Toronto Launches ‘Summer at Old City Hall’ with Free Events Honouring Local Heritage
City launches free weekly programming at historic Old City Hall, inviting residents and visitors to explore Toronto’s heritage through exhibits, expert talks, and cultural events.
TORONTO — One of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks is opening its doors to the public this summer. The City of Toronto has officially launched Summer at Old City Hall, a vibrant series of free events celebrating the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Beginning Friday, July 11, programming will take place every Friday through August, with additional special weekend activities and civil wedding ceremonies offered on select Thursdays.
Old City Hall, which served as Toronto’s third city hall from 1899 to 1966, is being reimagined as a community hub following the relocation of provincial and municipal courts to the new Toronto courthouse earlier this year. The initiative is part of the city’s broader vision to preserve and activate historic spaces while making them accessible for civic life and engagement.
City of Toronto kicks off Summer at Old City Hall with free programming to showcase and celebrate local heritage
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— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) July 9, 2025
A Summer of Stories, Art, and Civic Engagement
Visitors can expect a diverse mix of heritage-inspired programming, including:
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Courtyard Open Days (Fridays) – Enjoy lunch or downtime in the beautifully restored courtyard, featuring heritage architecture and the famous 1899 clock tower gargoyles.
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Millennium City Photography Exhibit (Fridays) – Explore archival images from 2000 to 2010, capturing defining moments in Toronto’s municipal history.
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Toronto Treasures (July 26 & August 23) – Bring your personal treasures for expert guidance on preservation from museum curators. Advance registration required.
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Block by Block Exhibition – In partnership with the Toronto Ward Museum, this powerful oral history showcase highlights stories of Indigenous, newcomer, and equity-deserving residents.
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Toronto Civic Art Exhibit (July 26 & August 23) – Digital displays of artwork from the City’s permanent collection.
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Expert Talks with City Archivist Neil Brochu (Fridays at noon) – Discover the stories behind Old City Hall and Toronto’s evolving heritage.
All programming runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to the public.
Civil Wedding Ceremonies at Old City Hall
Starting Thursday, July 24, the City will host civil wedding ceremonies inside the historic former Council Chamber. These non-religious ceremonies will be officiated by City staff and are available by appointment only. Couples interested in tying the knot at one of Toronto’s most distinguished civic venues can inquire at marriage@toronto.ca.
A Message from the Mayor
“I’m proud to see the City is opening the doors to Old City Hall this summer, giving residents and visitors a chance to experience one of Toronto’s most cherished architectural landmarks while staff continue the important work of planning for its long-term future,” said Mayor Olivia Chow.
With over three million residents, Toronto continues to lead as one of the most diverse and livable cities in the world. Programming like Summer at Old City Hall invites people to connect with the city’s history while imagining its future.
For the full event schedule and more information, visit www.toronto.ca/OldCityHall.
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