Toronto Summer Festival Guide for Guys

As the weather warms, Toronto sloughs off its Canada Goose and Sorels and sets to take in as much Vitamin D as possible in an attempt to reverse six months of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Luckily that happened earlier than normal this year (hello, patio drinks in March), but the summer festival circuit is when the city really starts jumping.

North by Northeast
180 bands and 40 films descend on the city for this festival of music, movies and interactive performance. Perfect for claiming “I saw them before they got big” after a band takes off. June 11 – 17

Taste of Little Italy
The huge swath of College Street between Bathurst and Shaw turns pedestrian only for this enormous festival celebrating all things Italian. June 15-17

Ribfest
In Etobicoke’s Centennial Park, buskers, animals from the Toronto Zoo, an illusionist and obviously, ribs come together to celebrate that most delicious cut of meat. June 29 – July 2

Summerlicious
Not exactly a festival, per se, but a great way to enjoy that restaurant you’ve always wanted to try for a fraction of the price. Prix fixe menus start at $25 for dinner and $15 for lunch and this year, more restaurants than ever have signed up to participate. July 6 – 22

Sound in Motion Festival
Focusing on live electronic music performances, the Sound in Motion festival will also include a short film showcase, technology exhibits and panel discussions. Events are scheduled across the city, both indoors and outdoors. July 13 – 15

Toronto’s Festival of Beer 
This brings park drinking to a new level – a full weekend of brews and bopping to music – at Bandshell Park at the Exhibition Place. Tickets are $38.50 if you buy now. July 27 – 29

TIFF in the Park 
Every Wednesday, you can pop by David Pecaut Square (site of Toronto Fashion Week) for a free outdoor screening of a film classic. This summer, musicals like The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof and Singin’ in the Rain are the focus. All summer

Taste of the Danforth
Learn the difference between spanakopita and souvlaki (they’re pretty different, trust us) at this year’s Taste of the Danforth, complete with Greek music and children’s games. August 10 – 12

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Image by iStockphoto.