Top Food Festivals in Toronto This Summer

Savour the flavours of Toronto this summer! Indulge in the city's vibrant food scene by exploring its exciting summer food and drink festivals. From gourmet tastings to street food delights, here are 10 must-visit events that are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.

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1. Summerlicious

Undoubtedly, the highlight of Toronto’s summer food scene is the highly anticipated Summerlicious event, taking place from July 5 to July 21, 2024! During this culinary celebration, diners can enjoy specially curated prix fixe menus at over 200 esteemed restaurants, ranging from upscale fine dining establishments to beloved local eateries. Begin mapping out your must-visit spots and secure your reservations online.

Location: More than 200 participating restaurants spread throughout Toronto, from Etobicoke in the west to Scarborough in the east.

2. Taste of Lawrence

Get ready for Scarborough's biggest street festival, as Taste of Lawrence returns from July 5 to July 7, 2024, marking its 20th anniversary!Dive into a world of multicultural cuisine and browse over 150 street vendors, while soaking in live performances, thrilling midway rides, and more. From deliciously saucy tacos to refreshing bubble tea, the festival offers a plethora of international culinary delights.

Location: Lawrence Avenue East, between Warden Avenue and Birchmount Road, conveniently close to the vibrant Birch Cliff neighbourhood.

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3. Downtown Toronto Ribfest

Unleash your inner carnivore at Downtown Toronto Ribfest from July 12 to July 14, 2024, where you can indulge in some of the most succulent and flavorful BBQ ribs of the summer. Experience the rich, smoky, and tangy tastes of BBQ traditions from Texas to Kentucky.

Location: Yonge-Dundas Square, across from the Toronto Eaton centre. Bonus points for free admission 

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4. International Food & Drink Festival

Indulge in a global culinary adventure at the International Food & Drink Festival, happening in North York from July 12 to July 14, 2024.Savor a variety of dishes and beverages, featuring barbecue skewers and grilled seafood prepared by some of Toronto's top street food chefs and trendiest eateries. Enjoy a selection of curated spirits, wines, and craft brews.

Location: Mel Lastman Square, conveniently accessible by subway in a North York neighborhood renowned for its diverse shops and restaurants.

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5. Toronto’s Festival of Beer

Love beer and live music? You're in for a treat. This summer, from July 26 to July 28, 2024, immerse yourself in Toronto’s Festival of Beer. Choose from hundreds of beer varieties, including top-notch pale ales, IPAs, lagers, pilsners, and stouts.Sip on your favourite brew while enjoying live performances from artists like Cypress Hill, Josh Ross, and Taking Back Sunday.

Location: The festivities take place at Bandshell Park in Exhibition Place, easily accessible via public transit.

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6. TO Food Truck Festival

Dive into a culinary adventure at the TO Food Truck Festival from August 2 to August 5, 2024. Indulge in a wide array of delicious and unique dishes, including lobster rolls and Vietnamese-inspired tacos.With free admission, you can enjoy not only the diverse food offerings but also live entertainment, exciting eating challenges, and more.

Location: The festival will be held at Woodbine Park in the charming Beaches neighbourhood.

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7. JerkFest

Indulge in a weekend of spicy delights and vibrant Caribbean culture at JerkFest, happening from August 9 to August 11, 2024. This festival, North America's longest-running jerk food and music event, is the largest of its kind outside Jamaica. Enjoy live performances from celebrated Caribbean artists, including the Queen of Reggae, Marcia Griffiths.

Location: Centennial Park in the serene and leafy neighbourhood of Etobicoke.

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8. Waterfront Night Market

Experience the bustling energy of Toronto's Waterfront Night Market from August 9 to August 11, 2024. This Asian night market offers a taste of pan-Asian cuisine, cultural showcases, and the enchanting sight of floating lanterns.
Adults aged 19+ can enjoy the festivities on Friday and Saturday, while Sunday welcomes attendees of all ages.

Location: Exhibition Place, near Hotel X Toronto, accessible by public transit and offering stunning views of Lake Ontario.

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9. Vegandale

Indulge in a world of plant-based delights at Toronto’s annual Vegandale festival on September 7, 2024. From succulent meatless burgers to refreshing vegan bubble teas, this event features over 120 vendors offering delicious vegan treats with plenty of free samples. Enjoy live music, DJ sets, and interactive art installations perfect for photo ops.

Location: Woodbine Park, with its inviting Lake Ontario breezes and sandy beach, will host this ticketed event.‍

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10. VegTO Fest

September is a fantastic month for plant-based enthusiasts and the vegan-curious. Don’t miss the free VegTO Fest on September 21-22, 2024, where you can explore over 200 exhibitors offering a variety of vegan food, drinks, and goods. Fun fact: VegTO Fest has been a staple event since 1985!

Location: Nathan Phillips Square, conveniently located near the Art Gallery of Ontario and Chinatown.

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‍Toronto's summer food festivals are set to offer an incredible selection of culinary experiences that you won't want to miss. From the multicultural flavors of Summerlicious and the vibrant street food at the Taste of Lawrence, to the smoky delights of the Downtown Toronto Ribfest and the refreshing brews at the Festival of Beer, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're a foodie, a beer enthusiast, or someone looking to explore new culinary horizons, these events promise to deliver unforgettable gastronomic adventures. So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to indulge in the best food events Toronto has to offer this summer!