Spring is here and the city is alive and well with plenty of arts, shopping, food and more to enjoy! From a summer party under the Gardiner to an anime convention, here are 10 things to do in Toronto this week.
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Attend an LGBTQ+ film fest
The Inside Out Toronto LGBTQ+ film festival is back this week from Friday to June 1, and it’s known to be an underrated festival for some of the most incredible queer films in Canada and around the world. See movies celebrating and exploring 2SLGBTQ+ stories both in person and online, including opening night gala film Outerlands.
Explore the city’s most historic buildings
Are you the kind of person who wants to explore new spaces and get to know a city inside and out? One weekend a year, you can do just that — thanks to Doors Open Toronto. You can take a peek inside some of the city’s architectural, historical, cultural and socially significant buildings and uncover some untold stories.
Head to an anime convention
Anime lovers will be descending upon the city this weekend from Friday to Sunday for Anime North. The convention celebrates anime, manga, music, games and all other forms of Japanese culture. The three-day event will feature panels, workshops, creative contests, cosplay, fashion swaps and more.
Cool off at Splash Works’ opening weekend
The forecast is finally looking warm this weekend — and with that comes the need to find places to cool off from the beating sun. Luckily, Canada’s Wonderland is opening its massive 20-acre waterpark, Splash Works, on Saturday. You can enjoy Canada’s largest outdoor wave pool, 18 water attractions, cliff jumping, water playgrounds, a Lazy River and a boomerang waterslide raft adventure.
Be in harmony at a vocal arts fest
If you love harmonies and can’t resist an a cappella moment, don’t miss SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival, happening from Saturday to June 1. The event will feature performances across various venues in Toronto, along with events that include concerts, workshops and competitions that celebrate vocal talent in Canada and beyond.
Join a summer party on the Bentway
It’s a s summer party and everyone is invited! The Bentway is hosting a summer opening night party on Friday to kick off the season with a festive gathering under the Gardiner. The event will feature food trucks, bar service, a Sunglasses at Night fashion show by Fashion Art Toronto and a new public art exhibition titled Sun/Shade.
Catch your favourite artist in concert
On Wednesday, Mayday Parade takes the stage at History while The Kiffness performs at The Danforth Music Hall. Then, catch Chilliwack as they perform at Massey Hall and Cypress Hill at Coca-Cola Coliseum, all on Thursday. Friday, anees takes the stage at The Danforht Music Hall and Teddy Swims performs at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Also on Friday, you can see Austin Mills at DPRTMNT or the incredible Billy Idol at Budweiser Stage. Finally, on Saturday Jason Aldean performs at Budweiser Stage, while Central Cee has a weekend run at History.
Travel to Neverland with Peter Pan
Fly away to Neverland this week with a new adaptation of the theatrical and literary classic, Peter Pan. Brought back to life by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, follow Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and the Darling children in a theatre production that will make you feel like a kid again.
See your favourite board game come to life on stage
Your favourite board game is also a hilarious stage production! Based on the fan-favourite 1985 movie and inspired by the classic game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will keep you guessing. It premieres on Tuesday in Toronto and runs until June 8.
Enjoy Star Wars in concert
Get immersed in the fifth episode of the Star Wars saga with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. From Thursday to Sunday, watch as the Imperial Forces launch an attack on the Rebel Alliance and encounter the wise Jedi Master Yoda — all while the orchestra plays the iconic score live.
For more events happening this month, click here.
