Toronto, ON — The Toronto Jazz Festival launched its 2025 edition this past weekend with a soulful and high-energy lineup of free concerts and headlining shows in the city’s downtown core. As of today—Monday, June 23—the 10-day festival is in full swing and continues until Sunday, June 29, with daily performances and marquee acts still to come.
🎵 Free Outdoor Shows in Yorkville Continue
The OLG Village Stage at Village of Yorkville Park drew thousands over the opening weekend with free performances by Broken Social Scene and On Their Shoulders. Families, jazz enthusiasts, and curious passersby gathered under sunny skies to take in the rhythms of the city.
The free outdoor concerts continue this week, offering more chances to catch world-class talent without needing a ticket.
🎫 Big Names Hit the Stage
The festival’s first weekend kicked off with strong performances and vibrant crowds, setting the tone for a week packed with major talent. Tonight, the legendary Mavis Staples takes the stage at the Elgin Theatre, bringing her powerful voice and soul-stirring presence to downtown Toronto.
The rest of the week brings a strong ticketed lineup, including:
-
Arooj Aftab – June 24, 8:00 p.m., Koerner Hall
-
Makaya McCraven (with opener re.verse) – June 25, 8:00 p.m., The Mod Club (formerly The Axis Club)
-
Bill Frisell Trio – June 26, 7:00 & 9:30 p.m., Hugh’s Room Live (sold out)
Venues range from grand theatres like Massey Hall to cozy spots like The Rex Hotel and Jazz Bistro, offering jazz lovers a variety of unforgettable live experiences throughout the city.
🌆 Festival Atmosphere Alive Across the Core
Now in its 37th year, the Toronto Jazz Festival continues to evolve into a genre-crossing celebration of sound—from traditional jazz and blues to soul, Latin, Afrobeat, funk, and experimental grooves.
With over 100 live performances, the event spans multiple stages across the downtown core. Crowds are expected to grow as the festival moves into its second weekend.
🧭 How to Enjoy
-
Catch a free set: Walk through Yorkville Park any day this week from noon to night.
-
Need a ticket? Check TorontoJazz.com for the full schedule.
-
Transit tips: Closest TTC stops include Bay, Museum, and Bloor-Yonge.
-
Food & drink: Grab a snack from a local food truck or nearby patio during the shows.
📅 Festival Continues to June 29
As the week continues, the energy will build toward the final weekend, with performances by Ghost-Note, Mike Stern Band, Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, and others closing out the nine-day musical journey.
Whether you’re a jazz purist or a casual listener, Toronto Jazz Fest offers a weeklong soundtrack to summer in the city.
See you at the next set—under the sun or stars. 🎷
Follow GTA Weekly for more music coverage and family-friendly events across the city.
Leave a Reply