Toronto officials deny claims that Sankofa Square events are in jeopardy

A new city report shows that events at Toronto's Sankofa Square dropped significantly in 2025, citing limited issuance of event permits.

City officials say the nearly 70 per cent decline — from 71 events in 2024 to just 22 — was expected as 2025 was treated as a year to pivot.

"While 2025 was a transition year as we focused on the Square's rebrand and the development of our new five-year strategic plan, we are already seeing incredible momentum for 2026," Marnie Grona, Interim General Manager of Sankofa Square, tells blogTO.

The decline hit city finances hard, with event permit revenue plunging from $275,000 to just $87,000, well below the city's original 2025 projection of $170,000.

So, what's the bounce-back plan?

"We aren't just looking to bounce back; we are looking to set a new pace. We currently have 172 event days confirmed for 2026," Grona says. That figure already exceeds the entirety of 2025 by 25 per cent and puts Sankofa Square on track to achieve its long-term goal of surpassing 200 days of activity each year.

The decline in event activations at Sankofa Square in 2025 has largely been attributed to frequent protests at the site and the economic impact of U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies. However, Grona says the city welcomes and expects peaceful protests at the square.

"Sankofa Square is located at the busiest intersection in the country, and as a public space, it will always be a place where Toronto residents exercise their Charter rights. We respect that role. We see this civic engagement as a core part of what a public square is for," she says.

She adds that for many event planners, protests are not a major concern, noting that the city remains in constant communication with both gathering groups and clients to ensure events can run smoothly.

The city is focusing on consistent programming, the return of local favourites, and capitalizing on the World Cup to deliver high-quality events for Toronto residents while setting new standards for the space.

“People can expect lunchtime activities, markets, and music performances,” Grona says. She adds that soccer-related activations and fan experiences are already being added to the calendar. Events such as Winter Glow, Sankofa Day, and movie nights are also returning this year.

"We believe attendance follows consistency. By establishing a more regular rhythm of activity, ensuring there is something happening on a frequent and predictable basis, we create a destination for people who are just passing through or looking for a reason to visit downtown," she concludes.

Sankofa Square kicked off its 2026 event calendar with DesignTO S.A.D. exhibition, featuring the photography of Chinese-Canadian artist Steven Beckley displayed on digital screens in the square.