HEADLINE

Raptors’ victory parade could draw up to 2 million fans

Field Level Media

June 16, 2019 at 8:08 pm.

Toronto Raptors fans already are lining up along the route for Monday’s victory parade, which could bring as many as two million people to the streets of Toronto to celebrate the team’s first NBA title.

Mike Bartlett, head of community affairs and events with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, provided that estimate to Toronto’s CP24.

The parade is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. ET at Exhibition Place’s Princes’ Gates and will end at Nathan Phillips Square for a 12:30 p.m. rally.

He said fans can expect the “biggest party Toronto has ever seen on Monday.”

“We got a few surprises up our sleeves but we are going to leave some of that for (Monday),” he said. “I can guarantee you that each and every Toronto Raptor will be there as will our front office team.”

Players will ride on double-decker buses and tote the Larry O’Brien Trophy to celebrate their victory over the Golden State Warriors in six games.

And Bartlett encouraged fans to wear any gear representing the team’s history in the city.

“This is Canada’s team, so whether it be red, whether it be black and gold, whether it be the old school purple, wear it proud and be part of our 24-year-run to become world champions,” he said.

Mayor John Tory declared Monday “We The North” day to honor the team.

“As we gather to celebrate the first NBA championship in Raptors’ history, I encourage everyone in our city to show our support, pride, love, and appreciation for this incredible team,” reads the proclamation he signed.