Winter Stations 2025 in Toronto

Winter Stations is an annual international design competition held in Toronto, Canada, which transforms lifeguard stations along the city’s Woodbine Beach into captivating art installations. Founded in 2014 by RAW Design, Ferris + Associates, and Curio, the event aims to bring fresh artistic perspectives to Toronto's winter waterfront, creating an engaging outdoor exhibition space. The 2025 edition marks the event's 11th year, with the theme "Dawn," symbolizing renewal and the start of a new creative era.

What to Expect

The installations are temporary structures that reimagine lifeguard stations as interactive art pieces. Each design incorporates elements of the existing lifeguard towers without altering their structural integrity. This year’s theme, "Dawn," invites artists to explore concepts of transformation, growth, and the possibilities of change. According to the organizers, the installations are intended to be experienced both up close and from afar, blending harmoniously with the snowy and sandy environment.

Winter Stations showcases 4-6 winning designs annually, depending on funding, selected from entries submitted by artists, designers, and architects worldwide. The public exhibition begins on February 17, 2025, coinciding with Family Day weekend in Ontario, and runs for approximately six weeks.

Schedule and Key Dates for Winter Stations 2025

The design competition submission period is from October 4 to November 4, 2024. In January 2025, the winners will be announced. The captivating installations will be on display from February 17 to April 1, 2025, transforming Toronto’s east-end beaches into a winter wonderland of art and creativity.

Location and Accessibility

Winter Stations takes place along Woodbine Beach, located on Toronto's east end along Lake Ontario. The beach is easily accessible from downtown Toronto via public transit or by car, with parking available nearby. For those unfamiliar with the area, Woodbine Beach offers scenic views of Lake Ontario and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Tickets and Amenities

Admission to Winter Stations is free. The open-air exhibition provides an opportunity to experience art in a natural setting, complemented by nearby cafes and restaurants where attendees can warm up after exploring the installations. While on-site amenities are minimal, the proximity to Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods ensures that visitors have access to additional conveniences.

History

Since its inception in 2014, Winter Stations has grown significantly, drawing participation from over 90 countries and becoming a fixture in Toronto’s winter calendar. The event was conceived to bring attention to the city’s underutilized winter waterfront and to engage the public with art in an unconventional setting. Past themes, such as “Catalyst,” “Immigration,” and “Riot,” have inspired diverse and thought-provoking designs, reinforcing the event’s reputation as a platform for creativity and dialogue.