TORONTO — The heart of the city pulsed with culture, connection, and celebration as thousands gathered at Nathan Phillips Square on May 28 for the 11th annual Toronto Newcomer Day. The event welcomed newcomers to the city and honoured the vibrant diversity that defines Toronto’s global identity.
Mayor Olivia Chow officially proclaimed May 28 as Newcomer Day in Toronto, and Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina–Fort York) greeted attendees on behalf of City Council.
The day featured a colourful mix of cultural performances, family-friendly activities, food vendors, and over 125 community information booths where residents could connect with city services and organizations focused on newcomer support.
53 people from 25 countries became Canada’s newest citizens at today’s #TOnewcomerDay ceremony. Congratulations to all! pic.twitter.com/zwCLw2ZzTT
— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) May 28, 2025
From Indigenous hoop dancing by Lisa Odjig to high-energy performances by Afronto and Samba Heat, the cultural lineup highlighted the city’s multicultural heartbeat. A special moment unfolded inside Council Chambers where 53 new citizens took their oath during a Citizenship Ceremony hosted by the Government of Canada, with Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport) delivering remarks.
Since its inaugural edition in 2015, Toronto Newcomer Day has grown from 2,000 participants to over 10,000 annually. As one of the first municipalities in Canada to establish such an event, Toronto continues to set the benchmark for inclusive city-building.
This year’s celebration was made possible through support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, along with sponsors including President’s Choice, No Frills & Real Canadian Superstore, Rogers Communications, CIBC, Metrolinx, Tim Hortons, IKEA Canada, and New Canadians TV.
More information about services and future events for newcomers is available at toronto.ca/newcomerday.
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