This is the Summer we’ve all been waiting for, where we can finally make up for lost time. Make a promise to treat yourself from now until September with extra special experiences and unforgettable memories you won’t soon forget. The good news: you don’t have to go far to keep your promise, you’ll find all kinds of incredible suggestions in this blog. Consider this to be your living Guide to Summer, which will be updated regularly as new and exciting events are announced. Keep checking back, and watch our socials to rediscover the district over and over this Summer. We guarantee you’ll never be bored!
Stay in the Entertainment District
With so many incredible things to do in the Entertainment District this Summer, you’ll probably want to stay a while. Plus there is a special incentive to book a staycation: Find out how to get back up to 20% of your eligible 2022 Ontario accommodation expenses. Check out our directory for a full list of Accommodations in the district.
Festivals, Events, Concerts and More
Mirvish Productions – Coming Up at Princess of Wales Theatre & Royal Alexandra Theatre
We are so glad that the theatre has returned to the district! & JULIET is on NOW, from June 22 – August 14, 2022 at the Princess of Wales Theatre. Created by the Emmy® winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including Since U Been Gone‚ Roar, Baby One More Time, Larger Than Life‚ That’s The Way It Is, and Can’t Stop the Feeling—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more #1 hits than any other artist this century. Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way. See what else is on at Mirvish this Summer, 2 PIANOS 4 HANDS is at Royal Alexandra Theatre from June 4 – July 17, 2022. JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is also playing at Royal Alexandra Theatre, from August 10 – August 21, 2022
Roy Thomson Hall – Upcoming Events
Roy Thomson Hall is one of Canada’s premier concert halls, showcasing the world’s greatest performers in all disciplines. For the concert lover who lives for those ‘you just had to be there moments‘; if you’d appreciate advance notice for upcoming shows, chances to win great prizes and more; you may consider a Membership. Joining as member means supporting the Hall’s charitable work while enjoying perks, such as priority booking, lounge, event invitations and much more. See below for some of the incredible performances taking place this Summer at Roy Thomson Hall:
TSO – THE MUSIC OF ABBA Tuesday June 28 – Wednesday, July 29. Featuring Steven Reineke, conductor, Rajaton, vocal ensemble.
LUDOVICO EINAUDI Wednesday, July 6 – Thursday, July 7, Seven Days Walking – Seven albums released over seven months throughout 2019, variation after variation on a theme, all inspired by a winter’s walk repeated over a period of time in the Alps…
KOBIE BOYKINS Sunday 10 July – Tuesday, July 12, Winner of a NASA Exceptional Service Medal, Boykins will share his boundless enthusiasm for unraveling the mysteries of outer space, along with news of the latest chapter of Mars exploration.
IJAAZET BY GULZAR SIR Friday, July 15, Gulzar Sir is performing for the first time ever in Toronto! Enjoy an evening of Poetry, Ghazal and songs written by Gulzar and Bollywood singers and orchestra.
ZOLTAN TAKACS Sunday 24 July – Tuesday, July 26, A Part of National Geographic Live, Biomedical scientist Zoltan Takacs collects and researches the deadliest snake, scorpion, and jellyfish venoms for medical innovation.
SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX Tuesday, August 2, The pop-jazz phenomenon, Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, returns to Roy Thomson Hall for The Grand Reopening Tour.
FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ – Ripley’s Aquarium
Explore the waters of the world on the second Friday of every month with Friday Night Jazz at the Aquarium! With a live jazz band playing all the classics as you sip your drink of choice under the sea, a night of musical adventure awaits!
Upcoming Events – Scotiabank Arena
Scotiabank Arena is Canada’s premier sports and entertainment venue, this Summer is jam packed with incredibly exhilarating events. Check out their site to see full listings, below are a few highlights we’re really excited about!
Post Malone – Twelve Carat Tour September 20 – 21, 2022
Shawn Mendes – Wonder: The World Tour July 31 – August 2, 2022
Kendrick Lamar – The Big Steppers Tour August 12 – 13, 2022
Harry Styles – Love on Tour August 15 – 16, 2022
Live at Rogers Centre
Some big names are coming to Toronto this Summer, including the legendary Elton John, and Lady Gaga! Rogers Centre hosts some of the biggest concerts every year, check out who’s coming to town:
The Weeknd – After Hours Til Dawn Tour July 8, 2022
Lady Gaga The Chromatica Ball August 6, 2022
Mötley Crüe/Def Leppard/Poison/Joan Jett and the Blackhearts August 8, 2022
Red Hot Chili Peppers 2022 World Tour August 21, 2022
Imagine Dragons: Mercury World Tour August 22, 2022
Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road The Final Tour September 7 & 8, 2022
Of course, it goes without saying, Summer is the perfect time to catch a ball game at the Rogers Centre! The Toronto Blue Jays 2022 Promotions & Events Schedule, features new and fan-favourite giveaways and theme days at many of our home games this season!
ROUNDHOUSE CRAFT BEER FEST
August 13, 2022 at Roundhouse Park
Steam Whistle Brewing, in association with the Toronto Railway Museum, invites you to join for a celebration of all things craft beer at the Roundhouse Summer Craft Beer Festival. You can expect over 40 makers of craft beer, cider, hard seltzers, local food vendors, outdoor dance party with DJ Matt Weed, and live entertainment! Get your tickets today.
FAN EXPO Canada 2022
August 25 – 28, 2022 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
FAN EXPO Canada is the largest comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming event in Canada that attracts hundreds of thousands of people from around the world. Every year, FAN EXPO Canada offers exciting family-friendly attractions, events, and world-renowned Celebrities!
Everyone is a fan of something, and FAN EXPO is a place to celebrate all things pop culture. Get an autograph or a photo with your favourite guest then get the inside scoop about your favourite movies and TV shows at our celebrity panels! Watch professional comic artists battle it out in our popular Sketch Duels, learn from our “How To” workshops, and take photos with your favourite costumed characters! It’s also a great place to buy a unique gift (or treat yourself!) with a huge show floor for the ultimate shopping experience.
TIFF 2022
September 8 – September 18, 2022, various locations
Summer’s grand finale, The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) returns this September for its 47th edition. 11 days of international and Canadian cinema, special events featuring some of the biggest names in film, and TIFF’s Industry Conference, offering diverse and innovative perspectives on the art and business of film. Don’t forget: Members get first access to tickets. Join or renew today! For fans who love to star gaze, Festival Street returns this year, and will be lined with activations, performances and best of all, celebrities! Movie fans, don’t miss the opportunity to witness epic red carpet moments.
More to Explore
Activities and Attractions
Plan a fun Summer adventure with Family and Friends in the District! Feel the thrill of EdgeWalk, perfect your swing at Par-tee Put, or find your way out of the escape rooms at Toronto’s Escape Manor! There’s so much to do and experience, see how many you can cross off the list!
Spend a Day Exploring the Arts and Culture Scene Inside 401 Richmond
Explore shops, galleries, cafes & exhibition spaces. Grab a coffee and a snack at one of two cafes, browse unique shops and gallery spaces, and explore the many public areas of this beautifully restored heritage building. There’s nothing quite like a visit to 401 Richmond and visitors are welcome during public hours.
Pedal Pub Toronto
Pedal Pub tours offer a fun, out-of-the-box way to party, perfect for bachelor & bachelorette parties, birthday parties, company outings, date nights, and more! These unique pub crawls are piloted by energetic and reliable Beerless Leaders at the wheel, so you can experience the city’s booming bar scene without having to worry about a designated driver to get you and your companions around safely! Once booked, your only job is to have fun, take plenty of selfies, and enjoy Toronto’s vibrant Entertainment District with your group! Reserve individual seats or a custom tour or private tour today. Or, Book two seats on Pedal Pub Toronto when you’re ready to put the most epic date night idea ever in your calendar! See below for stops in our district:
Drink & Dine in the District
There is absolutely no shortage of incredible dining experiences to choose from in the neighbourhood. If you’re looking to soak up the sun while enjoying great food, drinks and atmosphere, check out our Patio Feature, or if you love the vibe of action-packed sports bars you’ll find more great suggestions in our recent blogs. A comprehensive list of dining and nightlife can be found in our directory.
Party
They don’t call this neighbourhood the Entertainment District for nothing! It’s home to some of the best nightlife and clubs in the city. You and your friends can catch good vibes on hot summer nights after the sun sets!
