Arts in the Parks 2025 Brings Free Cultural Events to 28 Toronto Parks
TORONTO — Another season of Arts in the Parks has wrapped up, with the Toronto Arts Foundation announcing the program’s continued success in delivering free, family-friendly arts and cultural programming across the city.
Launched in 2016, Arts in the Parks has become a summer staple in Toronto, transforming local parks into vibrant stages, galleries, and gathering spaces. This year, nearly 200 events were held across 28 parks, from Etobicoke to Scarborough, North York to the downtown core.
By the end of October, the program is projected to reach 800,000 attendees since its inception, underscoring its impact in making the arts accessible to all communities.
Expanding Access to the Arts
Arts in the Parks was created to focus on parks outside Toronto’s downtown core, where public arts programming is often less available. By situating events in local neighbourhoods, the program connects people where they live and ensures equitable access to cultural experiences.
Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO of Toronto Arts, highlighted the importance of accessibility:
“Everyone should have access to the arts, regardless of who they are, where they live, or what their income is. That’s why we’re so proud that this program brings neighbours together across the six boroughs by getting them outdoors to take part in meaningful — and accessible — cultural experiences where they live.”
This season, the initiative also engaged and paid more than 900 artists across theatre, music, dance, film, and visual arts.
Building Community Through the Arts
Organizers emphasized the role Arts in the Parks plays in fostering community and well-being. At a time when many face social isolation, free outdoor arts experiences offer opportunities to connect, belong, and engage with neighbours.
Recent public opinion research in Ontario has reinforced this link, showing that residents widely believe the arts contribute to mental health, quality of life, and stronger communities.
Highlights of the 2025 Season
Programming ranged from theatre and dance to music festivals and visual art installations. Some highlights included:
-
Rosyland: Park Performances & DIY Melodies at Lee Lifeson Art Park, a participatory music experience celebrating sustainability, friendship, and community.
-
Roller Skate Parties under The Bentway, featuring DJs, group skate demos, theme nights, and the Toronto Queer Market.
-
Common Ground Dance Festival (September 18–20), produced by TOES FOR DANCE, with free performances, workshops, and intercultural collaborations.
A Collaborative Effort
Arts in the Parks is led by the Toronto Arts Foundation in partnership with the Toronto Arts Council, the City of Toronto, and Park People.
The program is supported in part by The Mayor’s Evening for the Arts, the Foundation’s signature annual fundraiser.
Since its launch, Arts in the Parks has become a city-building initiative, providing equitable cultural experiences while supporting Toronto’s diverse arts ecosystem.
For more details on upcoming events and the Arts in the Parks program, visit: torontoartsfoundation.org.
Follow GTA Today on social media for more local news and updates. #GTAToday
