The top 10 events in Toronto for September 2016

September might signal the end of summer, but it's a huge month for events in Toronto. From the end of street festival season to the rebirth of Ontario Place, to the citywide spectacle that is TIFF, the city is set to burst with activity over the next few weeks. Summer vacation might be wrapping up, but that doesn't mean the party has to end.

Here are my picks for the hottest events to experience in Toronto this September.

Fan Expo (September 1-4)
The Bat Signal has been lit up in the sky, calling all comic, sci-fi, fantasy, cosplay, anime, horror and nerds in general. It's Fan Expo 2016, and the roster is more impressive than this city has ever seen. I'm not joking. Here's a list of 13 things not to miss!

TIFF (September 8-18)
As has become customary, there's an A-list grouping of talent coming to TIFF this year. There are also a dizzying array of films worthy of your attention, not to mention virtual reality flicks as well. There's an app to help you navigate the overwhelming fest. Have fun!

Manifesto (September 9-18)
Manifesto is a 10-day festival of community and culture that effectively takes over the entire city. The Anderson Paak and Katranada show, as well as the great big free music day at Yonge-Dundas Square are definitely highlights.

Junk Food Fest (September 9-11)
Now that summer is pretty much done and you can stop thinking about your bikini body, dive into some greasy goodness. The Junk Food Fest lasts all weekend, it's free to get in, and it's brought to you by the Mac & Cheese festival team.

Veg Food Fest (September 9-11)
Featuring foods you'd never imagine are made from vegetables and other non-carnivorous substances, this weekend-long food festival at Harbourfront Centre boasts free samples, live music, cooking demonstrations, presentations, new products and duh, lots of food. Check the official site for a full list.

Cabbagetown Festival (September 10-11)
This east side festival turns 40 this year, and it's set to take over the entire neighbourhood, so the best thing to do is just get over there and walk around. Someone will be doing something interesting and you can be there to witness it. There's an 11a.m. start time both days and loads of musical performances on tap.

In/Future (September 15-25)
I'm extremely excited about this one. Ontario Place will be taken back by the people! Or more specifically the artists! Shows, music, performances, readings, lectures, installations... the list is impressive. There are even screenings inside the Cinesphere! There are many ticket types on offer, so check out their Facebook page to get excited.

TURF (September 16-18)
The Toronto Urban Roots Festival, or TURF as it's mostly commonly referred to, is one of the final outdoor music festivals of the year. All kinds of ticket types are available, all kinds of beer will be on hand, and 44 artists will perform including The Barenaked Ladies, Jimmy Eat World, Death Cab and so many more.

Toronto Beer Week (September 16-24)
To put this one in official terms, Toronto Beer Week is "a collective series of events dedicated to the celebration and advancement of the craft beer movement." Check out the full calendar to plan your bubbly week including pub crawls, a cruise, beer run, mini small batch beer fest and a pig roast. Cheers!

JFL 2016 (September 22-October 1)
There will be 42 festival acts over 10 days at the Just For Laughs comedy marathon. Trevor Noah, Roseanne Barr, Craig Robinson and Margaret Cho are just some of the headliners. Shows and parties are happening in every corner of the city, so plan accordingly to bust your gut.

Did I miss your favourite major event in September? Let us all know about it in the comments section.

Photo by Jesse Milns.

by Phil Villeneuve via blogTO