The Weeknd’s Emotional Return to Toronto: 6 Best Moments From Night 1 at Rogers Centre
TORONTO — It was more than just a concert. The Weeknd’s return to his hometown on July 27 at Rogers Centre felt like a cinematic homecoming, filled with drama, visual spectacle, heartfelt emotion — and a full arena of fans who welcomed him with open arms. From theatrical staging to civic honors, here are six standout moments from Night 1 of his Toronto tour stop.
1. A Grand, Mysterious Entrance
The show opened with a slow-burning build — “The Abyss,” “Wake Me Up,” and “After Hours” laid the sonic groundwork. As dancers cloaked like red druids took the stage, Abel Tesfaye appeared masked in gold, his identity slowly revealed only after several songs. It wasn’t until he launched into “Starboy” that the veil lifted — literally and emotionally.
2. The Futuristic Stage That Took Over the Arena
The stage design was immersive and symbolic: a cross-shaped catwalk extended into the crowd, with a massive chrome statue — a robotic goddess created by Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama — dominating the center. Lights strobed in time with Daft Punk beats, and fans were drawn into a world that was equal parts sci-fi fantasy and emotional release.
3. The Mask Comes Off — and the Tears Come On
As Tesfaye finally removed his gold mask to reveal his face, the arena erupted. He smiled wide, visibly choked up. “Well that’s a warm welcome home, isn’t it?” he told the crowd, eyes misting over. The moment stretched into a minute-long ovation — not just for the music, but for what The Weeknd means to Toronto.
4. Toronto Declares ‘Weeknd Weekend’
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow made the night even more special by officially proclaiming it “Weeknd Weekend.” In a private ceremony the day before the concert, she presented Tesfaye with the Key to the City, honoring not only his global music success but his philanthropy and community support at home.
“Born in Toronto, Abel ‘The Weeknd’ Tesfaye represents the best of our city,” said Mayor Chow.
“I am proud to honor one of our city’s greatest artists.”
5. Giving Back Where It All Began
In partnership with Live Nation, Tesfaye is revitalizing the basketball court at his old school (Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute), funding a media arts and robotics lab, and launching a mobile recording studio for the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough. His love for the city goes far beyond the spotlight — it’s deeply rooted in local growth.
6. A Humanitarian At Heart
Beyond Toronto, The Weeknd continues to use his platform for global good. His XO Humanitarian Fund has provided:
- $2 million in aid to Ethiopia
- $4.5 million to Gaza for hunger relief
- Ongoing support for creatives via HXOUSE, a Toronto incubator he co-founded
This wasn’t just a concert — it was a masterclass in how music, art, and giving back can intersect powerfully.
Did you attend The Weeknd’s Toronto show or catch a moment that stood out to you? Share your favorite part of the concert at ChicagoMusicGuide.com — we want to hear from fellow fans!