Toronto is the right place to be over the summer, with several festivals and outdoor experiences taking over city streets and parks. This week is no exception, as Mixto Festival returns with a vibrant, cultural lineup, and the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair showcases the creativity of both international and local artists. Unsure what to do in the next couple of days? Here are a few event suggestions to enjoy with family and friends.
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Under the Stars
Regent Park Film Festival’s outdoor screening series returns this Wednesday, bringing the community together to watch films for free, eat some popcorn, and enjoy performances at the Big Park neighbourhood. Arrive early to participate in pre-show games and activities before sitting on the grass for screenings of The Color Within, Hit the Road and more. This year, Under the Stars will make an extra stop at Milliken Park for a screening of the coming-of-age title, Dìdi. More info.
When: July 9-25
Where: Regent Park and Milliken Park
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Family Fest
If you are looking for an event that caters to all ages, Family Fest offers heart-pounding performances and workshops that will leave the entire family engaged. This free, outdoor celebration features theatre, circus, dance, and music from talented local acts, including festival favourites Spirit of Africa, Scarborough Uke Jam, and Maestro Duo. There are workshops on site to help you learn how to fiddle, to get your body moving with yoga, and to join in on a live typewriting poetry activity. More info.
When: July 10-13
Where: Guild Park & Gardens
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Toronto Outdoor Art Fair
The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair is back and more expansive than ever before as several national voices return to Nathan Phillips Square for a weekend gathering dedicated to art and culture. Over 400 independent artists and art experiences will be at the fair this year, filling the space with connection, lingering, and play. You can also visit the Art Nest incubator, featuring programming that reflects on how we belong to space and to one another. More info.
When: July 11-13
Where: Nathan Phillips Square
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Dance on Yonge
Feel the beat with Toronto’s Dance on Yonge, a festival that combines dance performances and global eats. Savour food from local vendors, move along to DJ sets, and see dance showcases that range from street face-offs to salsa and bachata socials. This event is free and ideal for those looking for family-friendly fun over the weekend, featuring a variety of performances and markets to check out. More info.
When: July 11-13
Where: Mel Lastman Square
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Arc World
Immerse yourself in bold and contemporary Asian culture at Arc World, a reimagining of Celeb Classic. This one-day only festival will be filled with leading culture makers, food flavours, and entertaining experiences. Watch a celebrity basketball game at Arc Hoops, taste delicious Asian cuisine at Arc Eats, and check out a variety show featuring Netflix’s Erin & Aaron Ava Ro as well as Youtube legends AJ and Alyssa Rafael at Arc Next. More info.
When: July 12
Where: Toronto Metropolitan University
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Rosé Picnic Toronto
Put on your best white and pink fits for Canada’s largest premium picnic. Spend the day at the lush-garden Canadian Film Centre, having gourmet bites and sipping from a selection of rosés and fine wine. You can also shop from over 40 vendors at the Beauty & Lifestyle Garden, take pictures with your friends at pop-ups and brand activations, as well as dance to live, world-class DJ sets. More info.
When: July 12
Where: 2489 Bayview Ave
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Pop-up Market: MOCA x Hippie Market Life
This pop-up market located behind the Museum of Contemporary Art is the go-to spot for those searching for their next vintage find. Inspired by Alexa Da Corte’s installation currently on at MOCA, Hippie Market Life invites attendees to reflect on the act of collecting and uncovering items that have cultural and historical meaning. Take home handmade goods and locally sourced treasures, and dive deeper into the concept of collecting and acquiring with Dr. Michael Prokopow’s ticketed talk. More info.
When: July 12
Where: MOCA Toronto
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Mixto Festival
This community-powered festival has the energy and drive of a block party, filled with upbeat music, multicultural food options, art showcases, and more. Find your next favourite artist, dance to lively DJ sets, and indulge in food and drinks at weekend-long celebrations. Bia Ferreira, Ana Luisa, Moneka and Friends, and Orbital Ensemble are only a few of the acts taking the stage at the festival, and who are bound to make their performances cultural experiences. More info.
When: July 12-13
Where: Trillium Park
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Caribbean Vibrations Festival
The Harbourfront Centre will have tropical vibes this weekend with this Caribbean-driven party. Presented by Caribbean Vibrations TV, this festival highlights over 27 islands in the Caribbean region through live music, comedic acts, tasteful cuisine, and more. There is also a CV Fest Kids Zone, where children get to learn more about Caribbean culture through arts & crafts, steelpan lessons, and other workshops. More info.
When: July 12-13
Where: Harbourfront Centre
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Romeo & Juliet
Shakespeare’s celebrated tragedy will be brought to life by director Marie Farsi and a talented ensemble. As part of the 42-year anniversary of Dream in High Park, this outdoor theatre experience has become a Toronto tradition over the summer. Have a picnic with the family and settle down for another captivating retelling of Shakespeare’s beloved, star-crossed lovers. More info.
When: July 13-August 31
Where: High Park Amphitheatre
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