
Top 2025 Festivals and Events in Toronto
Posted May 15, 2025 | by Signet Group
Toronto's summer calendar is bursting with energy in 2025, offering a vibrant mix of music, culture, art and food festivals that reflects the city's rich diversity. Whether you're a local resident or new to the city, we’ve created a local guide to the top festivals and events you won't want to miss this spring and summer.
CONTACT Photography Festival
Dates: May 1-31
Location: Various locations across Toronto
The CONTACT Photography Festival transforms Toronto into a citywide gallery, featuring exhibitions and public art installations that explore the role of photography in times of crisis and upheaval. It's a must-see for art enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Electric Island
Dates: May 17-18
Location: Fort York and other park venues
Electric Island is Toronto's premier electronic music festival, offering a series of open-air concerts featuring top DJs and artists. Set against the backdrop of city parks, it's the perfect way to dance the summer away.
Pride Toronto
Dates: June 26-29 (Parade on June 29)
Location: Church and Wellesley Village, Downtown Toronto
Pride Toronto is one of the city's most significant events, celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with a month-long series of events culminating in Pride Weekend, June 26-29. Expect music, performances, marches, parties and family-friendly activities that draw massive crowds. If you’re living in one of Signet’s properties in The Village, like 89 Isabella or 262 Jarvis, you’ll be right in the heart of the festivities.
Beaches International Jazz Festival
Dates: July 4-27
Location: The Beaches neighbourhood
This free festival brings jazz, blues and world music to multiple stages along Queen Street East in Toronto. With performances by local and international artists, the Beaches International Jazz Festival is a staple of Toronto's summer music scene. Living at 140 Kingston puts you just steps away from the action — don't miss the chance to experience this incredible festival!
Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana)
Dates: July 31-August 4 (Parade on August 3rd)
Location: Various Venues Downtown Toronto
A highlight of Toronto’s summer, the Caribbean Carnival is North America’s largest cultural festival of its kind. From high-energy parties, traditional calypso and soca music to the iconic Grand Parade filled with stunning costumes, this event brings Caribbean heritage to life in the most vibrant way.
VELD Music Festival
Dates: August 1-3
Location: Downsview Park
VELD is Canada's largest electronic dance music festival, attracting top DJs and thousands of fans. With multiple stages and a high-energy atmosphere, it's a highlight for EDM enthusiasts. If you’re living at 18 & 20 Skipton Court, you might even catch the sounds of the festival right from your balcony.
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
Dates: August 15–September 1
Location: Exhibition Place
Known as "The Ex," the CNE is a beloved end-of-summer tradition featuring amusement rides, games, concerts and a wide array of food vendors. It's a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone.
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
Dates: September 4–14
Location: Various theaters across Toronto
TIFF is one of the world's most prestigious film festivals, showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the globe. It's a must-attend event for film lovers and industry professionals alike.
No matter what your interests are, summer in Toronto has something for everyone. From high-energy music festivals to family-friendly street fairs, the city comes alive with culture, creativity and community. If you're lucky enough to call a Signet property home, you're already in the perfect spot to soak it all in.