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July 15, 2025

Your Toronto Summer Guide: Festivals, Flicks & Free Fun

Your Waterfront Weekend Adventure Guide

Summer is in full swing, and Torontonians love their events! From vibrant cultural celebrations to chilled-out evenings by the water, there's something for everyone to experience.

Check out some of the exciting events happening this season!

1. UNITY Fest

Get ready to move and groove at Canada's largest hip-hop festival! Expect a fun-filled day with beatboxers, breakdancers, graffiti art, and so much more.

  • Date: July 19

  • Time: 12 PM - 9 PM

  • Location: 235 Queens Quay West

2. Habari Africa Festival

Get ready to celebrate Africa's diverse cultures with a weekend full of live music, dance performances, workshops, and beautiful arts.

  • Date: August 9 - 11

  • Location: 235 Queens Quay West

3. Toronto Folk Festival

Experience the Toronto Folk Festival, a grassroots, artist-led, and community-focused music celebration held on Wards Island.

Enjoy performances by indie artists at this unique festival.

  • Date: August 23 - 24

  • Location: Wards Island

4. TAIWANfest

Explore Taiwan's unique identity through a thoughtful dialogue with Portugal. This festival promises fascinating insights into culture, history, and art.

  • Dates: August 22 - 24

  • Location: 235 Queens Quay West

5. Canadian International Airshow

Look to the skies for Canada's favourite airshow! Catch thrilling performances over Lake Ontario by the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the United States Air Forces F-35 Demo Team.

The waterfront offers many perfect viewing spots like Sugar Beach and HTO Park, or grab a seat on a patio like Joe Bird or IRENE for a fantastic view.

  • Date: August 30 - September 1

  • Location: Visible from various points along the waterfront.

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More Must-Do Summer Activities (Many of Them FREE!)

Summer Music in the Garden

Unwind by the waterfront and enjoy FREE live music performances in the beautiful Toronto Music Garden. It's the perfect way to spend a warm evening or afternoon.

Bring a blanket, snacks, and get ready for a relaxing evening of music on the water!

  • Date: Every Thursday at 7 PM and Sunday at 4 PM until August 28

  • Time: 4 PM - 5 PM

  • Location: 479 Queens Quay West (Toronto Music Garden)

Summer Sounds on the Waterfront

Transform your Thursdays! George Brown College invites you to enjoy free live music, local vendors, and amazing community vibes along the beautiful waterfront.

  • Dates: Every Thursday

  • Times: 12 PM - 2 PM

  • Location: 51 Dockside Drive

Right between Sherbourne Common and Sugar Beach, outside the south-side entrance on the Water's Edge Promenade.

Free Flicks at Harbourfront Centre

Grab a blanket and some popcorn for free outdoor movies, right by the lake! A classic summer tradition not to be missed.

This is a FREE ticketed event. Remember to sign up for your Free Ticket to attend.

  • Dates: Every Tuesday evening until August 26.

  • Location: 235 Queens Quay W

  • Check the link below for the full screening schedule.

Dancing on The Square

Dance to the beat every Wednesday evening this summer at Harbourfront Centre! It's a fantastic, free way to learn new moves and enjoy lively music.

  • Dates: Every Wednesday Evening

  • Times: Dancing starts at 7 PM

  • Location: 235 Queens Quay W.

This is a FREE ticketed event. Remember to sign up for your Free Ticket to attend.

Moving Forest at Harbourfront Centre

Witness a unique sight with 50 mobile trees in shopping carts making a powerful statement for a greener Toronto. Don't miss this artistic and thought-provoking installation.

  • This exhibition is open for viewing 24/7 until July 20th.

Ferry Terminal Busker Program

Even the journey to the Toronto Islands can be magical! Talented buskers are transforming the ferry terminals with their amazing performances.

  • Dates: Every weekend until Labour Day

  • Times: 12 - 4 PM

Locations

  • Jack Layton Ferry Terminal (9 Queens Quay W)

  • Centre Island Ferry Dock

UNDR GRND NGHT MRKT

Every Saturday night transforms into a late-night market with vendors, delicious drinks, and live DJ sets.

  • Dates: Every Saturday night until August 23

  • Times: 5 - 11 PM

Location: 235 Queens Quay W

Harbourfront Farmers Market

Discover fresh produce, handmade crafts and delicious treats at Harbourfront Centre's weekly market.

  • Dates: Every Saturday night until September 27

  • Times: 5 - 11 PM

Location: 235 Queens Quay W

Events + Festivals on Toronto's Waterfront

Toronto offers endless ways to explore, celebrate, and enjoy the beautiful weather. Get out there and make the most of it!

If your looking for ways to get to Toronto's waterfront, check out our guide!

Things To Do On Toronto's Waterfront