Liberty Grand is one of the top wedding venues in the GTA. Its classic elegance, reasonable cost per person, excellent services, great food and location make this one of the most sought-after event spaces in Toronto.
According to Liberty Grand, in 2025, the wedding associated cost is between $120 and $150 per person and includes an open bar and the rental of the venue. For premium packages, prices can go up to $200 per person, depending on customization and additional services
Offseason weddings between January and March receive a 10% discount. Also, Friday and Sunday weddings receive the same special pricing.
I need to mention the establishment offers probably the best value you will get in the GTA and that is the reason Liberty Grand is in very high demand. The packages include rental of the hall, sound equipment (most places charge extra for this), servers, bartenders, standard 8 hours bar, wedding coordinator, bridal suite, tasting for the couple and some other extras. There is very little else for which you pay extra (dress, officiant, photographer, etc.), and that gives couples peace of mind.
According to our study the place is among the top 50 most desirable wedding venues in the GTA. The establishment does over 200 marriages a year and as you can imagine, the staff is expert in making your special day... really special.
On average 210 couples are interested in getting married at Liberty Grand on a monthly basis, with January being the month with the highest number of searches.
As most engagements happen during the winter holidays, most couples look for a wedding venue in January.
If you are getting married here, you don't need a photography permit. Still, given that the establishment often hosts two or even three marriages at the same time, please check with your wedding coordinator how much time you have available for photography.
If the weather is cooperating, you might want to have an outdoor ceremony in the triangular courtyard. I documented events in the courtyard from April to October and when it is a bit cold you have the option of having tall gas heaters brought to keep your guests warm. The long aisle will allow us to take plenty of images during the processional and recessional.
Capable of hosting 200-400 people, the photogenic courtyard boasts a fountain, statues, greenery and provides an oasis of tranquillity right in the heart of the city. That makes it a perfect setting for wedding ceremonies.
If you are getting married in the winter, any of the banquet halls can host your indoor wedding ceremony.
Located minutes from downtown core alongside Lake Shore Boulevard, Liberty Grand or CNE Ontario Building is a fantastic location for wedding photography.
The courtyard offers a photographer perfect backdrops. Because it is surrounded by relatively tall buildings, many parts of the courtyard receive an even diffused light, which is ideal for photography. Even more, the darker walls create splendid backdrops and make you stand out in your white wedding dress.
Please note that in the summer it is common to have two or three weddings the same day. As such, if you want to take pictures in the courtyard, please discuss the possibility with your coordinator and plan accordingly.
The massive entrance doors are perfect for romantic sunset photographs such as the one below captured in front of the Renaissance Hall entrance. Facing west, this spot is ideal for golden hour pictures of the couple.
The best part? You will not spend more than 5 minutes taking photos before sunset.
All three halls exhibit a classic elegance and feature massive crystal chandeliers, which look amazing in wedding photos. The massive windows provide the ideal light or backdrop for your bridal portraits.
At night, the whole building and the courtyard are lit with beautiful uplighting and become a luxurious backdrop for your wedding images. Here is where we can create splendid environmental portraits of you and your husband.
Given its proximity to Lake Ontario, we can go take a few shots by the lake to give you a more variety of photos. Also, you might want to have a first look either in the courtyard or somewhere in downtown if you chose to get ready at one of the hotels in the financial district.
Quite a few couples want to do a photo shoot in the Distillery District or the University of Toronto. If that is the case, please allow extra travel time as downtown and the Gardiner Highway could be busy on the weekends.
In the past I noticed multiple marriages occurring at the same time so please make backup plans for your wedding portraits session and family photos, especially if you intend to use the common areas such as the courtyard.
If the weather cooperates, the courtyard is your first choice when it comes to group photographs. Even if it is a bit cold, you can have tall gas heaters brought in so that your guests keep warm.
If you are getting married in the Renaissance or Centennial halls, you have access to the Dome placed at the south of the building and features four interior waterfalls. Any of them can be used as a backdrop for smaller group photographs up to 10 people. The image of
The three halls have air-conditioned foyers where we can take group photos and your family and guests could enjoy the delicious hors-d'oeuvres and a drink during the cocktail hour.
If you are getting ready in one of the hotels in downtown (King Edward Hotel or One King West Hotel), you could have a first look by St. James Cathedral and a short photo shoot in St. James Park.
U of T, Distillery District and Lake Ontario are also good choices for a first look and High Park is 3 km from the establishment.
The interior courtyard is also a perfect location for a private first look and a photo shoot.
Because the complex is situated in near downtown, you can choose a multitude of places to have your first look.
The complex is one of the busiest in town hosting about 220 weddings a year! The four breathtaking banquet halls are in such high demand that you want to book hall at least 12 months in advance. Please note that a minimum 150 guests is required.
Receptions are hosted in the Governor's, Artifacts, Renaissance or Centennial Room. While the very high ceilings create a challenge for many photographers, the establishment has beautiful spotlights illuminating the head-table the cake and the dance floor for the first dance and parent dances.
This is the largest banquet hall in the 100,000 square feet complex. The grand ballroom can accommodate between 300 and 800 guests in a sit-down dinner setup or up to 1500 people if you are having a cocktail party.
The hall boasts 27' ceilings adorned with splendid chandeliers that will give the place a romantic atmosphere during the dinner.
A massive oak staircase overlooking the courtyard and the dining area is a great spot to take photographs of the whole hall or a large group photo of all your friends, family and guests.
The luxurious banquet halls (~14,000 sq. ft) boast splendid views of Lake Ontario through its floor to ceiling arched windows and are mirror images of each other.
Both halls have their own private foyer that can host your cocktail hour. Also, you have access to the southern Dome surrounded by four interior waterfalls where you can take group photographs.
The Renaissance and Centennial rooms can accommodate up to 400 people for a sit-down dinner setting.
If you book the Governor's, Centennial or Renaissance halls, I recommend purchasing a package that includes uplighting as it emphasizes the splendid Beaux Art architecture and your photos will look great.
The Artifacts hall boasts 20,000 square feet of minimalist, open space, contemporary space and often hosts fashion shows, TIFF opening nights, fundraisings and more.
It can accommodate up to 1200 guests should you have a reception style wedding and about 200-600 in a banquet style setup. The Artifacts hall boasts state of the art sound and lighting systems and is perfect for a non-traditional wedding in a space with a modern flair.
All the furniture and fixtures can be moved so you can design your floor plan with no restrictions. The uplighting and polished concrete floor gives the space a modern look.
The space has a private terrace and a lobby that it shares with the grand ballroom.
The food is delicious and you can select among seven packages that include an 8 hour standard bar (you can upgrade to a premium bar). Please note that the establishment is allowed to serve alcohol between 11:00 am and 1:00 am.
The two Executive Chefs, Michael Ewing and Daniel Pointe have an impressive resume and "bring to the table" over 50 years in the industry at some of the most prestigious restaurants and hotels in town.
You have plenty of options including Mediterranean or vegan and the chefs can even design ethnic menus. Here is a complete list of wedding packages. Please keep in mind that the menu can be changed and you can substitute dishes for similar value alternatives.
The children's menu is $27 per person.
There are four complimentary bridal suites upstairs and you are welcomed with a bottle of sparkling wine and chocolate dipped strawberries.
There are 1500 parking spots available on the north and east grounds and you could book parking through the establishment at a discounted rate. A staff member will direct your guests to the parking lot.
If you desire valet parking, please discuss that with your coordinator and they will be happy to oblige.
There is a parking lot for persons with disabilities on Yukon Place, at the southern entrance. Your guests can also use it for drop off and pickup.
There is always a security team on premises and they deal with potential wedding crashers. Also, the main entrances are self locking though one can enjoy a cigar and a drink in the courtyard.
Planning a wedding at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex requires attention to detail and proper timing. This section will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your wedding day unfolds perfectly at this magnificent venue.
Due to the Liberty Grand's popularity as one of Toronto's premier wedding venues, securing your date well in advance is crucial. Most couples book their wedding 12-18 months before their desired date, especially for Saturday events during peak season (May through October).
- 12-18 months before: Tour the venue and secure your date with a deposit - 9-12 months before: Select your menu and begin working with the venue coordinator - 6-9 months before: Attend a food tasting and finalize menu selections - 3-6 months before: Confirm your floor plan and timeline - 1-2 months before: Finalize guest count and details with your coordinator - 2-4 weeks before: Final walkthrough and payment
The booking process begins with an initial consultation and tour of the Liberty Grand. During this visit, you'll have the opportunity to see the different spaces available and discuss your vision with the venue's team. Once you've selected your preferred date and space, a deposit is required to secure your booking, typically ranging from 10-25% of the estimated total cost.
One of the significant advantages of choosing the Liberty Grand for your wedding is the inclusion of a professional wedding coordinator in your package. These experienced professionals know every aspect of the venue and can provide invaluable guidance throughout your planning process.
Your assigned coordinator will serve as your primary point of contact with the venue and will assist with: - Floor plan design and seating arrangements - Menu selection and dietary accommodations - Timeline development for the wedding day - Coordination with your external vendors - Day-of logistics and troubleshooting
While the venue coordinator focuses primarily on venue-related aspects of your wedding, many couples also choose to hire a separate wedding planner who can assist with broader elements of wedding planning, including design concepts, vendor selection, and personal assistance throughout the day.
For the most seamless experience, schedule regular check-ins with your venue coordinator as your wedding date approaches. These meetings will ensure that all details are addressed and that your vision for the day is clearly communicated to the venue team.
The Liberty Grand works with numerous talented vendors who are familiar with the venue's spaces and requirements. While you're welcome to bring in your own vendors, working with professionals who have experience at the venue can streamline your planning process.
- Wedding photographer who understands the venue's lighting and best photo locations. If you are looking for a reliable and talented team we are here for you.
- Florist who can enhance the venue's architectural features
- DJ or band familiar with the acoustics of the space
- Cake designer who can create a centerpiece worthy of the elegant surroundings
- Decor specialists who can transform the space to match your vision
When selecting vendors, ask if they have previously worked at the Liberty Grand. Those with prior experience will be familiar with the venue's layout, loading procedures, and timing requirements, which can prevent logistical challenges on your wedding day.
The venue requires that all external vendors provide proof of insurance and sign venue agreements. Your coordinator can provide specific requirements and deadlines for vendor documentation.
The Liberty Grand's architectural beauty and versatile spaces offer numerous opportunities to create a truly memorable wedding experience. Here are some tips to make the most of this stunning venue:
- Consider adding uplighting to highlight the venue's architectural details - For evening events, incorporate candles (where permitted) to enhance the romantic atmosphere - Take advantage of the natural light through the arched windows for daytime events
- If weather permits, use the courtyard for your ceremony or cocktail hour - Plan your event timeline to allow guests to experience different spaces within the venue - Consider sunset timing when planning outdoor portions of your event
- Work with the venue's existing elegance rather than trying to completely transform it - Focus decor budget on key focal points like the head table, entrance, and ceremony area - Use the venue's crystal chandeliers as a starting point for your decor theme
- Provide clear directions and parking information to guests - Consider transportation options for guests staying at downtown hotels - Take advantage of the venue's multiple spaces to create distinct experiences throughout the event
The Liberty Grand offers a different experience depending on the season, and understanding these differences can help you plan accordingly:
Spring (April-June)
- Beautiful blooming gardens in the courtyard - Comfortable temperatures for outdoor ceremonies - Popular season with limited availability
Summer (July-August)
- Warm weather perfect for outdoor cocktail hours - Longer daylight hours for extended photography sessions - Consider air conditioning and cooling needs for guest comfort
Fall (September-November)
- Stunning foliage as a backdrop for outdoor photos - Comfortable temperatures with less humidity - Early sunset times to consider for timeline planning
Winter (December-March)
- Festive atmosphere during holiday season - Opportunity for dramatic lighting and cozy atmosphere - Reduced rates during off-peak season - Indoor ceremonies in the beautiful ballrooms
By understanding the unique aspects of planning a wedding at the Liberty Grand and working closely with your venue coordinator, you can create a celebration that perfectly reflects your vision while taking full advantage of everything this exceptional venue has to offer.
Depending on your guests budgets, you can find plenty of good hotels in the area. For example,Gladstone Hotel (4.3* out of 5* on Google) is only 1.4 km away. Also, Hilton Garden Inn is 4 km from the venue. For more discerning guests, King Edward (4.5* on Google and 6.7 km away) or One King West Hotels (4.3* and 5.5km away) would be a great choice.
You can check availability and book a room here:
Because of its size, the complex offers plenty of opportunities for photography. Still, for outdoor photography, werecommend avoiding the period between 10 am and 2 pm.
The best time to photograph in the GTA is during the golden hour (1 hour before the sunset.)
According to www.golden-hour.com. here are the time slots that offer perfect lighting by month.
Evening Golden Hour by Month
| Month | Evening Golden Hour |
| January | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. |
| February | 4:40 - 5:40 p.m. |
| March | 6:20 - 7:20 p.m. |
| April | 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. |
| May | 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. |
| June | 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. |
| July | 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. |
| August | 7:20 - 8:20 p.m. |
| September | 6:20 - 7:20 p.m. |
| October | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. |
| November | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. |
| December | 3:40 - 4:40 p.m. |
If all halls are booked, the only places that come close to the grandeur of Liberty Grand are Casa Loma (at a higher price tag), King Edward and One King West.
The triangular magnificent heritage Beaux Art building opened in 1926 and maintains its original character. In 2001 the building was completely renovated.
If you dream of getting married in a historic building in downtown, this could be your location. Originally opened as an exhibit site for the Government of Ontario during the Canadian National Exhibition. In 2001, the Liberty Grand Entertainment group won right to lease the building for 20 years to use it for weddings and private events. The group already hosted about 4,000 weddings and the service quality here is always exceptional.
The complex is on the shore of Lake Ontario, which provides nice areas for wedding photography and where we can take your photographs there if you want.
Among the movies filmed at the Liberty Grand also known as CNE Ontario Government Building are The Perfect Man, Three to Tango, The Strain, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days and more.
The official address of the CNE Ontario Government Building& is 25 British Columbia Rd., Toronto, ON, M6K 3C3
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide!
Here is a slideshow with highlights of the big day.
The Liberty Grand offers comprehensive wedding services including venue rental, catering, bar service, event coordination, audio-visual equipment, and decor options. Facilities include multiple grand ballrooms (Governor's Room, Renaissance Room, Centennial Room, Artifacts Room), an outdoor courtyard, private foyers, bridal suites, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.
The Liberty Grand is classified as a historic ballroom and banquet hall venue. It combines classic architectural elements with modern amenities in a waterfront setting.
The venue features a classic, elegant style with Beaux-Arts architecture. It offers a timeless elegance with crystal chandeliers, ornate moldings, hardwood floors, and grand entrances. The style can be described as glamorous, vintage, and sophisticated with a touch of old-world charm.
The Liberty Grand offers beautiful views of Lake Ontario from its Renaissance and Centennial Rooms through floor-to-ceiling arched windows. The venue is situated in Exhibition Place with scenic surroundings and landscaped grounds.
Built in 1926, the Liberty Grand is one of Toronto's few heritage complexes. Originally constructed as part of Exhibition Place, this magnificent Beaux-Arts building has been meticulously maintained and restored to preserve its historic charm while offering modern amenities for today's weddings.
The Liberty Grand can accommodate groups ranging from 100 to 1000 guests for seated dinners with dance floors. For cocktail-style receptions, capacity increases up to 1500 guests in the Governor's Room. The entire facility can host up to 4000 guests if all spaces are combined.
- Governor's Room: 300-800 guests (seated dinner with dance floor), up to 1500 (cocktail reception) - Renaissance Room: Up to 300 guests (seated dinner with dance floor) - Centennial Room: Up to 300 guests (seated dinner with dance floor) - Artifacts Room: Up to 300 guests (seated dinner with dance floor), up to 900 (cocktail reception) - Courtyard: 200-400 guests (ceremony or reception)
While the Liberty Grand does not offer on-site accommodations, there are numerous hotels in downtown Toronto within a short drive. Many couples arrange room blocks at nearby hotels and sometimes provide shuttle transportation for guests. Popular options include Hotel X Toronto, which is within walking distance, as well as various downtown hotels.
Wedding packages at the Liberty Grand typically range from $120 to $150 per person, depending on the day of the week, season, and specific services selected. This pricing includes venue rental, catering, bar service, and basic amenities. Off-season weddings (January-March) and Friday/Sunday weddings often receive discounted pricing, approximately 10% less than peak season Saturday events.
If you're hosting both your ceremony and reception at the Liberty Grand, the ceremony fee is typically around $1,500-$2,000 depending on the location and setup requirements. This fee covers the ceremony space, basic chairs, and setup/teardown.
Yes, the Liberty Grand accepts bookings typically 12-18 months in advance. To secure your date, a signed contract and deposit (usually 10-25% of the estimated total) are required. Due to high demand, especially for Saturday events during peak season (May-October), early booking is strongly recommended.
The Liberty Grand offers four main indoor spaces and one outdoor space: - Governor's Room: The largest ballroom with a grand oak staircase - Renaissance Room: Features floor-to-ceiling arched windows with lake views - Centennial Room: Mirror image of the Renaissance Room with lake views - Artifacts Room: A unique space with distinctive architectural elements - Courtyard: An outdoor space with a fountain, statues, and greenery
Ceremonies can be held in: - The Courtyard: A beautiful outdoor option for spring through fall weddings - Any of the ballrooms: Can be transformed for ceremonies and then reset for receptions - The Dome area: A unique indoor space with waterfalls for more intimate ceremonies
The Liberty Grand offers both indoor and outdoor settings: - Indoor: Elegant ballrooms with high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and architectural details - Outdoor: The courtyard provides an uncovered outdoor space with historic architecture as a backdrop
The Liberty Grand offers customizable wedding packages that typically include: - Venue rental for ceremony and/or reception - Tables, chairs, and standard linens - Fine bone china and elegant glassware - Professional serving staff and bartenders - Complimentary menu tasting for the couple - Bridal suite access - Full bar service (typically 8 hours) - Basic sound equipment - Wedding coordinator assistance
Packages can be customized with additional services and upgrades based on your preferences and budget.
The Liberty Grand provides in-house catering with various dining styles: - Plated service: Formal multi-course meals - Buffet style: Diverse selection of dishes - Family style: Shared platters at each table - Food stations: Interactive culinary experiences - Cocktail reception: Passed hors d'oeuvres and stationed appetizers
The culinary team can accommodate various dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and religious dietary restrictions.
Bar options include: - Standard open bar (included in most packages) - Premium open bar (upgrade option) - Signature cocktails customized for your event - Wine service during dinner - Champagne toast - Specialty beer options
Bar packages typically include professional bartenders, glassware, and a selection of spirits, wines, and beers.
The Liberty Grand includes a professional wedding coordinator in their packages who will assist with: - Floor plan design and seating arrangements - Menu selection and dietary accommodations - Timeline development for the wedding day - Coordination with your external vendors - Day-of logistics and troubleshooting
This coordinator focuses primarily on venue-related aspects of your wedding.
Decor and lighting options include: - Custom uplighting to highlight architectural features - Specialty linens and chair covers - Centerpiece options - Floral arrangement services - Custom backdrop for the head table - Ceiling treatments and drapery
The venue's existing architectural features and crystal chandeliers provide a beautiful foundation for additional decor elements.
What are the audiovisual facilities available at Liberty Grand for wedding events?
The Liberty Grand offers: - Basic sound equipment for ceremonies and receptions - Microphones for speeches - Platform stage with lighting system - Capabilities for slideshows and video presentations - DJ hookups and power requirements - Spotlights for key areas like the head table, cake table, and dance floor
Outdoor photo opportunities include: - The courtyard with its fountain, statues, and greenery - The grand entrance doors and surrounding architecture - Lake Ontario waterfront, just a short walk from the venue - Exhibition Place grounds with gardens and architectural features - Sunset photos at the Renaissance Hall entrance, which faces west
Indoor photo locations include: - Under the crystal chandeliers in any of the ballrooms - The grand oak staircase in the Governor's Room - The Dome area with its four interior waterfalls - The private foyers with elegant furnishings - Arched windows with natural light in the Renaissance and Centennial Rooms
The Liberty Grand can accommodate various entertainment options: - DJ services (either through preferred vendors or your choice) - Live bands with proper staging - String quartets or acoustic performers for ceremonies and cocktail hours - Dance floor lighting and effects - Space for photo booths and other interactive entertainment - Microphones and sound systems for speeches and announcements
The Liberty Grand has access to ample parking within Exhibition Place. Depending on other events in the area, specific lots may be designated for your wedding guests. Valet parking can also be arranged for an additional fee. Your wedding coordinator can provide the most up-to-date parking information for your specific date.
Transportation options include: - Private vehicle parking at Exhibition Place lots - Taxi and rideshare services - Public transit via TTC streetcar - Private shuttle services (can be arranged from downtown hotels) - Chartered buses for larger groups
The Liberty Grand hosts beautiful weddings year-round, but different seasons offer unique advantages: - May through October: Peak season with options for outdoor ceremonies in the courtyard - December: Festive atmosphere with holiday decorations - January through March: Off-season discounts and availability - April, November: Shoulder season with more availability and moderate weather
The venue is climate-controlled for comfort in all seasons, with heating in winter and air conditioning in summer.
The Liberty Grand can accommodate various wedding types and traditions: - Traditional Western ceremonies - Cultural and religious ceremonies of various traditions - LGBTQ+ celebrations - Elopements and intimate weddings (with minimum guest requirements) - Grand celebrations and galas - Combined ceremony and reception events - Reception-only events
The venue's versatile spaces can be adapted to honor different cultural traditions and personal preferences.
Disclaimer: the information in this article can change. Please check with the establishment for the latest pricing and availability.
