Toronto art walks and tours to get excited for this spring

Apr 23 2018, 9:30 pm

From the AGO and the Gardiner to the Daniel Faria and the Katzman Contemporary, TO is blessed with a diverse selection of galleries. However, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with art around the city, without having to keep too quiet.

Toronto has a pretty stacked calendar for art enthusiasts who are looking to soak up some culture and view work by local and international artists.

Here are some of the best art walks around town, and a couple of walking tours that take in some of the art on offer in Toronto.

Festivals

Liberty Village Art Crawl

For the sixth year in a row, the Toronto Art Crawl brings art, fashion, photography, and more to the public. The free event at 71 East Liberty Street has over 60 vendors as well as live DJs and food trucks on site.

When: June 9

Time: 11 am to 6 pm

Where: Liberty Village Park

Cost: Free admission

Riverside Art Walk

Now in its 20th year, this Queen East Arts fest is the first of the season, connecting 165 artists (with work ranging from paintings to glasswork) with customers looking for a one-off piece of art. The free two-day event at Jimmy Simpson Park and Community Centre also features community groups and food vendors.

When: June 2-3

Time: 11 am to 6 pm

Where: Jimmie Simpson Park

Cost: Free admission

Waterfront Artisan Market

Local artisans, crafters, chefs and bakers will join together at the HTO Park on the Queens Quay on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer and into the fall.

When: May 19 to October 7

Time: Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm

Where: HTO Park on the Queens Quay

Cost: Free admission

Artsfest

This 3-day arts and craft festival takes place in the historic Distillery District and sees photography, painting sculpture and more showcased over the course of the long Victoria Day weekend.

When: May 19 to 21

Time: 11 am to 6 pm

Where: Historic Distillery District

Cost: Free admission

Roncy Rocks Music and Art Fest

Local artists, makers and creators will take part in a juried art show and sale at this one-day event that sees creativity showcases along Roncesvalles Avenue. Plus, there will be live music, kids’ activities, a dog show, and a sidewalk sale.

When: June 9

Time: 10 am to 7 pm

Where: All along Roncesvalles Ave

Cost: Free admission

Walking tours

Graffiti Tour by The Tour Guys

This free 90-minute tour gives an “introduction to graffiti culture and one of the most vibrant areas for graffiti in Toronto” in the back alleys and laneways of downtown Toronto.

When: Daily starting in May, Weekends only in April and September

Time: 3:30 pm

Where: Meets at Black Bull Tavern

Admission: Free admission, pay by donation

Toronto Village of Murals (Islington)

Along Dundas, between Kipling and Islington, lie 25 fine art murals for you to peruse. An audio guide is available online for you to listen while enjoying the art. 

When: Anytime

Where: Various locations

Katie BridgesKatie Bridges

+ Arts
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