Canada will be celebrating its 145th birthday this weekend, which, of course, is reason to celebrate. Though Canada Day is usually synonymous with Cottage Day (or weekend) for many young professionals, here are the happenings you should be attending if you’re in the city for the long weekend.
Going Global at the Harbourfront Centre
Canada is a melting pot of cultures; what better way to celebrate our country’s diversity than a four-day party at the heart of Toronto’s waterfront? Celebrate the achievements of trailblazers and influential art forms that have left their mark on the Canadian cultural landscape, as well as artists and groups looking to redefine history and blaze a new trail. Highlights include an international marketplace, the newly-renovated World Cafe, various dance performances and workshops, and an Iron Chef poutine competition with some of the city’s top chefs on hand.
Last days of jazz
If you haven’t found the time to get out and experience the city’s Jazz Festival, make Canada Day weekend the time to do it. World-renowned Tower of Power will be performing at the Toronto Star Stage at Nathan Phillips Square at 8pm, which coincides perfectly with a fireworks display after.
Catch the Euro
With the prestigious European Championship down to the final four at time of writing, catch the final on July 1 at 2:45pm. With Portugal and Italy having a chance to advance, it’ll be a guaranteed street party along College and St. Clair West – just don’t get the exact intersections mixed up with the wrong jersey on. Germany and Spain, though with smaller representations in Toronto, also have a chance at taking home the title.
Indulge in the culinary scene
Two must-try restaurants recently opened in the city, along with a hidden gem of a wine bar, so why not make Canada Day weekend your excuse to splurge on some wining and dining.
Toronto’s beloved Origin restaurant opened a second location in Liberty Village this week, bringing its global cuisine to the West End.
Glas Wine Bar in Leslieville is fit for 20 with a delicious farm-to-table menu and wine list comparable to the city’s best.
A long-time favourite in Edmonton and Calgary, Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria is now open in Yorkdale Mall and set to rival the city’s top pizza destinations.
King West Block Party
Brant House and Cobra are teaming up to host a King West block party for the nightclub crowd. Not feeling one venue? No problem; head to the other. That’s the advantage of one party at two venues. Table reservations and bottle service available.
White Party on the Thompson Rooftop
The who’s who of Toronto’s social scene will be gathering on the Thompson rooftop (no surprise there) to mingle, dance and enjoy the season’s best cocktails. Going from 12pm to 3am, guests can spend the entire day enjoying what’s forecasted to be an exceptional weekend weather-wise. Start off with a private brunch on the Pavillion Patio, followed by a rooftop pool party and private cocktail soiree to round off the evening. The party then kicks into high gear with an all-access dance party around 10pm. Advance tickets are highly encouraged as this event will sell out.