Toronto’s newest cultural district was officially inaugurated Saturday in North York, bringing joy and excitement to the Iranian community in the city.

Persian-Canadians, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Coun. Lily Cheng (Willowdale) joined together at Centre Park to unveil Little Iran’s sign.

“On this Thanksgiving weekend, I want to show my gratitude to the Iranian community for coming together, celebrating,” Chow said Saturday. “Today is really a historic day.”

Centre Park was filled with live music, dancing, Persian food and desserts and art shows Saturday afternoon. But, soon, the park will also host its very own Persian garden.

Afkham Mardukhi, president of the settlement organization Intercultural Iranian Canadian Resource Centre, said the acknowledgement is truly significant.

“We

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