Urbanism
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Events that took / take place in Downsview:
The Downsview site in Toronto has hosted a number of notable events over the years, reflecting its evolution from a military base and aerospace hub to a large public space with cultural and recreational uses. Here are some significant events:
1. Papal Mass with Pope John Paul II (2002)
- One of the most iconic events at Downsview was World Youth Day in 2002, which culminated in a massive outdoor mass led by Pope John Paul II. The event drew over 800,000 people, making it one of the largest gatherings in Canadian history. The site was transformed into an expansive venue for pilgrims from all over the world, celebrating the week-long youth event. The approximately 260-acre Downsview Park was used.
2. SARS Benefit Concert (2003)
- Known as “SARSStock” or “Molson Canadian Rocks for Toronto,” this benefit concert took place in July 2003 in response to the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) outbreak, which heavily affected Toronto’s tourism and economy. It featured an all-star lineup, including the Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Rush, Justin Timberlake, and more. Over 450,000 people attended, making it one of the largest concerts in North American history.
3. Edgefest (1990s-2000s)
- Edgefest, an annual rock music festival organized by Toronto’s radio station 102.1 The Edge, was held at Downsview Park for several years. The event featured prominent Canadian and international rock bands, attracting thousands of music fans. Downsview's large, open area made it ideal for hosting these large-scale concerts.
4. Veld Music Festival (Since 2012)
- The Veld Music Festival is an annual electronic dance music (EDM) festival that has taken place at Downsview Park since 2012. It features popular international DJs and electronic music artists and continues to draw large crowds, making it one of the top music events in Toronto each year.
5. Toronto Air Show and Aircraft Events
- While Downsview was still an active airport, it hosted various aviation-related events, including air shows and aircraft demonstrations. Given its legacy as an aircraft manufacturing site and testing ground for De Havilland and later Bombardier Aerospace, many aviation events were linked to this industrial history.
6. Military Parades and Ceremonial Events
- As a former military base, Downsview hosted several military parades, official ceremonies, and training exercises for the Canadian Armed Forces. These events were common from the 1940s through the 1970s, especially during wartime and post-war periods when Downsview played a critical role in Canada’s military aviation.
7. Cultural and Community Events
- Downsview Park Film Events: The park has hosted community movie nights, film screenings, and cultural events aimed at engaging local residents.
- Canada Day Celebrations: The park regularly serves as a venue for Canada Day festivities, with fireworks, concerts, and family-friendly activities that attract people from across the city.
8. Sports and Recreation
- Toronto FC Training Facility: The training grounds for Toronto’s Major League Soccer team, Toronto FC, are located at Downsview Park. Various sporting events and soccer matches have taken place here, making it a hub for local athletics.
- Recreational Leagues and Tournaments: Downsview Park has hosted numerous sporting events, including soccer, rugby, and cricket tournaments, due to its large fields and multipurpose facilities.
These events reflect the site's adaptability and its transformation from a military and industrial zone into a vibrant public space used for everything from music festivals to sporting events and religious gatherings.