WHEN | Friday, October 9, 2026, from 6 PM to 8 PM

WHERE | The Esplanade & Berkeley St., Toronto

Free for all. No registration required.

• Live music by Trash Panda Brass

• Unveiling of three community-made mosaic tables, with workshops led by Alex Ganassini

Joy in the Park brings live brass music, queer joy, and community-made public art to The Esplanade for Jamii’s last outdoor party of 2026. This free, all-ages gathering in downtown Toronto’s St. Lawrence neighbourhood celebrates the people who make a place feel like home, through music, making, and time spent together.

Toronto’s queer brass band Trash Panda Brass brings the evening its infectious energy. Known for lively arrangements that pay homage to iconic queer hits, the band makes room for celebration, connection, and a good dance. Their community-centred spirit feels right at home on The Esplanade, where neighbours, families, friends, and visitors gather to enjoy music together. Queer community members from across the city are warmly invited to join the party.

The evening also marks the unveiling of three mosaic tables in front of 262 The Esplanade. Created through community workshops led by Alex Ganassini, founder of Dolomite Mosaics, the tables bring a shared creative process into a space neighbours use every day.

Alex’s approach to mosaic-making invites people to slow down, work with their hands, and connect with one another. These tables carry that spirit beyond the workshops, becoming a lasting part of the neighbourhood. For those who helped make them, the celebration offers a chance to see their collective work in place. For others, it is an introduction to a new piece of public art made by the community around it.

From the brass band’s exuberant music to the mosaics’ carefully assembled pieces, this edition of Joy in the Park celebrates what people create together. There is room to dance, sit and listen, catch up with a neighbour, or simply enjoy the evening.

Chairs are available, and guests are welcome to bring their own chairs and snacks. In case of rain, the event takes place at The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade.

Support free community arts

Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now.

Jamii’s Joy in the Park events are supported by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, Rama Gaming House, Charitable Gaming, Ontario Arts Council, and Metcalf Foundation.