Heads up Toronto, there are so many events to keep an eye out for this week. Rather than endlessly scrolling through your socials, we have gathered the city’s Best Bets to keep you in the loop. There are so many celebrations to uplift diverse communities through the arts and we have you covered. Check out the selection of this week’s Best Bets below.
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Danforth Comedy Festival
Get your laugh on with the Danforth Comedy Festival! Over six days and ten shows in August, this is a showcase for Canada’s comedic diversity. Located on the east end of Toronto along the Danforth, this festival has become well known as a comedy hotspot close to notable venues. Shows will appeal to all audiences whether it’s a date night out or a family outing. We’re most looking forward to Got Land , an Indigenous stand-up comedy variety show w. Keep your ear to the ground and your eyes to the sky if you attend! More info.
When: August 8-10
Where: Several Theatres
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Waterfront Night Market
Ever watched the iconic lantern scene in Tangled with hopes to one day experience that for yourself? Well, lucky for you Toronto is getting its very own Waterfront Night Market with Pan Asian food and floating lanterns. The three-day festival will include the city’s best eats, cultural showcases, and performances. If you’re looking to try new foods and expand your taste palettes, this market is well known for their delicious line-up. Transport right to Asia with this market designed to emulate the traditional street-styled night markets of Asia; anchored by the signature Pan-Asian food festival. More info.
When: August 9-11
Where: Stanley Barracks, Hotel X Toronto
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Wavelength Summer Thing
There is truly nothing like a summer afternoon at Trillium Park to bask in the warm weather and waterfront views. This weekend, you can experience the Wavelength Summer Thing for a stacked day of independent music, arts and community. There will be a diverse, inclusive and uplifting lineup of musical artists encompassing indie, hip-hop, electronic, folk, and global music. If you’re looking for more hands-on activities, interactive art installations, games, food, and beverages will be open to turn the space into a creative wonderland. This is a one-time special event and to make matters better, the whole thing is free and open to all ages! More info.
When: August 10
Where: Trillium Park
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Ignite Your Soul Author Event
It is one thing to read a novel, but to experience it alongside the authors is entirely different. This Canadian non-for-profit book signing, hosted by authors Crystal St. Clair and Erin Cristofoli, has brought authors and readers together from around the globe. Since 2014, the arts, culture, and writing community in Ontario has drawn much attention. If you are interested in learning more about the authors behind these stories of sincerity, this is the place for you. At this event, everyone has a voice and the opportunity to engage further with literary works. More info.
When: August 10
Where: Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto Airport & Conference Centre
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Kapwa Kaleidoscope
Explore the Philippine philosophy of ‘Kapwa’ as the reciprocity between people, nature, and cosmos at Kapwa Kaleidoscope. This body of work from first-generation Canadian artist Dr. Blessyl Buan will blend paint, textiles, nature and dance for the vibrant reconciliation of roots and ethereal connections. Journey through this three-floor solo exhibition and experience Kapwa firsthand with themes from Filipino Indigenous philosophy, cultural preservation, identity and ceremony. Blessyl is a well-known artist who has consistently represented the Filipino culture and community through her work. This is a must-see exhibit for those exploring the complex experiences of the diaspora. More info.
When: On now until August 29
Where: Clark Centre for the Arts
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Community Storytelling Project
The art of storytelling is far from a lost art, and you too can participate in a special, intimate performance night at Soulpepper Theatre. First-time storytellers will share their true personal stories with the public following a day-long intensive training session with the seasoned pros at Replay. Groups will take the stage in the outdoor courtyard to share their freshly workshopped pieces. Regardless of expertise, storytelling can be a beautiful medium to connect with others you wouldn’t have otherwise considered. This is a great opportunity to make friends and unpack anything that has been on your mind. You will find stories you have never heard before and may never hear again at this event! It is not to be missed. More info.
When: August 10
Where: Young Centre for the Performing Arts
Photo by Rebecca Tisdelle Macias
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show – I Like Movies
Local talent never misses and with Toronto-based filmmaker Chandler Levack on the look out, the scene appears to be in great hands. This weekend, Levack will present a unique take on coming-of-age movies from the perspective of a 17-year-old movie obsessed, albeit narcissistic and socially awkward Lawrence in I Like Movies. This explores how places of work create formative and empowering spaces through tradition. Two short films EITR and Made in Palestine will be screened as well! Grab your closest friends, get a blanket, and enjoy the last few weeks of summer with these outdoor films. More info.
When: August 11
Where: Christie Pits Park
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Afraspektion
Mark your calendars for the fourth year of celebrating Emancipation Month in Ontario! At Riverside Common Park in Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood, there will be a memorable opening ceremony followed by a day with fun for all. This celebration highlights the contributions and creativity of the Afrodiaspora, and honours the legacy of African Canadians. There will be family-friendly entertainment, art, a curated market, music, and activities for all. This is a great opportunity to learn more about new cultures and get involved with the Riverside neighbourhood. More info.
When: August 11
Where: Riverside Common Park
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Cinema Slumber Party: Dirty Dancing
Get ready Toronto, we’re having a good, old-fashioned pajama party! Travel back to summer 1963 when idealistic Frances Houseman gets ready for a boring old summer with her family. However, she stumbles upon a party rampant with the titular “dirty dancing,” soon she’s sneaking out after dark, and doing swan lifts in the water, and learning it all with the wrong side of the tracks. Watch this film unfold from the comfort of an air-conditioned theatre with a beverage in hand. Grab your tickets for one of the greatest on-screen romances of our time! More info.
When: August 12
Where: Fox Theatre
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