Cabbagetown, first established in the mid 1850’s, gets its name from the thousands of Irish immigrants who first settled here after fleeing the potato famines of their homeland. In an effort to feed their families, many impoverished residents grew cabbages in their front lawns. Over the years, the neighbourhood fell into severe disrepair until the mid 1970’s when young professionals and real estate speculators drawn to the beautiful architecture, inexpensive homes and close proximity to down-town and the financial district began renovating and restoring the derelict properties. Today, with the help of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association, this neighbourhood is known to have the largest continuous area of preserved Victorian housing in all of North America.
Generally defined as being bounded by Parliament, Wellesley and Dundas Streets and the Don Valley, today’s Cabbagetown is a thriving community for professional couples, families and singles. While there remains the odd vestiges of the bygone era, residents enjoy a wide selection of boutique shops, cuisine, and culture. In addition, Cabbagetown is known for its yearly community events including their Short Film & Video Festival, the Forsythia Festival, the Fall Festival, parade and home tours.
Residents love the nearby Riverdale Farm, modelled after a late 19th century Victorian farm, the arts and crafts market, a weekly farmer’s market, the nearby sports fields and quick access to the Lower Don Recreation Trail.