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Weekend events in Toronto June 17-19 2016

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weekend events torontoWeekend events in Toronto for these sunny next few days are packed full of music. There's some food, some cultural stuff, some dancing, but thanks to NXNE, Luminato and other live shows, we'll be hearing sounds all over the place from Friday to Sunday.

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

FOOD

Beach, BBQ and Brews (June 17 - 19)
Get sticky fingers in the sun at the BBQ fest at Woodbine Beach. There will be loads of ribs and smoked chicken as well as competitions and beer vendors!

Taco Fest (June 17-19)
There will be tacos from noon until 11p.m. at 99 Sudbury. Some of the city's top taco houses will be on hand, surrounded by nachos, margaritas, churros and Mexican sweet corn.

Luminato Neighbourhood Food Festival (June 18-19)
The platform in front of Union Station has been taken over by some amazing chef demos, food vendors and DJs. RunsSaturday from 12-8 p.m. and Sunday from 12-6 p.m.

Queers for Dinner: Pride Picnic (June 18)
This is a low-key environment to connect with other lovely queer folks during Pride Month. This is an afternoon of snacks vegan/vegetarian-friendly, frisbee, board games, and hang outs with other queer folks. Bring $2-$3 for the the snacks and make some friends.

MUSIC

MNFSTO10 X NXNE (June 17-18)
The Port Lands gets even more hip with this brand new NXNE festival stage. The first day, a mix of hip hop, soul and reggae with ScHoolboy Q, Ghostface Killah & Mick Jenkins. MNFSTO10 artists will also take the stage through the night. Saturday's lineup leans heavier on rock with Land of Talk, Born Ruffians and more.

No Fest (June 17-18)
This is a two-day music fest from Buzz Records and Noisey, all taking place at The Garrison. Genre wise, it's a mix of fuzzy rock and electronic, and a great bonus detail? There is a free day party before the night shows start on Saturday. Check out the whole lineup on their website.

Live in Bellwoods (June 17-19)
Sit on that giant hill at the north end of the dog bowl in Bellwoods and enjoy three-days of lovely "chill afternoon tunes," and this year the festival has access to electricity! So you'll actually be able to hear the soft sounds floating through the trees and dog howls.

NXNE: Coldspecks (June 17)
2012 Polaris Prize nominee Cold Specks is playing a show at Lee's Palace. Drop everything you are doing. Gather up all your lunch and laundry money, don't eat, stay dirty and go watch the wonder of this woman perform. She'll take your ass to church!

Cancer Bats (June 17)
Another great NXNE showcase, this one is a lot noisier, though. Six bands join Cancer Bats for a night at the Bovine Sex Club.

Grand Master Flash (June 18)
Did you know Grand Master Flash has performed for Queen Elizabeth II, toured with the likes of Rick James and The Clash? Watch the legend perform in close proximity at the newly renovated Velvet Underground.

L'Histoire Du Soldat (June 18)
The TSO Chamber soloists take over Luminato programming and The Hearn for one night to perform Stravinsky's masterpiece. A septet will play in the Side Room along with concert master Jonathan Crow. Make sure to check out all the other programming happening throughout the weekend on Luminato's official website.

Ellie Goulding (June 19)
For some odd reason I seem to know more about who Ellie Goulding is dating than her music, but I do understand that her songs can often set a dancefloor on fire. The talented singer takes on the ACC for a great big dance show.

CULTURE

Art Book Fair (June 17-19)
The first annual Toronto Book Fair takes place inside the Artscape building on Shaw Street from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and will highlight "150 national and international artists, publishers, galleries, small presses, designers, curators, bookmakers, writers, and performers."

Bizarre Ball 4: Shipwreck (June 17)
The first shipwreck party of the weekend happens at Buddies in Bad Times. It's the Bizarre Ball! An amazing vogue ball with even more amazing outfits. DJ John Caffery spins while contestants strut and splash down the runway, living their mermaid/sea monster fantasy.

Taste of Little Italy (June 17-19)
Not much needs to be said about this one other than College Street will be closed all weekend from Bathurst to Shaw with lots of food, teens, fairground rides, performances and more food. It runs until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday and wraps up around 10 p.m. on Sunday.

Toronto Pirate Ship Party (June 18)
Hop on the S.S. Kajama (also known as the giant pirate ship that floats around the harbour) from 12:30 - 5 p.m. with music from DJ Digy, burgers, hot dogs and so, so, so much beer and wine.

Black Boys: A night of spiritual Pride (June 18)
Excerpts from the new play celebrating the possibilities of black queerness to come later this season. This night will also feature performances, art and music.

Roald Dahl film festival (June 18-19)
Two-days of Roald Dahl classics at the Carlton Cinema? Yes please! While they've left out James and the Giant Peach, which is a personal fave, Witches, and Matilda are both there. Hurry up and see these before BFG comes out this summer.

OUTDOOR STUFF

Regent Park Party in the Park (June 18)
Celebrate Regent Park's third birthday from 1-10p.m. with live performances, art installations and a "bring your own curry" potluck.

Leslieville Flea (June 19)
There are 60 vendors selling vintage, salvaged, furniture, antiques, collectibles upcycled and handcrafted goods at this east side flea. It's from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Ashbridges Estate (1444 Queen St East).

OM TO (June 19)
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Distillery District you can do yoga for free from some of the best teachers in the city. This is an all-day outdoor yoga fest, y'all! Yogi's from Moksha Yoga, Yoga Tree, The Yoga Sanctuary, Spynga, BeHot Yoga, Iam Yoga, and Soghrati will be giving lessons throughout the day. There's also a meditation station.

DANCING

Dancing this weekend just can't be topped by anything except the much-anticipated Yes Yes Ya'll X Dudebox Luminato party at the The Hearn. All types of love welcome, and proceeds from Friday night will also be donated to the GoFundMe initiative set up for the families of the Orlando victims.

northern heatThanks to The Beaches Ribfest for sponsoring this post.

Photo via Dudebox's Facebook page.


Toronto tribute to Orlando victims planned for City Hall

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City Hall Pride FlagLast Sunday a large candle light vigil for the victims of the Orlando shooting was held in Barbara Hall Park at the 519 on Church Street, and yesterday The Beaver on Queen West mounted the Pulse logo in their front window as a tribute. Now an even larger memorial has been organized for Sunday evening at Nathan Philips Square.

Emotions continue to run high for members of the LGBT community worldwide. Members of the Toronto community Michael Erickson and Ryan Kerr took those powerful feelings and turned them towards organizing a massive tribute for the victims of the Orlando shooting called PulseTO.

Choir! Choir! Choir!'s will lead a sing-a-long of Cyndi Lauper's "True Colours," and there will be music from Troy Jackson and Camila Diaz-Varela. DJ Syrus Marcus Ware will spin a slow dancing set afterwards. They will be adding more queer, Latino performers to the lineup before the event.

"One week after Orlando we are still tender, shaken and struggling. In the spirit of Pulse, we invite you to join us for PulseTO," they state on the Facebook page.

Toronto Food Events: Neighbourhood Food Fest, Queers For Dinner, Food on Film, Southern Comfort

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luminato foodToronto Food Events rounds up the most delicious festivals, pop-ups, winemaker dinners, supper clubs and other food related happenings in Toronto this week and next. You can find us here every Friday morning.

THIS WEEK

  • The Neighbourhood Food Festival by Luminato pops up this weekend at Union Station from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 18 and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 19. Admission is free for the two-day smorgasbord featuring 16 restaurants, food demos, a bar and DJ sets.
  • The Queers For Dinner picnic at Christie Pits is on Saturday, June 18 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Celebrate Pride month at this low-key, drop-in event featuring vegan/vegetarian-friendly snacks, frisbee, board games and friends.
  • Whisky expert Heather Greene discusses the role that whisky played in the history of cinema following a screening of The Angels' Share at TIFF's Food on Film happening Wednesday, June 29 at the Bell Lightbox.

UPCOMING

  • TD Taste of Asia 2016 is on Saturday June 25 from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday June 26 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event features food vendors, a midway and non-stop multicultural performances.
  • Jump hosts a wine dinner with Mission Hill on Tuesday, June 28. The reception and three-course dinner from chef Luke Kennedy is $80.
  • Tickets ($60) are on sale now for Southern Comfort, a dinner presented by U-Feast at Thoroughbred Food & Drink on Wednesday, June 29. Find watermelon salad topped with fried chicken skin, creamed grits with pickled shrimp, brisket with butter beans and more on the menu.

Know of a Toronto food event coming up? Email liora@blogto.com

Photo of Parts & Labour at Luminato by Hector Vasquez..

The top 5 patios for lazy Sunday afternoons in Toronto

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The RhinoThe top patios for lazy Sunday afternoons in Toronto are ideal for those sunny "do nothing" days. While these joints aren't only open on Sundays, they do make for the perfect place to close out the weekend.

Here are my picks for the top patios for lazy Sunday afternoons in Toronto.

The Rhino
The Rhino offers a bare bones option that's big enough to hold you and 79 of your closest friends. It stays open until 2 a.m. even on Sundays, so if your lazy Sunday afternoon turns into a lazy Sunday night your won't have to move camp.

Dundas and CarlawDundas and Carlaw
This Leslieville joint has a pretty sweet corner patio looking out onto - you guessed it - the corner of Dundas and Carlaw. If you're looking for a laid back joint where you can throw your cares away with a beer or a latte in hand, this is it.

Amsterdam BrewHouseAmsterdam Brewhouse
If you wish you were spending your Sunday sprawled out on a dock in Muskoka - and let's be honest, we all do - Amsterdam BrewHouse should be your go-to. While you can't exactly lay out in your bathing suit, you can get a pretty sweet view of the water and kick back in a Muskoka chair with a brew.

Victory CafeVictory Cafe
Victory Cafe's sidewalk patio may not have a lot of bells and whistles, but sometimes all you want on a lazy Sunday is some craft beer and good vibes. Go here to ponder the future of Markham Street before Honest Ed's disappears and this little enclave changes forever.

Cabana Pool BarCabana Pool Bar
This waterfront hangout in the Port Lands can get pricey but where else are you going to get a pool, bottle service and lakeside views all in one place? It'll cost you $20 to get in the door, an additional $20 if you want to take a dip and finally $5 to dry off with a rented towel (you can't bring your own) but it's all worth when they have a top DJ and you're planning to make an afternoon of it.

strongbowThanks to Strongbow for sponsoring our 2016 Patio Guide

What did I miss? Add your favourite patio for a lazy Sunday afternoon in the comments.

The Best Cafes in Toronto (West Side)

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toronto cafes west sideThe best cafes in Toronto on the west side are stalwarts on the caffeine scene. There's some stiff competition out there these days, what with the abundance of indie coffee shops opening up over the past few years. Yet many of these spots have managed to expand and improve their offerings over the last few years, and java-happy patrons are duly rewarded with some excellent joe.

Here are the best cafes in Toronto west of Yonge St.

Scarborough subway keeps getting more expensive

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scarborough subwayThe City of Toronto hasn't even broken ground on the Scarborough subway, but this beleaguered transit line is already a mess.

Earlier this year, the city decided to move forward with a one-stop plan by extending the Bloor-Danforth line from its current terminus at Kennedy Station up to Scarborough Town Centre. Apparently, this would have freed up money to extend the Eglinton Crosstown LRT eastward into Scarborough.

According to the Globe and Mail, however, the one-stop Scarborough plan will likely cost $900 million more than anticipated, bringing the estimated total cost up to $2.9 billion. That's because building it is going to be much harder than expected.

As the Globe write, some of the new tunnels will have to be deeper than in other parts of the city thanks to Scarborough's topography.

Ridership projections (7,300 people at peak hours by 2031) for this line are not very promising either.

Photo by Adrian Badaraco via the blogTO Flickr pool.

Prepare for lots of traffic on Toronto roads this weekend

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road closures torontoAs the temperature rises in Toronto so too do the number of road closures. It's a busy weekend, with events all over the city that you'd be smart to avoid unless you plan on attending. And, of course, there's a subway closure as well.

The most significant event-related closure is for the annual Taste of Little Italy street festival, which will shut down College Street from Bathurst to Shaw streets starting at 6 p.m. on Friday and going until 3 a.m. on Monday. This one is very busy, so even cyclists and pedestrians should take note.

Queen Street West is going to be a mess for drivers most of the weekend, as set up for the MMVAs takes place. John St. is already closed south to Richmond Street, and lane reductions are in place along Queen. As of 4 p.m. on Sunday, the area surrounding the building will be completely shut down to traffic.

Out front of Union Station, Luminato's Neighbourhood Food Festival will close Front Street between Bay and York streets from 7 p.m. on Friday to 11 p.m. on Sunday.

Sunday brings more closures with the Yorkville Exotic Car Show closing down Bloor Street between Avenue Road and Bay Street from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Adding to the congestion in the area, the Journey to Conquer Cancer will close University Avenue between Bloor and Wellington street from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

On the TTC front, there's a weekend-long closure on Line 1, but only between St. Clair West and Downsview, which should mitigate its impact areas further to the south that are already clogged via road closures. Shuttle buses will be running.

Oh, and lest you forgot, streetcar service will be suspended from St. Clair West Station to Gunn's Loop starting this weekend, as the TTC begins work to update passenger platforms along the route to accommodate the new streetcars. Buses will pick up the slack, but that will make the street downright packed.

Plan ahead, and stay patient Toronto.

Photo of the MMVAs by Dylan Leader.

The top 10 sports events in Toronto for summer 2016

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rogers cup 2016The top sports events in Toronto this summer include everything from car races to tennis matches. While we may not have the Pan Am Games this year, there are still a number of high-profile events that should peel you away from your own beer league shenanigans and watching TSN.

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

Toronto Argonauts Home Opener (June 23)
For their first home game of the season the Argos are breaking in the brand new BMO field with a game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Plenty of tailgating will be happening, so get your hands on a barbecue, stock up on booze and remember to wear your team colours.

Rugby Canada: Canada vs. Italy (June 26)
When it comes to rugby, Canada and Italy have a sordid past. In the second match of RWC 2015 pool play Italy took the game from Canada, leaving our men feeling a little salty. On June 26 the teams will take to BMO Field to face off once again - hopefully garnering more favourable results.

Queen's Plate (July 3)
If you like your sporting events with a side of sophistication, the Queen's Plate will be right up your alley. The event, filled with obnoxious headwear, gambling and horse racing, will take over Woodbine Racetrack at the beginning of July. It may not be the Kentucky Derby, but it's a whole lot closer to home.

Blue Jays vs. Kansas City Royals (July 4-6)
Remember last year's Blue Jays vs. Royals games that got so heated even the public libraries got involved? Well, unfortunately, the Royals managed to do us in in 2015, but the teams will return to the diamond this July to duke it out once again. To be honest, I'm not sure whether I'm more excited for the game or for the literary back and forth that might ensue.

WWE Live SummerSlam Heatwave Tour (July 9)
If you're a fan of wrestling, you're in luck. WWE's Live SummerSlam Heatwave Tour will take to the Ricoh Colosseum on July 9. Featured superstars include Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, Apollo Crews and The Miz.

Honda Indy (July 15-17)
The Honda Indy will bring racing fanatics to Exhibition Place for the weekend of July 15. You'll get to see professional drivers manoeuvre around the track in sweet rides like the Dallara DW12 and Reynard 98i. The event also boasts all the bells and whistles of a festival, including gourmet food vendors, food trucks, its own Beer fest, meet and greets and more.

Canadian Open (July 18-24)
Mid-July the Canadian Open will kick off just outside of city bounds at the The Jack Nicklaus-designed Glen Abbey Golf Course in Oakville. If you want to see PGA Tour pros like Ernie Els and Matt Kuchar aim to get as many hole-in-ones as humanly possible, this is where to go.

Rogers Cup (July 23-31)
The Rogers Cup rolls into town for an 9-day stint, closing out the month of July. Tennis A-listers like Milos Raonic and Rafael Nadal will battle it out for the Rogers Cup at the Aviva Centre beginning July 23. Unfortunately, if you want to see the ladies take to the courts, you'll have to make the journey to Montreal.

Montreal Impact vs. Toronto FC (August 27)
Montreal Impact and Toronto FC will go head to head at the end of August on the brand new BMO Field. This game promises to be quite the event, but please, TFC fans, remember the lesson we learned last year: no matter how riled up you get, do not verbally abuse reporters (or anyone, for that matter).

World Cup of Hockey (Sept 17-Oct 1)
Don't consider hockey a summer sport? Think again, my friends. The World Cup of Hockey touches down in Toronto a few days before fall begins for a two-week affair. The international tournament will pit Team Canada, Team Czech Republic, Team Finland, Team Russia, Team Sweden, Team USA, Team Europe and Team North America against each other to find out which team reigns supreme.

Thanks to Mayfair Clubs for sponsoring this post.

Photo by PLTam in the blogTO Flickr pool


It's going to be a scorcher in Toronto this weekend

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toronto weatherAfter a cool and breezy week, you'll finally be able to ditch your light jacket this weekend - and hopefully for good.

According to Environment Canada it's going to be hot and sunny on Saturday and Sunday with temperatures expected to climb to 30C and 32C, respectively. But it'll feel even hotter with the humidex.

Luckily there's lots to do this weekend - including food, art and music festivals - both inside and out. So slap on a hat and some sunscreen, grab a cool treat and take advantage of the beautiful weather stat.

Photo by Phil Marion via the blogTO Flickr pool.

Toronto's first Hawaiian poke restaurant is now open

Toronto has never had a live theatre space quite like this

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Hearn Theatre LuminatoAlthough it used to be a place where energy was harnessed, the Hearn Generating Station is now a place where artistic energy is created. In collaboration with Charcoalblue, an international theatre and acoustics consultancy, Toronto architecture firm PARTISANS turned the decommissioned power plant into a space to celebrate the arts.

One of the biggest challenges - and successes - is the Hearn Theatre, a 1,200 seat custom-built venue currently showcasing the James Plays Trilogy during Luminato.

Hearn Theatre Luminato"In many ways, the Hearn theatre is an inside-out theatre, explains Alex Josephson, co-founder and one of three design principals at design and architecture studio, PARTISANS. "The existing architecture played a huge part in how it turned out."

Hearn Theatre LuminatoNormally, audiences sit outside a big proscenium arch that frames the stage," Josephson continues. "Here, we placed the stage and seating inside the giant rigging fly tower space, which is usually hidden. I think the Hearn offers everyone the opportunity to appreciate the innards and internal workings of a theatre in all of its component features."

Hearn Theatre LuminatoAlong with PARTISANS' other two principals, Pooya Baktash and Jonathan Friedman, Josephson worked with Charcoalblue to get the theatre built in just three weeks. "It then had to come down even faster. Its parts were all going to be delivered in shipping containers, so that spurred us to think about aesthetic possibilities from a practical perspective," Josephson explains.

"The containers were readily available and have an industrial look that compliments the space, so they became the chief design element for the entire Hearn."

Hearn Theatre LuminatoI had the opportunity to check out the theatre during a performance of James I: The Key Will Keep the Lock. As Josephson mentioned, the theatre has a very industrial aesthetic, with soaring ceilings and lots of metal.

Hearn Theatre LuminatoThe walls are made of corrugated steel and the box seats along the sides are made from the shipping containers. The lighting is very soft with pot lights in the box seats, adding to the lonely, stripped-down feel. With raked seating and a long stage, the load-bearing columns don't obstruct any views or take away from the performance.

Hearn Theatre LuminatoThough the theatre's factory-esque vibe is enough to distinguish it from a run-of-the-mill playhouse, the highlight of the space is the on-stage seating. The theatre is constructed in such a way that allows for a few rows of seating to be above and behind the stage, looking down on the action.

The James production took full advantage of this, with actors creating a 360 degree stage picture and playing heavily in the space between and around the on-stage audience members. It made for an intriguing and immersive experience that took the play to another level.

Hearn Theatre LuminatoWhere a traditional theatre play happens in front of you, the Hearn Theatre makes it possible for the play happen all around you and to you. Judging from audience members reactions, I'd say this added element was a hit.

Josephson agrees.

"The venue, the performers, and the audience members have an opportunity to intermingle in unconventional ways. The Hearn is a jaw-dropping spectacle - an architectural performance in its own right that's impossible to ignore. But it also becomes like a companion, witnessing the performances and installations with you."

Hearn Theatre LuminatoThe theatre is temporary at present, but those behind Luminato and the transformation of the Hearn hope to show off the vast potential of this former industrial space as a long term arts hub. A permanent theatre like this would be a major boon for Toronto.

Photos by Hector Vasquez and Andrew Williamson.

The top Pride Toronto 2016 parties by day of the week

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pride parties torontoPride parties have already started to take Toronto by storm, and they're only going to get bigger and better. The final two-week stretch of this year's celebrations feature everything from parties at major cultural institutions to hot and sweaty basements. This year more than ever, people are coming together as a community to dance, celebrate and love.

Here's where to party for Pride this year in Toronto.

TOP PICKS

PRIDE TORONTO: Fright Night Live - Colour ROM Proud / Friday, June 24 / 7 p.m. / $15
Gays invade the ROM for one-night-only of dancing, performances, food and dranks. Six DJs, two soundscape rooms, one dance troupe, a gay men's chorus, four drag queens and some half naked gogo dancers pump up the stages and rooms of the museum. Say hayyy to the dinosaurs with food and drinks and help them colour the ROM proud.

PRIDE TORONTO: A Night at the AQUEERium / Sunday, June 26 / 8 p.m. / $50
Live out your Splash fantasies and party inside Ripley's Aquarium with Australia's DJ Kitty Glitter, mermaid drag queens and dancers in the water. Some enchantment under the sea to remember.

PRIDE TORONTO: Two-spirit Rainbow Pow Wow / Friday, July 1 / 7 p.m. / Free
Giving voices to all types of communities under the rainbow is what it's all about, right? This stage shines a light on our two-spirit with a night of Indigenous art, culture and music with two-spirit dancers, DJ Shub (A Tribe Called Red), and performances from Shawnee and Digging Roots. This event was programmed by and for two-spirit people, and their allies.

Fit Primpin' / Friday, July 1 / 10 p.m. / $30
Fit Primpin' returns this year with a new location and new guests. Combining the powers of west end gay staples Fit and Big Primpin', this party swirls with R&B, hip hop, dancehall, pop and house. This time the crew takes over Steam Whistle Brewery with Chicago's Banjee Report and go go hunks SpeciesBeing and Rify Royalty.

Cherry Bomb Pride / Saturday, July 2 / 10 p.m. / $20
There are so many amazing dance parties for lesbians this year, it's making me giddy. Cherry Bomb is always a massive highlight. With regulars Denise Benson and Cozmic Cat at the helm, they've invited Recklezz and Vancouver's Kasey Riot. There will be tons of visuals and two rooms of fun at the Mod Club.

PRIDE TORONTO: Tree House Party / Sunday, July 3 / 1 p.m. / $20
I want to recommend everything the Green Space Festival does every year. All they do is raise money for the 519 Community Centre with some of the best parties. Tree House is kind of the mother hen of parties. The Ryerson Quad is transformed into a giant, grassy dance club with DJs Sex Shooters, Yinon Yahel, and of course Isaac Escalante.

PRIDE TORONTO: Fist / Sunday, July 3 / 2 p.m. / Free
This is a party on a stage on Church Street run by New York culture queen Juliana Huxtable. Women and trans allies are in total control of the day and night of programming with Kim Ahn, Bambii, Sun Sun and Sigourney Beaver spinning for freaks.

PRIDE TORONTO: Drag On! Yonge-Dundas Square / Saturday, July 2 / 2 p.m. / Free
A drag marathon for the ages! Hosted by Lady Bunny and Bianca Del Rio, head to Yonge-Dundas Square and catch 50 local drag queens and kings, some Rupaul Drag Race faves and Pride's attempt to set the Guinness Book of World Records title for largest drag performance.

Hot Nuts: Summerwinds / Saturday, July 2 / 10 p.m. / $20
There's no party on planet earth like Hot Nuts. It barely belongs on this Earth! To celebrate 10 years of deep, delicious and weird house and outfits, they're bringing Austin's Christeene back for a filthy performance. DJs Produzentin and Das Hussy spin alongside hosts Mary Messhausen, Buzz and Peg Zilla.

PRIDE TORONTO: Blockorama / Sunday, July 3 / 12 p.m. / Free
The festival's longest running showcase is an activist-based, community focused outdoor party by Blackness Yes! Alabama troupe Prancing Elites will perform, and so will soca queen Alison Hinds and D'bi Young & The 333. On top of that, some of Toronto's finest DJs will keep the party poppin' all day.

PARTIES BY DAY OF THE WEEK

Wednesday, June 22

Thursday, June 23

Friday, June 24

Saturday, June 25

Sunday, June 26

Monday, June 27

Wednesday, June 29

Thursday, June 30

Friday, July 1

Saturday, July 2

Sunday, July 3

Did I miss any parties? We'd love to know more, so let our readers know in the comments section below!

Photo from the Green Space Festival.

Now you can do Hamilton karaoke in Toronto

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hamilton karaokeEven though we live in Toronto, it seems like our city is going gaga for Hamilton right now, along with the rest of the world. But just you wait because even though the real show won't arrive here for a while, Hamilton karaoke is on its way.

The locally based company Walk on Water Theatre is hosting this sing-along event at the Cameron House on Tuesday, July 5 at 8 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale this Tuesday (June 21) and you can sign up to sing starting on June 28. So get yourself in front of a crowd and belt out "Burn" or grab a few friends for perennial favourite "The Schuyler Sisters" (work).

If you need some inspiration, take a look these Toronto students absolutely crushing Lin-Manuel Miranda's Tony Award-winning show.

Photo via the Hamilton Facebook page.

Street Style: 20 hot summer looks on King West

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street style torontoThe heat has been turned up in Toronto, and the city's collective fashion choices reflect sun-filled skies and sticky weather. Tank tops, loose-fitting pants and dresses abound on city streets. Yesterday we caught up with locals as they worked, shopped and spent a humid Thursday near King and Portland.

Name: Natia
Occupation: Branding solutions
My style: Semi professional

street style torontoName: Kira
Occupation: Makeup artist
My style: Depends on my mood

street style torontoName: Brian
Occupation: Student
My style: Skater

street style torontoName: Linda
Occupation: Account Manager
My style: Pretty eclectic

street style torontoName: Riley
Occupation: Real estate agent
My style: Very casual

street style torontoName: Sydney
Occupation: Student
My style: Simple and classic

street style torontoName: Odessa
Occupation: Fashion Editor
My style: Summery

street style torontoName: Cyma
Occupation: Analyst
My style: Funny

street style torontoName: Mutesi
Occupation: Account manager
My style: Preppy meets boho

street style torontoName: Alana
Occupation: Student
My style: Tomboy

street style torontoName:Meghan
Occupation: Writer
My style: Not bike friendly

street style torontoName: Cassie
Occupation: Lifestyle blogger
My style: Fun and wild

street style torontoName: Uvibe
Occupation: Music Producer
My style: Long draping clothes

street style torontoName: Emily
Occupation: Marketing
My style: Whatever I feel like

street style torontoName: Josh
Occupation: Student
My style: Lazy

street style torontoName: Kevin
Occupation: Personal trainer
My style: Sporty

street style torontoName: Jennifer
Occupation: Student
My style: Street/formal

street style torontoName: Shelby
Occupation: Artist
My style: Myself

street style torontoName: Megan
Occupation: Lifestyle brand owner
My style: Canadian designers mixed with fast fashion

street style torontoName: Robin
Occupation: Sidekick
My style: Colourful, fun and artsy

Thanks to Magnum for sponsoring this post

Photos by Mauricio Calero.

Ex-Dragon Den star selling $20 million Toronto mansion

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Robert HerjavecShark Tank's Robert Herjavec (you know, the former Dragon and Dancing with the Stars alum?) is selling his Toronto mansion. It's obviously located in the Bridle Path neighbourhood and it's listed for $18.8 million.

Robert HerjavecAlong with 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, it features amenities like an "exquisite ballroom," an in-home theatre, a neo-classical looking indoor pool, a teahouse and a tennis court. Basically, you'd never get bored at this estate.

Here are some more photos to drool over:

Robert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert HerjavecRobert Herjavecbridal path torontobridal path torontoWorth the $20 million? Let us know in the comments.


What kind of condo does $500K get you in Toronto?

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500K condo Toronto$500K is a defining price point for a Toronto condo that says a lot about the current real estate. For a half a million bucks, you'd expect to get roomy living space with some decent amenities, which you can - but only if you pick and choose your location wisely.

Here's what kind of a condo $500K buys you in Toronto.

$479,000 in Yorkville
If you have 500 grand to spend on a condo, that'll get you into the coveted Yorkville/Annex market, but without an abundance of space. This unit is a one bedroom plus den, but also has a balcony and a parking spot. The 550 square foot space is pretty but quite open (the bedroom has a glass wall). Maintenance fees are $377.57.

500K condo Toronto$499,000 on St. Clair West
This building is located right at St. Clair and Bathurst in the heart of a rapidly intensifying neighbourhood. Your $500K buys you two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a parking space, and two storage lockers. The space doesn't have a huge wow-factor, but it's functional and spacious. Maintenance fees are $592.66.

500K condo Toronto$478,000 near Queen West
If you want a condo in the heart of the Entertainment District, just under $500K will get you two small bedrooms at this building near Richmond and Peter. Amenities are nice here with a workout centre, rooftop cabanas, and a steam room. Monthly fees are pegged at $397.60, and there's one parking spot.

500K condo Toronto$505,000 at Jarvis and Charles
This gorgeous unit on Charles St. has received numerous upgrades to its appliances, cabinetry and flooring, which shows. The one bedroom plus den is smart-looking but probably not the best place for a young family based on the size and upscale design of the space. Maintenance fees are $415 a month.

500K condo$479,900 at Davenport and Lansdowne
Located near the highly successful Foundry Lofts, this modern two bedroom plus den townhouse is spread across two floors and features a small terrace. Bang for your buck is high here, as maintenance fees also come it at less than $300 a month. This is a neighbourhood on the rise, and the condo serves as a reminder than you can get some space at this price point.

500K condo Toronto$499,800 at Yonge and Sheppard
You'll get almost 700 square feet at Yonge and Sheppard divided between living space and a bedroom plus den scenario. There's also a 100 square foot balcony for personal outdoor space. This condo isn't particularly remarkable, though. Given its location at a transit nexus, this unit doesn't come cheap. Maintenance fees come in at $459.97, which include use of a party room.

Would you buy any of these units? Let us know in the comments.

Toronto gets a Harley-Davidson-themed cafe

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Harley Davidson CafeToronto's newest cafe will make you feel like the leader of the pack (vroom, vroom). That's because this pop-up coffee shop at 96 Ossington Ave. is Harley-Davidson-themed.

Dubbed 1903 (the year the Harleys and the Davidsons founded the world-famous motorcycle company), the large warehouse-like space features both new and vintage bikes as well as surprisingly good coffee and plenty of seating room.

Harley Davidson CafeAlthough high quality joe should be expected considering Fahrenheit Coffee runs the bar.

Harley Davidson cafeI grab a deliciously creamy, yet strong cortado ($3.45) when I visit, but you can also choose from your standard lineup of caffeinated beverages.

harley davidson cafeDrip coffee ($1.70-$2), cappuccinos ($3.60-$4) and cold brew ($5) are among the offerings here.

harley davidson cafePastries run the gamut from cookies to croissant.

Harley Davidson CafeBut if you pop in, you're probably not here for just java; you're here to ogle at the bikes.

harley davidson cafeAnd that's precisely why Harley-Davidson moved onto Ossington in the first place.

Harley Davidson cafeAnoop Prakash, the managing director for Harley-Davidson Canada, tells me that most of his company's GTA dealerships are in the suburbs, in areas such as Richmond Hill, Mississauga and Oshawa. This cafe lets the motorcycle brand have a presence downtown.

Harley Davidson CafeWith bikes peppered throughout the cafe, including models that are more suitable for urban drivers, 1903 acts as sort of a shrine to all things Harley-Davidson with old photos, posters and pieces of memorabilia on the walls. There's even a garage area called The Shed that'll host workshops and classes as well as a ride simulator.

Harley Davidson CafeIf you're obsessed with Hogs or just wanted to dream about riding away into the sunset, you can visit this Harley-Davidson brand activation until September.

Harley Davidson Cafe TorontoPhotos by Jesse Milns.

Now you can drink a cotton candy latte in Toronto

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CutiePie Cupcakes TorontoAlong with serving up mini cupcakes and whoopie pies, this bake shop and cafe doles out espresso-based beverages, including epic-looking and sugary sweet cotton candy lattes - they're affectionately referred to as lattie pies.

Read my profile of CutiePie Cupcakes in the bakery section.

The top 5 healthy brunch restaurants in Toronto

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healthy brunch torontoBrunch in Toronto is usually synonymous with indulgent dishes, boozy cocktails and that artery-clogging combination of bacon, cheese, eggs and bread. If cheat day has already come and gone, don't sulk because there are healthy options abound.

Here are my top picks for healthy brunch spots in Toronto.

Impact Kitchen
This Corktown eatery offers avocado toast on superfood bread, chia bowls and BLT boxes all week, but on Saturday and Sunday, it breaks out the big guns. Gluten-free waffles topped with fresh fruit and veggie frittatas are available starting at 9 a.m.

Harvest Kitchen
The flexitarian menu features hearty power breakfasts with organic eggs, twice-baked
beans, pico de gallo, guac' and a Red Fife English muffin. It's vegetarian by default but you can add on a strip of peameal bacon if you're craving extra protein. And there's a whole lineup of elixirs, smoothies, and spritzers to wash everything down.

Kupfert & Kim
The PATH locations might not be open on the weekend, but the K&K outpost on Spadina is. The weekend brunch menu offers house-made granola, buckwheat, oats and tapioca waffles, congee and smoothie bowls. It brews Sam James' Cut Coffee, so that's always a bonus.

The Beet
This all-organic eatery in the Junction dishes out huevos rancheros made with baked eggs on blue corn tortillas as well as other delicious-sounding egg dishes. Most menu items are billed as meat-free, but you can always add on a side of bacon.

Evolution Food Co.
It's not easy to exercise willpower in the St. Lawrence Market. Luckily, this eatery offers plenty of healthy brunch options. Start with a smoothie or a Greek yogurt bowl, or fill up on eggs in a baked avocado cup with roasted tomatoes and tzatziki.

Add your favourite spot for healthy brunching in the comments.

Photo of The Beet by Hector Vasquez.

What it's like to be a tour guide in Toronto

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tour guide torontoWe meet on the front steps at Old City Hall. It's a scorching hot afternoon and the area's packed with office workers, ice cream trucks and cabs. Maybe today wasn't the best time to join a free walking tour of my hometown.

Clearly others disagree because about 30 people - from places like New York City, Germany, South Korea and the Netherlands - gather around our tour guide Tim, eager learn the ins-and-outs of Toronto.

I'm on the Tour Guys's Old Town Toronto History Tour, it's supposed to teach me about death, disease and destruction: my second favourite Triple D designation. (This, of course, is my number one.) After taking a slew of walking tours abroad in various cities in Western Europe and Israel, I'm curious about what they're like here at home, especially now that tourism is booming in Toronto.

According to Tourism Toronto, we welcomed approximately 14.03 million overnight visitors to the city in 2015. It's unclear whether or not Drake had anything to do with that record-breaking number.

And with all these tourists, someone must be showing them around the city. Sure, they can take the obnoxious red double-decker buses around town, but those are expensive and well, obnoxious. Many choose to take a different route and rely on free walking tours from companies such as the Tour Guys.

Founders Steve Woodall and Jason Kucherawy both have a background in educational tourism, but back in 2009, they wanted to branch out. "We both wanted to start offering walking tours in our respective cities," says Kucherawy, who's from Toronto. Woodall's from Vancouver.

"We based our company model on the free tours that were very popular in Europe." This means that while their tours are technically free, their guides rely solely on tips to make money (basically, it's a major no-no not to tip at all).

My triple D tour guide Tim says he's been working with the Tour Guys for about one year. He has degrees in history and theatre, making him the ideal candidate for this gig. While he's originally from Adelaide, Australia, he's called Toronto home for the past three-and-a-half years. And he definitely knows his shit.

I join the part of the tour from City Hall to the MacKenzie House. As we walk up Yonge Street and through Yonge-Dundas Square, he chats with participants and answers their questions about the 6ix. While this tour seems to be filled with visitors, not all of them are. Kucherawy also runs some for Urban Adventures, which often attract locals.

Along with taking people through Kensington Market and Chinatown, he leads one about craft beer and another he calls "When Pigs Fry," a bacon, pork and Hogtown history tour, which stops at places like Wvrst and Porchetta & Co. "I basically take people to restaurants where I would take friends from out of town and tie it all into Toronto's history as a pork-producing centre as Hogtown," he says.

Foodies on Foot, which relies on public transit for its tours, also has a local clientele. Founder Steven Hellmann thinks Torontonians are eager to learn more about the city, especially its food culture. As people from around the world are taking more interest in Toronto, it seems like locals are turning inwards too.

And while it might be nerve-wracking to lead locals through their hometown, Kucherawy finds it especially gratifying. "The best complement we can receive is when someone says, 'I'm a local, I've lived here my whole life and I never knew that or I've never been here before.'" And I definitely upped my Toronto knowledge on my tour last week, so thanks Tim.

Photo via the Tour Guys on Facebook.

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