Toronto’s Church and Wellesley neighbourhood—lovingly known as The Village—has long been a vibrant, resilient heart of the city. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the area was home to Toronto’s upper class, with grand homes and stylish storefronts lining the streets. Over time, the neighbourhood transformed into something even more powerful: a safe haven and gathering place for Toronto’s growing 2SLGBTQ+ community.
By the 1970s, The Village had become a visible, active force for change. What began as grassroots organizing and underground spaces grew into an empowered community taking up space—loudly, proudly, and unapologetically. Businesses, bars, bookstores, and community centres began to open, turning the Church Street corridor into a cultural and political centre.
From Protest to Celebration: Pride Takes the Streets
Toronto’s first Pride events were acts of protest—small but mighty marches that emerged in the wake of the 1981 Bathhouse Raids, when hundreds of gay men were arrested in what became one of the largest mass arrests in Canadian history. The public response was immediate and fierce, sparking a citywide conversation about police conduct, civil rights, and visibility.
These events laid the foundation for what would become Toronto Pride. By the 1990s, Pride Week had become an established city festival, attracting thousands and weaving activism with celebration. Today, Toronto Pride is one of the largest in North America, drawing millions every June and reminding us all how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.
Today’s Village: A Living Legacy
Flag and sign at the Pride Weekend Festival on Church Street.
Walking through The Village today, you’ll feel the energy of that legacy. It’s in the rainbow crosswalks, the historic 519 Community Centre, the inclusive businesses, and the public art installations. It’s in the stories shared at Glad Day Bookshop and the joyful noise of summer street festivals.
For The Anndore House, being part of The Village means celebrating the community, its history, and its future—not just during Pride Month, but all year long.
Celebrate Pride With Us — Stay & Slay at The Anndore House
This Pride Month, celebrate where it all began with our Stay & Slay package, created with love (and a splash of vodka).
Enjoy a complimentary cocktail per person, per stay
Receive a special Pride-themed welcome amenity
Stay connected with free Wi-Fi
Feel good knowing 5% of your room rate goes directly to CANFAR (The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research), supporting critical HIV research and awareness in Canada.
Use corporate code 89934 when booking to unlock the offer and join us in celebrating Pride with purpose.
