Amelie CameronEvery summer in Toronto, something magical happens: the city turns into one giant open-air cinema, with films flickering to life in parks, riversides, and unexpected corners.
And despite the rising temperatures, my love for these summer screenings hasn’t cooled in the slightest. Based on my experience so far, this year’s film fest lineup is shaping up to be one of the best yet.
Here’s how I’m diving into Toronto’s cinematic summer circuit.
College Park: After Hours
– Reel credit: coasttocrystal
When: August 6 and September 3, 2025
Where: College Park, 420 Yonge Street
While some summer film festivals have already come and gone, there are still a lot you can catch before the leaves start to turn. Take, for example, College Park: After Hours, which is running on the first Wednesday from June to September.
This one stands out for its chill vibe. The films aren’t overly niche or heavy (I actually caught The Bee Movie here recently), and that’s part of the appeal. They lean into fun, easygoing picks that just about anyone can enjoy without overthinking it.
What’s also nice about this film festival is the live music performances it hosts just before the big movie nights. It was nice to hear some lovely tunes from local performers like Alanna Sterling and Gavin McLeod.
Oh, there’s also a small market here that’s tucked off to the side, where local vendors sell handmade goods and drinks. I picked up some scented candles here on my last visit, and they now serve as decorations in my living room.
Overall, it’s a great mix of film, music, and local flavour. If you’re looking for something low-pressure but memorable, this one is an easy recommendation.
Movies on the River
– Photo credit: torontoadventure
When: August 29 and September 19, 2025
Where: Humber River Paddling Centre, Down the “Discovery Walks” Road, 9 Old Mill Rd, Etobicoke
Tickets: Buy here
Single kayak – $40
Tandem kayak – $80
Regular canoe – $70
Large canoe – $90
Movies on the River might just be one of the most unique film experiences I’ve ever had in Toronto. It’s not often you get to combine kayaking with cinema, but somehow it works (and not just in a gimmicky way).
The event takes place at the Humber River Paddling Centre, usually just before sunset. You arrive, get your kayak rental sorted (which is included with your ticket), and paddle out into a floating theatre setup.
There’s a screen set up near the bank, and everyone just drifts nearby, tethered to floating anchors or loosely grouped together, swaying with the water.
What’s wild is how peaceful it gets once the film starts. I barely heard any noise aside from the occasional ripples and tiny splashes, which is pretty much impossible for most other types of outdoor film setups that are close to the city.
You don’t need to be a kayaking pro to enjoy it, either. The kayaks are easy to handle, and the staff are ready to help when needed. It takes a little more effort than your usual movie night, but it’s certainly a worthwhile experience trying at least once.
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show (TOPS)
– Photo credit: topictureshow
When: June 12 to August 24, 2025
Where:
- Fort York – 250 Fort York Blvd
- Christie Pits Park – 750 Bloor St W
- Corktown Common – 155 Bayview Ave
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show is another great way to spend summer and appreciate some amazing flicks. Since it’s all free, all you need to do is show up at one of the parks, lay out a blanket, and settle in with the crowd while the film is running.
This year’s theme, When We Were Young, really got me. Their lineup consists of coming-of-age films that I feel will really resonate with Toronto’s younger crowd. I may not be in that crowd anymore, but honestly, the films are still solid.
I caught their June 12 to 17 run at Fort York and had a great time. They showed some real gems, including Romeo+Juliet and The Wizard of Oz, which ended up being one of my favourites from the week.
They’re not done yet, either. The rest of the screenings are set for July 3 to August 7 at Corktown Common and July 6 to August 24 at Christie Pits.
I won’t give away too much about the upcoming titles, but word is that Flow, a 2025 Oscar winner, is making an appearance. That alone is worth showing up for.
Evergreen Brick Works’ Free Outdoor Movie Nights
– Photo credit: evergreen_brick_works
When: Thursdays in July and August 2025
Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave
Evergreen Brick Works’ Free Outdoor Movie Nights is one of those low-key Toronto summer gems that always flies a little under the radar but has become a personal favourite of mine.
That’s because the setup here is pretty simple. There’s a big screen, some string lights overhead, and a chill setting where you’re surrounded by greenery. It feels like a little escape without ever needing to leave the city.
And what makes it feel extra fun is that the public helps pick the films through Evergreen’s Instagram. I’m really glad they allowed voting, since the 2025 lineup looks super good.
It includes some well-known titles like Moana, Wall-E, and The Lorax. With so many animated titles, it’s definitely one of the more kid-friendly options on the summer circuit.
Movies in the Park
– Photo credit: rosedalebia
When: July 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2025
Where: Ramsden Park, 1020 Yonge St & Ramsden Park Rd
Another event I’m really looking forward to is Movies in the Park at Ramsden. It has this fun, community feel to it, and they even give out free popcorn while you watch crowd-pleasers like Mamma Mia! and Mean Girls.
Since it’s held right in the park, everyone is welcome to spread out, find a comfy spot on the grass, and just enjoy the evening. There’s also a VIP section for anyone who wants to catch the movie from the best spot in the park, but there’s a little catch.
To get a shot at those seats, you need to spend $20 at any of the local vendors who’ll be on-site that night. That automatically gives you a chance to win a VIP seat through their lucky draw before the show starts.
Personally, I’m planning to give it a go. It feels good to support local businesses, and who knows, I might end up watching the movie from the best seat in the park.
Free Flicks at the Harbourfront Centre
– Reel credit: harbourfrontcentre
When: Every Tuesday from July 8 to August 26, 2025
Where: 235 Queens Quay W
Free Flicks at the Harbourfront Centre is easily one of my favourite ways to spend a Tuesday night in the summer. It’s right along the waterfront, so you get this amazing view of the lake, a nice breeze, and a lineup of solid films—all for free.
This summer, the 2025 lineup is looking great. They’re showing The Shape of Water, The Whale, Titanic, and Big Hero 6, just to name a few. It’s a decent mix of award winners and Canadian favourites, so there’s something for everyone.
However, please note that while the screenings are free, you’ll still need to sign up here to get a ticket. I figured it’s mostly to make sure the space doesn’t get too packed.
Don’t worry; the sign-up process is super simple. Just pick the movie you want to see, select how many tickets you need, and you’re all set.
Downtown Movies in the Park
– Photo credit: to_downtownwest
When: Every Wednesday from July 9 to August 13, 2025
Where: David Pecaut Square, 215 King St W
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, the Toronto Downtown West BIA is screening a free movie every Wednesday night until August.
I’m definitely planning to catch a few of them. The lineup looks great, and I’m especially looking forward to The Princess Bride. It’s one of those timeless classics that still hits the mark with every crowd, no matter the age.
They’re also showing The Wild Robot, The Martian, and The School of Rock, which makes it a pretty fun mix of adventure, sci-fi, and feel-good favourites.
On top of that, there’s a pre-show party on July 9 hosted by Todotoronto at The Pint Public House on Front Street. It starts at 6 PM and sounds like a good time.
The party includes TIFF-themed trivia, glow sticks, icebreaker games, and even a complimentary drink for the first 80 people through the door. However, unlike the films, this party has a $6.66 entry fee.
You can buy your tickets for the party here.
Movies Under the Stars 2025
– Photo credit: parcdownsviewpark
When: July 16 and 17 and August 6 and 7, 2025
Where: Downsview Park, 70 Canuck Ave, North York
Another film festival I’m excited about is Movies Under the Stars 2025 at Downsview Park. It’s completely free and takes place right by the lake, which makes it a pretty relaxing spot to catch a film once the sun goes down.
This year’s lineup is short but solid. They’re showing A Minecraft Movie in July and Captain America: Brave New World in August. Both were just released this year, so it’s pretty cool to have the chance to watch them again in such a relaxed setting.
What’s also great is that both movies will be shown in English and French. I know a few friends who will definitely appreciate the French screening, since that’s their first language.
Just a heads-up: while the event is free, you do need to book tickets in advance. The process is super easy. You just go to their website, choose the movie you want to see, and reserve tickets for up to ten people.
