TORONTO (AP) — The Weeknd, born Abel Tesfaye, was awarded a key to the city of Toronto over the weekend, ahead of his four concerts at Rogers Centre. The artist, deeply connected to the Ontario capital where he grew up, received the honor in recognition of his significant contributions to the community.
According to a press release on the city’s official website, Mayor Olivia Chow praised Tesfaye, stating he “represents the best of our city.” She highlighted his $500,000 donation to the Scarborough Health Network during the COVID-19 pandemic and his contributions to the University of Toronto’s Ethiopian Studies program. Tesfaye is also the co-founder of HXOUSE, a non-profit organization that supports aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs.
“From Scarborough to the global stage, he has reshaped modern music while using his platform to support health and humanitarian causes at home and around the world,” Chow said. “I am proud to honor one of our city’s greatest artists with a Key to the City to celebrate his contributions to music, society, and our culture.”
In a statement, Tesfaye expressed his gratitude: “I’m deeply honored to receive the Key to the City. It feels good to be home. Toronto is where I found my voice, and I’m committed to helping the next generation find theirs.”
Tesfaye also announced his support for the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough and his former high school, Birchmount Park, aiming to provide youth “with the means to unlock their full potential.”
Following the ceremony, Tesfaye began his After Hours ‘Til Dawn Tour performances in Toronto, with shows at Rogers Centre on July 27 and 28. To mark his homecoming, Mayor Chow declared the weekend of the 26th and 27th as “Weeknd Weekend” citywide.
After performing in the U.S., Tesfaye will return to Rogers Centre for two additional shows on Aug. 7 and 8. The tour promotes his album trilogy: After Hours (2020), Dawn FM (2022), and Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025), all of which reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200.