Quantcast
Channel: blogTO
Viewing all 47899 articles
Browse latest View live

The top 10 patios in Bloordale and Bloorcourt

0
0

burdock torontoThe top patios in Bloordale and Bloorcourt will have you relaxing outside of music venues and sipping cocktails in secluded backyards. With patios as eclectic the neighbourhoods they're in, you're sure to find something up your alley.

Here, in no particular order, are my picks for the top patios in Bloordale and Bloorcourt, with a few from the Junction Triangle thrown in for good measure.

For more patio ideas, check out our Toronto Patio Guide or download our iPhone or Android app.

Burdock
If you don't want to shell out the cash to see a show at one of the city's many prestigious music venues, the patio at Burdock is a great option. You have all the necessities: a good crowd, beer, and menu featuring all the pub necessities. Plus, because the restaurant doubles as a venue, music will almost always be within earshot.

Hurricane's
Hurricane's is a tried and true options for sports fans in the area. With laid back plastic patio furniture and enough room for 25, you'll be in good company while you cheer on the Jays.

Kitch
Looking for somewhere to celebrate Taco Tuesdays? Try the backyard patio at Kitch. Serving up everything from jerk chicken tacos to fully loaded nachos, you can't really go wrong. With very little decoration, the food takes centre stage in this outdoor space. Just don't mind the train that passes by on the other side of the fence.

3 Speed
The backyard patio at 3 Speed may get you off of Bloor West, but it won't keep you away from the crowds. A local favourite, you'll find twenty and thirty-somethings sipping house lager and sharing charcuterie boards.

farmers daughter torontoFarmer's Daughter
The sidewalk patio at Farmer's Daughter gives a subtle nod to gardening with its decor. Featuring unpainted picnic tables and watering cans mounted on the wall, it makes for a charming place to grab brunch (add a squid ink caesar if you're feeling adventurous) . There is also plenty of shade provided by umbrellas, if you happen to forget your sunscreen.

Bar Neon
Bar Neon offers a no fuss, no muss place to relax on a summer night. With low slung chairs, picnic tables and very few decorative flourishes, this place lets the cocktails do the talking.

Ciro's
The mid-sized patio at Ciro's is another old and faithful in the area. The space features touches of greenery and gives drinkers and diners a bit of seclusion with a high fence. Expect to see locals chatting over pints and poutine.

The Gaslight
The Gaslight has a scenic backyard patio, different from anything else in the area. With hanging lights, a rustic-chic design and a healthy dose of plant life, this is the perfect place to sample a new craft beer or nibble on some bar snacks.

northwood torontoNorthwood
This expansive patio is ideal for larger crowds. It features long communal tables and a menu chock full of sharable apps. Drinks are also not in short supply, Northwood has an extensive drink menu offering almost every libation you could ever want from coffee to cocktails.

Boo Radley's
This casual rooftop patio is a hit with locals. Serving up pub food and pints, it makes for a pretty ideal kick back spot in the summer.

strongbowThanks to Strongbow for sponsoring our 2015 Toronto Patio Guide.

Did I miss any? Add your favourite Bloordale and Bloorcourt patios to the comments.


The top weekend events in Toronto: June 26-28 2015

0
0

weekend events toronto juneWeekend events in Toronto will have you closing out Pride with all the big parades and parties. Both the annual Dyke March and Pride Parade will take to the streets in support of LGBTTIQQ2SA* rights. There's also a number of festivals happening in the city: Digital Dreams, Ribfest, Taste of Asia and more.

For more events this weekend click on over to our Events section.

PRIDE

GAGA 4 GAGA: The Pride Ball (June 26)
Looking kick off the last weekend of pride with a bang? This Friday a Gaga inspired Pride Ball will take over The Marquis of Granby on Church Street. Get excited for a full night full of dancing, drinks and Gaga's greatest hits.

Toronto Pride Ride (June 26)
Grab your bike and cycle down to the Humber River Bicycle-Pedestrian Bridge to take part in the annual Pride Ride. If you have some change to spare, head The Village post-ride to grab a drink and join the festivities.

Dyke March (June 27)
See Toronto come together in support of the LGBTTIQQ2SA* community for a political demonstration of epic proportions. Post march activities will take place at Allan Gardens. There will be the Raging Asian Women drumming group, speakers, yoga, and water play.

Pride Parade (June 28)
Embrace the spirit of Pride and attend the annual Pride Parade this Sunday. Expect to see big names like Pussy Riot and Cyndi Lauper in attendance.

ART

MOCCA's Final Exhibition on Queen
MOCCA bids goodbye to West Queen West with its final exhibition before a long pause and entry into awesome new digs. Slide on your deck shoes and head to the Queen West Yacht club to get in on the fun.

FESTIVALS

Luminato (June 19-28)
Luminato enters its final phase. This weekend's lineup includes Apocalypsis and more.

Brazilian Block Party (June 27)
This family-friendly street fest will have you spending your saturday indulging in everything from street food to samba dancing. Look forward to a full day of DJ's, vendors, live entertainment and more.

Digital Dreams (June 27-28)
The "largest electronic music festival in Canada" that you can probably take an Uber home from is still going strong. The biggest outdoor dance party is bringing Armin Van Buuren, Zedd, Steve Angello, Martin Garrix and more to The Flats at Ontario place to keep you dancing for two days straight.

Taste of Asia (June 27-28)
If you can't get enough of summer food fests, here's one to add to your list. The event will feature 150 Vendors serving up mouthwatering Asian fare. Also on tap: a hot sauce competition, photo booth and bumper soccer.

Ribfest (June 27-July 1)
The annual celebration of BBQ and pork takes over Centennial Park from June 27 until Canada Day on July 1. Concert stages and a midway make for a whole day of family fun, while the main attraction is of course the selection of slow smoked meats from pit masters across Ontario.

PS Kensington (June 28th)
Head to Kensington Market for Pedestrian Sundays throughout the summer (happening the last Sunday of the month from May to October). You'll find a host of street performers, food on sticks, and the Kensington's Art Fair, which has returned for a second year.

ENTERTAINMENT

Air Guitar Toronto Championships (June 27)
Watch as Toronto's finest air guitarists take to the stage at Lee's Palace. Look forward to a night of weirdness as they compete to win a spot in the Canadian National Championships.

Gatsby Garden Party (June 28)
Put on your most dapper duds and travel back to the 1920's at the Gatsby Garden Party. Spadina Museum is hosting the afternoon event, which promises jazz music, dancing, and croquet. You'll want to prepare for crowds, as the event has gotten a lot of attention this year.

Disco Disco (June 28)
If you'd rather flashback to the era of disco dancing, this one's for you. Strap on your platform shoes and get ready to boogie with the best of 'em at Barbara Hall Park.

Sandcastle Day (June 28)
Feeling artistic? Show that you have skills with sand at the Ashbridges Bay Sandcastle Day. Make anything from pyramids to classic castles, you'll want to think big if you want to snag the Beaches Cup.

For more events this weekend click on over to our Events section. Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit it for free using this form.

Photo of last year's Pride Parade by Mauricio Calero

Condo of the week: The Tip Top Lofts building

0
0

tip top lofts condo torontoIf you've ever been curious about the iconic Tip Top Lofts building by the Lakeshore, here's your chance. There's a new one-plus-den currently on the market for $829,000. The Tip Tops are the quintessential loft conversion, located in the former headquarters of the 1920s mens clothing chain, and later redeveloped into a 10-storey midrise by the waterfront.

There's almost 100 years of history in this art deco building. Designated a heritage property, the original facade and front lobby were renovated and restored, and six additional storeys were added to the building. The bright red neon sign still hovers outside.

tip top lofts condo torontoThere's a lot to love about this sophisticated unit on the eighth floor. For one, the modern space has a softer style than your traditional industrial lofts--lacking brick and beams--and feeling more like a condo with tall walls and a closed ceiling. The second floor features a unique glassed-in den, master and ensuite, and a spectacular view of the city.

As for neighbourhood, Harbourfront and the revitalized Queens Quay has officially reopened with new bike lanes, wider sidewalks and more green space. It's a short trip to the Island Airport for a quick getaway and you'll never have to worry about finding parking during the Exhibition.

tip top lofts condo torontoSPECS

  • Address: #818 - 637 Lake Shore Boulevard West
  • Price: $829,000
  • Square feet:
  • Bedrooms: 1+1
  • Bathrooms: 2
  • Parking: 1
  • Taxes: $4,251.26
  • Maintenance fee: $787.45/monthly
  • Walk Score: 80

tip top lofts condo torontoNOTABLE FEATURES

  • Approx. 1,200 square feet
  • Two-storey corner loft
  • Sliding glass wall system
  • Custom closet organizer
  • Balcony with gas BBQ hookup
  • Large storage locker

tip top lofts condo torontoGOOD FOR
Shopaholics. The large walk-in closest was professionally designed with a custom closet organizer system. There's track lighting, a mirror and ample shelving for all your clothes. It's perfect for those with a shoe fetish.

tip top lofts condo torontoMOVE ON IF
You need a grocery store in walking distance. With a walk score of 80 ("very walkable"), the building at Bathurst and Lakeshore is close enough to the main streets but still a hike to grocery stores and shops. You're better off driving or taking transit, right outside the door.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

tip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo torontotip top lofts condo toronto

Snakes & Lattes set to open enormous board game cafe

0
0

Snakes and LattesSnakes & Lattes has taken over the former Andy Pool Hall space and is just weeks away from opening a sprawling 7,500 square foot board game cafe. Expect the library to house thousands of board games, and the menu to feature sharing plates and booze!

The new spot will take a more modern approach than its predecessors, offering a combination of the "Latte" and "Lager" concepts. Best of all they will be rolling out an online booking system that will accept reservations for both large and small parties.

Fans of the original Bloor Street location need not fear - the cafe is not going anywhere - the fate of Snakes and Lagers (being just across the street from this new address) is less certain, though details have yet to be announced.

See how filthy the Toronto harbour gets after heavy rain

0
0

toronto harbourHave you noticed the state of the Toronto harbour over the last few days? While it's starting to get better, it's been a brown mess since a powerful storm in the early morning on Tuesday dropped a month's worth of rainfall on the city in just a few hours.

If only this was just sediment shuttled into the lake from the Humber and Don Rivers, the harbour would just been an ugly site rather than a health risk, but that's not the whole story. According to Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, the Lake is also filled with sewage from bypasses that occur in the event of heavy rainfall.

"Big rains usually mean big sewage problems in Toronto," reads a recent blog post on the water quality watchdog's site. Both [the Humber and Ashbridges Bay] plants bypassed sewage with only partial treatment after the storm. You probably didn't hear about it because the city failed to issue any kind of public warning."

Krystyn Tully, Vice President at Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, tells me that there are hundreds of stormwater overflows spread along the Don Valley. These "combined sewer overflows release raw sewage directly into the harbour during heavy rains, like the ones earlier this week."

Six of Toronto's 11 beaches have been determined unsafe to swim in the wake of the storm, though no city-wide notification has been issued by the municipal government. The onus is very much on lake-users to ensure that they're informed about water quality. The Ministry of the Environment is currently conducting a review as to whether the city should have to inform the public when sewage bypasses occur.

In the meantime, be careful out on the water.

Photo by Jim Panou via Lake Ontario Waterkeeper

Toronto to get blazing fast internet to rival Google Fibre

0
0

2015625-toronto-internet.jpgToronto is about to get some of the fastest internet on the planet according to Bell Canada, who announced today that it's installing a new service in the city that will rival Google Fiber. Bell has dubbed the project Gigabit Fibe, which is set to roll out this summer in Toronto.

The service will be made available to over a million residential and business users and will increase the top speed that Bell currently offers from 175 megabits per second to a whopping 940. Increased fibre optics infrastructure will be installed at over 50,000 locations throughout the city to make it all possible, which comes via a $1.1 billion investment from the telecommunications company.

The top 50 summer festivals in Toronto

0
0

summer festivals torontoSummer festivals in Toronto are a smattering of street fairs, food fests and cultural celebrations. From the end of June to September, the city brims with open-air events, community get togethers, music festivals and much more. So slather on your sunscreen and get ready for a wild ride because there's a lot to get to this season.

Here are my picks for the top festivals in Toronto this summer.

Open Roof Festival (June 17-August 19)
ORF has returned to 99 Sudbury street for another year, filling Wednesday nights with music and movies all summer long. Each night will begin with a musical performance and will be followed by a feature film once the sun has set. Check out the full list of films here.

Pride (June 19-28)
Pride has taken over the Village and surrounding area once again this year. Get ready for one of the largest parties of the summer as thousands take to the streets in celebration of LGBTQ rights and equality for both the Dyke March and the big parade down Yonge St.

Digital Dreams (June 27-28)
The "largest electronic music festival in Canada" brings Armin Van Buuren, Zedd, Steve Angello, Martin Garrix and more to The Flats at Ontario place for two days of dancing, neon sunglasses, and a spectacular light show.

Taste of Asia (June 27-28)
If you can't get enough of summer food fests, here's one to add to your list. This event will feature 150 Vendors serving up mouthwatering Asian fare. Also on tap: a hot sauce competition, photo booth, and bumper soccer.

pedestrian sundays kensingtonPS Kensington (June 28th, July 26th, August 30th, September 27th, and October 25th)
Head to Kensington Market for Pedestrian Sundays throughout the summer (happening the last Sunday of the month from May to October). You'll find a host of street performers, food on sticks, and the Kensington Market Art Fair, which has returned for a second year.

Toronto Fringe (July 1-12)
This year's Toronto Fringe Festival offers a heavy dose of comedy and indie theatre. From July 1 to July 12, the city will be buzzing with eager thespians in search of an audience. The lineup this year is chock full of shows starring, written or directed by kick-ass women.

taste of torontoTaste of Toronto (July 2-5)
Now in its sophomore year, this internationally acclaimed food festival takes place at Fort York from July 2 to 5. Look forward to a lineup of 30+ chefs dishing out delicacies, a vendor marketplace, a WayHome preview stage, guided tastings, master classes, and more. Admission is $19 to $25 in advance, $30 at the door.

summer festivals torontoTaste of Lawrence (July 3-5)
The Taste of Lawrence is a three-day food and cultural fest in Scarborough. It showcases foods from a number of different cultures. There will also be midway rides and live music, as well as dancing in the streets and fun for kids.

Salsa on St. Clair (July 4-5)
Salsa on St. Clair is one of the festivals most fraught with steamy summer possibilities. Put on your dancing shoes and get to know the St. Clair West community through dance. There will also be Latin food vendors on the streets, in case you need an energy boost.

Afrofest (July 4-5)
Look forward to a weekend of drumming and dancing when this event kicks off. Afrofest, the largest annual African music fest in the country, takes over Woodbine park with music, dance, interactive workshops, theatre, poetry, food and more.

beaches jazz festBeaches Jazz Fest (July 10-26)
The Beaches Jazz Festival continues to expand, this year encompassing three weekends at Woodbine Park, on top of the annual street festival, while still remaining free for everyone. Performances by the Lula All Stars, Chris Thomas King, Ogguere, God Made Me Funky, The Boom Booms, La Gran Colombia Orchestra and many more make this one of the most international options this summer.

PANAMANIA (July 10-26, August 7-12)
The Pan Am Games aren't just about sports. You'll be able to see acts like The Roots, Flaming Lips, Chromeo, Jann Arden, USS, Lights, Janelle Monae, Colin James, tons of world music artists and lots more -- all for free at Nathan Phillips Square and the CIBC PanAm Park. Check the schedule and show up early.

TO Food Fest (July 12)
Now in its third year, the TO Food Fest has become a summer staple for Toronto. Vendors will include poutine empire Smoke's Poutinerie and newcomers like Heirloom Food Truck.

UNITY Festival (July 22-25)
The 7th annual UNITY Festival will bring beatboxers, musicians and MC's to the city for the ultimate hip hop event. Look forward to a stellar lineup, featuring headliners GZA, Babeli Marlon from Havikoro crew.

toronto festival of beerToronto's Festival of Beer (July 24-26)
Featuring over 300 different brands of beer that run the gamut from small, local outfits like Junction Craft and Left Field to purveyors of mass-produced industrial lager like Miller Lite and Budweiser, for better of for worse, TFOB has it all. Find interesting craft offerings among the "beer girls," fizzy lagers, and pseudo craft schlock and expect thousands of beer drinkers gathering to party.

Wayhome (July 24-26)
How does a festival that hasn't happened yet make the list? Have the founder of super-festival Bonnaroo bring their success north of the border, booking a three-day music, arts and camping festival, the likes of which we've never seen in Ontario. Neil Young, Sam Smith and Kendrick Lamar top the bill of over 70 acts spread over three days.

Night It UpNight it Up (July 24-26)
Admission is free for this Asian night market, happening July 24 to 26 at the Markham Civic Centre. The three-day food festival boasts 120 vendors, a spectacular stage line-up, and ticketed attractions like the Paint-A-Thon.

Hart House Craft Beer Festival (July 30)
At the end of July, Hart House hosts its annual Craft Beer Festival. Expect a day of expertly curated brews and a barbecue. Remember to bring your cab fair in case you get a little too enthusiastic about sampling.

PanAmerican Food Fest (July 30-August 3)
Head to Daniels spectrum for The PanAmerican Food Fest, a celebration that showcases the food and culture of 41 nations. This year's featured country is Mexico, so expect some top notch caliente options from vendors.

Caribana (July 30-August 2)
Caribana is back for its 47th year and just keeps getting better. Offering up three weeks of nightlife, music and entertainment, this is one of the summer's most anticipated events for good reason.

VELDVELD (August 1-2)
Toronto's other EDM monolith returns to Downsview for another round, bringing hometown hero Deadmau5, Kaskade, Hardwell, Above & Beyond, Steve Aoki, A$AP Rocky, DVBBS and more along with it. Hop on the subway to Downsview and dance all day and night.

TD Irie Music Festival (August 1-2)
The TD Irie Music festival takes over Fort York for two days to celebrate Canadian-African culture. Headliners include Bunji Garlin, Fay Ann Lyons, Junior Reid and more. This is the second of two TD Irie Music Festivals this summer, the first being held in Mississauga on July 11th and 12th.

Toronto Food Truck Festival (August 1-2)
Toronto's favourite food trucks will rally at Woodbine Park on August 1 and 2 for two days of street foods, eating challenges, cold beer, live music, and a children's village. Admission is free.

OVO FestOVO Fest (August 1-3)
Drake's love for Toronto knows no bounds, proven this year by expanding OVO Fest with a third day, featuring a Kevin Hart comedy set at the ACC. J.Cole ft. Big Sean and YG headline day one of the (somewhat) mystery lineup, while the classic 'Drake + Special Guests' is on tap for day two.The mystery has already sold out day two, so start hitting refresh on Craigslist.

SummerWorks (August 6-16)
This eleven-day Canadian cultural festival focuses on theatre, dance, music, and live art. Tickets are already on sale, and you can view the full list of performances here.

Taste of the DanforthTaste of the Danforth (August 7-9)
Taste of the Danforth is one of the city's most popular street festivals. The food is plentiful, with more souvlaki than anyone can handle. There's dancing, music, and lots of live entertainment. Be warned though: the festival is this popular for a reason, so the crowds are massive.

Toronto Vegan Food and Drink Festival (August 8)
Celebrate the best of Toronto's vegan dining scene along with plenty of beer, wine and live music at Garrison Common in historic Fort York on August 8. General admission is $10, or $20 including three drink tickets.

Jerk Fest (August 8-9)
If you find yourself dining at The Real Jerk on a weekly basis, this one's for you. The fest will fill Centennial Park with the sweet scent of Caribbean food for two full days. Head down to sample everything from classic jerk chicken to alligator.

Roundhouse Beer Fest (August 8-9)
Offering an array of beers from Ontario Craft Brewers, this festival at Roundhouse Park is still a relatively casual affair with food from some Toronto food trucks. Ticket prices have jumped this year from $10 in advance to $20, but that's still decent value given that the "ticket" for is your glass, meaning you can return for day two without having to buy a second ticket.

Waterfront Night Market TorontoWaterfront Night Market (August 14-16)
Happening in the parking lot of the T & T Cherry Street supermarket, this night market will feature over 100 food and retail vendors. Expect delicious stinky tofu, steamed buns and grilled seafoods on skewers.

TIME Festival (August 15)
TIME takes a slight turn away from the dance-y line up of last year, putting South African hip-hop duo Die Antwoord at the top of the bill, along with crazy crooner Mac Demarco, Ariel Pink, BADBADNOTGOOD, Yung Lean, Ryan Hemsworth, DIIV, and more, all at a very affordable price. As a bonus, there's no way it can rain as much as it did last year.

Sweetery Toronto (August 15-16)
Toronto's inaugural food festival devoted to all things sweet will debut August 15 to 16 at Front and Portland. Admission is free for the two day event featuring piñatas, jelly bean counts, loot bags, and, food stands helmed by local bakeries, patisseries, doughnut shops and ice cream parlours.

Festival of South AsiaFestival of South Asia (August 15-16)
The Festival of South Asia is focused on food, and it closes down Gerrard Street in Little India from Coxwell to Greenwood. Aside from the eats, it's a great chance to take in some Bollywood music and dancing.

York-Eglinton International Street Fest (August 15-16)
On the weekend of August 15th Eglinton Avenue West from Marlee to Dufferin will be closed for the York-Eglinton International Street Fest. The celebration is expected to draw in 25,000, so prepare yourself for crowds. It will feature a petting zoo, live entertainment, food vendors and countless other attractions.

Tirgan Fest (August 20-23)
The Harbourfront Centre is hosting Tirgan Fest, the world's largest celebration of Iranian art and culture. Look forward to live music, films, theatre and more when the festival kicks off at the end of August.

CNECNE (August 21-September 7)
The CNE rolls into town at the end of August and will run until September 7th. Expect the regular roster of midway games, rides, exhibitions, fair foods and about a million ways to spend your hard earned money.

Cityfest (August 22)
Cityfest is a one-day-only event at Canoe Landing Park. Expect all the usual festival shenanigans: a beer garden, live music, food vendors and more. The best part? You don't have to drop a dime for entry.

BIG on Bloor (August 22-23)
Look forward to two days of shopping and entertainment when BIG on Bloor closes the street off to cars between Dufferin and Lansdowne. The event boasts a lengthy list of vendors, entertainers, and more. See the full list of participants here.

Taste of Manila (August 22-23)
Taste of Manila is an annual celebration that takes over Bathurst and Wilson with food from the Philippine's. Expect to find the streets filled with hungry festival-goers snacking on everything from dumplings to deep fried bananas. Check out what went down last year here.

TAIWANFest (August 22-24)
TAIWANfest is a free event that celebrates the meeting of food and culture. The weekend will include orchestra performances, a karaoke and dance challenge, and The International Pan-Asian Fusion Culinary Competition.

BuskerfestBuskerfest (August 27-30)
From August 27 to 30, a pack of delightful freaks and magicians will take over the streets with tons of live busking performances. Yonge St. will be open to performers and pedestrians alike between College/Carlton Streets and Queen St. As usual, the festival will be in support of Epilepsy Toronto.

Fan ExpoFan Expo (September 3-6)
This event will have the MTCC filled with everyone from comic book nerds to cosplay queens. Fan expo enthusiasts know to expect a roster of activities, vendors and special guests. On this years list: Mike Tyson, Norman Reedus, Kate Mulgrew and more.

Hot and Spicy Food Fest (September 4-7)
If you're prone to dousing your food in Frank's Red Hot or Sriracha, this fest is probably right up your alley. Celebrating cuisine from around the globe, this event focues on hot, spicy and sustainable foods. Be sure to bring an extra bottle of water, your tongue will thank you.

tiffTIFF (September 10-20)
The Toronto International Film Festival is back again this year and with it comes a long list of parties and film events. As per usual, the fest will feature everything from hard-hitting documentaries to family-friendly feature films. Check out the programme for 2015 here.

Veg Food Fest (September 11-13)
If your plant-based diet held you back from attending the many barbecue events this summer, now is your time to shine. 130 meat-free and dairy-free vendors will be serving up bites to eat at the Harbourfront Centre.

Taste of the Kingsway (September 11-13)
Each year, on the weekend after Labour Day, the Kingsway comes alive with midway rides, beer and wine gardens, live performance and samples upon samples of local food. The street festival will run from Prince Edward Dr. to Montgomery Rd.

Toronto Craft Beer Week (September 18-26)
The Toronto Craft Beer Week hits the city just in time for the final week of summer. Celebrate the end of everyone's favourite season with hoppy beverages at participating locations across the GTA.

Riot FestRiot Fest (September 19-20)
Riotfest's move to Downsview last year came with a big upgrade in their line-up, four times the stages and a second day, slowly edging closer to the monster size of their US counterparts. Thanks to this year's apparent "heavier + hip-hop" mandate, they've convinced Alexisonfire to reunite, bringing along however many of the Wu-Tang Clan can get across the border, Rancid, Motorhead, Tyler, The Creator and so many more.

Toronto Ukranian Fest (September 19-20)
This is North America's largest Ukranian street festival. It started as a small gathering in 1995, offering the chance to sample the best in Ukranian food, music and dance, and now, it draws in about 500,000 visitors. This year's festival runs from September 18th to 20th on Bloor St. W.

Polish Festival (September 19-20)
This is your chance to enjoy all of the pierogies and vodka you please without an ounce of guilt. The Roncesvalles hood, despite its relatively newfound trendiness, is still a Polish enclave, and they know what's up when it comes to food and celebration. Enjoy the Polish folklore, polka bands, and other live performances and vendors on September 19th and 20th.

What did I miss? Add more summer festivals to the comments.

Contributions from Matthew Forsythe, Ben Johnson, Sima Sahar Zerehi, Sarah Ratchford, Caspar Yue and Liora Ipsum

The top 37 late night food delivery options in Toronto

0
0

food delivery torontoLate night delivery in Toronto is what happens when hunger strikes in the middle of the night. Whether you're craving pizza, Chinese food, burgers or something else - this list compiles your best bets for delivery options.

See also

PIZZA

  • Pizza Gigi is open for pick-up or delivery until 4 a.m. every day. Call the pizzeria directly at 416.535.4444
  • Cora Pizza will deliver an entire pie until 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2 a.m. on Sundays, and until 3 a.m. the rest of the week via Just Eat.
  • Domino's Pizza boasts multiple locations that operate varied hours, though you'll find that most will deliver until midnight if not later throughout the week, and until 2a.m. on weekends. Order on JustEat or direct from the store.
  • Double Double delivers pizza and fried chicken from its multiple locations until 1 a.m. throughout the week, while on weekends most locations offer delivery until 2 a.m. or later. Order via JustEast or directly with your closest location.
  • Freshslice delivers on weekends until 5 a.m., while on Sundays and Mondays delivery goes until 1a.m., and the rest of the week it's 2a.m. via JustEat or directly with the College St. store.
  • Gino's Pizza at Bloor and Dufferin delivers until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturday and is available on JustEat or by phone.
  • Panzerotto Pizza's select location deliver late night. The one on Bloor St. west of Dufferin delivers until 2 a.m. on weekends via JustEat.
  • Papa Ceo delivers until 5 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights., 3 a.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, and 4 a.m. every other day. Order through JustEat or by calling the store.
  • Papa John's goes until 1a.m. most nights, while on weekends and 3a.m. on weekends via JustEat
  • Big Slice is open until 5 a.m. but the cut off to order delivery is 4 a.m nightly. Order online with the store.
  • Amato operates multiple locations which each offer varying deliver times. The location on Yonge St. is opened the latest, delivering through Just Eat until 3am everyday.
  • Diamond Pizza boasts locations in East York and Scarborough. The location on Main St. delivers until 1 a.m. on weekends and can be ordered on JustEat.

CHINESE FOOD

SANDWICHES

  • Belly Busters' classic turkey bacon sub can be ordered via Hurrier until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays
  • Danforth Sandwich delivers Italian favourites via JustEat until 11 p.m. on Sundays, 12:30 a.m. on weekdays, and, 1a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Lou Dawg's southern sandwiches can be delivered to your door by Hurrier up until 3 a.m on Friday and Saturday nights.
  • Come and Get It delivers until 1a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays via Hurrier.
  • Junked Food Co. will send you waffle sandwiches through Hurrier until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

PUB GRUB & DINER FOOD

  • The Office Pub delivers through Hurrier until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Insomnia lives up to its name, offering 2 a.m. deliver on Fridays and Saturdays via Hurrier.
  • The Lakeview will send you cornflake chicken and burgers until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays via Hurrier.

BURGERS

TACOS

GREEK

  • Greek In The Village delivers until 3:45a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, while the cut off is 1:30 a.m. on Sundays, and 12:30 a.m. throughout the rest of the week

FRIED CHICKEN

INDIAN

  • 309 Dhaba Indian Excellence will bring you butter chicken until 3 a.m. every night, except, Fridays and Saturdays when they do delivery even later; 4 a.m.. Place your order through JustEat.

JAPANESE

  • Nome Izakaya can be ordered via Snap Delivery until 2am nightly in the city's north end.

KOREAN

  • Owl of Minerva in North York can be ordered until 4 a.m. via Snap Delivery.

What did I miss? Add your go-to late night delivery options in the comments.

Photo of Come and Get It


The top 20 street festivals in Toronto for summer 2015

0
0

street festivals torontoStreet festivals in Toronto are the perfect excuses to get out and explore the city's neighbourhoods one block at a time. Offering up everything from midway rides to community celebrations, all of these street events are as unique as the neighbourhoods they take place in. Whether you're looking to experiment with new cuisine or see local artists perform, there's a street fest out there for you.

Here are my picks for the top street festivals in Toronto this summer.

See also:The top 50 summer festivals in Toronto

Taste of Asia (June 27-28)
If you can't get enough of summer food fests, here's one to add to your list. This event will feature 150 Vendors serving up mouthwatering Asian fare. Also on tap: a hot sauce competition, photo booth and bumper soccer.

PS Kensington (June 28th, July 26th, August 30th, September 27th, and October 25th)
Head to Kensington Market for Pedestrian Sundays throughout the summer (happening the last Sunday of the month from May to October). You'll find a host of street performers, food on sticks, and the Kensington's Art Fair, which has returned for a second year.

Corso Italia Mercato (July 3-4)
This street fest is a celebration of Italian culture that shuts down St. Clair between Westmount and Lansdowne. Expect to find buskers, art, shopping, live music and, of course, food vendors serving up your favourite Italian comfort foods.

Taste of Lawrence (July 3-5)
The Taste of Lawrence is a three-day food and cultural fest in Scarborough. It showcases foods from a number of different cultures. There will also be midway rides and live music, as well as dancing in the streets and fun for kids

salsa on st clairSalsa on St. Clair (July 4-5)
Salsa on St. Clair is probably one of the festivals most fraught with steamy summer possibilities. Put on your dancing shoes and get to know the St. Clair community through dance. There will also be Latin food vendors on the street, in case you need an energy boost.

Franco-Fête (July 10-24)
Franco-Fete is an opportunity for Toronto's French-speaking people to get together and share their cultures, and teach others about them, too. The festival, at Yonge-Dundas Square, will focus on French music.

Beaches Jazz Fest (July 10-26)
The Beaches Jazz Festival continues to expand, this year encompassing three weekends at Woodbine Park, on top of the annual street festival, while still remaining free for everyone. Performances by the Lula All Stars, Chris Thomas King, Ogguere, God Made Me Funky, The Boom Booms, La Gran Colombia Orchestra and many more make this one of the most international options this summer.

PANAMANIA (July 11-25)
The Pan Am Games brings more than just sports. You'll be able to see acts like A Tribe Called Red, Radio Radio, Kiesza, Lights and Stars take the stage at the street party thrown at CIBC Pan Am Park.

CaribanaCaribana (July 30-August 2)
Caribana is back and is celebrating its 47th year and just keeps getting better. Offering up three weeks of nightlife, music and entertainment, this is one of the summer's most anticipated events for good reason.

Taste of the Danforth (August 7-9)
Taste of the Danforth is one of the city's most popular street festivals. The food is plentiful, with more souvlaki than anyone can reasonably handle.There's dancing and music, and there's an amazing high energy to it. Be warned though: the festival is this popular for a reason, so the crowds are massive.

Wheels on the Danforth (August 15)
The Danforth is being shut down for the ultimate automobile show. Look forward to scoping out classic cars and motorcycles, shopping, and listening to live music. End your day by joining in on the electronic street dance party.

Festival of South Asia (August 15-16)
The Festival of South Asia is focused on food, and it closes down Gerrard Street in Little India from Coxwell to Greenwood. Aside from the food, it's a great chance to take in some Bollywood music and dancing.

York-Eglinton International Street Fest (August 15-16)
On the weekend of August 15th Eglinton Avenue West from Marlee to Dufferin will be closed for the York-Eglinton International Street Fest. The celebration is expected to draw in 25,000, so prepare yourself for crowds. It will feature a petting zoo, live entertainment, food vendors and countless other attractions.

taste of manila torontoTaste of Manila (August 22-23)
Taste of Manila is an annual celebration that takes over Bathurst and Wilson with food from the Philippine's. Expect to find the streets filled with hungry festival-goers snacking on everything from dumplings to deep fried bananas. Check out what went down last year here.

BIG on Bloor (August 22-23)
Look forward to two days of shopping and entertainment when BIG on Bloor closes the street off to cars between Lansdowne and Dufferin. The event boasts a lengthy list of vendors, entertainers, and more. See the full list of participants here.

Chinatown Festival (August 22-23)
This neighbourhood is always alive with Chinese culture, but with this festival, the sheer volume of street foods on offer is astounding. You can also catch a dragon winding its way through the area, with lion dances at night.

buskerfest torontoBuskerfest (August 27-30)
From August 27 to 30, a pack of delightful freaks and magicians will take over the streets with tons of live busking performances. Yonge St. will be open to performers and pedestrians alike between College/Carlton Streets and Queen St. As usual, the festival will be in support of Epilepsy Toronto.

Taste of the Kingsway (September 11-13)
Each year, on the weekend after Labour Day, the Kingsway comes alive with midway rides, beer and wine gardens, live performance and samples upon samples of local food. The street festival will run from Prince Edward Dr. to Montgomery Rd.

Toronto Ukranian Fest (September 19-20)
This is North America's largest Ukranian street festival. It started as a small gathering in 1995, offering the chance to sample the best in Ukranian food, music and dance, and now, it draws in about 500,000 visitors. This year's festival runs from September 18th to 20th on Bloor St. W.

Polish Festival (September 19-20)
Now is your chance to enjoy all of the pierogies and vodka you please without an ounce of guilt. The Roncesvalles hood, despite its relatively newfound trendiness, is still a Polish enclave, and they know what's up when it comes to food and celebration. Enjoy the Polish folklore, polka bands, and other live performances and vendors on September 19th and 20th.

What did I miss? Add your favourite summer street festival to the comments.

Contributions from Sarah Ratchford and Liora Ipsum

Road closures in Toronto: June 26-28 2015

0
0

toronto road closuresRoad closures in Toronto for the weekend of June 26-28 rounds up the key transportation shut-downs affecting the city, including street and TTC closures.

KEY ROAD CLOSURES IN TORONTO

Pride

There are a host of road closures for annual Pride celebrations. The Church St. Fair will close the street between Carlton and Hayden from Friday at 6pm to Monday at 6am.

The Trans March will close the following streets on Friday between 8pm and 9pm: Church between Isabella and Bloor, Bloor between Church and Yonge, Yonge between Bloor and Dundas, and Dundas between Yonge and Victoria.

The Dyke March will close the following streets on Saturday the 27th: Church from Hayden to Bloor, Hayden from Yonge to Church, Yonge between Bloor and Carlton.

The annual Pride Parade will close down the same streets on Sunday.

DVP

The northbound and southbound left lanes of the DVP will be closed from 11pm to 5am each day this weekend for the installation of HOV lane markings.

Gardiner Expressway

The eastbound and westbound left lanes will be occupied of the Gardiner will also be closed from from 11pm to 5am each day this weekend for the installation of HOV markings.

TTC CLOSURES

Wellesley station will be closed to bus traffic during the Church St. Fair.

The 504 King streetcar will be diverting on the weekend between Dufferin and Shaw due to bridge work on the King Street overpass.

ONGOING CLOSURES

Over and above the special closures this weekend, construction projects across Toronto result in numerous other road restrictions across the city. For a comprehensive list of such closures, you can consult the official map maintained by the City of Toronto (also available as a PDF.)

More Toronto art galleries flock to Dupont St.

0
0

toronto art galleries dupont streetThe Toronto gallery scene is in the midst of a major geographic transition, one that's witnessing a collective exodus away from storefront spaces on heavily trafficked streets like Dundas and Queen West to former industrial areas where the rent is cheaper and the space far more ample.

While the trend itself isn't new -- the rise of a gallery scene in and around Sterling Rd. in the Junction Triangle goes back a few years now -- it's become more diverse of late, with Dupont St. becoming the destination du jour.

Former Dundas West staple Cooper Cole has recently opened a large new space at Dupont and Gladstone, while Angell Gallery just formally announced that it's relocating to 1444 Dupont in September. You can also throw Neubacher Shor and Erin Stump Projects into the mix, who will head to the Dupont area in July and September respectively.

That Dupont has finally attracted a host of galleries shouldn't be surprising. In fact, what's surprising is that it took this long for the migration to occur. You can thank galleries like Katzman Contemporary and the soon-to-close Jessica Bradley for paving the way for this northerly transition.

Street traffic doesn't sell art -- or, at least not good art. These galleries can do much more with warehouse-style spaces on streets like Dupont and St. Helen's than they can on West Queen West. Just imagine the potential that the Tower Automotive Building poses for the new MOCCA. You can't occupy an abandoned industrial building on the streets that used to be gallery hotbeds anymore.

So while it'll become a little bit more difficult to plan a Toronto gallery hop, this migratory trend is actually a positive sign for the Toronto arts scene, which continues to prove its adaptability in a city that becomes ever more expensive.

Photo of the new Cooper Cole

The top 5 new home decor stores in Toronto

0
0

home decor torontoThe top new home decor stores in Toronto will help you turn your house into a home. Whether you prefer your pad to be modern and minimalist or adorned with kitschy trinkets, the city's newest shops boast a diverse array of adornments that will help you make your mark on your living space.

Here are my picks for the top new home decor stores in Toronto.

Hopson Grace
This store carries upscale bits and bobs that will make your cooking and dining spaces on par with Ina Garten's. It also hosts a range of workshops for those looking to refine their skills in anything from etiquette to constructing the perfect flower arrangement. Serious food lovers will feel at home here.

Saudade
Want to add some Portuguese flair to your home? This decor haven will be right up your alley. It carries food, hand woven blankets, soap, kitchen utensils, as well as several small items perfect for gifting. All products are carefully curated by the owners, who have the mission of bringing Portuguese design to Toronto.

Rowan Homespun
Rowan specializes in both home decor and apothecary products. Here you'll find everything from artisan pottery to house-brewed Kombucha. The store's owner, Dominique Del Col, also stocks her own natural skincare brand, Wildwood.

Contrast Living
Contrast Living is for those who like to make bold interior design choices. Mixing bright colours and loud patters, the products on display are all about organized chaos. The store stocks items from around the globe, offering up everything from Japanese pottery to Canadian-made coffee tables.

Old Faithful
Old Faithful is chock full of minimalist pieces, ideal for anyone who likes their home streamlined to perfection. The colour scheme of both the products (and the store) is extremely neutral, sticking strictly with beige, white, grey and black.

heinekenThis post was brought to you by Heineken.

What did I miss? Add your favourite home decor store to the comments below.

Photo of Saudade by Jesse Milns.

Queen West Yacht Club arrives in Toronto for summer

0
0

mocca torontoMOCCA said bon voyage to its West Queen West home on Thursday night. For its final exhibition before the museum moves to the Tower Automotive Building on Sterling Road, artist Dean Baldwin transformed the current space into the Queen West Yacht Club. "A fictitious yacht club that isn't even anywhere near the water, and it really isn't intended for anyone with boats," says Baldwin with a laugh.

mocca torontoThe front terrace features The Queen West Memorial Fountain. But unlike most monuments, which are comprised of durable materials such as bronze or marble, the fountain's made of ephemeral objects.

mocca torontoPlanks of woods, pool noodles and metal platters (among other items) are tied together with thick pieces of rope. "It's going to degrade pretty fast, Baldwin says. "It might not even last the summer."

mocca torontoOnce inside, the Chalet - a wooden cabin that was previously at MASS MoCa in Massachusetts, the Conferederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown and Calgary's Esker Foundation - greets visitors with its rich, earthy smell.

mocca torontoThe small room is filled with a hodgepodge of items. At the opening party, guests sit sipping beers in chairs reclaimed from a lobster restaurant in PEI. There are various bottles and knickknacks hanging from the green metal roof and one loose floorboard lifts up to reveal a wine cellar beneath it.

mocca torontoBeyond the Chalet, visitors mill about the gallery sipping on sardine-flavoured martinis served right out of a capsized sailboat - one of Baldwin's installations called Ship in a Bottle. Much of his work involves food, and this whole exhibition toys with its audience's perception of service and gastronomy.

mocca torontoSeth Scriver created the QWYC logo. It's comprised of an array of broken nautical items - like a life preserver and rope - that have been patched up and put back together. "I've always liked taking kind of luxurious things and making them less luxurious," says Baldwin of his inclination for playing with notions of leisure and class.

mocca torontoAlong with the QWYC, the final MOCCA and National Gallery of Canada exhibition is currently on display. It features Elmgreen and Dragset's film Drama Queens.

mocca torontoOver the course of the summer, the QWYC will host an array of social and interactive programs by guest artists and collectives. Baldwin assures the Chalet is a perfect site for such events - it even has a functioning kitchen.

mocca torontoFor those who are already getting nostalgic for the Queen West MOCCA, the gift shop sells towels emblazoned with the QWYC logo to wipe away any tears. But, don't despair just yet; the exhibition stays anchored in place until August 23.

mocca torontoPhotos by Jesse Milns

Vegan pizza and donuts a hit across from Christie Pits

0
0

Apiecalypse NowPreviously a vegan bakery on nearby Markham St., this new Christie Pits spot keeps many of their popular baked goods and desserts but with a focus on vegan pizza. It's a great addition to the area around the park for those looking to have an impromptu picnic.

Read my review of Apiecalypse Now! in the restaurants section.

Vantage point


Vietnamese burger joint coming to Church and Dundas

0
0

dac biet burgerToronto has seen an explosion of burger joints in the past few years but the latest addition to the line-up looks to offer something different. Dac Biet Burger, slated to open in the former Irish Potato Nachos space near Church and Dundas sometime this July, will be selling what they're referring to as Asian inspired burgers and fries.

When reached via Twitter, a representative told us a couple of the burgers already slated to appear on the menu include a kalbi kimchi burger and a banh mi lemongrass pork burger. The price point will be suitable for the area so expect hungry Ryerson students to flock here during lunch times.

What other types of burgers would you like to see offered in Toronto? Let us know in the comments.

Where to buy tickets to the Pan Am Games in Toronto

0
0

pan am games ticketsNeed tickets for the Pan Am Games in Toronto? The easiest way to purchase tickets is online. Tickets are divided by sport and the prices range from $10 to $80, depending on the event and the seat selection available. It is all done through Ticketmaster, which means you need a credit or a debit card.

Your best bet is to print your tickets from home. Don't forget, you get free access to public transit on the day of the game. All you have to do is show your ticket to the transit operator.

For those who are more spontaneous, individual box offices will be open every day of the Games and will be located at each of the main venues. You can also pick up tickets at any Ticketmaster booth located in Southern Ontario, including the box at Nathan Phillips Square.

Even though there will be tickets available at these box offices, Pan Am Games officials recommend that you confirm ticket availability online before heading to the ticket box - yes, we live in a technological world.

And no, the box office won't put your tickets on hold if your friends or family are late. Make sure you show up together or not at all.

Tickets for the Opening Ceremonies are already sold out, but there are still a few slots open for the Closing Ceremonies.

Will you be buying tickets to the Pan Am Games in Toronto? Let us know in the comments. Photo via Toronto 2015 on Facebook.

Surfing and kitesurfing in and around Toronto

0
0

surfing torontoSurfing and kitesurfing in and around Toronto is more popular than you might think. In fact, it's easier than ever to achieve the surfer lifestyle close to home. Boasting a wide variety of options for both surfing and kitesurfing, Toronto is the perfect place to hang loose, build your bod, and go with the (tidal) flow.

Here is my list of the top places to get gear, lessons, and to surf in Toronto.

See also:

Where to surf in Toronto
Winter surfing in Toronto

GEAR

Boardsports
In the business of boarding since 1971, Boardsports offers a wide selection of products for all of your surfing and kitesurfing needs. Prefer to surf at your own pace? The store boasts a variety of accessories for stand-up-paddleboarding (SUP-ing), including boards, leashes, fins, and bags. They also host weekly product demos, allowing you to test before you buy.

silent sportsSilent Sports
With plenty of surfboards, kiteboards, wetsuits, and accessories to choose from, this Thornhill establishment has everything a savvy surfer needs for success in the water - minus actual wind or waves, of course.

Surfdreams Canada Offering a diverse selection of surfboards, skateboards, SUP-boards, and accessories, Surfdreams Canada is a one-stop shop for the all-season surfer. With wetsuits warm enough to withstand even the chilliest temperatures, you're guaranteed a good time year round. As a bonus, Surfdreams also provides repair services.

Jack n Jills Surfshop Carrying a variety of surfing and kitesurfing boards and accessories, Jack n Jills' Sauble Beach location provides almost immediate access to the wind and waves. The staff are surf enthusiasts themselves, providing valuable insight to help select the right product to fit your specific needs and skill level.

LESSONS

The Canadian Kitesurfing Society
A sort of ground-zero for kite surfing and snowkiting in the region, the Canadian Kite Surfing Society provides forecasts of kitesurfing conditions all over Ontario and Quebec. With lesson locations at Cherry Beach, Woodbine, Wasaga, Sauble, Long Point, and more, the Society boasts a well-connected network of kiters eager to expand the sport. Membership is an advantageous way to score expert advice, deals on gear, and discounted lessons, which start at $249 and are available for any skill level.

Toronto Kite Club
Specializing in safe and professional kitesurfing lessons for both beginners and advanced water sport enthusiasts, the Toronto Kite Club focuses on providing quality instruction and great gear. The Club represents several professional kiting brands, and offers lessons in Toronto (the Island, Woodbine Beach, and Bluffer's Park), Wasaga, Sauble, and Lake Simcoe.

Surf Ontario Surf Shop
Earning the title of best surf coach in the province, Surf Ontario's founder, Mike Sandusky, has truly brought the experience of ocean surfing to Ontario's Great Lakes. Offering lessons (starting at $89) in Lake Ontario, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie, Surf Ontario is a testament to the fact that you don't need an ocean to ride great waves. Their online booking procedure also ensures that you'll get the best conditions for your lesson - just make sure you check your email 24 hours prior.

surfset torontoSurfset Toronto
Always wanted the surfer bod, but don't like the feel of a wetsuit? Dying for gnarly abs, minus the gnarly waves? If this is you, Surfset Toronto is your salvation. Offering a surfer-inspired workout to maximize total body fitness and core strength, Surfset promises to deliver lean, muscular results that draw from the real movements of surfing, without the water. Working on land-locked surfboards, lessons start at $22 for a drop-in - no bathing suit required.

Great Lake Surfers
Welcoming surf-enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, Great Lake Surfers operates out of the Bruce Peninsula, with surfing locations at Sauble Beach and Owen Sound. Offering lessons in stand up paddleboarding (SUP), windsurfing, and surfing in its purest form, "the family" at Great Lake Surfers offers expert advice, friendly service, and the chance to experience life in nature's very own fast lane.

Toronto Windsurfing Club
Offering lessons for both adults and children, the Toronto Windsurfing Club helps students develop their skills while meeting new people. Instruction is provided at three skill levels (Beginner, Next Step, and Skill Builder), and run from June to September on weekends and weekday evenings.

LOCATIONS

Cherry Beach, Lake Ontario
This Toronto hotspot also happens to be an ideal location for intermediate and advanced kiters. However, its proximity to the city and shallow water entry also makes Cherry Beach a great place for would-be kitesurfers seeking lessons.

Long Point, Lake Erie
Boasting a consistent surf and exposed beach break, Long Point is an excellent location for both intermediate surfers and those looking to develop their skill with lessons. At just over 3 hours from the city, Long Point is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Sauble Beach, Lake Huron
Known for its Caribbean-clear water, Sauble Beach is a bit of a hike from the city, especially on summer weekends when traffic gets heavy. However, with some planning and foresight, you'll be rewarded with a long stretch of surf-able waves, enough wind to pick up a kite, and three great spots to start: Main Beach, The Lookout, and Grove's Point. Watch out for riptides and vicious crosswinds - this beach is best suited for intermediates or lesson-takers.

Wasaga Beach, Georgian Bay
This popular summer destination is perfect for beginner surfers and kiters looking to improve their skills, take a lesson, and have fun in the sun while keeping (relatively) close to the city.

What did I miss? Add more surfing and kitesurfing tips to the comments. Photo by Simon Carr in the blogTO Flickr pool.

The top 10 tech events in Toronto for summer 2015

0
0

tech events torontoThe top tech events in Toronto this summer will give industry members as well as those looking for an in the opportunity to network, up their skills and learn about the ever-evolving landscape of tech.

Here are my picks for the top tech events in Toronto this summer.

Lighthouse Labs Demo Day (July 2)
Light House Labs' first Toronto Demo Day will showcase the projects developed by their new grads throughout the programme. Though it's a perfect opportunity to learn about the programme for those considering joining the eight-week boot camp, it will also give attendees a chance to network with fellow developers and entrepreneurs.

We Are Wearables Game On! (July 8)
With the Pan Am Games just around the corner, We are Wearables felt it is the appropriate time to tackle the role of wearable technology in sports with a panel discussion. Expect free pizza, beer and wearable tech giveaways, but make sure to register to save your spot.

LatAm Startups Conf 2.0(July 10)
This full day event will bring together Latin American start-up leaders and their Canadian counterparts to discuss how to end the "brain drain" to Silicon Valley and instead stimulate local innovation. Expect a full day filled with panels, workshops and speakers - among the keynote speakers is David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.

AlterConf Toronto (July 11)
AlterConf aims to tackle margnalization in the tech and gaming communities by educating people about the varying facets of diversity through spotlighting initiatives and strong speaker series. These sessions allow local speakers to critically analyze the current culture, showcase their projects, and present a view of what the community should aspire to become.

One Eleven July Tech Summer Bash (July 17)
Join entrepreneurs, start-up founders and tech investors for a fun night of networking and socializing under the stars for what will likely be one of the summer's best tech parties.

Ruby Brigade Social (July 17)
It doesn't matter whether you're a Rubyist or not, go to this low-key social at the Firkin on King to enjoy good conversation, food and drinks alongside Toronto Ruby Brigade members. Great for a bit mingling inside the tech community.

BattleHack Toronto (July 18)
Do you think you have what it takes to be crowned the best hacker in Toronto? If so, register either by yourself or with a team, to show what you're made of and for the chance to win some awesome prizes as well as the opportunity be flown to the finals. This full day event includes a brief speaker series, lunch and dinner.

2015 Social Media & Society International Conference (July 27-29)
This three day conference is an annual, international gathering of more than 200 social media researchers from around the globe who research the academic side of social media and its impact on society. The programme is jam-packed with panel discussions and paper presentations covering a wide range of topics in social media.

Girls in Tech Annual BBQ (August 13)
Open to women and men, this stylish roof-top BBQ will be a great way to meet up-and-comers in the Toronto tech scene all the while enjoying delicious food in a killer setting. Look forward to talks by Noura Sakkijha, founder of Meijuri, Jonathan Keebler founder of ScribbleLive and talks by the founders of Brika.

Web UNLEASHED 2015 (September 16-17)
This two day event boasts more than 50 presentations and is geared towards front-end-developers and helping them navigate the ever changing landscape of design in a way that will be beneficial towards advancing their career. Look forward to speakers from leading web industries around the world including Google, SoundCloud, LinkedIn and many more.

Did I miss any? Leave your picks for tech events in Toronto this summer in the comments. Photo from Lighthouse Labs on Facebook.

This is what an architecture party in Toronto looks like

Viewing all 47899 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images