Item - 2024.EP9.10

The Board of Governors of Exhibition Place:

1.  Requested staff to provide a letter of support to tenants and event organizers at Exhibition Place for events held between May 1 and September 30, 2024, on a trial basis, such as those specifically listed in Attachment 1 of this Report, to be considered as Municipally Significant for the purpose of applying for a Special Occasion Permit or for a temporary extension of premises and/or hours for the sale of alcohol at permanently licensed locations, and staff report back with an update on the pilot at the December 12, 2024 meeting of the Board.

On a trial basis, this report recommends identifying events held from May to September at Exhibition Place as Municipally Significant for tenants applying for a temporary extension of operating hours for serving alcohol.

Toronto City Council adopted a report from the General Manager of Economic Development and Culture outlining a comprehensive plan to “Strengthen Toronto’s Nighttime Economy.”

“Nighttime Economy” describes the City’s social, cultural, and economic activities between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Nightlife refers to entertainment-related activities and is vital to the nighttime economy. It encompasses enjoying Toronto’s nightlife amenities and support for those who work at night, including individuals who help manage life at night, such as hospitality industry workers, bar owners, shift workers, and emergency services professionals. A healthy night economy supports all the needs of its residents and visitors.

A recommendation in the Council-approved report directed the General Manager of Economic Development and Culture to identify emerging entertainment areas outside the downtown core that can support entertainment uses at night and the future growth of nightlife.

Exhibition Place is Canada’s most extensive entertainment venue, hosting over 1,761 events and attracting over 5.5 million visitors annually. This iconic entertainment, music, and events site is pivotal in Toronto’s cultural and economic fabric generating over $500 million in annual economic impact. The grounds, with its multiple venues for sports teams, entertainment, music, and cultural events, are ideally situated to support the nighttime economy.

Our Strategic Plan is a roadmap for ensuring Exhibition Place is Canada’s premier destination for conventions, exhibitions, events, and entertainment. Facilitating opportunities that support our tenants will help us meet our goal of exceeding client and visitor expectations.