(Minghui.org) Many people stopped to watch the colorful parade in downtown Toronto on the afternoon of May 3, 2026. Falun Dafa practitioners from Toronto and surrounding areas held the event to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day. The procession continued for over four kilometers (2.5 miles), down Dundas Street to Spadina Avenue, College Street, and Yonge Street, before ending in Grange Park near Dundas Street.
Spectators on both sides of the parade route took photos and videos. Some talked with practitioners to learn about Falun Dafa and what the parade was about.
Parade on May 3 in Toronto to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day (Photos courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Tourists Commend the Parade
Maria (left) said she liked the Tian Guo Marching Band. (Photo courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Maria from Italy and her friend watched practitioners prepare for the parade. After listening to the Tian Guo Marching Band rehearse, she said, “Everyone is very well-coordinated; they are fantastic.” A practitioner explained that the parade was being held to celebrate the 34th anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction and that Falun Dafa teaches people to follow Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Maria said, “I think these values are important for the world. I will look at the website and learn more about Falun Dafa.”
Julia (Photo courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Julia from France works in the wine industry and was in Toronto on a business trip. Watching the parade, she said, “It’s beautiful, it’s lovely, and it’s well-organized, too. There are so many people!” She accepted a flyer and said she would share the celebration on her social media page. She added, “Congratulations on your anniversary celebration—it is always a wonderful thing when like-minded people come together.”
Residents Support Falun Dafa
Brandon said Falun Dafa is wonderful. (Photo courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Brandon is a software developer. After learning about Falun Dafa’s principles, he said, “I believe that ‘truth’ represents a form of transparency. When people are open and honest with one another, there can be greater kindness, because understanding has already been established. I think these are excellent principles.”
When Brandon heard, that despite the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) persecution that has gone on for 27 years, practitioners keep raising awareness of the human rights abuses, he said, “What you are doing is great. I believe you should be free to do whatever you want and not be persecuted. I believe that no political party should be allowed to interfere. Falun Dafa is peaceful and wonderful. I wish you good luck.”
Myles, who works in a bank, said he’d seen Falun Dafa parades in the past and knew about the CCP’s persecution in China. “I have great sympathy for you. My father is a sociology professor and studies China issues. He told me the persecution in China is ongoing,” he said. “Be strong. History tells us those who are persecuted will eventually gain their freedom.”
Doron wants to learn more about Falun Dafa. (Photo courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Doron, a construction industry manager, said he’d seen practitioners meditating in a park, but this was the first time he’d seen one of their parades. He said, “My wife and I like meditation, but we haven’t tried Falun Dafa. Is this also beneficial for children?” A practitioner told him that it was and that he could he learn the exercises online for free.
The practitioner also told him Falun Dafa teaches people to follow the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Doron said, “I think we need this very much, especially in today’s world. I think being kind is what we need most. Thank you for sharing this information.”
When he heard about the persecution of the practice in China Doron expressed his sympathy: “This persecution must end. People should be more kind and inclusive. People should not judge others based on religion.” He said he would look at the Falun Dafa website and learn more.
Tiffany (left) and Doug agree with the Dafa’s principles. (Photo courtesy Minghui correspondents in Toronto)
Doug and his wife Tiffany said this was the first time they’d ever seen a Falun Dafa parade. Tiffany said it was wonderful that there were people of all ages in the parade, supporting each other and displaying their culture.
A practitioner told them about Dafa and the reason for the parade. Doug said, “I believe that ‘truth’ represents a sense of dignity—consistently doing what is right.” Tiffany said, “I believe that kindness can have a profound impact. People need to put themselves in others’ shoes and consider others before they act.”
When the practitioner told them about the 27-year-long persecution in China, Doug was appalled: “It’s terrible and sad. Falun Dafa is so positive, and practicing makes people feel good. Practitioners in China face immense pressure.” Tiffany added, “The persecution should not be happening.”
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