Returning to The Bentway on Aug. 15, the one-day event was founded by the creative minds at Community Wines and Standard Time as an independent festival bringing together live music, DJs, food, wine and local businesses in one place.
“Between Community Wines and Standard Time, we share the same love for Toronto, its music community and its creative culture,” says Blake Pearson of Community Wines. “We felt there was a real gap for a larger outdoor music festival, and that’s where On the Way Festival was born.”
This year’s lineup features internationally acclaimed artists including The Dare, Ross From Friends, Patrick Holland, Doss and Young Teesh, along with DJ sets from members of Toronto jazz collective BADBADNOTGOOD.
The festival also shines a light on some of the city’s favourite food and drink destinations with offerings from Matty’s Patties, Ruru Baked, Rizzo’s, Rooms Coffee, Barbet and Community Wines, creating an experience that extends beyond the music.
And, Pearson says the location at the Bentway offers that perfect Toronto vibe.
“The Bentway is one of the most unique outdoor spaces in Toronto,” he explains. “It’s an old industrial space that’s been reclaimed by the community, with this incredible mix of concrete, steel and the Gardiner Expressway overhead. It’s right in the heart of the city, but it feels unlike anywhere else.”
Rather than simply booking artists, the organizers wanted to create the kind of festival they felt Toronto was missing—one that reflects the city’s independent creative community.
“We’re building something that’s rooted in Toronto,” he adds. “It’s not about flying in a few big names and surrounding them with corporate activations. It’s about showcasing local talent alongside international artists and creating something that feels authentic to the city.”
The idea grew from a belief that Toronto deserves more festivals highlighting our own culture instead of relying solely on large corporate events or neighbourhood celebrations. It’s something that happens in other large cities like New York and Montreal, and they want more of it here.
“Toronto has so many incredible artists, clubs and collectives, but compared to cities like New York, Berlin or even Montreal, we felt there was a gap in the outdoor festival landscape,” Pearson says. “We wanted to help bring that kind of experience to Toronto.”
On the Way Festival wants to offer an experience that feels distinctly Toronto. One that leaves attendees with a feeling of pride not just a good time.
“I hope people leave feeling proud of Toronto. I think the city is rediscovering its confidence, and I want people to see the incredible restaurants, artists, beverage makers, designers and creative people who make this city special,” Pearson says. “If people leave feeling more connected to Toronto, that’s a success.”
