Toronto Cultural Hotspot

Celebrate the culture, creativity, and community of Scarborough’s Kingston-Galloway/Orton Park neighbourhood at the Cultural Hotspot 2026 Launch Event. Enjoy free live performances by JUNO Award-winners Choclair and Savannah Ré, JUNO-nominated artist Yanchan Produced, and Scarborough’s own Dan-e-o and Private name Private number. Hosted by comedian Moe Ismail, with music by DJ Mel Boogie, the event features a panel discussion with local creatives and changemakers, family friendly art activities, and community-focused programming throughout the day.

Panel Discussion: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Join the City of Toronto’s Cultural Hotspot for an inspiring panel conversation that explores the powerful intersection of identity, creative voice, and the pathways artists navigate in their work. Featuring diverse artists and cultural leaders from Scarborough, the discussion explores how personal and collective identities shape artistic expression, influence storytelling, and inform creative practice across disciplines. Panelists are Jesse Asido of Scarborough Spots, multidisciplinary artist Blessyl Buan, JUNO Award-winning R&B artist Savannah Ré, and photojournalist and creative Sid Naidu found of The Change Made. Moderated by photographer Anthony Gebrehiwot, the conversation will reflect on the communities that shaped these artists and the pathways emerging creatives can take to grow, connect, and thrive.

Live Performances: 2 to 4 p.m.

Live performances and panel discussion will take place in Centre Court, with a Community Info Table Area featuring 2026 Cultural Hotspot project recipients, family-friendly activities and community activations happening in East and West Courts.