parties Toronto

The top 10 parties by the lake in Toronto this summer

The top parties by the lake in Toronto this summer are a clear indicator of our limited waterfront fiesta spots. But there's no need to fret, we're working well with what our mama gave us, which is a few key venues to get us dancing with stellar DJs and cultural activities.

Here are my picks for the top parties by the lake in Toronto this summer.

Promise Cherry Beach (All summer)
These guys don't post blatant information about their Cherry Beach bash's online, but follow the Promise Twitter account for event updates and get yourself down to the hidden beach oasis for what is usually an ultra pleasant afternoon of dance music, picnic, bubbles and niceties.

Ritmo Y Color (July 15-17)
Can't make it to Mexico this year? Get as close as possible to the colourful, vibrant streets of their capital city with this waterside weekend party. Food, music, art, and a special performance from LuchaT.O. are all on tap. Arrrriba!

Sunset Session with Carl Craig (July 16)
Two gorgeous courtyards fill will music starting at 4 p.m. at this lakeside oasis, headlined by Detroit electronic music legend Carl Craig. Toronto all-stars Dinamo Azari, Basic Soul Unit and Nitin and a slew of other local DJs spin all day and night. You won't dance harder this summer than at this party.

T&T Waterfront Night Market (July 22-24)
Alert, this is not a full-out, waterside dance party, this is more of a party for the mouth, nose, stomach and eyes. Sure, there are two stages of entertainment, but this is a food and culture event, so plan for stretchy waistline pants instead of dancing shoes.

DJ Tay James at Cabana Pool Bar (July 23)
Justin. Bieber's. Official. DJ. That's right. He's spinning by the pool directly next to Lake Ontario along side local fellas Jed Harper & Chris La Roque. Wear big sunglasses so the questionable crowd doesn't notice your eye-rolling, and head down to this pool bar party!

OVO Fest at Echo Beach (July 30)
OVO Fest moves right next to the water for the 2016 edition, which stars Machel Montano, Beenie Man and so many special mystery guests. This is one of my fave venues in the city not only because you catch a fresh breezE from the waterfront, but it's laid back and spread out and has a total beach vibe.

Sunset Sessions (July 31)
Check out the revamped Sunnyside Pavilion with an event featuring party masters Captive Audience, HouseAddict, Box of Kittens & Secret Society while Venezuelan duo Fur Coat headline. This is a pure beach party.

Disclosure at Echo Beach (August 2)
Ignore the mayhem from their last appearance in Toronto, there's no coat check at this concert by the beach. They recently dropped a flawless new EP, and if you've never experienced wild dancing in the sand, this concert is the one to give it all you've got.

Beats, Breaks and Culture (August 5-7)
This free music beast is geared towards those who really like to get down. Celebrating hip hop and electronic music culture, performers include the Jungle Brothers, Sinkane and 9-piece hip hop troupe Dirty B-Sides. Shows happen 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Camp Wavelength (August 19-21)
Spend the night camping on the Island before school starts up again at the second annual Camp Wavelength, which boasts an incredible lineup this year. This is one of the few chances to sleep under the stars in one of Toronto's most beautiful places.

Did I miss your favourite party by the lake this summer? Let me and the readers know in the comments section and let's get wet!

Lead photo from the Cabana Pool Bar Facebook Page.


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

A brief history of one of Toronto's pioneering industrial families

Canadians rip on the wealthy upset by the capital gains tax hike

Japanese person shares brutally honest guide to living in Canada

Most Canadian millennials think conventional approach to retirement is outdated

Here are all the Toronto parks where drinking will be permanently allowed

Alcohol in parks in Toronto is now permanent but some neighbourhoods are not happy

Video shows Ontario police throw flashbangs at suspect car in movie-level takedown

City of Toronto has been awarding multimillion-dollar contracts to single bidders