Mel Lastman Square

Beneath the imposing North York Civic Centre, lies Mel Lastman Square. It’s more than just concrete and trees. It’s a stage where the city’s heartbeat echoes. Mel Lastman Square officially opened its arms to the community on June 16, 1989. The ceremony was a grand affair, orchestrated by the renowned filmmaker Norman Jewison and graced by Mel Lastman’s granddaughter, Brie Lastman. This vibrant square is named after the former mayor of North York, later the first mayor of the amalgamated City of Toronto. Mel Lastman Square wasn’t always a bustling hub. It was once a vast, empty grassy field, stretching 500 feet deep. Architect J. Michael Kirkland transformed this barren expanse into the heart of North York. He envisioned a granite oasis, but budget constraints led to the concrete landscape we see today. Mel Lastman Square is nestled between Yonge Street and several significant landmarks. These include the Toronto District School Board headquarters, North York Civic Centre, and North York Central Library. The square’s sunken design offers a tranquil escape from the city’s relentless pace. The centerpiece of Mel Lastman Square is a large pond. This pond transforms into a glistening skating rink in winter. An artificial stream flows from a fountain under a large sign on Yonge Street, meandering through the square. Trees, shrubs, and wooden benches dot the area, inviting visitors to pause and soak in the atmosphere. Mel Lastman Square is not just a place of tranquility. It’s a vibrant venue for a multitude of events. The square boasts an outdoor theatre, home to the popular Sunday Serenades jazz concerts each summer. The RBC Run for the Kids, farmers’ markets, cultural festivals, and Canada Day festivities also grace this versatile space. A poignant addition to Mel Lastman Square is a piano, donated by the family of a victim of the Toronto van attack in April 2019. It sits under the rotunda, a symbol of resilience and remembrance. Mel Lastman Square is more than just a square. It’s a reflection of the city’s spirit, a testament to its vibrant past and promising future.