Doors Open Toronto
Doors Open Toronto is an annual event when approximately 150 buildings of architectural, historic, cultural, and social significance to the city of Toronto open their doors to the public for this free city-wide celebration.
Doors Open Toronto was developed as a millennium project in 2000, by the City of Toronto (developed from a European model) and has since attracted over 1.7 million residents and tourists. Doors Open Toronto gives people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to learn about Toronto's history, get involved and celebrate Toronto's built heritage.
Doors Open Toronto was the first city in North America to launch this type of program, and it has inspired similar programs across Canada and in the United States. Many participating buildings organize guided tours, exhibits, displays, and activities to enrich the visitor experience.
Most buildings are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday; however some only open for limited hours. The public is advised to check the "buildings to visit" section of the official website. The list of buildings is made public on May 1 of the calendar year. Some Doors Open Toronto highlighted buildings include: R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, Mackenzie House, and TTC carthouses.
Doors Open Toronto relies heavily on the support of sponsors. The Toronto Star releases the official Doors Open Toronto program guide in May of each year and has been a vital supporter of the program. In 2012, City TV and Omni Television also came on board as Doors Open Toronto media sponsors.
Doors Open Toronto is managed by the Cultural Services and Special Events Departments at the City of Toronto. Doors Open Toronto relies on the support, as well as enthusiasm of hundreds of volunteers.
Applications are available each fall and can be found on the Doors Open Toronto website.
In recent years, each festival has had a theme.
The first Doors Open Toronto was held in May 2000. Since then, Doors Open Toronto has been held on the fourth weekend of May.
Sources for the above table:
Scadding Cabin (Toronto's oldest building)
Design Exchange (former )
The Chum Radio Building at 1331 Yonge Street
Canadian Music Centre at Doors Open 2010
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Wikipedia