We’re half way through the summer and now is not the time to miss out on all the fun things Toronto has to offer! One of the best things about our city is it’s diversity – in food, culture, music and more. In an effort to help you take advantage of what the city has to offer, we’ve made a list of the summer street festivals you just can’t miss out on.
This Indie88 feature is presented with Big on Bloor
Beaches Jazz Festival
July 6th – 29th | The Beaches
This year marks the Beaches Jazz Festival’s 30th Anniversary! Lovers of jazz can unite amongst the East End, all while listening to the sweet sound of an incredible lineup of performers. A variety of events will occur July 6th – 29th, particularly during the weekends.
Summerlicious
July 6th – July 22nd | Various Venues
Calling all foodies: for two delicious weeks, amazing restaurants across the city produce pre-set menus at an affordable price. If you haven’t already been, you need to – Summerlicious is a favourite amongst Torontonians.
Pizzafest
July 20th – July 22nd | Ontario Place
Two words: Pizza. Festival. Yes, we can confirm that there will be pizza… Ooey-gooey, cheesy and delicious pizza. However, we can ALSO confirm that there will be a ton of tasty Italian dishes like meatballs and pasta. Not to mention Italian wine and cocktails. Live music will fill the air and so will the smell of authentic Italian food.
Big on Bloor
July 21st | Bloor Street West
It’s BIG on Bloor’s 11th annual celebration! Pedestrians take over Dufferin to Lansdowne 12 p.m. – 12 a.m. on July 21st. You can count on an explosion of events, music, displays and exhibitions amongst the strip.
Pedestrian Sundays
July 29th | Kensington Market
As if Kensington isn’t already filled with life, Pedestrian Sunday’s are when it truly comes alive! For one day of the month, the Market goes carless and pedestrians are free to roam wherever they’d like. This is a day where people of all kinds of craft, musicians, artists and more display their work on the streets for all to enjoy. Dancing, meditation, it’s up to you.
Toronto Foodtruck Festival
August 3rd – 6th | Woodbine Park
No longer scattered throughout Toronto, all of the tasty food trucks in the city unite in one spot – Woodbine Park! During the weekend of August 3rd – 6th treat yourself to something delicious.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival
August 4th | Exhibition Place
Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival occurs throughout the month with a variety of colourful events. However, the largest event of the festival is the Grand Parade – extending over a 3.5-kilometre stretch along Lakeshore Boulevard. An extraordinary show featuring beautiful costumes, dancing and music!
Taste of the Danforth
August 10th – 12th | Greektown
Head to the Danforth for all things Greek including street food, patios, music, activities and more! Celebrate Toronto’s multiculturalism and enjoy the heritage of the Danforth.
Waterfront Night Market
August 10th – 12th | Ontario Place
This year Ontario Place hosts the 9th annual Waterfront Night Market! The Pan-Asian food festival is bound to satisfy your taste buds. This location is prime and so is the food!
Vegandale Food Drink Festival
August 11th – 12th | Fort York National Historic Site
Vegandale is an entirely plant-based food festival! For two full days you can head to Fort York for non-animal based products in food and refreshments.
Toronto Chinatown Festival
August 18th – 19th | Chinatown
Toronto’s Chinatown community will be celebrating its vibrant culture August 18th to 19th with live performances, food and refreshments, activities and more.
Toronto Cider Festival
August 24th – 25th | Sherbourne Common
Celebrate the end of summer with Toronto Cider Festival! Try an endless selection of delicious ciders – this festival even won the Notable Best Festival Award in 2017, which means it’s safe to say it’s bound to be good.
Buskerfest
August 31st – September 3rd | Woodbine Park
Woodbine Park annually hosts Buskerfest, an extraordinary performance event with comedians, fire jugglers, acrobats and more.
Veg Food Fest
September 7th – 9th | Harbourfront Centre
Over 140 vendors take over Harbourfront for Veg Food Fest, with vegetarian vendors selling all kinds of sweet and savoury treats.
