The 5th annual Dundas West Fest is back again for another Saturday of fun-filled events. The festival encompasses Dundas West for 1.5km west to Landsdowne, and features something for everyone, with most of the local businesses participating.
About Dundas West Fest
This is the 5th year of this street festival, and it has always been a big success! So many local businesses participate that it really feels community focused. Not just businesses, either, the community centres, retirement homes and churches also get involved. The event starts at 10am and runs until midnight. Expect crowds and some food and drink line-ups in the afternoon and evening, especially if the weather is good!
The festival includes music, comedy, dance, art, shopping, eating, drinking, and activities for kids. While we don’t have the whole schedule of events, here’s an overview.
Music
There are a few stages scattered along Dundas West.
Lakeview Avenue Stage (Beer Store Parking Lot)
This stage, closest to Ossington, is programmed by The Garrison, and it’s another great line-up of talented local Toronto rock bands. The show starts at 5pm, and there will be standing room on the street, or grab a seat at The Garrison or another local patio. The music will run through 11pm. More event information here.
Lulaworld Stage
Once again, the team from Lula Lounge brings a world music vibe to Dundas West Fest. The free live music starts at 1pm with a huge brass show, open to any horn players who want to participate (there’s a video on their event page so performers can practice!). After that kick-off, the horn theme continues with a slate of talented jazz musicians, until 11PM. The stage is located at Dundas and Brock.
Word On The Street Literary Pop-Up
Literary festival Word on The Street is popping up at St. Clarens Parkette and Dundas West this Saturday. Many authors and publishers will host panels and readings. The plan is to incorporate local groups and writers and offer something or the whole family. Get your literary fix on Saturday from 11:30am to 6pm.
Slow Dance and Get Down
The dancing scene is strong again, with this event recurring for the 4th year. Taking over from Word on The Street at St Clarens, the dancing starts at 7:30. Everybody, old and young, is welcome to dance at Dundas West Fest.
Shopping
Vintage Market
With the wealth of vintage shops in this part of town, it’s no wonder there’s a big vintage market at Dundas West Fest. This year, local shop Life of Manek curates the sale, located on the street between Gladstone and Dovercourt.
Rummage Sale
Elephant in the Attic hosts a sale in honor of Dundas West Fest, at 1596 Dundas Street West.
Free Street Yoga
Studio Blue Yoga and Fitness is offering a free class outside to start the day off great. At 10am, bring your mat to the studio at Dundas West of Gladstone for street yoga!
Food and Drink and Patios
The local bars and restaurants will have extended patios and be serving up their best creations. Expect the Portuguese bakeries and butcher shops to serve Portuguese favorites as well! With all the patios, you will find it difficult to make a decision, but knowing the depth and breadth of Dundas West eateries, it will be a good one!
Follow us on instagram and facebook to see live photos. The Festival’s official hashtag is #DuWestFest for your own posts.
For your reference, here are photos from last year’s event to get you excited.
