7 ways to celebrate Victoria Day Weekend in Toronto

After a slow start to spring, Torontonians are eagerly awaiting the Victoria Day long weekend to unofficially kick off summer. Whether you’re looking to dance ‘til dawn or planning a laid back weekend with friends and fireworks, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect to spend your weekend in the city.

Victoria Day celebrations wouldn’t be complete without a display of fireworks, and Toronto has a few good options for you.  On Sunday, you can catch the fireworks after a day at Canada’s Wonderland. Spend the afternoon and evening checking out the 200+ rides and attractions and stick around for the show, which boasts over 6,000 explosions. If you prefer to save your fireworks for Victoria Day itself, head to Ashbridges Bay Park on Monday. You’ll want to get there early to avoid traffic and get a good spot, so pack a picnic and make a day of it. Both shows will begin at 10pm and are weather permitting. When: May 21 and May 22 Where: Canada’s Wonderland and Ashbridges Bay Park

If you’re a fan of electronic music, rest up on Saturday—you’re in for a very busy long weekend. The music starts at 5pm on Sunday when up to 10,000 people will gather around the two stages at the True North Festival in Mississauga. Twelve acts will keep the party going into the wee hours. If you have any energy left by Monday afternoon, head to the Electric Island Festival for a daytime dance party that kicks off at 1pm. Bring a picnic and a blanket in case you need to rest and refuel. When: May 21st/ May 22nd Where: Arrow Hall at the International Centre/ Hanlan’s Point, Toronto Island

This Victoria Day, celebrate the work of Canadian filmmakers at Ted Rogers Cinema. The theatre will offer free screenings of four noteworthy Canadian documentaries. The shows begin at 12pm with a look at a marriage in trouble in Allan King’s A Married Couple. Next up is Lonely Boy, a behind-the-scenes look at the life of 19-year-old Paul Anka, at 2:15pm. At 2:45pm, you can catch Foster Child, which follows filmmaker Gil Cardinal as he searches for his biological family and indigenous roots. Finally, at 4pm, Manufacturing Consent explores Noam Chomsky’s views on media. When: May 22nd Where: 506 Bloor Street West, Toronto

If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, Artfest Toronto at the Distillery has you covered. This free arts and crafts show features over 80 artisans selling a variety of fine art and handmade goods. In addition to the art on display, there’ll be plenty of food, live music, and children’s activity stations. Artfest is the perfect opportunity to support local artists while strolling through the beautiful cobblestone streets of Toronto’s historic Distillery District. When: May 20-22, 11am-6pm Where: 55 Mill Street, Toronto

The eagerly anticipated Junction Flea Market is back at Echo Beach, and you could easily spend an afternoon perusing the market’s many offerings. You’ll find vendors selling everything from painstakingly refinished antiques to collectible kitsch and vintage clothes. The record collector will find plenty of vinyl to sort through, and the art enthusiast will have fun searching for an underpriced masterpiece. When your energy flags, hit up one of the many food stalls. When: May 21st Where: 909 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto

Celebrate the holiday weekend in style at the Victoria Day Boat Party. The party is on rain or shine (thanks to the boat’s retractable roof). A DJ spinning dancehall, hip hop, and EDM will keep the dance floor packed, and a professional photographer will be there to capture all the fun. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but if you really want to go all out, book the bottle service. When: May 20 Where: Aurora Borealis, 333 Lake Shore Boulevard East, Toronto

Nothing says summer like a barbecue, and Toronto has several great parks with charcoal grills for plenty of picnicking fun. If you’re planning a larger gathering, check out Sunnybrook Park, which has enough grills and picnic tables to ensure you won’t have trouble securing a spot. Sunnybrook also features bike trails, dog parks, and open fields for impromptu soccer games. If you prefer your burger or hot dog after a nice swim, check out Cherry Beach on the north shore of the Outer Harbor. Plan an evening barbecue, and stay for the beautiful sunset views. When: May 19- May 22 Where: 1132 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON or 1 Cherry Street, Toronto