Category: Summer

Need to Save on Gas? Try These Getaways Close to Toronto

Elora, ON | Getaway Close to Toronto, ON
“Elora, Ontario” by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

If you’re hoping to save some money on gas while still enjoying your summer, we’ve got you covered. Check out these exciting local getaways that aren’t too far from downtown Toronto!

Elora

This adorable town is great for city dwellers and outdoor enthusiasts. The historic Metcalfe Street hosts a variety of funs shops while the Elora Gorge is ready for exploration. Wind down at night by sitting on a restaurant or spa patio that overlooks the Grand River.

Muskoka

If you’re trying to get away from all of the bustling city sounds, head to Muskoka. Here, you’ll find a serene area with tall trees, beautiful parks, and plenty of places to hike or camp. Some creature comforts are still nearby, though, like the local bakery and a performance venue with incredible musical acts.

Stratford

Speaking of entertainment, you’ll want to visit Stratford for a ton of culture. This town is home to many theater productions and even hosts its annual Stratford Festival. You’ll find all kinds of luxury here as well, like bed and breakfast spots and top chefs.

Where are you headed for your summer getaway? Let us know the next time you see us at Downtown Toyota in Toronto!

Celebrate Toronto at These Summer Festivals

Summer Festivals | Toronto, ON

Toronto is home to many exciting festivals and events throughout the year — and summer is especially packed with great options. If you’re looking for inspiration for your upcoming plans, check out our top Toronto summer festivals.

Toronto Caribbean Carnival

The best part about the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is that is spans almost the whole month of July, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festivities. From July 7-30, you can experience a variety of engaging events and food from Guyanan, Bermudan, Dominican, Haitian, Trinidadian, and Jamaican cultures. This includes a handful of parties, a couple of parades, delicious food, and lively music.

Salsa in Toronto Festival

An event that packs itself into just two days, the Salsa in Toronto festival, takes place July 9-10 in Midtown. This event celebrates Latin culture in Canada and includes amazing authentic food selections, dance lessons, art exhibitions, film screenings, musical performances, and a parade.

Toronto Jazz Festival

If you solely want to focus on music, consider visiting the Toronto Jazz Festival from June 24 to July 3. This event brings together local and international superstars of the jazz world right in the heart of the city! This year’s special guests include Smokey Robinson, Gregory Porter, and Michael Kaeshammer.

Our team at Downtown Toyota is excited for summer. If your vehicle needs any repairs or maintenance to get you to these exciting festivals, simply contact us or stop by and see us.

Stay Safe All Summer with These Road Trip Safety Tips

Stay Safe All Summer with These Road Trip Safety Tips | Toronto, ON

Summer has brought some beautiful weather to Canada, which makes it the perfect time for you to explore what our great country has to offer. That means one thing — it’s time for a road trip. As you head out on the open road, keep these summer road trip safety tips from Downtown Toyota in mind.

Be aware of wildlife. Animals are very active during the summer, which is why you need to keep an eye out for them as you drive. They are especially active at dawn and dusk, so watch out for flickering road reflectors, which can indicate animals moving, and make sure you continually check both sides of the road for critters.

Don’t let yourself get bored or fatigued. Drivers who get bored or tired are more likely to let their attention drift, which isn’t safe. That’s why you should take measures to stay entertained — and awake — during your long drives. Download podcasts or audio books to keep you alert on the go, and make sure you take frequent stops to keep fatigue at bay.  

Understand the road conditions and terrain. Even though it’s summer, you will still experience rain storms and inclement weather throughout Canada. Remember to drive for the road conditions you’re experiencing, lengthening the distance between you and the car in front of you on slick roads. Also, keep in mind that the terrain you’re driving on should influence the way you drive.

Are you ready for your summer road trip but your vehicle is not? Stop by Downtown Toyota for a service checkup before you hit the road!

Don’t Miss These Toronto Summer Festivals

2020 Toyota Sienna | Downtown Toyota | Toronto, ON

Spring is here and the weather is warming up. If you’re looking for things to do in the summertime, we have you covered! We’ve gathered a couple of ideas for Toronto summer festivals you should put on your calendar this year.

NXNE: North by Northeast

Music and technology come together in the North by Northeast (NXNE) festival. This festival stretches over 10 days from June 7 to June 16 and takes place all across Toronto. The schedule includes a three-day music festival in the heart of the city. This festival mostly focuses on introducing emerging musicians to the masses, though it also looks to incorporate music, gaming, comedy, and interactivity to highlight both technology and the arts.

Fan Expo Canada

From August 22 to August 25 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, you can get in touch with your nerdy side thanks to Fan Expo Canada. This four-day event will give you the opportunity to learn more about your favorite sci-fi, fantasy, comic, and anime worlds. You’ll even get the chance to meet celebrity guests. This year’s lineup will feature big stars like Jeff Goldblum, Zachary Levi, Jason Momoa, and David Harbour.

If you need a new ride for the summer, view our new inventory today at Downtown Toyota in Toronto, Ontario.