Canada Day 2011 events in Toronto

Canada Day events in Toronto are plentiful in 2011, which should be enough to temper any jealously that those of us who are city-bound this weekend might have for the cottaging set. Along with fireworks displays, there's a variety of other outdoor friendly things to do on July 1st, which looks to be a beauty weather-wise.

TOP EVENTS

Canada Day Concert at Downsview Park
This is the big one. Headliners the Tragically Hip will be joined by Weezer, Broken Social Scene, Hey Rosetta! and Buck 65. Tickets, of course, sold out long ago, but there's still lots available on Craigslist if you're willing to pony up the cash. Downview Park, starts at 12 p.m.

Canada Day at Dream in High Park
A perfect way to get outside and to get some culture, Dream in High Park will be putting on a free performance of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale, which will be preceded by musical performances and other activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring provisions for a picnic. High Park, 4pm-10pm.

Canada Day Picnic at Sunnyside Pavilion
60 years ago, the Sunnyside Amusement Park and boardwalk was the place to be on the July 1st weekend. This year, it's the place to be if you're a house music fan. Headlined by DJ Mark Farina, who will play a three hour set featuring his various Mushroom Jazz, West Coast and Chicago house styles, it promises to be crowded and loud — but in the good way.

Canada Day at Ontario Place
Although it's likely to be packed with young families, Ontario Place doesn't have to be a kid-only zone. After a little pre-drinking, mini-golf is just about the most fun game on earth, and why not arrive early to stake out a good spot for the evening fireworks? The Park opens at 10am.

Oh Canada at 36 Chambers
Art exhibition meets barbecue...I like the idea. Featuring nationally themed work by 20 emerging artists and general party atmosphere (the event goes until 3 a.m.), this is a good way to salute the country and the fact that it's completely acceptable to hungover on Saturday — in fact, it's expected.

OTHER EVENTS

There are a number all-day events taking place at some of Toronto's larger, touristy venues:

• Canada Day at Harbourfront Centre
• Canada Day at Fort York
• Canada Day at Downsview Park
• Canada Day at Black Creek Pioneer Village
• Hip Hop Karaoke: Canada Day Edition
• Ribfest

And there are also more adult-oriented happenings:

• Self-Loathing Canada Day / Pride Party at the Bovine
• Canada Day by the Lake, feat DJ Mies
• Canada Day Jam at the Opera House
• Don Cherry is an Asshole at Parts & Labour
• Canada Day Cruise
• Mariposa Canada Day Cruises
• Danny Howells Boat Cruise

FIREWORKS

Check out this post for specific information about Canada Day Fireworks in Toronto for 2011.

Photo by Lone Primate in the blogTO Flickr pool.