Taste of the Junction returns with Diana Ross tribute in Toronto

An annual art and food festival is adding a tech twist to its lineup next month at The Junction in Toronto.

Taste of the Junction is set to return on Sept. 7, bringing together 21 local businesses to celebrate food, art and culture.

Organized by The Junction Business Improvement Area in partnership with Stu Sells Realty, the second annual event will be held at a new location near Jackson Place at 51 Vine Ave.

Building on its history as the original commercial strip for the West Toronto railway connection, The Junction serves as a vital resource and hub for the area’s diverse businesses.

Interestingly, the Junction has also earned recognition as one of the “hip communities” by the New York Times and one of the 50 “coolest neighbourhoods” in the world by Time Out.

This year’s event will feature the launch of The AR Laneway Project, highlighted by the unveiling of “Rhapsody in Gold,” an animated mural honouring Diana Ross, located at 2896 Dundas St W.

Created by Toronto artist Daniel Mazzone and animated by South African artist Benjamin Mitchley, the mural comes to life through the free Artivive app, offering a unique experience.

The laneway will also showcase five other murals that merge traditional art with technology.

The event is also supported by the City of Toronto’s Main Street Innovation Fund and the Federal Economic Development Agency for southern Ontario, and is designed to highlight The Junction’s distinct character and dynamic atmosphere.

Carol Jolly, Executive Director of The Junction BIA, expressed her excitement for the event’s return, highlighting how it gives locals and visitors a chance to explore the neighbourhood’s unique offerings while supporting the local businesses that make the area special.

Beginning at noon and running until 9 p.m., the event will include vendors such as Bevi Birra, Chiang Mai Junction, Dirty Food Eatery and Indie Alehouse.