#FIRSTLOOK: THE SECOND CITY PARTICIPATES DOORS OPEN 2026

The world’s most influential name in live comedy, The Second City, is proud to participate in Doors Open Toronto 2026, welcoming guests of all ages inside its iconic Harbourfront home for a free, all-access weekend of comedy, culture, and behind-the-scenes discovery.

On Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., guests are invited to discover the funniest destination at Doors Open Toronto. Step inside our three theatres, training centre, and the creative legacy that has shaped generations of legendary comedic performers, including Gilda Radner, John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Mike Myers, Colin Mochrie, Ann Pornel, Alan Shane Lewis, Gavin Crawford, Lauren Ash, and so many more…

WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR

The “John Candy Way” exhibit.
Explore artifacts and memorabilia celebrating one of Toronto’s most beloved comedy icons.
Brand-new Catherine O’Hara tribute.
Featuring never-before-seen photos from The Second City Toronto stage, offering a rare glimpse into the early work of a comedy legend.
The Great White North Immersive Experience
Step inside a faithful recreation of the SCTV Bob and Doug McKenzie set.

ALL-DAY PROGRAMMING

Guests are encouraged to drop in, hang out, and enjoy a curated lineup of screenings and comedy content playing throughout the building:

“I Like Me” John Candy Documentary (in the John Candy Box Theatre)
“SCTV in ’73” Classic episodes of the legendary TV show (Sunday only)
“Inventing Improv: A Documentary on Viola Spolin” (screened in the Training Centre)
Mainstage Archives — classic sketches from decades of Second City revues
Camp Candy Cartoons — Saturday morning nostalgia on the big screen

Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a curious first-timer, or just looking for something fun and funny to do in the city, this is a rare chance to experience The Second City from the inside out.

EVENT DETAILS
May 23 & 24, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Second City Toronto, One York Street, 3rd Floor

Admission: Free

Guests are encouraged to share their experience using #DOT26.

About The Second City

The Second City first brought its iconic improv and sketch comedy to Toronto in 1963 for a week of performances at the Royal Alexandra Theatre. After a decade of sold-out shows at the 1200-seat theatre, The Second City established a permanent home in the city with the opening of “The Old Firehall” on Lombard Street. In 1976, The Second City Toronto further solidified its place in comedy history by creating the groundbreaking television show SCTV.

In December 2022, The Second City raised the curtain on its state-of-the-art facility at One York Street. This move introduced three distinct theatres: The Mainstage, Theatre ’73, and The John Candy Box Theatre, each offering nightly performances that continue The Second City’s tradition of bringing people together through laughter.