101 FREE events and festivals in Toronto to check out this summer

Jun 21 2017, 4:39 am

Now that it’s officially summer in the 6ix, it’s time to start enjoying all of the wonderful things that the season has to offer, like food and drink festivals, outdoor concerts, street parties, and cultural events.

The only problem is, that all of these amazing events can leave your bank account feeling a little light.

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But luckily for you, we’ve tracked down the biggest free summer events happening in the city and put together a carefully curated list that will keep you having fun while also keeping your wallet full – enjoy!

Food

Adelaide Eats

  • What: The Toronto Market Co team is bringing back their 3rd annual outdoor food market in the Financial District. Located at Adelaide and University, Adelaide Eats will feature 13 local chefs, restaurants and food entrepreneurs with dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Where: Adelaide Place
  • When: Now until July 28, 11 am to 3 pm

Toronto Ribfest

  • What: If nothing says “Canada Day” to you more than a saucy rack of ribs, you’ll find no shortage at Ribfest. In addition to two stages with live music all day, perks for the kids include free KidzZone activities, a massive mobile midway and a variety of daily activities.
  • Where: Etobicoke Centennial Park, 256 Centennial Park Road
  • When: June 30 to Monday, July 3

Canada Day Picnic

  • What: Join MP Carolyn Bennett and community groups for a fun family-friendly Canada Day celebration. There’ll be live music, family activities, main floor tours and much more.
  • Where: Spadina Museum, 285 Spadina Road
  • When: July 1, 11 am to 5 pm 

Taste of Lawrence

  • What: The East end’s biggest food and cultural festival returns this summer. The annual Taste of Lawrence celebration takes place over the July 8 weekend, featuring over 130 vendors serving up local flavours and lots of family fun.
  • Where: Lawrence Avenue East, from Warden Ave to Birchmount Road
  • When: July 7 to 10

Fusion of Taste

  • What: This one-day festival will feature over 40 diverse food vendors, a food eating contest, local performances, a kid zone, buskers and much more. This year’s theme is Canada 150, so come and experience the best that Canada has to offer.
  • Where: Albion Road and Islington Ave, 2621 Islington Ave
  • When: July 9, 12 pm to 10:30 pm

Orangeville Rotary Ribfest

  • What: This July marks the 8th anniversary of this great community event, which will feature six fabulous ribbers who will be serving up thousands of mouth-watering ribs. With barbequed ribs, a beer tent, continuous live entertainment on the big stage, there’s no better way to celebrate summer. Admission is free but donations are accepted.
  • Where: Alder Street Arena, 275 Adler Street
  • When: July 14 to 16

Toronto Food Truck Festival

  • What: Returning to the Toronto Beach(es), this food truck festival takes over Woodbine Park over the civic holiday long weekend. As always, admission is free and in addition to street foods expect live-eating challenges and other entertainment on site.
  • Where: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen Street East
  • When: August 4, 5 pm to 10 pm; August 5, noon to 10 pm; August 6, noon to 8 pm; August 7, noon to 8 pm

Pickering Food Truck Festival

  • What: Friends, kids, pets are all welcome to this park turned foodie haven in mid-August. Admission is free for the weekend of outdoor eating, plus there will be a beer garden, children’s village, beer garden, and stage showcasing live entertainment.
  • Where: The Esplanade Park, 1 The Esplanade
  • When: August 11, 5 pm to 9 pm; August 12, noon to 9 pm; August 13, noon to 8 pm

Waterfront Night Market

  • What: The annual T&T Waterfront Night Market is back for another exciting run and attendees can expect the awesome outdoor culinary experience along with all the night market awesomeness at a brand new venue.
  • Where: Hearn Generating Station, 440 Unwin Ave
  • When: August 11 to 13

Taste of the Danforth

  • What: One of Toronto’s most famous summer events, The Krinos Taste of the Danforth is Canada’s largest street Festival and is back for its 24th year with plenty of Greek-style eats at this massive street festival.
  • Where: Danforth Avenue
  • When: August 11 to  13

PanAmerican Food Festival

  • What: We really are a city all about food. The fifth annual Pan American Food Festival showcases the best food products while celebrating the cultural diversity of the Americas.
  • Where: Yonge-Dundas Square
  • When: August 12 to 13

Hot & Spicy Food Festival

  • What: Savour the flavour of the south! Come and enjoy this free food festival that features Southern BBQs, brass bands, and much more.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: September 4 to 7

Vegetarian Food Festival

  • What: Local and international chefs will delight your taste buds with a lot of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: September 8 to 10

Outdoor Movies

Christie Pits Film Festival

  • What: This year, the Christie Pits Film Festival’s theme is EYES ON THE PRIZE, and will be screening films about competition and beating the odds. Locally organized, the Christie Pits Film Festival has attracted thousands to its free weekly series of outdoor films. Sundays throughout the summer, the screenings will include a mix of old and new. Although all screenings are free of charge, there is a suggested donation of $10.
  • Where: Christie Pits Park, 779 Crawford Ave West
  • When: Now until August 20

Free Flicks at Harbourfront Centre

  • What: Humpdays in the city are always a little sweeter with Free Flicks. This summer, the popular Harbourfront series will be running until the end of August and features inspiring and fun films. The free event takes place at 9 pm.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: Now until August 30

Movies in the Square

  • What: The Friends of Sorauren Park have planned another season of outdoor movies and special events this summer. The family event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month starting in June.
  • Where: Sorauren Avenue Park, 289 Sorauren Ave
  • When:  Now until September 23

CityPlace Fort York BIA Movie Night Series

  • What: CityPlace Fort York BIA will be hosting a free movie night once a month up until September.  Gather up your friends, bring your blankets/chairs and come a little early to enjoy snacks/refreshments. The summer movie lineup includes Half Baked, Ace Ventura Pet Detective, and a CityPlace pick for the final screening. 
  • Where: Canoe Landing Park, 95 Fort York Blvd
  • When: Now until September 16

City Cinema

  • What: On Tuesday nights, head downtown to the heart of Toronto for City Cinema. The outdoor screenings have limited seating, so be prepared and head down early.
  • Where: Yonge-Dundas Square
  • When: June 27 to August 29

Movie Nights in The Beach Village

  • What: Head east to The Beach Village for Movie Nights in the Park every Wednesday in July and August! This movie experience will take place in a number of beautiful parks (screenings will rotate between Kew Gardens and Ivan Forrest Gardens Park). Did we mention there’s FREE popcorn?
  • Where: Kew Gardens and Ivan Forrest Gardens Park
  • When: July 5 to August 30

Corktown Common Park

  • What: For the second year, Toronto Outdoor Picture Show will present weekly films in the beautiful park at Corktown Common, in Corktown. Just minutes from many bustling east-side Toronto neighbourhoods – Riverdale, Regent Park & the Distillery, along with others – this new neighbourhood is home to another great, urban TOPS screening series, under a city skyline that can’t be beat.
  • Where: Christie Pits Park, 779 Crawford Ave West
  • When: July 6 to July 27

Movies in the Meadow

  • What: The popular outdoor movie night program is celebrating Canada 150 this summer. The event at Downsview Park will be screening films with a Canadian connection and this summer’s lineup includes La La Land, Moana, Doctor Strange, Lego Batman, and Beauty and the Beast.
  • Where: Downsview Park
  • When: July 7 to August 25

Under The Stars – Regent Park Film Festival

  • What: The annual outdoor summer screening series takes place on Wednesday evenings. The screenings are free, and snacks will be available for sale with proceeds going towards the Regent Park Film Festival. Bring a blanket and get ready for some activities before each film.
  • Where: 585 Dundas Street East
  • When: July 12 to August 16

Sail-In Cinema

  • What: Sail-In Cinema is coming back to Toronto this summer for its seventh year. And as Sugar Beach will once again turn into the largest outdoor theatre in Toronto this August, you’ll be able to participate from both the shore and the open water thanks to the only duel-sided floating movie screen in the world!
  • Where: Sugar Beach,25 Dockside Drive
  • When: August 17 to 19

Music

TD Toronto Jazz Festival

  • What: The TD Toronto Jazz Festival has come to be recognized as one of North America’s premier jazz festival and has attracted some of the biggest names in jazz and blues. This summer, the festival will be moving to Yorkville Village, where it will play host to over 100 free concerts across 10 days (NOON-10 pm).
  • Where: Various locations
  • When: Now until  July 2

YYZ Live

  • What: 150 free live music performances at Toronto Pearson International Airport
  • Where: Pearson International Airport
  • When: June 26 to September 15

Shad

  • What: The Juno Award-winning rapper and former radio host will be giving the city a free performance this June. Toronto DJ Famous Players will set the energy levels high and open for him.
  • Where: First Canadian Place, 100 King Street West
  • When: June 28, 5:15 pm to 7 pm

The Edwards Summer Music Series

  • What: Enjoy 10 concerts by an eclectic roster of popular artists, set in the natural beauty of the gardens, rain or shine. (indoors in case of extreme weather). The concerts will take place in the courtyard adjacent to the historic barn in Edwards Gardens.
  • Where: Toronto Botanical Garden, 777 Lawrence Ave East
  • When: Every Thursday until August 31, 7 pm to 8:30 pm

TD Salsa in Toronto Festival

  • What: One of Canada’s largest Latin-themed celebrations is Toronto’s TD Salsa in Toronto Festival, which takes place over three weeks and features music, food, dance and family events.
  • Where: St. Clair Avenue West, between Winona Drive and Christie Street
  • When: July 3 to 23

Indie Fridays

  • What: Chevrolet Canada presents Indie Fridays, a free concert series featuring some of Canada’s top indie musicians.
  • Where: Yonge-Dundas Square, 1 Dundas Street East
  • When: July 7 to 28, 8 pm to 11 pm

Beaches International Jazz Festival

  • What: A festival that needs almost no introduction, the Beaches International Jazz Festival is celebrating its 29th year.
  • Where: The Beach Neighbourhood
  • When: July 7 to 30

Port Union Summer Concert Series

  • What: For the music lovers out there, there’s a free summer concert series taking place every Sunday night this month that will showcase a variety of local performers.
  • Where: 5450 Lawrence Avenue East
  • When: July 9 to 23, 7 pm

UNITY Festival

  • What: Every July, UNITY Festival celebrates hip-hop diversity in an action packed event incorporating beatbox, dance, concerts, and spoken word. There’ll be a free dance exhibition and beatbox competition and a Unity concert.
  • Where: Multiple locations
  • When: July 13 to 15
  • What: Join this arctic-bound adventure to hear the sounds of throat singers, folk musicians, and storytellers, and see films from across Canada’s vast regions of the North.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: July 21 to 23, 11 am to 10:30 pm

Beats, Breaks & Culture

  • What: Come and check out upcoming Canadian talent in hip-hop and dance music. This event will feature free shows from artists like Austra, Dead Obies and Rae Spoon.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre Concert Stage
  • When: August 18 to 20, 8 pm to 11 pm

Tim Hortons Southside Shuffle Blues & BBQ Festival

  • What: Now in its 19th year, this three-day outdoor music festival will be celebrating Canada and Ontario’s 150th anniversaries with 100% Canadian acts featuring the best of Canadian Blues. There will be free admission to the vendor village, food court, and south stages 1 and 2.
  • Where: Port Credit Memorial Park, 20 Lakeshore Road East
  • When: September 8, 5 pm to 11:30 pm; September 9, 11:30 am to 11:30 pm; September 10, 11 am to 8:30 pm

Toronto Bicycle Music Festival

  • What: This yearly, free outdoor pedal-powered concert will be taking place in and between Trinity Bellwoods and Humber Bay Park West this summer. This year’s lineup includes  Ansley Simpson,  Blokoloco and HoodedFang.
  • Where: Trinity Bellwoods Park
  • When: September 10, 12 pm to 5 pm

Art

Collectively Inspired

  • What: This weekly free art exhibition features works in a wide range of media, from artists in the resident groups at Neilson Park Creative Centre: Calligraphic Arts Guild of Toronto, Etobicoke Art Group, Etobicoke Quilters Guild, Etobicoke Rugcrafters, Handweavers & Spinners, and Humber Valley Art Club.
  • Where: Etobicoke Civic Centre Art Gallery, 399 The West Mall
  • When: Every Sunday until August 9

Street Art 2017

  • What: History hits the streets for Canada’s 150th birthday. From the end of May to the end of August keep an eye out for Mackenzie House’s street artists. Using only sidewalk chalk, this group of 7 artists will draw episodes of Toronto’s history throughout the downtown core at or near the location they occurred.
  • Where: Mackenzie House, 82 Bond Street
  • When: Now until September 1

Sarah Carlson

  • What: The Roundhouse Gallery at Steam Whistle Brewing presents SOJOURN, a solo exhibition of recent work by Sarah Carlson. The paintings in Sarah Carlson’s collection are a pictorial mix of figuration and abstraction inspired by recent travels within Canadian wild spaces.
  • Where: Steam Whistle Brewing, 255 Bremner
  • When: July 5 to 29

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition

  • What: Now in its 56th year, the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition will feature over 340 visual artists, performers, and sculptures.
  • Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West
  • When: July 14 to 16

The Annex Art Party

  • What: Toronto’s bustling Annex neighbourhood, will be showing off its artistic side with a day and night of live art creating, performances, dance, music, food and drinks.
  • Where: Centre for Social Innovation, 720 Bathurst Street
  • When: August 24, 6 pm to 11 pm

Canada Day Celebrations

Toronto Harbourfront Canada Day Weekend

  • What: If you’re looking to enjoy a Canada Day that’s rich with culture and history for the little ones, the festivities at Harbourfront Centre celebrate the creative contributions of Indigenous and new Canadians.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre; 235 Queens Quay West
    When: 
    June 30 to July 3

Canada Days at Nathan Phillips Square

  • What: Canada Days at Nathan Phillips Square will bring Canada’s rich cultural fabric to life through an incredible mix of music, dance, circus, and street arts. There will be performances from the Barenaked Ladies, Belly, Buffy Saint-Marie, Ron Sexsmith & TSO + Ron Cousins, and much more.
  • Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West
  • When: June 30 to July 3

Canada Day at Mel Lastman Square

  • What: Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday with hundreds of others at Mel Lastman Square. The event will highlight urban music and culture from Toronto, Canada, and the world through Persian funk, Indigenous hip hop and indie rock, and Afro-Latin soul. There will also be dance performances, family filled activities, and an amazing fireworks display.
  • Where: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge Street
  • When: July 1, 2 pm to 11 pm

CN Tower fireworks

  • What: Come and celebrate Canada’s 150th, with a huge firework show in the heart of downtown Toronto. The show begins at 10:30 pm with a 30-second light show, followed by five minutes of fireworks set to Canadian music that will end with another fantastic light show.
  • Where: CN Tower
  • When: July 1, 10:30 pm

Canada Day at Fort York

  • What: If you’re looking to embrace the history of Canada’s past, come and celebrate Canada Day at Fort York. Here you’ll find musket drills, tours of the fort, music, face painting, hula hooping and much more.
  • Where: Fort York Historical Site, 250 Fort York Blvd.
  • When: July 1, 10 am to 5 pm

Humber Bay Park West Celebrations

  • What: If you’re looking to dance with the kiddos to a day packed full of music, you’ll find it at Humber Bay Park West. You can expect sounds inspired by the rich cultures of the surrounding Etobicoke area and to end the day with a fireworks display.
  • Where: Humber Bay Park West, 2225 Lakeshore Blvd. West
  • When: July 1, 2 pm to 11 pm

Canada D’Eh 2017 Trivia and Karaoke

  • What: Get in the Canada 150 spirit at this amazing evening of kitschy Canadiana trivia and karaoke.
  • Where: Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen West
  • When: July 1, 7  pm to 2 am

Canada Days at Scarborough Civic Centre

  • What: If you’re looking to dance this Canada Day, make sure to head to Scarborough Civic Centre for Canada Days. This multi-stage event will feature performances by local, national and international music acts from desert blues, Taiwanese indie, and electronica to legends of reggae and South Asian hip hop that will get everyone on their feet. There will also be a family activity zone and a hospitality area offering food and beverage will be available for the public throughout the day. A spectacular fireworks finale at 10:55 pm will end the night.
  • Where: Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Drive
  • When: July 1, 2 pm to 11 pm

Canadian Hip-Hop Duo Deen Squad Performance

  • What: Viral sensation and Canadian-Muslim hip-hop duo Deen Squad will be performing at Canaday Days in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday. The influential rap duo from Ottawa combines the raw essence of urban hip-hop with the core tenets of spiritual values, breaking the stereotypes with being Muslim in the contemporary world.
  • Where: Scarborough Civic Centre Main Stage, 150 Borough Drive
  • When:  July 1, 10:10 pm to 11 pm

Amesbury Park Canada Day Celebration

  • What: You’re invited to attend the 34th Annual Amesbury Park Canada Day Celebration! Here you’ll find an exciting event lineup that’s complete with a talent search, strong man’s show, multicultural entertainment, children’s activities, plus many interesting vendors. This is going to be an event that you surely won’t want to miss.
  • Where: Amesbury Park, 1507 Lawrence Avenue West
  • When: July 1, 9 am to 10 pm

Multicultural Canada Day at Yonge-Dundas Square

  • What: The annual Multicultural Canada Day celebrations includes everything from a “Parade of Nations” and a massive singing of “O Canada,” to art, food and live performances from multicultural groups that showcase their diversity.
  • Where: Yonge-Dundas Square, 1 Dundas Street East
  • When: July 1, 12 pm to 9 pm

East York Canada Day

  • What: Come and enjoy a full day of celebrations in East York and enjoy lots of music and of course, some wicked fireworks to end the day.
  • Where: Stan Wadlow Park, 373 Cedarvale Avenue
  • When: July 1, 10:45 am to 9 pm

Pride of Canada Carousel

  • What: What could be more Canadian than spending the 150th Birthday of Canada on the Pride of Canada Carousel which has 44 unique characters portraying Canadian animals, culture, and history. There’ll also be face painting and balloon twisting activities for little ones.
  • Where: Pride of Canada Carousel, 8080 Birchmount Road
    When: July 1, 12 pm to 5 pm

True North, Strong & Free: Canadian Citizenship in Toronto

  • What: Discover the meaning and importance of Canadian citizenship on this free guided tour through downtown. The walk features engaging stories about key symbols of Canadian identity and notable figures who shaped Toronto’s diversity and built the country we know today.
  • Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West
  • When: July 1, 1:30 pm to 3 pm

Brewer’s Backyard: Lester P. Beerson Day

  • What: The Brewer’s Backyard is a fun afternoon soiree that gives you a chance to learn about, try and meet the people behind the best beer Ontario has to offer, in the casual and relaxed setting of historic Evergreen Brick Works.
  • Where: Evergreen Brickworks, 550 Bayview Avenue
  • When: July 1, 11 am to 5 pm

Canada Day at Queen’s Park

  • What: Bring the entire family to this annual Canada Day celebration where there’s something to do for everyone. Activities include music and dance performances, roaming performers, games, children’s activities, such as face-painting and arts and crafts.
  • Where: Queen’s Park, 111 Wellesley Street West
  • When: July 1, 10 am to 10 pm

Downsview Park Canada Day Festival

  • What: Come and celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, Downsview Park-style. Attendees will be able to partake in an action-packed day of festivities with rides, food, music, entertainment and of course, a grand firework display at dusk to end the day.
  • Where: Downsview Park, Downsview Park, Keele/Sheppard
  • When: July 1, 11 am to 10 pm

Canada Day at High Park

  • What: Colborne Lodge and the High Park Nature Centre will be joining M.P. Arif Virani celebrate Canada 150 in the community.
  • Where: North End of High Park at the Forest School, 11 Colborne Lodge Drive
  • When: July 1, 12 pm to 5 pm

Canada Day at Black Creek Pioneer Village

  • What: Give the little ones an interactive lesson in Canadian history at Black Creek Pioneer Village with an 1867-style Canada Day celebration. Here, you’ll find an official Citizenship ceremony, traditional games, and horse-drawn wagon rides.
  • Where: Black Creek Pioneer Village, 1000 Murray Ross Parkway
  • When: July 1 to 3, 11 am to 5 pm

Family-Friendly Events

Evergreen Brickworks Saturday Market

  • What: Come and enjoy good food from local farmers, food producers, and chefs.
  • Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview
  • When: Every Saturday of the month, July 1 to 29

Play the Parks at Trinity Square

  • What: Play the Parks is back for the 5th season and will feature free lunchtime concerts in the Downtown Yonge BIA district throughout the summer.
  • Where: Trinity Square, 19 Trinity Square
  • When: Every Tuesday, 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

Royal Bank Plaza Farmers’ MRKT

  • What: Come taste, shop and enjoy the sights and smells of warm baked breads and pastries, freshly picked produce, locally made cheeses, artisanal jams & preserves, VQA wines, freshly farmed meats, among other tasty treats at the Royal Bank Farmers’ MRKT, a downtown market focused on gourmet, high quality products.
  • Where: Royal Bank Plaza, 200 Bay Street
  • When: Every Thursday, 8 am to 6 pm

Waterfront Artisan Market

  • What: Back for its second year, the Waterfront Artisan Market will make Toronto’s waterfront come alive every Saturday from May 20 until October at HTO Park. Here you’ll get to explore a curated mix of 75 artisans, crafters, chefs and bakers. Admission is free.
  • Where: HTO Park, 339 Queens Quay West
  • When: Every Saturday, July 1 to 29

Pedestrian Sunday’s in Kensington Market

  • What: The 14th season of Pedestrian Sundays brings back one awesome way to spend your Sundays this summer. Performers, musicians, artists, and shopping, basically an awesome Sunday Funday.
  • Where: Kensington Market
  • When: Last Sunday of the Month until October

Heritage Ontario Festival

  • What: Come and celebrate the heritage, culture and traditions of Ontario through music on multiple stages, interactive exhibits, food and drink vendors, spread out all around the Ontario Place grounds.
  • Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd West
  • When: June 30 to July 3

ROM Free Admission Day

  • What: In celebration of Canada 150, the ROM is opening its doors to all visitors with free admission to the Museum’s permanent galleries and select special exhibitions. There will also be a series of live performances and activities for the entire family.
  • Where: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queens Park
  • When: July 1, 10 am to 5:30 pm

Redpath Waterfront Festival

  • What: At Redpath Waterfront Festival, you’ll find a Canada 150 Fund project written specifically for the occasion, an interactive performance by internationally-renown street artist DJ Creeasian, the plaid-filled West Coast Lumberjack Show and a large artisan market.
  • Where: Toronto Waterfront
  • When: July 1 to 3

Tuesday Night Live

  • What: Rally up your friends and family and enjoy a warm July evening listening to free entertainment all summer long at the Barry Zukerman Amphitheatre in Earl Bales Park.
  • Where: Earl Bales Park, Amphitheatre, 4169 Bathurst Street
  • When: July 4 to August 22, 7 pm to 8 pm

Yoga in St. James Park

  • What: Break up your afternoon with a free outdoor yoga class in St. James Park led by the YMCA. Classes will run every Wednesday of the month.
  • Where: St. James Park, 120 King East
  • When: July 5 to 26, 12 pm to 12:45 pm

Dancing On The Pier

  • What: Grab your dancing partner and learn to dance on the waterfront to the rhythmic beats and swinging sounds of live bands at this weekly event on Thursday evenings.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: July 6 to 27, 7 pm to 10 pm

Cultura 2017

  • What: Cultura is a free family friendly outdoor festival presenting music, art, food, and film every Friday evening in July at Mel Lastman Square. Cultura celebrates Toronto’s rich diversity featuring world-renowned musicians, tasty international street food, explosive buskers and dance, interactive art activities, and evening film screenings under the stars.
  • Where: Mel Lastman Square
  • When: July 7, 14, 21, 28

Maker Extravaganza 2017

  • What: For one weekend only, the city’s most creative people and their projects gather together at the Toronto Reference Library to share their latest creations, demonstrate their newest projects and make things together.
  • Where: Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street
  • When: July 8, 9 am to 5 pm

Oakville Children’s Festival

  • What: Families are invited to enjoy the fourth annual Oakville Children’s Festival at Oakville’s beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre which will transform into an arts and culture playground for kids of all ages. This fun-filled event will feature free live performances, activities that engage the little one’s imaginations and foster creativity. Take part in interactive building and art activities, story times, scavenger hunt, sports zone, face painting, and more.
  • Where: Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre, 2302 Bridge Road
  • When: July 9, 10 am to 4 pm

50th Anniversary of the Summer of Love Picnic

  • What: It’s been 50 years since the first Summer of Love in Toronto in 1967 and this summer’s picnic will be taking place at Trinity Bellwoods Park. This will be a coming together of intentional, conscious groups of people, everyone from musicians, dancers, artists, shamans, psychedelic groups, meditators, contact improv, dancers, yogis, singers, drummers, and anyone else who is interested in hanging with a spiritual community.
  • Where: Trinity Bellwoods Park, 790 Queen Street West
  • When: July 9, 12 pm to 6:30 pm

Night It Up! Summer Night Market

  • What: The volunteers of Power Unit Youth Organization are organizing Night it Up, a free outdoor market styled after Asian night markets. Expect authentic street food and multicultural performances.
  • Where: Markham Civic Centre, 101 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham
  • When: July 14 to 16

BollywoodMonsterMashup

  • What: Enjoy the dazzling colours, intoxicating beats, and the beautiful people designs that make up the world of Bollywood. This family-friendly event shares the elegant yet ecstatic Bollywood culture with everyone and helps bring cultures together.
  • Where: Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive
  • When: July 21 to 22

Big on Bloor Festival

  • What: A festival of arts and culture, Big on Bloor is a unique summer street fest featuring hundreds of culturally significant events, activities, displays, and exhibitions.
  • Where: Bloor Street between Dufferin and Lansdowne
  • When: July 22 to 23

Toronto International Youth Dance Festival

  • What: The Toronto International Youth Dance Festival will be taking over Nathan Phillips Square for three days this summer for a multi-cultural celebration of dance.
  • Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West
  • When: July 28 to 30

Pin + Patch Show

  • What: The Pin + Patch Show will showcase a variety of local flair designers selling their unique pins and patches all under one roof in Toronto.
  • Where: 2104 Dundas Street West
  • When: July 29, 11 am to 6 pm

Warriors’ Day Parade

  • What: The 96th Warriors’ Day Parade honouring the Toronto Garrison will take place on August 19. The event recognizes those who served and those serving today.
  • Where: Canadian National Exhibition, 210 Princes’ Blvd
  • When: August 19, 10:30 am

Buskerfest

  • What: The Toronto International Buskerfest for Epilepsy Awareness is hitting the beach this year and will be taking place at Woodbine Park.  This year you can expect a beer garden, car show, and plenty of exciting surprises.
  • Where: Woodbine Park, Coxwell Ave at Lakeshore Boulevard
  • When: September 1 to 4

Cultural Events

2167: Indigenous Life in 150 Years

  • What: Indigenous filmmakers and artists imagine Indigenous life 150 years in the future in new VR projects.
  • Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West
  • When: Now until August 13, 12 pm to 8 pm

CARICOM Flag Raising Ceremony

  • What: As part of Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival, members of the Caribbean Consular Corps will be paying tribute to Canada in celebration of Canada’s 150th anniversary with a commemorative flag raising ceremony.
  • Where: North York Centre
  • When: July 3, 12 pm to 12:30 pm

Carnival Night Market

  • What: Come see Creole (French Caribbean), Spanish, and Jamaican communities display their creativity and pay tribute to the Caribbean founders with “Rum ‘n Reggae”, music and of course, plenty of food. The event will also include a three-day exhibition of Carnival and historical artifacts at Metro Hall.
  • Where: David Pecaut Square, 215 King Street West
  • When: July 7 t0 8, 11 am to 11 pm

Anatolia Fest

  • What: Come and celebrate Turkish Culture in downtown Toronto. This free event will feature Turkish folk dance, foods, and live music.
  • Where: Dundas Square, 1 Dundas East
  • When: July 9, 11 am to 11 pm

Full Moon Celebration

  • What: This bonfire-style full moon meditation gathering will is open to everyone and is all about creating a collective community and connecting with Toronto’s beautiful souls.
  • Where: Cherry Beach, 1 Cherry Street
  • When: July 9, 9 pm to 11:59 pm

Carnival 2017 Offical Launch

  • What: The 50th Anniversary Festival Season begins with the Official Launch ceremony. This kick-off event gives the city of Toronto a taste of what’s to come in the upcoming weeks ahead. There is an array of performances by popular Caribbean music artists. It is a cultural showcase and celebration of the creative spirit of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.
  • Where: David Pecaut Square, 215 King Street West
  • When: July 11, 12 pm to 2 pm

Festival of India

  • What: Splashing some spiritual culture into the city, the 45th Annual Festival of India returns on July 16 for two days of nourishing festivities. The event will begin with a euphoric parade down world-famous Yonge Street, followed by a day of festivities for the entire family.
  • Where: Various locations throughout the city
  • When: July 15 to 16

Carnival Village

  • What: The history of Carnival will be shared with Regent Parks community with an afternoon complete with interactive participation in Carnival Art.
  • Where: Regent Park Community, 585 Dundas Street East
  • When: July 15, 10 am to 6 pm

Junior Carnival and Family Day

  • What: Come out and see the future of Carnival. Join the young producers, performers, and presenters as they put their imprint on the Festival. This will be a day filled with music and dancing and an event not to miss.
  • Where: Malvern Park, 36 Sewells Rd. & Neilson Parks, 1555 Neilson Rd.
  • When: July 22, 11 am to 8 pm

Brazilfest

  • What: Now in its 14th year, Toronto’s Brazilfest will offer its attendees the opportunity to experience authentic Brazilian performances and to enjoy Brazilian style foods.
  • Where: Earlscourt Park, 1200 Lansdowne Ave
  • When: July 23, 11 am to 10 pm

Tirgan Festival

  • What: Tirgan is a non-profit, non-religious and non-partisan cultural celebration for Iranian-Canadians with four days of music, dance, food, discussions and historical programming
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: July 27 to 30, 9 am to 11 pm

Lighting of the CN Tower

  • What: This event commemorates the emancipation of the enslavement of Africans in North America and the Caribbean islands and pays homage to the historical fight for freedom.
  • Where: CN Tower, 301 Front Street West
  • When: August 1, 7 pm to 9 pm

Kultura Filipino Arts Festival

  • What: This festival celebrates all things Filipino, and features vibrant and contemporary arts, culture, fashion, and food.
  • Where: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas Street East
  • When: August 10 to 13, 12 pm to 7 pm

Mississauga ITALIFEST

  • What: ITALFEST celebrates all that is Italian. Featuring delicious food and crafts from 40+ vendors and artisans, cultural and family-oriented activities, entertainment from local and international talent, a thriving “marketo” and much more, the festival spotlights a community rich in heritage, entertainment and family values.
  • Where: Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive
  • When: August 18 to 19, 10 am to 10:45 pm

 TAIWANFest

  • What: What began in 1990 as a way to introduce Taiwanese composers to the Canadian public is now an annual festival. This year’s theme is Kan Pai Japan.
  • Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
  • When: August 25 to 27

Scarborough Afro-Carib Fest

  • What: The 6th annual Scarborough Afro-Carib Fest will feature live musical performances, exciting entertainment from local and international artists, mouth-watering ethnic cuisine, visual arts, drum and dance workshops, kid’s zone, dance competitions, and much more! Definitely not an event to miss.
  • Where: Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Drive
  • When: August 26 to 27, 12 pm to 9 pm

Cabbagetown Festival

  • What: This family-friendly affair will feature loads of things for the kids to do, live music and entertainment, food, made in Canada merchandise, a Kids Zone, and plenty of fun events and activities.
  • Where: Carlton and Parliament Streets
  • When: September 9, 11 am to 10 pm; September 10, 11 am to 7 pm

Toronto Ukrainian Festival

  • What: A three-day entertainment experience celebrating the Ukrainian Canadian community. From music to food, check out this massive Bloor West festival.
  • Where: Bloor West Village
  • When: September 15 to 17

Roncesvalles Polish Festival

  • What: Wrap up summer by attending North America’s largest celebration of Polish culture in Toronto’s best neighbourhood. The festival will feature local and international music, fantastic cuisine from over 40 renowned restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and bistros, along Roncesvalles, and of course, lots of traditional Polish fare.
  • Where: Roncesvalles Avenue from Queen Street West to Dundas Street West
  • When: September 16 to 17
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