Welcome to “Things to do in Toronto” for Thursday, July 31, 2025! Whether you’re a long-time Torontonian or just passing through, get ready for a city buzzing with summer excitement. As of this morning, Toronto is enjoying warm, sunny weather—perfect for joining the outdoor festivities. The air quality is good and the city’s energy is building toward the Civic Holiday weekend, setting up a truly vibrant scene[1][5].
If you’re looking for standout events today, there’s something for every taste:
- **Nelly with Ja Rule, Eve & Special Guests** light up Budweiser Stage tonight for the “Where The Party At” tour—a major throwback and hip-hop celebration you can’t miss[7][10].
- Dance aficionados and music lovers should look ahead to the annual **Veld Music Festival**, kicking off tomorrow at Downsview Park and running all weekend, with artists like Alesso, Deadmau5, and Tiësto[1].
- Foodies can dive right in at the **Toronto Food Truck Festival** at Woodbine Park, already rolling out 30-50 local food trucks with every cuisine you can imagine (plus live music and eating challenges)[1].
- For a family-friendly daytime scene, the **Scarborough Ribfest** starts at 11 AM, offering smoky BBQ, midway rides, and live entertainment until Monday[1].
- Looking ahead to Saturday, the legendary **Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade** transforms the lakeshore into a colourful celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and dance. Don’t miss the masquerade bands marching along Lake Shore Boulevard[1].
In local news, Toronto is in the spotlight as the Ontario government appeals a recent court decision that ruled tearing up established bike lanes unconstitutional, citing increased risk to public safety[8]. On a lighter note, Toronto’s hospitality sector is hopping, with new restaurant openings drawing crowds to neighbourhoods like the Esplanade and the Distillery District[3][9].
Transit tip: If you’re planning to take the TTC this Sunday, be aware that Line 2 (between St. George and Chester stations) will be replaced by shuttle buses from 8 AM to 11 AM for maintenance. Plan extra time for your travels[1].
If you’re up for exploring beyond the main events:
- Snap panoramic views from the **CN Tower**, or get inspired by art and history at the **Royal Ontario Museum** (ROM) or the **Art Gallery of Ontario**. For a break from city heat, hop a ferry to Toronto Island for a relaxing lakeside walk and skyline views[3][6].
- If you want something more offbeat, take a walking food tour through Kensington Market, discovering street art, secret bites, and colourful local history[4][6].
Local tip: Head to Union Station and grab a PRESTO day pass for unlimited TTC travel. It’s the easiest way to hit multiple neighbourhoods in one go—like a local in the know.
Before we sign off, a quick teaser: this Civic Holiday weekend is massive, with the Toronto Caribbean Carnival’s Grand Parade on Saturday and the Veld Festival in full swing. Plus, stay tuned for updates on the CNE opening in mid-August—one of the city’s best-loved traditions is just around the corner[8].
Tune in tomorrow for more of the city’s best happenings, secret finds, and tips to make your Toronto summer unforgettable.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI