Celebrating May Long Weekend in the GTA
Things to do this May Long Weekend to kick off summer.
Victoria Day is a uniquely Canadian holiday celebrating Queen Victoria’s birthday, but for many, Victoria Day marks the beginning of summer. Traditionally, the GTA is full of spectacular fireworks displays on Victoria Day. Fireworks were cancelled these past few years, but are finally back this year, which means it’s time for the celebrations to begin!
As the weather warms up, the May Long Weekend is the perfect time to start BBQing with friends and family and enjoying time outside. Looking for things to do this May long weekend? Read below for a list of events, attractions, and of course fireworks, taking place across the GTA.
Ashbridges Bay Park’s Victoria Day Fireworks
Ashbridges Bay Park’s Victoria Day Fireworks display is one of the most iconic fireworks shows in Toronto. Known as the Official City of Toronto show, this 14-minute show will begin on Monday, May 23rd at 9:45 pm. You can watch from Balmy Beach Park for a great view of the show.
Canada’s Wonderland Fireworks
On Sunday, May 22nd, when the park closes at 10 pm, you can enjoy a firework show above Canada’s Wonderland’s park skyline and iconic Wonder Mountain. This 15-minute show features more than 6,000 colourful explosions, reaching heights of over 800 feet, and a unique, custom-design set to an original soundtrack.
Victoria Day Weekend Boat Party
Feel like partying this Victoria Day? Then check out this floating nightclub, complete with a dance floor and professional DJ. This Victoria Day Weekend Boat Party will have you rocking the boat while enjoying stunning views of Toronto.
Tdotclub Glow Boat Party
The Tdotclub Glow Boat Party is another boat party over the May long weekend. Have a blast on the dance floor while grooving to high-energy music. Bottle service, beverages, food, and complimentary glow sticks will be available on the boat.
Circus! Circus!
Head to the Harbourfront Centre this May long weekend for an introductory-level drop-in circus activity. Try out beams, hoops, and swings with circus professionals and instructors. This activity can be adapted to all ages.
Bippity Boppity Princess Tea Party
At the York-Durham Heritage Railway, the Bippity Boppity Princess Tea Party is a magical tea party where children can meet their favourite princesses, take a picture with them, and try on a glass slipper. VIP guests will get a special storytime with the fairy Godmother, as well as a special gift.
Junior
Junior is Toronto’s international children’s festival taking place at the Harbourfront Centre. This festival will explore what it means to connect to each other and the community through theatre, dance, music, and art. Junior is suitable for children ages 4-14.
FizzFest Toronto
Taking place May 21-22 at Fort York Garrison Common, FizzFest Toronto is Canada’s first festival dedicated to premixed cocktails, seltzers, ciders, wine and more. Enjoy live performances and celebrity appearances from people like Priyanka, the winner of Canada's Drag race, while sipping on delicious drinks.
Toronto Craft and Botanical Market
At this Spring market, you can shop for quality plants and artisanal products while enjoying views of Toronto’s Waterfront. The Toronto Craft and Botanical Market will feature a curated selection of artists and vendors selling 100% original, handmade, and locally produced products.
Victoria Day Fireworks at Ballantrae Community Centre
If you’re in Stouffville, head to Ballantrae Community Centre on Friday, May 20th for fireworks, food, entertainment, and family fun. Fireworks will start at 9:30 pm.
Kids Fest TO
Taking place at the Markham Fair Grounds this weekend, Kids Fest TO will feature over 30 rides and attractions including inflatables, kiddie midway rides, live entertainment, and more. The kids will also love the live and meet and greets with fun mascots. The perfect family photo op!
May Long Weekend at Blue
Blue Mountain’s annual May Long Weekend celebrations include a jam-packed schedule of family-friendly activities, live music, roaming entertainment, a scavenger hunt, a magic show, interactive drumming, glow-in-the-dark Groove Dancing, and fireworks on Saturday night.
Centreville May Weekends
Nothing says the start of summer more than a trip to Toronto’s Centre Island. At Centreville Amusement Park this weekend, the family can enjoy over 600 acres featuring more than 30 rides and attractions and a variety of food outlets.