June is in full motion with the city’s number of arts and culture related events around Toronto. What better way to enjoy this scene than outdoors in the beautiful weather! This week we have collected the city’s Best Bets so that you can find an activity to fill up your warm summer nights.
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CF Pride Market
With Pride Month in full swing, CF Toronto Eaton Centre announces their lineup of Pride-themed events and activities. To celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community, the shopping center will turn into a festival hub of celebration. The CF Pride Market will run during regular shopping hours in collaboration with the Toronto Queer Market featuring local vendors and an eclectic array of goods. There will be handmade jewelry and vibrant clothing amongst other products. More info.
When: June 17-23
Where: CF Eaton Centre
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show Opening Week
Take a seat in the city’s most scenic parks for the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show. For the summer months, TOPS looks forward to presenting a 21-date open-air festival programme across the city. Visitors can get a drink, set up their blankets, and have a picturesque evening to watch the classics for free! The opening week will kick off at Fort York, the unique historic site in Toronto’s downtown core,with an opening night screening of the 1980 classic, 9 to 5 on June 19th. Other films screening this week include Nope, Twister, and Backspot! More info.
When: June 19-25
Where: Fort York
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Summer Solstice Movie & Market
Celebrate the Summer Solstice with the director’s cut of Midsommar. The film stars Florence Pugh and follows the story of a woman who travels to Sweden to an isolated village for its fabled midsummer festival. What begins as an idyllic retreat devolves into a violent descent into a pagan cult. There will also be a market featuring local artists and makers. Visitors can pick up some unique and themed items while they showcase some fave folk horror movie moments. The updated cut screened will feature additional scenes not originally included in the theatrical release. More info.
When: June 20
Where: Fox Theatre
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Give Me Liberty
Known as one of Toronto’s trendiest neighborhoods, Liberty Village celebrates their 18th annual street party. Give Me Liberty is a one-day late afternoon & evening event that takes place in the heart of one of the city’s exciting neighborhoods. There will be great food, music, vendors, and a wide variety of activities to shine a light on the businesses in the BIA. More info.
When: June 20
Where: Liberty Village
West Queen West Art Crawl
In the vibrant West Queen West neighborhood, nine art galleries from Parkdale to Trinity Square Park are set to participate in this summer’s art crawl. This area is well-known for its artsy-alternative vibe and has been officially designated as the Art + Design district. West Queen West has Toronto’s largest concentration of art galleries and has been named by Vogue as one of the coolest streets of the world. So put on your best walking shoes and tour local art galleries! More info.
When: June 20
Where: West Queen West
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Future of Film Showcase
Immerse yourself into the world of Canadian cinema for the Future of Film Showcase. Canada’s premiere festival for emerging Canadian filmmakers. The expanded programming will include several partnerships that celebrate Indigenous filmmakers, spotlight student-made films and others.There will be industry programming workshops, panel discussions, and one-on-one mentorships aimed at emerging filmmakers. More info.
When: June 20-23
Where: Theaters around Toronto
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Night at the Aqueerium
Dive into the ocean with Ripley’s legendary “Night at the Aqueerium” to see all the supposed ‘fish in the ocean.’ The aquarium will be transformed into an underwater rainbow wonderland filled with dazzling lights, dance floors, drag performances, music, and fin-omenal cocktails! This year, the program includes Canadian drag superstars Tiffany Boxx, Juice Boxx and Makayla Couture sashaying across the aquarium stage performing throughout the night alongside DJ John Caffery and Sophie Jones. Come out for a night of drag, cocktails, community, and sharks! More info.
When: June 21
Where: Ripley’s Aquarium
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NCCT Indigenous Day Event
The Native Centre of Toronto kicks off an engaging day of programming at the Harbourfront Centre. There will be a wide range of programs and services based on Indigenous cultural traditions and teachings. All are welcome to drop by and listen to traditional storytelling, Pow Wow dance routines, and other arts-filled activities. Each hour is filled with activities and events to attend including a fashion show and performances by JUNO Award Nominee Shawnee Kish. More info.
When: June 21
Where: Harbourfront Centre
Runway Reels: A Retro Outdoor Film Affair
It’s not every day you can watch an outdoor film on an airport runway. However, Northcrest Developments is welcoming local communities to enjoy the open space for a free drive-in movie and drag show experience. The 370-acre space transforms into a hub for arts and culture in association with Drag Me to the Movies and Inside Out 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival as an official Pride affiliate event. Guests will have the chance to take in retro films, special drag shows, and DJ performances on the runway at sunset and under the stars. More info.
When: June 21
Where: Downsview Airport Runway
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Hippie Market + Sunday Variety Vintage Pop Up
For the first time, the Hippie Market and Sunday Variety market have curated 30 of their stylish vendors for a vintage market at The Well. You can find all sorts of pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe from designer vintage to streetwear. This collaboration will create a unique shopping experience that is ensured to blend the top retailers and support small local Toronto brands. More info.
When: June 22
Where: The Well