For 10 days from January 24 – Feb 2, 2025 Toronto will be buzzing with energy and innovation. The DesignTO Festival celebrates design as a multidisciplinary form of creative thinking and making. People come to explore, learn, and get inspired through architectural tours, craft and design exhibitions, window installations, thought-provoking talks, and other unique experiences.

The Yonge + St. Clair BIA is a proud sponsor of the Festival, and will host 7 large-scale art installations in various highrise office lobbies and multiple guided walking tours across the neighbourhood, including one led by the artists. Installations include original and sponsored works designed and constructed by locally-based artists.

A special thanks to our site sponsors who have invested additional resources to ensure these art installations are larger than life: JLL, ChoiceREIT, Desjardins.

Use the map below to find all the festival programming, and click the links below for more information.

INSTALLATIONS

1 – ‘The Archivist’ by Pixel Heller and MCA Gallery (📍 22 St. Clair E)

2 – ‘Narcissus Falls’ by Land Art Design (📍 2 St. Clair W)

3 – Yes, And by Gensler (📍 30 St. Clair W)

4 – Tangled Paths by Nargiza Usmanova, NUMZ Graphics (📍 40 Delisle Ave)

5 – Bubble Quilt by Studio Rat (📍 55 St. Clair W)

6 – ‘Homing (Pigeon Store)’ by Maddy Young, and MCA Gallery (📍 95 St. Clair W)

7 – ‘Beyond the Body’ by Pixel Heller, and MCA Gallery (📍 95 St. Clair W)

Guided Walking Tours  

8 – DesignTO Tours: Dualities  This walking tour invites you to take a closer look at three temporary artworks with firsthand insight from the artists and designers behind the projects, delve deeper into the site-specific installations, their stories, and how they came to be. (Saturday February 2, 2025 2:00pm – 3:00pm, starting at 2 St. Clair West). RSVP Here.

9 – Yonge + St. Clair Guided Walking Tours  This series of six (6), 45-minute long walking tours are expertly led by our resident Cultural + Urbanism Ambassador. Each tour will take groups to 3 art installations while also providing deeper insight into the architectural and historical elements of Yonge + St. Clair.

When you sign up to attend a tour you will automatically be entered for a chance to win A DINNER FOR 2 AT ONE OF OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS. Applicants must complete a sign up form and attend a tour to be eligible.

Sign up for dates below when links become available:

Tour 1: Saturday, January 25th 2-3 p.m. RSVP Here.

Tour 2: Sunday, January 26th, 2-3 p.m. RSVP Here.

Tour 3: Tuesday, January 28th, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. RSVP Here.

Tour 4: Thursday, January 30th, 2-3 p.m. RSVP Here.

Behind the Scenes

Many of the artworks hosted at Yonge + St. Clair are all-new and original pieces that are being unveiled for the first time on January 24th. To keep your interest piqued, some of the artists have generously documented and shared images of their behind-the-scenes work below!

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors and Collaborators

Use #DesignTO and #YongeStClair when you share your photos, and we’ll feature them on our socials.

The Toronto Gingerbread Festival is back and sweeter than ever! This year’s festival will run from December 3-10, 2024. The week-long Gingerbread Festival will be unveiling 16 professionally-designed gingerbread houses at select storefront windows across Yonge + St. Clair, crafted by our resident gingerbread architect, Lisa Phillips, who has created edible architecture for A-List celebs and major retail displays.

The beloved annual event, presented by the Yonge + St. Clair Business Improvement Area (BIA), is set to transform the neighbourhood into a magical gingerbread wonderland. In addition to the professionally crafted gingerbread displays in storefront windows, come attend the launch event, get complimentary gift wrapping with proof of purchase, enjoy seven nights of musical pop-ups in local shops + eateries, and a weekend holiday block party at Fairgrounds + more!

To attend – save the schedule below and RSVP to all the programs following the links on this page.

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Dec 3 – Dec 10 | Explore Gingerbread Lane: Discover 16 stunning gingerbread houses professionally-designed gingerbread houses at select storefront windows across Yonge + St. Clair, crafted by our resident gingerbread architect, Lisa Phillips, who has created edible architecture for A-List celebs and major retail displays! Vote for your favourite to enter a raffle for a $100 gift card (3 winners) either by visiting 2 St. Clair West to enter by ballot.

Dec 3 – Dec 10 | Free Professional Gift-Wrapping |📍At the public lobby of 2 St. Clair West Daily, 12PM -2PM and 5PM – 7PM : Spend $20 at any Yonge + St. Clair business, restaurant or service and bring any item to be professionally gift-wrapped at 2 St. Clair West from 12PM – 2PM or 5PM – 7PM Daily. Your item does not have to be purchased locally. Your item can be up to 2ft x 2ft x 1ft in size. Walk-ins are welcome. Or book your gift-wrapping timeslot below

Dec 3 – Dec 10 | Office vs Office Gingerbread Competition |📍At the public lobby of 2 St. Clair West Daily 9AM – 6PM. Vote for your favourite office-created gingerbread houses to enter a raffle for a $100 gift card. See the displays at 2 St. Clair West to enter by ballot.

Dec 4 – Dec 10 | Musician Pop-Ups across Yonge + St. Clair, Gingerbread Music Series, 5PM – 7PM
Pop-up live musicians at select shops and restaurants every day. Simply show up to attend at all 7 locations. Save the dates:

MUSICIAN SCHEDULE + LOCATIONS

Dec 4, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM| 📍Grandma Loves You – 40 St. Clair West | Cuban Jazz with Pablo Terry & Sol De Cuba

Two shows, one night! Dec 5, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍 Paperboy Cards & Gifts – 7 Pleasant Blvd | Violinist, Natalie Wong

Two shows, one night! Dec 5, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍Mary Be Kitchen – 21B St. Clair West | Brass and Keyboard, Sean & Eric

Dec 6, 2024 |5PM – 7PM | 📍Gatherings Restobar | Classic Rock + Covers, The Copy Cats

Dec 7, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍Ambiyan on Yonge, 1560 Yonge Street Ground Floor Courtyard | Guitar and Vocals, Michel Dequevedo

Dec 8, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍Union Social, 21 St. Clair West | Upbeat Busking Band, Maple Noyz

Dec 9, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍Zelden’s Deli and Desserts, 1446 Yonge Street | Classic 50s and 60s and Roots Rock, Bonnie Memphis

Dec 10, 2024 | 5PM – 7PM | 📍St. Clair Greetings 1421 Yonge Street | Guitar and Vocals, Michel Dequevedo

Dec 7 | Free Padel / Pickleball at Fairgrounds Rosehill, 12PM – 6PM📍1375 Yonge Street Gingerbread Festival Holiday Block Party @ Fairgrounds (One Day Only!):  Don’t miss the FREE PADEL session and grand celebration at the heated Fairgrounds Pickleball Court with more goodies and programs —the perfect way to wrap up your Gingerbread Lane adventure!

Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the season at the Toronto Gingerbread Festival. Click the map below to download to your device. Let’s make this the sweetest holiday yet! ✨

FESTIVAL MAP
Click Map to Download

Follow us on Instagram or email info@yongestclair.ca if you have any questions! Or download the printable event flyer.

Are you ready to lead a dynamic team, champion community interests, and shape the future of Toronto’s urban landscape? The Yonge + St. Clair BIA is seeking an Executive Director who is passionate about driving strategic change, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact. If this sounds like you, we invite you to explore the opportunity and apply today!

Job Description:

Reporting to the Yonge + St. Clair Board of Management through the Chair of the Board, the Executive Director is responsible for helping to develop and successfully execute the Yonge + St. Clair BIA’s strategic plan. This includes acting upon the motions of the board and of the advisement of the BIA Chair.

This position plays a critical role in developing the BIA, providing expert leadership to drive community initiatives, streetscape and economic development improvements, execution of programs, event and project management, communications and stakeholder relationships including forming productive coalitions, all in support of the BIA Board of Management.

Full Time
Salary starting at: $86K, commensurate on experience

Leadership:

• Strategic Direction: Set and communicate the long-term vision of the BIA, working closely with the Board of Directors to establish and implement a strategic plan that enhances the area’s economic vitality and community engagement. 
• Daily Team Management: Lead daily team meetings to ensure all projects are progressing smoothly, addressing any operational or interpersonal challenges to maintain momentum. 
• Team Guidance: Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Develop, and foster top talent to ensure the team is aligned with the BIA’s goals.

Innovation:

• Innovative Approaches: Identify and implement innovative programs (events, marketing, BIA-specific administration standards, streetscape) that enhance the BIA’s competitiveness and promote urban revitalization. Stay ahead of trends in community engagement, community advocacy and urban development.

Strategic Planning:

• Governance: Collaborate with the Board to manage all governance matters, implementing internal controls, project and staff work plans, and strategic initiatives that align with the BIA’s mission. 
• Opportunity and Risk Management: Proactively identify, monitor and capitalize on opportunities (i.e. strategic initiatives, grants, public engagements) and foresee risks or crises to protect the best interests of the BIA. Lead the BIA through change and ensure resilience in the face of challenges. 
• Financial Stewardship and Accuracy: Oversee budget management, interpret financial reports, and provide expert recommendations to the Board. Ensure transparency, timeliness and accountability in financial decision-making.

Engagement:

• Stakeholder Strategy: Develop and maintain a comprehensive engagement strategy to ensure that Board members, business owners, local residents, and city officials are informed, involved, and invested in the BIA’s initiatives. 
• Advocacy: Lead local advocacy efforts and build coalitions to effectively represent the BIA’s strategic interests within the community. Act as the primary ambassador for the BIA, representing its interests in public forums and negotiations. 
• Partnerships and Communications: Cultivate strong relationships with City officials, local businesses, community organizations, and other BIAs. 

Communications:

• Community Outreach: Foster strong relationships with BIA members, encouraging participation and open dialogue. Engage in regular communication with stakeholders to support the BIA’s strategic plan and community ties. 
• Public Relations Strategy: Develop and execute public relations plans, including media coverage, content creation, and distribution of press releases and news alerts to promote the BIA’s initiatives.

Management:

• Innovative Marketing:  Lead the exploration and implementation of new marketing initiatives in collaboration with the Marketing/Events Committee, positioning the BIA as a vibrant, local destination that resonates with the community while remaining open to opportunities for broader appeal. 
• Event Planning: Plan, promote, and execute events that align with the BIA’s goals, ensure compliance with relevant regulations and ensure valuable participation from local businesses and members. 
• Streetscape Strategy: Champion the BIA’s streetscape strategy, ensuring that the area’s physical environment aligns with the community’s vision and enhances its appeal. 

• Capital Projects: Oversee the submission and execution of capital cost-share requests, collaborating with the Streetscape Committee and the City of Toronto to implement streetscape initiatives.

Qualifications

+ University degree in Commerce, Urban Planning, Business, Government Relations, or a related field, or equivalent experience in similar sectors.

+ Proven management experience in business, non-profit, or municipal organizations, with a focus on driving change and executing strategic initiatives.

+ Previous experience with Business Improvement Areas (BIA) is a strong asset.

+ Demonstrated success in implementing change and leading initiatives with measurable outcomes.

+ Solid understanding of contemporary leadership and management principles.

+ Experience working with municipal government structures and processes is an asset.

+ Professional experience working directly with small businesses, fostering strong community and business relationships.

+ Experience with budgeting and financial reporting is advantageous.

+ Experience organizing and managing large-scale public events is preferred.

+ Proficiency in digital and traditional marketing strategies, including social media marketing and communications.

+ Self-starter with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.

+ Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills, with a focus on effective stakeholder engagement.

+ Proficient in Google Suite and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 

Join Us: 

Interested candidates should email their cover letter and resume with the subject line “Executive Director + (Your Full Name)” to info@yongestclair.ca no later than 5:00 PM EST on September 18, 2024

For a limited time only from Aug 13 – Aug 15, a pop-up vintage, local and handmade market opens at Yonge + St. Clair!

From 5PM – 8PM, come shop, peruse and discover a collaborative market between Yonge + St. Clair merchants and Toronto-based indie vintage shops as we convert a parking lot into a fun retail experience!

With 10 stalls of retail goodies each day, don’t miss out on original and rare finds!

Located at 1501 Yonge Street, invite your friends, coworkers, family and pets to this summertime pop-up.

Looking to grab a bite after you shop? Explore local eateries just a short walk away from the Midtown Market. Talk to on-site staff for directions and recommendations.
Please note: Restaurant operating hours may vary, see in-store or check online for respective store hours.

Want to be a vendor? Limited spots are still available! If you sell anything from clothes to jewelry to art, email sarah@yongestclair.ca to secure a stall. Activity stations are also welcome. Stall expenses are covered by the Yonge + St. Clair BIA and vendors keep 100% of their revenue.

Want to help out? We are also recruiting volunteers! Email harlan@yongestclair.ca if interested.

The Brain Project is here at Yonge + St. Clair and we sat down with Dan Tanenbaum, the artist behind ‘Gear Head’, to chat about brain health, watches, and this amazing initiative.

Q: What was your creative thinking and process behind Gear Head and how does a watch symbolize brain communication to you? 

I work with vintage parts for my art and when I heard of the Brain Project I thought it would be a perfect fit for my artwork.  Watch movements are very intricate with hundreds of tiny gears and cogs all working together to accurately tell the time.  If one piece doesn’t work then the whole mechanism falls apart.  To me, the brain is very similar.  It’s a very complicated organ that has many different functions all working together, but if one aspect of the brain isn’t working correctly it affects us in one way or another.

Q: Gear Head is encrusted with thousands of vintage watch parts, appearing to be one cohesive movement. How did you source the parts for the sculpture and how long did this sculpture take to create? 

Sourcing parts is always the most difficult part of my creations.  The size of the Gear Head Brain was a larger canvas than I was used to and had to compile thousands of parts, luckily, I have been hoarding parts for many years by attending flea markets, antique shows and estate sales and was able seamlessly cover the brain to appear as if all the parts are working together.

Q: In previous interviews, you mentioned you come from a long line of watch collectors. Are you still collecting watches? If so, what is your favourite or most valuable watch in your collection?

I do indeed come from a long line of collectors and I have collected many different things over the years.  The truth is that most of my collections are housed in drawers but with watches it is a collection I can wear and see daily.  While I only have one wrist to showcase my collection one at a time I continue to seek out unique timepieces as they become available.  While all my watches get “wrist time” I have a couple of favourites.  My 1958 Rolex submariner ref 6538 and my Urwerk 103.09 are two of my unique pieces.

Q: Your work is very detail-oriented. Have you always worked in this medium, or did you begin your career as an artist producing other types of work? 

I was an art director for many years and transitioned into becoming a technology entrepreneur in my early 30s.  I wanted to stay connected with my creative spirit and searched out a medium that would work for me. With my obsession with timepieces I felt that working with these intricate parts would be a perfect medium.

Q: Is this your first year participating in The Brain Project? If so, what excited you the most about this city-wide initiative? 

This is my first year participating in The Brain Project.  I loved seeing these creative art pieces throughout the city over the years and have always wanted to participate.  I am a huge fan of how this project brings art and brain health awareness to the streets.  I love seeing how each artist brings their unique flare to the medium and the reactions of the people on the streets.

Q: What role do you think public art plays in sparking conversations or raising awareness about particular issues? 

I believe that public art invigorates public spaces and allows artists to be social and civic leaders, advocating through art for different perspectives that can challenge beliefs and start conversations.  I love that public art is so accessible it engages people outside the typical medium (museums and art galleries).

Q: Can you tell us about some other current projects that are underway and do your works have residing themes you are interested in? If so, what are they? 

My artwork is constantly evolving.  While I continue to use the same medium I work hard to reach different audiences.  One project I just completed was working with Kidrobot on one of their vinyl figures called the Dunny.  I encrusted them with vintage watch parts turning these typically soft and light figures into a heavy steampunk character.

Q: Yonge + St. Clair is home to many different art forms, what compelled you to participate in this project and what initiatives are you excited to see in the area?

I am a huge fan of this amazing city we live in with such diversity and energy this art project brings new life to some incredible parts of Toronto.

It was somewhat serendipitous that my piece ended up at Yonge + St. Clair.  My first condo was at Avoca and my first startup company was built in an office right at that corner.  Watching that part of the city evolve over the years has been amazing to see.  While some of the Brains are in the downtown core I was thrilled to hear that my artwork would be showcased on this corner.  I’m excited that this area is seen as an innovative and forward-thinking area of the city.

— Don’t forget to vote for your favourite 2018 brain! — 

The artist with the most public votes as of August 31st 11:59pm (est) will win the Yonge + St. Clair People’s Choice award!

Vote here