TTC to host Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride tonight

The TTC has announced it will once again be hosting the Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride, taking place tonight, Thurs., Jul. 31, in support of Blackhurst Cultural Centre. The late evening train ride from Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station to Union Station marks the celebration of Emancipation Day on August 1st.

“The Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride is a tribute to those who resisted oppression, conquered systemic barriers to find opportunity, freedom, and a place to call home in Canada,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. “Thank you to the TTC, Blackhurst Cultural Centre, and everyone involved for hosting this meaningful event each year.”

“This ride is more than a journey through our city, it’s a journey through history,” said TTC Chair Jamaal Myers. “It reminds us of the strength and resilience of Black communities and the importance of continuing to build a Toronto where equity and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do."

“The TTC is proud to once again support Blackhurst Cultural Centre in hosting the Underground Freedom Train Ride,” said TTC CEO Mandeep S. Lali. “The TTC is committed to being an inclusive transit system that connects families, people and uplifts stories that shape our collective identity, in this great city we call home."

The Underground Freedom Train will travel non-stop between Vaughan Metropolitan Centre and Union stations, offering up to 1,200 participants an immersive experience that will feature performances of singing and drumming, as well as moments of reflection on the significance of Emancipation Day.

When: Thurs., July 31 / Fri., Aug. 1, 2025

Where: Line 1 Yonge-University, Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station to Union Station

Time: The opening ceremony starts outside of Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station in Transit Park at 10:45 p.m. Train boarding begins at 11:40 p.m. and arrives at Union Station at approximately 12:30 a.m.