4. Beaches Jazz Festival

The Buzz -- The Beaches Jazz Festival comprises several events over the course of a week. The first is Parti Gras, held Friday-Sunday in the Historic Distillery District – expect a festive, carnival atmosphere and entertainment of all sorts. The Ovation of Jazz at the Balmy Beach Club is a midweek ticketed event (proceeds go to charity) that includes food from the best chefs in town, a silent auction and live music. The next Thursday-Saturday, it's time for StreetFest, centered on Queen Street East. The big draw here is the variety of performers and venues – blues to classic jazz to swing, in spaces as varied as restaurants, taverns and even a church – all in a street party atmosphere, and all free! On Saturday and Sunday, head over to the MainStage at Kew Gardens where you'll see most of the big-name performers.