Winter Stations 2026 Unveiling: Mirage

Prepare to be enchanted as Winter Stations returns for its twelfth year, officially unveiling the 2026 installations this Family Day Monday, February 16, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM! Join us down on Woodbine Beach for a spectacular showcase of public art that promises to challenge your perceptions and ignite your imagination.

This year’s theme, “Mirage,” invites attendees to delve into a world where what is seen and what is real beautifully intertwine. Five groundbreaking designs have been selected, each offering a unique interpretation of the theme and transforming the winter landscape into a gallery of wonder. From the moment you arrive, you'll be immersed in a thoughtful exploration of perception, space, and the ephemeral beauty of art in a natural setting. The installations, including Chimera, Glaciate, Specularia, Crest, and Embrace, are strategically placed along the iconic Woodbine Beach, offering a stunning backdrop of Lake Ontario.

We warmly encourage individuals, families, and art enthusiasts of all ages to come and celebrate these incredible pieces of public art. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to engage with innovative design, enjoy the winter beach environment, and create lasting memories. A special walking tour will kick off the event at 11:00 AM, beginning at the 'Chimera' installation, providing an intimate first look and deeper insight into the artists' visions.

Beyond merely viewing the art, we invite you to participate in our returning collaborative Winter Stations photo contest! Presented by @winter.stations, @eastendartsto, and @makewaves.to, this contest challenges community members to capture the essence of this year’s installations through their lens. To enter, simply take a photo or multiple photos with the 2026 Winter Stations installations and share them on Instagram using the hashtag #WinterStations2026. This is your chance to showcase your creativity and perspective, contributing to a vibrant community celebration of art and photography.

There are fantastic prizes awaiting the most creative photographers! The first-place winner will receive Winter Stations merchandise valued at $50, along with a $70 gift card to a local Beach BIA restaurant, perfect for enjoying the local culinary scene. The second-place winner will also be awarded Winter Stations merchandise, valued at $20, complemented by a $70 gift card to a local Beach BIA restaurant. Additionally, eight honorable mentions will be selected for their exceptional and creative approaches to photographing the stations, recognizing a wide range of artistic talent.

To ensure your eligibility for these exciting prizes, please make sure you are following @winter.stations, @eastendartsto, and @thebeachbia on Instagram. The installations will be on display from their unveiling on February 16th until March 30th, 2026, allowing ample time for everyone to visit and participate. Winners of the photo contest will be carefully chosen and announced on social media by the end of April 2026.

Winter Stations is more than just an art exhibition; it's a community event that brings people together to appreciate creativity, foster engagement, and highlight the beauty of Toronto’s waterfront in the colder months. Come down to the beach this winter, witness the transformative power of art, and perhaps even win a prize for your photographic skills!