This weekend, from July 4 to 6, Toronto’s Scarborough neighbourhood is hosting the much-loved Taste of Lawrence—the Wexford Heights BIA’s massive street festival. Now in its 21st year, it takes over Lawrence Ave. East between Warden and Birchmount, closing the street from 10 a.m. Friday through 1 a.m. Monday is for this free, three-day celebration.
Festival Schedule
- Friday, July 4: 6 p.m.–11 p.m.
- Saturday, July 5: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
- Sunday, July 6: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
What to Expect
- Over 150 street vendors featuring international cuisine representing the GTA’s rich diversity.
- Two main stages:
- Main stage: Tribute bands, local acts, and a beer garden.
- Family stage: Cultural performances from local dance studios, live music, and the Rising Stars Talent Show sponsored by JDance Studio
- Midway rides, amusements, and free kids workshops (soccer, basketball, archery) run throughout the weekend.
- Ultimate crowd-pleaser: The Ultimutts Stunt Dog Show, featuring stunning acts like skateboarding, tightrope walking, and even driving mini-cars. Showtimes:
- Sat (July 5): 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m.
- Sun (July 6): 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.
- Rising Stars Talent Show on Saturday lets local up-and-coming performers shine—and possibly take home prizes.
- Epic prizes: Fill out a survey at the booth near Ainsdale Rd. to enter:
- All-inclusive trip for 2 to Antigua & Barbuda
- Exotic car experience with GTA Exotics (a 4‑lap supercar ride)
- Plus giveaways, including $100 dining vouchers at Pho Metro and tickets to the Aga Khan Museum
Entertainment Highlights
From lively tribute acts to walkabout performers, the entertainment lineup has something for everyone:
- Main stage stars tribute bands like Aeroforce, Elton Rohn, and Motown Mania, alongside local favourites Sugar, Sonic Square, and Alessia Cohle
- Busker Zone features Hala on Stilts, Kiki Totally Outrageous, Moira Blaise Movement, and even beloved princess characters—perfect for family photos.
- The beer garden provides a relaxed spot beside the main stage to sip and savour.
Community & Culture
Organized by the Wexford Heights BIA—now representing over 245 local businesses—the festival reflects Scarborough’s multicultural roots. The BIA, founded in 2004 by Councillor Michael Thompson, builds local pride through events like this one.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Lawrence Ave E between Warden Ave and Birchmount Rd, Scarborough, ON
- Admission: Free and open to everyone.
- Transport & Parking: Streets will be closed from 10 a.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Monday—plan for detours or public transit
Why You Should Go
- Global flavours: Travel the world via food—all within a few blocks.
- Top-tier events: Dog stunts, live music, cultural dance, and vibrant performances.
- Family-friendly: Free workshops, midway rides, and buskers make it ideal for kids.
- Community vibe: A warm, inclusive weekend that celebrates local businesses and talent.
So, bring your friends, your appetite, and your sense of fun to the Taste of Lawrence happening all weekend long. Attendees can look forward to sampling different cuisine, cheering on a Rising Star, and maybe even watching a dog do a backflip! The Taste of Lawrence promises something memorable for everyone.
Enjoy the festivities and don’t forget to explore the diverse culinary delights and community spirit of Scarborough’s largest street festival this July!
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