As the gorgeous days of summer tick past, one of the best ways to spend these fleeting sunny moments is to get outside and enjoy the best of Toronto's art scene.
Returning to the city's historic arts quarter for its fifth year, Yorkville Murals is giving you the chance to do just that — and for free.
This local-fave arts event takes place on August 26 and 27 with the theme: "No Empty Spaces." And one peek at the program shows you they mean it.
All along Yorkville Avenue, between Bellair Street and Hazelton Avenue, you can experience immersive exhibits, inflatable sculptures, murals, art activities, pop-up stores and more.
Inflatable eyes at Yorkville Murals.Courtesy of Yorkville Murals
Whether you want to take the whole family or get some time with your BFFs, one thing's for sure — you're going to want to catch this exciting self-guided art extravaganza in person.
Plus, on August 26, Yorkville Murals is hosting its legendary Block Party. Tickets will go fast, so grab yours to go to the most creative summer shindig of the year.
Need more convincing? Here's a taste of what you can expect to find at Yorkville Murals 2023.
See how worlds collide with artist Ness Lee
When: All day
Address: The Anndore House, 15 Charles St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Adorning The Anndore House's west facade is a mural by Ness Lee, whose striking graphic works explore the nature of human connection.
Lee's iconic white figures with their mesmerizing black tresses will take a new and thought-provoking form in an artwork for Yorkville Murals that you have to see for yourself.
Take a trip to France with Victoria Sequeira
When: All day
Address: The Four Seasons Hotel, 60 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Inspired by the charm and tranquillity of the South of France, It's Nice In Nice is a wraparound mural that you can spot on this Yorkville Ave. corner of The Four Seasons Hotel.
Created by Victoria Sequeira, the mural celebrates the romance and entrancing atmosphere of the idyllic Côte d’Azur that promises the perfect escape from the daily grind.
Tumble into a mystical garden created by Julia Monson
When: 10 a.m.–8 p.m., August 26-27, 2023
Address: Food-court hallway of the Manulife Centre, 55 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Living up to the theme of "No Empty Spaces," artist Julia Monson has transformed a 37-metre-long stretch of unused corridor into an immersive artwork you have to see to believe.
Using vinyl illustrations and handmade snake carpets, Monson's Yorkville Murals installation is a mesmerizing oasis of colour and creativity.
Mix & mingle at the Yorkville Murals Block Party
When: 5-10 p.m., Saturday, August 26, 2023
Address: Cumberland Parkade (Yorkville Ave. entrance), 144 Cumberland St., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Anyone who has thrown an awesome party knows that it is indeed an art form. For a perfectly curated night out, you can't miss the Yorkville MuralsBlock Party.
Taking over Cumberland Parkade, this open-air event features artworks by Ben Johnston, Jorden and David Doody, Sage Barnes and live painting sessions by JARUS, Paul Jackson and Mony Zhakour. Plus, live DJs, food and drink because it's a party after all!
Grab your tickets in advance — this one's sure to be busy.
Get up close to artists as they paint live on Yorkville Avenue
Address: Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON
When: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., August 26-27, 2023
Why You Need To Go: Yorkville Murals isn't just about showing artwork, it's also a celebration of the creative process. You can celebrate too at the free Live Painting areas.
At one, you'll get to draw cute tattoos on characters designed by Montreal-based artist Dalkhafine. In the second space, you'll see Brazilian artist Elvis Mourao paint a collection of funny monsters right before your eyes.
While you're in the area, be sure to peruse the nearby pop-ups for merch and freebies or let loose with beats from local DJs and break dancers.
Immerse yourself in the Yorkville Murals Courtyard
Address: 99 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON
When: View from the street 24 hours a day
Why You Need To Go: This intimate section of the festival is perfect for truly soaking up Toronto's creative side. Featuring works by Matt Gondek, Mikael B., Shelby and Sandy, Jason Botkin, Ola Volo, Whatisadam, and Mateo, the Yorkville Murals Courtyard is a must-see.
Play a round on the coolest mini-golf course ever
Address: Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON
When: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., August 26-27, 2023
Why You Need To Go: In the spirit of "No Empty Spaces," this one-of-a-kind mini-golf course is also a work of art, created in collaboration with Berlin-based artist Kirsten McCrea.
Stop in for a quick game of putt-putt and pick up a complimentary sip of Perrier at this interactive spot and, if you're still feeling a bit competitive, try the life-size chess and tic-tac-toe nearby.
Visitors at Yorkville Murals.Courtesy of Yorkville Murals
With all of this fabulous creativity and fun in one spot, a trip to Yorkville Murals is the perfect way to round out your summer.
This is just the start of what you'll find this year too. To get the whole experience, be sure to stop by the pop-ups to peruse merch, beauty treatments, creative jewelry and artsy sustainable products.
This free festival is only on August 26-27 though, so make sure to mark your calendar and get ready to be inspired.
To learn more about Yorkville Murals, visit their website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Toronto's Epic Mural Fest Is Back & Here Are 7 Works Of Art You Have To See In Person
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