Toronto 
Do you prefer Monterey Jack, Gruyére, mozzarella or Gouda as the star of the humble grilled cheese sandwich?
Credit: Scott Eckersley on Unsplash
No idea? Then, head to Etobicoke to decide as the cheesiest celebration of perfectly gooey, delicious grilled cheese sandwiches is taking place this weekend.
The Lakeshore Village BIA is rolling out the red carpet to showcase the very best this neighbourhood has to offer in its much-anticipated annual street festival.
Prepare your appetite for a tantalizing adventure as dozens of vendors and exhibitors converge to serve up gooey goodness. From classic favourites to innovative creations, the Grilled Cheese Challenge promises to be a cheese lover’s paradise.
Why “challenge,” you ask? Challengers will offer up their take on best grilled cheese sandwich and compete for the Judges’ Prize of “Best Grilled Cheese.” You will also have the opportunity to taste and vote for your favourite creations.
Here are the other highlights of the festival:
- Family and Pet-Friendly Activities: The event includes diverse family-oriented activities in the Kids Zone and multiple dog shows. The Superdogs show, with four daily performances (12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm), promises fun and interaction for pet lovers.
- Live Entertainment: Continuous live music will set the festival’s lively tone, featuring bands and performers across three entertainment zones.
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- The Great Lakes Brewery Entertainment Zone features an all-day set by DJ Domenic and performances beginning with the Royal Canadian Navy Band. The Smokin’ Darts bring a fiery mix of blues, surf, and rock, followed by Jr. Milla & The United Groove with uplifting reggae-infused sounds. Wild Shot Honey closes with high-energy party rock anthems.
- At the Fifth Street Entertainment Zone, DADMÖTÖRFINGER starts the day at noon with gritty ’90s rock covers. Matt & Sarah Music bring soulful sibling harmonies, followed by Karen & The Hayter with a vibrant set of nostalgic and contemporary tunes. The evening wraps with Really Big Shiny Tunes, a tribute to classic ’90s rock.
- In the Fourth Street Entertainment Zone, Robert O’Neill opens with folk music followed by GrooveStone with classic rock and pop hits, and The Grady Brothers bring high-energy crowd-pleasers. The Serotones blend retro rockabilly with modern hits. Fire10 Entertainment finishes the evening with a lively Caribbean performance featuring drumming, fire-eating, and limbo dancing.
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- Shop!: While you’re there, take a leisurely stroll and explore the local businesses that make Lakeshore Village shine. Don’t forget to check out the market vendors and exhibitors offering unique products and experiences.
- Great Lakes Brewery and Classic Car Show: Adults can unwind in the Great Lakes Brewery Beer Garden with specialty beer and cheese pairings, while classic car enthusiasts will enjoy an impressive display of vintage and contemporary cars.
This year’s festival also supports Women’s Habitat of Etobicoke, offering a chance to contribute to a charitable cause while enjoying the festivities.
Lakeshore Village’s Grilled Cheese Challenge Street Festival is a treat you won’t want to miss! Did we mention that the festival is free?
Lakeshore Village’s Grilled Cheese Challenge Street Festival
The Grilled Cheese Challenge is Ontario’s largest celebration of grilled cheese sandwiches, featuring live music, entertainment, fantastic food, specialty drinks, beverage gardens, shopping, family fun zones, dog shows and much more!
When: Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 09:00 PM
Where: Lake Shore Village, Etobicoke
How Much: Free
