The Art Gallery of Ontario Turns 125: Here’s How You Can Join the Celebration

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is celebrating a major milestone—125 years of art, culture, and community. And what better way to mark the occasion than with an epic birthday bash?

AGO 125: A Night at the Museum—With a Twist

On May 15, 2025, the AGO is staying open late for a one-night-only after-hours birthday party. From 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., the museum’s Walker Court and first floor will transform into a lively hub of music, visuals, and hands-on fun. This 19+ event promises an unforgettable night where art and entertainment collide.

What to Expect

Live DJ set by DJ Clymaxxx, the dynamic resident DJ of The Roz & Mocha Show on KiSS 92.5
Classical-meets-contemporary performances from students of The Royal Conservatory of Music
Access to Level 1 galleries and historical AGO highlights
A cash bar and on-site snacks
Interactive exhibits and surprises from AGO’s 125-year archive

Tickets cost $35 and are available now—although the first block has already sold out. So if you want in, don’t wait too long.

A Summer-Long Celebration of Art and Legacy

The birthday bash is just the beginning. The AGO is rolling out a full summer of programming to honour its legacy and look toward the future.

Highlights of AGO 125 Programming

Iconic 125 Collection
Spotlight on 30 unforgettable artworks throughout the gallery, with special labels and stories behind each piece. Gallery Guides will lead engaging talks every Friday.

AGO Speakeasy at The Grange
Sip curated cocktails in a historic library setting, available every Wednesday and Friday in May, June, and September. Reservations open soon.

AGO Friday Nights
Kick off your weekend with artist talks, maker nights, and live performances—all free with admission. Perfect for families or date nights.

Art Rate Monitor (Starting July 8)
Measure your emotional response to art using wearable tech in this unique visitor experience.

Art Bash (September 25, 2025)
Canada’s ultimate art party returns with a special anniversary edition, in support of the AGO’s mission.

Reflecting on 125 Years of Art and Community

Since its founding in 1900, the AGO has grown from a local initiative into one of North America’s largest art museums. Today, it houses more than 120,000 works of art, including the largest public collection of Henry Moore sculptures, the Thomson European Collection, and powerful works from Global Africa and the Diaspora.

With eyes set on the future, the AGO is also expanding. The Dani Reiss Modern and Contemporary Gallery, opening in 2027, will add 40,000 square feet of new exhibition space. This marks the AGO’s seventh major expansion and reflects its dedication to showcasing diverse, global voices in art.

How to Get Involved

Tickets for the May 15 birthday party are available at ago.ca/events/125-birthday-party.
Admission is always free for Ontarians under 25, Indigenous Peoples, Members, and Annual Passholders.
Annual passes start at $35 and offer unlimited access year-round.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or longtime supporter, 2025 is the perfect year to experience the AGO in a whole new way.

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