Best Street Festivals in Toronto & GTA This 2025

Julie Anne L.
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Toronto summers don’t play around—they show up loud, proud, and dancing in the streets. From food stalls and marching bands to pop-up markets and parades, this city knows how to throw a proper block party. If your weekends need a little more flavour and a lot more fun, you’re in luck. The best street festivals in Toronto & GTA this 2025 are rolling through with something for every kind of local (and tourist trying to pass as one). So grab your walking shoes and maybe an extra stomach—you’ll need both.

Event details are subject to change at the discretion of the organizers. For the latest updates, visit the official websites or social media accounts.

Best Street Festivals in Toronto & GTA This 2025 – Top Summer Events You Can’t Miss

Electric Island – Summer Concert Series (May – September)

Photo via @electricislandto / Instagram

For electronic music lovers, Electric Island is the place to be. Held across four weekends in Toronto’s parks, this summer concert series features top-notch electronic artists and local talent. It’s an essential event for fans of house, techno, and electronic music, offering a great mix of music and scenic outdoor settings.

  • When: Multiple dates from May – September 2025
  • Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: www.electricisland.to  

TD Toronto Jazz Festival (June 20 – 29)

Photo via @torontojazzfest / Instagram

Get your jazz fix at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival from June 20-29. This 10-day festival offers free outdoor performances in the Bloor-Yorkville area and ticketed concerts throughout the city. It’s a great way to enjoy Toronto’s diverse music scene and experience local and international jazz talent.

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Green Space Festival (June 25 – 29)

Photo via @pridetoronto and @greenspaceto / Instagram

Join the Green Space Festival in Toronto’s Village for a celebration of inclusivity, music, and performance. The event features world-class DJs, legendary music producers, drag shows, and so much more. It’s an event where love and creativity come together to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.

South by Southeast International Festival (June 27 – 29)

Photo via @harbourfrontcentre and @southbysoutheastfest / Instagram

Celebrate the fusion of Asian and Latin American cultures at the South by Southeast International Festival. Expect a fun mix of live Latin Big Bands, a night market, salsa lessons, K-pop performances, and a family-friendly circus zone. This festival is packed with free events and is perfect for anyone curious about global cultures.

Rhythms of Canada Festival (June 30 – July 1)

Photo via @agakhanmuseum / Instagram

Join the Rhythms of Canada Festival for an exploration of Canada’s rich cultural diversity. Located from the Museum to the Aga Khan Park, this two-day festival features music, art, hands-on activities, and delicious food. It’s the perfect event for anyone looking to connect with Canadian culture in a vibrant setting.

Taste of Lawrence 2025 (July 4 – 6)

Head to the Taste of Lawrence for a vibrant multicultural celebration in Scarborough. This festival is one of the city’s largest street events, shutting down Lawrence Avenue for a three-day extravaganza. With a huge array of food vendors offering international cuisine, exciting midway rides, and diverse musical performances, the Taste of Lawrence provides a weekend of fun for the whole family. It’s a place where the community comes together to celebrate its diversity and enjoy a lively summer atmosphere.

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AfroFest (July 4 – 6)

Photo via @afrofest_toronto / Instagram

Head to AfroFest for a celebration of African culture in the heart of Toronto. This festival aims to showcase the richness and diversity of African music and culture. With performances, art displays, and community activities, AfroFest provides a space to embrace and understand the spirit of Africa. It’s a place where people come together to enjoy great music and connect with different cultures.

Fun Philippines Toronto 2025

Photo via @funphilsto / Instagram

Head to Fun Philippines Toronto for a vibrant taste of Filipino culture right on the city’s waterfront. This festival aims to showcase the rich heritage and lively spirit of the Philippines through food, music, and art. With authentic dishes like lechon and halo-halo, captivating performances of traditional dance, and live bands, Fun Philippines offers an immersive cultural experience. It’s a place for the community to gather, celebrate, and share the warmth of Filipino hospitality with everyone.

Beaches International Jazz Festival (July 4 – 27)

Photo via @beachesjazzfestival / Instagram

Held in the scenic Beaches neighborhood, this month-long jazz festival attracts nearly 1,000,000 attendees every year. It’s one of the largest free jazz festivals in Canada, with performances in parks and along Queen Street East during StreetFest. Expect international jazz legends alongside emerging local talent for a diverse musical experience.

Toronto International Brazilfest (July 19 – 20)

Photo via @torontobrazilfest and @arildabr / Instagram

For lovers of rhythm and dance, Toronto International Brazilfest brings the spirit of Brazil to life with music, dance, and delicious food. Expect vibrant performances, traditional Brazilian flavors, and a lively atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re in Rio. This festival celebrates Brazilian culture in all its glory, and after 20 years, it’s still one of the most exciting cultural events in Toronto.

Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana) (July 31 – August 4)

Photo via @caribana_toronto / Instagram

Caribana is North America’s largest Caribbean festival, drawing millions of visitors each year. This vibrant three-week celebration brings the streets of Toronto to life with parades, music, dancing, and unforgettable nightlife. Experience the heart of the Caribbean culture without leaving the city!

Taco Fest (August 8 – 10)

If you’re a fan of Mexican food, Taco Fest is the event you’ve been waiting for. From August 8-10, 2025, head to Fort York for tacos, guacamole, churros, tequila, and more. It’s a fiesta filled with flavors, and each presale ticket comes with $10 in taco tokens, so you can taste your way through the best dishes. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves a fun, food-filled weekend.

  • When: August 8 – 10
  • Where: Fort York National Historic Site, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: www.thetacofest.com 

Jerk Fest 2025 (August 8 – 10)

Photo via @jerkfestivaltoronto / Instagram

Get ready for JerkFest from August 8-10, 2025! Enjoy mouthwatering jerk chicken, great live entertainment, and a fun, family-friendly vibe. This year, JerkFest is going cashless at admission and drink booths, but don’t worry—vendors will still accept cash for food. It’s the perfect way to spend a weekend enjoying Caribbean cuisine, music, and culture with friends and family.

  • When: August 8 – 10
  • Where: Centennial Park – Etobicoke, ON
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: www.jerkfestival.ca 

Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) (August 15 – September 1)

The Canadian National Exhibition, also known as The Ex, is Toronto’s largest annual fair. This year marks over 150 years of thrilling rides, diverse food options, and unique exhibitions. If you’re into games, rides, or cultural shows, there’s something for everyone at this iconic event held every summer at Exhibition Place.

  • When: August 15 – September 1
  • Where: Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: www.theex.com 
  • Phone: 416-263-3330

Japan Festival (Mississauga) (August 16 – 17)

Photo via @japanfestivalcanada / Instagram

Japan Festival CANADA has become a staple in Mississauga, offering a unique look into Japanese culture. Whether you’re sampling delicious food, enjoying performances, or learning about Japan’s traditions, this festival provides an authentic experience. It’s one of the largest Japanese cultural events in North America and will return in 2025 with even more exciting programming.

  • When: August 16 – 17
  • Where: Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: www.japanfestivalcanada.com 

Toronto International BuskerFest (August 29 – September 1)

Photo via @buskerfestto / Instagram

Get ready for four days of excitement at Toronto International BuskerFest. This event features incredible performances from circus artists, daredevils, and street performers from around the world. The festival is perfect for adrenaline junkies, comedy lovers, and anyone who enjoys a great show. It’s all for a good cause, so you get to enjoy the fun while supporting epilepsy research.

Cabbagetown Festival (September 6 – 7)

The Cabbagetown Festival is a celebration of community, history, and diversity. Held every September, it’s the perfect event for foodies, shoppers, and anyone looking for a lively atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of local vendors, performances, and activities for the whole family. It’s one of Toronto’s most beloved festivals and a great way to connect with the vibrant Cabbagetown neighborhood.

Roncesvalles Polish Festival (September 13 – 14, 2025)

@roncespolishfestival/Instagram

Join the vibrant Roncesvalles Polish Festival on September 13 & 14, 2025. This festival celebrates the Polish heritage of Roncesvalles Village while highlighting the creativity of today’s community. Expect an exciting mix of Polka, pierogi, and international flavors from local eateries. The event features local artists, musicians, and performances, including Indigenous programming and activities for the whole family. If you’re a first-timer or a long-time visitor, Roncesvalles Village welcomes everyone with open arms.

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Julie Anne Loquinario

Hey, it’s Julie! Powered by coffee and cuddles from my five feline overlords, I’m always hunting down the best cafés and restos in Toronto and the GTA. When I’m not indulging in my latest food obsession, you’ll find me binge-watching shows or dreaming up my next adventure.

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