August brings sunshine, patio vibes, and non-stop events to our historic neighborhood! This month, celebrate Indigenous culture at TO Live’s UpFRONT Festival (Aug 14–16), join The Great Beaver Quest before August 16, or catch an Italian Cinema Night at Bottega della Piadina on August 14. Craving summer treats? Enjoy sangria at The Consort Bar, an Iced Mango Latte at Au Pain Doré, or small-batch scoops at Bomba Gelato.
Ready for a refresh? Update your space at The Chesterfield Shop, pamper yourself at Mokara Spa or Bahn Thai Spa, or join Skoom Coffee’s Labour Day Run Club.
And that’s just a taste! We’ve packed this edition with even more exclusive local deals, fitness challenges, and neighbourhood spots you won’t want to miss. Keep scrolling below to discover it all, grab your sunscreen, and support local all month long!
Philatelic History of Toronto Presentation
Wednesday, August 19, 6:45pm – 9:30pm
Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Research Foundation, 10 Summerhill Avenue
Join us for an exciting evening of Toronto’s philatelic history with expert Garfield Portch at the Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Foundation!
Generously sponsored by the Vincent Graves Greene Foundation, enjoy an extensive presentation on the postal history and the history of the post office in Toronto. With early and fascinating examples of philatelic material dating back as early as 1803, the presentation will also include information on the mail that was processed at Toronto’s First Post Office, now Canada’s oldest purpose-built post office still operating, and the postal history relating to James Scott Howard, the city’s first postmaster.
Guests will also have the opportunity to learn about the amazing Greene Foundation, their research library, and their resources.
The night will also feature a raffle where guests will have a chance to win one of two original pieces of postal history that went through Toronto’s First Post Office when it was first operating, generously donated by Garfield Portch. Raffle tickets will be $10 and can be bought on site with cash only.
Proceeds from ticket sales will go to supporting operations at Toronto’s First Post Office.
Separate donations can be made to support the Vincent Graves Greene Philatelic Research Foundation by heading to their site www.greenefoundation.ca.
Pre-registration is required & spots are strictly limited!
Toronto’s First Post Office | Town of York Historical Society
260 Adelaide St E, 416-865-1833
www.TownofYork.com
Instagram: @TOs1stPO
Better Running Through Fitness Testing at Altitude Athletic Training
This spring, the running world celebrated a historic achievement when Kenyan athlete Sabastian Sawe became the first person to complete a marathon in under two hours during a record-eligible race. While performances at that level are extraordinary, they also highlight how modern endurance training has evolved beyond simply logging more kilometres. Today’s athletes increasingly rely on physiological testing to train smarter, monitor progress, and reduce the risk of injury.
That same evidence-based approach is now available locally at Altitude Athletic Training in Old Town Toronto through its comprehensive Running Performance Assessment.
The assessment combines several research-grade evaluations to provide runners with an objective picture of their fitness and performance. An InBody body composition analysis measures muscle mass and body composition, while a clinical VO₂ max test evaluates how efficiently the body utilizes oxygen during exercise—a key predictor of endurance performance. The assessment also identifies personalized training zones and ventilatory thresholds, helping runners understand exactly how hard they should train to maximize fitness while allowing adequate recovery.
In addition to cardiovascular testing, force plate technology analyzes how each leg generates force and power during movement. This can reveal strength asymmetries and biomechanical inefficiencies that may impact performance or contribute to injury risk.
Whether preparing for a first 5K, a half marathon, or chasing a new marathon personal best, objective performance testing provides valuable insights that can make training more effective and measurable.
To learn more about Altitude Athletic Training’s Running Performance Assessment, visit Altitude Athletic Training or inquire in person at our facility on Colborne Street.
Altitude Athletic Training Inc.
56 Colborne Street
416-366-3838
www.altitudeathletictraining.com
Instagram: @altitudeathletic
TO Live Presents UpFRONT Festival
Join TO Live for the UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music & Culture!
August 14-16, 2026.
This summer, Berczy Park and Scott Street will come alive with free live music, dance, storytelling, family activities, an artisan marketplace, Indigenous authors, live mural creation, and more.
Featuring performances by Drezus, Crystal Shawanda, Tom Wilson Tehohàhake Trio, Don Amero, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Adrian Sutherland, Quique Escamilla, and many more.
Whether you’re discovering a new artist, shopping the marketplace, bringing the family, or dancing under the summer sky, everyone is welcome at this celebration of Indigenous arts, music, culture, and community.
TO Live
1 Front St E, 416-366-7723
www.tolive.com
Instagram: @tolivegram
August at Omni King Edward
🍷 Sip Into Sangria Month
Celebrate the flavours of summer at The Consort Bar with our Sangria Month feature. Enjoy a specialty menu of refreshing, handcrafted sangrias available all month long—the perfect way to toast the season.
💆 Summer is Calling at Mokara Spa
Treat yourself to a little summer indulgence with 15% off body treatments, massages, and Hydrafacial services at Mokara Spa. As a special bonus, receive a complimentary Céla Crème de la Crème Hand Cream (valued at $37) with your qualifying treatment.*
Book online or call 416.863.3131 to reserve your appointment.
*Offer valid through September 21, 2026. Complimentary gift available with spa services of 60 minutes or longer. One gift per person, per visit. Cannot be combined with other offers. Terms and conditions apply.
Omni King Edward
37 King St E, 416-863-9700
www.omnihotels.com
Instagram: @omnikingedward
Summer Drinks at Au Pain Doré
Craving something refreshing and unexpected?
Strawberry Matcha – the perfect balance between the delicate, earthy notes of matcha and the sweet softness of strawberry. A refreshing, smooth, and lightly energizing drink, ideal for brightening your day.
Iced Mango Latte – a smooth espresso blended with milk and sweet mango purée, served over ice for a creamy and refreshing drink. Perfect to sip in the sun, on your break or whenever you need a gentle pick-me-up.
Offer valid for a limited time in our participating cafés.
Au Pain Doré
81 Front St E, 416-367-2738
www.atelier.aupaindore.com/en
Instagram: @aupaindorecafe
Labour Day Run Club at Skoom Coffee
Join Skoom Coffee’s run club for a social 5km run on Monday, September 7th at 9 AM. All paces and experience levels are welcome! Come meet fellow runners, get moving, and refuel together afterward.
Runners will receive 15% off their order at Skoom Coffee, so bring your friends and make a morning of it. Find us on Strava.
Skoom Coffee
197 King St E, 416-992-0547
www.skoomcoffee.com
Instragram: @skoomcoffee
One Market. Endless Flavours. Bomba Gelato.
Best enjoyed with your favourite people! We’ve been serving handcrafted, small-batch gelato in the Lower Level of the market for years, and there’s a reason people keep coming back. Whether you’re all about chocolate, our sorbetto (no milk, fruit flavours), or trying a unique flavour like Creme Brulee, or Pistachio, we’ve got a scoop waiting for you.
So if you’re heading to St. Lawrence Market this August, come hungry, say Hi, and see what everyone’s talking about.
Treat yourself.
You deserve it.
Bomba Gelato
St. Lawrence Market, South Building, Lower Level, Market St. Side
92- 95 Front St E, 647-348-9894
www.bombagelato.com
Instagram: @bombagelato
Staples Studio Patio is Back!
Take your work outdoors at Staples Studio Corktown. Whether you’re meeting clients, collaborating with your team, looking for a change of scenery, or hosting an event, our patio provides the perfect space to work, connect, and recharge.
Enjoy fresh air, productive conversations, and a workspace designed to inspire. ☀️🌿
Staples Studio
517 Richmond St E, 416-0697-2421
www.studio.staples.ca/studio/torontocorktown
Hooray For Happy Hour at St. Louis Bar & Grill
Every day, from Open to 5pm (11:30AM Monday to Friday, 12:00PM Saturday & Sunday) and 9pm to Close, come and enjoy our fantastic happy hour!
Starting at just $4, we have many delicious options to enjoy! Newest additions to our menu include the fan favourite fish & chips and Shopsy’s premium hot dogs! Thirsty? Domestic draughts, bar rail, caesars, & house wines are also on special!
St. Louis Bar & Grill
92 King St E, 416-840-0268
www.order.incentivio.com/c/stlouiswings/locations/toronto92kingst/menu
Instagram: @kinge.stlouis
Sofa by Day / Bed by Night. Discover it at The Chesterfield Shop
What we love…this new generation of sofa beds is a total game-changer for modern living… seamlessly blending style, comfort, and convenience.
By day, your sofa is great seating, and by night, effortlessly transitions with a smooth pull-out mechanism into an ultra-supportive, comfortable mattress for a perfect night’s sleep.
To match your unique decor, you can customize your piece from a wide selection of premium leathers and high-quality fabrics. Or in-stock for next-day delivery.
The absolute best part? Proudly and expertly crafted right here in Canada!
Come into 275 King St. E. and meet the best professional team in the business.
The Chesterfield Shop
275 King St E, 416-667-1150
www.thechesterfieldshop.com
Instagram:@thechesterfieldshop
More Massage. More Savings at Bahn Thai Spa
Imagine how amazing it would feel to give your body the care it deserves all month long.
Our August Massage Wellness Promotion makes it easier to prioritize relaxation, recovery, and balance with savings that grow with each visit. Enjoy 10% off your first massage, 20% off your second, and 30% off your third.
Available on all massage services with our Practitioners and Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs). Book your August appointments and create a wellness routine you’ll look forward to.
Bahn Thai Spa
136 Adelaide St E, 416-594-3406
www.bahnthaispa.com
Instagram: @bahnthaispaschool
Patio Season, Served at Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
This August, Café Nicole Bistro + Bar is celebrating the best of patio season with a fresh lineup of summer features in the heart of Old Town Toronto.
Guests can stop by for happy hour every day from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring $8 Aperol Spritz, $5 3 Speed Lager, and $5 house red, white, and sparkling wine. Appetizers are also $3 off daily from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Café Nicole is also serving a monthly feature pairing: BBQ chicken pizza with a glass of Inniskillin Riesling for $28, alongside the refreshing Cherry Lime Mule for $16. And for something sweet, guests can cool down with gelato on the patio.
Whether you’re joining us for an after-work sip, a casual summer bite, or a relaxed moment on The Esplanade, Café Nicole is a welcoming neighbourhood spot to enjoy August downtown.
Café Nicole Bistro + Bar
45 The Esplanade, 416-860-5151
www.cafenicole.ca
Instagram: @cafenicolebistro
Blue Jays Game Special at 3 Mariachis
Blue Jays Specials – Only During the Game
Elevate your game-day experience with our vibrant specials, available only while the Blue Jays games are on.
$4 tacos served with fresh, local ingredients.
$6 margaritas crafted with fresh lime juice and organic agave.
$4 shots perfect for groups looking to get the night started or to keep it going.
Whether you’re gathering with friends, enjoying a night out, or simply looking to make game day feel a little more special, this is the perfect way to try out our great food, refreshing drinks, and an energetic atmosphere all in one place.
3 Mariachis
140A The Esplanade, 416-507-1004
www.3mariachis.ca
Instagram: @3mariachis
Italian Cinema Night at Bottega della Piadina
Join us on August 14, 2026, from 6–8 PM for a special Italian movie night featuring the beloved classic *I Soliti Ignoti*. Enjoy this iconic Italian comedy while sharing an authentic piadina and a drink, all for just $20. To reserve your spot, simply leave your name through our registration form.
Come for the film, stay for the food, and experience a taste of Italian culture in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Bottega della Piadina
60 Richmond St E, 416-712-8434
www.bottegadellapiadina.com
Instagram: @bottegadellapiadina
Dita Lancier: A Brand New Line at St. Lawrence Eye Care
Dita Lancier is all handcrafted in Japan and offers a sportier and lighter look. Their eyewear is specialized for three distinct environments: Land, Sea, and Air. Dita Lancier uses high grade titanium designed for extended wear without fatigue. This brand is based in Los Angeles, California. We are are happy to have this line in store and are excited to share with everyone!
St. Lawrence Eye Care
12 Church St, 416-504-7532
www.stlawrenceeyecare.com
Instagram: @stlawrenceeyecare
Honouring Every Bond at Tails Farewell
Taking this chance to introduce our business to Old Town Toronto readers for the first time.
Many people don’t realize they have options when it comes to saying goodbye to a beloved pet. Tails Farewell is Toronto’s first dedicated pet funeral home, offering private farewell sessions, gentle aquamation (water-based cremation), and personalized memorial keepsakes in a calm and peaceful environment. Our mission is to help families honour the unconditional love and memories they shared with their companions with compassion, dignity, and care. While we hope you won’t need us anytime soon, we’re honoured to be here for our community when the time comes.
Because every bond deserves a beautiful goodbye.
Tails Farewell
115 Berkeley St, 416-943-9395
www.tailsfarewell.ca
Instagram: @TailsFarewell
Parents, Get a Head Start This August at Old Toronto Martial Arts
Give your child a head start before the school year begins, in August, before backpacks, homework and busy schedules return.
– Be first in line for our limited afterschool pickup Program
– Kickboxing fitness for moms classes. Sign up on the website to join the waitlist
– Kids, youth & Teen martial arts programs focused on confidence, discipline, and personal safety
– We offer self-defense workshops, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Karate, Muay thai kickboxing, classes for ages 5+
Whether you’re looking for a safe afterschool routine or a practical skills and fitness for yourself, we would love to welcome you to our dojo, in the heart of The Esplanade.
Old Toronto Martial Arts
154 The Esplanade, 647-761-2865
www.oldtorontomartialarts.com
Instagram: @oldtorontoma
Private Dining at Bindia Indian Bistro
Looking for a spot to host your next celebration, work event, or family gathering? Bindia Indian Bistro, located steps from St. Lawrence Market, offers a private dining room that comfortably seats up to 50 guests. The kitchen’s fusion-forward Indian menu features standouts like the tandoori-grilled Butter Chicken and warm Garlic Naan, paired with hand-shaken cocktails for the table. Reach out directly to reserve your next group booking.
Bindia Indian Bistro
16 Market St, 416-863-0000
www.bindia.ca
Instagram: @bindiaindianbistro
60th Anniversary Performance (FREE!) at Tai Ji Men
✨ A Spectacular Cultural Performance Comes to Toronto for the First Time! ✨
Hosted by Tai Ji Men (Canada) as part of the international celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, this special public-benefit performance will take place in Toronto from October 2 to 4, 2026.
Blending qigong, martial arts, and contemporary performing arts, the program offers an inspiring celebration of culture, positive energy, love, and peace. Tai Ji Men’s internationally acclaimed performances have previously been presented at renowned venues, including the Sydney Opera House in Australia.
🎟 Complimentary tickets are now available by advance reservation. Seating is limited, so please reserve early!
🎭 Performance Venues:
• October 2–3: Jane Mallett Theatre
• October 4: Bluma Appel Theatre
📞 Inquiries: 437-873-2446 / 437-875-4910
Tai Ji Men
125 King St E, 437-873-2446
www.tickets.taijimen.ca
Instagram: @energyfamily_ca
August in the Beer Garden at C’est What
C’est What’s Beer Garden is Toronto’s outdoor hidden gem. Serving up great food locally sourced from the St. Lawrence Market, Ontario Craft beer and great vibes. With live music on Thursdays and Saturdays from 5-7pm and Saturday afternoon jazz with the Louisiana Hot 4! Check out our event listing for August. Hope to see you there!
C’est What
Beer Garden: 94 The Esplanade. Main restaurant: 67 Front St E.
416-867-9499
www.cestwhat.com
Instagram: @cestwhatto
HYROX Simulation Training at 6S Fitness
6S Fitness, a functional fitness gym in downtown Toronto, is hosting a HYROX Simulation on Saturday, August 22. The event recreates full HYROX race conditions, all eight stations, real pacing, and the running-to-station transitions that trip most athletes up on race day.
It’s designed for anyone training for an upcoming HYROX event who wants to test their fitness and pacing strategy before it counts. 6S also runs ongoing HYROX training sessions every Wednesday and Sunday, led by coaches who focus on the specific demands of the sport: transitions, grip endurance, and running under fatigue.
Spots for the simulation are limited; sign up by emailing info@6sfitness.ca.
6SFitness
209 Adelaide St E, 416-518-5746
www.6sfitness.ca
Instagram: @6s.fitness
The Great Beaver Quest
Join “The Great Beaver Quest” now until August 16th you’ll have multiple chances to win gift cards to your favourite local Old Town Toronto businesses. You pick the spot, and we buy the cards!
The Quest: Find 51 beaver statues throughout our neighbourhood, each representing the nations competing on the global soccer stage, and one special beaver representing all of the nations. Each has been uniquely hand-painted by a local artist.
How to Play: Access the digital scavenger hunt below, choose “The Great Beaver Quest”, find the beavers using clues, and take on fun, simple challenges at each location. Every challenge completed earns you extra points and increases your chances of winning!
Table of Contents:
1 How To Play
2 Prizes
3 Contest Rules
4 Artist Bios & Inspiration
5 About Old Town Toronto & This Project
6 Beaver Design & Fabricator
7 Register To Bid On A Beaver
Yoga In St James Park (FREE)
Old Town Toronto’s FREE Fitness Classes in St. James Park at the Michael Comstock Pavilion take place Tuesdays in July and August, from 6 – 7pm.
Designed to get you moving and enjoying our park, these fitness classes are offered free of charge thanks to Friends of St James Park and your local business community, represented by Old Town Toronto BIA.
Please arrive 10 mins early to scan the registration/waiver QR code form using your mobile device, then show the instructor the confirmation screen.
Berczy Beats (FREE)
Join us in Berczy Park for live lunch time music Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm, July and August. Eat your lunch next to the famous “dog fountain” and enjoy this free concert.
I Heart Market Street (FREE)
Join your neighbours on Market Street for live entertainment, pop up market vendors, seating and more! Market Street (Front Street to The Esplanade) has been pedestrianized for summer 2026.
Table of Contents
Music In St James Park (FREE)
Join us Thursdays, 7-9pm, June-August at the Michael Comstock Pavilion in St. James Park for a free concert. Grab a seat at the park’s tables and chairs in front of the stage, or bring a blanket and picnic / take out for the back lawn. (All performances are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Thank you for your understanding.)
Theatre In St. James Park (FREE/PWYC)
No Ticket Required. BYO chair or blanket.
Runtime: approx 1 hour.
Free (Pay What You Can Accepted)
Dates/Times:
Sat Aug 8 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 9 at 4pm & 7pm
Sat Aug 15 at 4pm & 7pm
Sun Aug 16 at 4pm & 7pm
Hoopty-doo! Grab your glad rags, we’re putting on the Ritz!
Old Town Toronto BIA and Alumnae Theatre present Unspoken Theatre’s new, family friendly musical comedy, 1920’s Walking Around In A Dream.
The hour long live performance inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brings the Roaring Twenties jazz age alive for the 2020’s! The show has jazz classics by Cole Porter, “Fats” Waller, and others in new arrangements from the director, award-winning Declan Meagher (Disney Cruise Line).
Award-winning playwright Natalie Kaye returns to comedy, vaudeville and historical language since co-writing the Toronto Fringe 2025 hit #1 Clown Comedy With Victor & Priscilla, a zany comedy with sold out nights and rave reviews including:
“Hilarious” – THE TORONTO STAR; “side-splittingly funny” – FRINGE REVIEW UK; “bursting with theatrical joy” – PARTON & PEARL; “bravo” – ISTVAN DUGALIN; “fast & funny” -MATT YIPCHUK; “a hilarious masterclass” – SESAYA ARTS
Unspoken Theatre is celebrating our 15th year, a female-run company that has produced over 20 new Canadian plays in Toronto!
Barket Market (FREE)
Set against the historic charm of the St. Lawrence area, this Barket Market is set to be BIG with a full-day experience for pet parents.
Guests can browse a carefully selected group of vendors, participate in interactive activations, and enjoy a variety of photo opportunities throughout the space. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, bringing together community, creativity, and pet-friendly experiences in one of Toronto’s most iconic districts.
📅Saturday August 8, 2026
⏰11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍St. Lawrence Market – 93 Front St. East, Toronto
What is Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is made up of commercial and industrial property owners and their non-residential tenants who join together under a volunteer Board of Management (BIA Board) to carry out improvements and promote economic development within their designated area…(click here to continue reading.)
What are the Boundaries of Old Town Toronto?
How to Submit to This Newsletter
Do you represent a commercial property, or a business located within a commercial property, inside the boundaries of the Old Town Toronto Business Improvement Area? If you are not currently receiving our Members Newsletter (which includes the monthly submission form for Where To Support Local), please subscribe by clicking here.
Am I a Member? All commercial property owners and businesses located within them, within the Old Town Toronto BIA boundaries, are automatically members of our not-for-profit organization and are eligible to submit one entry per publication of Where To Support Local.
