Indian Independence Day celebrations around the GTA: All you need to know
By Gautam Viswanathan, Deputy Editor, The Inspired Indian
As August unfolds, Indo-Canadian communities across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond are preparing for the 79th Indian Independence Day. From official diplomatic ceremonies to municipal flag-raisings and large-scale cultural festivals, the celebrations reflect the deep ties between Canada and India.
Official celebrations in Toronto and Ottawa
The Consulate General of India in Toronto will host its official Indian Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony on August 15, open to members of the Indian diaspora and friends of India. The event typically features the ceremonial unfurling of the tricolour, the singing of the Indian national anthem, and cultural performances by local artists and community groups. It serves as both a solemn diplomatic occasion and a warm community gathering.
In Ottawa, the High Commission of India will mark the day with its own flag-hoisting ceremony at the chancery. This event brings together dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora in the capital, underscoring the shared history, democratic values, and people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Brampton and Mississauga host symbolic flag-raisings
Two of Peel Region’s most prominent cities will proudly raise the tricolour flag in civic spaces to mark Indian Independence Day:
Brampton: The flag will be raised at Ken Whillans Square outside City Hall. According to the City of Brampton’s Protocol Office, community flag-raisings are a way for civic institutions to formally recognise and celebrate the city’s diversity. The tradition provides a platform for communities to share cultural pride while strengthening civic unity.
Mississauga: The ceremony will be held at Celebration Square, with City officials in attendance. Mississauga’s official flag-raising program is designed to foster inclusion and highlight the city’s multicultural makeup, allowing community groups to showcase their heritage in a public, visible way.
These ceremonies not only mark India’s Independence Day but also symbolise the integration of cultural milestones into Canada’s civic calendar.
Milton joins the celebrations
In Milton, Indian Independence Day celebrations will be held at Milton Memorial Arena on Saturday, Aug. 16. The celebration will feature local dignitaries, community leaders, and residents coming together to honour India’s independence and reflect on the town’s growing multicultural community.
Barrie and Azaadi: family-friendly festivities
The Azaadi – Indian Independence Day festival in Barrie will bring community cheer to the waterfront. Attendees can expect live music, traditional and contemporary dance performances, food vendors serving Indian delicacies, and family-oriented activities that make the event accessible to all ages.
India’s legacy comes to Toronto: Celebrations at Nathan Phillips Square
On Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, Toronto’s iconic Nathan Phillips Square will transform into a vibrant cultural hub for the India Day Grand Celebrations, presented by Panorama India with support from the Consulate General of India. The free event, running from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm, will feature:
- A dazzling street parade (Jhanki) showcasing heritage costumes and floats
- Live music, cultural acts, and dance performances
- Community booths and art installations
- Food vendors offering the flavours of India
- The event brings the grandeur of Mumbai-style Independence Day festivities to the heart of Toronto, blending civic celebration with cultural pride.
Why these celebrations matter
These events serve multiple purposes:
- Heritage and belonging: Connecting generations of Indo-Canadians to India’s history and culture.
- Civic recognition: Integrating cultural milestones into public spaces and official calendars.
- Cultural exchange: Fostering cross-cultural understanding in Canada’s multicultural landscape.