As the weather warms up, Toronto comes alive with vibrant events and activities that make the city a bustling hub of culture, entertainment, and fun. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s part 1 of a guide to some of the most exciting summer events happening in Toronto in 2024.
- Luminato Festival
luminatofestival.com | @LuminatoFestival
When: June 7 – June 23
Where: different locations – check their website
Luminato is an International Arts Festival, showcasing theatre, dance, music, visual arts, and more. The festival features both free and ticketed events, transforming public spaces and venues into creative hubs. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the arts and discover new and innovative works.
- Toronto Outdoor Picture Show
topictureshow.com | @ToPictureShow
When: June 19 – August 25
Where: Parks across Toronto – Fort York, Christie Pits, Corktown Common, and Bell Manor Park
This outdoor movie series screens classic and contemporary films in parks across the city. Bring a blanket and enjoy a film under the stars with friends and family.
- Summer Music in the Garden
harbourfrontcentre.com/series/summer-music-in-the-garden | @HarbourFrontCentre
When: June 21 – August 29 (Thursdays and Sundays)
Where: Toronto Music Garden – 479 Queens Quay West
Held at the Toronto Music Garden, this free concert series offers classical music performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s a serene way to enjoy high-quality music while appreciating the garden’s natural beauty.
- TD Toronto Jazz Festival
torontojazz.com | @TorontoJazzFest
When: June 21 – June 30
Where: The Village – Village of Yorkville Park – 115 Cumberland St. | The Concert Hall – 888 Yonge St. | Old Grove – Victoria College Quad – 91 Charles St. W
Music lovers won’t want to miss the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, which features performances from some of the world’s best jazz musicians. The festival takes place in various venues across the city, offering a mix of free and ticketed events. From big bands to intimate solo performances, the festival showcases the rich diversity of the jazz genre.
Check out our partner: @232productions
- Collision at Toronto
collisionconf.com | @collisionconfhq
When: June 24 – June 27
Where: Enecare Centre – 100 Princes’ Blvd
Collision is one of North America’s biggest tech conferences, bringing together industry leaders, startups, investors, and media from around the world. The event features keynote speeches, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and an exhibition area showcasing cutting-edge technologies.
Check out our partner: @fooddudes
- Toronto Pride Festival
pridetoronto.com | @PrideToronto
When: June 27 – June 30
Where: Church St.
Toronto’s Pride Festival is one of the largest in the world, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with a series of events culminating in the Pride Parade. The festival includes concerts, parties, a street fair, and the Dyke and Trans Marches. It’s a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and acceptance that draws people from all walks of life.
Check out our partner: @churchstreetgarage
- Electric Island Festival
electricisland.to | @electricislandto
When: July 1, August 3, September 1
Where: Downsview Park – 25 Carl Hall Rd
Electric Island is a summer-long music festival series that takes place on Toronto Island, featuring top international and local electronic music artists. Each event offers a unique experience with great music, food vendors, and a picturesque island setting.
Check out our partner: @codatoronto
- Toronto Fringe Festival
fringetoronto.com | @Toronto_Fringe
When: July 3 – July 14
Where: venues across Toronto (check website for more information)
The Toronto Fringe Festival is an annual theatre festival that showcases independent productions. It’s known for its diversity, inclusivity, and support of emerging artists. The festival includes a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to dance and improv.
- TD Salsa on St. Clair
salsaintoronto.com/td-salsa-on-st-clair | @SalsaInToronto
When: July 6 – July 7
Where: St. Clair Ave West – between Winona Rd Christie St.
This annual street festival celebrates Latin culture with live salsa music, dancing, food, and family-friendly activities. St. Clair Avenue West transforms into a lively fiesta, making it a fun weekend for everyone.
- Toronto Outdoor Art Fair
toaf.ca | @torontooutdoorart
When: July 12 – July 14
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
As Canada’s largest and longest-running outdoor art fair, the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair is a highlight for art enthusiasts. Held at Nathan Phillips Square, the fair features works from hundreds of contemporary visual artists, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet artists and purchase unique pieces.
Toronto’s summer calendar is packed with diverse events that cater to all interests and ages. Whether you’re a fan of film, music, food, or cultural celebrations, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make the most of the summer of 2024 in Toronto!
And if you are an event planner, here are some cool tips:
- Keep your refreshments cool during the parade and parties, ensuring you and your guests stay hydrated and refreshed in a controlled freezer and/or cooler unit.
- Vendors can enhance their food stalls with Coolmate Rentals’ mobile refrigeration rentals to keep ingredients fresh and drinks cold for visitors.