Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride
Join TTC’s annual Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride – July 31, 2025
The Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride is symbolic of the great sacrifice and risks that were made by formerly enslaved people during their journey to Canada. This event is presented in partnership with the Blackhurst Cultural Centre and celebrates the significance of the Underground Railroad, the largest anti-slavery movement in North America. Our collaboration aims to highlight and honour the strength of those who faced and conquered systemic barriers to find opportunity, freedom and a place to call home. We are proud to show our support in confronting anti-black racism and celebrating cultural diversity.
The opening ceremony will take place at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (location TBD) at 10:30 p.m. on July 31, 2025. Following the ceremony, at approximately 11:45 p.m. The Freedom Train will depart travelling non-stop between Vaughan Metropolitan Station and Union Station. This immersive experience will feature performances of singing and drumming, as well as moments of reflection on the significance of Emancipation Day. If you are interested in attending, please check out the event details in the drop down below.
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Event details
Underground Freedom Train Ride, Thursday July 31 – 10:30 p.m.
Line 1 Yonge-University – Starting at Vaughan Metropolitan StationFor those planning on attending the event, here is how the TTC can take you there:
Take Line 1 towards Vaughan and exit at the Vaughan Metropolitan Station.
Please note:
Unlike previous years, there will be no closing ceremony upon arrival at Union Station.
Timeline (times are approximate):
10:30 p.m. – Opening procession starts at Vaughan Metropolitan Station (exact location TBD)
11:45 p.m. – The Freedom Train will be departing Vaughan Metropolitan Station
12:30 a.m. – The Freedom Train will arrive at Union StationThe Freedom Train will travel non-stop between Vaughn Metropolitan Station and Union Station. Take the next train if you need to get off between in between.
Fares
Attendees can pay by tapping their PRESTO, debit, credit card or device on a reader on the fare gate, or by depositing cash into the fare box at the Collector booth.
Access
TTC staff will be on-site to escort attendees with accessibility needs to the elevators and down to the platform level for boarding. All other attendees can use the stairs or escalators to the platform.
Freedom Train capacity
The maximum capacity of the Freedom Train is 1,200 people. Once the train is full, additional attendees will need to take the next regular service train heading north to Downsview Park Station. This train will stop at all stations between Union and Downsview Park.
