Special Events in Toronto
Canada Day Celebration
This special event celebrates the birthday of Toronto. A day long event that showcases not just the history of the area but also the cultural diversity that the city has become known for.
World dance performances, art installations and live music are featured. The celebration is concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that is choreographed to the latest music from the areas star artists. This event is hosted of the Government of Canada and presented by local businesses in the area.
Cavalcade of Lights
This annual event has been running for almost 50 years. Focus is on setting the tone for the holiday season with the lighting of the Christmas Tree in the center of Nathan Phillips Square.
Once the tree is lit, festivities pick up with live music and public ice-skating. A huge fireworks display closes the day long kickoff which runs for a month and a half. Not including the fireworks display, all lights used in the celebration are LED's and energy efficient.
Redpath Waterfront Festival
This event is a weekend long celebration of the East Coast lifestyle in Toronto. Various local history and culture are represented through music, art, culture and food.
One of the highlights is the Smokin' Suga' Beach Jam, which features a female led musical showcase alongside sugar sculptures and public BBQ. Sponsored by the Toronto Brigantine Inc. group, the event takes place every mid-June.
Leslieville Tree Festival
This special event is focused on celebrating the outdoors, while educating the community on the importance of trees to the environment. The festivities are held for one day and include live music, workshops, various eco-vendors and kid's activities centered on green education items.
This festival is hosted by the Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF) group in conjunction with the office of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation.
National Aboriginal Day Celebration
This event is all about celebrating the history and culture of Canada's native peoples. Held on the summer solstice of every year, this event focuses on the First Nations spiritual practices along with traditional food, dancing and music.
Some of the tribes represented for the national celebration include the Inuit, Eastern Cree, Algonquin, Huron, MicMac, Abenaki and Ottawa. Presented by the City of Toronto Museums in conjunction with the Government of Canada.