#1 Sports Event
Toronto hosts the best in men’s tennis this year, and Tennis Canada has a patriotic plan to get fans excited for matches with Canadian players. An improved retail area will draw shoppers, and art lovers will enjoy the theme: the Art of Tennis. Next: August 2-10, 2014
#2 Sports Event
New this year at the province’s largest event by spectator numbers, the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge will see Porsche 911s take over the track for a special series. Also at the Honda-sponsored event: IndyCar races, military flyovers, and a craft beer fest. Next: July 18-20, 2014
#3 Sports Event (new to the list)
Sold-out crowds packed the Rogers Centre for three games during the 2014 Home Opening Series. Everyone received rally towels to cheer and wave with, and one lucky fan won a new car courtesy of Honda. Next: April 2015
#4 Sports Event
The “Kentucky Derby of the North” awards the richest purse in Canada: $1 million in total, $600,000 for the winner. For those less interested in watching the horse races, there’s the annual Hats & Horseshoes party with a red carpet and gourmet fare. Next: July 6, 2014
#5 Sports Event
Described as “flat, fast, and festive,” the Scotiabank-sponsored race holds the record for the fastest marathon on Canadian soil. In 2013, more than 25,000 runners from more than 60 countries participated. Next: October 19, 2014
#6 Sports Event (up from #7)
Past and present hockey greats don formal wear and mingle with guests at the Hockey Hall of Fame after the annual induction ceremony. The weekend includes a Leafs game and a Legends game, the latter played by celebrated old-timers. Next: November 10, 2014
#7 Sports Event (up from #8)
The 2014 festival is poised to be bigger than ever with more than 6,000 athletes, a new kids’ zone, and a main stage with music and entertainment. Tim Hortons has confirmed title sponsorship for the next two years. Next: June 21-22, 2014
#8 Sports Event (new to the list)
Billed as the largest and oldest marathon in Toronto—with participants from more than 50 countries—the race raises funds for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation and contributed more than $15 million to the city’s economy in 2013. Goodlife Fitness is the title sponsor. Next: May 2015
