Things To Do In Durham Region and the GTA: July 11 – July 24, 2026

Summer is one of the best times to explore everything Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area have to offer. Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a unique date night, or simply searching for somewhere new to spend the day, there are plenty of memorable experiences waiting just around the corner.

This edition features some of our favourite festivals, local attractions, outdoor adventures and summer destinations happening over the next two weeks. Many are free to attend, while others are well worth the trip.

Grab your calendar, invite some friends or family, and start planning your next adventure!

Featured Summer Festivals

Whitby Ribfest PLUS

Dates: Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12, 2026

Hours

• Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location
Victoria Fields
345 Watson Street West, Whitby

One of Durham Region's favourite summer traditions returns with award-winning barbecue, delicious food trucks, live entertainment, KidFest activities, midway rides, local vendors and a licensed beer garden.

Friday evening features a special performance by Canadian rock band The Trews, making this an outstanding way to kick off your summer weekend. Whether you're there for the ribs, the music or simply the atmosphere, Whitby Ribfest PLUS has something for everyone.

Beaches International Jazz Festival

Dates: Festival runs July 3 – 26, 2026
(Featured: July 11 – 24)

Location
Woodbine Park & Queen Street East, Toronto

One of Canada's largest free music festivals transforms Toronto's east end into a celebration of incredible live music.

Spend the day enjoying performances in Woodbine Park before exploring StreetFest, where Queen Street East becomes a lively pedestrian destination filled with musicians, restaurants, patios, food vendors and local shops.

Whether you're a lifelong jazz fan or simply enjoy live music on a warm summer evening, this festival delivers something special.

TD Salsa in Toronto Festival

Dates: Saturday, July 11 & Sunday, July 12, 2026

Hours

• Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
• Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Location
St. Clair Avenue West & Winona Drive, Toronto

Experience one of Toronto's most colourful cultural celebrations featuring energetic Latin music, dancing, authentic cuisine, family entertainment and vibrant street performances.

Whether you dance or simply enjoy the incredible atmosphere, this festival offers an unforgettable summer experience.

Family Fun

Summer Fun at Pingle's Farm

Open Daily

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location
1805 Taunton Road, Hampton

Few places capture the feeling of a Durham Region summer quite like Pingle's Farm.

Spend the day picking fresh strawberries and seasonal produce, enjoying wagon rides, visiting friendly farm animals, exploring the children's play areas and stopping by the bakery for homemade treats.

It's a classic family outing that creates lasting summer memories.

Ernie Coombs is Mr. Dressup

Dates: July 11 – September 25, 2026

Hours

• Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location
John E. Anderson Gallery
2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering

Take a nostalgic journey celebrating one of Canada's most beloved television personalities.

This heartwarming exhibition features original props, costumes, memorabilia and archival footage highlighting the remarkable career of Ernie Coombs, forever remembered as Mr. Dressup.

It's a wonderful experience for adults who grew up watching the show and younger generations discovering a true Canadian icon.

Toronto Islands

Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Departure
Jack Layton Ferry Terminal
9 Queens Quay West, Toronto

Escape the city without really leaving it.

Ride the ferry across Toronto Harbour and enjoy sandy beaches, bike rentals, picnic areas, walking trails, Centreville Amusement Park and spectacular skyline views.

It's one of the GTA's best day trips during the summer months.

Explore Durham Region

Twilight Tuesday Pop-Up

Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location
Markets Ontario
62 King Street West, Bowmanville

Historic Downtown Bowmanville comes alive for another Twilight Tuesday evening.

Browse handcrafted goods from local artisans, enjoy extended shopping hours, grab dinner at one of the downtown restaurants and soak up the relaxed community atmosphere.

It's a wonderful excuse to spend an evening supporting local businesses while enjoying one of Durham Region's most charming downtowns.

Explore Historic Downtown Port Perry

Date: Any Day

Location
Queen Street & Water Street, Port Perry

Sometimes the best adventures don't require a ticket.

Spend the day wandering Port Perry's historic downtown, discovering independent boutiques, antique stores, cafés, restaurants, galleries and beautiful waterfront parks overlooking Lake Scugog.

Whether you're shopping, dining or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Port Perry always makes for a relaxing summer escape.

Perfect Date Nights

Theatre on the Ridge

Dates: Various performances July 11 – 24, 2026

Performance Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location
16210 Island Road, Port Perry

Treat yourself to an unforgettable evening of live theatre overlooking beautiful Lake Scugog. Theatre on the Ridge combines outstanding performances with a picturesque outdoor setting, creating one of Durham Region's most unique summer date-night experiences.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for something different to do, this is an evening you'll remember.

Harbourfront Centre

Hours

• Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Friday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location
235 Queens Quay West, Toronto

Toronto's waterfront comes alive during the summer with free concerts, cultural festivals, outdoor performances, public art installations, waterfront patios and spectacular lake views.

Whether you spend a couple of hours or the entire day, Harbourfront Centre is always worth the visit.

Distillery Historic District

Hours

• Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location
55 Mill Street, Toronto

End your day wandering the charming cobblestone streets of the Distillery Historic District.

Boutique shops, art galleries, cafés, award-winning restaurants and inviting patios make this one of Toronto's most romantic neighbourhoods to explore on a warm summer evening.

Bonus Pick

St. Lawrence Market

Open: Tuesday – Sunday

Hours

• Tuesday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location
93 Front Street East, Toronto

Food lovers won't want to miss one of Toronto's most iconic destinations.

Browse more than 100 specialty vendors offering everything from artisan cheeses and gourmet baked goods to fresh local produce and international flavours. Be sure to sample the famous peameal bacon sandwich while you're there.

Whether you're shopping for dinner or simply exploring, St. Lawrence Market is a delicious addition to any Toronto day trip.

Thinking About Making a Move?

One of the things we love most about living in Durham Region is the incredible lifestyle it offers.

From award-winning festivals and live entertainment to charming downtowns, waterfront parks and family-friendly attractions, there's always something new to discover.

If you're thinking about buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, or relocating to Durham Region or the GTA, we'd be honoured to help you make your next move with confidence.

To help give our clients added peace of mind, we offer exclusive buyer and seller programs designed to help make the process easier.

Your Home Sold in Under 60 Days GUARANTEED or I'll Sell It for FREE!*

When it's time to sell, timing matters.

Our exclusive Seller Guarantee is designed to give you added confidence by helping ensure your home sells within the agreed time frame, or we'll sell it for FREE.*

VIP Cash Savings Guarantee*

Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions you'll ever make.

That's why we negotiate aggressively on your behalf. If we don't negotiate at least $10,000 off the purchase price of your next home, we'll pay you $1,000 on closing.*

Whether you're buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, we're here to help.

Complete the Contact Form and let us know in the Comments section if you'd like more information about:

• Buying a Home
• Selling Your Home
• Your Home Sold in Under 60 Days GUARANTEED or I'll Sell It for FREE!*
• VIP Cash Savings Guarantee*
• Your Home's Current Market Value
• Homes Currently Available in Durham Region

We'll be happy to provide the information you're looking for and answer your questions, with absolutely no obligation.

Thank you for reading. We hope you enjoy everything Durham Region and the GTA have to offer over the next two weeks. Have a wonderful summer!


 

Thanks For Reading Today’s BLOG!

Brian Kondo
Sales Representative / Team Leader
The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team
Re/Max Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.
905-683-7800 office
905-426-7484 direct
brian@briankondo.com
www.BrianKondo.com
www.BrianKondoTeam.com


If you or anyone you know is considering making a move in the next little while, give me a call or pass on my number ... 905-683-7800 (Office) or 905-426-7484 (Direct).

If you would like to see any of my previous blog posts, please click here!