Toronto bursts with energy in June 2025, and Est Hotel is your gateway to the city’s best festivals. This budget hotel, nestled in downtown Toronto, offers modern comfort and unbeatable access to cultural hotspots.
Whether you love art, seek adventure, or enjoy culture, three big events in June will offer great experiences. These events are the Beaches Arts & Crafts Show, the Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival, and the Indigenous Arts Festival.
Here’s your guide to exploring these events while staying at Est Hotel. It includes tips, highlights, and reasons why this hotel is the best base for your Toronto adventure.
Beaches Arts & Crafts Show (June 14-15, 2025)
Held in the charming Kew Gardens, the Signatures Beaches Arts & Crafts Show is a highlight of Toronto’s summer. On June 14-15, 2025, over 150 artisans will transform this lakeside park into a vibrant marketplace. Expect handmade treasures like pottery, jewelry, textiles, and eco-friendly body care products.
Food trucks serve local favorites, from gourmet tacos to vegan desserts, while live music adds to the festive vibe. The Beaches neighborhood is only 20 minutes from Est Hotel by streetcar. It has a relaxed and artsy vibe, making it great for a day out.
What to Expect
Wander through rows of booths showcasing unique creations. Artisans range from emerging talents to seasoned crafters, offering one-of-a-kind pieces. The event is family-friendly, with activities like face painting for kids.
The nearby boardwalk along Lake Ontario is perfect for a post-event stroll. Bring cash for smaller vendors, as some may not accept cards.
- Highlights: Unique crafts, local food, lakeside views.
- Tips: Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Distance from Est Hotel: 5 miles, ~20 minutes by transit.
- Learn more.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
This event captures Toronto’s creative spirit. It’s a chance to support local artists and find gifts you won’t see in stores. The Beaches area also boasts quaint cafes and shops, ideal for extending your day. Pair your visit with a stop at Woodbine Beach for a full summer experience.
Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival (June 14-15, 2025)
For high-energy fun, head to Centre Island for the Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival on June 14-15, 2025. This cultural celebration features teams from across the globe racing vibrant dragon boats across Lake Ontario.
The festival, accessible by a 15-minute ferry from downtown, blends athletic competition with diverse performances. Expect live music, dance, and food stalls offering everything from dim sum to jerk chicken. The Toronto skyline provides a stunning backdrop, making this a must-visit for Est Hotel guests.
Event Highlights
Watch 20-paddler teams battle it out in synchronized races. The festival also hosts cultural showcases, including lion dances and taiko drumming. Family-friendly activities like crafts and games keep kids entertained.
Food vendors cater to all tastes, with vegan and gluten-free options available. The island’s green spaces are perfect for picnics or relaxing between races.
- Key Features: Thrilling races, diverse food, cultural performances.
- Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Ferry Info: Check schedules.
- Distance from Est Hotel: ~3 miles, including ferry ride.
Why You’ll Love It
The festival’s energy is contagious, blending sport and culture in a unique setting. Centre Island’s laid-back vibe makes it a great escape from the city. For Est Hotel guests, it’s an easy day trip that combines adventure and relaxation. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection while cheering on the teams.
Indigenous Arts Festival (June 20-21, 2025)
Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Month at the Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York, happening June 20-21, 2025. This free event honors First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures through music, dance, and artisan markets.
The festival takes place at the historic Fort York. It is only 10 minutes from Est Hotel. The event explores Indigenous heritage in detail. Expect traditional drumming, storytelling, and workshops on crafts like beadwork. The event is both educational and entertaining, perfect for all ages.
What to See and Do
Browse artisan stalls for handmade jewelry, carvings, and textiles. Performances include throat singing and powwow dances, showcasing Indigenous traditions. Interactive sessions let you learn about cultural practices, like smudging or Métis fiddle music.
Food vendors serve dishes like bannock and smoked fish. The historic fort adds a unique backdrop, blending past and present.
- Highlights: Cultural performances, artisan markets, free entry.
- Tips: Bring a notebook for workshops; arrive early for seating.
- Distance from Est Hotel: 2 miles, ~10 minutes by transit.
- Fort York info.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
This festival offers a meaningful way to connect with Indigenous cultures. It’s a chance to learn, reflect, and celebrate diversity. The free admission makes it accessible, and Fort York’s proximity to Est Hotel ensures a stress-free visit. Pair it with a walk through nearby Liberty Village for a full day out.