Have you heard?
Vaughan’s downtown core is the place to be this summer. The Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) is home to countless places to discover, from decadent restaurants and exciting local attractions, to seasonal festivals, concerts and art exhibits!
There are plenty of reasons to spend the day – or stay longer – and explore endless fun at the VMC. Take advantage of direct subway access to and from surrounding areas and add some unique excitement to your summer bucket list. Here is everything you have got to see at the VMC this summer.
SUMMER BUCKET LIST ESSENTIALS:
Wednesday, June 12 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The City’s Vaughan Celebrates Concerts in the Park series presented by TD and event sponsor Tim Hortons is back for its 30th year! This free event series takes place throughout the summer starting on Wednesday, June 12, with the launch concert – Taylor’s Story – Tribute to Taylor Swift. Swifties – be among the first in line to grab a free friendship bracelet and get into your concert era! Don’t miss this performance from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., weather permitting, at Transit Square (100 New Park Place). The location is equipped with accessible parking, pathways and washrooms. Find additional details, including other Concerts in the Park events, at vaughan.ca/concerts.
FAIRGROUNDS PUBLIC RACKET CLUB
Are you looking for a fun way to get your body moving in 2024? You’re in luck! The all-new Fairgrounds Public Racket Club courts are now open in Assembly Park (80 Interchange Way). Fairgrounds is a new kind of racket club that plays fair. It’s a free-to-join, pay-to-play club that is sure to make the world’s fastest-growing sports your new favourite! The courts are a mix of pickle and padel – both easy to pick up and social by nature. Add trying a new sport or perfecting an old hobby to your 2024 summer bucket list at Fairgrounds!
VAUGHAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SCREENINGS
- Monday, June 17 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Tuesday, June 18 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Wednesday, June 19 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
If you have a passion for film, you won’t want to miss the Vaughan International Film Festival (VFF) screenings happening at The Studios at Assembly Park (80 Interchange Way). Not only is VFF invested in securing the future of the short film industry, supporting both experienced and aspiring filmmakers, it hosts several fun-filled events that should definitely make it onto your summer in Vaughan bucket list.
THE CREATIVE MIND ART EXHIBITION
Saturday, July 6 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The Creative Mind is back at the VMC for its consecutive year! It’s a night of art and creativity, and an opportunity for artists and creators of all kinds to share, connect and inspire through their work. The exhibit’s mission is to provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents and courageously share their work alongside others. For a unique and expressive night out, you’ll want to check out this exhibition in the heart of Vaughan at the Studios at Assembly Park (80 Interchange Way).
Saturday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Looking to travel back in time this summer? You won’t want to miss Vaughan Con, a pop culture convention aimed at bringing the hobby together. With cards, comics, vintage, cosplay and more, you’ll experience all the nostalgia browsing through collectors’ items and interacting with like-minded people, all while enjoying family-friendly activities. Hosted just outside the VMC at Bellvue Manor (8083 Jane St.), check out Vaughan Con for some of the rarest finds, including Pokémon Cards, FUNKO Pops and so much more!
GRAB A BITE:
Whether you’re planning a day trip, multi-day getaway or checking out any of the summertime events happening at the VMC, complete your trip by grabbing a bite at one of the numerous top-rated restaurants in the area. From upscale, Italian modern dining like Buca Vaughan (898 Portage Pkwy.), to family-friendly options like St. Louis Bar and Grill (90 Edgeley Blvd., Unit 106), to a place where you can grab specialty cocktails like Smoke and Mirrors Gastropub (2780 Hwy 7), the options are endless. Or, check out our list of dining options for more nearby restaurants and eateries situated only a short distance away, and find something to please every palate.
SEE THE SIGHTS:
Your summer bucket list shouldn’t end with just music and movies! You can shop ‘til you drop at outlet malls and unique boutiques, or get your thrill seeker on at the many amazing attractions around the city. No matter what you’re looking for – coasters, reptiles or arcades – you’ll find something for everyone in Vaughan!
STAY THE NIGHT:
Maximize the excitement! Vaughan is a great day trip destination, but it’s an even better weekend getaway. With so much fun in store and so many places to explore, 24 hours simply isn’t enough. Here are six welcoming accommodations within two kilometres of the VMC:
- Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Vaughan
- Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Vaughan
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Toronto Vaughan
- Monte Carlo Inn – Vaughan Suites
- Residence Inn by Marriott Toronto/Vaughan
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Toronto Vaughan
Or, check out our accommodations directory for a full list of all the great places to rest and recharge in Vaughan!
