The Yonge-Dundas Square or YDS (officially the Yonge-Dundas Square Board of Management) is a City agency that manages, operates and maintains Yonge-Dundas Square, a one-acre outdoor public space in downtown Toronto. The Square serves as a gathering place and hosts entertainment and community activities that appeal to residents and tourists, showcase local businesses and contribute to the community’s cultural vitality.

YDS manages the Square’s outdoor public space and activities on behalf of the City in partnership with residential communities and local businesses including the Downtown Yonge Business Improvement Area.

YDS key service activities include:

  • Event Production – YDS produces a broad range of programs which are free to the public including concerts, film screenings and a busking program
  • Event Coordination – YDS coordinates, supports and hosts third-party events including community festivals, arts and cultural festivals and functions for corporations, charities and not-for-profit organizations
  • Public Space Coordination – when not in use for special events, the Square functions as an open space for the public to enjoy with seasonal amenities including fountains and café style seating

View the City’s Budget for detailed budget information on YDS’ service activities.

Governance

The Yonge-Dundas Square Board of Management was established by City Council in 2001 and is a City agency under the City of Toronto Act, 2006.

Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 636, Public Squares governs the maintenance, operation and control of the Square exercised by the YDS Board of Management and establishes the YDS Board’s structure and procedures. A Council-approved Relationship Framework further defines the relationship between the City and YDS and further sets out Council’s delegation of authority, expectations and requirements.

The YDS Board consists of 15 members and comprises the City Councillor for Ward 13 and 10 public members appointed by City Council through the City’s Public Appointments process. City staff and other City agency staff also sit on the YDS Board as non-voting members. The Board Chair is appointed by City Council and the Vice-Chair is selected by the Board from among its members.

Find out about opportunities to serve on the YDS Board and its current membership.

Key Council Decisions