The Scarborough Civic Centre is 50 this year! Join us in celebrating this iconic structure right in the heart of Scarborough.
Ahead of its time and a wonder even today, the Scarborough Civic Centre is one of the most recognizable structures in Toronto. Opened on June 29, 1973, by Queen Elizabeth II, Scarborough Civic Centre is considered an architectural marvel, designed by renowned Canadian architect, the late Raymond Moriyama, who sadly passed away on September 1, 2023, at the age of 93.
The City of Toronto is set to celebrate 50 years of excellence set by the Scarborough Civic Centre, not only for its design, but also for its significance as the “the first totally planned town centre in North America,” built under the visionary leadership of Albert Campbell and carried forward by those that came after him. A place for all to enjoy and belong, Scarborough Civic Centre welcomes everyone in the community to attend this special event.
From your poet laureate –
Oh to be fifty and ready to roll – from the grit and the glory what a legacy to behold, standing beside a grand old Oak, a Civic Centre that spirals with its bold brightness of colours from which we will build leaders for today and for tomorrow.
The Scarborough Civic Centre a gathering place, a circle that radiates in the name of service to community. A beacon aglow in storm or calm weather. An architectural delight, a reflection of democracy that makes us remember how far we’ve come, how much we have done, and so many ways how we begun, and where we all enter. Over a hundred different cultures replanting roots; Indigenous soil. But together we dream, together we toil. And still, we must travel on. Together!
And every day will be another day to try again, to rise again, to hold steady, to triumph and build our caring vision of Scarborough, filled with a bursting energy of hope, prosperity and joyousness.
Sunday, October 1, 2023
1 to 4 p.m. (Official remarks at 1:30 p.m.)
Scarborough Civic Centre – Rotunda and Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Dr., Scarborough M1P 4N7
Enjoy a range of family friendly festivities, including performances by Scarborough’s own Bitter and Broke, the Odin Quartet presented by Scarborough Philharmonic Orchestra, and other acts such as the Nathaniel Dett Chorale, and the Pan Fantasy Steelband. For art lovers, the event will feature The Arts Circle by Kseniya Tsoy that explores Moriyama’s design philosophy for the Scarborough Civic Centre, with the opportunity to create masterpieces you can take home. Also, look out for the City’s Play Mobile on Albert Campbell Square. While you’re there, take a picture at the popular Scarborough sign presented by Scarborough Arts, which will be on location for the day.
