Music

The Weeknd Awarded Key to the City, Proclamation in Hometown of Toronto

The vocalist was recognized in his hometown for his professional and philanthropic achievements.

Courtesy of XO
Courtesy of XO

The Weeknd received a major honor in his hometown of Toronto over the weekend.

On Saturday (July 26), the Hurry Up Tomorrow artist was awarded the Key to the City and a citywide proclamation of "The Weeknd Weekend" from July 26-27. With the honors, the City of Toronto recognized the pop star actor for his accomplishments as a singer-songwriter and producer, his enduring humanitarian efforts, and his dedication to giving back to his city.

The honor was presented by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow during a private ceremony attended by youth from the West Scarborough and The Weeknd's alma mater, Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute, ahead of the second leg of the singer's After Hours Til Dawn 2025 Tour. The tour will run in Toronto from July 27–28 and August 7–8.

The artist has represented his native country well for years. In 2021, he became the first Canadian solo artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. In 2018, he co-founded Toronto-based HXOUSE, a not-for-profit creative incubator for young entrepreneurs. More recently, $1 for every ticket sold on the After Hours 'Til Dawn Tour supported the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.

"I’m deeply honored to receive the Key to the City. It feels good to be home," said The Weeknd. "Toronto is where I found my voice, and I’m committed to helping the next generation find theirs. That’s why I’m proud to support the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough and my former high school, Birchmount Park, providing youth with the means to unlock their full potential."

In recognition of The Weeknd Weekend and the singer's efforts to help the Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute and the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough, the CN Tower will be illuminated in blue and green for The Weeknd.

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