Toronto Launches Youth Week with Over 30 Free Events Citywide

April 30, 2025 Tiana Squire 0 Comments 2 min read

Poetry, Dance, and Entrepreneurship Take Centre Stage May 1–7

TORONTO — The City of Toronto is kicking off its annual Youth Week celebration with more than 30 free events planned across the city from Thursday, May 1 to Wednesday, May 7, spotlighting the creativity, innovation, and leadership of young people from every corner of Toronto.

Mayor Olivia Chow officially proclaimed the week in honour of the city’s youth, stating:

“Young people are our future – they are driven, passionate and bring energy to every room.”

From poetry slams and dance competitions to fashion, food, and business workshops, the diverse lineup of events reflects the vibrancy and resilience of Toronto’s next generation.

City of Toronto celebrates Youth Week with more than 30 events across the city

News Release: https://t.co/HY39tDyaKB pic.twitter.com/bclVQwv0dG

— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) April 30, 2025

One of the marquee events is the “Say It Loud! Youth Poetry Slam” on Friday, May 2 at the Toronto Reference Library, hosted by Toronto’s Youth Poet Laureate Shahaddah Jack. The two-round spoken word competition will give voice to young poets tackling timely social themes through performance.

Other key highlights include:

ResilientTOgether (May 1–4): A visual and performing arts showcase at 918 Bathurst Centre, celebrating youth artistic expression.
Youth Hub Programming (May 1–8): City-run youth spaces offer free workshops in wellness, cooking, fashion, dance, and sports.
Branded Youth Entrepreneurship Conference (May 2): Focused on Black, newcomer, and vulnerable youth, this conference features networking, mentorship, and business consultation.
STOMP Urban Dance Competition (May 3): The popular annual showdown returns to Meridian Hall, marking its 22nd edition with $5 tickets for the public.