Church Street Halloween Block Party – Toronto

Every October 31st, Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village transforms into one of the city’s biggest gay street festivals with the Church Street Halloween Block Party.

Thousands of people flood into the Gay Village, turning several blocks of Church Street into an open-air carnival of costumes, music, and nightlife. It’s a uniquely Toronto event that blends Halloween tradition with the LGBTQ+ scene, making it one of the most anticipated nights of the year.

What to Expect

From early evening, Church Street closes to traffic and fills with crowds showing off elaborate costumes. Drag queens, performance artists, and gay partygoers bring theatrical energy to the night, with many outfits pushing creativity, camp, and political statement all at once.

The event is free and open to everyone, but it has strong roots in queer culture, with local bars, clubs, and cafés hosting their own themed parties that spill out onto the street.

Gay and Nightlife Connection

The Church Street Halloween Block Party is more than just a night of dressing up — it’s a showcase of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. Venues in the Village, from drag bars to dance clubs, run special events, and the street itself becomes a stage for the community. For many gay Torontonians, Halloween is the second Pride.

Practical Information

• Date: Every year on October 31st.
• Location: Church Street between Gloucester and Wood Street, in the heart of the Gay Village.
• Time: Crowds gather from about 6 pm, with the party running well into the night.
• Tips: The event is outdoors, so dress for the autumn chill — though costumes often defy practicality! For the full experience, plan to hop between Village bars before and after the street festivities.

Book from a selection of the best gay-friendly hotels in Toronto to enjoy the Church Street Halloween Block Party and the city’s vibrant queer nightlife.

Further reading

• How Halloween Became "Gay Christmas"
• Best Gay Halloween Costume Ideas