TORONTO — The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) has announced Nick Di Donato, president & CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group, as the recipient of the 2024 Tourism Industry Awards of Excellence: Lifetime Achievement Award. The award will be presented at the Ontario Tourism Summit: Lifetime Achievement Award Luncheon on October 22 in Hamilton, Ont. This accolade recognizes Di Donato’s more than three decades of significant contributions to Ontario’s tourism industry, enhancing Toronto’s appeal as a premier destination.
Di Donato’s dedication to preserving and enhancing Toronto’s historic landmarks is evident through transformative projects such as the $12 million restoration of Casa Loma, which has been re-imagined as a premier cultural attraction and event venue. His creation of the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra, employing more than 70 musicians and attracting more than one million visitors a year, has solidified its status as a top cultural destination. Di Donato’s revitalization of the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex has additionally established it as a year-round hub for major events, while his launch of upscale dining experiences such as BlueBlood Steakhouse and Blue Bovine Steak + Sushi House has elevated Toronto’s culinary scene. As the only Canadian hospitality group with two Michelin-starred restaurants, Don Alfonso 1890 and DaNico, Di Donato has positioned Toronto as a global leader in both culture and cuisine.
Beyond his own ventures, Di Donato has played a significant role in shaping the broader tourism industry. His role as Chair of Canada’s Walk of Fame in addition to strategic involvement on the Board of Directors for Destination Toronto, and his advisory roles on various economic and cultural committees have contributed to the development of tourism infrastructure, marketing campaigns, and policies that enhance Ontario’s appeal to visitors.
Di Donato’s commitment to cultural enrichment extends to his support of events such as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the establishment of The Sunset Concerts with Canada’s Walk of Fame, promoting Indigenous and Canadian talent, further solidifying Toronto’s reputation as a global cultural hub. His philanthropic efforts, including his significant contribution to Mount Sinai Hospital and Humber River Hospital, demonstrate his dedication to giving back to the community and supporting those in need.
“Congratulations to Nick Di Donato on receiving the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award,” says Andrew Siegwart, president & CEO, TIAO. “Nick’s visionary leadership and commitment to excellence have significantly shaped Ontario’s tourism landscape, setting a high standard for innovation and hospitality. We’re honoured to recognize and celebrate this significant impact.”
