The City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario have jointly announced a $400,000 contribution to revive the Taste of the Danforth festival in Greektown this summer. The iconic event will take place from August 7 to 9, 2026, marking its first occurrence since 2023 and only the second time since 2019.
City and Province Join Forces
Mayor Olivia Chow confirmed the festival's return earlier this year in February. In a statement released by the city on Thursday, she emphasized the festival's role as a cherished summer tradition that celebrates Greek culture, supports local businesses, and highlights Toronto's diversity. The city is proud to partner with the province to bring back this iconic event and welcome residents and visitors to the Danforth in August.
Premier Doug Ford also expressed his enthusiasm, noting that he missed the festival and pledged provincial funding contingent on the city's commitment. Ford described Taste of the Danforth as an iconic street festival that attracts visitors from across the city and beyond, generating over $100 million in economic impact. His statement was issued by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming on Thursday.
Safety Concerns Addressed
The announcement comes shortly after Toronto's Do West Fest, which faced criticism over crowding, violence, and petty crime. That event is similar in concept, featuring vendors along a stretch of Dundas Street West closed to traffic. The Toronto Sun has inquired with city hall and the Toronto Police Service about potential safety concerns for Taste of the Danforth, but has not yet received a response.
Funding and Economic Impact
Taste of the Danforth is one of 400 festivals across Ontario receiving a share of $20 million in funding through the Experience Ontario program. The Sun has also asked whether other Toronto events are benefiting from the program, but the province has not yet responded. Organized by the Greektown on the Danforth BIA, the festival has been a staple in Toronto's east end since 1993.
