Convocation Hall
A Historic Landmark for Iconic Events
At the heart of U of T’s St. George campus, Convocation Hall is the university’s largest and most iconic venue. With its grand domed architecture and central location, it has hosted everything from academic ceremonies and public lectures to concerts, conferences and cultural milestones.
A Venue for Every Occasion
With a seating capacity of 1,731 guests (subject to AV setup), Convocation Hall offers a dramatic setting for:
- Convocation ceremonies for all three U of T campuses
- Academic events and keynote lectures
- Public talks and community gatherings
- Performances, concerts and special cultural events
The Campus Events & Conference Services (CECS) team manages all logistics, providing planning support, staffing and technical coordination to ensure a seamless experience for organizers and guests.
History of Convocation Hall
Designed by the celebrated Toronto firm Darling & Pearson, Convocation Hall opened in 1907 to meet the growing university’s need for a large ceremonial auditorium.
- Influenced by Edwardian Baroque revival style, its design emphasizes symmetry, proportion and classical form.
- In 1912, a grand pipe organ—the fifth largest in Toronto—was installed.
- In 2006, extensive restorations modernized amenities while preserving the Hall’s historic character, including accessible washrooms, refurbished seating and restored millwork.
Over the decades, Convocation Hall has hosted iconic performances—from Bob Marley & the Wailers to Frank Zappa and Van Morrison—as well as world leaders and public figures such as Al Gore. The Hall has even made appearances on screen in the movie Mean Girls and TV show Fringe.
Convocation Hall Today
Today, Convocation Hall remains a keystone of U of T’s downtown campus, welcoming thousands of students, families, faculty and visitors each year. It continues to serve as the stage for convocation ceremonies, groundbreaking lectures, and events that shape the cultural fabric of the university and the city.
By the Numbers
1907
Opened as U of T’s largest ceremonial hall
2006
Major restoration completed
100+
Events hosted annually
5th
Largest pipe organ in Toronto
Venue Details
The capacity of the Hall is 1,731 (subject to decrease based on AV requirements).
As the Hall is a historic building, it does not have elevators. The main rotunda floor is at grade level, and the main Hall tiers and all balconies are accessible by stairs only.
Taping posters or affixing material to the walls or furniture is prohibited.
Convocation Hall is equipped with:
- Two built-in projectors
- Podium and microphone
- Livestreaming and recording services
All AV services are provided by Learning Space Management, with technician support required for every event.
All staffing for the venue will be provided by the in-house AV and Campus Ambassador team.
Book Convocation Hall
Host your next lecture, ceremony or special event in one of Toronto’s most distinguished venues.
