From upcoming events to revolutionary projects, check out these must-know things about Toronto and the GTA.
 
1. The CNE is Back
After a two-year hiatus, the CNE is returning to Toronto from August 29 to September 5. This year’s event will feature a nightly drone show, plus its renowned over-the-top carnival eats, live entertainment, unique competitions and of course, midway rides and games. 
 
2. The New Massey Hall
Massey Hall underwent a three-year, $184-million restoration and is now more stunning than ever. The ornate ceiling has been repaired, the stained glass windows have been restored and the stage and seats have been updated. Plus, there’s a new bar, accessible by a floating glass walkway.
 
3. 16-Course Gelato Tasting
Head to Death in Venice Gelato for a 16-course gelato tasting with a visit to the gelato lab, guided by the owner Kays Ogruce. You can book the sweet experience on Airbnb. 
 
4. The New Quayside is Coming
The new vision for Quayside will make it the world’s largest all-electric, zero-carbon community. It will include a two-acre urban forest, alongside shops, an arts venue and residences, of which 800 of them will be affordable. Construction is set to begin in 2025.
 
5. Affordable Housing
In November, Toronto adopted inclusionary zoning, which means new condos near major transit stations must now make a portion of their units affordable. More than 10,000 units are now in the works.
 
6. Hotel Bars
Hotel bars are making a comeback in Toronto with newly renovated designs and crafty cocktails. Notable ones to try? The Drake Hotel’s modern wing, The Park Hyatt’s Writers Room and The Royal York’s Library Bar.
 
7. Lighthouse Immersive
Lighthouse Immersive features the digitization of artwork masterpieces by the likes of Vincent Van Goh, Frida Kahlo and others. It’s located in the heart of Toronto and highlights dazzling projections and unforgettable art experiences not to be missed.
 
8. Union Station’s Outdoor Food Hall
Up and running 7 days a week until August 28, Union Station’s fully licensed outdoor food hall offers four food vendors, including Gus Tacos, Naansense, Souvla and Mikey’s Smash Burgers, a bar and daily events and performances. 
 
9. Condos are Going Green
Local companies like Alectric, Mitrex and Internat Energy Solutions are making the city’s condos greener by making solar panels out of everything from shingles to shades to windows. They’re helping displace tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and wrapping condos in power-producing cladding. 

10. Toronto Cider Festival 
Toronto Cider Festival is back on August 26 and 27 at Toronto Inukshuk Park by the waterfront. Choose from 100 varieties of cider, plus enjoy delicious food, interactive games and live performances. 
 
11. TIFF
From September 8 to 18, head to the Toronto International Film Festival for 11 days of international and Canadian cinema, special events featuring some of the biggest names in film, and TIFF’s industry conference. 
 
12. Taste of the Kingsway
Taste of the Kingsway is back with a three-day festival (September 9 to 11) featuring live entertainment by top local bands, delicious food from diverse street food vendors, carnival rides and games and kids activities.
 
13. The Burbs Are Where It’s At
Downtown may be bustling, but three GTA burbs are making waves. Scarborough has fostered a host of artistic talent, Brampton is set to become the newest tech mecca and Pickering is building a 40-acre entertainment multiplex with a casino, retail space, outdoor amphitheater, golf course and luxury hotel and spa.
 
14. Toronto Oktoberfest 
The three-day festival runs from September 19 to October 1 and takes place in a massive Festhalle tent and outdoor Bavarian Village. Celebrating traditional food, drink, music and dance of Bavarian culture, it’s an event not to be missed.
 
15. Smart Living in Park Place Condos
Located in Vaughan, Park Place Condos is combining state-of-the-art technology with incredible design thanks to SmartLiving. The preconstruction project will offer access to curated amenities like a fully-equipped fitness centre, bike lab, outdoor BBQ and more, with the masterplan encompassing a state-of-the-art YMCA facility, local daycares and a newly planned 9-acre park.