ROM After Dark returns for new season of can’t-miss after-hours fun

TORONTO, June 5, 2026 – ROM After Dark, the Royal Ontario Museum’s popular after-hours event series, returns with a dynamic slate of programming on select dates throughout 2026. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Museum’s galleries and special exhibitions, ROM After Dark (RAD) invites the 19+ crowd to experience ROM in a fresh way – while enjoying engaging live performances, DJ sets, pop-up activations, and curated food and drink offerings.

Offering a rare opportunity to visit ROM at night (7:30 to 11:30 p.m.), each RAD is a uniquely programmed gathering packed with live music, multiple dance floors, exciting performances, and mind-blowing visual art. Each themed evening includes interactive art experiences and diverse local artisanal food and beverage selections – not to mention unexpected moments waiting around every corner. No two RAD events are ever the same – so plan that date night, round up some friends, or treat yourself to an unforgettable outing!

RAD 2026-27 season

Friday, June 12 – Locally Crafted

Friday, July 24 – Island Fête

Friday, October 30 – All Hallows' Eve

Saturday, October 31 – Trick or Treat

Friday, February 19 – Dino Nite

Friday, March 5 – On the Wildside

Friday, June 12 – Locally Crafted

Don’t miss this special edition of RAD! Drawing on ROM’s commitment to supporting local creators, each RAD lineup features a host of talented performers and artists as well as food and drink purveyors from the region – the first RAD of the 2026 season goes all-in on this theme to highlight the very best the GTA and Ontario have to offer.

• Food hall: Fancy some fossils with your fine wine? Enjoy local food, craft beer, and local wines (including selections made with Ontario honey, in a nod to ROM’s BEES: A Story of Survival exhibition) right inside ROM’s recently renovated James and Louise Temerty Galleries of the Age of Dinosaurs and Samuel Hall Currelly Gallery.
• Live performance: Experience Moving Monuments, an innovative collaboration between Robot Orchestra creator Danny Shaddick and award-winning Canadian rapper Shad. The project, which channels the city’s diverse energy, features a towering drum tower built from Toronto sounds and salvaged instruments that performs in harmony with Shad’s live vocals. (Created in collaboration with Atlas Obscura and Destination Toronto.)
• DJ sets: Get your groove on with Shad’s longtime collaborator DJ T.Lo, a turntable wizard who keeps things moving, while DJ Cozmic Cat will bring the deep house and electronic vibes. Plus, enjoy playful disco and house sets from Fawn Big Canoe.
• Live music: Enjoy upbeat brass covers of pop hits by Trash Panda Brass, high-energy percussion performances from the Hitmen Drumline, and the jazz, swing and blues tunes of the Sean Stanley Trio.
• Interactive experiences: After checking out the innovative new BEES exhibition, channel your inner kid and get your face painted in the Dawn of Life Gallery, or snap a pic in the RAD photobooth against a bee-themed backdrop and take home a printed keepsake from the night.
• The ‘Beautiful Game’: Step into the world of soccer with a curated display presenting 50 years of soccer-themed videogames. Pick up a controller and experience the thrills of the world's most popular sport.
• Special exhibitions: As always, the event includes access to ROM’s special exhibitions – enjoy art and nature during this edition of RAD by visiting the compelling BEES: A Story of Survival and Shokkan: Material Encounters in Japanese Art.
  
   

Friday, July 24 – Island Fête

Step into a sizzling celebration of Caribbean music, fashion, dance, and pure island vibes at RAD: Island Fête. From electrifying live performances and hands-on workshops to blazing-hot DJs and vibrant food and drink, this is your one-way ticket to island paradise. Plus, each ticket includes a complimentary beverage and access to ROM’s special exhibitions BEES: A Story of Survival and Shokkan: Material Encounters in Japanese Art.

Stay tuned for full programming, performances, and food offerings to be announced closer to the event date.

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To find out more about upcoming RAD events, visit ROM’s website here.

Tickets are only available online in advance – they include access to ROM galleries and select special exhibitions, as well as one complimentary drink ticket and coat check. Government-issued photo ID is required for admission, with last entry at 10:30 p.m.

ROM Member benefits

Members get 10% off and early access to purchase RAD tickets.