PHANTOMFEST: Open Air is a free outdoor festival taking over Toronto’s waterfront this August. With two full days of electronic music, visual art and community programming, here’s what to expect.
Returning to Leslie Lookout Park, the women-led nonprofit festival will offer hours of programming on Saturday, Aug. 29 and Sunday, Aug. 30.
The festival will showcase artists from Toronto’s underground electronic music scene alongside live art, workshops, vendors and opportunities to connect with the city’s creative community. And the best part is that there’s no admission fee – it’s free for all to experience.
What to know about PHANTOMFEST: Open Air
What is PHANTOMFEST?
PHANTOMFEST is an independently built Toronto festival created around the idea of developing an open and non-judgmental cultural space.
What can I expect at the festival?
Music will be a major part of PHANTOMFEST, with a lineup drawn from Toronto’s underground electronic music scene.
What is this year’s theme?
The 2026 theme is Phoenix Rising, representing the festival’s continued evolution from its underground roots into a permitted nonprofit event.
But despite that growth, they are still committed to maintaining “the independent spirit that built it,” according to organizers.
How is the festival funded?
PHANTOMFEST is entirely supported through donations from attendees, participants, volunteers and members of the community.
Every contribution goes directly toward keeping the festival free and maintaining an independent cultural space without a financial barrier to entry.
And that’s why it’s free to attend. So if you’re looking to let loose this weekend, a trip to Leslie Lookout Park is in order.
PHANTOMFEST: Open Air 2026
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 and Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026
Time: Noon to 11 p.m.
Where: Leslie Lookout Park — 12 Leslie St.
Cost: Free
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