Summertime in Toronto is when the city really comes alive. And as it turns out, it’s been that way for quite some time.

Although newer additions like Taco Fest, Caribana, or even grabbing a drink on a rooftop patio are things only enjoyed by more recent Torontonians, other summertime activities like the CNE, spending a day at the beach, or taking a dip in a City pool have been around for decades. And there are the photos to prove it.

Toronto History has an archive of old photos of the city that give us a glimpse into what life was like way back in the day. And as cool as it is, it’ll also leave you wondering how people in the early 1900s survived the summer here in long dresses and full suits.

So get ready to take a step back in time with these 20 vintage photos of summertime in Toronto from the early 1900s to the 19070s.

CNE Midway – 1904

Cricket at Upper Canada College – 1908

Parkdale Canoe Club – July 1911

Kew Beach – July 1915

Boys playing in the falls at Humber River – June 1923

Pillow fight at The Police Games – July 1929

Sunnyside swimming tank – July 1929

The Whip at Hanlan’s Point – June 1930

CNE Warrior’s Parade – August 1930

• See also:
  • 25 vintage photos of Toronto in the 1960s and 1970s
  • 20 vintage photos of what Old Toronto looked like 100 years ago

Northeast corner of Macdonnell and Queen – August 1935

Sunnyside wading pool – July 1936

The back of 119 Oak Street – June 1936

Davenport Road, looking west from Howland Avenue – July 1953

Night dance at the Don Mills Shopping Centre – June 1955

Keeping cool on Painswick and Cairnside crescents – June 1968

Crowds on the CNE grounds in front of the Horticulture Building – August 1974

Scarborough softball game – August 1975

School-themed float in Canada Day parade – July 1976

Foot race at Birchmount Stadium – July 1977

Overhead view of CNE grounds – August 1972