in Kensington Market, try the churros from Pancho’s—they’re a local secret worth the detour! Did you know Toronto is North America’s most multicultural city, home to over 200 ethnicities and more than 140 languages spoken? Each neighborhood holds a whole world to discover.
Before signing off, a quick tease for tomorrow: the Oasis concert continues with another show, the Toronto Waterfront Festival launches, and open-air film screenings pop up on the Harbourfront. Make sure to join us tomorrow as we uncover new events and tips to help you navigate, savor, and celebrate Toronto. Stay curious and see you out there!