Wednesday, September 30 | 12 PM

On September 30, join us at Sankofa Square as we come together for Remembering the Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a national commemorative gathering taking place on Parliament Hill and shared with communities across Canada.

Presented by APTN and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, the multilingual gathering will feature Survivor testimony, music and shared reflection in English, French and traditional Indigenous languages.

Learn More

Tuesday, September 29 | 12 - 3PM

Ziploc® is teaming up with Too Good To Go, the social-impact company behind the world’s largest marketplace for surplus food, to turn yesterday’s “firsts” into irresistible “seconds.” 

If you’re in Toronto on September 29, come spin the Wheel of Sandwiches at the Surprise Seconds truck at Sankofa Square from 12pm-3pm or until supplies last. You’ll leave with cooking inspiration and a delicious lunch made with food from our partner restaurants.

Learn More

Sunday, September 27 | Noon to 3:00 PM

FEEL THE VIBES. MOVE WITH THE COMMUNITY. FLAUNT YOUR ENERGY.

Jully Black and The Power of STEP are joining forces with Socacize Fitness for a FREE Caribbean fitness experience at Sankofa Square.

Featuring Coach Karen, Coach Stacey and Coach Asra.

The Power of STEP is a high energy, low impact fitness experience blending traditional STEP aerobics with cardio, dance, strength and music. All Levels. All Ages. All Genders. Expect a fun blend of Soca, Reggae and Dancehall movement with STEP aerobics incorporated throughout. Own a STEP? Bring it. No STEP? No problem. Come dance, sweat, release the stress of the day and STEP into your power.

How to Join:

• REGISTER
  Walk-ins are always welcome, but signing up in advance helps us plan!

• Note: All participants are required to complete a waiver. You can fill one out onsite or download it here to sign in advance.

Tuesday, September 22 | 3 – 6 PM

Join our friends at Downtown Yonge BIA and the Yonge Street Neighbourhood Community Officers for a free afternoon dedicated to cycling, safety and community.

Bring your bike and enjoy free bike tune-ups, bike safety training, coffee with your Neighbourhood Community Officers and receive free bike swag and more!

Sunday, September 20 | 12 - 8PM

Anatolia Fest brings the vibrant culture, art, and flavours of Türkiye to the heart of Toronto at Sankofa Square!

This free, family-friendly festival invites visitors to experience Turkish cuisine, traditional arts, live music and cultural performances, hands-on activities, a Turkish book fair, and more.

From centuries-old traditions to contemporary cultural experiences, Anatolia Fest creates a welcoming space for Toronto’s diverse communities to discover, taste, learn, and celebrate together.

The event is sponsored by Turkish Airlines & GoTürkiye.

Learn More

Saturday, September 19 | 11 AM – 11 PM

Smoke-A-Palooza is back! Join Smoke’s Poutinerie for 12 hours of non-stop entertainment, featuring free fries, curds & gravy, high-energy activations, daredevil stunts, prizes, and the legendary World Poutine Eating Championship (WPEC).

Come for the poutine, stay for the party — this is one event you don’t want to miss!

Learn More

Wednesday, September 9 | 5 - 9PM

30 Days to Imagiin: A Community Wellness Meetup & an Imagiin Summit x Sankofa Square Takeover, kicking off the official countdown to the 2026 Imagiin Summit with a free gathering at Sankofa Square, hosted by Domanique Grant.

Join us for an evening of movement, connection, and celebration from 5–9pm:

• 5pm — Networking, vendor experience, and activities

• 6pm — Vinyasa Flow yoga led by Amanda Rumley

• 7:15pm — Socacize session led by Socacize Fitness

The 2026 Imagiin Summit takes place October 7 at The Great Hall — one of Canada’s leading professional development and wellness summits for the music, creative, and cultural industries, powered by Grammy- and Juno-winning thought leaders. Taking place ahead of World Mental Health Day, this evening reflects what Imagiin is all about: creating access to wellness and connection. Drop by anytime — we hope to see you there.

Learn more & REGISTER HERE

Sunday, September 6 | 8AM - 2PM

Hunger isn't just a statistic; it’s a child trying to learn on an empty stomach, a senior choosing between food and medicine, or a neighbour wondering where their next meal will come from.

Join Sai Dham Food Bank's 8th Annual Hunger Relief Walk and turn your steps into hope. Every step helps provide nutritious meals to those facing food insecurity in our community. Bring your family, friends, and colleagues, and walk for a cause that matters. Together, we can ensure no one has to face hunger alone. One walk. One community. Thousands of lives impacted.

Learn more

Friday, September 6 | 3 - 11 PM

Oistins in the 6ix is back! For one unforgettable night, Visit Barbados is bringing the spirit of its legendary Oistins Fish Fry to the heart of Toronto. Join us at Sankofa Square on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 3:00PM–11:00PM for an energetic celebration of Bajan food, music and culture.

Expect authentic island flavours, Caribbean beats, live entertainment, giveaways and plenty of good vibes as Toronto gets a taste of Barbados — no plane ticket required.

Learn More

Thursday, September 3 | 6:00 - 10:00 PM

Enjoy free live concerts featuring a curated mix of emerging artists and beloved homegrown icons. At Sankofa Square, this weekly celebration brings the vibrant energy of Toronto’s music scene right to the heart of downtown for an unforgettable #HotSquareSummer evening.

Waveland Canada presents an incredible 4-hour showcase of rising Canadian talent. From soulful R&B and indie-pop to high-energy DJ sets, this diverse lineup is the perfect soundtrack for a summer night in the city. 

FEATURED ARTISTS

DJ TWXLL

TWXLL is a prominent, Toronto-based DJ, producer, and curator. Deeply rooted in the city's nightlife and music scene, he is known for hosting energetic day parties, weekly club residencies, and crafting sought-after mixes across multiple genres. @twxllv2 

Anika Marie 

Anika Marie is a singer, songwriter, performer, and educator who channels the raw, soulful energy of R&B through her music. Her work captures unfiltered emotions that come with love, growth, and self-discovery. @anikamariemusic

Chara Kai-Le

Chara Kai-Le is a Toronto-based, multilingual alt-pop and indie-bedroom pop singer-songwriter and producer. Born and raised across Malaysia, Singapore, England, and Canada, her multicultural "third culture kid" identity heavily influences her genre-blurring sound, which blends contemplative lyrics with electronic, R&B, and indie-pop elements. @charakaile

Jennarie

Jennarie is a Toronto-based independent artist who blends pop, R&B and jazz into a sound that's entirely her own- soulful, bold, and rooted in emotional truth. @jennariemusic

About Our Partner: Waveland

Waveland is a Canadian nonprofit music organization dedicated to supporting local musicians, empowering the Canadian music industry, and making live music accessible to everyone. Learn more at waveland.ca or follow them at @wavelandcanada.

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Wednesday, September 2 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

FEEL THE VIBES. MOVE WITH THE COMMUNITY. FLAUNT YOUR ENERGY.

This summer, Toronto comes alive with the rhythm, culture, and excitement of Socacize in the Square! We are turning up the heat for our July fitness series by handing Sankofa Square over to Socacize Fitness for a vibrant, high-energy Caribbean and African dance fitness takeover.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration where fitness, Caribbean culture, music, and community collide. Whether you’re coming to sweat, support local vendors, enjoy the entertainment, or spend quality time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. This is your invitation to move, connect, celebrate, and FLAUNT your best self all summer long!

How to Join:

• REGISTER
  Walk-ins are always welcome, but signing up in advance helps us plan!

• Note: All participants are required to complete a waiver. You can fill one out onsite or download it here to sign in advance.

Here’s what awaits you:

• 🎶 Live Caribbean Vibes: Feel the energy of Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Afro beats, and more as the music moves your body and lifts your spirit.

• 🔥 The Fitness Fête: Get ready to wine, wave, and work up a sweat with hundreds of participants in the ultimate outdoor Socacize workout experience, designed for every age, stage, and fitness level.

• 💃 Cultural Performances: Experience dynamic showcases that celebrate the richness, creativity, and diversity of Caribbean culture.

• 🛍️ Local Vendors Marketplace: Discover and support amazing local businesses offering food, products, services, and unique community experiences.

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole crew for an evening filled with connection, culture, laughter, and positive vibes.

This Week’s Schedule

6:00 PM — Pre-Pump music with DJ DOC

6:30 PM — Socacize Kidz with Ayanna Lee-Rivears

7:00 PM — Drum Circle with Keith Pascall

7:30 PM — Socacize Jam Session with instructors Ayanna and Lauren plus DJ DOC

8:30 PM — Post-Pump music with DJ DOC

Featured Session: Socacize Kidz is a creative blend of Caribbean & African dance movements set to the rhythms of soca, calypso, reggae, dancehall and on occasion hip hop. This exhilarating total body workout welcomes children aged 8 to 14 years old to join a 30-minute session.

Why Your Body & Soul Will Thank You:

• F.L.A.U.N.T. in real life: Feel, Love, Appreciate, Unite, Nourish & Triumph!

• Burn calories while enjoying carnival-style energy.

• Judgment-free, welcoming atmosphere for all bodies and fitness levels.

• Meet wellness enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

• Support local businesses and discover new brands.

Fitness in the Square series dates: September 2

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Tuesday, September 1 | NOON - 3PM

Transform your Tuesday lunch hour into a high-energy #HotSquareSummer reset with live DJ sets curated by DJ Killa Kels and a rotating selection of local food. Or, bring your own lunch to the vibes. At Sankofa Square, we’re energizing the midday workday and fueling the rhythm of the downtown core. 

Featuring DJ Revy B
Revy B is one of the premier DJs in Canada. Blending soulful R&B with the vibrant new sounds coming out of Africa, she has opened for artists such as Erykah Badu, Jidenna, Boyz II Men, and Mr. Eazi. An accountant by day, she is a resident DJ of Gumbo and the co-founder of She Be Lady, an International Women's Day event that spotlights African women. As co-founder of Afrikanah, she has built one of the most electric African music party experiences in the country, a space where Afrobeats, Amapiano, Afrohouse, and the best sounds from across the continent come alive on the dance floor. As the voice behind The B-Side podcast, she's dedicated to telling the stories of DJs and bringing their journeys to the forefront. 

Lunchtime in the Square is curated by DJ Killa Kels
An accomplished open-format DJ with over 12 years of experience, DJ Killa Kels is known for spinning the city's hottest events—including her unforgettable run as the official Jurassic Park DJ during the Toronto Raptors’ historic 2019 NBA Championship.

Come grab a bite from local food options or bring your own lunch, soak in the sun, and let the DJ vibes provide the perfect soundtrack for your midday reset!

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Thursday, August 27 | 6 - 10PM

Free live concerts featuring a curated mix of emerging artists and beloved homegrown icons. A weekly celebration of Toronto’s music scene in the heart of downtown.

Featuring the honeycomb band, rianna jones & michael carter arlt

hosted by tmu’s ryan kerr

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Wednesday, August 26 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

FEEL THE VIBES. MOVE WITH THE COMMUNITY. FLAUNT YOUR ENERGY.

This summer, Toronto comes alive with the rhythm, culture, and excitement of Socacize in the Square! We are turning up the heat for our July fitness series by handing Sankofa Square over to Socacize Fitness for a vibrant, high-energy Caribbean and African dance fitness takeover.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration where fitness, Caribbean culture, music, and community collide. Whether you’re coming to sweat, support local vendors, enjoy the entertainment, or spend quality time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. This is your invitation to move, connect, celebrate, and FLAUNT your best self all summer long!

How to Join:

• REGISTER
  Walk-ins are always welcome, but signing up in advance helps us plan!

• Note: All participants are required to complete a waiver. You can fill one out onsite or download it here to sign in advance.

Here’s what awaits you:

• 🎶 Live Caribbean Vibes: Feel the energy of Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Afro beats, and more as the music moves your body and lifts your spirit.

• 🔥 The Fitness Fête: Get ready to wine, wave, and work up a sweat with hundreds of participants in the ultimate outdoor Socacize workout experience, designed for every age, stage, and fitness level.

• 💃 Cultural Performances: Experience dynamic showcases that celebrate the richness, creativity, and diversity of Caribbean culture.

• 🛍️ Local Vendors Marketplace: Discover and support amazing local businesses offering food, products, services, and unique community experiences.

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole crew for an evening filled with connection, culture, laughter, and positive vibes.

This Week’s Schedule

6:00 PM — Pre-Pump music with DJ DOC

6:30 PM — Socacize Kidz with Ayanna Lee-Rivears

7:00 PM — Drum Circle with Keith Pascall

7:30 PM — Socacize Jam Session with instructors Ayanna and Lauren plus DJ DOC

8:30 PM — Post-Pump music with DJ DOC

Featured Session: Socacize Kidz is a creative blend of Caribbean & African dance movements set to the rhythms of soca, calypso, reggae, dancehall and on occasion hip hop. This exhilarating total body workout welcomes children aged 8 to 14 years old to join a 30-minute session.

Why Your Body & Soul Will Thank You:

• F.L.A.U.N.T. in real life: Feel, Love, Appreciate, Unite, Nourish & Triumph!

• Burn calories while enjoying carnival-style energy.

• Judgment-free, welcoming atmosphere for all bodies and fitness levels.

• Meet wellness enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

• Support local businesses and discover new brands.

Fitness in the Square series dates: September 2

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Tuesday, August 25 | NOON - 3PM

Transform your lunch hour with high-energy DJ sets and a rotating selection of local food trucks. A #HotSquareSummer reset that reenergizes the midday workday.

Featuring DJ Phenomenal

PHENOMENAL - not just a DJ, but an innovator and trendsetter from Toronto's vibrant scene. Renowned for his varied mixes rooted in a comprehensive understanding of many genres, he's the driving force behind Palm Trees, a platform dedicated to bringing you international vibrations and bridging the gap between worldwide genres. Beyond DJing, he's a multi-faceted artist pushing boundaries in music and the arts. Passionate and relentless, PHENOMENAL connects cultures and sounds, creating unforgettable experiences. @dhphenomenal

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Sunday, August 23 | 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Celebrate Connections. Inspire Tomorrow.

What to Expect: Celebrate Sankofa Day with the entire family! Join us for an uplifting day of connection, education, and empowerment where heritage comes alive through outdoor film screenings, vibrant community art activations, and powerful storytelling. Enjoy interactive youth zones, ancestral presentations, and inspiring creative spaces designed for all generations.

DAY 3 DETAILS & SCHEDULE

About SankofaFest

SankofaFest is an immersive, three-day festival of fashion, music, art, and community. Guided by the vibrant spirit of Sankofa—honouring our rich heritage to build a joyful, inclusive future—this year's expanded festival brings together global rhythms, jaw-dropping runway moments, and interactive spaces for all generations. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome! More about SankofaFest

Saturday, August 22 | 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Feel the Rhythm. Own the Night.

What to Expect: Turn up the energy with live DJs, dancers, and incredible musical showcases highlighting Afrobeats, Dancehall, and global Afrodiasporic culture. The day builds from emerging artists and collectives to international headliner Mýa.

DAY 2 DETAILS & SCHEDULE

About SankofaFest

SankofaFest is an immersive, three-day festival of fashion, music, art, and community. Guided by the vibrant spirit of Sankofa—honouring our rich heritage to build a joyful, inclusive future—this year's expanded festival brings together global rhythms, jaw-dropping runway moments, and interactive spaces for all generations. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome! More about SankofaFest

Friday, August 21 | 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Step into Culture. Discover Style.

What to Expect: Explore a vibrant, open-air marketplace of curated vendors, delicious food, live DJs, and experiences, culminating in immersive runway shows in partnership with African Fashion Week Toronto.

DAY 1 DETAILS & SCHEDULE

About SankofaFest

SankofaFest is an immersive, three-day festival of fashion, music, art, and community. Guided by the vibrant spirit of Sankofa—honouring our rich heritage to build a joyful, inclusive future—this year's expanded festival brings together global rhythms, jaw-dropping runway moments, and interactive spaces for all generations. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome! More about SankofaFest

Thursday, August 20 | 6 - 10PM

Free live concerts featuring a curated mix of emerging artists and beloved homegrown icons. A weekly celebration of Toronto’s music scene in the heart of downtown.

Featuring shann aberdeen, quincy isaiah, melo griffith & OSÉ, with djs otr and a3hton

presented by: SUMMER'S HAÜS

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Wednesday, August 19 | 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Free outdoor sessions focused on movement, mindfulness, and community care. The ultimate after-work decompression designed to recharge both body and mind as the city transitions into the evening.

More details about this event coming soon.

Fitness in the Square series dates: June 3, 10 & 24; July 8, 15, 22 & 29; August 5, 12, 19 & 26 

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Tuesday, August 18 | NOON - 3PM

Transform your lunch hour with high-energy DJ sets and a rotating selection of local food trucks. A #HotSquareSummer reset that reenergizes the midday workday.

Featuring DJ Sammy Noir, DJ ZAAM, and Keyon

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Friday, August 14 | 3 PM – 9 PM

A special partner presentation celebrating Black creativity and entrepreneurship. This afternoon-to-evening market features curated local fashion, art, and handcrafted goods from Black-owned businesses.

More details about this event coming soon.

Melanin Market in the Square dates: June 5, July 10, & August 14

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Thursday, August 13 | 5 - 9PM

Free live concerts featuring a curated mix of emerging artists and beloved homegrown icons. A weekly celebration of Toronto’s music scene in the heart of downtown.

Featuring Bella Rosa, Amanda Movio & Anika Marie

Sounds by Just Jenneh

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Wednesday, August 12 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

FEEL THE VIBES. MOVE WITH THE COMMUNITY. FLAUNT YOUR ENERGY.

This summer, Toronto comes alive with the rhythm, culture, and excitement of Socacize in the Square! We are turning up the heat for our July fitness series by handing Sankofa Square over to Socacize Fitness for a vibrant, high-energy Caribbean and African dance fitness takeover.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration where fitness, Caribbean culture, music, and community collide. Whether you’re coming to sweat, support local vendors, enjoy the entertainment, or spend quality time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. This is your invitation to move, connect, celebrate, and FLAUNT your best self all summer long!

How to Join:

• REGISTER
  Walk-ins are always welcome, but signing up in advance helps us plan!

• Note: All participants are required to complete a waiver. You can fill one out onsite or download it here to sign in advance.

Here’s what awaits you:

• 🎶 Live Caribbean Vibes: Feel the energy of Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Afro beats, and more as the music moves your body and lifts your spirit.

• 🔥 The Fitness Fête: Get ready to wine, wave, and work up a sweat with hundreds of participants in the ultimate outdoor Socacize workout experience, designed for every age, stage, and fitness level.

• 💃 Cultural Performances: Experience dynamic showcases that celebrate the richness, creativity, and diversity of Caribbean culture.

• 🛍️ Local Vendors Marketplace: Discover and support amazing local businesses offering food, products, services, and unique community experiences.

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole crew for an evening filled with connection, culture, laughter, and positive vibes.

This Week’s Schedule

6:00 PM — Pre-Pump music with DJ DOC

6:30 PM — Socacize Kidz with Ayanna Lee-Rivears

7:00 PM — Drum Circle with Keith Pascall

7:30 PM — Socacize Jam Session with instructors Ayanna and Lauren plus DJ DOC

8:30 PM — Post-Pump music with DJ DOC

Featured Session: Socacize Kidz is a creative blend of Caribbean & African dance movements set to the rhythms of soca, calypso, reggae, dancehall and on occasion hip hop. This exhilarating total body workout welcomes children aged 8 to 14 years old to join a 30-minute session.

Why Your Body & Soul Will Thank You:

• F.L.A.U.N.T. in real life: Feel, Love, Appreciate, Unite, Nourish & Triumph!

• Burn calories while enjoying carnival-style energy.

• Judgment-free, welcoming atmosphere for all bodies and fitness levels.

• Meet wellness enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

• Support local businesses and discover new brands.

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.

Tuesday, August 11 | NOON - 3PM

Transform your lunch hour with high-energy DJ sets and a rotating selection of local food trucks. A #HotSquareSummer reset that reenergizes the midday workday.

Featuring DJ Frank Vinatra

Victor Bibby, professionally known as Frank Vinatra, is a Toronto-based cultural curator, DJ, music executive, and media host shaping conversations at the intersection of music, media, and community. Known for his philosophy “Energy Doesn’t Lie,” Frank has shared stages with artists like Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Akon, while also hosting impactful conversations on SiriusXM with leading voices across music and culture. Through his EDL community-first platform, Frank continues to create experiences that inspire connection, authenticity, and cultural impact. @itsfrankvinatra

Come grab a bite from local food options or bring your own lunch, soak in the sun, and let the DJ vibes provide the perfect soundtrack for your midday reset!

Upcoming Lunchtime in the Square series dates: August  18 & 25

Go to sankofasquare.ca/hotsquaresummer to see the full season of free weekly events.