All the evidence points to one thing – that summer in the city has arrived. Days have been spent in parks and on patios, my glaringly pale legs have made more than their fair (pun intended) share of embarrassing public appearances, and outdoor music festival season is in full swing. The thrill of seeing music live is one of my greatest joys, but the thrill of seeing it at a well-organized and well-attended outdoor festival? That’s a whole other ball game. It’s my jam. I love it and look forward to it all year long. This week my ears are going to be treated to a handful of outdoor performances by some of my all time favourite artists c/o the Endless Summer Tour and Arts & Crafts’ Field Trip.

Endless Summer Tour

When I found out Lana Del Rey was coming to Toronto, and that I had missed out on getting tickets, I was quite disappointed. But then – to add insult to injury – it was announced that my number one favourite artist was going to be opening for her – GRIMES! Luckily, I was able to get my hands on a ticket (Thank God for StubHub!), and tonight, I am going to get to dance in a witchy-manner, surely freaking out all those near me, all the while maintaining a pure state of sheer bliss. I am past excited, and on a whole new level of giddy.

Field Trip

Following tonight’s musical euphoria, I get to enjoy a full weekend of amazing live music in the glorious out of doors all thanks to Arts & Crafts Field Trip! The artists I’m most familiar with and whom originally provided incentive to get tickets are Father John Misty and Purity Ring. I am deeply in love with FJM, and having already seen him live this year, I know exactly what to look forward to (him. in all his glory. dancing. and singing. and being sassy. and making me swoon). I’m most excited though to check out the bands I’m less familiar with, but have heard great things about: Alabama Shakes, Temples, Lee Fields & The Expressions, Jacques Greene, The War On Drugs…among many others!

Stay tuned: on friday we’re talking THIS WEEK’s festival style inspiration!

Header Image via Alexander McQueen Spring 1999