Toronto buzzes with action during summer; indeed, summer is the ideal time to savour the city. That’s why this season brings in major touring artists, along with local talent and music festivals, to the delight of the young and old alike. Many of these concerts are held outdoors, allowing you to enjoy the warm weather whether you are at a waterfront venue, a city park, or an open-air stadium.
With the summer season in full swing, here are a few concerts that should be on your bucket list.
Olivia Dean with Baby Rose
Scotiabank Arena, August 4-5
The English singer-songwriter is known for blending soul, R&B, jazz and pop. Her debut album, Messy, in 2023, received widespread acclaim and was nominated for the Mercury Prize. In recent years, her profile has grown with her second album, The Art of Loving (2025), which topped the UK Albums Chart, making her one of the UK’s most prominent contemporary soul pop artists. This is Olivia Dean’s first show at the Scotiabank Arena, in which she will collaborate with American Singer-songwriter Baby Rose.
Big Thief with Ben Lamar Gay
Meridian Hall, August 6
This American indie folk/indie rock band was established in Brooklyn, New York, in 2015. Known for their intimate songwriting and emotionally direct lyrics, they blend folk, rock, country, and experimental influences in most of their songs. In this concert, the band is collaborating with American composer and singer Ben Lamar Gay, who is known for blending a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, hip hop, R&B, Folk, and Blues. Rather than fitting neatly into one genre, his music is often described as “Pan Americana.”
Ed Sheeran
Rogers Centre Aug 20-22
The English singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer is considered one of the most successful pop artists since 2010. He is known for blending folk, pop, acoustic, and R&B influences and is especially recognized for his heartfelt songwriting and loop-pedal live performances. Among his most notable achievements is writing songs for other artists, including Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, BTS, and others. He has won several awards for his music and songwriting, including the Grammy Awards, the Brit Awards, and many others. This is the British megastar’s first Toronto concert in three years.
BTS
Rogers Stadium Aug 22, 23
The South Korean band known as the Bangtan Boys was established in 2013, and fame quickly followed after some of their notable hits reached international music charts. Some of their biggest songs include Dynamite, Fake Love, Butter, and DNA. One of the most distinctive things about BTS is that they are known for writing and producing much of their own music. This is considered the first international tour for the pop stars after they were forced to complete mandatory military service. Their August performance at the Rogers Stadium will also include two dance-fuelled shows to the delight of the crowds.
Guns N’ Roses
Rogers Stadium August 5
The American hard rock band formed in LA in 1985 became known as one of the biggest rock acts of the 90s. They are known for their loud, blues-influenced sound, rebellious punk-rock image, and energetic, loud performances. Their music has left an indelible mark on the punk -rock scene, especially with hit songs like Sweet Child O’ Mine and Paradise City. Guns N’ Roses are widely considered to be one of the defining bands of the 20th century. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.
David Messiha | Staff Writer
