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Revel in 189 Years of Toronto Arts and Culture

Preparations are underway to usher in the city’s anniversary with two full weeks of programming, starting on March 6. Before

Feb 23, 2023/

NowPlayingToronto /

Preparations are underway to usher in the city’s anniversary with two full weeks of programming, starting on March 6. Before you join the festivities, here’s a guide to the venues hosting the events and their place in the local cultural landscape.

If the walls of cultural venues could talk, what would they say about their role in the city’s history? Many Toronto music venues, theatres, museums, and attractions have been around for decades, so they would definitely have some stories to tell. Read on to learn about the notable venues taking part in the two-week Celebrate Toronto festival — and things to do in Toronto during the festivities.

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Nathan Phillips Square

Birth year: 1965

The history: At the intersection of Queen and Bay street, Nathan Phillips Square forms the forecourt of City Hall. Much more than that, it’s the site of concerts, art displays, farmers’ markets, festivals, and other special events Toronto hosts. Did you know that when the plaza was being built, the south side of Queen Street — which included burlesque theatres, pawn shops, and cinema — was considered a commercial slum?

The celebrations: Kick off the festival with live music on March 6 at Celebrate Toronto. The concert features JUNO Award winners Glenn Lewis and Savannah Ré along with local vendors, food trucks, skating, and a warming lounge.

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Rivoli

Birth year: 1982

The history: After earning a reputation as one of Canada’s hippest music clubs in the ’80s, Rivoli went on to become a go-to for those looking to laugh. Even today, talent scouts for Just for Laughs still visit the venue’s Monday night comedy shows. At the same time, Rivoli still continues to host live music events.

The celebrations: Check out a group art show dedicated to the city on March 6, complete with an after-party. There’s a comedy night with a lineup of local women comedians — including Allie Pearse — to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 7. The venue is also facilitating a live music show, Toronto Rising Stars, on March 14.

The Silver Dollar Room

Birth year: 195

The history: On Spadina Avenue, north of College Street, this blues-turned-rock bar is an iconic venue. Back in the ’70s, it began to attract famous musicians such as Bob Dylan and more recently The Barenaked Ladies. The current Silver Dollar Room is actually a rebuild of the original, which was torn down in 2018.

The celebrations: Enjoy live music, Toronto-style, and dance to songs inspired by the ’50s and ’60s at The Silver Dollar Room’s 65-Year Commemoration on March 10 and 11.

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Daniels Spectrum

Birth year: 2012

The history: Not even a teen yet but Daniels Spectrum has already made a major mark on Toronto’s arts and culture map. It’s home to various arts and community organizations, and it includes arts spaces such as the popular Artscape-operated venue Ada Slaight Hall and Aki Studio.

The celebrations: Treat yourself on behalf of the city at the Toronto Made Market – Spring Show East, featuring 70 local vendors, on March 12.

Ascent Gallery

Birth year: 2023

The history: This baby of the bunch is just getting started. Witness the history of the newest Toronto art gallery unfold.

The celebrations: On March 15, inside the Etobicoke Civic Centre, Celebrate Toronto hosts Ascent Gallery’s opening with a curated Toronto-themed show.

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The El Mocambo

Birth year: 1850

The history: Spadina’s a hot spot of sorts for historic music venues. But well before The El Mocambo opened in 1948 and became known for surprise shows by music legends like the Rolling Stones, it was a safe haven for those who escaped slavery.

The celebrations: On March 16, relive the ’90s with The Electric Circus ’90s Video Dance Party. Bust out the matching tracksuits, flannel shirts, and other ’90s styles for a chance to win prizes.

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The Great Hall

Birth year: 1889

The history: At Queen and Dovercourt, The Great Hall’s lived many lives. It started as the home of the West End Y.M.C.A. before it was turned into the offices for the Royal Templars, a group which called for total abstinence from alcohol. From 1930 to 1971, the Polish National Union took over the space before it started housing artistic organizations in the mid ’80s. Today, it hosts events, concerts, weddings, and corporate gatherings.

The celebrations: March 18 is your last chance to buy yourself a gift for the city’s birthday with the Toronto Made Market – Spring Show West, featuring 70 local vendors.

Words by: Izabela Shubair