It’s the first official summer weekend in the city, so this means tons of special events from music festivals, film screenings, and the highly-anticipated Pride parade. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Pride, dance to some throwbacks or enjoy some new art, we’ve got you covered. Here is what you can check out:
Friday, June 23:
Love Park Grand Opening
Toronto’s waterfront is unveiling Love Park, a huge heart-shaped pond with plenty of green space. The community is inviting residents to reign in the beginning of summer with live music, special guest speakers, family-friendly activities, free snacks and more. Everyone is welcome, including your furry friends, who will have a new space to run around in. The opening party starts at noon and will last until 4 p.m. Admission is free.
For more, click here.
Summer Exhibitions at The Power Plant
The Power Plant is launching three new art exhibitions starting on June 23. The first is “in parallel”, an exhibition that “highlights intimate connections between land and body, while expressing each artist’s desire for changes that can lead to an intercommunal future.” The second is titled “We Did This To Ourselves” by Ron Terada, a solo exhibition that speaks to the shared sense of frustration when seeing today’s news. The final exhibition is titled “The Same Thing Looks Different” by Jen Aitken, which is a collection of concrete sculptures that relates to space, form and material as we move through our urban environment. All three exhibitions are available until Sept. 4.
For details, click here.
Shania Twain: Queen Of Me Tour
Canadian icon Shania Twain is performing at Budweiser Stage for her Queen of Me tour. Twain is considered the “Queen of Country Pop” after selling over 100 million records and solidifying herself as one of the best-selling female artists in country music history. Her top hits include “Any Man of Mine”, “From This Moment On” and “Forever and for Always,” among others. You can catch her on stage at 7:30 p.m.
For information, click here.
Saturday, June 24:
Hot in Herre Festival
Downsview Park is hosting its first-ever Hot in Herre festival featuring some of the best artists from the 2000’s. Enjoy a night of throwback R&B and hip hop with legends like Nelly, Ne-Yo, and Akon, with a supporting cast of T.I., Rick Ross, Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Keri Hilson and Chingy. Doors open at 1 p.m. but the party will last until 11 p.m. General admission tickets are $180 each.
For more, click here.
Toronto Singles Toronto Island Walk (25+)
If you’re single and ready to mingle, why not join the singles walk on Toronto Island. The event is the perfect place to meet new people, while enjoying everything nature has to offer. Singles can meet on the island near the entrance to Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co. and from there, they will go on a guided walk through the island’s most scenic areas. Torontonians must be at least 25 years old to join.
For details, click here.
Salsa Saturday: Salsotika + DJ Van Gogh + Oscar Naranjo!
Dine and dance the night away at Salsa Saturdays at Lula Lounge! There’s going to be live music, dance lessons, DJs, dinner and tropical drinks. Those who book a party of 12 or more can receive one complimentary Prix Fixe Dinner. The night starts at 7 p.m. with dinner, then at 9 p.m. the dance lesson will help get dancers into the groove. The DJ will keep the party going with a mix of top 40, salsa, bachata, reggaeton and other Latin hits. Tickets start at $32.62.
For information, click here.
Romeo and Juliet
Watch a stunning adaptation of Romeo and Juliet by Alexei Ratmansky at The National Ballet of Canada. This rendition was created in 2011 and is set to open the company’s 60th anniversary season. The theatre says the production is true to the colour and character of 16th century Verona and the choreography includes fast footwork, expressive pas de deux and inspired ensemble work that drives the story. Tickets are available online, in person, or on the phone. Curtains open at 7:30 p.m.
For more, click here.
Sunday, June 25:
Pride Parade
Celebrate the most highly anticipated Pride event of all, the grande parade on Sunday. This year, the parade starts at 2 p.m. at the corner of Bloor Street East and Church Street North and makes its way to Nathan Phillips Square. Thousands of marchers from over 250 groups will line the streets of downtown Toronto in conjunction with live performances, music and bursts of colour.
For details, click here.
RIVERSIDE C’MON SUNDAYS: The Riverside Common Market BY The Toronto Flea
The Toronto Flea is back this year at the Riverside Common Park. Bring your friends and family for a fun day of games, live music and shopping. There will be over 25 vendors showcasing unique artisan products and items. While you peruse, you can also enjoy live music by Tiago Cardoso and Shannon Chapman. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For information, click here.
TD Toronto Jazz Fest
The TD Toronto Jazz Fest is an outdoor event featuring over 100 free concerts on the TD Avenue Stage. This year, festival headliners include Grammy Award winning artist Ashanti, Toronto’s own BADBADNOTGOOD, Scarborough blues rising star LOONY and JUNO award winning Haviah Mighty. The festival lasts until July 2.
For more, click here.
