Special Events in Toronto

     Enjoying the status of a vibrant world-class city, Toronto has something for everyone at any time of the year. The year begins with the Toronto International Boat Show and the Metro Home Show in January, followed by the Chinese New Year celebration. Celebrate Toronto WinterCity Festival and the Canadian International Auto Show follow in February. In March are the St. Patrick's Day Parade, Canada Blooms, the Toronto Sportsmen's Show and the One of a Kind Spring Craft Show and Sale, followed by the Wine and Cheese Festival on the outskirts of the city. The National Home Show is held in April, along with the Good Food Festival, followed by the Toronto Jewish Film Festival in early May and Santé: The Bloor-Yorkville Wine Festival in mid-May. Later in the month is the Milk International Children's Festival of the Arts at Harbourfront Centre and Doors Open Toronto, where the city's historic and architecturally significant sites open their doors to visitors for free.
     Summer kicks off with the Queen's Plate, Canada's leading Thoroughbred race, and the prestigious harness race, the North America Cup, both run in June at the Woodbine Race Track. The International Dragon Boat Race Festival, held at Centre Island in late June, is considered one of the largest in the world with more than 100 races as well as a cultural festival with crafts, international cuisine and entertainment.
     Harbourfront Centre Summer Festivals begins in late June and runs through Labour Day. Films, food, dance, theater, crafts and music are featured. The 10-day Downtown Jazz Festival beginning in late June presents performances, many free, by more than 2,000 musicians, while the International CHIN Picnic offers sports, international foods, music and dance by some 2,000 performers.
     Early July offers the Fringe: Toronto's Theatre Festival, during which more than 100 national and international theater companies stage innovative productions. Celebrate Toronto Street Festival offers more than 1,200 performers and 700 attractions along Yonge Street. In mid-July top race car drivers compete in the 3-day Molson Grand Prix, while the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition presents the works of some 500 artists. The Beaches International Jazz Festival features more than 70 bands and 1,000 musicians. Late July through early August brings Caribana--Toronto International Carnival, the city's popular Caribbean festival, and the Rogers Cup women's tennis championship.
     August presents the Fringe Festival of Independent Dance Artists, featuring international artists staging works ranging from classical to very experimental, and the Festival Bana y'Africa, a celebration of African music, dance, food and culture. More than 900,000 residents and visitors alike flock to the Taste of the Danforth to celebrate Greek culture and food, while Buskerfest features the talents of street performers from around the globe. The end of summer is signaled with the Canadian National Exhibition, running from mid-August through Labour Day; one of the world's oldest and largest exhibitions, it is highlighted by displays, a horse show, live entertainment, a world-class air show and more than 500 attractions and 65 rides.
     Autumn is ushered in by September's Toronto International Film Festival, in the downtown core. The Toronto In-Water Boat Show at Ontario Place also is held in September. October begins with the Fall Home Show. The Toronto International Marathon and the Toronto Ski, Snowboard and Travel Show are held in mid-October, followed by the Creative Sewing and Needlework Festival. The International Festival of Authors at Harbourfront Centre rounds out the month.
     The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Royal Horse Show takes place in November, as does the long-running Santa Claus Parade, the Canadian Aboriginal Festival and the One of a Kind Christmas Craft Show and Sale, which runs through early December. The Cavalcade of Lights holiday celebration begins in late November and runs through New Year's Day. A Historic Toronto Christmas re-creates the days of Christmases past at the historical Colborne Lodge, Gibson House Museum, Mackenzie House and Spadina House from mid-November to early January. A New Year's Eve celebration is held at Nathan Phillips Square at City Hall.