COUNTDOWN TO SUMMER: EMBRACE THE EXCITEMENT AT YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE!
As the last traces of winter memories melt away and the promise of sunshine beckons, it's time to turn our gaze towards the eagerly anticipated season of summer. And what better way to welcome the sun-kissed days and balmy nights ahead than by embarking on a thrilling countdown to summer at Yonge-Dundas Square?
Nestled in the heart of downtown Toronto, Yonge-Dundas Square (soon to be Sankofa Square) is a place of excitement and community spirit amidst the bustling urban landscape. With its energy, diverse cultural offerings, and dynamic events, it's no wonder that the Square has become the quintessential gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Join us on a journey as we countdown to summer, each instalment full of excitement for the many events and activities that await. From cultural celebrations to live music performances sporting showdowns to artistic showcases, there's something for everyone to look forward to at the Square.
So, dust off your sunglasses, pack your sunscreen, message your friends, and get ready to create lasting memories as you immerse yourself in the summer of fun. Let the countdown begin!
10: Revisit the Magic of Past Events
As the seasons transition from the warm embrace of summer to the flurry of holiday activities, let's reminisce about some of the vibrant and unforgettable events that graced the Square. From cultural celebrations to sports showdowns, the heart of our city was alive with excitement. Read the full blog post of our 2023 Summer Recap here.
09: Upcoming Summer Events At The Square (Part 1)
Buddha Jayanti - Saturday, May 25, 2024 | 11 AM to 3 PM
Celebrating the auspicious occasion of the 2568th Buddha Jayanti, the Canada-based Hyolmo Society of Canada extends a cordial invitation to all. Every year Buddhists worldwide commemorate the teachings and legacy of Gautama Buddha. This year, the society is organizing a grand event at Yonge-Dundas Square, featuring Bhachhyam (a religious and cultural dance) to promote global peace. Nepali communities and various organizations are invited to participate, fostering unity and cultural exchange. Additionally, the society welcomes contributions from individuals and organizations interested in supporting this cause. Come together tocommemorate and contribute towards the propagation of peace and cultural preservation. For more information, visit hyolmosocietyofcanada.org
08: Things To Do Around The Square
Yonge-Dundas Square is known for the huge screens surrounding it, the fountains, the stage, the crowds of people and numerous events, concerts, public art installations and we can go on and on. But did you know that there are other fun things to do around the Square? Check out some of the top things you can do on your next visit to the Square!
Toronto Double-Decker Sightseeing Tour: Multicultural and diverse, Toronto prides itself on its unique neighbourhoods. Each neighbourhood offers something different, from the bohemian Kensington Market, to the affluent, high-fashion area of Yorkville. Hop on board one of City Sightseeing Toronto’s open top buses now as we take you to 15 magnificent stops. Book today with City Sightseeing! The ticket booth and pickup location is located right at the Square. Link: https://citysightseeingtoronto.com/
The Tenor: The Tenor is an impressive complex spanning 340,000 square feet, offering a dynamic blend of retail, office, restaurants and entertainment spaces. Positioned at the bustling intersection of Yonge and Dundas Streets, it serves as a hub in the heart of downtown Toronto, capturing the essence of urban life at its finest. While visiting The Tenor, you can savour the sunshine as you dine on the patio of Jack Astor’s, enjoy all the summer blockbusters at the Cineplex Yonge-Dundas & VIP, shop the latest trends at Winners, and be mesmerised by the unique journey of discovery through the sights and sounds of our great country in miniature scale at Little Canada. Link: https://thetenor.ca/
Toronto Eaton Centre: Right across from Yonge-Dundas Square, TEC attracts more visitors than any of Toronto's tourist attractions because it sits on top of two subway stations in downtown Toronto and is close to Union Station. It is North America's busiest shopping mall when one counts the daily commuters along with tourist traffic. The mall has over 230 stores and restaurants. Link: https://shops.cadillacfairview.com/property/cf-toronto-eaton-centre
07: Food Around The Square
Toronto's reputation for multiculturalism is reflected in its diverse culinary landscape, offering a wide array of cuisines from around the globe. Here are some of our top picks for dining experiences around Yonge-Dundas Square.
The Tenor: Jack Astor’s, Spring Sushi, Blaze Pizza
Eaton Centre: Milestone’s, JOEY’s, Queen’s Cross Food Hall
East Asian Flavours: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka, Hai Di Lao Hot Pot, Moon Palace Cantonese Cuisine
Other favourites: The Senator, Bangkok Garden
06: Movies Filmed Around The Square
Get ready for the summer blockbuster season! Did you know that numerous movies were filmed at and near the Square?! Here are a few of our top picks for movies filmed on or around Yonge-Dundas Square. Plus, don't forget to check out the summer flicks playing at Cineplex, just across the street!
1. Kick Ass 1&2 (FILM)
2. Suicide Squad (FILM)
3. The Incredible Hulk (FILM)
5.. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (FILM - Kerr Hall, TMU)
6. Chicago (FILM - Elgin Theatre)
7. Repo Men (FILM - Eaton Centre)
We hope you enjoyed our initial segment of ‘Countdown to Summer’. Keep an eye out for the second segment of our Summer Countdown in a few weeks. Don't forget to subscribe to the YDSquare email list for news & updates!