A stretch of Church Street just went car-free for the summer and here’s what’s happening, Canada Reviews

The Church-Wellesley Village is officially making room for more people and tons of patio energy. Starting Friday, June 19 a stretch of Church Street is going car-free as part of the Church Street Pedestrianization Pilot, a new summer initiative aimed at turning Toronto’s most iconic 2SLGBTQ+ neighbourhood into a more walkable public gathering space!

The pilot, launched by Councillor Chris Moise, runs from June 19 to August 21 and will close Church Street to north-south vehicle traffic between Wellesley Street East and Alexander Street. That being said, the area isn’t completely blocked off. East-west cross streets will remain open to vehicles, and no TTC buses or streetcars are expected to be disrupted by the pilot.

The inspiration for this project comes from Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest in Montreal, QC, where a similar pilot was tested for several years and ended up being a massive success, with a stretch of the road permanently designed for seasonal pedestrianization. With the Church Street pilot, the City wants to see what a more people-first version of the neighbourhood could look like: locals can expect more street furniture, planters, live events, local markets and spontaneous street life activities throughout the summer.

The timing couldn’t be better, since the closure kicks off right as Pride season is heating up in Toronto. Village Fest is taking over the area from June 19 to 21, bringing a pre-Pride party to Church and Maitland. The event is set to feature the Village Mega Stage, go-go dancers from The CC Boys, a fashion show from The Men’s Room and extended hours at nearby bars and restaurants.

Next up is the Green Space Festival, which runs from June 24 to 28 at Barbara Hall Park, outside The 519, with outdoor parties, drag, DJs and performances supporting 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Toronto Pride 2026 takes place June 25 to 28, 2026, with celebrations happening across the neighbourhood.

And Church Street might not be the only Toronto road getting the pedestrian treatment! In a recent Instagram post, Councillor Josh Matlow said he’s bringing forward a motion to the next city council meeting, seconded by Councillor Moise, naturally, to create a Pedestrian Streets Program for Toronto.

“Pedestrian streets are proven to contribute to the success of local businesses and residents’ quality of life,” Matlow said in his post.

If approved, city staff would be asked to look at which streets could work for festivals, seasonal closures and even permanent pedestrianized spaces across the city.

“Many global cities including Paris and Copenhagen, and as close to home as Montreal, have successful pedestrian streets – and it’s time that Toronto become the world class city we aspire to be,” he added.