#ExperienceTO: Little Italy Historical Tour
Schedule
Sat Jan 10 2026 at 10:00 am to 11:30 am
UTC-05:00Location
Toronto Public Library - College/Shaw Branch | Toronto, ON
About this Event
About Little Italy: "This vibrant neighbourhood is the very first Little Italy in Toronto and an authentically unique neighbourhood that is incredibly rich in both character and culture. It all started when Italians first arrived in Toronto in large numbers in the early 20th century, and settled in an area known as “The Ward” – centred on University Avenue, and College Street. In the 1920s, most Italians moved west of Bathurst, and the College-Clinton area emerged as the City’s major Little Italy. The area experienced a significant influx in Italian settlement in the 1950s. Mostly working in construction or factory workers, some established small businesses along College – bakeries, fruit markets, meat markets, salons, tailor shops, barber shops. It wasn’t until they became more established that they started to venture into such businesses as cafes, restaurants, theatres and communications. Little Italy – College Street continues to be recognized and honoured for its historical contributions to the Italian community and to city life in multicultural Toronto. A visit to Little Italy will prove to be a unique experience, one that you won’t soon forget." (Little Italy BIA)
Join us for a FREE, public walking tour that will be a good experience for anyone: whether you’re 8 or 80 years old, and whether you’re a curious local, solo traveler, backpacker, newcomer, or part of a group of friends.
ABOUT
Beginning in front of the Toronto Public Library - College/Shaw Branch (766 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C4), the interactive tour will be hosted by your guide Alex Rășcanu. The tour will focus on Little Italy's history. The historical tour will conclude at a nearby coffee shop.
WHEN
Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 10:00am. The tour will last approximately 90 minutes.
WHERE TO MEET
The tour will start in front of the Toronto Public Library - College/Shaw Branch (766 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C4).
WHERE IT ENDS
This tour will end at a nearby coffee shop, where you can order coffee/tea/brunch and spend some more time speaking and connecting with fellow historical tour participants.
FACILITATOR
Alex Rășcanu is a Torontonian, a husband, a father of four, and an avid student of our city's history. Stay in touch with him on LinkedIn / X / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube.
Where is it happening?
Toronto Public Library - College/Shaw Branch, 766 College Street, Toronto, CanadaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 0.00
