Toronto Events in September 2026: The Complete Guide

September is one of the busiest months on Toronto's event calendar. With film, food, culture, music and neighbourhood festivals taking over different parts of the city, there is plenty to see and do.

If you're planning your Toronto weekends from September 10 onward, this guide highlights some of the month's major events, when they are happening and where you can grab a meal nearby.

Before heading out, check each event's official website for the latest schedules, ticket information and any last-minute changes.

TIFF Takes Over Downtown Toronto

Toronto International Film Festival — September 10–20

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) returns from September 10–20, 2026, bringing films, premieres, screenings and industry activity to downtown Toronto.

Much of the festival activity is concentrated around King Street West and the Entertainment District, making this one of the busiest parts of the city during TIFF.

Whether you're attending a screening, exploring the festival atmosphere or simply spending an evening downtown, King Street West is a natural place to build your plans around.

For TIFF visitors, Naan Kabob at 240 Queen Street West is the more convenient Naan Kabob location. It's a practical option if you're spending time around the Entertainment District and King Street West.

Check before you go: TIFF official website

TIFF's official information confirms the 2026 festival dates as September 10–20.

Neighbourhood Festivals Worth Exploring

Cabbagetown Festival — September 12–13

The Cabbagetown Festival returns September 12–13, bringing the neighbourhood to life with vendors, entertainment, food and community activities.

The festival is centred around the Cabbagetown area, making it a good choice if you want to experience one of Toronto's established neighbourhood celebrations away from the biggest downtown crowds.

For Cabbagetown, head to Naan Kabob at 691 Yonge Street. Its Yonge Street location is the closer choice for this event.

Check before you go: Cabbagetown Festival official website

Taste of the Kingsway — September 11–13

Taking place along Bloor Street West in Etobicoke from September 11–13, Taste of the Kingsway brings food, live entertainment and family-friendly activities to the neighbourhood.

It's a good option if you're looking for a more local festival atmosphere and want to explore one of Toronto's west-end communities.

Check before you go: Taste of the Kingsway official website

Culture, Community & Books

Toronto Ukrainian Festival — September 18–20

The Toronto Ukrainian Festival takes place September 18–20 in Bloor West Village.

The festival celebrates Ukrainian culture through live performances, music, dance, food, vendors and community programming. A parade and cultural performances are among the highlights, making it one of the more distinctive community festivals on Toronto's September calendar.

If you're looking for an event that combines food, culture and entertainment, this is one to add to your weekend plans.

Check before you go: Toronto Ukrainian Festival official website

The Word On The Street — September 26–27

Book lovers should save September 26–27 for The Word On The Street at David Pecaut Square, 215 King Street West.

The two-day festival is free to attend and brings together authors, publishers, booksellers, literary organisations and readers. The 2026 programme includes author sessions, discussions, workshops, children's programming and an outdoor marketplace.

The festival runs:

• Saturday, September 26: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

• Sunday, September 27: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

For The Word On The Street, Naan Kabob at 240 Queen Street West is the closer option. The restaurant is conveniently located for visitors spending the day around King Street West and the Entertainment District.

Check before you go: The Word On The Street official website

Where to Eat During Toronto's September Events

Toronto's festival calendar gives you plenty of reasons to spend a full day exploring the city. After several hours of walking, watching performances or attending screenings, finding a substantial meal can be just as important as deciding which event to attend.

For those looking for Afghan food in downtown Toronto, Naan Kabob offers halal Afghan dishes including kabobs, freshly baked naan and Qabuli rice.

Naan Kabob has two Toronto locations that are particularly relevant to the events covered in this guide:

240 Queen Street West

This location is the better choice for TIFF and The Word On The Street, both of which are centred around the King Street West and Entertainment District area.

Location: 240 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z7

691 Yonge Street

This location is the better option for Cabbagetown Festival, given its proximity to the Cabbagetown area.

Location: 691 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2B2

while its Toronto restaurant information also lists the Queen Street West location.

Plan Your September in Toronto

September 2026 has plenty happening across Toronto, from the international spotlight of TIFF to neighbourhood festivals, cultural celebrations and literary events.

If you're planning your weekends, keep these dates on your calendar:

Event schedules can change, so check the official event websites before heading out.

Grab a Meal Before or After the Event

Whether you're spending the evening at TIFF, exploring Cabbagetown Festival or browsing the stalls at The Word On The Street, a good meal can be part of the day's plan.

For Afghan food in downtown Toronto, visit Naan Kabob for freshly prepared kabobs, naan, Qabuli rice and other Afghan favourites.

Find a Naan Kabob location near your plans: View Naan Kabob locations

September is one of the best times to explore Toronto. Pick an event, check the schedule, plan your route and make a day of it.