12 h. ago Upcoming Toronto festival will have more than 250 varieties of taco

There's a massive taco festival coming to Toronto this summer, and 45 different restaurants in Toronto are getting in on the fun.Summertime in Toronto is to tacos as winter is to the Distillery District Winter Village, which is to say that it just wouldn't be the same without it, so it's only fitting that the summer should be flooded with a variety of taco-based events to celebrate.Perhaps the biggest of the entire season is Taco Fest, which is set to return to Toronto for its ninth year this August.Whether you're a birria, pollo or carnitas fanatic, this festival has most certainly got you covered, featuring 45 Toronto restaurants that, combined, will be offering over 250 different varieties of the Mexican street food staple.While the entire food lineup of the festival has yet to be revealed, the early teasers already suggest that it's going to be a muy caliente event, indeed, with local staples like Placos Tacos, Birria Catrin...

Culture

12 h. ago Upcoming Toronto festival will have more than 250 varieties of tacos

There's a massive taco festival coming to Toronto this summer, and 45 different restaurants in Toronto are getting in on the fun.Summertime in Toronto is to tacos as winter is to the Distillery District Winter Village, which is to say that it just wouldn't be the same without it, so it's only fitting that the summer should be flooded with a variety of taco-based events to celebrate.Perhaps the biggest of the entire season is Taco Fest, which is set to return to Toronto for its ninth year this August.Whether you're a birria, pollo or carnitas fanatic, this festival has most certainly got you covered, featuring 45 Toronto restaurants that, combined, will be offering over 250 different varieties of the Mexican street food staple.While the entire food lineup of the festival has yet to be revealed, the early teasers already suggest that it's going to be a muy caliente event, indeed, with local staples like Placos Tacos, Birria Catrin...

Culture

22 h. ago Toronto neighbourhood throwing a surprise street festival this weekend

Toronto's Baldwin Village is about to come alive this Saturday, July 5, as local merchants band together for an impromptu street party that promises to bring big energy to one of the city's most underrated neighbourhoods.The one-day celebration will feature a dynamic mix of music, food, art, and dance, plus at least a couple of artisan markets; there's the potential for a surprise fashion show, too! Each business along Baldwin is curating its own lineup of talent, and so far, the street is shaping up to host a mix of live bands, DJs, visual artists, and performers.It's a grassroots event in every sense. There's no formal street closure (yet), no major sponsors, or flashy branding; it’s just a collective effort by independent business owners who want to breathe new life into this little tucked-away village. Despite being home to some of the most charming patios and low-key restaurants in the city, it still flies under the radar for many Torontonians. But thi...

Culture

24 h. ago 'Anything can happen': Edmonton Street Performers Festival hits the square

The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival comes back to Sir Winston Churchill Square, July 4 to 13

Culture

5 d. ago Director Domee Shi shares her favourite places to go in Toronto

Domee Shi has grown from local Toronto upbringing to become one of the most sought-after directors in the movie business, and while she may have gone Hollywood on us, she clearly hasn't lost touch with her roots in the 416.In a recent interview with blogTO, the Turning Red director opened up about her favourite things about Toronto, ranging from current hangouts to nostalgic locations that only remain in the history books.Here are Domee Shi's favourite things about Toronto.Favourite neighbourhood - Kensington MarketThe confluence of gritty and trendy is a favourite Toronto neighbourhood for many, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and few remaining businesses from the area's heyday as a predominantly food and grocery-oriented market.Favourite place to get work done - her parents' houseYou probably won't be able to share Shi's top spot to catch up on work, naming her parents' house as the place to crunch. "That's all I remember. Doin...

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5 d. ago Montgomery BIA launches Calgary's first 'Chalk On The Block' street festival

If you’re a wizard with chalk on the hunt for an opportunity to showcase what you can do, the Montgomery Business Improvement Area (BIA) may have the perfect answer for you. On Saturday afternoon, the BIA launched Calgary’s first-ever “Chalk On The Block,” a street festival where artists of all ages and talent can show […]

Culture

6 d. ago Toronto cafe tied to bookstore abruptly shuts down without any warning

A cafe in Toronto that was a local staple in its neighbourhood has abruptly closed its doors.What pairs better with a good book than a fresh latte or a cup of tea? Nothing, that's what, and that's exactly the philosophy that led BMV Books, Canada's largest used and discounted bookstore, to open its very own cafe right next door to its Bloor West "superstore."The BMV Cafe served up a selection of classic coffee- and tea-based beverages and light snacks, while also adding to the chain's retail footprint by selling even more used literature and knick-knacks.While the cafe itself only opened its doors in 2023, it quickly became a neighbourhood staple in the Annex, particularly among BMV's throngs of devoted customers, who lept at the opportunity to pair their latest purchase with a caffeinated beverage and a snack or to browse the cafe's selection of three-for-$10 comic books and magazines.Despite the bounty of love the cafe amassed over its short, two-...

Other

7 d. ago Timeless $4.5 million Toronto home hides stunning modern interiors

If you've been house hunting and feel like you've seen one too many soulless, millenial grey boxes with "open concept" stamped on it like a buzzword, let me introduce you to a house that is none of those things.9 Lynwood Ave. is timeless red brick house located on a quiet, leafy street in Toronto's South Hill neighbourhood just steps from top-rated schools, green space, and the citys best amenities. Already off to a great start. But the biggest selling point of this home, in my opinion and realtor Gillian Oxley's, is the fact that this house retains much of its delightful original Arts and Crafts roots while still being a practical modern day family home. The foyer. You're welcomed into 9 Lynwood Ave. with a light-drenched foyer with heated floors, a gas fireplace, and a built-in bench that's original to the house. Chefs kiss. The living room. The home, boasting 4,4...

Economics

9 d. ago Toronto's Kensington Market losing yet another longtime independent business

A beloved Toronto fishmonger that's been a neighbourhood cornerstone for over a decade is closing down at the end of the month.Kensington Market is among the most community-centric neighbourhoods in Toronto; a tall order, considering the city's growing population and residents' increasing tendency to stick within their own circles.It's this exact community-first attitude in Kensington that's allowed the neighbourhood to foster a number of legendary local spots, from Courage My Love to Augusta Fruit Market and many in between.Local fishmonger business, Hooked Inc., is one such stalwart.The business was born in 2011, when founders Kristin and Dan Donovan opened Hooked's original location in Leslieville, selling some of the highest-quality, sustainably caught, local seafood in the city, and their Kensington location quickly followed in 2012.Hooked didn't have a monopoly on the fresh fish business along Baldwin Street, with other local staples like Sea Kings ...

Economics

9 d. ago Toronto business around since 1970 is throwing a street festival for Canada Day

One Toronto business is getting extra cheesy this Canada Day by transforming its entire street into a huge festival in honour of the holiday.We all knew that Toronto, and the rest of the country, for that matter, would be taking Canada Day celebrations to new heights for 2025, as national pride soars in the face of tariff-related tensions with our neighbours to the south.It's not just friend groups getting together for backyard barbecues or heading up north for an extra-long cottage weekend, though; Toronto's businesses also seem to be doubling down on Canada Day celebrations this year, and Etobicoke's Cheese Boutique is one of them.On Tuesday, July 1, the stalwart local cheese shop is shutting down the entirety of Ripley Avenue for an evening of celebrations in the style of a good old-fashioned carnival. Think of it as a warm-up for the CNE later this summer.The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, as the street comes to life with ...

Economics

1 week ago 145 people reportedly attacked with syringes at a street festival, 12 suspects arrested

'Syringe assault': The festival, called Fete de la Musique, took place at locations across France and attracted millions of festival-goers

Events

1 week ago 145 people attacked with syringes at a street festival, 12 suspects arrested

'Syringe assault': The festival, called Fete de la Musique, took place at locations across France and attracted millions of festival-goers

Events

2 w. ago Toronto brewery shares touching goodbye message ahead of closure

A local Toronto brewery that was a neighbourhood staple just announced that it'll soon be closing down for good.The first time I was brought to Riverside's Saulter Street Brewery, I was fairly certain that the friend who invited me was attempting to kidnap me.Located down an alley off Queen Street East, through a parking lot and down another alley, I don't think my concerns were entirely baseless, but upon entering the cozy space, bedecked with barrels and fermenters, boardgames and a surprisingly large number of patrons for a Tuesday afternoon, I knew it was something special.I'm not the only person who feels that way about Saulter Street Brewery. Over the past eight years, they've become a neighbourhood beacon, both for those in the know and the brave souls willing to follow a single sidewalk sandwich board pointing down the alley.All of their brews, which range from ales to howlers, are made in-house and are also stocked on the shelves at the LCBO, but, if you...

Other

2 w. ago International cafe known for its baked goods is opening two new Ontario locations

World-renowned Korean bakery chain Paris Baguette is gearing up to open its latest Toronto location, this time taking on a brand-new neighbourhood.Despite opening its first Canadian location at the Yonge-Sheppard Centre in North York just over two years ago, Paris Baguette has more than made its mark on Toronto's culinary scene.Over its nearly 40 years in business, the South Korea-founded global chain has made a name for itself serving up sweet confections that are almost as delightful to look at as they are to eat, including mochi donuts, impeccably layered trifles, cream-filled croissants and bombolone.They even serve up some unique savoury options, like croissant-wrapped hot dogs and crabmeat-filled croquettes.Nowadays, the chain, recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in the world by Entrepreneur, boasts 4000 locations worldwide, including the two additional locations that have opened in the city in the years that followed: a Yorkville flagship ...

Society

3 w. ago Huge Vietnamese street food festival coming to Toronto next month

An epic food festival celebrating Vietnamese cuisine and culture is taking over downtown Toronto this summer.As someone who can always — and I mean always — get behind some Vietnamese food, I may be biased, but gorging myself on Banh Mi and Bun Cha under the sun is quite possibly the perfect way to spend a summer day.If you're anything like me, then you're in luck, because a huge, three-day-long festival celebrating Vietnamese food and culture is setting up shop in the heart of the city next month. I'm already drooling.Taste of Vietnam began as a grassroots operation with just a handful of local volunteers and has since blossomed into one of the ultimate multicultural celebrations of the summer in Toronto, and this year they're marking their fifth anniversary with the biggest and best event yet.Taking over Nathan Phillips Square from July 24 to 26, the festival is set to host dozens of local Vietnamese and fusion street food favourites, including Marry Me...

Culture

3 w. ago Entire Toronto neighbourhood will be taken over by epic food festival this weekend

Put on your stretchy pants and prepare to sample eats from some of the best restaurants in Toronto, because Taste of Little Italy is coming back this weekend.Whether you're a certified foodie or just enjoy a good summer street festival, you're in luck this weekend, because Taste of Little Italy is set to house over 200 local businesses from the neighbourhood and beyond, serving up droolworthy eats and unique treasures to treat yourself to.From long-standing local legends like Riviera Bakery and Bella Vista to trendy newer additions like Bear Steak Sandwiches, Susie's Rise and Dine and The Radici Project, there's truly something for everyone in the mix at this year's festival, but it's not only about the food.This year, the festival will also feature a brand-new main stage, which will serve as the go-to spot for live entertainment for the entire weekend. You'll be able to catch everything from cooking demonstrations to live DJ sets, and even...

Culture

4 w. ago Road closures set to make for weekend of nightmare traffic in Toronto

Getting around Toronto on any given weekend is a challenge, but the coming days and all of the events they hold to kick off the summer season are going to make things even worse than usual for road users.On top of streets shutting down for things like Do West Fest, there is all of the existing roadwork that is already causing lane closures on various arteries, TTC closures, and happenings that, even though they won't actually shutter any roads, will cause some additional congestion to consider.Here are the various closures that motorists, surface transit users, cyclists and even pedestrians should keep in mind as they plan their weekend:Do West FestDundas Street West between Lansdowne and Shaw will be shuttered from 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, to 12 a.m. on Monday, June 9, 2025, for this annual street festival, which sees approximately one million people flood the streets to party and enjoy local businesses.Toronto police note that north and southbound traffic wi...

Transport

4 w. ago An entire Toronto neighbourhood is hosting an enormous garage sale this weekend

More than 100 houses in one Toronto neighbourhood are joining forces this weekend to put on the ultimate garage sale.Though 2024 may have marked the 25th anniversary for the annual Golden Triangle Giant Garage Sale, the Toronto community demarcated by the boundaries of O'Connor Drive, Pape Avenue and Donlands Avenue (as well as a few homes outside those boundaries) isn't pulling any punches for the event's 26th edition this weekend.Taking place on Saturday, June 7, over 100 homes spread across 13 streets in the east end neighbourhood are showing off the fruits of their spring cleaning for an epic, one-day garage sale.Expect everything from gently used sports equipment to new threads, decor, books, and all the weird and wonderful finds you'd expect from a garage sale. The added bonus is that if you don't find anything you like, you can rest assured that there's another sale going on just down the street.Some homes are even planning to sell food, like...

Other

4 w. ago Entire Toronto neighbourhood hosting enormous garage sale this weekend

More than 100 houses in one Toronto neighbourhood are joining forces this weekend to put on the ultimate garage sale.Though 2024 may have marked the 25th anniversary for the annual Golden Triangle Giant Garage Sale, the Toronto community demarcated by the boundaries of O'Connor Drive, Pape Avenue and Donlands Avenue (as well as a few homes outside those boundaries) isn't pulling any punches for the event's 26th edition this weekend.Taking place on Saturday, June 7, over 100 homes spread across 13 streets in the east end neighbourhood are showing off the fruits of their spring cleaning for an epic, one-day garage sale.Expect everything from gently used sports equipment to new threads, decor, books, and all the weird and wonderful finds you'd expect from a garage sale. The added bonus is that if you don't find anything you like, you can rest assured that there's another sale going on just down the street.Some homes are even planning to sell food, like...

Other

4 w. ago Toronto neighbourhood favourite for fresh salads has permanently closed

A restaurant that served up fresh and simple salads in Toronto's Riverdale neighbourhood has officially closed its doors following three years in business.Founded in 2022 by chef Kyle Fisher, Pulse Salad & Restaurant, formerly located at 821 Gerrard St. E., took inspiration from European, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines to create hearty salad bowls. The menu included its signature mighty Caesar, fattoush, falafel and caprese dishes.Beyond salads, the restaurant carried its commitment to simple and clean ingredients into its entrees as well, which included falafel with tahini and pickled onion, roasted chicken and silken tofu.The restaurant took to social media last month to announce its heartbreaking closure, sharing with followers that "this is not how we expected Pulse to conclude." The last day of operation was May 30.    View this post on Instagram          &nb...

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