The Toronto Waterfront Festival returns this summer and it’s celebrating the two-day celebration with a huge surprise. A fleet of massive historic ships will take over the waterfront for the occasion.
On June 28 and 29, 2025, the award-winning Toronto Waterfront Festival, in partnership with the Waterfront BIA, will showcase the history, culture, and importance of water.
Enjoy nautical attractions, arts, culture, and Indigenous entertainment. Of course, there will be music, food, and interactive activities.
The festival is free to attend and enjoy. This year, however, the experience brings six historic tall ships to the waterfront.
Historic tall ships
“We are incredibly excited to welcome the tall ships back to Toronto’s waterfront,” says Michael Riehl, chair of Water’s Edge Festivals & Events.
“It’s been six years since Torontonians and visitors have had the opportunity to tour these unique ships. Each of these iconic vessels has a unique story to tell, and we’re thrilled to give our visitors the chance to experience them firsthand.”
According to organizers, the tall ships visit the festival every three years. So if you don’t want to wait until the next time they return, this is your chance to see them in person.
What to expect
Though it won’t cost you a dime to attend, visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to get onboard the ships.
These are the ships you can expect:
- Empire Sandy: Canada’s largest tall ship of her kind.
- Ernestina-Morrissey: Known for her unique place in immigration history.
- Liberty Clipper: Named after John Hancock’s revolutionary-era ship.
- Pride of Baltimore II: Has visited over 200 ports in 40 countries.
- Lettie G. Howard: Was built in 1893 and is one of the last surviving fishing schooners from the U.S.
- Canadian Coast Guard: Vessel TBC
Out of all six, visitors will have the chance to sail onboard the Empire Sandy. It will sail away four times a day, including a sunset sail at night.
“The tall ships are consistently a top draw for our festival, attracting visitors from across the province and beyond,” adds Riehl.
“Our 2019 festival featuring the tall ships attracted 250,000 visitors and generated nearly $6 million in economic impact for the city. While this year’s event won’t be quite as large, we are still expecting a wonderful turnout and exciting on-land activities for all.”
Mark your calendars and get ready for a thrilling summer festival. Though it’s only the first day of spring, we’re already excited about what the summer will bring.
Toronto Waterfront Festival 2025
When: June 28 and 29, 2025
Where: Toronto waterfront
Cost: Free festival // tickets for ships $40+
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