Things to do this weekend in Mississauga: Oct. 18 to Oct. 20

There are a ton of Halloween-themed events, cultural concerts and fall activities lighting up the weekend. If you’re looking to enjoy some time with family and friends, here’s what’s happening around the city from Oct. 18 to Oct. 20:

October 18

Festival of Arabic Music & Arts: The TRUTH

Happening at Meadowvale Theatre, Palestinian comedian Amer Zahr takes the stage with “The Truth,” offering a humorous yet heartfelt look at the Palestinian and Arab experience. Through laughter and raw honesty, Zahr’s performance sheds light on resilience and the impact of truth.

Where: 6315 Montevideo Rd.
When:  7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $40

Aleph and His Orchestra – Dance of Sands

Presented by Smart Production A & E, Aleph brings his musical revue “Dance of Sands” to the Main Auditorium, blending jazz, flamenco and oriental sounds into a mesmerizing experience after tours in Europe, Marrakesh, and Casablanca.

Where: 4141 Living Arts Dr.
When: 7:30 p.m. to 9:10 p.m.
Cost: Starts at $80.75 + applicable fees

Out of the Vault – (Sept. 26 to Dec. 15)

The Bradley Museum will host an exhibition marking the City of Mississauga’s 50th anniversary. In celebration of this milestone, the Museums of Mississauga have hidden 50 artifact markers from their historic collection throughout the city as part of the History Hunt. Starting September 26, these artifacts will be taken “out of the vault” and displayed at the museum.

Visitors are invited to explore the unique stories behind each artifact, offering a glimpse into Mississauga’s rich heritage over the past five decades.

Where: 1620 Orr Rd.
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Fall Recycling Collection Drive (Oct. 15 to Oct. 27)

In celebration of Waste Reduction Week and Circular Economy Month, the City of Mississauga, in partnership with the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority’s Partners in Project Green, is hosting a recycling collection drive. Drop off unwanted clothing, textiles and electronics at collection bins in various city facilities.

Where:

• Clarkson Community Centre
• Erin Meadows Community Centre
• Frank McKechnie Community Centre
• Huron Park Recreation Centre
• Malton Community Centre
• Meadowvale Community Centre
• Mississauga Valley Community Centre
• River Grove Community Centre
• Churchill Meadows Community Centre
• Burnhamthorpe Community Centre
• Mississauga Civic Centre
• Hazel McCallion Central Library

When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free

October 19

Celebration Scare

Get ready for a spook-tacular afternoon of  Halloween fun at Celebration Square. There will be four frightfully fun zones, with tons of activities including live storytelling, a pumpkin patch with crafts, Halloween-themed treats from porch vendors and ghostly displays for photo-ops in the Ghost Garden.

Where: 300 City Centre Dr.
When: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free

PORTICO Fall Festival

Happening at PORTICO, a community church, this fall festival promises fun for the entire family with games, drinks, salty snacks and sweet treats. There’s something for everyone, so bring along friends and family for an afternoon filled with seasonal delights.

Where: 1814 Barbertown Rd.
When: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: Free admission

Festival of Arabic Music & Arts: Sing Along

Happening at Meadowvale Theatre, this Local Concert Series invites you into an evening of melody and camaraderie, celebrating timeless Arabic classics in a vibrant, interactive experience. Join voices in a symphony of joy and nostalgia, as you sing along to irresistibly catchy classical masterpieces.

Where: 6315 Montevideo Rd.
When: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $40

The Heroic Symphony

Presented by the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra, “The Heroic Symphony” is a Mayor’s Gala concert celebrating the City of Mississauga’s 50th anniversary and the opening of the MSO’s 2024/25 season. Featuring Chopin’s first piano concerto, Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony, and Metropolis Overture by local composer Larysa Kuzmenko, this evening promises a memorable musical experience. A post-concert VIP reception with Mayor Parrish and special guests will follow the performance.

Where: 4141 Living Arts Dr.
When: 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $40

Mississauga Big Band Jazz Ensemble [Private Event]

Happening at Clarke Memorial Hall, the Mississauga Big Band Jazz Ensemble brings classic jazz to life in a private evening event.

Where: 161 Lakeshore Rd. W.
When: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Admission details not available

Downtown Community Ride

Hop on your bike and join us for a family-friendly Community Ride through Downtown Mississauga, exploring cycling-friendly roads and trails. Starting at Ashgate Park, riders can choose routes ranging from 8 km to 16 km, with refreshments provided by Toronto Pearson.

Where: 846 Rathburn Rd. W.
When: 10 a.m.
Cost: Free

Lakeshore Arts Trail

Held at the historic Small Arms Inspection Building, the Lakeshore Arts Trail celebrates the diverse artistic talent across Mississauga. This annual art show unites visual artists from various communities, offering a chance to explore and purchase original works directly from the artists.

Where: 1352 Lakeshore Rd. E.
When:

• Oct. 19— 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Oct. 20—10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: Free

October 20

Mississauga Pops: Sinatra Comes To Town

Happening at Meadowvale Theatre, the Mississauga Pops will take you on a musical journey through the hits of Frank Sinatra, featuring a talented, multiple award-winning vocalist.

Where: 6315 Montevideo Rd.
When: 2 p.m.
Cost:  $31

Kevin Phillips & The Stew

Happening at Mulligan’s Pub, Kevin Phillips & The Stew bring live music for an engaging evening of tunes and good vibes.

Where: 2458 Dundas St. W.
When: 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Admission details not available

Blippi: Join The Band Tour

Happening at the Living Arts Centre Auditorium, this children’s theatre experience brings the fun of Blippi to life, inviting families to enjoy an interactive musical adventure.

Where: 4141 Living Arts Dr.
When: 2 p.m.
Cost: Tickets starting at $57.83

Lakeview Farmers Market

Held at the picturesque Small Arms Inspection Building, this community event showcases local talent through food, art, and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore displays featuring unique trinkets and beautiful creations from local artisans.

Where: 1352 Lakeshore Rd. E.
Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Festival of Arabic Music & Arts: CAYO

Presented by Maple Arts, the Canadian Arabic Youth Orchestra brings music lovers “Bil Arabi / In Arabic,” a concert blending Western and Eastern music. This unique performance reimagines popular Western tunes in Arabic, creating a captivating cultural fusion.

Where: 4141 Living Arts Dr.
When: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $12.15