Toronto is one of the most popular destinations for newcomers from around the world, who arrive here to build new lives. The city also welcomes and celebrates its immigrant communities through a range of events, most notably the annual Toronto Newcomer Day.
Now in its 12th year, Toronto Newcomer Day 2026 will be hosted by the City of Toronto at Nathan Phillips Square on May 29. Admission is free!
“The City of Toronto is proud to host the 12th annual Toronto Newcomer Day — a powerful city-building event, demonstrating the City’s commitment to welcoming newcomers to Toronto,” says Alison Stanley, Manager, City of Toronto Newcomer Office. “Bringing City and community services together with interactive activities and performances for a fun, engaging event creates a one-stop shop for newcomers to Toronto to learn about the municipal government and services available across Toronto to support their successful settlement. If you are new to Toronto, we want to send a clear message through Toronto Newcomer Day: Welcome to Toronto! We are happy you are here,” she adds.
New Canadians TV Network is also proud to once again serve as 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. We’re thrilled to continue supporting Toronto Newcomer Day,” says Gerard Keledjian, Managing Director, New Canadians TV Network.
On May 29, discover local resources and newcomer-focused information
One of the highlights of Toronto Newcomer Day is the Information Fair, where more than 100 organizations will share programs and services designed to help newcomers settle and thrive in the city. Visitors can connect with government agencies, settlement and refugee organizations, educational institutions, Francophone organizations, and community support groups.
It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, discover local resources and learn about services related to employment, language training, housing, healthcare and community life.
Shop and eat from immigrant-owned businesses
The Newcomer Marketplace will feature entrepreneurs selling handmade goods, crafts and original artwork inspired by their cultures and experiences.
And, the Food Fair will include newcomer-owned food trucks and community caterers, offering flavours from around the world right in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Experience culture, creativity and community
Throughout the day, Nathan Phillips Square will come alive with performances, art and interactive activities celebrating diverse cultures and global traditions.
Besides programming on the Main Stage — opening by an Indigenous Elder, performances from the Buffalo Charging Drummers and artists including Juno Award-winner Tom Wilson, Bahar Atish and Massyr Ensemble — visitors can also enjoy roaming performers through the Performance Caravan.
Art and storytelling installations will be featured across the event grounds, including the Stories of Belonging exhibit, which invites visitors to reflect on newcomer experiences through collaborative artwork and personal stories. The Woodland Cultural Centre Orange Shirt Project will also be on display, sharing messages of hope, identity and connection created by newcomers and Residential School survivors.
Newcomer artists can also connect with mentors from Toronto Arts Foundation for portfolio reviews, career advice and artistic guidance.
Explore guided activities and hands-on experiences
The guided experiences and neighbourhood tours are a popular highlight each year, with spots filling up quickly as attendees take the opportunity to learn more about Toronto’s history, architecture and Indigenous cultures.
At the Spirit Garden’s Teaching Lodge, Indigenous teachings led by elders and knowledge keepers from Toronto Council Fire will share stories, traditions and perspectives in an intimate and welcoming setting.
Throughout the venue, drop-in activities for people of all ages include henna body art, interactive sports via Play Mobile, a migration map for visitors to pin their place of origin, and a sacred fire experience led by Indigenous Fire-Keepers.
Team New Canadians will be there, too. Come, say hello!
Our team at New Canadians TV Network will be on-site throughout the day, connecting with attendees, sharing stories and capturing the highlights. Be sure to stop by our booth to learn more about the programs, stories and resources we offer to help newcomers navigate life in Canada.
Since this is an outdoor event, don’t forget to check the forecast and dress for the weather before heading downtown.
Watch our coverage of last year’s Toronto Newcomer Day below.
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