Toronto is one of the most diverse and welcoming cities in Canada and the world. Each year, countless immigrants, refugees, and international students make Toronto their home. To welcome and celebrate its newcomer residents, the city hosts a Newcomer Day – a vibrant event with cultural performances, diverse cuisines, an information fair, and more!
This year’s 11th annual Toronto Newcomer Day is set to take place in the heart of the city, at Nathan Phillips Square on Wednesday, May 28.
The event brings together sponsors and a wide range of community organizations that participate in the information fair, food stalls, and interactive activities. This collaborative approach has strengthened the city’s ability to connect newcomers with valuable resources that will ease their settlement journey.
Here’s what to expect at Toronto Newcomer Day 2025
What to do
At Toronto Newcomer Day 2025, over 100 organizations will host booths, offering newcomers easy access to free and low-cost programs and services, including career guidance, healthcare, language training, mentorship, finances, education, faith, arts and culture, and youth services.
Representatives from the City of Toronto and agencies that support immigrant communities, refugees, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals will also be present at the information fair. Take your time exploring the booths, and don’t hesitate to ask questions along the way!
There’s also a series of cultural events that you can register for or drop in at. At the City Hall Rotunda, for instance, visitors can visit the Breaking Boundaries: Newcomer Art Exhibit. The exhibit will showcase the powerful voices of newcomers who question existing systems, like cultural norms or political structures, and are redefining artistic and social landscapes with their art. You can also enjoy live cultural performances by indigenous, African, and Brazilian artists.
Among the registered events, visitors will have a chance to take part in guided tours, including one of the newly opened Spirit Garden in the southwest corner of Nathan Phillips Square. Learn about the permanent space and its significance that is designed to honour residential school survivors and diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural traditions.
Or explore the diverse neighbourhood that once stood where Nathan Phillips Square and City Hall stand today, with a HistoricTO Guided Neighbourhood Tour, led by Toronto History Museums staff.
Apart from that, there are plenty of activities for adults and children. Participate in sports at the interactive Play Mobile booth, get a beautiful henna design on your hand, or Spin the Wheel and learn interesting facts about your local government.
What to buy and eat
Several newcomer-run businesses will set up stalls offering unique items that are intimately connected to their cultures and traditions. Buying from the Newcomer Marketplace helps these local businesses grow, and is a great way for you to form connections with business owners that will last a lifetime.
The Newcomer Food Fair also offers a rich, cultural experience, featuring dishes lovingly prepared by newcomers who have launched their own food businesses. Supporting them through your purchases helps these businesses thrive and share their heritage with the broader community.
Parked just outside Nathan Phillips Square at Toronto Newcomer Day 2025 are several food trucks offering traditional Canadian fare – always popular with everyone – such as hot dogs, fries, ice cream, and pop.
With famed Canadian coffee chain Tim Hortons being an official sponsor of the event, head to their iconic red-and-white branded truck to grab free drinks on the day.
Also watch: Toronto Newcomer Day 2021 artists share their story
What to see
An integral part of the annual event is the citizenship ceremony, where immigrants mark another major milestone towards building their lives in Canada. It’s quite a heartfelt occasion, complete with an oath, an inspiring speech, and the national anthem.
The New Canadians team will be at Toronto Newcomer Day. Come, say hi!
We’re an official media partner of Toronto Newcomer Day. “As a newcomer-focused information hub, we value our long-standing partnership with the City of Toronto and the Newcomer Office,” shares Gerard Keledjian, Managing Director, New Canadians TV Network. “We’re thrilled to have supported Toronto Newcomer Day since its inaugural year and contribute to its growth to become a major annual newcomer celebration in the city.”
Our team engages with the attendees and captures all the action. We cherish all those memorable moments when we get to meet our viewers in person. “Especially those who learn about the event through our platforms – while still in their countries of origin – and visit Nathan Phillips Square when they arrive to connect with the event’s resources and organizations,” adds Gerard.
At New Canadians, we help amplify the reach of Toronto Newcomer Day by capturing the voices and stories of newcomers to the city. This content is broadcast through our national TV show and online platforms, reaching audiences across Canada and the world. We offer viewers a glimpse into the day’s celebrations and showcase Toronto’s welcoming spirit to immigrants – those who have arrived and even those planning to make the city their home.
Like every year, New Canadians will have a booth at Toronto Newcomer Day. Do stop by to learn about our offerings to help make your new Canadian journey easier. We will also be publishing related content on our website and social media channels, so make sure you stay tuned!
Toronto Newcomer Day 2025
Wednesday, May 28; 10 am – 3 pm | Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
This is an outdoor event. So, we recommend that you check the weather forecast and come dressed accordingly.
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