1. TIFF LIVE FROM YONGE–DUNDAS (FREE!)
Film buffs on a budget don’t have to resign themselves to lining red carpets and wandering Yorkville in hopes of a celebrity sighting thanks to this year’s free programming at Yonge–Dundas Square. Regular folk can catch free screenings (concert films run every day at noon), kids activities and special appearances. This weekend, the cast of Drew Barrymore's directorial debut Whip It, including Ellen Page, will show up for a roller derby bout in honour of the film. September 10–19. Yonge–Dundas Square, 416-968-3456, tiff.net/yds.

2. LESSONS IN UNDRESSIN’
Pick up some saucy tips and tricks at this back to school–themed burlesque show from Skin Tight Outta Sight Rebel Burlesque. Expect knee socks, pigtails and special guests like Miss Cherry Temple, Leifaroni Harmsini and Boylesque T.O.’s charmingly monikered Dick Dubois. September 12. $20. Cadillac Lounge, 1296 Queen St. W., skintightouttasight.com.

3. AMAZING RACE
Reality show enthusiasts should take a break from the armchair competing in favour of this three-hour trek through the city. Organized by local event planners 6 Degrees, teams of two race through checkpoints scattered throughout Toronto, completing tasks and solving puzzles along the way. As a reward for all this problem solving, participants can compare battle scars at the final destination: the Duke of Richmond (20 Queen St. W.). Registration required. September 13. $15. Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W., connectwith6degrees.com.

4. VEGETARIAN FOOD FAIR (FREE!)
Generally considered the largest veggie-centric foodie festival in North America, this fair has been around for 25 years—way before it was cool to ditch bacon. Confirmed vegetarians and newbies alike can check out exhibitors, cooking demos and light-hearted vegan humour with Baltimore-based author Ben Shaberman. September 11–13. Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W., 416-544-9800, veg.ca/foodfair.

5. THE LITTLE HAIR SHOP CUT-A-THON
Thinking about changing stylists or hairstyles, then consider hitting the ultra adorable Little Hair Shop in Roncesvalles to get a trim for a cause. All proceeds from Saturday’s coifs ($18–$42) are donated to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada. September 12. The Little Hair Shop, 477 Roncesvalles Ave., 416-588-5552, thelittlehairshop.com.

6. THE PIRATE AND THE PENGUIN (FREE!)
The kids have survived the first week of school and want only to veg out on the couch in front of the TV. Sneak in some literacy this weekend with a kid-friendly book launch. Toronto illustrator Patricia Storms releases her first book, The Pirate and the Penguin, a very colourful take on the classic Prince and the Pauper tale. If storytime doesn’t get ’em, the cake surely will. September 12. Yorkville Library, 22 Yorkville Ave., 416-393-7660, torontopubliclibrary.ca.

7. CABBAGETOWN FALL FESTIVAL
It’s still officially summer—and the weather’s even cooperating—but that means nothing to the Cabbagetown BIA. Starting Friday, the east end ’hood hosts its 33rd annual celebration of all things autumnal. Street performers, an indie film fest and musical offerings share the streets with square dancers and corn roasts. September 11–13. Parliament Street from Wellesley to Gerrard, cabbagetownfestival.blogspot.com.

8. IMPORTFEST
Souped-up sports cars, custom accessories and…a lingerie show? One of these things is not like the others. No matter, autophiles are sure to find something to capture their interest at this year’s ImportFest. There’s plenty of Fast and the Furious–worthy rides there for the ogling, not to mention an MC battle and live performances. September 12. $22. Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building, 255 Front St. W., importfest.com.