nuit blanche 2022

Toronto Police shut down a Cinderella carriage right before midnight at Nuit Blanche

While swarms of people took over Toronto's streets this weekend to explore the more than 170 art installations that comprised this year's Nuit Blanche, there was one literally traffic-stopping piece that was cut a little short by the Toronto Police Service.

The "SteamPunkin" was one of the fixtures appearing all over social media on Saturday night, its bright lights, detailed metalwork, thumping music and all-around absurdity being undeniably eye-catching.

But, as popular as the private steampunk-inspired, Cinderella coach drawn by a giant rat was, Toronto police had to intervene with its Nuit Blanche show early into the night for "safety" reasons, as it was interfering with traffic flow on Queen's Quay.

"TBH, we were only asked to move [...] back from our ride offerings, to shift location as the crowd was blocking the intersection. It was purely for safety," the team behind the project later explained.

They added that no actual issues were had with police — as can be seen from an amicable interaction caught on video — and thanked everyone for their ongoing support.

"Please donate to keep #thesteampunkin going strong- even the days we do require a permit," they finished.

Many on socials joked that the cops were being "fun police" and "peak Toronto killjoys" during the all-night celebration of art, which is known for drawing more than a million people each year. It was the biggest yet for 2022, after a two-year hiatus.

Lead photo by

Kris Pangilinan


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