The Sugar Maple will be Toronto's 2027 Tree of the Year, chosen by the city's children in a weekend vote that drew more than 10,000 ballots.
The winning tree received 4,549 votes, according to a City of Toronto news release. Toronto Elections announced the results on October 22 following Kids Vote Weekend, held Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 at 50 advance voting places across the city.
A five-way race for the canopy
Young voters could choose from five candidates: Basswood, Paper Birch, Red Oak, Sugar Maple and White Pine.
The Sugar Maple is native to Toronto and known for its vibrant red, orange and yellow fall colours. According to the City, its large canopy provides shade, helps cool neighbourhoods, supports local wildlife and contributes to cleaner air and healthier communities.
Kids Vote Weekend is a program aimed at growing future voters, teaching children about local democracy and giving them early exposure to key parts of the voting process. An official breakdown of the results is posted on the City's Kids Vote Weekend webpage.
Ceremonial planting at Elm Park
To celebrate the winner, a ceremonial Sugar Maple planting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to noon at Elm Park, 230 Gosford Blvd. The City says participation details are available on the Elm Park Tree Planting Event webpage.
1,000 new Sugar Maples in 2027
The tree's year in the spotlight will come with roots in the ground. Throughout 2027, the City plans to plant 1,000 Sugar Maple trees on public land across Toronto through community planting events, school programs and tree giveaway initiatives.
Schools will also be able to receive free Sugar Maple trees to plant on their own grounds, the release said.
More information is available on the City's Tree of the Year webpage. The results also come ahead of Toronto's 2026 municipal election, with details on the Toronto Elections webpage.
