Music festivals coming to Toronto in 2025 are shaping up to be something interesting, and I couldn't resist putting together a list of the ones that have already dropped their dates.

Whether you're a bass-drop devotee or an indie enthusiast, these music festivals in Toronto are something to take note of with the new year approaching.

Departure Festival

What was formerly known as Canadian Music Week (CMW) isn't just a festival; it's an institution. For over 40 years, it's been the launchpad for emerging artists (insert Canadian icons Feist and Metric). While not officially announced yet, the 2025 edition promises another eclectic lineup, mixing local talent with international acts. Pro tip: catch a show at The Drake Underground—it's tiny, it's sweaty, and it's perfect.

It takes place from May 6 to 11, 2025.

North by Northeast (NXNE)

Known for its grit and DIY ethos, NXNE has helped bands like Broken Social Scene find their footing. This year's buzz is all about indie-rockers and some surprise headliners. (My prediction: they'll be a band you've "totally been into forever" but discovered on TikTok last week.)

NXNE returns on June 11 to 15, 2025

Toronto Jazz Festival

Running since 1987, this festival has hosted jazz heavyweights like Herbie Hancock and Diana Krall in the past, and even a surpirse headliner by rap/flute genius Andre 3000. The 2025 lineup so includes Ludeji Luna and the Ostara Project, so grab a cocktail and pretend you're way cooler than you actually are while listening to the smooth sounds of jazz.

This music festival takes place on June 20 to 29, 2025.

Beaches Jazz Festival

One of Toronto's most beloved free festivals, this event turns Queen Street East into a music paradise every July. Past highlights include soul-stirring acts like Maceo Parker and Jay Douglas. A small tip: bring a picnic blanket and just soak it all in from afar.

It returns July 4 to 26, 2025.

So whether you're dancing under harsh lasers or vibing with friends on a picnic blanket, Toronto's 2025 festival lineup has a little something for everyone. 

Veld Music Festival

Veld is the spot if you like your beats loud and your stage a lighting spectacle. Since its launch in 2012, this festival has hosted legends like Martin Garrix, Marshmello, and Zeds Dead. This year, brace yourselves for Tiësto, deadmau5 (the hometown hero), Dom Dolla, and John Summit. Veld is basically Toronto's answer to Tomorrowland.

It takes place on August 1 to 3, 2025, at Downsview Park.