A first-of-its-kind 9-square-metre (100-square-foot) mural of vinyl album covers and grooves that showcase historical Toronto scenes. Artist David Heard blends heritage, music and art into a vibrant installation. On view on the café level of Aurora Town Square, it offers an uplifting, visually dynamic interpretation of the city’s layered history.

Discover creative techniques at Shining Hill Visual Arts Studio, presented by the Aurora Cultural Centre. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., join Andrea Chan and Leila Ahmadi to explore sustainable art techniques like fabric sculpting, liquid polymer and textile reuse. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Helen Walter, Eva Folks and Sara Tag explore acrylic painting materials, 3D texture processes and teaching approaches. 

Explore exhibitions throughout Aurora Town Square on a self-guided tour with docent support. Presented by the Aurora Cultural Centre, featured exhibitions include Arnie Lipsey: Past. Tense., Remix, and Tracey-Mae Chambers’ powerful textile installation addressing Canada’s opioid crisis. Visitors can also enjoy fibre-based outdoor art installations throughout the premises as part of Common Threads: Aurora Public Art Festival.

Join museum staff on the front lawn for an informal Q-and-A about the historic Church Street School, local history, exhibitions and collections. Learn about the Museum's strategic plan and its vision for the future, then step inside Aurora Town Square by entering through the building's iconic red doors to explore this historical community landmark.

Step behind the scenes at the Aurora Public Library. Discover how their modern book sorter keeps the library running smoothly. Enjoy this exclusive backroom experience and learn how it connects today’s technology with a rich history of innovation and service, dating back to 1855. Come and explore how they continue evolving to meet the needs of their vibrant community.

The 1926 Lorne fire engine will be parked outdoors at Aurora Town Square during Doors Open. Visitors can view this historical vehicle up close, capture a unique photo opportunity and learn about its role in the community’s firefighting heritage. Members of Central York Fire Services will be on site to answer questions and share insights into local fire service history.

Allyson Whitmell performs in the David De Simone Performance Hall. The Auroran singer-songwriter blends cinematic pop, intimate vocals and bold piano, drawing on classical training and musical theatre. With influences from Carole King and Sarah McLachlan, she shares storytelling-driven performances rooted in joy, healing and hope.

On view in the Nichols Family Foundation room, this exhibition explores the rich artistic traditions of Chinese culture through painting and calligraphy. Featuring high-quality reproductions of celebrated classical masterpieces alongside selected original works by contemporary artist Dr. Shiyong Wang, the exhibition highlights the enduring beauty, creativity and cultural significance of these art forms and traditions.

The Aurora Legion invites the community to gather at the flagpole for a traditional Drumhead Service at Aurora Cemetery. This solemn ceremony, rooted in military tradition, uses a drum as a symbolic altar for remembrance and reflection. Following the service, attendees are welcome to the Aurora Legion Branch, located at 105 Industrial Parkway North, for light refreshments.

Discover Hillary House National Historic Site, the Koffler Museum of Medicine, an immersive window into Aurora's past. This 1862 landmark blends striking Gothic Revival architecture with a fascinating collection of medical instruments and Victorian history. Wander beautifully preserved rooms, uncover stories of the families who lived and worked here and experience one of Canada's best preserved 19th century doctor's homes.

The Odd Fellows Block, centerpiece of three post-1887 fire buildings, gives the illusion of one grand structure. Purchased by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge 148 in 1887, it still hosts meetings upstairs while businesses occupy the street level. During Doors Open, step inside to explore the preserved meeting room and uncover its lasting legacy in Aurora’s story.

Join us at Micak Gallery for an interactive painting event. Participants are invited to sketch animals and magical creatures that artist Christopher Nelson will reinterpret and paint onto a piano destined for Aurora Town Square. Micak Gallery showcases Canadian contemporary artists through vibrant exhibitions and a curated boutique, with original art and crafts available for purchase.

Doors Open Aurora is excited to have the Pine Tree Potters’ Guild back. Come and tour the studio and watch members bring clay to life on the potter’s wheel and by hand-building techniques. All bowls made during the event will be donated to the Empty Bowls fundraiser in November, supporting local causes through creativity and community spirit.

This Gothic Revival inspired building is home to Aurora's Freemasons, known as the Rising Sun Lodge. Constructed in 1877 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, the building was purchased by the Masons in 1885. Visit the Rising Sun Lodge and discover exquisite murals that adorn the meeting room and learn more about this history of the building and the Masons that call it home. 

Constructed in 1887 following the great fire of the same year, this office block is a fine example of Ontario’s late-19th-century commercial vernacular style. Once part of the historical Syndicate Block, it reflects the town’s early retail growth, it now houses the Royal Rose Art Gallery & Gifts. A drum circle will be led by Glenn Marais from noon to 4 p.m.

Known locally as the Shoemaker's House, this early Wellington Street East residence was built in 1862 by shoemaker Joshua Hunt. A modest, Georgian-style, two-storey wood-frame home, the building features rare rooflines and fine craftsmanship. In 2024, it became home to the Saltbox Cafe, transforming the historical space into a warm, inviting hub where community and flavour meet.

Discover St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, a vibrant part of Aurora's heritage since the congregation was established in 1871. Explore the church’s rich history, architecture and enduring role in the community. Visitors can learn about generations of worship, service and fellowship while experiencing a welcoming space that has connected residents and supported community life for over 150 years.

Step inside St. Anne’s School, a beautifully restored Jacobean-style building. Constructed in 2008 as a private residence, it was transformed in 2023 into York Region’s first independent all-girls school. Along with structural upgrades and modern systems, there are striking architectural features — gables, parapets, chimneys and intricate brickwork. The result is an inspiring space for learning, designed with intention and care.

Join lifelong Auroran David Heard for his passionate gift of sharing history and tales of resilience. Heritage, hope, and harmony mesh into lore of uniqueness and linger in your thoughts long after you return home. His dedicated research has uncovered inspiring sagas and inspired the preservation of important sites including the Aurora Pet Cemetery. Appropriate foot ware required. 

Trinity Anglican Church has stood on this site since 1846. The current one, built in 1884 in the Gothic revival style, features stained-glass windows, stenciled walls and ornate dormers. A new sanctuary was added in 2001. As Aurora’s finest example of Gothic church architecture, it blends historical charm with modern touches. Discover its rich legacy during Doors Open.