MusicJul
Beaches International Jazz Festival
Free jazz and blues on Queen East with sand between your toes.
When
July 1–19, 2026
Where
Queen Street East, Kew Gardens
Area
The Beach
Cost
Free
Format
outdoor
Attendance
500K+ visitors
Running Since
1989 (37 years)
Family Friendly
Yes
VT Insider Tip
The main Streetfest stage at Kew Gardens is packed. For better sound and more space, check out the smaller stages along the route. The blues stages are consistently underrated.
About
The Beaches Jazz Festival is one of Toronto's most beloved free events. For two weeks in July, Queen Street East from Woodbine to Beech transforms into an outdoor music venue. The Streetfest weekend closes the street to traffic for three days of continuous live music, food vendors, and community celebration.
What to Expect
Two weeks of programming, culminating in the big Streetfest weekend. Free outdoor stages, food vendors, artisan market. 500,000+ people over the festival run.
Pro Tips
Bring a lawn chair or blanket for Kew Gardens. Arrive by 5pm on Streetfest Saturday for a good spot near any stage. The restaurants along Queen East run festival specials.
Getting There
501 Queen streetcar to Woodbine. During Streetfest weekend, expect very crowded streetcars. Cycling is the best option — lock up on a side street.