Toronto, Canada’s premier city for culture and the performing arts, is popular with tourists from around the world. It has a cosmopolitan, multicultural population and a visibly active LGBT community. Its theaters, parks, museums, shopping centers and diverse nightlife offer visitors a plethora of activities and entertainment. Read on for suggestions of fun and interesting things to do on your gay holiday to Toronto.
Hang out in the Village
The Church Wellesley Village is Toronto’s major LGBT neighborhood. It’s the ideal place to go for socialising and people-watching. The village is known worldwide for its shops, bars, restaurants and public events run by and for the local gay community. The Buddies in Bad Times Theater on Alexander Street is dedicated to the promotion of Queer Culture.
Explore the World of ‘Queer as Folk’
The popular television series set in Pittsburgh was largely filmed in Toronto. ‘Queer as Folk’ fans will recognise many familiar scenes as they walk around the Church Wellesley Village. The tattoo parlor where Justin got his nipple piercing, the gym where the characters worked out, and the comic book store where Michael added to his Captain Astro collection are all to be found on Yonge Street. Church Street is home to Brian’s loft
Celebrate Gay Pride
The last week of June is Pride Week in Toronto with a full schedule of exciting events. The street festival runs over three days with eight stages of entertainment to choose from. The street fair features shopping, community booths and food stalls. Join the cheering crowd at the world famous Pride Parade, the Dyke march and the Trans March.
Show off Your Beach Body
Naturists and other uninhibited people flock to Hanlan’s Point Beach to sunbathe, swim, play volleyball and enjoy the scenery. The public, clothing-optional beach is just a ten-minute ferry trip from Queen’s Quay.
Immerse Yourself in a Broadway Musical
Toronto is known as a major center for the performing arts. Its theater scene is the second largest in North America, with seven venues devoted to Broadway musicals and a host of others featuring a diverse range of performances. Look out for discounted day-of-show tickets.
Get Married
The first fully legal gay marriage was held in Toronto in 2003. There are no citizenship or residency requirements when applying for a wedding licence in Ontario, so gay and lesbian couples from all over the world come there to get married. The Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto is a sought-after gay weddings venue.