Blog

Summer Newsletter 2024

POSTED ON June 28, 2024 BY Hayley James

BIA Summer Social

Thank you to all those who attended the Summer Social at Harriet’s Rooftop Bar & Restaurant. This was a great opportunity for members to network and kick off the summer season. We look forward to connecting at our next event.


Downtown Toronto’s Ultimate Summer Guide

Our 2024 Summer Guide has returned, celebrating our community as a district of experiences and highlighting over 150 businesses. Discovering an array of events and promotions, featuring the best rooftops and patios, seasonal cocktails, specialty menus, and fun summer activities.

If you are interested in promoting your business in the guide, please contact Hayley James at hjames@tdwbia.ca.


Downtown Movies in the Park

The BIA is pleased to present the return of outdoor movie nights every Wednesday evening at sunset. David Pecaut Square transforms into an outdoor cinema featuring iconic films that celebrate fierce, fabulous female characters. Here is the summer movie lineup:

  • July 3: The Devil Wears Prada
  • July 10: Clueless
  • July 17: Mean Girls
  • July 24: 9 to 5
  • July 31: Barbie
  • August 7: Wonder Woman

If you are interested in promoting your business at Downtown Movies in the Park, please contact Hayley James.


New Food Tours Coming to Downtown Toronto

The BIA has collaborated with member business, Culinary Adventure Co. and Pedal Pub, to bring two distinct food tours to the neighbourhood:

The Sunday Brunch Tour with Culinary Adventure Co.

The King West + Entertainment District Brunch Tour will launch August 4th in collaboration with Culinary Adventure Co., Toronto’s #1 food tour, and our member restaurants. This exciting initiative aims to promote our vibrant neighbourhood and encourage people to explore the district’s culinary offerings. We look forward to showcasing the unique flavours and experiences our area has to offer.

Food Tours with Pedal Pub

Additionally, we are collaborating with Pedal Pub to launch a unique biking tour which is already available for bookings, combining a fun pedalling experience with culinary delights from our member restaurants. This tour will provide an exciting way for participants to explore our neighbourhood while enjoying delicious food and beverages.

This tour not only promotes the participating businesses but also showcases the entire neighbourhood, as participants will explore the district while guides share captivating stories and highlight other local establishments.


Architectural Walking Tour

In partnership with the Toronto Society of Architects, we are excited to offer a unique historical architectural tour of the Entertainment District. This tour provides an in-depth exploration of the neighbourhood’s history and storied architecture, offering a comprehensive view of the district’s rich heritage. Participants will enjoy engaging stories and guided insights as they explore the area, highlighting not only the architectural landmarks but also promoting other local businesses, encouraging further discovery and appreciation of our vibrant community.


Pups in the Park

Date: August 24th & 25th

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: St. Andrew’s Playground Park

The BIA is hosting a dog-friendly event at St. Andrew’s Playground Park to promote our local pet services and retail businesses. We invite any interested businesses to contact us about securing a free, BIA sponsored booth. The event will take place in and around the park’s off-leash dog area and in front of the newly opened Waterworks building.

If you are interested in promoting your business at Pups in the Park, please contact Hayley James.


Wellness Together: Community Revitalization Day

Date: August 24th

Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Victoria Memorial Park

In partnership with StretchLab, the BIA is hosting an outdoor wellness event in the park, inviting local businesses such as fitness studios and holistic health providers to participate. These businesses are encouraged to offer workshops and classes that promote health and well-being, such as pilates, yoga, and massages.

If you are interested in promoting your business at Wellness Together, please contact Hayley James.


The BIA installs new Gillie & Marc sculpture

The BIA is excited to announce the installation of a new bronze sculpture by the internationally acclaimed artistic duo Gillie and Marc Schattner, known as Gillie and Marc. Titled, He Was on a Ride to a Safer Place, is an interactive and captivating piece

with the goal of delivering messages of equality, acceptance, and conservation.

The sculpture will be prominently displayed in David Pecaut Square and has garnered public engagement and media attention on Urban Toronto, Curiocity, Now Toronto, and other media outlets.

Read Press Release.


The BIA launches Table 6ix podcast

The BIA is thrilled to announce the launch of “Table 6ix“, a new podcast that celebrates the vibrant community, culture, and spirit of our district. The podcast aims to highlight the stories and perspectives of BIA business members and makes our city truly unique.

Tune in to four episodes with the following guests:

  • Episode 1: Councillor, Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik
  • Episode 2: Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO of the Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation
  • Episode 3: Margie Zeidler, 401 Richmond Founder
  • Episode 4: Ashley Bryant, Instructor and Guide at Othership.

Stay tuned on our website, YouTube, Spotify, & Apple Podcasts, for more episodes coming this season.

More Information.


Outdoor SaveStation AED Installation

The BIA proudly announces Toronto’s first outdoor SaveStation at the CN Tower. Located at the tower’s base, this lifesaving Automated External Defibrillator (AED) ensures immediate public access during emergencies.

SaveStation Video.


New to the District

Akin Collective – 579 Richmond St. W.

Bone & Biscuit– 486 Front St. W.

Bridgette Bar423 Wellington St. W.

Earls Kitchen + Bar – 601 King St. W.

Greta Bar YYZ – 590 King St. W.

La Plume – 453 Wellington St. W.

Little Paws – 410 Adelaide St. W.

Trove Wellness – 426 Adelaide St. W.

Waterworks Food Hall – 499 Richmond St. W.

Wellington Market – 486 Front St. W.


Road Closures & Event Notices

Metrolinx: York & Queen Intersection Restrictions

  • Date: July 2 – end of July
  • Location: York St. & Queen St. W.
  • Attachment: Metrolinx website.

Filming – Common Ground

Honda Indy

FanEXPO

See All Road Closures


Conferences & Conventions

Canadian Immigrant Fair

  • Date: June 27
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

The First International Post COVID Conference

  • Date: July 11 – 13
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
  • Attendance: 5,000

Import Fest 2024

  • Date: July 13
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

NABC Summer Championships

  • Date: July 18 – 28
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
  • Attendance: 7,000

Fan Expo Canada

  • Date: August 22 – 25
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
  • Attendance: 35,000+

See All Conferences & Conventions