Summer may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop as well. This fall, Toronto will host many exciting events, some of which will be returning in full-swing for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic effectively shut down certain activities. Indeed, it’s been especially difficult for many throughout the pandemic to feel the excitement of a grand occasion and, more importantly, a sense of community with each other. These local events, however, aim to fix that.
Toronto International Festival of Authors (September 22 – October 2)
This year will mark the 43rd edition of the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA). As Canada’s largest and longest-running literary festival and charitable organization, TIFA offers festival-goers a place to connect through the art of storytelling and the written word. Taking place at Harbourfront Centre, the festival will welcome authors from around the world who write across all genres. Events range from keynote speakers and conferences, to writing workshops and book launches.
Toronto Chocolate Festival (October 2022)
After missing out completely in 2020 and being forced to offer a scaled-down version in 2021, the 17th annual Toronto Chocolate Festival will make its triumphant return this October 2022. The month-long, city-wide festival spotlights chocolate in all its delicious glory, while also showcasing the artistry behind everyone’s favourite desserts. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from tastings and cultural performances, to meet-ups with renowned chocolatiers and events like Chocolate Afternoon Tea and The Ultimate Chocolate Guide Tour.
Nuit Blanche (October 1)
Another renowned event making its return this year is Nuit Blanche. Taking place on October 1, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., the all-night celebration showcases the best of contemporary art in the city. What’s more, this year’s event will be the biggest in Nuit Blanche history, featuring works from over 150 artists and hosting exhibitions in Etobicoke, North York, and Scarborough. Fittingly, “The Space Between Us” is the theme, and the artists’ works will offer a look into ideas of connection and bridging communities, cultures, and environments.
Halloween on Church (October 31)
Held in Church Wellesley Village, Halloween on Church is a massive street party that celebrates Halloween. Six blocks of Church Street, from Wood Street to Gloucester Street, will be pedestrians-only during the event, which is sure to bring in thousands of party-goers, dressed in the spookiest, campiest, and most fabulous costumes.
Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival (November 9-20)
The 26th annual Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival will be held this November. Shining an intentional spotlight on contemporary Asian cinema, this festival features screenings of films from Asian and Asian diaspora artists. As Canada’s largest Asian film festival, Toronto Reel Asian will feature works from Asian filmmakers and industry players from around the world. Past notable guests include Simon Yam, Jus Reign, and Simu Liu.
Toronto Santa Claus Parade (November 20)
On the third Sunday of November, Santa Claus comes to the city. Perhaps Toronto’s biggest pre-holiday season event, the Toronto Santa Claus Parade attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators every year. The first Santa Claus Parade was held in 1905, and it has since grown into a large-scale event, featuring a six-kilometre parade route that includes festive floats, live performances, music, and dancing.
Cavalcade of Lights (November 26)
The Cavalcade of Lights is an annual Toronto event that takes place at the heart of the downtown core: Nathan Phillips Square. From the lighting of the Christmas tree and ice-skating to, of course, a beautiful set of fireworks illuminating the night sky, this event officially marks the beginning of the holiday season. Many gather every year to ring in the new season. The best part — free admission!
The Distillery Winter Village (Mid-November to December)Formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market, the Distillery Winter Village is one of the city’s most famous and beloved holiday-season events. 2021 marked the first year of the Winter Village’s new look and experience, following its cancellation in 2020. In addition to offering the vendors, treats, and entertainment experiences folks have come to love about the Christmas Market, the Winter Village introduced an updated and more modern event, filled with more shopping and dining opportunities for its visitors. Though details for the 2022 season have yet to be revealed, the Winter Village is expected to run from mid-November to the end of December and will still take place in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District.
Jericho Tadeo | Contributing Writer
