Get Ready!
ST. JAMES TOWN FESTIVAL 2025
September 6, 2025
The 2024 St. James Town Festival, held on September 7, brought together over 1,000 community members despite challenging weather. Under the theme “Greener & Safer: Rebuilding & Reviving Relationships,” the festival showcased vibrant performances, cultural displays, and local talent, highlighting community resilience, equity, sustainability, and decolonization.
Featuring 26 performances, 5 food vendors, 8 artisan vendors, and supported by more than 60 dedicated volunteers, the event was a true celebration of St. James Town’s diversity and strength. Community partners, service providers, and elected officials—including MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam and Councillor Chris Moise—joined the festivities to honor culture, community connections, and local services.
This festival is made possible by the collaborative efforts of the St. James Town Service Providers Network (SJT SPN), community partners, resident co-chairs, and volunteers.
2024 St. James Town Festival Recap
With the weather on our side, beaming with sunlight right up until the last minute of the festival, the day started with tireless set-up work by staff, agency partners, and an army of supportive volunteers. Community members poured in to see the items on display, from food and non-food vendors alike, all whom are residents too, to play in the kids’ area and on the massive inflatable bouncy castle. They also learned about the services on offer by various SPN partners like TNG and TNO, and community stakeholders like Chris Moise, MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, The St. James Town Residents Council, and MP Marci Ien.
About St. James Town
St. James Town is a unique neighbourhood in downtown Toronto, bounded by Jarvis Street (W), Bloor Street East (N), Parliament Street (E), and Wellesley Street East (S). As Canada’s largest high-rise community, it houses approximately 25,000 residents across 20+ residential towers and several low-rise buildings built in the 1960s.
The neighbourhood is renowned for its diversity, with a large population of immigrants, newcomers, seniors, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Its central location offers easy access to downtown job opportunities and excellent public transit, making it a vibrant hub for people building new lives and connections.
Originally a middle-class Victorian neighbourhood in the early 20th century, St. James Town transformed during the 1950s–60s under the “Towers in the Park” concept influenced by modernist planning. Today, it remains one of North America’s densest neighbourhoods and a vital cultural mosaic home to residents from over 50 countries.
What to Expect at the 2025 Festival
The upcoming 2025 St. James Town Festival promises to continue this tradition of community celebration with:
- Live performances featuring music, dance, and cultural showcases
- A community market and diverse food vendors
- Family-friendly activities and creative spaces
- Opportunities to connect with local organizations and volunteers
- Recognition of outstanding community members through Impact Awards
The festival will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. James Avenue & Wellesley Street East, Toronto.
Why the Festival Matters
The St. James Town Festival is more than a celebration—it’s a platform for connection, culture, and community building. Rooted in one of Toronto’s most diverse neighbourhoods, the festival:
- Celebrates Diversity: Showcases traditions and talents from over 50 cultural communities.
- Strengthens Community Bonds: Provides a welcoming space for residents, organizations, and local businesses to connect and collaborate.
- Highlights Local Talent: Offers a stage for performers, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
- Encourages Civic Engagement: Brings together service providers, leaders, and residents to share resources and build awareness.
- Promotes Sustainability & Inclusion: Reflects neighbourhood values of environmental responsibility and belonging.
Volunteers and Collaboration
The success of the St. James Town Festival relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers and community partners. More than 60 volunteers contributed their time and energy in 2024, supporting everything from event setup to workshop facilitation.
This event is a collaborative effort involving:
- The St. James Town Service Providers Network (SJT SPN)
- St. James Town residents
- The Corner
Together, they create an inclusive, vibrant celebration that reflects the spirit of St. James Town.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. When and where is the 2025 St. James Town Festival?
Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. James Avenue & Wellesley Street East, Toronto.
2. How can I register as a vendor, performer, or volunteer?
Register online via our festival webpage, in person at The Corner, or by phone.
3. Is there an entrance fee?
No, the festival is free and open to all community members.
4. What can I expect at the festival?
Live performances, cultural dances, food vendors (Halal, vegetarian, non-vegetarian), community market, children’s activities, and workshops
5. How can I support the festival
Volunteer, spread the word, donate, or become a sponsor. Every contribution helps!
