TORONTO — The City of Toronto has officially launched the 2025 Cultural Hotspot program, bringing an energetic season of arts, culture, and community events back to the Jane and Finch neighbourhood. Running through October, this year’s program showcases the creativity, resilience and diversity that define one of Toronto’s most vibrant communities.
Saturday’s launch event, held inside Jane Finch Mall, drew crowds for powerful live performances, traditional food, and community pride. Sponsored by Toronto Pearson and Jane Finch Mall, the celebration marked the beginning of a five-month run of free arts programming designed to engage youth, support local artists and build stronger community connections.
The Cultural Hotspot is an annual initiative that highlights Toronto’s outer neighbourhoods by investing in public art projects, mentorships and workshops. This year’s focus once again returns to Jane and Finch—stretching from Steeles Avenue in the north to Wilson Avenue in the south, and from Weston Road in the west to Keele Street in the east.
From dance workshops and music showcases to storytelling and youth mentorships, this year’s Cultural Hotspot offers something for everyone.
2025 Programming Highlights:
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Jane and Finch Pride Ball (June 22): A full-day celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ pride and local identity, presented by the Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance and PEACH.
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Terra Pulse – The Greenheart Collective (June 28–Oct 31): Eco-arts, digital media and music mentorship for youth, led by Terra Elysium Foundation.
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Digital Impressions: Urban Griots 2.0 (July 14–Aug 25): Children and youth explore Afrofuturism through AR storytelling with AstroSankofa Arts Initiatives.
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Black Creek Community Farm Festival & Market (Ongoing to Oct 31): A monthly showcase blending agriculture and the arts.
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Wheel It Studios VOL. 7 (Sept 4–5): A youth-led music and marketing lab hosted by New Tradition Music.
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Flaunt It x Corner Commons Festival (Sept 19–20): A women- and gender-diverse-led artist market and community event by the Flaunt It Movement.
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Invitations to Better Worlds (September): A storytelling and artist residency project led by Jane Finch Community and Family Centre.
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Let’s Dance at Downsview Park (Sept–Oct): Free outdoor dance workshops presented by North York Arts.
The Cultural Hotspot program is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive local economic development and community pride through arts and culture. The 2025 edition is supported by media sponsors FLOW 98.7, Toronto Star and NOW Toronto.
For full program details and event listings, visit toronto.ca/culturalhotspot.
Stay tuned to GTA Weekly for more local arts and culture stories. Follow @GTAWeeklyNews on social media.
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