Toronto has a lot to celebrate this weekend. With the announcement that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to Toronto — and with all the 2018 FIFA World Cup action to catch across the city (see our recommendations here), it's time to get yourself in gear ...
And of course, you can't forget these suggestions for Father's Day this Sunday. (Try some of these last-minute gifts for dad that you can order online.)
While the predictable patio brunch, absently cheering on the Jays, or a brisk walk in Bellwoods are all well and good for your weekend plans, sometimes you can find yourself in a rut.
Also, be sure to watch for Toronto's road closures this weekend, so you can enjoy a fun and smooth flowing one.
Here are seven Toronto events to put some spark back into your spontaneous summer plans:
1. Corno & Warhol Art Exhibit
Where: C9 Art GalleryWhen: Saturday, June 16 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Admission: Free!
(Photo courtesy of C9 Art)
The exhibition features Corno originals and prints, as well as one of the largest in the world collection of original Andy Warhol exhibition posters from 1962 to 1987.
Highlights of the exhibition include a rare exhibition poster of Warhol’s first show of the memorable Campbell Soup series in Los Angeles, and a Corno portrait of Marilyn Monroe custom-composed using Swarovski crystals.
2. NXNE 2018 Music Festival
Where: Various venues on Yonge St. — Yonge & DundasWhen: All weekendAdmission: Ticketed and free events
NXNE is a raging annual 10-day summer festival and conference every June in Toronto.
It features music, gaming, comedy and more at this packed party. NXNE includes a major free, three-day music festival in the centre of the city at Yonge and Dundas.
3. Breakthroughs Film Festival
Where: The Royal Cinema TheatreWhen: Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 16Admission: $12 a day
(Photo courtesy of The Royal Theatre)
The only festival in Canada devoted exclusively to short films directed by emerging women directors.
The collection of films to be screened will include award-winning shorts from all over the world, ranging from Iceland to Japan.
4. Paddle The Rouge
Where: Rouge Beach ParkWhen: Sunday, June 16Admission: Free, but $55 to rent a canoe or kayak
(Photo courtesy of Paddle the Rouge)
Paddle the Rouge connects youth to nature and builds the next generation of stewards for Canada’s wilderness. There will also be free paddle lessons for kids, open paddle in the afternoon for individuals and families, face painting, and live music.
5. Yorkville Exotic Car Show
Where: 1200 Bay StreetWhen: Sunday, June 17, 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.Admission: Free!
(Photo courtesy of Yorkville Exotic Car Show)
Each Father’s Day, Bloor Street in Yorkville closes to traffic for the Yorkville Exotic Car Show.
Walking along the red carpet stretching from Bay Street to Avenue Road, you'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful cars from manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin, Acura and others.
6. Gates Open Home & Garden Tour
Where: Cornell Campbell House — 3620 Kingston RoadWhen: Saturday, June 16Admission: $30
Tour beautiful homes perched along the Scarborough Bluffs and be inspired with new and creative ideas for your own home and gardens at the annual Gates Open Home & Garden Tour.
7. Taste of Little Italy
Where: College StreetWhen: Friday, June 15 to Sunday, June 17Admission: Free!
Enjoy live music on multiple street corners and on the main stage, extended patios, multicultural vendors, amazing food, carnival rides and new this year a learn-to-skate park where children can learn how to scooter and skateboard.