Sankofa Square, Toronto - Cityscape with autumn trees and tall buildings.
1 / 10

Sankofa Square Toronto

4.5
·21k reviews·Toronto, Canada

A bustling public square and event venue in downtown Toronto, known for its vibrant energy and cultural significance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Sankofa Square, Toronto - Cityscape with autumn trees and tall buildings.

Sankofa Square Toronto

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling public square and event venue in downtown Toronto, known for its vibrant energy and cultural significance.

4.5
(21k reviews)

"Toronto is a vibe at night, especially at Sankofa Square! TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Vibe

Great spot for photos, especially at night when the lights come alive!

🗣️ Locals Still Say YDS

Don't be surprised if you hear 'Yonge-Dundas Square.' The name change is recent!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Heart of Downtown Toronto

The Heart of Downtown Toronto

Center of the square

A dynamic public space buzzing with energy, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city's pulse.

TikTok
Live Events & Entertainment

Live Events & Entertainment

Main stage area

Catch free concerts, outdoor movie screenings, and vibrant community festivals throughout the year.

TikTok
Iconic City Views

Iconic City Views

Surrounding buildings

Surrounded by iconic Toronto landmarks, offering great photo opportunities and a sense of urban grandeur.

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the New Name, Understand the History

Sankofa Square, formerly Yonge-Dundas Square, is a vibrant hub. While many locals still use the old name, understanding the significance of 'Sankofa' – a Ghanaian concept of looking back to move forward – adds depth to your visit. The renaming honors a history of healing and remembrance. TikTok+1

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

This bustling square is a magnet for events and crowds. To truly enjoy its energy without feeling overwhelmed, plan your visit around specific events or aim for off-peak hours. Check local listings for concerts, movie nights, or community gatherings to make the most of your trip. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Event-filled, lively energy
Crowd
High
When
During special events
Why
Unique cultural experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Toronto is a vibe at night ✨ 📍 Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) #toronto #views #torontolife #fyp
@torontogirlsblog
260.4K likes • 2.4M views

📸 Capture the Vibe

Great spot for photos, especially at night when the lights come alive! TikTok+1

🗣️ Locals Still Say YDS

Don't be surprised if you hear 'Yonge-Dundas Square.' The name change is recent! Reddit

What a beautiful day! Ghana was well represented in a historic day in Toronto Canada …. The inauguration of Sankofa Square #gcao🇨🇦🇬🇭 #gcaocanada #ghanadiasporainitiative #ghanaiancanadian #toronto
@gcaocan
55.9K likes • 417.4K views
This is Toronto but… here’s the perfect 10-stop itinerary for your first time. From iconic landmarks to hidden views 🤩🇨🇦 Save this for your next trip or send it to someone planning to visit this summe...
@erhunabbasli
28.6K likes • 455.3K views

🛍️ Shopping & Dining Hub

Plenty of shops and restaurants nearby for a full day out. TikTok

🎟️ Consider CityPASS

If visiting multiple attractions, the CityPASS can save you money. TikTok

Canada to rename Dundas street to Sankofa street #ghana #foryou #canada #dundassquare #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #ghanatiktokers #fyp
@obibinibatvgh
24.9K likes • 354.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Vibe

Great spot for photos, especially at night when the lights come alive! TikTok+1

🗣️ Locals Still Say YDS

Don't be surprised if you hear 'Yonge-Dundas Square.' The name change is recent! Reddit

🛍️ Shopping & Dining Hub

Plenty of shops and restaurants nearby for a full day out. TikTok

🎟️ Consider CityPASS

If visiting multiple attractions, the CityPASS can save you money. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Area

It's a central point for exploring other downtown Toronto attractions. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sankofa Square is celebrated as a lively and dynamic heart of downtown Toronto, praised for its vibrant atmosphere, frequent events, and central location. While many appreciate its energy and the significance of its renaming, some visitors note that it can get very crowded, and the constant activity might feel overwhelming at times. TikTok+1

"😀 " I don't like the young and Dundas square of Toronto"

Said no one ever

🏙️ This ornament and special landmark of our city is not just some place where you can skateboard around and get called out from the security guards.

No...

🌎 It's culture, it's the people, it's the food, music, festivals, kindness, Community.

🌆😄 There's always amazing festivals, music, street performers and in the summertime, this water dispensary thing. The festivals are deliciously great and immersible. 💃🏻The people that crowd around make up the place 100 times more amazing than it is when there's no one. 😆

🙃 Even when there's nothing going on, the cool awesome advertisements on those big towers will surely entertain you. It's a great place to hang out with friends and an even better place to sleep if you're homeless. 🌝

🏠 It's like a home away from home.

❤️❤️❤️"

Elliot Schembri

"Sankofa Square is an absolutely vibrant and inspiring place in the heart of downtown. From the moment you arrive, you can feel the energy and passion that has gone into creating this unique cultural space. It’s more than just a physical location—it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and expression. The live performances and events bring a sense of excitement and togetherness that’s hard to find elsewhere. The design of the square is both attractive and meaningful, with art, music, and storytelling woven into every corner. You can see and feel the life here—people connecting, sharing, and enjoying the moment. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Sankofa Square leaves a lasting impression. It’s a wonderful destination that invites you to not just observe but truly experience culture in motion. A must-see for anyone who wants to witness the spirit of the city come"

Samrand Chalak

"Famous intersection in downtown Toronto with lots of digital billboards, and events in the summer. There's a convenient parking lot right beneath the intersection. It is also located immediately adjacent to Eaton Center.

I'll continue to call it Yonge-Dundas square despite the name change."

Allan C

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Free events
Central location

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Very busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sankofa Square is easily accessible via Toronto's public transit system. The closest subway station is Dundas Station on Line 1 (Yonge-University). From the station, it's a short walk. Many bus routes also stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging and expensive in this busy downtown area. TikTok+1

Yes, Sankofa Square is very well-served by public transport. Dundas Station on the TTC subway line is directly connected, and numerous streetcar and bus routes pass through or stop adjacent to the square. TikTok

From Pearson International Airport (YYZ), the most efficient way is to take the UP Express train to Union Station in downtown Toronto. From Union Station, you can transfer to the TTC subway (Line 1) northbound to Dundas Station, which is a short walk from Sankofa Square. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of Sankofa Square, but they can be quite expensive, especially during peak hours or events. It's often more convenient and cost-effective to use public transit. TikTok

Depending on your starting point, Sankofa Square is within walking distance of many downtown attractions like the Eaton Centre, Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), and the Art Gallery of Ontario. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Sankofa Square is a public space and entry is free. You do not need tickets to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. TikTok

There are no admission fees to enter Sankofa Square itself. However, any specific ticketed events or attractions within or around the square would have their own separate costs. TikTok

Sankofa Square is generally accessible 24/7 as a public space. However, specific event programming will have its own set hours. It's best to check the official schedule for any planned activities. TikTok

While you can't book events directly for personal use at the square, you can find information on upcoming public events and performances on various Toronto event listings and the square's official channels. TikTok

The Toronto CityPASS typically includes admission to major attractions like the CN Tower, Casa Loma, and Ripley's Aquarium. Sankofa Square itself is a free public space, so the CityPASS doesn't directly apply to entry here, but it can be useful for other nearby attractions you might visit. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Sankofa Square is a hub for entertainment and activity. You can enjoy live music, outdoor movie screenings, community festivals, street performers, and simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It's also surrounded by shops and restaurants. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Sankofa Square offers a dynamic backdrop for photography, especially at night when the lights and digital billboards create a lively urban scene. The surrounding architecture also provides interesting angles. TikTok+1

A wide variety of events take place, including concerts, cultural festivals, holiday celebrations, movie nights, and promotional events. It's a versatile venue for public gatherings. TikTok

Public restrooms are typically available in the vicinity of Sankofa Square, often within nearby shopping centers like the Toronto Eaton Centre or other public facilities. It's advisable to check signage upon arrival. TikTok

The square was renamed from Yonge-Dundas Square to Sankofa Square to acknowledge and address the historical legacy of Henry Dundas, who delayed the abolition of the slave trade. 'Sankofa' is a Ghanaian concept meaning 'to go back and get it,' symbolizing learning from the past. TikTok+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Sankofa Square itself is primarily an event space, it is surrounded by a vast array of dining options. You'll find everything from fast food and casual eateries to sit-down restaurants catering to diverse tastes. TikTok

The area around Sankofa Square offers a culinary tour of Toronto. You can find international cuisine, Canadian favorites, fast-casual spots, and cafes. Don't miss trying local specialties like Jamaican patties or Trini doubles. Reddit

Yes, there are many affordable food options, including fast-food chains, food courts within nearby malls like the Toronto Eaton Centre, and smaller eateries offering quick bites. TikTok

As a public square, you can generally bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of any specific event rules or to clean up after yourself. TikTok

Near Sankofa Square, you can find iconic Toronto foods like peameal bacon sandwiches, diverse ethnic cuisines (especially Caribbean and South Asian), and classic diner fare. Jamaican patties and Trini doubles are highly recommended by locals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo spots include the central plaza with its dynamic billboards, the surrounding architecture, and the general street life. At night, the square transforms into a vibrant canvas of lights, making it ideal for urban photography. TikTok+1

Yes, Sankofa Square is excellent for night photography. The numerous digital screens, bright lights, and bustling atmosphere create a visually striking urban environment. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the square and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the surrounding buildings. A tripod can help with low-light shots at night. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, professional photography or videography may require permits, especially if it involves extensive equipment or blocking public access. It's always best to check with local authorities if you're unsure. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful natural light. However, for the iconic vibrant, illuminated look, dusk and nighttime are ideal. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sankofa Square is a lively spot that can be fun for families, especially when there are specific family-friendly events like festivals or outdoor movie nights. The open space allows kids to move around, and the surrounding area offers plenty of dining options. TikTok Consider visiting during the day or early evening to avoid the largest crowds. The nearby Toronto Eaton Centre also provides indoor activities and food courts if you need a break from the outdoor bustle. TikTok

While the square itself doesn't have dedicated play areas, its central location means you're close to other family attractions. The CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium are popular choices, and the Toronto CityPASS can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple ticketed attractions. TikTok Keep an eye on the square's event schedule for specific family-oriented programming. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Sankofa Square is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as it's a free public space. You can enjoy the atmosphere, watch street performers, and experience the city's energy without spending a dime. TikTok Many events held here, like concerts and movie nights, are also free to attend. TikTok

To save money on food, explore the numerous fast-food options and food courts in nearby shopping centers like the Toronto Eaton Centre. TikTok For transportation, utilizing Toronto's TTC public transit system is the most economical way to reach the square. If you plan on visiting multiple paid attractions, researching options like the Toronto CityPASS might offer some savings, though it's not directly applicable to Sankofa Square itself. TikTok

couples

Sankofa Square offers a vibrant setting for couples looking to experience Toronto's urban pulse. Enjoy a stroll through the bustling square, especially in the evening when the lights create a romantic ambiance. TikTok Catching a free outdoor movie screening or a live music performance can be a fun and affordable date activity. TikTok

Combine your visit with dinner at one of the many diverse restaurants surrounding the square, offering options for every taste and budget. Reddit The area is also a great starting point for exploring other downtown Toronto attractions, making it easy to plan a full evening or day out together. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Renaming of Yonge-Dundas Square to Sankofa Square

The transformation of Yonge-Dundas Square to Sankofa Square is a significant cultural and historical moment for Toronto. The renaming was a deliberate act to address the legacy of Henry Dundas, a Scottish politician whose actions significantly delayed the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. TikTok+1 The name 'Sankofa' itself is deeply meaningful, originating from the Akan people of Ghana. It represents the principle of learning from the past to build a better future – 'se wo were fi na wosankofa a yenkyi,' which translates to 'it is not taboo to fetch what is being sought.' TikTok

This renaming is more than just a change of name; it's a step towards reconciliation and a more inclusive representation of history within the city. It acknowledges the pain caused by historical figures and seeks to create public spaces that honor diverse narratives. The inauguration ceremony in August 2025 marked a new chapter, emphasizing healing, remembrance, and hope. TikTok Visitors can reflect on this historical context as they experience the vibrant energy of the square. TikTok

While the official name is now Sankofa Square, many long-time Torontonians may still refer to it by its former name, Yonge-Dundas Square. This is a common phenomenon with significant place name changes. Understanding both names and the history behind the transition enriches the visitor's experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the city's evolving identity. TikTokReddit

Experiencing Sankofa Square: Events and Atmosphere

Sankofa Square is renowned for its dynamic atmosphere, serving as a central hub for entertainment and community gatherings in downtown Toronto. Throughout the year, the square hosts a diverse range of events, from live concerts and music festivals to outdoor movie screenings and cultural celebrations. TikTok Its large open space and prominent digital billboards make it an ideal venue for both large-scale public events and spontaneous street performances. The energy here is palpable, especially during peak times and special occasions. TikTok

When planning your visit, checking the local event listings for Sankofa Square is highly recommended. This will allow you to align your trip with specific concerts, festivals, or seasonal activities that pique your interest. Whether it's a summer movie night under the stars or a festive holiday market, these events offer a unique glimpse into Toronto's vibrant cultural scene. TikTok Even without a specific event, the square is a lively place to people-watch, enjoy street performers, and soak in the bustling urban environment. TikTok+1

The square's location also makes it a convenient starting point for exploring other downtown attractions. It's surrounded by numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, allowing for a full day of urban exploration. The combination of its event programming and central location makes Sankofa Square a must-visit destination for experiencing the heart of Toronto. TikTok+1

You may also like

1 of 2