After a prolonged absence, one of Toronto's most beloved culinary events is making a triumphant comeback. Mayor Olivia Chow has officially announced the return of the Taste of the Danforth festival, a staple in the city's food scene that has faced significant disruptions in recent years.
Mayor's Enthusiastic Announcement
During a press conference focused on property tax relief for small businesses, Mayor Chow expressed her excitement about the festival's revival. "We couldn't be more excited that Tony (Pethakas) and the Greektown businesses are planning to bring back Taste of Danforth!" she declared. Chow highlighted the event's scale, noting it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Danforth for food and entertainment.
However, the mayor's office clarified that while City Hall supports the event, the festival is organized by the Greektown on the Danforth Business Improvement Area (BIA), not the municipal government. Tony Pethakas, chairman of the BIA board, has not yet commented on the plans, and neither has Toronto-Danforth Councillor Paula Fletcher.
Historical Context and Challenges
The Taste of the Danforth has been a Toronto tradition since 1994, celebrated in North America's largest Greektown. Typically held in August, the festival features Greek street food, various vendors, and live performances along a traffic-free stretch of the Danforth.
Despite its popularity, the event has been held only once since 2019, in 2023. It was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and failed to materialize in 2024 and 2025. This extended hiatus has left many residents and officials eager for its return.
Provincial Support and Funding
Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently voiced his nostalgia for the festival, recalling past attendance when it drew massive crowds. "I remember going down there and it was, like, packed, probably half a million people," said Ford, who represents Etobicoke North. He pledged provincial funding for the event if Mayor Chow commits municipal resources, signaling a collaborative effort to revive this cultural highlight.
The festival's return is seen as a boost for local businesses and tourism, with Destination Toronto emphasizing its historical significance. As plans develop, Torontonians can look forward to once again savoring the flavors and festivities that define the Taste of the Danforth.
