The Great Hall at Hart House is not only one of the oldest student centres in the world but its architecture is like something straight out of Harry Potter. This magical room is a feast for the eyes, featuring spectacular, soaring stained glass windows, an ornate wooden ceiling, gorgeous inscriptions, and now breathtaking Candlelight concerts.
You can easily reach Hart House by metro, disembarking at Museum Station, Queen’s Park Station or St. George Station and it’s surrounded by gorgeous architecture. This area is also known for its lush green spaces and landmarks like Robart’s Library and The Royal Ontario Museum.
Of course, people use this iconic spot to study and that’s why students can get a 20% discount on Candlelight concerts. There are 50 discounted tickets in zone C so grab it while you can using the code HARTHOUSE20.
Candlelight concerts at The Great Hall
As thousands of candles gently flicker, Hart House looks even more like Hogwarts. Tributes to your favourite artists ring out across this vast hall, performed by talented musicians. Hear everything from classical compositions to movie soundtracks, modern Pop, Rock, and Reggeaton by the soft glow of Candlelight.
Facts, curiosities, and interesting things about The Great Hall
1. It’s a hub of thought
The Great Hall at Hart House bears a gilded inscription from John Milton’s Areopagitica that is simply breathtaking. It represents Milton’s advocacy for open discourse and the pursuit of truth, written way back in 1644. It was written in response to the Licensing Order of 1643 which was a huge deal in England at the time. It meant that every piece of writing had to be approved by authorities before it could be printed, completely stifling freedom of speech.
2. Hart House is an art haven
The Hart House Art Collection is incredibly impressive, including works like A.Y. Jackson’s Georgian Bay, November, embracing mid-century movements pivotal to Canadian art. With approximately 717 works, the collection spans various forms, reflecting the sheer breadth of Canadian art. A curated selection of 70 pieces is on display around Hart House. Beyond its cultural significance, the collection serves as an educational resource to visitors.
3. Hogwarts-style architecture
Step into the Great Hall and you will immediately feel like you’re in a Harry Potter movie and at a Candlelight concert it has all of the enchantment of a Hogwarts ball. It has the same Collegiate Gothic style that feels very European, exactly like Christ Church College in the UK (actual set). Ribbed vaults and pointed arches crown intricate woodwork and stonework with gorgeous stained glass windows that illuminate bronze chandeliers.
What else can you do at The Great Hall?
Visitors can explore historic showcases like the 104th Annual Exhibition of Photography and Michael Chambers’ Forever and Again, or engage in community activities ranging from bridge and chess clubs to restorative wellness sessions. With its premium dining options at the Gallery Grill and Arbor Room, alongside a full fitness center offering unique workshops like queer line dancing, the facility remains a premier hub for art, social connection, and health.
Toronto has some of the most beautiful buildings in the world, from the stunning Paradise Theatre to the gorgeous Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto and The Great Hall at Hart House. Now, imagine The Great Hall illuminated by thousands of candles as classically trained musicians fill the room with musical tributes to your favourite artists. What an experience!
