Mel Lastman Square facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mel Lastman Square |
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| Public square | |
 Mel Lastman Square, as seen from a building across Yonge Street, with the North York Civic Centre in the background |
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| Features: | Concert stage; reflecting pool/skating rink |
| Opening date: | June 16-18, 1989 |
| Area: | 20 000 sq. ft. |
| Surface: | concrete |
| Dedicated to: | Mel Lastman, Mayor of North York and Toronto |
| Owner: | City of Toronto |
| Location: | 5100 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario M2N 5V7 |
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Location of Mel Lastman Square in Toronto |
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Mel Lastman Square is a cool public space in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It's located right next to the North York Civic Centre. The square is named after Mel Lastman, who was a mayor for both North York and later for Toronto. It officially opened on June 16, 1989.
Many different activities happen here all year long. But it's also a calm spot where people can relax or enjoy their lunch.
Contents
History of Mel Lastman Square
How the Square Was Built
Before the square was built, this area was just a big grassy field. It was hard to get to the City Hall because of it. The idea to name the square after Mel Lastman came up in 1986.
The square cost about $5 million to build. The architect, J. Michael Kirkland, designed the space.
Opening Day Fun
The official opening happened on June 16, 1989. About 3,500 people came to celebrate! There was a choir singing and even a giant inflatable King Kong on a nearby building. Important people like Lincoln Alexander and Alan Tonks were there. A special message from Prime Minister Brian Mulroney was also read. To top it all off, 7,000 balloons were released into the sky!
What You'll Find at the Square
Location and Design
Mel Lastman Square is surrounded by busy streets and buildings. To the east is Yonge Street. The Toronto District School Board headquarters is to the south. The North York Civic Centre is to the west. To the north, you'll find the North York Central Library and a shopping complex.
The square is designed to be a bit lower than the street. This helps keep it peaceful, away from the busy traffic. Trees also provide lots of shade.
Cool Features
A small artificial stream flows from a fountain near Yonge Street. It leads down into a large concrete area. You'll see lots of plants, trees, and benches where you can sit.
In the middle of the square, there's a large pond. In the summer, it's a calm spot to look at. But in the winter, it turns into a fun skating rink!
Events and Activities
The square has an outdoor theatre where many events take place. Every summer, you can enjoy jazz concerts called "Sunday Serenades." Other events include charity runs, a farmer's market, and cultural festivals. Canada Day is also a big celebration here. Many family-friendly events happen throughout the year.
In 2019, a piano was donated to the square. It's placed under a special rotunda, and people can play it for everyone to enjoy.
Images for kids
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A tree-lined walkway by morning in Mel Lastman Square, looking east toward Yonge Street.
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Performance on stage at Mel Lastman Square, Canada Day 2007
