Toronto 
The Beaches Jazz Festival, a cornerstone of Toronto’s music scene since 1989, is set to dazzle audiences once again with its 36th annual event this July.
Credit: Beaches International Jazz Festival
The festival will feature over 1,000 musicians, ranging from local talents to international stars, across multiple genres including jazz, salsa, hip hop, and more. This month-long celebration, free to all attendees, will take place in Toronto’s vibrant east end, primarily at Jimmie Simpson and Woodbine Parks, culminating in an outdoor street party along Queen St. E.
The festivities kick off on July 5th at Jimmie Simpson Park with the Sounds of Leslieville and Riverside. Highlights include Neon Nostalgic, known for its retro music experience, and Quincy Bullen, a pianist known for his eclectic fusion of jazz and electronic music.
Woodbine Park will host several themed weekends, starting with Salsa on the Beach from July 12-14, featuring performances by Yani Borrel and a tribute to Frankie Ruiz. The following weekend, dubbed TD Weekend, will celebrate the Soul of Motown, featuring iconic hits from the era. The OLG Weekend, starting July 26, promises a vibrant dance party with both international and local DJs.
The festival will wrap up with Streetfest from July 25-27, transforming Queen St. E into a lively street party with music, food trucks, and vendors. Each segment of the festival is designed to showcase different musical styles and offer something for everyone, reinforcing the festival’s role in celebrating and uniting through music.
Beaches International Jazz Festival 2024 Initial Lineup
Beaches International Jazz Festival
Sounds of Leslieville and Riverside, Jimmie Simpson Park, July 5-7
- Neon Nostalgic: Considered one of the top retro acts in the world, this live band creates a truly immersive retrospective experience, syncing their show with music videos.
- Quincy Bullen: A multi-talented pianist, producer, DJ, and performer whose infectious energy and eclectic jazz, R&B and soul fusion, Quincy has a devoted following for his captivating fusion of funk, electronic, hip hop and house.
- Big Band Series: If swing is your thing, this is where to be.
- Purple Rain Revisited; Prince cover band.
Salsa on the Beach, Woodbine Park; July 12-14
- Yani Borrel has emerged as a powerful entertainer with a unique voice embodying true Salsa expression. Born in Cuba, he began his career from his native town and has dominated the Latin music scene in Canada since moving to Toronto.
- Tribute to Salsa King Frankie Ruiz: Known as the King of Salsa, Frankie Ruiz was a major figure in the salsa romántica subgenre that was popular in the 1980s and early 1990s. Fans can salsa and reminisce to his classics by starlight.
- Juan De Sedas and feat. Flow Guarare embrace Cumbia, Salsa, and Latin Jazz embracing the intersection of history and culture.
- Free Salsa lessons on a first-come first serve basis.
TD Weekend, Woodbine Park, July 18-21
- Soul of Motown: From the Supremes to the smooth sounds of The Temptations, experience the greatest hits that shaped a generation.
- Jordon Astra creates music you feel with your soul, with a sound that blends the likes of Pharrell, SG Lewis, and Jamiroquai. Jordan’s had millions of streams, performed at NXNE, and interviewed artists like Jessie Reyez.
- Boom Shaka Lakas: If you like to boogie, this is your jam. Dance the night away to tracks straight out of Studio 54 with classics by Donna Summer, Sister Sledge, Earth, Wind and Fire, Chic, The Trammps, The Bee Gees, Patti LaBelle, KC and the Sunshine Band and more. Disco attire is encouraged!
OLG Weekend, Woodbine Park, July 26-28
- Groovin’ in the Park: This weekend long dance party brings together the best of Toronto’s dance music scene and culture with performances by internationally and locally-known DJs to be announced.
- Kman and the 45’s: This is where Ska meets Rock & Roll. One of Canada’s most well-known and loved Ska bands, the band’s relentless touring and hyperactive live shows keep turning heads.
Streetfest: 7PM to 11PM, Queen St. E. Between Woodbine and Beech Avenues, July 25-27
- Toronto’s biggest outdoor street party, and Beaches Jazz Fest’s grand finale sees Queen St. E. transform into a fete to remember with diverse bands, food trucks, vendors, and more!
