In 2026, York University continues to strengthen its role as a committed community partner—fostering meaningful connections with community leaders, local organizations, and residents across the region.
Here are some highlights of our activities this year:
Community Skate Day in Newmarket
We kicked off 2026 with our annual Community Skate Day and were thrilled to host the event at Riverwalk Commons in Newmarket for the very first time. Despite the rainy evening, it was wonderful to see so many community members and alumni join us for skating, hot chocolate, and great conversation.
Lunar New Year
York University was pleased to once again sponsor Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Chinese New Year Dinner. Lunar New Year is a signature event that brings together community, business leaders, and public officials from across the region. We had a wonderful time celebrating the Year of the Horse and connecting with our partners and friends in Markham.
Earth Day in Whitchurch-Stouffville
York University joined community members in Whitchurch-Stouffville to celebrate Earth Day. We had a fantastic time planting seeds and sharing decomposition trivia with the sustainability leaders of tomorrow.
Discover Georgina Show
York University was pleased to partner with YSpace York-Simcoe at the 2026 Discover Georgina Show. In addition to promoting York’s Markham Campus, the show allowed us to showcase our many programs supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Georgina and the York-Simcoe Region. We had a great time connecting with local residents, businesses, and the Georgina Chamber of Commerce!
International Museum Day
York University celebrated International Museum Day at the Markham Museum. Researchers from York’s Centre for Bee Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation hosted a community table where visitors learned about importance of bees and other pollinators in supporting ecosystems, food systems, and biodiversity.
Doors Open Toronto
Once again, York University welcomed visitors to Keele Campus as part of Doors Open Toronto 2026. Despite the rainy weather, community members from across the city came out to explore York’s unique spaces, which included tours of the Nursing Simulation Centre, exhibitions at the Goldfarb Gallery, and Scott Library, one of the largest academic libraries in Canada. Thank you to everyone who braved the weather to participate and to the staff, faculty, and volunteers who helped make the day a success.
Unionville Festival Parade
York University participated in the 2026 Unionville Festival Parade to celebrate the reopening of Main Street Unionville. The parade provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with families, community organizations, and local leaders in Markham. We were pleased to take part in the celebration and support an event that brings the community together through culture, creativity, and local pride.
Pride 2026
York University proudly joined thousands of community members to celebrate Pride at the Toronto and York Region Pride Parades. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters came together to celebrate the contributions, ongoing accomplishments, and activism of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Marching side by side with community partners, York celebrated the power of connection, visibility and allyship, reinforcing our dedication to creating welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive—on campus and throughout the communities we serve.
Canada Day
For third year in a row, York University was pleased to celebrate Canada Day with the City of Markham, joining families and community members for a day of festivities, connection and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to celebrate with us!
Honda INDY Markham
York University was proud to take part in the inaugural Honda INDYCAR race in Markham! It was an exciting opportunity to connect with community members, businesses and leaders from across the region while showcasing York’s innovative programs and technologies to guests of all ages. We look forward to seeing this event become an annual tradition in the City of Markham.