Toronto Weekender: June 20 through 23, 2013

‘Tis the first official weekend of summer, and nothing’s hotter than Toronto’s scene in the warm weather. Here’s what to get up to so you can kill the memories of winter for good…

Thursday
The big dinner ticket tonight is Seafood for Thought over at the Toronto Zoo. You’ll get to eat amongst the animals at this sustainable event, while eating the amazing cuisine of some of the city’s top chefs. It’s the perfect outing for any day of the week, but the best to kick off your killer weekend.

Love Louboutins, ladies? And gents, love ladies in Louboutins? Then you won’t want to miss tonight’s big gala shindig over at the Design Exchange. The official launch for the DX’s new exhibit that celebrates the career achievements of Christian Louboutin, this event will dazzle and delight as fashionistas walk the historic floors.

Friday
The final Friday Night Live at the ROM of the season is on Friday, and if you’ve missed it thus far, you simply must trot over. This party has everything: artifacts and education, live performances, food, drinks, and whatever else your heart desires. This is last until it’s back on next year, so be sure not to miss it.

Or, you can celebrate the solstice with Red Bull at Cabana Pool Bar. The latest hotspot to pop up on Toronto’s scene, Cabana Pool Bar is a mix of Miami chic and Vegas party, with cabanas (duh), DJs, pool, and more. Red Bull’s hosting a massive shindig there on Friday, so if you’ve yet to see why the city’s all abuzz over this venue, Red Bull Solstice is the perfect chance to find out. 

Saturday
The Westend is the hottest area in town, and part of that is thanks to the awesomeness that is the growing Junction neighbourhood. On Saturday, the Junction Solstice Summer Festival is on, featuring food from local vendors and restaurants, live entertainment, art, design, music, and much more. 

Throwback old school style at Steam on Queen, an authentic Steampunk festival going down at Campbell House Museum. Thousands are expected to show up to check out some uber-cool arts and cultural activities, and the performances are sure to knock your socks off. 

Sunday
Two big food events are on Sunday, and you won’t want to miss either. First, we’ve Eat Up TO, a coming together of food, innovation, technology and more at 99 Sudbury. Hosted by NOW Magazine, Eat Up TO sees some of the city’s top culinary talent amongst interactive elements, talks, products, and the like. 

The second, TO Food Fest, is a larger celebration of all things noshable, going down in the far east end at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto. This one’s for the hardcore foodie who likes to wait in line to discover new hidden gems and test out some interesting and intriguing tastes from local food vendors and restaurants.

Top photo courtesy Royal Ontario Museum