Can Toronto Really Control Pigeons?

Good afternoon — The Gardiner repairs are suddenly ahead of schedule, Krispy Kreme is going full Hogwarts, and FIFA wants 3,000 volunteers for 2026.

Meanwhile: Air Canada flights are back, concertgoers are fuming at Rogers Stadium, and the city’s trying to put pigeons on birth control.

Let’s get into it.

THE DIGEST: 7 Handpicked Stories

🚧 Gardiner ahead of schedule: Construction on the aging expressway has been cut in half from 3 years to 1.5, with the Dufferin-to-Strachan section now set to finish by April 2026, just in time for the FIFA World Cup. Short-term gridlock remains heavy, but long-term savings could reach 22 minutes per trip.

🍩 Krispy Kreme goes wizarding: Starting Aug. 18, Krispy Kreme Canada is launching its limited-time Houses of Hogwarts Collection, with doughnuts themed after Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw, plus a surprise-filled Sorting Hat doughnut and Golden Snitch Latte.

⚽ FIFA volunteers wanted: Toronto has opened registration for 3,000 volunteer positions ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Volunteers will support fan experiences, accessibility services, media and logistics during the city’s six matches, including Canada’s first-ever men’s World Cup game on June 12, 2026.

✈️ Air Canada back in the skies: Flights have resumed at Toronto Pearson after the airline reached a tentative deal with its flight attendants’ union. The agreement ends days of disruption and marks the first step toward stabilizing operations for Canada’s largest carrier.

🌧️ Chaos at Toronto show: Fans at Rogers Stadium say Tuesday’s Chris Brown concert turned into “an absolute nightmare” after a heavy downpour left walkways slippery and post-show traffic in gridlock. Safety concerns were raised about how the venue handled the weather.

🕊️ Pigeon birth control plan: A 2022 pilot using contraceptive-laced feeders showed early promise in reducing flocks by 50%, but new data shows pigeon numbers have rebounded. Officials say inconsistent dosing and widespread public feeding are undermining the effort. The city will keep testing the program at three sites in 2025 with adjustments.

🎢 Wonderland clears the air: Viral TikToks of Leviathan “stuck” halfway up its 306-ft climb sparked safety fears, but the park says it’s actually proof the ride’s systems work. On Aug. 16, staff halted the coaster after a rider tampered with a restraint. Operators climbed up, refastened it, and the ride continued safely.

MORE YOU NEED TO KNOW

🦋 Rare butterfly: A zebra swallowtail has been spotted at High Park for the first time since 1896. The species, once common in southwestern Ontario, declined due to habitat loss and the disappearance of its host plant, Pawpaw. Experts call the sighting a “beacon of hope” amid broader butterfly declines.

🍺 Beer Store closures continue: The Beer Store will shut down 12 more Ontario locations by Oct. 19, including three in the GTA: 900A Don Mills Rd., 800 Gerrard St. E., and 3078 Don Mills Rd. (North York). Empties set to be accepted at some grocery stores starting Jan. 1, 2026.

🎪 BuskerFest returns Labour Day weekend: Toronto’s International BuskerFest for Epilepsy takes over Woodbine Park Aug. 29–Sept. 1. Expect circus acts, magicians, live music, foam parties, and a new 18+ cabaret show. Admission is by donation to Epilepsy Toronto.

LOST TORONTO:
Looking North on Bay St from Temperance St

Then: In 1929, Bay Street north of Temperance was lined with ornate low-rise buildings—Old City Hall’s clock tower dominated the skyline, flanked by Simpson’s Department Store and the General Accident Insurance Company.

Now: Today, the historic clock tower still rises in the background, but it's surrounded by towering glass skyscrapers. Only fragments of the past remain, tucked between steel and concrete giants that now define Toronto’s Financial District.

THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO: THE ‘INSIDER’ SCOOP

CNE 2025 - The CNE 2025 is back for 18 unforgettable days of rides, food, concerts, and fun. From August 15 to September 1, Exhibition Place becomes Toronto’s ultimate summer fair, complete with a massive midway, wacky snacks, and free concerts by Shawn Desman, 98 Degrees, and more.
Daily until September 1 | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Exhibition Place, 100 Princes' Blvd

Editor’s Pick! Canadian International Air Show - The 76th Canadian International Air Show roars back over Toronto’s waterfront this Labour Day weekend with jaw-dropping flight demos and sky-high thrills. Catch the legendary Snowbirds, the CF-18 Demo Team, the F-35, and more as they take to the skies in a breathtaking aerial showcase for all ages.
August 30 – September 1 | 12:00 PM – 3:40 PM
Location: Marilyn Bell Park, 1095 Lake Shore Blvd W

T.U. Jazz Fest 2025 - T.U. Jazz Fest 2025 returns to Mel Lastman Square this Labour Day weekend, spotlighting Canada’s top emerging jazz talent. Now in its 11th year, the festival offers four evenings of fresh sounds, electric performances, and an unbeatable open-air atmosphere in the heart of North York.
August 29 – September 1 | 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: Mel Lastman Square

Bark In the Park TO - Bark in the Park TO is back for four days of tail-wagging fun at Woodbine Park! This pet-centric festival features photo ops, a pet costume contest, a buzzing pet product market, thrilling Dog Lovers Day Lure Course, and high-energy stunt shows by The Ultimutts—starring dogs and cats.
August 29 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
August 30 & 31 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
September 1 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Woodbine Park

North York Food Fest - The North York Food Festival returns this Labour Day with a full-day celebration of flavours, culture, and family fun. Enjoy street food, desserts, cultural performances, bubble and fire shows, and kid-friendly crafts—all at Centerpoint Mall.
September 1 | 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Centerpoint Mall

August Home Jays Games (schedule):
⚾️ Jays vs. Twins | Aug 25 - 27
⚾️ Jays vs. Brewers | Aug 29 - 31

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VIDEO OF THE WEEK

We were invited for an EXCLUSIVE tour of one of Toronto’s oldest buildings!

Here is the link: Click here to watch

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