The Word On The Street Festival stands as Canada’s largest free outdoor book and magazine festival, offering an extraordinary weekend celebration of Indigenous and Canadian storytelling in the heart of Toronto. Scheduled for September 27-28, 2025, at David Pecaut Square, this 36th annual festival represents a unique opportunity for budget-conscious families, literature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers to immerse themselves in a vibrant literary marketplace completely free of charge.
This remarkable festival transforms downtown Toronto into a literary paradise, featuring multiple stages of all-ages programming, dedicated children’s activities, and writers’ workshops that extend beyond traditional craft instruction. Located at the accessible David Pecaut Square (215 King Street West), the festival runs 11 AM-5 PM both days with no registration required. Attendees can explore an extensive marketplace of Canadian and Indigenous publications, participate in educational workshops led by established authors, and enjoy continuous entertainment across multiple performance stages.
The festival’s 36-year history and recognition as one of Toronto’s Best Local Festivals demonstrates its excellence in promoting literary culture while maintaining complete accessibility for all community members.
Fun Facts
- Canada’s largest free outdoor book and magazine festival with 36 years of literary celebration
- Winner of Toronto Star Readers Choice Awards for Best Local Festival in both 2022 and 2024
- Features dedicated programming celebrating both Indigenous and Canadian storytelling traditions
- Optional Eventbrite registration provides complimentary audiobook from sponsor Libro.FM
- Located steps from two subway stops and major streetcar routes for maximum accessibility
Summary
The Word On The Street Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Canada’s literary landscape while connecting with like-minded community members. The festival’s accessibility, both in terms of location and cost, ensures that financial constraints need not prevent participation in this celebration of storytelling and literary culture.
For more information: toronto.thewordonthestreet.ca/event-directory/annual-festival/
