The two curved towers of Toronto City Hall have become one of the defining symbols of the city. The building appears in countless photographs, postcards and movies, and Nathan Phillips Square has become the gathering place for celebrations, protests, concerts and community events.

But before the futuristic structure rose above Queen Street West, this was a very different part of Toronto.

The land where City Hall now stands was once part of The Ward, one of Toronto’s oldest and most densely populated neighbourhoods. For generations, it was where thousands of immigrants arrived, built communities and started new lives. It was also a neighbourhood shaped by poverty, overcrowding and years of neglect.

The construction of the new City Hall in the 1960s was presented as a symbol of Toronto’s future. But creating that future meant removing much of the physical landscape of the past.

Before City Hall: The Story of The Ward

Long before Nathan Phillips Square became the centre of Toronto’s civic life, the area around Queen Street West, Bay Street, College Street and University Avenue was known as St. John’s Ward, usually shortened simply to The Ward.

The neighbourhood developed in the 19th century as Toronto grew rapidly. The area became one of the first places where new arrivals to the city settled, particularly immigrants arriving with limited financial resources. Over time, The Ward became home to Irish, Jewish, Italian, Chinese and other immigrant communities who helped shape Toronto’s cultural identity.¹

The Ward was not simply a neighbourhood of hardship. It was also a place of small businesses, religious institutions, social organizations and tightly connected communities. Newcomers often found their first homes, jobs and support networks there before moving elsewhere in the growing city.²

However, by the early 20th century, city officials increasingly viewed the area as a problem to be solved. Housing conditions were often poor, with overcrowded buildings, inadequate sanitation and limited infrastructure. Public health concerns and changing attitudes toward urban planning led officials to consider large-scale redevelopment.

The history of The Ward is therefore complicated. It was both a neighbourhood where many residents faced difficult living conditions and a place where generations of immigrants created communities that became part of Toronto’s identity.

A City Looking for a New Identity

By the middle of the 20th century, Toronto was changing quickly.

The population was growing, businesses were expanding and city leaders wanted a civic centre that reflected Toronto’s ambitions as a modern international city.

The old Toronto City Hall, located at Queen Street West and Bay Street, had opened in 1899. Designed by prominent architect E.J. Lennox, the Romanesque Revival building was considered one of the city’s greatest architectural achievements when it was completed.³

However, by the 1950s, city operations had outgrown the building. Offices were scattered throughout different locations, and civic leaders believed Toronto needed a modern administrative centre.

The idea of transforming the area into a civic square had existed for decades. Earlier plans imagined grand public spaces and government buildings around the area, but none came to fruition. The postwar era provided the political momentum and financial resources needed to finally reshape the centre of the city.⁴

The International Competition for Toronto’s New City Hall

Rather than selecting a local architect, Toronto launched an international design competition in 1958 to find a landmark building that would represent the city’s future.

The competition attracted worldwide attention. More than 500 designs were submitted from architects around the globe, making it one of the largest architectural competitions held at the time.⁵

The jury included some of the most respected figures in architecture, including Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, who was known for designing major modern landmarks such as the TWA Flight Center at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.⁵

The winning design came from Finnish architect Viljo Revell.

Revell’s proposal was unlike anything Toronto had built before. Instead of a traditional government building with columns and stone façades, he created a bold modernist design featuring two curved towers surrounding a circular council chamber.

The design immediately became controversial.

Some residents loved the futuristic appearance and believed it represented a confident, forward-looking Toronto. Others criticized it as too unusual and argued that a city hall should look more traditional.

Despite the debate, Toronto had chosen a building that would become one of the most recognizable examples of modern architecture in Canada.

A New City Hall Rises Over an Old Neighbourhood

Construction began in the early 1960s after the site was cleared and prepared for the massive project.

The transformation was enormous. Buildings that had occupied the area for generations were demolished, changing the physical landscape of downtown Toronto forever.

The construction project also involved creating Nathan Phillips Square, a large public space designed to work together with the new building. The goal was not simply to create offices for city workers but to create a civic gathering place where residents could come together.⁶

During excavation, thousands of cubic metres of soil and material were removed. Some of the material from downtown construction projects during this era was later used in the creation of Toronto’s Leslie Street Spit, a man-made peninsula built from urban fill.⁷

The End of The Ward’s Physical Landscape

The construction of City Hall marked one of the final stages in the disappearance of much of The Ward’s original streetscape.

The neighbourhood had already been changing for decades, with many residents moving away as housing was cleared and redevelopment projects expanded. But the construction of the civic centre permanently altered the area.

Today, visitors standing in Nathan Phillips Square are surrounded by some of Toronto’s most famous landmarks. Few would immediately recognize that the same space once contained homes, stores, religious buildings and community spaces where thousands of Torontonians lived their daily lives.

The story of City Hall is therefore also the story of what was lost in the name of modernization.

The Opening of Toronto City Hall

After years of planning and construction, Toronto’s new City Hall officially opened in September 1965.

The building was unveiled as a symbol of a changing Toronto. The city was growing rapidly, welcoming new residents from around the world and transforming from a regional centre into one of Canada’s largest and most internationally recognized cities.

However, the architect behind the design would never see the finished building that made him famous.

Viljo Revell died in 1964, just one year before Toronto City Hall officially opened. His vision was completed by his architectural team and local project partners, but he never experienced the public reaction to the completed landmark.⁵

The opening of City Hall was a major moment for Toronto. The building represented a break from the architectural traditions of the past and a declaration that the city was looking toward the future.

At the time, Toronto City Hall was one of the most ambitious civic buildings in North America. Its unusual shape, modern materials and integration with a public square made it unlike any other government building in Canada.

The Fate of Old City Hall

Old City Hall survived the arrival of its replacement, but its troubles weren’t over.

In the years after the new City Hall opened, a separate threat emerged: plans for the Eaton Centre shopping complex called for the demolition of Old City Hall, with only its clock tower to be preserved as a monument. The building, which had served as the centre of municipal government since 1899, was seen by some developers and planners as an obstacle standing in the way of a new downtown retail anchor.⁸

However, public opposition grew quickly.

Many Torontonians believed the Richardson Romanesque building was an important part of the city’s heritage. Preservation advocates argued that Toronto should not destroy one historic landmark in order to celebrate another.

The campaign to save Old City Hall succeeded. Instead of being demolished, the building was preserved and eventually became the Ontario Court of Justice.

The decision became an important moment in Toronto’s heritage movement and helped change attitudes toward protecting historic buildings.

Nathan Phillips Square Becomes Toronto’s Living Room

While City Hall was designed to house municipal government, the space in front of it became something much larger.

Nathan Phillips Square quickly became one of Toronto’s most important public gathering spaces.

The square was named after Nathan Phillips, who served as mayor of Toronto from 1955 to 1962 and helped champion the construction of the new City Hall project. Although he left office before the building opened, his support helped move the project forward.⁹

Over the decades, the square has hosted some of the city’s biggest moments.

Residents have gathered there for championship celebrations, concerts, cultural festivals, demonstrations, holiday events and moments of remembrance. In winter, the reflecting pool becomes a popular skating rink, while the Toronto sign installed in 2015 has become one of the city’s most photographed attractions.

The square succeeded in doing what its designers intended: creating a shared civic space where Toronto residents could come together.

A Building That Changed Toronto’s Image

When Toronto City Hall opened, it represented a major shift in how the city saw itself.

Before the 1960s, Toronto was often viewed as a conservative city known for traditional architecture and institutions. The new City Hall challenged that image with a design that was bold, experimental and internationally recognized.

The building became a symbol of Toronto’s confidence during a period of rapid growth.

It also helped establish the city as a place willing to embrace modern architecture. Other major projects followed, including the Eaton Centre, the CN Tower and new downtown developments that reshaped Toronto’s skyline.

Today, Toronto City Hall remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and one of the most important examples of modernist architecture in Canada.

Remembering What Came Before

More than six decades after opening, Toronto City Hall continues to define the centre of the city.

Millions of people have walked through Nathan Phillips Square without knowing the neighbourhood that existed there before. The modern towers, open plaza and reflecting pool now cover a landscape that once held the homes and businesses of The Ward.

The history of Toronto City Hall is therefore a story of both creation and change.

It represents a moment when Toronto looked ahead and built a landmark that would become part of the city’s identity. But it also reminds us that urban progress often comes with difficult questions about whose stories are preserved and whose landscapes disappear.

Today, the building stands as one of Toronto’s great civic symbols: a place where the city’s past, present and future meet.

Sources and Notes

1. City of Toronto, “A Step Forward in Time: Toronto’s New City Hall.”
   Provides historical background on the development of the new City Hall project and Toronto’s civic planning history.https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/online-exhibits/web-exhibits/web-exhibits-local-government/a-step-forward-in-time-torontos-new-city-hall/
2. Heritage Toronto, The Ward.
   Provides historical information about The Ward, its immigrant communities and its role in Toronto’s development.https://www.heritagetoronto.org/
3. City of Toronto, Old City Hall history.
   Provides information about the construction and importance of Toronto’s original city hall.https://www.toronto.ca/
4. City of Toronto, Civic Square planning history.
   Discusses earlier proposals for civic redevelopment in the area surrounding City Hall.https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/
5. Union Internationale des Architectes, Toronto City Hall Competition 1958.
   Provides details about the international competition, the jury and Viljo Revell’s winning design.https://www.uia-architectes.org/en/competition/toronto-city-hall-1958/
6. City of Toronto, “A Step Forward in Time: Viljo Revell’s Winning Design.”
   Provides details about the design, construction and architectural features of Toronto City Hall.https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/online-exhibits/web-exhibits/web-exhibits-local-government/a-step-forward-in-time-torontos-new-city-hall/
7. My Toronto, “Our New City Hall: The Building That Launched Our Future.”
   Provides historical information about the construction of City Hall and the transformation of the surrounding area.https://my-toronto.ca/our-new-city-hall-the-building-that-launched-our-future/
8. Old City Hall preservation history.
   Information about the campaign to save Toronto’s original City Hall.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_City_Hall_(Toronto)
9. City of Toronto, Nathan Phillips Square history.
   Provides information about Nathan Phillips and the history of the civic square.https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/nathan-phillips-square/

The post Toronto City Hall: The Modern Landmark Built Over the Lost Streets of The Ward appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Here, we single out our top picks for essential performances this year – and the reasons why you should be making the trek to Parc St-Jean Drapeau in Montréal this weekend.

WOLF ALICE (Friday, July 31, 2026, 4.05 pm, Mountain Stage)

English quartet Wolf Alice has been steadily and quietly building for themselves a reputation and fan base for their unique – some might say, unconventional brand of dreampop/indie rock.

Slotted in the 4 pm Friday timeslot, fans may need to sneak out of work early to make the performance, but it promises to be worth it. Their fantastic and varied output, with equally delightful song names – “Giant Peach” (2016), “Moaning Lisa Smile” (2014)” – is sure to be a highlight of the early fest.

GEESE (Friday, July 31, 2026, 9.40 pm, Forest Stage)

Geese have been around for a while now – a decade and counting – but really only picked up steam over the past several years, as their unique brand of post-punk rock ‘n roll garnered attention across social media and in some of the leading critical outlets.

Fans can expect to hear “2122” and “Cowboy Nudes” (both off their critically acclaimed 3D Country, 2023) alongside lesser-known, but equally well-received numbers like the brilliant “Low Era” off 2021’s Projector. We’ll see you there!

TATE MCRAE (Saturday, August 1, 2026, 9.20 pm, River Stage)

Calgary’s own Tate McRae is on a blazing-hot streak, her 2025 album So Close To What still notching up the radio plays – and online streams – over a year-and-a-half since its release.

An avowed fan of 90s/00s Canpop – we’re right with you there, Tate – many of her best songs – “Greedy” (2023), “Sports Car” (2025) – carry the unmistakable influence of beloved icons like Nelly Furtado, Avril Lavigne, and The Weeknd (specifically calling out After Hours as her “perfect album”).

Much like last year’s Olivia Rodrigo, fans can expect McRae to put on an absolute showstopper of a performance, with all the bells and whistles expected of a popular music artist at the top of her game.

LORDE (Sunday, August 2, 9.00 pm, River Stage)

The festival’s unofficial closing act – technically, Major Lazer over at the Forest DJ stage has the later set of the day – Kiwi singer-songwriter Lorde is Sunday’s big get.

Lorde may have come to prominence as a teenager with 2013’s “Royals”, but has demonstrated surprising staying power, with subsequent hit albums – Melodrama (2017), Solar Power (2021), Virgin (2025) – offering up an impressive array of alt-pop tunes.

Come for “Royals”, but stay for “Ribs” (2013), “Green Light” (2017), and last year’s “Broken Glass” (off Virgin). Randy Marsh, you are not invited.

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For all things Osheaga, check out the festival website and get your passes now!

The post Osheaga 2026: This Year’s Can’t-Miss Shows appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

My business is called Tasty Tours Toronto, and we are the original and number one-rated food tour company in Toronto. Our tours celebrate the city through one-of-a-kind food experiences, and we focus on creating non-touristy tours that showcase the true tastes of Toronto, the kind of tours that locals bring their friends on. Each tour includes a guided walk around a Toronto neighbourhood with curated stops at various eateries for tastings of edible delights and interesting tidbits of food and Toronto history.

We are best known for our five-star rated, number one selling Kensington Market “Taste The World” Food Tour, and we also offer a Must-Do Toronto Food Tour that showcases hidden food gems in downtown Toronto alongside some the city’s most popular sights, the Grand Chocolate Flight which includes a helicopter tour over the city with a guided tasting from a chocolate expert, and our brand new Soccer & Spice Food Tour running in June and July that visits spots inspired by popular soccer nations to celebrate the World Cup coming to Toronto.

What made you want to do this work?

I’ve always had a love for entrepreneurship, starting from when I was selling homemade cookies to my neighbours in elementary school to raise funds for local charities. When I first graduated from university, I had some time on my hands in between jobs, and I thought I should seize the moment to start experimenting with entrepreneurship. I love eating, travelling and meeting new people, so starting a food tour felt like a natural fit!

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

At the time I started, there were no food tours in Toronto like the kind that was popular in the US and Europe. After taking them while travelling, I realized it was something fun and unique that Toronto was missing.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Tourists, of course! We also get a lot of locals who are looking for something fun to do on the weekend or to celebrate a special occasion. For our private group tours, we are popular among companies looking for interactive team bonding events, as well as event organizers for conferences, and so on that are looking for a way to combine sightseeing and eating.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

People pay for a tour ticket, which includes an experienced tour guide and all food samples on the tour.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Kensington Market is our special place. We are the first, longest running food tour in Kensington Market, which remains our most popular tour today. We are also the only company to offer a food tour in the downtown Toronto core!

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

“What makes you different from other food tours?”

Here’s our answer! We’re the first and longest-running Toronto food tour that’s still run by the founder, so there’s a lot of heart behind what we do. Our tours focus on hidden gems, cool local stories, and authentic flavours—not just trendy Instagram spots. Guests often say they walk away with full bellies but also a deeper appreciation for the city, its history, and its communities. If you want a tour that’s personal, engaging, and full of local flavour (in every sense), you’ll feel right at home with us.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

It’s so hard to choose! It’s a toss-up between meeting new and interesting people on every tour and saying hi to the familiar faces of our store partners on each tour (some of whom we’ve spent over a decade working with!) It’s a joy to help local businesses thrive and to connect with the local and global community.

There isn’t really a worst part. Sometimes you meet unreasonable guests, but most people are lovely, so that more than outweighs the few bad apples!

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

The classic one is how ‘hard’ it is to eat for a living!

Where can we follow you?

All of our tours are available to view on our website. And you can follow us for updates, photos and more on Instagram and Facebook.

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Le Dolci, a fun culinary classroom – it is one of the pioneers of unique food experiences in Toronto. Plus, the owner, Lisa, is a creative and business powerhouse with a truly genuine soul.

The post Homegrown Business: Audrey Ooi of Tasty Tours Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

First, about Rogers Stadium where the BTS concerts being held…

Rogers Stadium is located outside the city core in the area known as Downsview. The concerts are on August 22 and 23. The stadium holds well over 50,500 people. Please DO NOT be confused with the downtown arenas – one has a very similar name. The concert venue relatively easy to get to via public transit (TTC) or GO Transit. But make sure you leave yourselves ample time to get there!

The last couple of concerts I arrived two hours in advance and spent time in merch lines as well as grabbing stadium food for dinner. There are options! If you want to experience next level food and service, then check into the American Express Lounge! Arrive early and enjoy access to the lounge ahead of the concert in style. Food is made by, and with, Liberty Oak View Entertainment aka LOVE, a local catering company. What is highly sought after are their exclusive themed items (and collectibles) on the menu that have been customized to match the vibe of the performer(s) of the night. For BTS, we’ve already learned about a glitter pink drink that will be served in a limited edition reusable cup! Yours to keep and a great souvenir from the night’s experience!

As someone who’s already been to 4 concerts at this venue, there have been a few tweaks this year to getting in and out of the Stadium. But highly recommend packing your patience. Wear comfortable shoes because walking in and out of the venue is a TREK. Hey, you’ll get your steps in! So, stay positive.

Uber and Lyft are both available at specific drop off/pick up points at the stadium as well, BUT be prepared for surge pricing especially after the concerts. The best, and quickest (and I say that lightly), way out is using the lesser known Wilson Station Shuttle Bus – located at Gate 3 and is a decent 10 minute walk. During the recent Bruno Mars concert, I was able to walk right onto the shuttle bus without waiting and it wasn’t packed. It went directly to Wilson Subway Station with very little traffic. For reference, last year it took me 1.5 hours to get home. This year, it took 45 minutes using this route door-to-door. So, yes, a significant difference! BTW, public transit is FREE after the concert when you leave.

Security is tight at Rogers Stadium, and they are serious about bag sizes as well as what you bring INTO the venue. Plastic water bottles must be empty on your way in — but don’t worry, there are TONS of water filling stations within.

Please be sure to check the Rogers Stadium website or app for all your questions answered.

WHERE TO STAY…

If you’re visiting the city for concert dates, the best spots are along the TTC Subway Line. There are lots of options. A great spot is the Kimpton Saint George, which is one block away from St. George Subway Station. It’s a boutique-y hotel in a busy area and is located in a relatively safe area just on the fringe of Yorkville. The subway ride to Downsview Park Station (closest to Rogers Stadium entrance) is about 20 minutes.

The Fairmont Royal York is located right at Union Station, making this a very appealing stay. With a fast and affordable train service (UP Express) to Toronto Pearson Airport and right on the public transit line, you’ll be saving more without having to necessarily grab taxis or ride shares.

The Montecassino Hotel and Event Venue is within walking distance to Rogers Stadium. While I haven’t stayed there personally, I have been to this venue for events. It’s clean. It’s close. But if you’re looking to explore more of downtown, then this isn’t the most convenient.

Uber also just launched the ability to book hotel stays across Canada right within the app. Through a partnership with Expedia, you can now search, book, and secure rides AND hotel stays all in one place. It’s a great way to see what’s available quickly. BTW, Canada is the second country in the world to have this added feature!

WHERE TO EAT…

Many are secretly hoping to bump into the stars while they are in the city. We’re pretty certain they WILL be out, as Toronto is known for having an abundance of excellent Korean restaurants and shops. Their management team has been very good at sourcing out some of the best restaurants in the city for their previous acts that have rolled into town. Our top recommendations (just in case they are reading this lol) are here, and there are many more! If you do see them out, just be respectful and let them have their space and time.

TAKJA Korean BBQ: Located downtown at 962 College Street (open 7 days a week)  is one of the best upscale Korean-style BBQs in the city.  The restaurant was recently named in Canada’s Best 50 Next Discovery alongside the honours of being on Canada’s 100 Best (#46), Michelin Guide Recommended, and Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants! It’s modern and inviting. Chef Jeff Kang and Edward Bang offer up next level cuts of meat that are of higher quality and dry aged. The side dishes are made with love. You may get addicted to their white kimchi as I did. Save room for the Bingsu.

Huh Ga Ne located on Finch Avenue uptown, is a popular 24 hour restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes.

Daldongnae is also a popular Korean BBQ chain. There are also locations around Yonge & Sheppard as well as Yonge & Finch.

H Mart & Galleria grocery stores are ideal spots to pick up fresh Korean snacks and prepared meals too if you’re looking to save some money. You might even want to pick up cans of Dongwan limited edition BTS Jin TUNA as souvenirs! Here is also a Kibo mini mart located inside Union Station. Here you can pick up freshly prepared meals and snacks on the go.

Chocolat de Kat has created a limited edition BTS box of locally made artisanal bonbon chocolates – one of my personal favourites! Each box includes 9 handcrafted  ($35) and absolutely delicious bonbons, each one inspired by the seven BTS members, plus two additional bonbons celebrating the mikrokosmos (aka the ARMY and the OT7). Every box also includes 1 of 7 collectible member-inspired fan art cards. Pre-orders are open now here. Makes for a great gift too!

DaanGo Cake Lab has announced a limited edition 9-piece set of handmade BT21-inspired macarons made by Baker Siu, MasterChef Canada Season 7 winner! The flavours RJ (White Peach), Chimmy (Mango), Cooky (Strawberry), Tata (Earl Grey), Koya (Biscoff), Mang (Salted Egg Yolk), Shooky (Vietnamese Coffee), Van (Black Sesame) and BT21 (Chocolate). A fun treat for gatherings and concert celebrations. Limited Quantities available.

WHERE TO NAMJOON…

The term was inspired by RM (whose full name is Kim Nam-joon). The word was coined by the BTS ARMY to describe the way RM spends his free time: slowing down, wandering through art galleries and museums, reading books, exploring nature, biking, taking thoughtful walks, and generally appreciating the small details of everyday life. Here’s where I would definitely recommend visiting while you’re here in Toronto…

Art Gallery of Ontario: Explore the new Impressionists exhibition for an incredible overview of Impressionism, illustrating the origins of the movement and its considerable impact on two successive generations of avant-garde painters. Drawn from the Dallas Museum of Art, the exhibition includes works by Claude Monet, Berthe Morisot, Vincent van Gogh, Camille Pissarro, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian, Edvard Munch, and others.

Gardiner Museum: Holds an extensive collection of historical and contemporary ceramic works from around the world.  Aside from the exhibitions, there is a special workshop titled “Clayming Beloved Community” caught my attention. It’s happening on August 23 at 6 pm. This evening session, led by a Zen Buddhist practitioner and registered art therapist, guides guests on an exploration of simple physical practices with clay. Designed to bring you into the moment while deepening and expanding awareness that we are all connected. It asks, “Are you centred?”, “Are you open to energy of joy?”, and “Are you open to moving as one?” At the end of the workshop, clay will return to its original form — a sense of letting go of what was created and beginning anew.

401 Richmond Street West: is a hub for creativity. Here you can wander the floors and hallways and discover local artists in galleries and studios. Museum of Toronto (free)  exhibitionsfocuses on the city and what matters to us, locals.

Toronto Islands: Take a ferry or water taxi over to Wards Island or Centre Island for a day of relaxation. There you’ll have a sweeping view of the city’s skyline. Pack a picnic. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride along the paths. Bring a beach towel to enjoy the shoreline at Hanlan’s Point (fyi, this is also a clothing optional beach).

CN Tower: because it’s iconic and it’s also celebrating 50 years, it’s a perfect view to take in and see the world from a Birds Eye view. It can be quite a moving experience if you consider its history and how it has helped shape Toronto in many ways.

ANY LOCAL TORONTO BTS ARMY MEET UPS?  

Absolutely! Tons are being planned throughout the city as we lead up to the concert dates. There are several “unofficial” fun events happening planned by fans! Be sure to read all the details and locations carefully.

Some we’ve already spotted include… BTS Dance Party (19+) presented by Bangtang Ball at TD Music Hall. The Swim Into The Sun K-pop Boat Party at Toronto’s Harbourfront hosted by Noodle Goose Games will include dinner as it cruises along the harbour playing all things BTS. Hanbingo Cafe (397 Spadina Ave) is constantly hosting K-pop fan events so watch their IG for updates!

Also, be sure to check out Toronto Korean Festival happening at Mel Lastman Square uptown August 21, 22, and 23. The three day outdoor celebration of all-things Korean features music, culture, beauty, and more. Several K-pop groups will be performing here throughout the event dates. Easy to get to via public transit. Full details here.

NIKE BTS Customization activations have been happening globally. “Nike by You” at the Nike Toronto Store (Eaton Centre) opens up August 15.  Be prepared to line up!

CF Eaton Centre is hosting the 2026 COMEBACK FAN ZONE (August 14-16 )with DIY workshops, giveaways, themed photo opps, fan wall, and live K-Pop Beats. See full schedule and details on their site. Noted!  A Lucky Charm: Norigae Workshop shines a spotlight on Korean art traditions. It’s just one of the special workshops in collaboration with BTS ARMY Toronto. They will also have a Hanbok photo opp.  Reserve your spot fast! It will very be popular!

Permission to Golf special day with Canada Park Golf and BTS ARMY Toronto. August 9. This isn’t your traditional golf. Join in for a unique BTS-themed experience, meet fellow ARMY, and enjoy a day of fun on the course. The ticket includes: equipment loaner, a Korean boxed meal, a water bottle, bingsu (Korean shaved ice), photo opps, a freebies trading zone, prizes at holes, and of course you’ll get to meet Cooky and Shooky!

Keep an eye on BTS ARMY TORONTO on IG for more announcements of fun stuff coming up! And be sure to thank them! This team is run by volunteers, and we’re pretty certain they’ve not slept for the past couple of months.

WePix Light Activation: There’s also a special light activation happening during the concerts that is being organized by fans. You’ll want to go on Facebook and search for Maple Army Project to learn more. Everyone is invited to participate, which will no doubt be a moving moment for the musicians.

AND FINALLY, SOME QUIRKY BUT USEFUL NOTES…

If you’re planning to make FREEBIES to give away, note Rogers Stadium has an odd rule about NO STICKERS once you’re inside the gates. The reason is they want to keep control of any potential vandalism from happening. We guess they don’t understand the true culture of BTS Army being very respectful.

There’s been a lot of chatter about using a clear bag to carry your things. If you’d rather be safe than sorry, follow their guidelines and sure (it may be another excuse to purchase a cute bag?). It’s recommended but not necessary. I’ve carried in a small crossbody bag to the past four concerts at this venue. I carried my iPhone, a credit card, keys, and lipstick. I also packed a small foldable nylon shopping tote just in case I was successful at the merch booth.

If you’re a die-hard BTS Fan you know how important it is to the group to connect with their fans. That’s why they strongly request that during the concert you put your phones away.  They’d rather see your face than your phones! I know this is really hard to do lol.

Reminder that if you are lucky to see BTS members “in the wild” at restaurants, art galleries, please give them space and try not to take candid photos. In other words, please don’t be a sasaeng (obsessive stalker). The group has worked really hard to give fans everything at their concerts in every city, but they do need time to reset and recover in order to do so. True BTS Army are quite protective of their energy and respect the guys and their personal time.

If you need any more reason to get excited, go rewatch the BTS Come Back Documentary and the Arirang LIVE Concert on Netflix Canada for the 100th time.

*Lead in Photo: BTS on Netflix Canada

The post The Ultimate BTS Visitors’ Guide to Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

I’m the founder of two Mississauga-based restaurants: East Tea Can, a full-service Middle Eastern eatery, and Soul Smash Burgers, a simple, back-to-basics smash burger spot.

What made you want to do this work?

I grew up surrounded by great food and hospitality in the Middle East, and when I moved to Canada, I saw a big opportunity to bring that same quality and feeling here.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

At East Tea Can, we wanted to solve a simple but meaningful problem: the lack of places that serve authentic, high-quality Middle Eastern food with the same social and cultural nuances you experience in the Levant. Food in our culture isn’t just a dish; it’s about the conversation, connection, and community. Our goal was to bring that feeling forward and create a space that reflects the love we have for our heritage.

With Soul Smash Burgers, the concept is completely different, but the intention at its core is similar. We wanted to cut through the noise of overcomplicated menus and trends by focusing on high-quality, no-fluff ingredients. It’s about making great food through a chef’s lens: thoughtful, simple, and delicious.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

For East Tea Can, our guests are incredibly diverse. The restaurant naturally attracts anyone seeking an authentic Levantine dining experience, from families and friends to people who simply love gathering around food meant to be shared. Our menu was intentionally designed for communal moments, so we see a wide range of guests who appreciate culture, flavour, and connection.

For Soul Smash Burgers, the demographic is just as broad. It’s a place for anyone seeking a simple, well-crafted burger made with quality ingredients and intention. Whether stopping by for a quick bite or enjoying a comforting meal, our guests are people who value flavour without the fuss.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

East Tea Can offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering, while Soul Smash Burgers focuses on dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Both are built on strong systems that ensure a consistent experience across all services.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Currently, both East Tea Can and Soul Smash Burgers are located in Mississauga, and our catering serves the entire GTA. We also plan to expand Soul Smash Burgers with additional locations in the west end of the GTA.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

What makes your food different?

At East Tea Can, everything is made 100% from scratch in our commissary using authentic Middle Eastern ingredients sourced from reputable importers.

Soul Smash Burgers was built with a single goal: to focus on the fundamentals and do them exceptionally well. Each burger is made with AAA prime-grade Ontario beef that is hormone-free, sustainably raised, and cooked fresh to order. With morning and evening deliveries and the beef ground twice daily, every burger is served at peak freshness.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

Best: Watching people look around the restaurant with a smile while waiting for their food, at East Tea Can, it feels like a busy Middle Eastern market, with trays flying by and energy everywhere.

Worst: As a leader, you have to jump in and problem-solve, whether it’s something in your expertise or not. There are times during a busy service when something goes wrong, like equipment failing, a supply issue, and I have to step in to keep things running smoothly and support the team. It can be stressful, but it’s just part of managing everything when things get hectic.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

People think running restaurants is easy.

Where can we follow you?

You can follow us at @eastteacan and @soulburgers.ca

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Honestly, all the neighbours in our plaza. We support each other, and everyone is working hard to build something great.

The post Homegrown Business: Shakir Al-Qanbar of East Tea Can appeared first on Toronto Guardian.