Toronto Weekender: July 17 through 20, 2014

It is closer to the end of July than the beginning.

Now re-read that.

If that fact doesn’t send chills down your spine (despite the heat) and offer you more than enough inspiration to get out and do everything you can with your weekend, then you’re only living the professional half of your young professional life.

Thursday

FREE LUNCH. Sorry to yell, but we needed to get your attention somehow. 

We’ve been telling you every day for nearly two weeks, but in case it’s somehow slipped your radar or you didn’t think you needed a free meal until right now, our #17nightsofsummerlicious contest will take you to Nota Bene tonight. 

A one-hour workout followed by cocktails. In other words, the Tryfit Pass launch event is like every workout. 

The Toronto Indie Arts Market has one of the great, self-explanatory names. But for those of you who need more, look for dozens of local artisans with art, food, fashion, and more.

The Crawford is hosting a Jack vs. Jim battle. You will get a free shot of both. And then your head will battle tomorrow.

The opening reception for a Vivian Maier exhibit is taking place at Bulger Gallery. Talk about moonlighting

If wine’s your jam than you’re obviously going to want to be at this Summer Wine Jam

So, sure, you have to be a 30 or 40-something to remember the impact Basement Jaxx had on the dance music scene in their prime. But even if you aren’t, we think they’ll have you shaking uncontrollably (you’ll call it dancing) at the Hoxton tonight. Seriously, don’t miss this.

Friday

Yes, the races are Saturday and Sunday, but the Toronto Indy has become so much more than just a bunch of cars driving in really fast circles.

Edgefest deconstructed its long-running, all-day, multi-stage music festival this year in favour of a series of shows throughout the summer at Echo Beach – this month’s lineup includes USS, MS MR, Wildlife, Said The Whale, Bear Hands and more.

Popular Vancouver outfitters Vancity Original are having a Toronto pop-up in Parkdale.

The 10-day long Beaches Jazz Festival kicks off its rhythm-filled run. Move beyond your Kenny G hate.

The cover band to end all cover bands will be playing all your favourite classic rock staples at Yonge-Dundas Square. If you somehow haven’t seen them yet, you’re making a huge mistake.

Joylister is back with another food event – this time going with International Street Food. Attend at your own risk.

Katy Perry is taking over Toronto, playing three shows in four nights. Tonight’s the first chance you get to hear her roar.

Saturday

We told you a long time ago how how great Bloordale was becoming, so don’t be surprised that they’re shutting down Bloor St. for a two-day festival. There’s a reason it’s called BIG On Bloor.

The Time Festival may only be one day, but it makes use of its limited time with a line-up that includes St. Lucia, Grimes, Action Bronson, Flume, Smith Westerns, and Charli XCX amongst others.

The 14th annual Chinatown Festival will take over Dundas W. (between Spadina and Beverley). Expect tons of international street food. Probably not fortune cookies, though.

The Amsterdam (416) Block Party is happening in Kensington Market and they’re bringing 3x as much beer as last time.

Going green is a great idea. Luckily, they have a festival for that.

The 10th annual Salsa on St. Clair Street Festival is definitely going to get caliente in a hurry.

Ever wanted a Taste of Thailand? Of course you have. Let’s just hope you vie for the cooking demos and massages rather than picking a fight with one of the Muay Thai teachers.

Six Danforth restaurants are turning up the heat to compete in Thrill of the Grill, with only one winner claiming Toronto’s best ribs and roasted corn.

As if drinking in an outdoor setting during the summer isn’t good enough, The King West Block Party will also unveil a limited edition Hope Sneaker by Sully Wong. Get your kicks here. 

A glow in the dark 5k with an after party? Obviously.

Former Stone Temple Pilots frontman Scott Weiland plays with his new backing band The Wildabouts. But after all the legal drama with his former band, you probably shouldn’t expect to hear anything like this.

A Polaris-nominated band of pure Canadian talent takes the stage at Wrongbar. Just another Saturday night in the city.

Sunday: 20

Like we told you, this is how you brunch. (Hint: there’s a rooftop patio involved.)

Or spend your Sunday morning meandering across the east end on the Leslieville Art Crawl.

If you enjoy a good mollusk you’re definitely not going to want to miss the 26th annual Ontario Oyster festival. Enter ‘shucks’ joke here.

YOUTH DAY Toronto 2014 will let you know exactly what the kids are up to these days.

The 11th annual Brazilfest is happening at Earlscourt Park, confusing everyone who just watched The World Cup and thought it was called Brazilfest.

If you didn’t listen to us on Thursday, you’ve already missed a free meal at The Fifth and Momofuku Noodle Bar. Tonight’s your very last chance to hit up our #17nightsofsummerlicious contest and end it all with a meal at one of Toronto’s best restaurants, Momofuku Daisho.

The (possibly) soon-to-be former Mr. Faith Hill will be playing the Amphitheatre for those of you who like to end your weekend with a line dance.

Of course, Stephen King in the park is always nice. Seriously, it’s Stand By Me.

Well, that’s it, that’s all.
Four days and more than 35 ways to spend them.
Just remember – FOMO isn’t real if you’re there.

Stay Notable,

The Weekender 

#NOTABLE

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Top photo courtesy Nota Bene