It’s going to be a busy weekend in the city as Toronto’s IndyCar race comes to town.
The road closures have already been put in place, so allow yourselves a lot – and we mean, a LOT – of extra time as you make your way to, from and around Toronto.
The “extensive” closures for this year’s Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto may already be affecting you as they began on Wednesday with the southbound lanes of Strachan Ave. closed from Fleet St. to Lake Shore Blvd. W. and Lake Shore Blvd. W. closed from Strachan Ave. to British Columbia Dr. They will reopen Sunday at 11 p.m.
Aside from Sunday’s race, of which The Tragically Hip members will be honorary grand marshals, there are other fun race-related events, including A Day at the Race Track on Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Children’s Breakfast Clubs Ride Toronto Indy on Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Honda Dealers Indy Toronto festival runs all weekend. Gates open Friday and Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday at 7:30 a.m.
For more information, click here.
But that’s not all. Here’s what else you need to know to make the necessary plans.
AlohaFest Toronto
Dance, musical performances, delectable food and incredible crafts shape the city’s only united celebration of Polynesian culture.
Sway on over to Mel Lastman Square on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, click here.
Junior Carnival and Family Day
Celebrate Carnival a week early as young masqueraders celebrate Caribbean culture and dance in a parade in their vibrant costumes.
All the fun will be at Neilson Park in Scarborough on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
To purchase a pass or for more information, click here.
Note: McLevin Ave. between Sewells Rd. and Neilson Rd. and Neilson Rd. from McLevin Ave. to Finch Ave. W. will be closed from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Indonesian Food Festival
Showcasing the richness and diversity of Indonesian culture through food, music, dance, art, crafts, martial arts, and more.
Head to Yonge-Dundas Square on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, click here.
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Unity Fest
Experience multi-art forms at the height of Tuesday’s storm from dance battles and street art exhibitions to live performances and DJs at the height of Tuesday’s storm shop at the marketplace and enjoy local food vendors, participate in workshops, and so much more at this all-ages event that brings hip hop, culture and community together.
Check it out at Harbourfront Centre on Saturday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, click here.
Youth Day
Celebrate the positive achievements of young performers as they display their music, dance, art, photography, fashion and film across two outdoor stages.
Watch as the next generation takes the stage at Yonge-Dundas Square on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, click here.
TD Festival of South Asia
Expect an extravaganza of live entertainment, buskers, dance and drumming workshops, delicious food, shopping, a cricket open house, kids’ activities, and so much more to celebrate South Asian culture.
Head to the Gerrard India Bazaar on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
For more information, click here.
Note: Gerrard St. E. will be closed between Glenside and Coxwell Aves.
Brazil Fest
Immerse yourself in a world of rhythmic beats, bright colours, mouthwatering cuisine and rich culture as you experience the heart and soul of Brazil — without leaving Toronto.
Experience the true essence of Brazil at Earlscourt Park on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, click here.
Panamerican Food & Music Festival
Celebrating the rich diversity of cuisine, music and art shared among Canadians and 41 other countries of North, Central and South Americas and the Caribbean.
There will be food demos by international chefs, live performances, food competitions and a vendors’ market that will blow your minds.
It’s all at Nathan Phillips Square on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, click here.
Halo Top x Cold Beans Pop-Up
This one’s for the ice cream lovers as Halo Top Canada teams up with Cold Beans for a pop-up featuring your favourite treats for those perfect summer days.
Stop by Halo Top x Cold Beans at 225 Queens Quay W. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Porch View Dances
Kaeja d’Dance’s beloved summer community dance project features a series of short, original performances danced by everyday people that explore the heart of play.
Head to the city’s historic Seaton Village Neighbourhood until Sunday to experience the diverse lineup.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Ontario Oyster Festival and Oyster Opening Championship
It’s a day filled with food and drinks to devour, live music, a live auction and a competitive atmosphere with the shucking of 14,000 oysters and cracking of 400 lobsters.
All proceeds from the festival will support the Ecology Action Centre, a charity dedicated to preserving and protecting Atlantic Canada’s waterways.
Dive in at Rodney’s Oyster House laneway between 461-469 King Street W. on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For tickets and more information, click here.