8 Events to Catch in Toronto This Spring Season
by Core Assets
As spring rolls into Toronto, the city shakes off its winter coat with a series of events that are as varied as a Spadina Avenue buffet—and nearly as eclectic. From watching the fast-paced action at the Victoria Day SpeedFest to the harmonious notes at SING! The Toronto Vocal Arts Festival, there's a spring event for everyone. These eight spring events don’t just mark the city’s cultural calendar; they’re a full-blown celebration of our quirks and idiosyncrasies. So, if you’re plotting how to squeeze the most out of Toronto this spring, remember that our city’s events are like our weather: unpredictable but always entertaining. Grab your umbrella (because let’s face it, it might snow), and let’s dive into what the city has in store before the dreaded heatwave of two whole weeks in July hits us!
1. Victoria Day SpeedFest
Cruise on over to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park from May 17-19, for a weekend that’s more thrilling than a streetcar ride during rush hour. The Victoria Day SpeedFest isn't just about fast cars; it’s a family extravaganza where you can witness NASCAR races and enjoy activities that are sure to entertain everyone—from your adrenaline-junkie uncle to your toddlers who just want to go "vroom vroom".
2. Harbourfront Centre JUNIOR Festival
This Victoria Day long weekend, the Harbourfront Centre is turning into the kid-friendly zone of your dreams. From May 18-20, experience a magical mishmash of free and ticketed events that promise more excitement than finding a parking spot in downtown Toronto on the first try. Bring the kids and enjoy everything from puppet shows to music that’ll have even the grumpiest teen tapping their feet.
3. Toronto Newcomer Day
Toronto’s welcoming spirit shines on May 23rd with Toronto Newcomer Day. It’s like a block party for the entire city, celebrating our newest neighbours with a day filled with free activities and entertainment. It’s the perfect way to say “Welcome, eh!” with the warmth typically reserved for a Tim Hortons' double-double.
4. Inside Out Film Festival
From May 24 to June 1, the Inside Out Film Festival is where Toronto’s film buffs gather to celebrate diverse and inclusive 2SLGBTQ+ stories. It’s more heartfelt than a Drake song about the 6ix. If you love cinema that entertains and enlightens, don’t miss this festival.
5. Carassauga Festival of Cultures
Forget hopping on a plane; from May 24-26, travel the world one bite at a time at the Carassauga Festival of Cultures in Mississauga. With a smorgasbord of international food, music, dance, and art, it's like the multicultural festival of your dreams, minus the jet lag.
6. Doors Open Toronto
On May 25-26, get ready to snoop around Toronto’s coolest buildings and historic sites—all without spending a dime. Doors Open Toronto is like the ultimate backstage pass to the city, but you get to see the skeletons in Toronto's architectural closet instead of the rock stars.
7. Colonel Samuel Smith Park Spring Bird Festival
Feather your nest with knowledge at the Colonel Samuel Smith Park Spring Bird Festival on May 25. This event is perfect for urban birdwatchers and families looking to migrate out of their condos for the day. Enjoy guided bird walks and learn about our feathered friends in a setting as peaceful as Toronto Island on a weekday morning.
8. SING! The Toronto Vocal Arts Festival
From May 25 to June 2, let the harmonious melodies of the SING! The Toronto Vocal Arts Festival sweeps you off your feet. This festival showcases the magic of a cappella music across Toronto, featuring performances more uplifting than the CN Tower elevator on a clear day.
As spring in Toronto springs into action, we're reminded that our city is more than just a place for harrowing hockey debates and unpredictable weather swings. It’s a cultural playground with events that would make a grumpy goose smile. Exploring Toronto in the spring is like finding an all-day breakfast spot that doesn’t skimp on the maple syrup—utterly satisfying and distinctly Canadian. Let's make the most of these spirited spring days before we start complaining about the heat. Ready, set, explore!