Toronto’s downtown streets will offer a rather unusual sunset on Sunday, October 25, 2026, when the setting sun lines up with some of the city’s busiest roads.
Known as Torontohenge, the phenomenon occurs when the sun appears directly between rows of downtown buildings, creating a golden corridor of light stretching along the streets.
According to civil engineer and sun-position specialist Ralph Bouwmeester, this year’s October alignment is expected at 6:18 p.m. EDT on October 25. Those hoping to photograph the entire sun sitting just above the horizon should aim for approximately 6:15 p.m.
What Is Torontohenge?
The name comes from Manhattanhenge, a similar phenomenon in New York City named by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Both names reference Stonehenge, the ancient monument in England associated with solar alignments.
Toronto experiences four such alignments annually, twice at sunrise in April and August and twice at sunset in February and October.
The effect happens because the sun’s position along the horizon shifts throughout the year. On certain dates, its rising or setting position matches the direction of Toronto’s east-west streets.
Where to See Torontohenge in Toronto
The best viewing locations are downtown streets with tall buildings on either side and a relatively clear western horizon.
Recommended streets include:
- King Street West, particularly near Roy Thomson Hall.
- Wellington Street West
- Adelaide Street West
- Richmond Street West
Bloor Street West near Yonge Street is another possible viewing location.
Arrive by around 5:45 p.m. to find a safe viewing spot and watch the light gradually move between the buildings.
Bouwmeester notes that good photographs are possible for about a week before the October alignment, even if viewers miss the exact date.
What Drivers and Photographers Should Know
The same sunlight that creates striking photographs can make downtown streets hazardous.
Drivers travelling west may encounter intense glare, while those heading east can experience bright reflections in their mirrors.
Photographers should remain on sidewalks rather than stepping into active traffic lanes. Sun glare can also make pedestrians harder for drivers to see.
As Bouwmeester puts it, “Not great for driving, but quite a sight just the same.”
Clear skies and an unobstructed view will offer the best chance of seeing the alignment.