With so much happening all the time in and around Toronto, it can be hard to keep up with when the best celebrations are taking place.
That’s why we’re here to help.
We’ve compiled all coolest festivals and celebrations in the city, when and where they’re taking place, and everything you need to know to stay prepared before you go eat, drink and play your way through Toronto.
So, pull out your finest festival fits out of the back of the closet and get your calendars ready — there’s a lot going on in Toronto this season.
Luminato Festival Toronto (June 4 — 22)
From June 4 to 22, Luminato Festival will “transform the people, places and possibilities of Toronto with extraordinary art experience.”
“Every June we present bold, playful, and of the moment art for all to enjoy,” the festival says.
The theme this year is “DAY:NIGHT” and looks at how we “inhabit” the city in a 24-hour period of time. Exhibits featured include the world premiere of Rainbow Dreams by Hiromi Tango.
In the world of theatre, you can also watch the Toronto premiere of “Red Like Fruit” by Hannah Moscovitch.
For a full list of the festivals 2025 programming, you can visit the website.
Address: Various locations
Do West Fest (June 6 — 8)
Do West Fest is coming to the city this June and takes place across 16 blocks of downtown Toronto on Dundas Street West from Lansdowne Avenue to Shaw Street.
Known as the city’s “official start to summer,” there will be more than 200 local vendors will be featured and over 20 licensed patios will be open.
You can also expect live performances at multiple stages including Montreal-based afro-beats artist KAR33M on the Luluaworld stage and Fanclubwallet on the Transmit stage.
Do West Fest will run from 6 to 11 p.m. on June 6; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on June 7; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 8. And don’t worry about paying to get in — admission is free.
Address: Dundas St. W. from Lansdowne Ave. to Shaw. St.
Taste of North York (June 6 — 8)
From June 6 to 8, the Taste of North York community and food festival will take over Mel Lastman Square.
Now in its third year, the festival is dedicated to “celebrating everything that makes North York such a special place to live.”
Hosted by NeighbourLink North York, there will be more than 22 hours of performances with a highlight on the area’s diverse cultural groups including the Chinese, Korean, Persian, Latin Ukrainian, Caribbean, Tamil, Japanese, Vietnamese and Filipino communities.
Address: Mel Lastman Square at 5100 Yonge St.
The Lakeshore Village Grilled Cheese Festival (June 7)
As Ontario’s “largest celebration of grilled cheese sandwiches,” The Lakeshore Village Grilled Cheese Festival draws in more than 40,000 guests from South Etobicoke and the GTA for its one day street celebration.
The festival features live music, family fun zones, dog shows, shopping, a Great Lakes Brewery Garden and of course, lots of grilled cheese.
Located along Lakeshore Boulevard West from Islington Avenue to Second Street, the festival will even have a challenger zone where competitors will be offering up their take on the “best” grilled cheese.
Address: Lakeshore Boulevard West from Islington Avenue to Second Street.
Toronto Comic Arts Festival (June 7 — 8)
This two-day celebration in downtown Toronto is considered to be “among the premier comic arts festivals in the world.”
The festival is free to attend and will take place at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Mattamy Athletic Centre and the Courtyard Downtown Marriott from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 7 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 8.
Exhibitors include Faith Erin Hicks, Kate Beaton, Ned Wenlock and Anna Meyer.
Address: Metropolitan University’s Mattamy Athletic Centre at 50 Carlton St. and Courtyard Downtown Marriott at 475 Yonge St.
Pinoy Fiesta (June 7 — 8)
For the first time, Pinoy Fiesta will be a two-day celebration as it marks its 15th anniversary this year.
The free festival celebrates Filipino culture and will have food, entertainment and a special appearance from Kapuso star Max Collins.
“This isn’t just a fiesta — it’s a celebration of culture, heritage and community like no other,” Pinoy Fiesta says.
Address: Albert Campbell Square at 150 Borough Dr.
Music in the Park (June 11 – July 16)
This free summer concert series brings together an “incredible mix of emerging and established Toronto musicians” including Jesse Daly, Rory Lavelle and Julie Chyurlia.
You’ll also be able to shop from community businesses and grab a bite to eat from local food vendors while you’re there.
“Bring your friends, pack a picnic and settle in for a night of great music under the gazebo,” Exhibition Place states on its website.
Address: Centennial Park at 256 Centennial Park Rd.
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show (June 12 – Aug. 24)
You can cuddle up under the stars at one of Toronto’s many beautiful parks to watch a free feature film at the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show this summer.
Now in its 15th year, programming began on June 12 and run until Aug. 24. Their coming of age “When We Were Young” theme will feature films including “The Wizard of Oz,” “Clueless,” “Dazed and Confused,” “Challengers” and take place at Christie Pits Park, Corktown Commons and Fort York National Historic Site.
Address: Various locations
DESIFEST (June 14)
Now in its 19th year, “Canada’s largest South Asian music festival”, DESIFEST, is coming to Sankofa Square on June 14.
The celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and will showcase Canada’s independent South Asian music community. There will also be more than 20 food vendors offering everything from traditional flavours to modern fusion.
“From music to food to shared experiences, DESIFEST is a place to belong — a movement that continues to shape what it means to be Canadian,” according to the festival.
Address: Sankofa Square at 1 Dundas St. E.
Taste of Little Italy (June 13 — 15)
As one of Toronto’s “most anticipated” summer street festivals, Taste of Little Italy will run during Father’s Day weekend on College Street between Bathurst Street and Shaw Street.
New to the festival this year will be the College Street and Shaw Street main stage that will feature “top artists,” including American Idol season 20 finalist Nicolina Bozzo. There will also be a new food truck festival as part of the celebration.
Address: College Street between Bathurst Street and Shaw Street.
Toronto Beaches Rib & Beer Festival (June 13 — 15)
There’s nothing like ribs washed down with an ice-cold brew. Coming June 13 to 15 at Woodbine Park, the Toronto Beaches Rib & Beer Festival will bring you on a “journey through the world of barbecue, filled with finger-lickin’ fun.”
Admission is $2 per person and will run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on June 13, noon to 10 p.m. on June 14 and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival (June 14 — 15)
Organized by the Toronto Chinese Business Association in collaboration with GWN Dragon Boat, this festival will welcome teams to Toronto’s Centre Island to race.
The Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival will also have more than 80 local artists, along with heritage performances during the free celebration that draws in more than 65,000 visitors per year.
Address: Centre Island
Island Eats (June 14 — 15)
Island Eats is known as Toronto’s “largest food and travel show” and takes place at Mel Lastman Square with free admission.
There will be activities and entertainment, along with “exotic cuisine prepared by gourmet Caribbean chefs” from more than three dozen food and beverage pavilions.
Address: Mel Lastman Square at 5100 Yonge St.
Pride Toronto 2025 (June)
Pride Toronto runs throughout the month of June and culminates in a festival weekend from June 26 to 29.
For the first time, Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQ+ festival will feature a DJ headliner, Rebecca Black, to open the festival weekend. A new Thursday Central Stage event called Lewdline: LATINEO has also been added this year on June 26.
Classic events like the Drag Ball will take place on June 28 and the Pride Parade will march on June 29.
Address: Various locations
Union Summer (June 25 – Aug. 10)
This 47-day outdoor festival takes place at Canada’s largest transit hub – Union Station. From June 25 to Aug. 10, Union Summer will host free live performances and food vendors at its summer market celebration at the Front Street plaza.
Now in its eighth and “most exciting season,” this year offers a lineup “as diverse and vibrant as the city itself while transforming Front Street into a joyful community patio,” according to Lawrence Zucker, CEO of Osmington Inc., the retail developer of Union Station.
“Whether you’re commuting, exploring the city or just out for a meal, Union Summer is the place to be,” Zucker says.
Address: Union Station at 65 Front Street West
ICFF and Lavazza IncluCity Festival (June 27 — July 20)
Coming under the stars at Toronto’s Distillery District, the ICFF and Lavazza IncluCity Festival promises a “show-stopping edition” featuring an “unmissable lineup by everyone’s favourite aperitivo; tasting experiences on the iconic festival couches.”
The guest of honour this year will be none other than Academy Award winning actress Susan Sarandon and the Canadian premiere of “Juliet and Romeo” by Timothy Scott Bogart will also be presented during the festival.
You can find the full lineup and purchase tickets to IncluCity online.
Address: Distillery District at 55 Mill St.
Taste of Asia (June 27 — 29)
As “North America’s largest outdoor Asian festival,” Taste of Asia will be a three-day celebration of “harmony, cuisine and culture.”
The festival will take place on the streets of Kennedy Road and Steeles Avenue in Markham and has more than 200,000 visitors annually. There will be more than 150 booths for food and local business.
“This festival is a must-attend for anyone looking to explore incredible food, vibrant performances and the creativity of local entrepreneurs,” Taste of Asia says.
Address: Kennedy Road and Steeles Avenue in Markham
Toronto Waterfront Festival (June 28 — 29)
To “celebrate the start of summer” you can tour the fleet of historic tall ships at the city’s waterfront and even sail on Canada’s largest one.
The Toronto Waterfront Festival will include live entertainment, interactive activities, food and “tons of nautical fun.” You can purchase your ticket to the festival online.
Address: Sugar Beach at 11 Dockside Dr.
Spring Into Spice (June 28)
Taking place at Steam Whistle Brewery located at 255 Bremner Blvd., Step Into Spice is Canada’s “first ethnic food and wine festival.”
Now in its fourth year, there will be more than 40 food and wine vendors, live DJs and wine seminars.
“Spring Into Spice is your time to explore, discover and build new narratives around food and wine,” the festival says.
If you’re thinking about springing into spice, you can purchase your tickets online.
Address: Steam Whistle Brewery at 255 Bremner Blvd.
Taste of Ghana Toronto Food Festival (June 28)
The Taste of Ghana Toronto Food Festival is about “sharing the flavours and culture of Ghana with our community.”
The celebration will take place at 123 Garrat Blvd. and be even “bigger and better” this year.
For a day of “taste, rhythm and connection” you can purchase your ticket to Taste of Ghana online.
Address: 123 Garratt Blvd.
Canada Day (July 1)
The City of Toronto hosts various events to celebrate Canada Day including firework displays and live performances.
This year’s programming will be announced in mid-June online, the city confirmed to Toronto.com. So keep an eye on its website for 2025’s celebrations.
Address: Various locations
Toronto Fringe Festival (July 2 — 13)
As Ontario’s “largest performing arts festival,” this celebration doesn’t have a curated lineup — all performances are chosen by lottery or on a first-come-first-served basis.
On sale June 4, all revenue from tickets purchased is returned directly to the artist. The Toronto Fringe Festival’s hub will be located at Soulpepper Theatre and around the Distillery District.
Address: Soulpepper Theatre at 50 Tank House Lane and Distillery District at 55 Mill St.
Berczy Beats (July 2 – Aug. 27)
For some lunch time music this summer, you can head to Berczy Park on Wednesdays in July and Aug. to enjoy live performances at this 3,606 square metre space. The lineup will include concerts from Alessandro Montelli, Chinyi C, Seu, Natasha Meister, Peach Luffe and more.
“Eat your lunch next to the famous ‘dog fountain’ and enjoy this free concert,” Old Town Toronto Businesss Improvement Area states on its website.
Address: Berczy Park at 35 Wellington Street East
Dancing on the Square (July 2 – Aug. 27)
If you’re looking to dance a little this summer, you could check out “Toronto’s favourite outdoor dance event” that takes place every Wednesday in July and August. Dancing on the Square will feature live bands and numerous styles of movement.
“From salsa to swing, soca to line dancing – grab a friend and join us for a fun-filled evening of dancing and live music under the open sky,” Harbourfront Centre states on its website.
Address: Harbourfront Centre at 235 Queens Quay West
Movie Nights at Evergreen Brick Works (July 3 – August 28)
This celebration is another opportunity to catch some films under the stars this summer. Every Thursday in July and August, you can watch movies like “The Land Before Time,” “The Lorax,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Madagascar” at Evergreen Brick Works.
Movies start at 7:30 p.m. but if you show up any time after 3:30 p.m., you could also enjoy the weekly neighbourhood block party that will be held at this spot with food, lawn games, scavenger hunts and more.
Address: Evergreen Brick Works at 550 Bayview Avenue
Taste of Lawrence (July 4 — 6)
This celebration is known as “Scarborough’s largest street festival” and will be returning for its 21st edition this July.
This free festival, hosted by the Wexford BIA, will have more than 150 street vendors, live entertainment on two stages, midway rides, workshops for kids and more.
Address: Lawrence Avenue East between Warden Avenue and Birchmount Road.
Fun Philippines Toronto (July 4 — 6)
The “best” of Filipino culture “comes alive” with street food, music, dancing and more at Fun Philippines Toronto.
Taking place at Harbourfront Centre, the celebration will take place from July 4 to 6.
“Don’t miss Toronto’s ultimate Filipino festival experience at Canada’s waterfront community,” Fun Philippines Toronto says.
Address: Harbourfront Centre at 235 Queens Quay W.
Taste of the Middle East (July 4 — 6)
Taste of Middle East takes place in Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square and celebrates “Arabic music, art and heritage.”
Now in its eighth year, the festival will have food vendors and live entertainment to keep you busy while you celebrate.
“Enjoy three days of live performances, delicious food, dance and shopping,” the festival says.
Although the celebration has free admission, you can reserve your spot in advance online.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Afrofest (July 4 – 6)
Now in its 37th year, Afrofest is known as the “largest free African music festival in North America.” The celebration will present multicultural events and initiatives that celebrate “the beauty and diversity of African cultural heritage” with over 55 performances.
The lineup will focus on both local and international artists including Shina Peters, Kidum Kibido & Bodaboda, Dicko Fils, Kevin Florez and more.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen Street East
Beaches International Jazz Festival (July 4 — 27)
The Beaches International Jazz Festival, now in its 37th year, is a “world-class event and one of North America’s top summer music festivals,” according to artistic director, Jay Cleary.
“It celebrates Toronto’s vibrant diversity and community spirit with something for every music lover,” Cleary says.
The free celebration takes place at multiple venues including Woodbine Park, Jimmie Simpson Park and Queen Street East and will offer jazz, funk, salsa, blues, disco, indie, hip hop, ska, rock and more.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Summerlicious (July 4 — 20)
Hosted by the City of Toronto, Summerlicious will run July 4 to 20 and will offer a three-course prix fixe menu at more than 200 restaurants in the city.
“Summer is the perfect time to indulge your senses and tantalize your tastebuds,” according to the City of Toronto.
With more information still to be released, keep your eyes peeled for which restaurants will be included in this year’s celebration.
Address: Various locations
Salsa on St Clair (July 5 — 6)
This two-day free “fiesta” is recognized as “Canada’s hottest salsa party and will run on St. Clair Avenue West between Winona Road and Christie Street.
“Salsa on St. Clair is the only festival where people do more than just eat and watch entertainment — they take part in non-stop dancing in the streets,” the festival says.
While you’re there, you’ll be able to catch performances from from TallBeat, DJ icePink, Conexión Latina and Bachata Swing Toronto.
Address: St. Clair Avenue West between Winona Road and Christie Street.
Open Canvas Music and Arts Festival (July 5 – 6)
This festival will have two stages with over 20 acts and live murals at Toronto’s Trillium Park. The celebration will run July 5 and 6 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and feature performances from Patrick Holland, Ladji, Young Teesh, Sonic Griot and more.
You can grab a free ticket to the festival online.
Address: Trillium Park at 955 Lake Shore Boulevard West
Downtown Movies in the Park (July 9 – Aug. 13)
To continue the Toronto International Film Festival’s 50th anniversary celebration this summer, you can catch a free film across from the TIFF Lightbox on Wednesday evenings from July 9 to Aug. 13.
Presented by the Toronto Downtown West Business Improvement Area in partnership with TIFF, movies include “School of Rock,” “The Princess Bride,” “The Wild Robot” and more.
Address: David Pecaut Square at 215 King Street West
Regent Park Film Festival (July 9, 16, 23 and 25)
The Regent Park Film Festival is bringing their “Under the Stars” programming to two Toronto parks. You can catch a movie at Regent Park on July 9, 16 or 23 at Regent Park on Dundas Street East or on July 25 at Milliken Park in Scarborough.
“From a pitch-perfect look through a teenage girl’s watercolour-tinted glasses to a director’s debut ode to coming of age in the late 2000s, we’ve got four films about the pursuit of belonging to share with you under the stars,” the festival states on its social media.
Address: Various locations
Salsa on the Beach (July 11 — 13)
From July 11 to 13 at Woodbine Park you can join in on Salsa on the Beach for free, as part of the Beaches International Jazz Festival.
“Celebrating the diversity of nations, Woodbine Park transforms into a dance floor featuring energetic Latin melodies of Salsa, Merengue and Cumbia,” according to the festival.
There will also be food trucks and a beer garden, if you get hungry or thirsty from all that dancing.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (July 11 — 13)
This free celebration is Canada’s “largest and longest-running fair” with more than 400 artists and 170,000 visitors annually.
Now in its 64th year, the Toronto Outdoor Art Show (TOAF) will take place at Nathan Phillips Square offering visitors the opportunity to peruse hundreds of artists and original works.
“Canada is present and pulsing in the heart of TOAF with artists representing the country from coast to coast,” says Anahita Azrahimi, executive and creative director of the festival.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Dance on Yonge (July 11 — 13)
Taking place at Mel Lastman Square, Dance on Yonge is a “spectacle of artistry and culture” in the heart of North York.
You can expect three “exhilarating” days of social dancing, “all-star” performances and competitions, along with interactive workshops, games and food at this free festival.
Address: Mel Lastman Square at 5100 Yonge St.
Chariot Fest (July 12 — 13)
Formerly known as the Festival of India, Chariot Fest will bring an artisan bazaar, cooking demos, live music, dance performances and seminars to its celebration.
The free festival will take place on Centre Island with its parade on July 12 happening on Yonge Street and Edward Street.
There will also be a 12-hour Kirtan as a pre-festival to Chariot at the Hare Krishna Temple at 123 Avenue Rd. on July 11 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: Centre Island and Yonge Street and Edward Street.
Mixto Festival (July 12 – 13)
This music festival in July will bring together “communities, cultures and contemporary experiences in a uniquely celebratory format,” according to Mixto. The lineup includes live performances from Bia Ferreira, Brasa, Frente Cumbiero and many more.
“Mixto is the representation of all the elements of diversity in our city, and our community of artists and revellers,” the festival states on its website.
Address: Trillium Park at 955 Lake Shore Boulevard West
Guild Festival Theatre (July & Aug.)
This live play experience will take over the majestic Greek Theatre at Guild Park and Gardens for some drama under the stars.
Their 2025 programming feature a comedy spy thriller called “The 39 Steps,” based on an Alfred Hitchcock classic and adapted by Patrick Barlow. It will run from July 17 to Aug. 3. The lineup will also include a world premiere inspired by “Hamlet” called “Heratio” by Genevieve Adam, which will run from Aug. 7 to Aug. 24.
General admission tickets for the plays range from $22.50 to $27.50. You can buy tickets to catch a show at this marvellous spot online.
Address: Guild Park and Gardens at 201 Guildwood Parkway
Pan-American Food and Music Festival (July 18 — 20)
The Pan-American Food and Music Festival will kick off at Nathan Phillips Square from July 18 to 20.
Now in its 13th year, the celebration is known as “Canada’s largest annual festival celebrating the rich diversity of cuisine, music and art in the Western Hemisphere.”
“Panam Fest supports the cultural identity among Canadians and the 41 other countries of the North, Central, South America and the Caribbean,” the festival says.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto (July 18 – July 20)
The 37th edition of this annual motorsport event at Toronto’s Exhibition Place is set to be a “legendary downtown summer festival” that will feature nine races, interactive entertainment, food trucks beer gardens and more.
You can purchase a ticket to the event online.
Address: Exhibition Place at 100 Princes’ Boulevard
Festival of South Asia (July 19 — 20)
Now in its 23rd year, Festival of South Asia takes place at the Gerrard India Bazaar and will have food, drinks and entertainment.
Hailed as the “largest two-day South Asian street festival in North America,” the free celebration is a multicultural experience of the tastes, sounds and sights of South Asia.
Address: Gerrard India Bazaar at 1426 Gerrard St. E.
BIG on Bloor (July 19 — 20)
After a record smashing turnout last year, BIG on Bloor is back for an “in-person pedestrian takeover of the car-free Bloordale.”
Celebrating arts and culture, the free festival will take place on Bloor Street between Dufferin Street and Lansdowne Avenue and will feature outdoor murals, window displays, public installations and more.
Address: Bloor Street between Dufferin Street and Lansdowne Avenue.
BrazilFest (July 19 — 20)
As the “biggest Brazilian festival in Canada,” this experience will bring you an “unforgettable celebration of Brazilian music, dance and tradition.”
There will be more than 50 vendors and exhibitors, along with more than 20 performances, and takes place at Earlscourt Park in Toronto.
“Immerse yourself in a world of rhythmic beats, vibrant colours and rich culture,” the free festival says.
Address: Earlscourt Park at 1200 Lansdowne Ave.
Taste of Vietnam (July 24 — 26)
The fifth edition of Taste of Vietnam will take over Nathan Phillips Square this July.
“We’re transforming Nathan Phillips Square into a bustling hub of culture, flavours and festivities,” the festival said.
There will be food vendors, live performances and a beer garden at the free celebration.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
AlohaFest (July 26)
The mission behind AlohaFest Toronto is to “educate the Greater Toronto community about the Aloha spirit.”
There will be live music, performances, and food, along with hālau and dance groups from Toronto and beyond. Admission is free and the celebration takes place at Mel Lastman Square.
“Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, this is the ultimate celebration of Polynesian art, culture and dance you won’t want to miss,” according to the festival.
Address: Mel Lastman Square at 5100 Yonge St.
OssFest (July 26)
OssFest is back for a “pedestrian takeover” of Toronto’s Ossington strip between Dundas Street West and Queen Street West.
Now in its seventh edition, the free festival will have more than 25 extended patios and all day music and entertainment programming that rolls into the evening.
Address: Ossington Avenue between Dundas Street West and Queen Street West.
Foodville (July 26)
This free festival is a celebration of African, Caribbean and Afro-Latin culture that is rooted in the “flavours, sounds and traditions that help define Toronto,” according to Foodville.
“While food is the centrepiece, the experience goes deeper. It’s about community creativity and cultural pride,” the festival states on its website.
When you’re there, you can eat your way through the local vendors, enjoy live performances, chef showcases and more. The festival will take place at STACKT Market and will feature over 60 vendors including Holy Batter, Flavour Pan D’Rock and Fooddelicio.
Adress: STACKT Market at 28 Bathurst Street
Toronto Caribbean Carnival (July 31 — Aug. 4)
As North America’s “largest cultural festival,” Toronto Caribbean Carnival is back with “brand new experiences and re-energized favourites.”
The celebration began 57 years ago as a “gift of love from the Caribbean community to Canada” and aims to promote Caribbean arts and culture through its various programs.
New this year is Carnival Village at Sankofa Square on Aug. 1 and 2. And, the festivals beloved Grand Parade will take place at Exhibition Place and Lake Shore Boulevard on Aug. 2.
Address: Various locations
Toronto Food Truck Festival (Aug. 1 — 4)
Get ready for some “real must-eats” — the Toronto Food Truck Festival is arriving to the city’s Woodbine Park this August.
“Whether you’re here for the eats, the entertainment or just the vibes — don’t miss this long weekend celebration for food, fun and community,” the festival says.
There will be more than 30 food trucks, live eating challenges, kids games and best of all — free admission.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Veld Music Festival (Aug. 1 — 3)
To dance the night away to artists like Alesso, Deadmau5, Tiësto, Loud Luxury and so many more, “Canada’s biggest electronic music festival” at Toronto’s Downsview Park might need to be in your future.
“Heat waves, heartbeats and hands in the air — VELD’s green field is where summer comes alive in Toronto,” the festival says.
Tickets are on sale on the Veld website.
Address: Downsview Park at 70 Canuck Ave.
Waterfront Night Market (Aug. 8 — 10)
Now in its 16th edition, the Waterfront Night Market, also known as the Pan-Asian Food & Floating Lantern Festival, will take place at the Hotel X Toronto within the Exhibition Grounds.
This year, they’re also “excited” to celebrate the Qixi “Double 7” Festival, bringing a night market meets music festival experience.
“From grandparents to grandkids and everyone in between, the Toronto Waterfront Night Market brings an unparalleled multi-generational event,” the festival says.
You can purchase your tickets to the market online.
Address: Hotel X Toronto at 111 Princes’ Blvd.
Taco Fest (Aug. 8 — 10)
Bringing “some of Toronto’s best and most celebrated chefs” to its celebration, Taco Fest will take place at the Fort York National Historic Site.
There will be 45 vendors with more than 250 kinds of tacos and 32 tequilas to feast on over the three-day festival. There will also be an authentic Mariachi band, salsa dancing and a hot sauce bar.
You can purchase you ticket on the Taco Fest website.
Address: Fort York National Historic Site at 250 Fort York Blvd.
JerkFest (Aug. 8 — 10)
This August at Etobicoke’s Centennial Park, JerkFest will bring a weekend of jerk cuisine, live cooking demos, performances from local and international artists and contests.
“Get up close with talented chefs, ask your burning foodie questions, and dive into the rich sights, sounds and tastes of Caribbean culture,” the festival says. “It’s more than a meal — it’s a full-on island experience that you won’t want to miss.”
You can purchase a ticket to JerkFest on its website.
Address: Centennial Park at 256 Centennial Park Rd.
Canadian National Exhibition (Aug. 15 — Sept. 1)
Also known as The Ex, the annual Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) will bring its iconic midway filled with rides and games to Exhibition Place from Aug. 15 to Sept. 1.
There will also be live performances from Shawn Desman, Loverboy, July Talk, Three Dog Night, Bishop Briggs and Marianas Trench at the fair this year, along with its three-day air show over the Labour Day weekend.
Tickets to the CNE can be purchased on their website.
Address: Exhibition Place at 100 Princes’ Blvd.
Taste of Manila (Aug. 16 — 17)
Taste of Manila is a free celebration of “resiliency and diversity,” taking place at the corners of Bathurst Street and Wilson Avenue.
This year’s performers include Kyline Alcantara, Ruru Madrid, Ai Ai Delas Alas and Jessica Villarubin.
“Join us for an unforgettable weekend filled with culture, entertainment, delicious food, amazing local and international artists and non-stop fun,” the festival says.
Address: Bathurst Street and Wilson Avenue.
Afro Carib Festival (Aug. 23 — 24)
Taking place at Thomson Memorial Park in Scarborough, the 14th annual Afro Carib Fest is a free celebration of the “culture and diversity of Afro-Caribbean communities and beyond.”
“From high-energy dance performances and pulsating music to our show stopping dance competitions and mouth-watering African and Caribbean delicacies, Afro Carib Fest offers something for everyone,” the festival says.
Address: Thomson Memorial Park at 1005 Brimley Rd.
Mabuhay Philippines Festival (Aug. 23 — 24)
Taking place at Nathan Phillips Square, the Mabuhay Philippines Festival will be a free “vibrant celebration of Filipino culture heritage, and talent.”
“Experience the heart of the Philippines right here in Toronto,” says the Philippine Independence Day Council, which hosts the celebration. “Enjoy traditional and modern performances, delicious food, arts, fashion and so much more.”
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Toronto Internation BuskerFest for Epilespy (Aug. 29 — Sept. 1)
If you’re in the mood to witness “circus artistry, daredevils, feats of the impossible” and more, BuskerFest may be for you.
As “Ontario’s largest gathering of buskers from around the world,” admission is by donation in support of Epilepsy Toronto and will take place at Woodbine Park.
“Adrenalin junkies, music lovers, comedy fans, acrobatic enthusiasts, and foodie fanatics — all are welcome to explore the captivating curiosities that can be found at the Toronto International BuskerFest,” the celebration says.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Taste of the Kingsway (Sept. 5 — 7)
Now in its 27th edition, Taste of the Kingsway is “South Etobicoke’s largest street festival for a weekend of food, music and family entertainment.”
Hosted by the Kinsway BIA, there will be street vendors and extended patios and live entertainment at the free celebration taking place on Bloor Street West between Prince Edward Drive and Montgomery Road.
Address: Bloor Street West between Prince Edward Drive and Montgomery Road.
Vegandale Fest (Sept. 6)
Calling all plant-based enthusiasts — Vegandale, known as “North America’s largest vegan festival is coming to Toronto in September.
There will be vendors from all over the world, along with interactive art and live entertainment.
Tickets can be purchased on the Vegandale website.
Address: Woodbine Park at 1695 Queen St. E.
Trinbago Toronto Festival (Sept. 6 — 7)
Now in its fourth year, Trinbago will take place at Nathan Phillips Square in September with Trinidad and Tobago cuisine and cultural performances.
In 2024, Trinbago had 44,000 visitors attend the celebration. You can keep an eye on its website to learn more about this year’s programming as the festival approaches.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Toronto Ukrainian Festival (Sept. 12 — 14)
With one million visitors each year, this celebration with free admission is “North America’s largest Ukrainian street festival.”
There will be a craft market, food and beverages, a cultural pavilion, entertainment and the annual festival parade taking place Sept. 14.
Address: Bloor Street West between Jane Street and Runnymede Road.
Roncesvalles Polish Festival (Sept. 13 — 14)
Now entering its 17th year, the Roncesvalles Polish Festival will feature 90 vendors and exhibitors, 40 performances, a beverage garden, extended patios and a family amusement ride area.
“Come celebrate Roncesvalles Village and the unique heritage of this neighbourhood,” the free festival says.
Address: Roncesvalles Avenue from Queen Street West to Dundas Street West.
VegTO (Sept. 20 — 21)
As “Canada’s largest free-to-attend vegan festival,” this year’s VegTO will mark its 40th anniversary.
“Get ready to undo the top button on your pleather pants,” the festival says.
The free celebration draws in more than 20,000 attendees and will take place at Nathan Phillips Square.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
I hope you’ve been taking notes because there’s truly so many celebrations happening throughout the city this summer and trust us, you won’t want to miss out.
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