Exciting Lineup:
14 Summer Festivals Toronto Residents Will Love!
Whether you’ve recently relocated downtown or have been a lifelong resident, the vibrant summer festival season is nearly upon us, offering a diverse array of options to suit every taste. Toronto boasts an impressive lineup of summer festivals, promising fresh experiences for individuals of all ages.
If you’re undecided about which events to attend, allow the experts at In Colour Tours to offer some recommendations that will infuse your summer with vivid experiences. With a multitude of festivals scheduled in Toronto for the summer of 2024, rest assured, there’s something for everyone. From the exuberance of Pride Toronto to the tantalizing flavors of The Taste of India, to the laughter-inducing Just for Laughs, your downtown summer promises to be a kaleidoscope of experiences.
If you relish this article on Toronto’s summer festivals, be sure to check back weekly for new posts enriching your downtown living experience!
1. TD Salsa On St. Clair
Experience the transformation of Toronto into a lively fiesta this summer! This festival boasts over 350 performers, delectable cuisine, salsa dance extravaganzas, captivating art exhibitions, complimentary Latin dance lessons at various city schools, and the thrilling La Fiesta Parade!
Where: St. Clair Avenue West
When: July 6th-7th, 2024
2. Toronto Jazz Festival
Calling all music aficionados! Don’t miss the Toronto Jazz Festival, attracting approximately 500,000 attendees and featuring top names in jazz. Spread across various downtown outdoor and indoor venues, the festival offers a myriad of options, including both ticketed and complimentary shows. A must-visit for all locals, because who can resist the allure of smooth jazz?
Where: Downtown Toronto (Bloor-Yorkville)
When: June 21st-30th, 2024
3. Pride Toronto
Celebrate diversity at the annual Pride Toronto event, organized by the non-profit organization Pride Toronto, tracing its roots back to 1970. Held annually in June, Pride Toronto weekend is a monumental occasion for the LGBTQIA+ community, featuring vibrant celebrations including music, performances, marches, parties, and family-friendly events centered around Church and Wellesley Village. The highlight is the Pride Parade, drawing massive crowds along Yonge Street between Bloor and Dundas.
If you haven’t experienced Church Street in June, this event is a must-see for all Toronto residents. Toronto’s celebration of this international festival is unparalleled, attracting nearly one million attendees annually! With Pride events spanning the entire month of June, the Pride Toronto calendar offers an array of activities, events, and gatherings.
Where: Church and Wellesley Village, Toronto
When: June 28th-30th, 2024
4. Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Marking its 57th anniversary in 2024, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a jubilant celebration organized by the Caribbean community as a gift to Canada. The Grand Parade, the festival’s centerpiece, transforms Lakeshore Boulevard into a vibrant street party with mesmerizing music and dancers. Various other events unfold at venues across Toronto in July and August, including a spirited Calypso Competition.
The festivities kick off with the official launch at Nathan Phillips Square in mid-July, featuring a junior king and queen showcase and a children’s parade at Malvern Park in Scarborough. Experience the Toronto Caribbean Carnival International Food Festival and Pan in D’Park, a showcase of steel bands, for a taste of Caribbean culture.
Where: Exhibition Place and Lakeshore Boulevard
When: August 3rd, 2024
5. The Toronto Waterfront Festival (formerly Redpath Waterfront Festival)
Experience the charm of the Toronto Waterfront Festival, an annual extravaganza renowned for its roaming entertainers, musical performances, nautical displays, and the iconic floating yellow duck. Indulge in music, culinary delights, and activities along Toronto’s picturesque waterfront.
Where: Waterfront Promenade, from 7 Queens Quay East
When: 2024 Dates TBD
6. Honda Indy
Feel the adrenaline rush at the Honda Indy, Toronto’s Grand Prix featuring exhilarating racing throughout the weekend. A temporary street race course near downtown offers prime viewing spots for thrilling races. Don’t miss the chance to witness top racers compete amidst a backdrop of sponsor-branded excitement.
Where: Exhibition Place
When: July 19th-21st, 2024
7. Taste of Asia
Immerse yourself in North America’s largest outdoor Asian festival, Taste of Asia, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually. Enjoy three days of cultural performances, delectable cuisine from nearly 150 vendors, and family-friendly entertainment celebrating Asian heritage.
Where: Kennedy & Steeles, Markham (North Toronto)
When: June 28th-30th, 2024
8. Taste of India Festival
Embark on a culinary and cultural journey at the Taste of India Festival, featuring nearly 100 food vendors and live performances by local Indian artists. Experience the vibrant tapestry of Indian cuisine and traditions in one lively event.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto
When: August 5th & 6th
9. Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
Bid farewell to summer at the Canadian National Exhibition, a beloved tradition featuring live entertainment, concerts, rides, games, and an array of culinary delights.
Where: Exhibition Place (210 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3)
When: August 16th-September 2nd, 2024
10. Toronto Craft Beer Festival
Raise a glass at the Toronto Craft Beer Festival, celebrating the city’s independent craft brewers. With over 40 vendors, live music, and delectable fare, this event promises a memorable experience. Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2024 venue!
Where: Location TBA
When: 2024 dates TBA
11. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
Experience cinematic excellence at the Toronto International Film Festival, renowned for its premier selection of films from around the globe. Get ready for an unforgettable lineup spanning all genres.
Where: Various Downtown Venues
When: September 2024
12. Just for Laughs Toronto
Prepare for laughter as Just For Laughs Toronto returns with its 13th edition, featuring a stellar lineup of comedic talent.
Where: Various Downtown Venues
When: September 2024
13. Nuit Blanche Toronto
Witness the transformation of Toronto’s neighborhoods into vibrant spectacles with awe-inspiring art installations at Nuit Blanche Toronto.
Where: Multiple locations; click here to find out.
When: October 5th, 2024
14. Toronto Oktoberfest
Celebrate Bavarian culture at Toronto Oktoberfest, featuring a massive Festhalle tent and outdoor Bavarian Village. Indulge in food, drinks, music, and dance.
Where: Garrison Common at Fort York (100 Garrison Rd)
When: October 2024
Experience a Colourful Summer –
Toronto offers a smorgasbord of unforgettable experiences, from music and dance to culinary delights and craft beer. Explore the city’s vibrant offerings this summer, and for a deeper understanding of both current events and the history that shaped your city, join us on an In Colour Walking Tour. We look forward to seeing you downtown this summer.