Homecoming
A New Standard for Tech Gatherings
For years, Toronto’s tech scene felt like it was stuck in the boardroom. We’ve all been there—stiff networking sessions, lukewarm coffee, and endless panels that could have been emails. Homecoming, returning for its second annual edition on May 27, is the antithesis of that experience. By choosing History as its home base, the event signals a shift in how our city’s builders, founders, and innovators want to connect. This isn't just a conference; it’s a high-octane collision of ideas designed to feel more like a festival than a trade show.
The Venue: Why History Matters
It’s impossible to talk about Homecoming without talking about the venue. History, located at 1663 Queen St E, is arguably the best thing to happen to Toronto’s live music scene in the last decade. Backed by Drake and operated by Live Nation, the space was designed with acoustics and sightlines in mind, offering a tiered floor plan that ensures you’re never stuck behind a pillar. By hosting 1,000 of Canada’s brightest minds here, the organizers are leaning into the 'experience' economy. The industrial-chic aesthetic, the state-of-the-art sound system, and the sheer vibe of the room force a different kind of conversation—one that is faster, bolder, and significantly more memorable than anything you’d find in the basement of a downtown hotel.
Connecting the Ecosystem
Toronto Tech Week isn't just a series of events; it’s a showcase of the city’s global ambition. Homecoming acts as the gravitational pull for this week, drawing in talent from across the country. Whether you are deep in the trenches of AI research, building the next big fintech solution, or scaling a SaaS startup, the programming is curated to move beyond the surface level. Expect deep-dive conversations that tackle the specific challenges of the Canadian market—like talent retention, scaling globally from a local base, and navigating the current venture capital climate. The goal is to turn the 'brain drain' narrative on its head by proving that you don't need to move to Silicon Valley to build something world-class.
Exploring the Neighbourhood
History sits right in the heart of Leslieville, one of Toronto’s most charming and rapidly evolving neighbourhoods. If you’re coming in from out of town or just looking to escape the tech bubble for an hour, you are in the right place. Before the event, grab a world-class espresso at Pilot Coffee Roasters nearby. If you’re looking for a post-event debrief, skip the hotel bar and head to one of the local gems. The area is packed with incredible spots like Poor Romeo for a casual drink and some of the best fried chicken in the city, or the more refined offerings at Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice Restaurant—a local institution that lives up to its name. Leslieville has a gritty, creative soul that perfectly complements the innovative spirit of Homecoming.
Good to Know
- **Getting There:** History is located on Queen Street East. If you’re taking transit, the 501 Queen streetcar is your best bet, though it can be slow during rush hour. If you’re coming from downtown, consider taking the GO Train to Danforth Station and grabbing a quick Uber or a 15-minute walk down to the lake.
- **Dress Code:** Leave the stiff suit at home. The vibe at History is 'tech-casual'—think elevated streetwear or smart-casual. You want to look professional, but you also want to be comfortable enough to navigate a standing-room-only crowd.
- **Networking Strategy:** With 1,000 attendees, the venue will be buzzing. Don't just stick to your circle. The tiered layout of History creates natural 'pockets' for conversation—use the mezzanine levels if you need a slightly quieter space to exchange contact info.
