Things To Do in Toronto This Labour Day Long Weekend

Labour Day long weekend in Toronto is always special. For me, it’s the perfect mix of summer’s last hurrah and the excitement of September just around the corner. This year (August 30 – September 1), I’m especially excited because the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is back in full swing. If you’ve been wondering how to make the most of your time, here’s a guide from my perspective on what to do, what it will cost, and a little bonus at the end to help you relax after the fun.

Start With the CNE (The Ex)

If you ask me, no Toronto long weekend feels complete without a trip to the CNE. The atmosphere is electric — colourful lights, the smell of carnival food, kids laughing on rides, and music floating across the grounds. It’s nostalgia and excitement all wrapped into one.

What You Can Expect:

• Carnival Midway: Thrill rides like the Ring of Fire or classics like the Ferris wheel.
• Free Concerts: Live music at the Bandshell — you don’t need an extra ticket for this.
• SuperDogs & Ice Shows: My personal favourites for family-friendly fun.
• Food Adventures: From epic poutines to outrageous deep-fried treats — it’s the one weekend I don’t count calories.
• Canadian International Air Show: The grand finale over Lake Ontario. Fighter jets soaring above the city is a sight you won’t forget. Book Tickets.

How Much It Costs:

Here’s the breakdown I found useful when planning:

• General Admission: $26.55
• Youth (5–13) & Seniors (65+): $22.12
• Family Pass: $84.07 (two adults + two kids)
• Ride-All-Day Pass: $75.22
• PRESTO Savings: Admission $22.46, Ride-All-Day $42.81
• After 5 PM Deal: $13 (perfect if you just want the evening vibe!)

Tip: If you have a PRESTO card, definitely use it — the discounts are worth it.

Beyond the Fairgrounds

When I need a little break from the noise and energy of the CNE, I love taking a stroll along the Harbourfront. It’s peaceful, with sailboats dotting the lake and just enough space to sit and breathe in the late-summer air. Coronation Park is another great spot to enjoy the Air Show without being right in the crowd.

If you’re a foodie, head to Liberty Village or the Fort York area afterward — so many local cafés and patios to wind down at.

My Long Weekend Checklist

• ✔ Buy CNE tickets online ahead of time.
• ✔ Pick a day for the Air Show (I recommend Sunday for the best energy).
• ✔ Pack comfy shoes and a reusable water bottle.
• ✔ Plan for one “quiet” break — Harbourfront works wonders.
• ✔ Don’t worry about the cleaning — I’ve got something for that below!

A Fresh Start After the Weekend

Here’s the thing: long weekends are fun but exhausting. After a day at the Ex, the last thing I want is to come home and scrub my kitchen or mop the floors. That’s where TaskOpus has been a lifesaver for me.

This Labour Day, TaskOpus is offering a 25% discount on all cleaning services between August 27 and September 1. Just use the special code LABOUR25 when booking. Whether it’s a quick tidy-up or a full deep clean, they’ll have your space sparkling so you can actually relax and savour the holiday.

Because honestly, a clean home is the best way to end a busy weekend at the Ex. Choose your Home Cleaning Package Now!

So that’s my plan for Toronto’s Labour Day long weekend: a mix of excitement at the CNE, quiet lakeside moments, and letting TaskOpus handle the cleanup. However you choose to spend it, I hope you make space for joy, good food, and a little relaxation. Happy long weekend, Toronto!