One of Canada’s largest street festivals is almost here as Taste of the Danforth makes it return this weekend.
Slated to take place on Friday, Aug. 7; Saturday, Aug. 8; and Sunday, Aug. 9; Taste of the Danforth will feature three days of food, live entertainment and family-friendly activities to East Toronto.
The free festival is expected to bring in 1.5 million attendees over the weekend, celebrating the cuisine and culture it has to offer. Taste of the Danforth did not take place in the summers of 2024 or 2025 but is returning this year due to increased enthusiasm among organizers and stable funding announced earlier this year by the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario.
While Greek heritage is at the heart of the celebration, Taste of the Danforth reflects the diversity of Toronto and features more than 25 international cuisines alongside the Greek favourites that street festival is known for. More than 100 local restaurants and businesses will be taking part.
But the festival is about more than just the food. Those attending can enjoy a variety of performances and activities throughout the weekend, featuring four entertainment stages and six experience zones.
The festival’s signature World Stage and the RBC Showcase Stage will feature multicultural acts and performances, celebrating Toronto’s diversity, and music from around the world.
The Greek Stage embraces the festival’s Hellenic roots with traditional Greek music and dances. Visitors can also join in themselves at the OLG “Let’s Dance” Stage, where short performances will be followed by interactive dance lessons.
Families will have no shortage of entertainment to enjoy with the Kids Zone, which includes EverBlock building activities, face painting, manga style portraits with artist Martis Cores, a Robolab, and a glitter session.
The Its All Greek To Me, Plate breaking experience: OPA!, lets those attending Taste of the Danforth take part in a beloved Greek tradition safely. Although it’s been banned in Greece since 1969, Taste of the Danforth will be bringing it to the neighbourhood this weekend only.
Other zones include the amusement park zone, filled with rides and games, the Heineken Beer garden, sponsor activities, and an immersive Hollywood-themed experience promoting the upcoming film “The End of Oak Street,” where guests have the chance to win free movie passes.
Taste of the Danforth’s hours are this Friday from 6 p.m. to midnight; Saturday from noon to midnight; and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. It will be taking place along Danforth Avenue, from Broadview Avenue to Jones Avenue.
Road closures along Danforth Avenue will be in effect for the entire festival, and those attending are advised to take public transit, walk or cycle to the area.
For more information on Taste of the Danforth, please visit https://tasteofthedanforth.com/
