Time and time again, Toronto has proven to be a playground for corporate events with bold, themed experiences that leave a lasting impression. This is thanks to the exciting venues in Toronto that almost inspire the themes themselves—think: the historic elegance of Casa Loma or the industrial charm of the Distillery District—and the creativity of the planners, too.
From rolling dice at a mock casino to dancing at a roaring ’20s party, the city has hosted gatherings that go far beyond the usual boardroom. Here, we spotlight six standout corporate events, with inspiration and practical takeaways for planners looking to create memorable experiences.
PDAC Annual General Meeting 2025
1. Mock casino at Fairmont Royal York
In March, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) hosted their annual general meeting at the Fairmont Royal York right in downtown Toronto. They ramped up the excitement with a night of networking and a bit of friendly competition at a mock casino, where guests rolled the dice and mingled with delegates. Whether bluffing to victory or cheering on the high rollers, the night was a winning hand of great company, conversation and casino-style fun.
Create the same magic with your delegates: arm them with a stack of chips and have them try their luck at Blackjack, Roulette, Texas Hold’em and more. Add décor touches like playing cards and dice and serve themed drinks like a Royal Flush Martini to make it all come together.
2. Spooky vibes across the city
Albourne Partners Limited teamed up with The Concierge Club in 2022 to turn their annual corporate conference into an unforgettable series of spooky events: “Time Warp,” “The Bloodsucker’s Ball,” “The Laboratory” and “Come From Away.” Each event was brought to life in Toronto’s most iconic venues, including Casa Loma, Palais Royal Ballroom and Hotel X, welcoming over 450 guests per gathering. Find inspiration from their events: each one had carefully thought-out décor, such as red curtains and velvet couches for the Rocky Horror Picture Show-inspired “Time Warp” event, to show-stopping performances like the “Vampire Waltz” choreographed by renowned Canadian dancer and choreographer Hollywood Jade.
3. Elegant carnival at the casino
When the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto management team planned their 2024 customer appreciation event, organizers went all out, bringing an elegant Parisian-style carnival to fruition. The in-house space was dressed in a colour palette of red, blue and gold, and an entrance tunnel was draped in velvet over a red carpet complete with spotlights. There was also an illusionist, game booths, custom cocktails like Prosecco with cotton candy and classic carnival food (think: smash burgers and lobster mac and cheese). Planners, take note: you can transform a standard event into an unforgettable experience with thoughtful design and customized entertainment.
United Thermo Group Limited's Masquerade themed party
4. Masquerade party at Universal Event Space
When United Thermo Group Limited celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2024, they transformed Universal Event Space in the Greater Toronto Area into an unforgettable masquerade party. The space was brought to life with rich red draping, velvet lounge seating, sculptural floral installations, custom vinyl branding, lacquered flooring and gold-accented lighting. Guests were immersed in a fully curated experience, featuring aerial performers, dramatic art installations, signature cocktail stations, lounge areas, masquerade masks and more. The result was an unforgettable gala and proof that when exceptional venues are paired with high-impact design and creative storytelling, corporate events are anything but boring.
Kingstar Media hosted a 1920s-themed speakeasy
6. Summer garden soirée at Evergreen Brick Works
In August, Toronto Life in partnership with Tricon brought 600 guests together for a midsummer night under the stars at the city’s iconic Evergreen Brick Works. The event featured candlelit cocktails, lush floral installations, live performances by DJ Jon Daniels and The Sonority Sisters, plus curated garden-themed food, all designed to immerse attendees in the garden soirée vibe. The historic venue—a former brick factory located among the city’s ravines—provided natural charm and a storytelling backdrop. While the event celebrated the best of Toronto, the party offered a simple takeaway: a great venue and attention to detail are what makes an event unforgettable.
