“Yonge-Dundas Square is one of the most important cultural landmarks of our city. I can’t think of a better way to honour the legacy of a great Canadian musician.” – Mark Saunders

Toronto - Today, Mark Saunders announced that as Mayor, he would change the name of Yonge-Dundas Square to “Lightfoot Music Square” in celebration of Canada’s iconic musician, Gordon Lightfoot.  

The idea to rename Yonge-Dundas Square was first brought forward by Toronto restauranteur, Arron Barbarian. The area is the central hub of Toronto’s downtown core. Saunders believes that a revitalized space is the ideal way to commemorate the life of Gordon Lightfoot, who performed less than 300 metres down the street at Massey Hall over 170 times in his career.

Toronto is the heart of Canadian music and, under Saunders’ vision, “Lightfoot Music Square” would be turned into a public space with the addition of a permanent stage that would be used to host Canadian musicians and promote Canadian music events and festivals across all genres and eras.

“In recent years, Yonge-Dundas Square has become a hotspot for crime and disorder. I want to restore the sense of community, wonder, and cultural importance of this space, so it showcases to residents and visitors all of the great things that Canada’s homegrown talent has to offer," said Saunders.