Your Ultimate Guide to Toronto’s Beaches Jazz Festival
Toronto’s summer comes alive with the soulful melodies and infectious rhythms of the Beaches Jazz Festival, one of the city’s most iconic and anticipated summer events.
From captivating performances to delicious food and lively street parties, this free festival runs through the month of July and culminates in the popular StreetFest.
For those looking for a fun summer event, this guide will help you plan your visit with must-know details about the festival.
Keep reading to discover insider tips to ensure your visit is as unforgettable as the music itself.
What is the Beaches Jazz Festival?
The Beaches Jazz Festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of music, culture, and community that has become a cornerstone of Toronto’s vibrant summer scene.
Since its inception in 1989, the festival has grown from a modest gathering of jazz enthusiasts into a world-renowned music event that draws hundreds of thousands of attendees annually.
The Beaches Jazz Festival has expanded into a month long musical event, culminating with the popular three-day StreetFest in the Beaches neighbourhood.
The festival showcases an eclectic mix of musical styles, from soulful classics to Celtic favourites and contemporary sounds.
❋ Beaches International Jazz Festival
July 4 – 27, 2025
What is the Beaches Jazz Festival?
The Beaches Jazz Festival is an annual month-long music festival that runs on weekends in July in the east end of Toronto. It is one of Canada’s largest free jazz festivals, showcasing professional musicians in a number of venues in the city.
There are several festival events held throughout the month of July. The most popular event and a true summer highlight is the StreetFest held in the Beaches neighbourhood. StreetFest is held every year on the last weekend of July along Queen Street East.
Why You’ll Love the Beaches Jazz Festival
Here’s what makes the Beaches Jazz Festival a can’t-miss summer event:
It’s Free and Family-Friendly
One of the festival’s greatest draws? It’s completely free!
Bring your family, friends, or even your furry companion to soak up the sounds without worrying about admission fees. Kids are welcome and there’s something for everyone, no matter their age.
An Immersive Musical Experience
The festival transforms the streets into an outdoor summer concert. The streets are closed to traffic and you can wander from performer to performer enjoying the huge variety of musical performances.
The Iconic StreetFest
The heart of the Beaches Jazz Festival lies in its StreetFest, where Queen Street East comes alive with outdoor performances, food vendors, and the buzz of excitement.
Toronto’s Summer at Its Best
The Jazz Fest is one my favourite things to do in Toronto each summer. Every year we take in the musical performances, enjoy some drinks on one of the many patios, and meet up with friends and family. It’s the perfect summer celebration.
Can’t-Miss Highlights of the Beaches Jazz Festival
From lively performances to delicious eats, the Beaches Jazz Festival is brimming with unforgettable moments.
Here are the top highlights you won’t want to miss:
1. The Iconic StreetFest on Queen Street East
For three consecutive evenings Queen Street in the Beaches neighbourhood is closed to traffic for StreetFest. ith over 50 bands performing each night, StreetFest is the most popular festival event.
Walk over 2 kilometers while enoying diverse genres of music, new and upcoming artists, and the fantastic street party vibe.
2. Main Stage Performances in Leslieville
For those seeking a more relaxed setting, the mainstage at Jimmie Simpson Park offers an incredible lineup of headline acts.
Grab a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for an evening of music in the park. A beer garden, food trucks, and local vendors are also open in the park.
3. Woodbine Park Concert Series
Woodbine Park provides a picturesque setting for open-air concerts. With large stage, beer gardens, food trucks, and local vendors, it’s an ideal spot for families or anyone looking to sit and enjoy the musicians on stage.
This venue often features diverse acts, so you’re guaranteed a varied musical journey.
4. Local Restaurants
Jazz isn’t the only thing to savour at the festival! There are food vendors and lots of awesome local restaurants and outdoor patios open during the event.
Check out local favourites like Limon, The Stone Lion, and the Wolf Tone Irish pub.
5. Dancing in the Streets
The festival’s energy inspires impromptu dancing. Whether it’s a lively swing or a simple sway, the joyful atmosphere will keep you moving
Fun Fact: Many performers encourage audience interaction, so don’t be shy to join in on the fun!
Must-Know Jazz Festival Details
Planning your visit to the Beaches Jazz Festival? Here’s everything you need to make the most of your experience.
When and Where
The Beaches Jazz Festival happens every summer in late July, offering performances across multiple venues in Toronto’s east end, including:
- Jimmie Simpson Park: Leslieville’s Main Stage venue for exciting performances.
- Queen Street East: The bustling location of StreetFest featuring live music on every corner.
- Woodbine Park: Large outdoor venue with many different performances over several dates.
Check the official schedule for performance times and specific event locations.
Getting to the Jazz Festival
Toronto’s east end is easily accessible in a variety of ways:
- Public Transit: There are several bus options as well as the 501 streetcar that will take you to the main Jazz Festival venues.
- Driving: Limited parking is available, so aim to arrive early. Consider parking slightly further away and walking in to avoid congestion.
- Cycling: Family-friendly trails like the Martin Goodman Trail lead right to the Beaches, making cycling a good option.
Admission to the Beaches Jazz Festival
The festival is completely free, so you won’t need tickets! Vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs may charge, so bring cash or a card.
What to Bring
To make the most of your festival experience, pack these essentials:
- A blanket or foldable chair as there can be limited seating in Jimmie Simpson Park and Woodbine Park.
- A stroller or wagon for younger kids, especially if you’re planning to explore StreetFest.
- Noise-canceling headphones for infants or toddlers who might find the music too loud.
- Sunscreen, hats, and light layers to prepare for sunny afternoons and cooler evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring StreetFest.
Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
Make the most of your time at the Beaches Jazz Festival with these insider tips that will help you navigate the festival like a pro and create lasting memories.
Arrive Early to Avoid the Crowds
Secure the best spots at Woodbine Park or along Queen Street East by arriving early. Crowds grow quickly, especially during StreetFest.
If you want to avoid crowds, go to Jazz Fest on the Thursday evening. Friday and Saturday are the busiest with the largest crowds.
Plan Your Transportation Wisely
Parking can be very tricky during the festival, so consider taking public transit. There are several bus routes that will take you close to the festival.
With the street closures, parking is next to impossible. If you must drive, be prepared to park outside of the neighbourhood and walk into the festival.
Book Nearby Accommodations
There are no hotels directly in the Beaches, but there are several options are close by. Check out my guide to the best hotels near the Beaches neighbourhood for recommendations.
Beyond the Music: Exploring the Beaches Neighbourhood
While the Beaches Jazz Festival is the star attraction, the surrounding neighbourhood offers plenty of reasons to visit and stay longer.
From its scenic boardwalk to its charming local spots, the Beaches neighbourhood is a perfect complement to the festival’s vibrant energy.
Stroll Along the Boardwalk
Take a break from the music and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Beaches’ iconic boardwalk. Stretching over 3 kilometres along the Lake Ontario shoreline, the boardwalk provides stunning views, fresh lake breezes, and a way to escape the crowds.
Relax by the Water: Stop at one of the many benches along the boardwalk to take in the scenery, watch the sunset, or enjoy an ice cream with a view!
Visit Woodbine Beach: This sandy beach is perfect for dipping your toes in the water or simply enjoying the sun.
Relax in Kew Gardens: Located in the heart of the beach, Kew Gardens has a large playground and wading pool that the kids will love!
Visit Local Restaurants and Bars
The Beaches neighbourhood is brimming with cozy cafes, vibrant bars, and unique shops that add to its charm. Here are a few recommendations to enhance your festival outing:
✓ The Stone Lion: A relaxed pub with a great selection of beers and a huge outdoor patio.
✓ Wolfe Tone Pub: An Irish pub with great food and of course, a great pint of Guinness! Enjoy your drinks on the patio
✓ Limon: Excellent food with huge portions – my favourite restaurant in the Beach!
✓ Craig’s Cookies: In the Leslieville neighbourhood, stop by Craig’s Cookies for some of the most delicious cookies you’ll every have.
✓ Ed’s Ice Cream: Best ice cream in Toronto! There are two locations, one in the Beaches and one in Leslieville.
Make the Most of Your Summer in Toronto
The Beaches Jazz Festival is just the beginning of an unforgettable summer in Toronto. The city is alive with events, activities, and attractions that pair perfectly with your festival experience.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are a few ideas to round out your summer adventure:
- Discover Toronto Island: Hop on a ferry and enjoy a day of cycling, picnicking, or lounging on the sandy shores of Centre Island. It’s a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
- Snap a selfie at the CN Tower, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
- Stroll through the Distillery District, with its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and chic cafes.
- Explore Graffiti Alley, a dynamic showcase of Toronto’s vibrant street art scene.
Whether it’s your first festival or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover in Toronto. Let’s make this summer unforgettable together!
Final Thoughts from a Local about the Beaches Jazz Festival
Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a fun summer event, Toronto’s favourite free music festival is sure to exceed expectations.
This month-long event, culminating with StreetFest, is a great way to enjoy music from different cultures, while also having fun with friends or family.
So, if you’re looking for something exciting to do in Toronto in the summer, make sure to attend the Beaches Jazz Festival and experience the magic firsthand. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable live music event. See you in July!
