Mel Lastman Square is managed by the City of Toronto and features an outdoor theatre that hosts a wide range of events, from the beloved Sunday Serenades jazz concerts to Taste of North York, seasonal Farmers’ Markets, cultural and arts festivals, Canada Day celebrations, and family-friendly programming.
To inquire about booking the square, please contact MelLastmanSquare@toronto.ca.
40’ permanent, covered main stage with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems
City’s largest outdoor fountain and wading pool that serves as an ice rink in the winter
An intimate 300-seat amphitheatre with fully equipped sound and lighting package
Free Wi-Fi for guests
Two 25’ digital program screens at the main stage
Award-winning accessibly designed outdoor space
Market area with built-in amenities to accommodate vendors
Picnic tables, additional seating and umbrellas
Commercial events at Mel Lastman Square can range from intimate gatherings to large-scale productions, utilizing the Stage, Rink, or even the entire Square. Whether you're planning a live concert, food festival, seasonal celebration, or a small pop-up and product sampling, our space is versatile and ready to accommodate. To apply, simply fill out the online application form.
To apply as a non-profit organization, simply complete the online application form. Non-profit organizations may be eligible for a waiver of certain fees. Please contact MelLastmanSquare@
Please contact Paul Quinlan, Community Recreation Programmer at MelLastmanSquare@
Flag raisings enhance public awareness of activities such as fundraising drives, multi-cultural events and national or independence days. For more information, please visit the City of Toronto website and contact MelLastmanSquare@
Commercial photography, television productions and film shoots must apply for a permit to be on site. This includes anything that has a “set-up” or could impede or interfere with another possible activation or event. For more information, please visit the City of Toronto website or contact MelLastmanSquare@
For assistance in promoting your event to local residents or a broader audience, contact us at info@mlsquare.ca.
We provide on-site event equipment to ensure your event runs seamlessly. For a complete list of available equipment, please refer to our Event Guidelines. Contact MelLastmanSquare@
The Mel Lastman Square (MLS) Community Advisory Committee is a non-legislative, non-decision-making body that provides advice to the General Manager of Parks, Forestry and Recreation (PFR) and PFR Division staff on matters related to the use, programming, and future of Mel Lastman Square.
The Advisory Committee offers guidance on:
Programming opportunities that reflect diverse cultural, social, and economic interests
Revitalization of MLS to promote long-term community use
Public animation and activation of MLS as a welcoming public space
Community engagement to enhance local involvement and awareness
The Advisory Committee operates on a 5-year mandate and reviews its Terms of Reference annually.
Local Community Stakeholders:
Yonge North York BIA: Laura Burnham, Domenic Imbesi
North York Arts: Deanna Cadette
Permit Groups:
Maria Speare – Neighbourlink North York
Fiona Su – Canada Arts and Wellness Alliance
David Lee – Emerging Arts Association
Younghee Lee – Korean Canadian Business Association of Ontario
City Councillor and Staff:
Councillor Lily Cheng (Ward 18 – Willowdale)
City of Toronto Staff:
Michael Ellison, Community Recreation Manager
Aine Donnelly, Community Recreation Programmer
Dennis Dametto, Parks Manager (or designate)
We have compiled a list of programs that could be of help to you in re-entering the event space. See the list below for a snapshot of some of the current opportunities that are available for events and festivals.
Canadian History Fund: This fund supports the production of learning material, the organization of learning activities, and the creation or maintenance of networks. Those who can apply include organizations with a focus on Canadian history, civics, or public policy that also have a successful track record of delivering programming nationally, and post-secondary institutions. Please note: activities must have a national, not regional, reach to be eligible.
Commemorate Canada: Provides funding for Canadian non-profit organizations, Canadian business corporations (non-commercial), Canadian educational institutions, Canadian provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous governments. Program favours commemorations and celebrations marking 25th, 50th, 75th, and 100th anniversaries (and increments of 25 years after 100 years). The program provides funding to initiatives that commemorate and celebrate historical figures, places, events, and accomplishments of national significance. Applications can be submitted anytime, although recommended to be submitted at least six months prior to the event.
Film or Video Production Services Tax Credit: Provides production corporations with a tax credit. In order to qualify the production company must be: a taxable Canadian corporation, a taxable foreign-owned corporation, primarily engaged in the activities of a film/video production business, and the production company must be the owner of the production’s copyright. Applications can be submitted anytime. To apply, create a CAVCO account and complete the Official Designee form. It takes roughly 120 business days for applications to gain approval.
* Mel Lastman Square does not accept unsolicited proposals from vendors, artists or performers. If you are interested in being a food vendor at a third-party event, please contact the event directly. Due to confidentiality agreements, we are unable to provide contact information for our event organizers.
Mel Lastman Square is a public square located in North York, Ontario, Canada. Named after Mel Lastman, the former mayor of North York and later the first mayor of the amalgamated City of Toronto, the square is a popular community gathering spot. Situated at the North York Civic Centre, it serves as a hub for various cultural and public events, including concerts, festivals, and seasonal celebrations.
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