Hey GTA friends! The Victoria Day long weekend is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy the festivities. Whether you’re looking to watch some spectacular fireworks or find fun activities for the whole family, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a personal guide to make the most of your weekend.

Fireworks Shows to Light Up Your Night

Ashbridges Bay Park: The classic Victoria Day fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park are a must-see. This free event starts at 10 PM on Monday, May 20. It’s a beloved tradition that draws crowds with its beautiful display over Lake Ontario. For the best experience, consider taking public transit as parking can be a challenge.

Canada’s Wonderland: If you want to mix some thrill rides with your fireworks, head over to Canada’s Wonderland. Their fireworks show on Sunday, May 19, starts at around 10 PM and promises a dazzling 15-minute display featuring over 6,000 colourful explosions.

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Niagara Falls: For a truly unique experience, check out the nightly fireworks at Niagara Falls. The show kicks off on May 17 and continues every night at 10 PM throughout the summer. Watching the fireworks with the falls as a backdrop is simply magical.

Dundas Driving Park: If you’re near Hamilton, the Dundas Driving Park is hosting a family-friendly fireworks event on Sunday, May 19. The fun starts at 4 PM with live music, food trucks, and activities, culminating in fireworks at 9:30 PM.

Fun Activities for the Whole Family

Toronto Island Park: Spend a day on the Toronto Islands, perfect for a scenic picnic, biking, or a visit to the interactive Franklin Children’s Garden. The ferry ride itself is a fun start to the adventure.

Riverdale Farm: For a taste of the countryside right in the city, visit Riverdale Farm. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, it’s a delightful spot to see farm animals and enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Black Creek Pioneer Village: Step back in time and explore this historical village. From May 18 to May 19, they are transforming the village into a fantasyland with themed activities and storybook adventures.

Spring Fling Community Market: Head to Mississauga’s Clarkson Road Presbyterian Church on May 18 for an indoor/outdoor pop-up market celebrating its two-year anniversary. It’s a great place to find unique local crafts and goodies.

Woodbine Mohawk Park: Enjoy a free fireworks show and live Standardbred racing at Woodbine Mohawk Park in Milton on May 18. It’s a perfect evening outing for the family.

What’s Open and Closed in Toronto on Victoria Day

Transit:

• The TTC will be running on a holiday schedule.
• GO Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule.

Government Services:

• Government offices and services will be closed.
• Toronto Public Library branches will be closed on Sunday and Victoria Day.

Grocery Stores:

• Most big-box grocery stores and major grocers will be closed.
• Some Shoppers Drug Mart and T&T Supermarket locations will be open.
• Rabba Fine Foods locations will be open. Check with local stores for hours.

Postal Services:

• Canada Post and UPS locations will be closed with no mail collection or delivery.

Banks:

• All banks will be closed on Monday.

LCBO and The Beer Store:

• All locations will be closed on Monday.

Malls:

• Closed: Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Sherway Gardens, Fairview Mall, Dufferin Mall, The Shops at Don Mills, Scarborough Town Centre, Dixie Outlet Mall.
• Open with holiday hours: Square One Shopping Centre (11 AM to 6 PM), Eaton Centre (11 AM to 7 PM), Vaughan Mills (11 AM to 7 PM).

Top 10 Things to Do in Toronto This Victoria Day

1. Ashbridges Bay Park Fireworks: Enjoy a free fireworks show at 10 PM on Monday, May 20.
2. Neil Young Concert: Catch Neil Young live at Budweiser Stage at 7:30 PM.
3. F1 Exhibition: Explore the North America’s first F1 Exhibition at Lighthouse Artspace.
4. Lite Brite Worlds of Wonder: Experience an immersive and nostalgic family-friendly activity at Illuminarium Toronto.
5. Canada’s Wonderland: Spend the day at Canada’s Wonderland, open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
6. Centreville Amusement Park: Visit Centreville Amusement Park on the Toronto Islands.
7. Ripley’s Aquarium: Discover the wonders of the waters from 9 AM to 11 PM.
8. Blue Jays vs. White Sox: Enjoy a baseball game at Rogers Centre at 3:07 PM.
9. Toronto Zoo: Explore the Toronto Zoo, open from 9 AM to 7 PM.
10. Art Gallery of Ontario: Visit the AGO from 10:30 AM to 4 PM for an art-filled day.

Final Thoughts

The Victoria Day long weekend is a fantastic opportunity to explore the GTA, enjoy fireworks, and participate in a variety of fun activities. Whether you’re staying local or venturing a bit further, there’s plenty to see and do. Have a wonderful time and make the most of this festive holiday!

What are your plans for the Victoria Day weekend? Share your favorite spots and activities in the comments below!