Well, we have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is we won’t be hosting our first annual Root Canal Festival this year, as we couldn’t secure funding or city council approval. But the good news there are a ton of amazing Toronto summer festivals scheduled throughout July and August!
So while you won’t get to hear the latest jams of our Dental Drill Quartet, you’ll still get to enjoy the best food, drink and music that this city—and the world—has to offer.
We’ve narrowed down the list of festivals and events to a few that we think are just too cool to pass up. There should be something here for everyone: kids, gourmands, music lovers, and party-seekers of all types.
Toronto Summer Festivals in July
First off, Summerlicious kicks off on July 8th and runs until the 24th. Over 200 Restaurants across the city are cooking up delicious prix fixed menus, so you’re guaranteed to find something for any palate. Latin lovers won’t want to miss Salsa on St. Clair on July 9th and 10th, a fiery celebration with spicy food and even spicier music. If you’re looking for something considerably louder and not quite as delicious, check out the Honda Indy Toronto at the Ex on July 15th through 17th. This annual race, car show and motor-sports extravaganza is perfect for any kid or adult who loves fast cars and owns a good set of earplugs. Seriously, bring some ear protection.
On the other side of town, you won’t want to miss the Beaches Jazz Festival from July 22nd to 24th, a totally free celebration of some of Jazz’s brightest stars and talented up-and-comers. It’s located at Woodbine Park, which is easily accessible from the Queen streetcar. Jazz fans will also be happy to know that this is the culmination of a much larger jazz celebration in the beautiful Beaches neighbourhood beginning July 8th.
You don’t have to be a beer snob to enjoy Toronto’s Festival of Beer, running at the Ex from July 22nd to 24th. With 333 types of beer to sample, you may want to plan the day’s itinerary carefully. Rounding out the month is the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade on July 30th. Toronto has been a home to Canadians of Caribbean descent for generations, and each year the city gathers together to determine just how hot we like our oxtail soup. Head-dresses are optional but a big smile is required.
Toronto Summer Festivals in August and Beyond
August in Toronto means the Taste of the Danforth street festival, a deliciously raucous celebration of all things Greek running from August 5th to August 7th. You won’t be able to yell “Opa!” without delicious gyro or piece of spanakopita finding its way into your mouth. Then be sure to rest up, because there’s no way you’re going to miss the York-Eglinton International Street Festival (past event) on August 13th and 14th featuring fantastic performers and mouth-watering treats. After that, the Canadian National Exhibition opens its gates on August 19th, and the fun doesn’t stop until early September. Where else can you get a chili-covered buffalo deep-fried hamburger ice cream sundae?
To round out the summer, take a trip to Buskerfest from September 2nd to 5th. The talented performers at Buskerfest will have you totally re-evaluating what you consider “skills” and perhaps even what you consider “sanity.” Always good fun and a good cause, this year the ‘fest will be raising awareness for epilepsy.
Whatever you and your family get up to this summer, remember to stay safe, cool and responsible. And once you’ve had enough cotton candy and funnel cake, we’ll be here to repair the damage.
Happy summer from all of us at Yonge Eglinton Dental.
