What to know
- Toronto is hosting a packed lineup of festivals over the August long weekend.
- Major events include the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade, VELD Music Festival and Scarborough Ribfest.
- Cultural celebrations such as Taste of India and Ghanafest also return with food, music and live performances.
- Here’s when and where each festival is taking place so you can plan your weekend.
Toronto’s August long weekend has arrived, and with it comes one of the busiest festival weekends of the summer.
Whether you’re looking to dance at a massive music festival, experience vibrant cultural celebrations or indulge in delicious food, there’s no shortage of events happening across the city over the holiday weekend.
From the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade to VELD Music Festival and family-friendly community celebrations, here are some of the biggest festivals taking place in Toronto this weekend.
| Festival | Dates | Cost |
| Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade | Aug. 1 | Free to watch |
| VELD | July 31–Aug. 2 | Ticketed |
| Ribfest | July 31–Aug. 3 | Donation |
| Taste of India | Aug. 1–2 | Free |
| Ghanafest | Aug. 2 | Free |
VELD Music Festival
When: July 31 to Aug. 2
Where: Downsview Park
One of Canada’s biggest electronic dance music festivals returns for three days of live performances from some of the world’s top DJs and producers. Thousands of fans are expected to pack Downsview Park for another high-energy long weekend.
Scarborough Ribfest
When: July 31 to Aug. 3
Where: Thomson Memorial Park
Dig into award-winning barbecue from rib teams across North America while enjoying live entertainment, midway rides, vendors and family-friendly activities. Admission is by a recommended $5 donation, with no advance tickets required.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade
When: Aug. 1
Where: Exhibition Place
The biggest event of Toronto Caribbean Carnival weekend transforms the city’s lakeshore into a celebration of Caribbean culture, music and creativity. Thousands of masqueraders in elaborate costumes dance through the parade route to the sounds of soca and calypso in North America’s largest Caribbean Carnival parade.
Taste of India
When: Aug. 1 to 2
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
Celebrate Indian culture through authentic cuisine, live music, dance performances and cultural showcases in the heart of downtown Toronto. The festival also features local vendors and family-friendly entertainment throughout the weekend.
Ghanafest
When: Aug. 2
Where: Earl Bales Park
Experience Ghanaian culture through traditional drumming, Afrobeats, authentic cuisine, artisan vendors, children’s activities and live performances. The free event celebrates Ghanaian heritage while bringing together families and communities from across the GTA.
