One of the city’s hottest pre-summer block parties returns this weekend for a full day of dancing, pop-up performances and more. The NBS Block Party is bringing the summer heat to the city, and here’s what to know.
The National Ballet School (NBS) Block Party is returning Saturday, May 31, with a full day of dance workshops, live performances and family-friendly activities. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and all programming is open to the public at no cost.
What to expect
The festival-style celebration features 16 drop-in dance workshops taught by Toronto-based artists, including styles like Afrofusion, hip hop, Ballet, Powwow, Bollywood, and Classical Chinese dance. No previous experience is required.
Highlights from this year’s workshop lineup include Zahra Badua (Afrofusion), Sid Ryan Eilers (Queer Conscious Movement), Edz Gyamfi (Hip Hop), Nichole Leveck (Powwow) and Emilie Jabouin (Haitian Folk). All classes are open-level and designed to be accessible for participants of all ages and abilities.
In addition to the workshops, the event features live pop-up performances, giveaways, interactive rehearsal experiences and a dedicated kids’ zone. Food vendors and live music will also be on site.
The best part about all of this is that, thanks to support from event sponsors and donors, the event remains entirely free.
This year’s edition coincides with Pride Month celebrations, and the Block Party is an official partner of Toronto Pride. It’s also a 2025 Canadian Event Awards finalist.
Thousands are expected to attend, so get ready to mingle.
The event takes place outside the National Ballet School at 400 Jarvis St.
The NBS Block Party
When: May 31, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: NBS Campus, 400 Jarvis St.
Cost: Free
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