By Staff Report
Residents and visitors will have a chance to step inside some of Richmond Hill’s most unique spaces as the City hosts its annual Doors Open Richmond Hill alongside the Richmond Hill Studio Tour on Saturday, May 9.
Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the free, city-wide event invites the public to explore cultural, historic and architectural sites that are not always open for regular visits. The initiative is part of the province-wide Doors Open Ontario program, which promotes access to heritage properties and community spaces.
This year’s program features a diverse mix of locations across the city—from historic homes and places of worship to cultural institutions and natural sites. Participating venues include the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre, the David Dunlap Observatory (with advance registration), and the Richmond Hill Cultural Centre, among others.
Organizers say the event is designed to showcase the buildings, landscapes and spaces that help define the community, offering a behind-the-scenes look at places that reflect Richmond Hill’s identity.
Running in parallel, the Studio Tour opens local artists’ workspaces to the public, allowing visitors to meet creators, view exhibitions and experience live demonstrations. From painting and pottery to textiles and mixed media, the self-guided tour highlights both established and emerging artists across multiple locations.
A key feature returning this year is the “Passport to Culture,” encouraging attendees to visit multiple sites and collect stamps for a chance to win a City cultural prize pack.
City officials describe the combined events as a celebration of local heritage and creativity—bringing together history, architecture and the arts in a single day. With free admission and a wide range of participating sites, the program continues to be one of Richmond Hill’s most accessible cultural events of the year.
Pre-registration is required for select locations due to capacity limits.