Toronto's 175th anniversary

Toronto will be celebrating its 175th anniversary in 2009: 175 buildings of architectural, historic, cultural and/or social significance open their doors to the public. Admission is free!

The City of Toronto was incorporated on March 6, 1834, following a significant increase in demand for public services in the former municipality of York. The city was named capital of the new province of Ontario 33 years later.

Prominent journalist and politician William Lyon Mackenzie was chosen as Toronto’s first mayor, representing the fast-growing town of more than 9,000 residents.

Toronto is now Canada’s largest city and home to a diverse population of more than 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. In the past three years, Toronto has won more than 70 awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services.

This will be an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about Toronto’s heritage and to enjoy the diverse local talent that Toronto city is home to today. Museums and historical centres across Toronto will also take part in this celebration of city’s history and culture.

This anniversary will be a time for personal reflection and to celebrate Toronto’s many accomplishments...

I encourage everyone to join in commemorating this significant occasion!