Toronto Grand Prix Tourist - A Toronto Blog

Snowbirds fly into the Canadian Warplane Museum

2026-06-18T15:58:17.895-04:00

It was a special day in Hamilton as the Canadian military acrobatic jet team met up with a B-25 Mitchell Bomber and did a number of flyovers before landing at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum for a meet and greet. The weather on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 was a little suspect but it remained clear enough for the B-25 to take off and meet the jet team after their recent appearance at the Barrie Air Show. The heritage flight did a pass over the museum before heading to Niagara Falls and later over Toronto for the flyovers, returning to land at the airport.

The clouds were angry around the museum

The grounded Lancaster

The Snowbird's old CT-114 Tutor aircraft are being retired from the team in 2026. The last scheduled performances will be in October will be in the States, otherwise there are a number of events in September - including over Toronto during the Canadian International Air Show. It is anticipated that the new planes will be propeller driven, Swiss-made CT-157 Sisken II aircraft which may take until the 2030's to be used by the team. These aircraft are also to be used for early pilot training in the Canadian military. This is season 55 for Canada's jet team.

Snowbirds rolling in towards the museum

The B-25 and Snowbird heritage flight

B-25 bomber heading taxiing out to meet the Snowbirds

Firing up the twin-engine bomber

Lancaster out with the Snowbird jets during a pilot meeting

Snowbird team meeting around one of the jets wing

During initial planning the Avro Lancaster was proposed for the heritage flight, however a brake problem grounded the historic bomber and a B-25 Mitchell bomber was fired up as the Lancaster's replacement. The Snowbird team was anticipated in Hamilton around 2:30pm but first a single Snowbird did some maneuvers over the airport before landing to setup the landing area. As the balance of the Snowbirds flew south, the B-25 took off to meet up with the other eight jets to begin the heritage flyovers.

See more photos from the museum after the jump.

The AVRO Lancaster and Consolidated Canso

Grumman Avenger a folding wing, carrier aircraft

Douglas DC-3 Dakota and the B-25

Snowbirds

The B-25 Bomber returning to the museum

Snowbird team meetings

@jmhcet Canadian #snowbirds acrobatic airforce jets joined by B-25 bomber at #canadianwarplanemuseum ♬ Learn to Fly - Foo Fighters

World Naked Bike Ride Toronto 2026

2026-06-13T10:20:44.807-04:00

Time for the annual protest ride through the streets of downtown Toronto. The event is free to attend and actually saves you money because you don't need clothes to participate! As usual the World Naked Bike Ride Toronto takes place on the second Saturday of June - this year on June 13, 2026 and is a rain or shine event. Superman and Superwoman put on their costume for the ride in the photo at top.

At the Victory Memorial in Coronation Park

Organizer Gene Dare will be in Coronation Park early, probably around 9 or 10am (he was here at 8:15am), waiting to greet the people who show up for the ride. Gene is in the photo at above, right side along with Madison Charlton and their dog Quentin.

Biking on the city streets

Taking a break at Queens Park

Riders will gather, socialize and some will apply bodypaint (bring your own paint) and sunscreen. The meeting point is the Victory Memorial near the giant Canadian Flag in the park just across Lake Shore Blvd and Exhibition Place. The ride will start rolling around 1pm, doing a large clockwise loop around the city core, passing by and stopping at a few of the major city icons before heading back to Coronation Park at the end of the event. You can join or drop out any time you want as well as riding as bare as you dare!

One of the most anticipated stops is the pond at Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall. People splash in the water and play in the fountains, however the pond has been drained and covered with fake grass to create soccer fields in honour of FIFA. If they bring soccer balls maybe they will have a quick game on the pitch.

From the Toronto WNBR website, "JUST SHOW UP AND RIDE The World Naked Bike Ride is global protest against the over usage of oil and urban pollution, promoting greater cycling safety on our roads, and encouraging body freedom for everyone. This site visually describes the naked protest and environmental awareness event. You are encouraged to join this legal ride. There is no cost, no registration, no cost to the taxpayer, no corporate sponsors and best of all it originated in Vancouver, Canada, and now occurs in over 80 cities worldwide. Renting a bike? Cover the seat."

You can find some info about the ride on my previous post here.

See some previous ride links and more 2026 photos after the jump.

FIFA World Cup 2026 starts today in Toronto

2026-06-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

I think this event will result in the biggest hiring of security guards in the history of Toronto as World Cup soccer, or possibly football plays six games in the City beginning June 12, 2026 and ending July 2. In addition to the games there is a FIFA Fan Fest taking place in Fort York and Bentway Park during the sporting event. This year's tournament is taking place in three countries; Canada, Mexico and the United States with sixteen host cities and 48 teams involved. Canadian cities are Vancouver and Toronto and overall the World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19.

Toronto's six games will happen at BMO Field in Exhibition Place on the following dates.

Friday, June 12, 2026 (3:00 p.m. ET) – Canada v. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Group B
Wednesday, June 17, 2006 (7:00 p.m. ET) – Ghana v. Panama
Saturday, June 20, 2026 (4 :00 p.m. ET) – Germany v. Côte d'Ivoire
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 (7:00 p.m. ET) – Panama v. Croatia
Friday, June 26, 2026 (3:00 p.m. ET) – Senegal v. Iraq
Thursday, July 2, 2026 (7:00 p.m. ET) – Winner of Group K v. Winner of Group L

Under the Bentway

Keep in mind that during match games some of the streets of Toronto will be closed so it will be difficult to get around. They suggest public transit, walking or riding a bike, which is always preferred in this city.

Game Day Road Closure Schedule *All times are approximate and subject to change.

Friday, June 12 – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, June 17 – 2 p.m. to midnight
Saturday, June 20 – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Tuesday, June 23 – 2 p.m. to midnight
Friday June 26 – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Thursday July 2 – 2 p.m. to midnight

Road Restrictions:

Local access only for Fort York neighbourhood June 11 - 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Local access for residents and businesses in the Fort York neighbourhood (Bathurst St to Strachan Ave, Fleet St to Fort York Blvd)

Road Closures: Lake Shore Boulevard West, Strachan Avenue and Exhibition Grounds June 12 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lake Shore Blvd W from Bathurst St to British Columbia Rd and Strachan Ave from East Liberty St to Lake Shore Blvd W is is fully closed in both directions as well as all roads inside Exhibition Place.

Road Restrictions: Local access only for Liberty Village neighbourhood
June 12 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Local access only for Liberty Village residents and businesses, below King St from Dufferin St to Strachan Ave.

Road Closure: Bremner Boulevard (around Rogers Centre)
June 12 - noon to 11:30 p.m.
Bremner Boulevard will be closed between Lower Simcoe Street and Navy Wharf Crescent.

Road Closure: Fleet Street
May 18 to July 31
Fully closed between Fort York Boulevard and Strachan Avenue until July 31.

At HTO Beach looking toward the CN Tower #WeAreToronto

A floating soccer field is outside of Queens Quay Terminal

You can walk across this pedestrian bridge over Lake Ontario once again

2026-06-11T17:02:57.059-04:00

I dislike these type of headlines, but sometimes you just have to have fun! I have walked over this bridge many times in the past as it crosses over a marina in Toronto and lands by Harbourfront Centre. Then five years ago it closed, or really the lifting part of the bridge was removed and it was blocked to keep people from falling in the water. The lift bridge was necessary to allow the boats to get in and out of Marina Four, part of Harbourfront Centre Marine.

This bridge was originally named the Spadina Wavedeck pedestrian bridge and with the repair and reopening of the bridge you too can save valuable minutes on your journey. It was renamed the Amsterdam Bridge because it was originally gifted to the city by the Mayor of Amsterdam in 1974, not because it is by the adjacent Amsterdam Brewhouse. On Sunday, May 31, 2026 it opened once again with the help of the Deputy Mayor, a representative of Harbourfront Centre and CreateTO along with the Dutch Consul General.

You can see the Amsterdam Bridge missing the lift bridge portion in the above photo from early May 2026.

Maple Keys carpet in Sherbourne Common

2026-06-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

The urban park along lower, Lower Sherbourne has two sections; one north and one south of Queens Quay East. This is a great park that runs right up to the edge of the inner harbour and includes cool features such as a winding, concrete channel and some art installations that provide water cascading down to the channel, a washroom facility, a skating rink/splash pad, plenty of open space and some Maple trees that are shedding their seeds onto the concrete surface.

The seeds are maple keys that act light little helicopters, dropping from the tree and hoping to hit a nice, welcoming patch of soil that will allow a new crop of Maple trees. Sadly in this case they also need to wait for a nice wind to get them out of that urban hard spot. So many have dropped that it is hard to see the grey concrete through the seeds.

Monument to the War of 1812

2026-06-08T22:21:18.225-04:00

Just checking in on Douglas Coupland's sculpture made of good old resin and steel and titled Monument to the War of 1812. It's still there at 600 Fleet Street in Toronto, a nod to the war that ended in a stalemate in a time long since passed.

The work of art installed in January of 2008 features two War of 1812 soldiers, one in gold standing over the other silver soldier lying at his feet. It is not real violence depicted as they appear to be toy soldiers.

@jmhcet Monument to the War of 1812 #Toronto, Canada. #sculpture #toysoldiers #douglascoupland ♬ sonido original - David

Do West Fest Toronto 2026

2026-06-06T22:58:42.437-04:00

Dundas West from Ossington to Lansdowne is only 1.5km and on a map it doesn't look too big, but add an incredibly large street festival and thousands of people and it seems to take forever to go from one end to the other.

Someone carries a sign saying "Beware Pickpockets"

This is one of the first festivals in Toronto and I think the people all across the city said why not and headed to Do West Fest. It is on from Friday, June 5 to Sunday, June 7 and includes three stages, a kids zone, plenty of vendors and a dunk tank.

DJ Reflection

The Dunk Tank. She is sad because she has been splashed quite a few times

Taking place in the heart of Little Portugal, just as Dundas deflects North West at Ossington Avenue, the street party is a good place to grab some chow, drinks and take in the entertainment.

Dundas St W between Ossington Ave and Lansdowne Ave.
Friday, June 5 | 6PM-11PM
Saturday, June 6 | 11AM-11PM
Sunday, June 7 | 11AM-6PM

See more of the festival after the jump.

@jmhcet #dunktank at #dowestfest 2026. dundas street west #Toronto ♬ Don't Bring Me Down - Electric Light Orchestra

Toronto Pillow Fight 2026

2026-06-06T22:09:10.831-04:00

Urban Playground Toronto organized the latest edition of the Toronto Pillow Fight which was held in Berczy Park on Saturday, June 6, 2026. It was deferred due to inclement weather on its original scheduled date of May 23, and then it was almost canceled on June 6 as more rain was scheduled in the afternoon, however they waited until around 10am to say the fight was still on and as a bonus the weather ended up being perfect.

There was about 50 to 75 people participating in the pillow bashing, first they filled out a consent form, posed for a group photo, listened to instructions and wham, the fighting began at around 1:45pm. It was good natured and a lot of fun for everyone.

Berczy Park Dog Fountain. Calm before the war

Instructions for the group

See more photos of the pillow fight after the jump.

@jmhcet
♬ How Bizarre - OMC

RedBall down at Harbourfront

2026-06-06T21:15:13.785-04:00

That RedBall is having a great time exploring Toronto, he squeezed into a tight space, like always, in Harbour Square Park West and is enjoying the sun and taking a break to just hang. The ball started its Toronto run on June 3rd at the entrance to Old City Hall and will finish on June 7, 2026 in Regent Park. If he had found his way down to Sugar Beach he might have been reborn as a giant beach ball.

The round, red art installation travels the world and is in our fair city as part of Luminato Festival.

From the Festival's website, "This is RedBall Toronto by artist Kurt Perschke. Having travelled to more than 40 cities across six continents, RedBall Project has yet to roam the same streets twice. Until now. As we celebrate Luminato’s 20th anniversary and RedBall Project’s 25th anniversary, we welcome the project back to transform the streets and public spaces of Toronto, turning everyday experiences into moments of surprise and playfulness."

June 3 - Old City Hall 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
June 4 - TMU Student Learning Centre 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
June 5 - St. Lawrence Market North 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
June 5 - Meridian Hall 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
June 6 - Harbour Square Park West 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
June 7 - Regent Park Aquatic Centre 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

RedBall Toronto and Luminato Festival 2026

2026-06-03T09:55:58.824-04:00

June in Toronto is full of art, beauty and PRIDE. Luminato Festival brings art to buildings and streets with a number of installations, film, dance, music and much, much more on their 20th anniversary.

From their website, "Luminato Festival transforms the people, places, and possibilities of Toronto with extraordinary art experiences. Every June we present bold, playful, and of the moment art for all to enjoy. Distinctly Toronto, proudly Canadian and totally Global, we welcome the world to explore our streets, stages and stories. Encounter our city like never before."

I personally love free art and events so I am looking forward to three installations and a Circus! The big, red ball - for some reason known as RedBall, Anthems of Colour, Pyramid Fields and the circus - Camion d’Intervention Artistique - CIART. In addition to this small sample the festival calendar is full of events and attractions, so go crazy and find your favourites.

RedBall was last in Toronto in 2009 (see one of my posts here) and is returning for five days from June 3 to June 7. I love RedBall, much like I like the giant rubber ducky from the Waterfront Festival, and I am glad that RedBall by Kurt Perschke is back for Luminato 2026. "The iconic RedBall appears somewhere in the city. Each day it appears in a new location—wedged between buildings, perched on staircases, or tucked into alleyways. Whether people follow the ball’s journey or encounter it by chance, each interaction is unique and special."

RedBall Toronto 2026 Schedule
Wednesday, June 3 – Sunday, June 7, 2026

June 3 - Old City Hall 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
June 4 - TMU Student Learning Centre 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
June 5 - St. Lawrence Market North 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
June 5 - Meridian Hall 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
June 6 - Harbour Square Park West 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
June 7 - Regent Park Aquatic Centre 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Pyramid Fields by Cyril Lancelin is another installation using "surreal scultpures" that glow at night. "Drawing on the pyramid’s long-standing symbolism of stability and balance, the work reimagines the form as soft, temporary, and immersive—inviting audiences to step inside these storey-high grid inspired structures. The installations are positioned next to the modernist lines of the TD Centre, designed by Mies van der Rohe, and Eberhardt Zeidler's CF Toronto Eaton Centre, creating a striking contrast between the brilliantly coloured pyramids and the surrounding dark steel-and-glass architecture."

Anthems to Colour by artist Liz West will appear in three buildings in the downtown core. The sculptures are colourful surfaces that work with light, changing with the location of the sun. "Across three Brookfield Properties locations in downtown Toronto, British artist Liz West creates sculptural works using coloured acrylic, mirrored surfaces, and refracted light. Designed to respond to the movement of the sun, the installations shift throughout the day: grids of coloured panels glow against glass facades, mirrored elements reflect and multiply surrounding architecture, and translucent walls scatter prismatic colour into the space around them."

Brookfield Place

Bay Adelaide Centre courtyard

The free circus comes to town and will appear in Sankofa Square on Friday, June 12 followed by a move to Harbourfront Centre from Saturday, June 13 to Sunday, June 14. "Camion d’Intervention Artistique - CIART is a unique immersive show presented on a real fire truck converted into a vertical stage. Led by colourful characters, the project combines aerial acrobatics, physical theatre, music, and monumental scenography. Created with collaborators from Cirque du Soleil, CIART offers powerful and accessible dramaturgy designed to bring all audiences together. Each performance transforms public spaces into spectacular worlds where imagination reigns supreme."

@jmhcet #redball is back in #Toronto for #luminato2026. #redballtoronto ♬ Let Me Entertain You - Robbie Williams

@jmhcet #pyramidfields #artinstallation for #luminato 2026. #Toronto ♬ Crumblin' Down - John Mellencamp

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham 2026 tickets now on sale

2026-05-27T00:36:55.977-04:00

When one track closes, another opens. Ticket sales have started for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham race, coming soon to a town near you, especially if you live in the GTA. You can now buy 2-Day Reserved Grandstand or General Admission along with pit and paddock access tickets for the August 14-16 racing event. Free Fan Friday returns for the Markham race with entrance courtesy of a voluntary donation to Make-A-Wish Canada and sponsored by the Ontario Honda Dealers Association.

“It’s an exciting day to be opening up public ticket sales for the inaugural Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham," said Jeff Atkinson, president of the event. “This new venue in Downtown Markham will offer expanded sightlines across multiple grandstand locations around the 12-turn track. Some great general admission vantage points are also in store for fans. We cannot wait to welcome everyone to this new festival site on August 14th!”

The temporary street course is a 12-turn, 3.52km winding through the downtown streets of Markham. The race festival also comes with food trucks, displays, activities and other attractions. Eight races will take place during Race weekend from a number of race series, including NASCAR Canada Series, USF Pro 2000 Presented by Continental Tire, the USF2000 Championship Presented by Continental Tire, and the Emzone Radical Cup Canada presented by Michelin.

There are four grandstand locations along with a number of general admission areas, perfect for viewing the new home for the only Canadian race "for the world’s fastest race car drivers from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES".

Toronto Waterfront Festival taking a break for 2026

2026-05-26T23:46:52.866-04:00

Sadly FIFA seems to be hogging the sponsorship money and so the annual Toronto Waterfront Festival has been deferred for 2026 and will return in 2027 - with the giant rubber ducky! The inflatable bathtub toy is 6 stories tall and weighs over 16,000 pounds. I don't know if ICE being in town for FIFA led to the duck thinking it might be apprehended and deported so it decided to skip this year's event. These type of ducks obviously migrate across borders, without papers, which is something that infuriates a certain someone.

“The Toronto Waterfront Festival has been an award-winning event for 16 years. We have welcomed millions of visitors, driven tens of millions of dollars in economic impact, and consistently delivered world-class programming that put Toronto’s waterfront on an international scale. Taking a year off is not a decision we made lightly. As a free, not-for-profit festival, without any government grant support and a decrease in corporate sponsorship, we are not in a financial position to put on a successful event for 2026. We are committed to doing this right, and we will be back,” said Mike Riehl, Chair, Water’s Edge Festivals & Events Board of Directors.

"The festival team is using the 2026 pause to plan a GIANT return. To give Torontonians something to look forward to, Water’s Edge Festivals & Events is thrilled to announce that the World’s Largest Rubber Duck will be returning to Toronto’s waterfront in 2027. “Mama Duck floated into Toronto in 2017 to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary. A decade later, we felt it was only fitting for her to waddle back for Canada’s 160th in 2027,” states Victoria Mahoney, Co-Producer of the festival."

Doors Open Toronto 2026 #DOT26

2026-05-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

There are a lot of buildings to explore as Toronto embraces Doors Open for another year. Over 160 locations are taking part in the annual Doors Open Toronto on Saturday to Sunday, May 23-24, 2026. Buildings are open from 10am to 5pm (unless otherwise posted) and are free to visit (note there could be fees, like parking at some sites). The theme is “The World in a City” so check out some interesting places which usually cost to visit, or are rarely open to the public.

From the City "As Toronto prepares to welcome fans from around the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Doors Open 2026 shines a spotlight on the city’s diversity as a defining strength. From globally-inspired architecture and cultural landmarks to spaces shaped by newcomer communities, the event highlights how Toronto’s many cultures and traditions come together – and how shared experiences can connect people.

While Doors Open will highlight spaces and communities central to Toronto’s early beginnings, new additions also showcase the city’s evolution. Newly featured sites include 25 Ookwemin St., Old Fire Hall 30 at Biidaasige Park, Netflix Canada, the Corleck, Toronto Star, TVO Studios, Anishnawbe Health Toronto, HOK Toronto Design Studio, Humber Valley Church and the University of Toronto Bookstore.

Additional highlights include cultural institutions and spaces for community connection, working spaces not open to the public, historic and heritage buildings and popular attractions such as the Aga Khan Museum.

City Hall Hub

Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square return as the hub for Doors Open Toronto 2026, featuring family-friendly programming. Visitors can explore the Council Chamber, Mayor’s Office, 27th Floor Observation Deck and enjoy an eclectic mix of music performances on the Nathan Phillips Square stage.

Guided Neighbourhood Tours

Fourteen guided tours explore Toronto’s vibrant neighbourhoods, public spaces and landmarks with the help of a local guide. Ten of the tours are new for 2026, including an exclusive opportunity at the CN Tower marking its 50th anniversary.

New tours for 2026 include:Inside the CN Tower: Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Building Identity: Toronto’s Story in Four Spaces
From the Ward to Kensington Market

Registration in advance is required.

Doors Open Talks

The Doors Open Talks Series returns with a lineup of panel discussions and lectures that explore how Toronto’s landmarks, public spaces, art and architecture shape its identity and build a vibrant world.

All talks are free but require advance registration.

Plan ahead

For the best experience, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead using the interactive map and site listings available on the Doors Open Toronto website. Check site-specific hours and dates and consider visiting early in the day to avoid long lines. Popular locations like Osgoode Hall, the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant and the Don Jail tend to draw large crowds and may have long wait times.

For information regarding all participating sites, talks, neighbourhood tours, programming at the City Hall hub, and accessibility, please visit the City’s Doors Open event microsite."

Toronto World Naked Bike Ride 2026 coming June 13

2026-05-18T00:37:57.420-04:00

Canadians have been bundled up for too long and finally the warmer temperatures are starting to come back, so as Toronto WNBR organizer Gene Dare says "get your bikes and body ready" for the 2026 edition of the Toronto World Naked Bike Ride. Gene is pictured above, meeting with a fan for a photo op at City Hall.

Google Map of the meetup site in Coronation Park

Riders will meet in Coronation Park, just south of the Exhibition Place Princes' Gates beginning around 10am (or earlier) on Saturday, June 13 where they will socialize, remove clothing, apply sunscreen and bodypaint. Departure happens around 1pm as participants mount bicycles, roller skates, skateboards or scooters for their clothes-free tour of downtown Toronto.

What, you say, is this even possible? Yes, it is. The ride in Toronto was started in 2004 and every year more and more people joined in, until Covid delayed the typical planned second Saturday in June 2020 and some people kept away due to the pandemic. But Covid could only slow them down for one year, now the rides bring hundreds of people, some who join on the spur of the moment as the group rides past.

While the route starts at Coronation Park, it winds through City streets, stopping or passing by some of Toronto's famous and iconic locations, in a general clockwise direction before returning back down to the lake, checking out some parks, then returning to Coronation Park. You can join or leave the group at any time and their are several planned breaks, the longest and most well known is the reflecting pond in City Hall's Nathan Phillips Square (there might not be water as the FIFA celebrations have made the pond into a couple of soccer fields).

The actual route changes slightly every year depending on traffic, construction and whoever is giving directions and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete the ride. Many participants jump on a ferry or water taxi to head over to Hanlan's clothing optional beach on the Toronto Islands, either when the ride first passes the ferry terminals, or after the completion of the ride.

WNBR was started as a protest of the World's dependence on oil, which continues to be an important part of the ride, especially with what is going on in the Middle East, however several other reasons have become ingrained into the meaning of the ride. The Toronto WNBR Facebook page lists several of the reasons.

1. Reducing fossil fuel consumption: By cycling naked, participants show their commitment to more sustainable and less oil-dependent modes of transportation.

2. Cyclist safety: The event highlights the vulnerability of cyclists on the roads and encourages motorists to be more attentive and respectful towards alternative modes of transportation.

3. Body Positivity: By stripping naked to participate in the World Naked Bike Ride, participants celebrate the diversity of human bodies and promote self-acceptance.
This unique event combines activism, awareness, and celebration of bodily freedom. It brings together people from all walks of life for an unforgettable cycling experience.

Some of the stops include bathrooms, but otherwise they are few and far in between. Coronation Park has bathrooms so make sure you empty your tank before heading out. There are also washrooms in a few of the Queens Quay parks, in Trinity Bellwoods Park, in Allan Gardens, at Toronto City Hall and down at the ferry terminals.

Hopefully it will be a beautiful day, but Gene says the ride goes, rain or shine. If it is sunny and warm you will need plenty of fluids and sunscreen, maybe a snack as well. It will always be a good idea to bring a seat cover, especially with rented or borrowed bikes.

The following are things to keep in mind.

Parking is limited in Coronation Park and the meetup location is in and around the Victory-Peace Monument near the giant Canadian flag pole. There will also be reduced parking available nearby as construction of Ontario Place, the expansion and construction area in Exhibition Place due to FIFA upgrades. Even the Princess Margaret Ride to Conquer Cancer 2026 has moved from Exhibition Place to Sherway Gardens. Find someplace to park and ride to Coronation Park, or bike there from home if you can.

The ride can be difficult in that we are riding on city streets with potholes, streetcar tracks and traffic lights and stop signs. Since a large group is participating, all trying to keep together, it is easy to get to close to each other and fall, or go through a rail track and fall, not notice that the group is stopping and fall, or come to a stop and just fall. So just plan on NOT FALLING!

There are usually voluntary marshals that try to keep intersections blocked so only the WNBR can get through as a group, however this inconveniences drivers so try to keep together and remember that some drivers can get a case of road rage when they can't pass, or are delayed.

If you are on your own or leave the group, put on clothes.

People will be at the park watching the group and taking photos. You can wait to take off your clothes until the last minute, or like some people, put on masks to hide your identity. Once the group starts riding, bystanders will usually embrace the ride, cheer on the group and probably take photos and videos. Some will be mad at the WNBR, scream and possibly body shame, but luckily most find the whole event funny.

Rarely do the bicycle mounted police provide an escort (it has only happened a few times). However most years the group will have police show up at Coronation Park because of people calling in to complain about the nudists at the park. Gene contacts police ahead of time to make them aware of the ride and puts up posters and notices, however this does not stop the police checking things out. They will meet with Gene or others, talk a bit, then the police usually leave and the ride continues getting reading for departure.

It's as bare as you dare but do wear footwear and remember bicycle helmets are recommended. Otherwise it is up to you to determine how comfortable you are with being naked or partially naked. The sun can be powerful over the course of the ride so if you aren't covered, get a friend to complete your sunscreen application and don't forget to reapply occasionally.

Bring your own bodypaint, although some people share paint and sometimes there is a pro bodypainter on site (for a fee).

Consider bringing a first aid kit or bandages for falls. There are no lockers nearby so bring a bag or backpack to store your clothes and supplies until you need them again.

There is no cost to join the actual ride, no fundraising required per kilometre, no sign up at all, just join the ride to get word out on the purpose of the WNBR. There is a lot of cheerleading with chants of "less gas, more ass" and "Toronto World Naked Bike Ride".

Sometimes media cover the event, like the CBC or Naked News (with nude reporters) and sometimes a group joins from the Toronto Oasis Aqualounge (a private member adult club) but the most enthusiastic group (I think) that joins is from Bare Oaks Naturist Resort. There are also individuals or small groups that come from other cities, provinces and other countries just to experience the WNBR.

Have fun, enjoy the uniqueness of the annual event, keep orderly, safe and please don't fall.

See some post links from previous rides after the jump.

Niagara Renaissance Faire

2026-05-16T21:58:21.851-04:00

Niagara gets the ball rolling for the Central and Southern Ontario 2026 Renaissance Faire season with their Faire running Saturday to Sunday, May 16 to 17 in Fireman's Park. It is a big park and there is plenty of parking spread throughout the grounds (mostly on grass), a building with bathrooms and vendors as well as vendors through out the Faire area. Additionally there was entertainment, battle (both mounted and dismounted) and quite a few food trucks to keep everyone fed.

Many of the attending guests ($25 adult tickets at the event) also dressed up in various periods and style, such as pirates, medieval, fantasy and even a family of mice. There were also a few leashed dogs on site so it was very pet friendly.

From the Faire's Facebook site, "Welcome, good gentles all, to the Niagara Renaissance Faire!
Pray, gather with us and partake in the revels of the Renaissance, where valiant Knights and their noble Coursers clash in feats of sword and skill, where thou may’st test thy mettle in “Fight the Knight,” and behold stirring contests upon horseback! Try thy hand at Archery and the throwing of the axe; marvel at the Birds of Prey in flight; witness the forge aflame in the Blacksmith’s art; and wander the living Medieval Encampment!

Be entertained by wondrous spectacles and merry minstrels: the conjurations of Zoltan the Adequate, the lofty feats of Aerialist Kai in Wonderland, sweet airs upon the lute by MacLeod the Bard, the gentle strings of Harpist Carol Farrar, and lively bands such as Thunder Glove and Whiskey Business! Peruse the wares of merchants, crafters, readers, and skilled artisans! Feast upon roast pig, mighty turkey legs, and a bounty of victuals fit for lord and commoner alike! Come forth to eat, to drink, and to be merry!
A faire welcoming all ages and families fair and true, with a Pub Night reserved for those of nineteen years and more."

Toronto park washrooms are open for 2026

2026-05-08T10:42:00.002-04:00

City of Toronto has opened seasonal park washrooms. Now that is always good news for those that explore the city or use the parks. They were opened on Monday, May 4, 2026. You can find public washroom locations on Toronto’s website www.toronto.ca/washrooms.

Standalone water fountains should be all turned on by May 25, 2026. The fountain at top is in St. James Park along King Street East

From the City's media release.

"City of Toronto staff are in the process of opening more than 1,000 water assets in parks, including washrooms, water fountains and bottle-filling stations across the city. Throughout this month and into June, City crews will continue opening remaining water assets and facilities such as splash and spray pads, outdoor pools, wading pools and fountains.

Key opening dates:

• Monday, May 4: All seasonal park washrooms will be open, except where capital improvements are underway or repairs are required.

• Saturday, May 16: More than 140 splash and spray pads are expected to open.

• Monday, May 25: All remaining standalone water fountains, bottle filling stations and dog fountains will open in City parks. All fountains are tested to ensure the water is safe to drink when they are activated.

• Saturday, June 6: Lifeguard supervision at 10 beaches begins (10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.).

• Friday, June 13: Early opening of 15 outdoor pools and wading pools on evening and weekend schedules.

• Friday, June 20: All outdoor pools open on an evening and weekend partial schedule.

• Thursday, June 26: All outdoor pools and wading pools open on a full schedule."

“The weather is getting warmer, and I can’t wait to spend more time enjoying our beautiful parks. Having these facilities open means you can pack a picnic, lose track of time, and never have to cut the day short. The parks are yours from morning to evening.”

Berczy Park dog fountain

Forget blossoms because it's baby bird time

2026-05-05T18:32:00.000-04:00

Canada's favourite gangster bird, the infamous Canada Goose, stands ready to attack and defend its brood of tiny, golden goslings - so be on guard. Spring is bringing forth a multitude of baby birds in Ontario. From early May the eggs are starting to hatch and tiny, fuzzy little creatures are keeping close to parents.

Usually you can only really see large quantities of goslings, ducklings and baby swans, or cygnets. The rest of the birds hang out in the nest too long and when we finally see them they are almost indistinguishable from their parents.

It's the season of Cherry Blossoms in Toronto

2026-04-22T20:55:00.003-04:00

This is it people, we are in the stage 3 to stage 6 of Cherry Blossoms. Those florets are extending (stage 3) or even starting to blossom (stage 5) with Peak Blossom weekend expected during the first week of May. In Toronto peak is usually end of April into the beginning of May. UPDATE: May 2, 2026 the peak blossoms have hit in High Park and brought the crowds out to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Queen's Park

On Earth Day (Wednesday, April 22, 2026) the blossoms at the SE corner of Queen's Park are blossoming and could peak over this weekend - just in time for the Spring Celebration on Saturday, April 25. "Say goodbye to winter and hello to the new season at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Spring Celebration—a free, fun-filled day out for the whole family. Rain or shine, step inside one of Ontario’s most iconic landmarks and discover a full day of spring-themed activities, live entertainment, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re 5 or 95, there’s something here to put a smile on your face."

Robarts Library

Also starting to see the start of some blossoms popping out is U of T's Robarts Library at 130 George Street. In High Park the Cherry Watch says it is Stage 3 with anticipated peak bloom in 12 days. Plus the Watch has some great tips for visiting the park during Blossom Festival (hint, there are car restrictions).

Spring is busting out down at City Hall

Some of the pretty pink blossoms in Exhibition Place

Other popular Cherry Blossom trees identified by the City of Toronto (with specific locations)including the following.

Birkdale Ravine - 1100 Brimley Rd. Scarborough
Broadacres Park - 35 Crendon Dr. Etobicoke
Cedar Ridge Park - 225 Confederation Dr. Scarborough
Cedarvale Park - 443 Arlington Ave. York
Centennial Park - 151 Elmcrest Rd. Etobicoke
Cherry Street and Villiers Street - 309 Cherry St. Toronto
Edwards Gardens - 755 Lawrence Ave. E. North York
Exhibition Place - 100 Princes Blvd. Toronto East York
High Park - 142 Colborne Lodge Dr. Toronto
Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre - 6 Garamond Crt. North York
John P. Robarts Research Library - 130 St. George St. Toronto
Legislative Assembly of Ontario (Queen's Park) - 111 Wellesley St. W. Toronto
Toronto Island Park Centre Island (Take the ferry at 9 Queens Quay W). Toronto
Trinity Bellwoods Park - 790 Queen St. W. Toronto
University of Toronto Scarborough Campus - 1265 Military Tr. Scarborough
Woodbine Park - 1695 Queen St. E. Toronto
York University - 4700 Keele St. North York

Welcome Spring and beautiful flowers.

May 1, 2026 Media Release from the City of Toronto

"Cherry blossom peak bloom expected this weekend.

The City of Toronto is predicting that cherry blossom trees will bloom this weekend. Cherry blossoms typically last four to 10 days, depending on weather conditions.

Residents can enjoy cherry blossoms in several locations across Toronto, including city parks and several university campuses. A map of locations and accessibility information is available on the City’s cherry blossoms web page: toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/cherry-blossoms/.

How to enjoy the blossoms
Visitors are asked to protect the blossoms by not climbing the trees and not removing blossoms or branches. Visitors are encouraged to use designated litter and recycling bins for any discarding. City parks contain ecologically sensitive areas, and visitors are asked to stay on paved pathways and trails to help sustain the long-term health of these areas.

High Park
High Park is among the most popular location for visitors to see the cherry blossoms, with tens of thousands visiting annually. To manage visitor volume, there will be no vehicle access (except for TTC and Wheel-Trans) or parking inside High Park for the duration of peak bloom."

Earth Day war against Drake's Ice Wall

2026-04-22T19:33:00.001-04:00

And on the day to celebrate the earth and the bounty it provides, the Toronto Fire Department began the destruction of Drake's now famous mountain of ice. And behold the people in the city said, WTF!

The frozen art installation is apparently a publicity stunt to promote the release of Drake's new album. Inside of the 25 foot high pile of ice blocks there hides the release date of his new album "Iceman". When Drake released the teaser info about the ice, fans began to scratch and look for the reveal date (spoiler it is May 15, 2026) which concerned the police. First they blocked off the parking lot which is located at 81 Bond Street, just off Dundas Street East, close to the Eaton Centre, then on Wednesday they began to blast the ice with a fire truck.

People watched as the streets filled with what was fresh, clean water found that passersby were getting soakers walking by the site. A perfect story for opposite Earth Day, the only thing more fitting would be to pour Middle Eastern oil onto the ice and light it up!

@jmhcet #Toronto #firedepartment is going to war over #Drake's frozen #artinstallation ♬ How Bizarre - OMC

Motorama Custom Car & Motorsports Expo 2026

2026-03-13T11:55:00.010-04:00

Toronto and area's annual automotive exposition celebrating top vehicular cultures returns to the International Centre this weekend (March 13-15, 2026) with the 11th annual Motorama Custom Car & Motorsports Expo presented by ebay motors. Celebrity Mike Hall of Rust Valley Restorers and Rust Bros (the YouTube channel) will be at the show all weekend with his first appearance Friday at 1pm in Hall 2 (Hagerty Stage) while you can also find entertainment, forums, awards, vendors and the popular Miss Motorama Pinup Pageant happening on Saturday. I'm here early on opening day and the joint is already jammed!

The cars in Hall 1 are great examples of power and beauty.

From their website, "Motorama is a celebration of automotive and racing culture. It’s the largest show of its kind, in Canada, and continues a five-decade tradition of bringing car owners, car clubs, racing series, tracks, racing fans and auto enthusiasts together to kick-off Canada’s car show and racing seasons. The 2026 show will start the second half-century of car shows at the same venue, on the same weekend. ‘Dizzy’ Dean Murray’s inaugural Motion Custom Car Show took place in March 1975."

Taking part in Halls 1 through 3 of the International Centre, the show is divided into the following major areas.

Hall 1A: Canadian vehicles and vendors.
Hall 1B: The Gulf Race Fuels Racing Zone presented by Stoneridge Specialty Insurance and InsideTrackNews.com.
Hall 2: Spring Fever: Modified Cars & Culture join car clubs and feature displays along with the main stage and corporate exhibitions.

Hall 3: Motorama Mayhem with classic and vintage cars, pinups and vintage exhibitions.

Show Hours: Fri-Sat, March 13-14, 2026 (10am-8pm)Sun, March 15, 2026 (10am-5pm).

Mike Hall on the Hagerty Stage

Note: Friday is WD-40 Students’ Day at Motorama, in association with Conestoga College.

@jmhcet A beautiful red #hotrod at the 2026 #motorama ♬ Move It On Over - George Thorogood & The Destroyers

See more of Motorama after the jump.

A rolling casket with the Grim Reaper posing for photos

Lumière 2026 light festival at Ontario Place

2026-03-04T23:25:00.007-05:00

Lumière: The Art of Light began on Family Day (Monday, February 16) in Trillium Park on the east side of Ontario Place. The free light festival features fourteen installations and will continue until March 27, 2026 from 6pm to 11pm. Rhythms of Chaos set up prior to the official opening in the photo above.

From their website, "Lumière transforms Trillium Park into a glowing outdoor gallery filled with illuminated art installations. This free experience is ideal for families, art enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a winter stroll with a little extra magic. Bonfires: Warm up by the Trillium Park fire pit on opening night, Friday and Saturday evenings, and nightly during March Break (weather permitting)."

Lumiere 2026 theme is "Rhythms of Light: Motion, Sound and Time". This year's event includes the following light installations.

Arbor – MattCreative
Blueberry Babies Signal Path – Winta (Wintana) Hagos
Constellation Range – Jordan Shaw
Echoes of Light – Jordan St. Claire
Möbius Ensemble – Bitbrainz
Moment – M. Joakim
PORTAL – Tonya Hart
Rhythms of Chaos – Binalpreet Kalra, Maggie Wang, Kallie Zhang
Ripples in Time – Gathering
switch/grass – The Treehouse Collective
Urbanombre – Little Dada + the Boys
Voice in Matter – James Craig, Agata Wszolek, Alex Warner
We Move Together – Tyler Burey
WIND II: The Wave – Samuel Kiehoon Lee

The easiest way to get to Trillium Park is to public transit, walk or bike, otherwise you could find paid parking nearby - at Coronation Park or in Exhibition Place. There are also great bathrooms available at the entrance to Trillium Park and the skyline views to the downtown skyline are excellent.

@jmhcet #moment art and light installation in #ontarioplace as part of #lumiere ♬ Let Me Entertain You - Robbie Williams

@jmhcet #rhythmsofchaos art and light installation in #ontarioplace as part of #lumiere the art of light, #Toronto ♬ sonido original - vieja guardia

Toronto Motorcycle and Powersport Show 2026

2026-02-20T11:53:00.007-05:00

Ready to ride? Probably not just yet, but it is warming up so come by the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place from February 20 to 22, 2026 to check out the latest models during the Toronto Motorcycle and Powersport Show. Also get ready for some excitement with Canada’s very own Highway Heathens putting on a motorcycle stunt performance as well as guest Seth Enslow, freestyle motocross superstar.

Highway Heathens put on quick demo before show opens. Their first show is Friday at noon.

TerreMX all-electric motorcycles demos

From the show, "Get ready for an action-packed weekend celebrating the world of motorcycles and powersports! Discover the latest bikes, gear, and accessories from top brands, plus exciting displays and hands-on experiences for riders of all ages. This is more than just a show — it’s the best place to buy. Exclusive show-only deals on motorcycles. Huge savings on riding gear, apparel, parts, and accessories with special promotions you won’t find anywhere else."

There are several areas along the outside of the hall where you can find Moto Intro, ADV Showcase, Yamaha Riding Academy, Electric MX Test Rides, Jordan Szoke Demo and the Westjet EXPLR Zone.

Dylan Wright will be signing autographs in the Honda area over the weekend.

Show Hours:
Fri Feb 20 11am – 8pm
Sat Feb 21 10am – 7pm
Sun Feb 22 10am – 5pm

2026's show has the machines, gear and attractions - like Seth Enslow's legendary Metal Mulisha Honda 250 (featured in Crusty Demons of Dirt 7), to make this a fantastic weekend in Exhibition Place. You can also see the TerreMX all-electric motorcycles demos on an indoor dirt track and a synthetic X-Track.

There is even an app you can download that provides all sorts of info including a floor plan and event schedules, it is called myshowapp and you can use it for multiple shows.

See more of the show after the jump.

@jmhcet the #highwayheathens #motorcycle #stuntriders at #Toronto #motorcycleandpowersportshows2026 ♬ original sound - jmhcet 🇨🇦

Toronto Winter Stations Exhibition 2026

2026-02-16T19:35:00.001-05:00

The design competition has been completed and the artistic and architectural installations have been built along the water's edge of Woodbine Beach as part of Toronto Winter Stations. Beginning in 2015 the non-profit, international competition tries to place four to six installations each year in the Beaches - an open air, free to attend art festival. After reviewing and approving the submissions, winners are given a budget for construction and a small monetary prize with the installations exhibited from February's Family Day until the end of March (February 16 to March 30, 2026).

This year features five winners which competed under the theme of Mirage as described by the Winter Stations organization, "A mirage is a shimmer at the edge of reality, appearing real only to dissolve when approached. The present moment feels much the same, bent and distorted by the rise of digital silos and artificial intelligence, where the truth we seek is always shifting."

My favourites for 2026 include Embrace as well as Chimera, however they are all worth the visit to the eastern beaches and I always look forward to the escape from winter's grey hold on the psyche. Here are the winners with insight by the creatorsdesigners.

"Colossal hands, reaching out. To hold the horizon. To present the day.

An invitation to behold and to be held. Welcome their embrace. Change your point of view."

Embrace by Will Cuthbert (Canada)

"Moving closer – the illusion unravels, revealing the framework that sustains it. In this encounter, the viewer meets their own reflection multiplied and displaced, a shifting constellation of selves that provokes an uneasy awareness of being observed."

Chimera by Denys Horodnyak & Enzo Zak Lux (Germany & Ukraine)

See more of the installations after the jump.

"Crest emerges from the sand and snow of the Toronto Beaches as a sweeping wave positioned moments before break. From afar, the installation resembles a mere pile of driftwood washed up on the beach."

Crest by University of Waterloo School of Architecture and the Department of Architectural Engineering (Canada)

"One of the openings reveals the truth, while the others show mirages, pieces of the surroundings, stripped of context, confusing distance and direction. Through periscope-like mirrors, set at 45-degree angles, those who pass through experience the ground, the sky, the boardwalk, and themselves before finally seeing the true image ahead of them: the lifeguard chair and the lake."

Specularia by Tornado Soup: Andrew Clark (USA)

"A series of vertical polycarbonate panels, filled with water from the lake nearby, creates a set of ice lenses that glaciate the stand. As the lake water freezes and thaws, the panels cycle through phases of transparency, translucency, and full opacity."

Glaciate by Toronto Metropolitan University Department of Architectural Science in collaboration with Ming Chuan University School of Design (Canada & Taiwan)

@jmhcet #embrace art and architectural installation in #Toronto for the #winterstations ♬ Keep Your Hands To Yourself - Rock Classic Hits Allstars

@jmhcet #chrimera #art and #architectural installation in #Toronto for #winterstations ♬ Somebody's Watching Me - Rockwell

Toronto Illuminite light festival 2026

2026-02-15T16:34:00.004-05:00

oronto has the Illuminite light festival returning for 2026 with five light installations spread around the downtown Yonge area. Below is a copy of the route map for the event.

From the Illuminite website, "From February 13 to March 8, 2026, the city will glow with creativity and colour at 777 Bay Plaza, College Park, Granby Parkette, Sankofa Square, and Trinity Square Park. Each site will feature a playful, interactive experience designed to spark joy, movement, and connection in the heart of winter. Whether you’re a curious explorer or just passing through, ILLUMINITE 2026 invites everyone to pause, play, and light up the city together."

The installations are as follows.

5. DOMINO EFFECT by Ingrid Ingrid in Trinity Square Park 19 Trinity Square.

OVAL SWINGS by Prevail Activations and is located at 777 Bay Plaza.

HORIZON by MattCreative in College Park at the Yonge Street entrance 420 Yonge St.

HEARTS AT PLAY by Daria Domnikova in Granby Parkette 431 Yonge St.

POP! by Gentilhomme in Sankofa Square 1 Dundas St E. You have to speak, sing or dance and the installations will transform.

@jmhcet #dominoeffect in #trinitysquarepark #Toronto as part of #illuminite light festival. #downtownyonge ♬ original sound - BringingTheNostalgia

@jmhcet #ovalswings in #Toronto by Prevail Activations as part of #yongebia #illuminite light festival #art ♬ How Bizarre - OMC

@jmhcet #POP! by Gentilhomme in #sankofasquare #Toronto, part of #yongebia #illuminite ♬ The Rockafeller Skank - Fatboy Slim

Toronto Spring Lunar New Year Celebration 2026

2026-02-14T22:12:00.007-05:00

This is the final weekend of the current Lunar New Year and now, as the Year of the Horse arrives on Tuesday, February 17, it's time to begin your journey of renewal and hope while enjoying Chinese traditions during the Toronto Spring Lunar New Year and Spring Festival Fireworks in Nathan Phillips Square. The festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, February 14 to 15, 2026 from 2pm till 11pm. Their website poster is shown in the photo at top.

Fireworks are an integral part of Chinese culture and have been around for a couple thousand years and they will be part of this year's event with the fireworks countdown beginning at 8:30pm on Sunday. "Join us as we light up the night to chase away the cold and welcome the Year of the Horse - a journey filled with warmth, inclusivity, and prosperity."

Schedule of Free Events

Saturday Feb. 14th, Outdoor | Free

ECHO Market from 2:30 pm

Main Stage
Energy Boost Workout 3pm

Cultural Showcase 3:30pm and 7:55pm

Variety Shows 5:00pm and 8:20pm
DJ 9:15pm

Ice Shows
Dragon & Lion Dance on Ice 4:00pm, 6:00pm and 8:30pm
Couture on Ice Fashion Show 6:40pm

Sunday Feb. 15th, Outdoor | Free

ECHO Market from 2:30 pm

Ice Shows
Dragon & Lion Dance on Ice 3:00pm, 5:30pm and 7:00pm

Main Stage
Energy Boost Workout 9:30pm

Variety Shows 6:20pm and 7:40pm

Fireworks Countdown 8:30pm

See more photos after the jump.

@jmhcet #fireworks during #lunarnewyear celebrations at #Toronto city hall, February 2026. #yearofhorse2026 ♬ son original - ★𝐏-𝐋𝐘𝐑𝐈𝐂★