From roller skating to island painting, Toronto is heating up with all kinds of memorable summer events and activities this week. Celebrate the release of Molly Johnson’s new album, meet fellow book lovers at a summer reading party, or take part in community arts celebrations in Etobicoke or Bloordale this weekend. Here are our Toronto Best Bets!
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Canadian Art Battle Championship
Top artists from across the country will battle it out at this live painting competition. Over three rounds, regional champions from across Canada will race against the clock to turn blank canvases into stunning creations. The audience will vote live to crown the 2026 Art Battle Canada Champion! Plus, bid on the finished works at a silent auction. More info.
When: July 16
Where: The Great Hall
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Molly Johnson: Talk to Me Album Release
Hear from beloved Canadian singer-songwriter Molly Johnson at this one-night-only event in celebration of her new album, Talk To Me. The evening will begin with an intimate In-Conversation with Molly and an audience Q&A, followed by a live performance showcasing songs from Molly’s celebrated catalogue, including Talk To Me. Hear the stories behind the music under the iconic El Mocambo neon palms! More info.
When: July 16
Where: El Mocambo
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SKATEVAN Monthly Skate Night
Lace up and roll into the weekend with this pop-up skate night! SKATEVAN is bringing monthly roller skate parties to Evergreen Brick Works this summer, and your next chance to get into the groove is this Friday. Rent a pair or BYO skates! More info.
When: July 17
Where: Evergreen Brick Works
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Community Arts Celebration
Enjoy a free summer afternoon in the park celebrating local culture and creativity in Etobicoke! This Saturday, the third annual Community Arts celebration will feature live music and dance performances, all-ages arts activities, and free food and refreshments. The lineup includes performances from Coco Moko Jumbie, Five and Tens, Logan Staats, and Samba Toronto, plus clay art-making, block printing, and weaving. More info.
When: July 18
Where: Michael Power Park
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Fun in the Sun Reading Party
Enjoy good books and good company at this summer reading party! Bring your current read and settle in for an afternoon of sunshine, drinks, games, and books. Your ticket will include a complimentary glass of wine, access to a community book swap, interactive book-themed activities, and conversation prompts designed to help you discover new books and connect with fellow readers. More info.
When: July 18
Where: Chef’s Hall
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Summer Live Music Festival
Take in an afternoon and evening of live music against the scenic waterfront backdrop of Trillium Park! Free and open to all ages, the Summer Live Music Festival returns with a lineup of emerging Canadian artists, a cappella performances, beatboxing, Latin fusion, jazz, blues-rock, 80’s pop and DJ showcases. Bring your own blanket or chair—plus, enjoy free yoga in the park before the festival! More info.
When: July 18
Where: Trillium Park
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BIG on Bloor
Marking its 20th anniversary this weekend, this community-based festival of arts and culture will take over a stretch of Bloor Street for a free celebration featuring local artists, small businesses and food vendors. This year’s theme, CEREMONY, inspired by multicultural wedding traditions, will include a series of interactive installations and live performances all exploring collective celebrations. This year’s festival will also include a focus on calm down zones, less vendor crowding and increased security in the aftermath of the shooting at Salsa on St. Clair. More info.
When: July 18-19
Where: Bloor Street West, from Dufferin to Lansdowne
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Indigenous Sounds Now
This free event will celebrate the cultures, stories, and sounds of Indigenous Peoples—from traditional Pow Wow drumming to Indigenous DJs, blues, and contemporary rock artists. Donna Sound, reporter for CTV National News’ Indigenous Circle, will host this lively celebration of Indigenous culture in Trillium Park. More info.
When: July 19
Where: Trillium Park
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Island Paint Party
Looking for a creative escape from the city? This outdoor paint party will take you away from the hustle and bustle for a relaxing afternoon on the Toronto Islands. With an incredible city view as your inspiration, spend a summer afternoon painting the skyline at this guided workshop designed for all skill levels. All painting materials are included. More info.
When: July 19
Where: Toronto Islands
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