Big Ticket Events Guide – Toronto 2026

FIFA World Cup 2026 in Toronto

The FIFA World Cup is the world’s most-watched single sporting event, and 2026 marks the first time Canada will co-host the men’s World Cup, alongside the U.S. and Mexico. Toronto will host six matches, making it a focal point of global attention. This moment is not just a milestone for Canadian soccer, but also an opportunity for Toronto to showcase itself on the world stage, drawing visitors from every continent.

Canada’s Opening Match, scheduled for June 12, is already a historic occasion. For the first time, Canada’s men’s national team will play on home soil in a World Cup, igniting national pride and creating an unforgettable moment for fans. The match will be more than just sport, it will symbolize decades of growth in Canadian soccer and set the tone for a month-long celebration across the city.

In addition to this highly anticipated kickoff, five additional group-stage matches will unfold throughout June. Each game brings its own influx of fans, media, and energy to Toronto, ensuring that the city experiences continuous excitement and activity over several weeks. These matches will transform the city into a global gathering place, where international supporters mingle with local fans in an atmosphere of unity and celebration.

Toronto will also host an electrifying Round of 32 match on July 2, marking the start of knockout-stage drama. This match guarantees high stakes, as one team’s journey will end while another advances closer to World Cup glory. With tension and passion at their peak, Toronto will become the backdrop to one of the tournament’s most unforgettable moments, attracting global media attention and driving even greater demand from fans.

BMO Field, the heart of Toronto’s World Cup experience, is undergoing a $150 million renovation to meet FIFA standards and enhance the fan experience. The upgrades include expanding capacity to approximately 45,000 seats, modernizing facilities, boosting Wi-Fi connectivity, and strengthening broadcast infrastructure. These investments will not only deliver a world-class venue for the tournament but also leave a lasting legacy for Canadian soccer long after 2026.

Beyond the stadium, the excitement will extend across the city through the FIFA Fan Festival™. Running from June 11 to July 19 at Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway, the festival will give locals and visitors a place to gather and celebrate. Fans can expect giant screens broadcasting matches live, ensuring no one misses a moment of the action.

Cultural performances and food vendors will showcase Toronto’s diversity, turning the festival into a celebration of both global and local culture. From live music to authentic cuisine, the event will highlight the city’s unique identity and give visitors a deeper appreciation of what Toronto has to offer.

The festival will also feature interactive installations and family-friendly experiences, making it accessible to fans of all ages. Whether it’s soccer-themed games, immersive exhibits, or simply enjoying the communal atmosphere, the Fan Festival will ensure that everyone — even those without match tickets — can feel part of the World Cup spirit.

The economic impact of the World Cup is projected to be immense. Toronto anticipates welcoming over 300,000 out-of-town visitors, which is expected to generate around $393 million in GDP and create more than 3,500 new jobs locally. Combined with Vancouver’s matches, the Canadian contribution to the 2026 World Cup could surpass $1.2 billion in economic activity, leaving a substantial footprint on the national economy.

For hosts in the short-term rental and hospitality space, this represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Demand will surge not only for accommodations but also for high-quality service, amenities, and unique guest experiences. Property managers and hospitality providers should begin planning now — from pricing strategies to expanded capacity, staffing, and enhanced guest offerings — to meet the elevated expectations of global visitors and maximize the potential of this historic event.

WNBA Launch: The Toronto Tempo’s Inaugural Season

2026 also brings another milestone—Canada’s first-ever WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo. Owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, with celebrity partners Serena Williams and Lilly Singh.
This marks a historic moment. Not only for Toronto women’s sports, but for Canadian engagement with the world’s premier women’s basketball league. Expect local excitement, sold-out games, media buzz, and a surge in sports-related tourism.
The Tempo’s home venue is set to be Coca-Cola Coliseum (capacity ~8,500). This venue is located at an exhibition place and is walking distance from many of our properties! Looking for accommodation to see the Tempo this season? CLICK HERE and we will find you a place close by!

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026

TIFF remains one of the world’s most important film festivals. Held annually in early September, it brings global celebrities, premieres, industry professionals, and media attention to downtown Toronto.
With 2026 already anticipating heavy international traffic due to the World Cup, TIFF will likely see even higher attendance and greater media coverage. At HSG, we are used to preparing for higher-than-usual demand in early September. We offer early bookings with premium pricing during TIFF. We have lots of experience working with TIFF movie goers, directors, staff and journalists and look forward to hosting them each year.

Toronto’s Year-Round Sports Scene

Toronto is one of the few cities in North America where the sports calendar never slows down. With powerhouse franchises competing in both winter and summer leagues, the city maintains a constant buzz of energy that fuels tourism, entertainment, and hospitality demand. Whether it’s hockey and basketball in the colder months or baseball and soccer in the summer sun, Toronto’s teams draw fans from across Canada and beyond, making the city a year-round destination for live sports.

When winter arrives, Toronto’s focus shifts to the Maple Leafs and Raptors, who both play out of the bustling Scotiabank Arena in the heart of downtown. The Leafs, one of hockey’s most historic franchises, command a devoted fan base and pack the arena every night, creating waves of demand for nearby restaurants, bars, and accommodations. The Raptors, meanwhile, have turned basketball into a Canadian passion, with sellout crowds and the iconic Jurassic Park fan zone amplifying the spectacle. Together, these two franchises make winter in Toronto synonymous with world-class sports entertainment.

As the weather warms, the Blue Jays and Toronto FC take center stage, making summer just as exciting as winter. The Blue Jays, Canada’s only Major League Baseball team, fill the Rogers Centre with fans from across the country and the U.S., creating a vibrant summer atmosphere. Toronto FC, the city’s Major League Soccer club, has also built a passionate following at BMO Field, where matches bring together local supporters and international visitors alike. With baseball running almost daily throughout the summer and soccer adding an electric, global dimension to the calendar, Toronto offers sports fans constant reasons to visit — driving demand for accommodations, dining, and entertainment throughout the season.

With such strong franchises across multiple sports, Toronto is uniquely positioned to dominate headlines year-round. Each team has made strides in recent years, and 2026 could mark an especially thrilling chapter for the city. There is a real possibility that all of Toronto’s major teams could make the postseason in the same year, an outcome that would electrify fans and generate massive demand across the hospitality sector. For visitors and locals alike, Toronto’s blend of winter and summer sports ensures the city’s reputation as one of North America’s premier sports destinations.

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy (IndyCar) in Markham

One of the GTA’s signature motorsports weekends is moving in 2026. The formerly Honda Indy Toronto will relocate to downtown Markham, becoming the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy under a new five-year agreement.
Although not strictly within city limits, this still provides close-to-home action for racing fans—and continues a motorsport legacy dating back decades. Anticipate local fans, families, and visitors converging on Markham neighborhoods to soak in the speed and spectacle.

Confirmed Concerts in Toronto in 2026

Halsey’s Back to Badlands Tour will celebrate the 10-year anniversary of her debut album Badlands, a record that helped launch her career into the global spotlight. Toronto fans have shown enormous enthusiasm, with the History venue selling out almost immediately and prompting multiple nights to be added, running January 9–11, 2026. These intimate shows promise to be some of the most in-demand tickets of the year.

British post-punk band Shame will bring their raw energy to Toronto on January 23, 2026, as part of their North American Tour. Performing at the Phoenix Concert Theatre, the band will showcase music from their latest album Cutthroat, which has been praised for its intensity and edge. Known for their dynamic live performances, Shame’s stop in Toronto is expected to draw both longtime fans and new listeners eager for their high-energy sound.

Neko Case, one of indie rock’s most distinctive voices, is also confirmed to perform at Massey Hall in January 2026 as part of her North American Tour. While the specific date is still pending, Toronto audiences can expect a powerful, genre-blending performance from an artist known for her commanding stage presence and acclaimed songwriting. Massey Hall’s storied acoustics make it a fitting venue for her deeply atmospheric sound.

Legendary singer-songwriter Billy Joel will finally take the stage at Rogers Centre on March 14, 2026, after postponing the show due to medical reasons. Known for timeless hits like Piano Man and New York State of Mind, Joel remains one of the most celebrated live performers in music. His Toronto concert will be a stadium-scale event, drawing fans from across Canada eager to see one of the greats in action.
Pop icon Ariana Grande is also expected to bring The Eternal Sunshine Tour to Toronto during the summer of 2026. While the venue and dates have yet to be officially announced, her North American run from June 6 to August 23 makes a Toronto stop highly likely. Given her history of sold-out arena tours, anticipation is already building, and fans are preparing for a dazzling production filled with her signature vocals and choreography.

While the concert calendar is not yet comprehensive, these headline acts give a preview into the high-profile music coming to town in 2026.

Business Conferences & Cultural Events in 2026

The AfriCanada Economic Summit will take place on March 26, 2026, at the Ontario Investment and Trade Centre. This summit brings together business leaders, investors, and policymakers focused on strengthening economic ties between Canada and Africa. It serves as a platform for cross-continental collaboration, highlighting trade, innovation, and sustainable growth opportunities.

The International Can-Africa Business Impact Conference is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at the Toronto Grand Convention Centre. This event emphasizes business development, investment, and knowledge exchange between Canadian and African markets. With a focus on measurable impact, it will attract entrepreneurs, executives, and industry experts looking to expand global partnerships.

The Change Leadership Conference returns on May 27, 2026, offering a hybrid format for both in-person and virtual attendees. Known for tackling the challenges of innovation, disruption, and organizational transformation, this event will attract leaders across sectors. Its accessible format ensures participation from a global audience, reinforcing Toronto’s role as a hub for thought leadership.

The Auto Finance Canada Conference is set for February 10, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. This specialized event gathers professionals from the automotive and financial sectors to explore trends in consumer financing, technology, and regulatory change. It remains one of the key touchpoints for networking in Canada’s auto finance industry.

The Canadian Staffing Summit will be held on April 15, 2026, at the One King West Hotel. Focused on the staffing, HR, and recruitment sectors, this summit provides insights into workforce trends, talent management, and the future of work. Attendees can expect both expert panels and practical workshops tailored to an evolving employment landscape.

On June 19, 2026, the International Conference on Healthcare & Social Work will take place at Toronto Metropolitan University. This academic and professional gathering brings together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore solutions for modern challenges in healthcare delivery and social work. Its downtown location makes it accessible to a wide range of international participants.

The Global Synergy Summit (GSS26) is scheduled for July 3, 2026, in Etobicoke. Known for fostering collaboration across industries, GSS26 will spotlight innovation, technology, and international business growth. With a diverse roster of speakers and networking opportunities, it promises to be one of the year’s standout professional gatherings.

In addition to these business-focused events, Toronto’s cultural calendar remains packed with annual highlights. Pride Toronto will once again bring vibrant celebrations to the city each June, while Caribana continues to attract global visitors with its parades, music, and Caribbean culture. Winter months feature Winterlicious, Toronto’s popular culinary festival, offering dining experiences across hundreds of restaurants. Together, these recurring cultural touchstones ensure Toronto’s event scene stays lively and globally relevant year-round.

Why 2026 Is Shaping Up to Be a Landmark Year

Several large-scale, confirmed events elevate Toronto’s 2026 into a standout year:

• FIFA World Cup: set to inject unprecedented global tourism and visibility.
• Toronto Tempo: launches women’s professional basketball in Canada.
• High-profile concerts: as well as business conferences, and cultural festivals diversify the year’s offerings.
• Lots of overlap—mid-year festivals, the CNE, TIFF, etc. will create sustained demand across the Toronto market.

For hosts and businesses, this convergence demands strategic planning around pricing, staffing, guest experience, and supply chain. At HSG, we are excited to welcome many new and returning guests and look forward to delivering the best to both of them while ensuring our owners that their property is in good hands.

Final Note: Staying Informed

We’re committed to keeping property owners and guests ahead of the curve as we move toward 2026. Confirmed events will evolve and new ones will emerge regularly. We will deliver updates through our monthly newsletter, and all updates will be posted promptly on our blog as announcements are made.