Your Ultimate Guide to a Delicious and Dazzling Victoria Day Long Weekend in Toronto and the GTA!

Get ready, Toronto and GTA residents! The Victoria Day long weekend is just around the corner, and it's shaping up to be an absolute feast for the senses. From mouthwatering BBQ to global flavors, and from vibrant cultural celebrations to breathtaking fireworks displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Forget scrolling endlessly – we've curated the hottest events to ensure your long weekend is nothing short of spectacular.

Dive into Deliciousness: Food Festivals Galore!

This long weekend is a paradise for food lovers, with not one, but three incredible food festivals happening across the city and the GTA. Prepare your taste buds for a delightful adventure!

Vaughan Ribfest: A BBQ Bonanza

Calling all BBQ aficionados! The much-anticipated Vaughan Ribfest returns to Assembly Park (80 Interchange Way, Vaughan) from Friday, May 16th to Monday, May 19th, 2025. Presented by the Ontario Festival Group, this year's Ribfest promises to be bigger and better, conveniently located in the IKEA Plaza.

Get ready to sink your teeth into award-winning BBQ from five of North America's best rib teams. We're talking tender pulled pork, juicy smoked brisket, BBQ chicken, and those legendary beef "Dino" ribs! Beyond the incredible ribs, you'll find a variety of classic festival treats like the Bloomin' Onion, roasted corn, and poutines. And of course, what's BBQ without a cold beer to wash it all down? Gather your friends and family for a finger-licking good time!

Dates & Times:

• Friday, May 16, 2025: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday, May 17, 2025: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday, May 18, 2025: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Monday, May 19, 2025: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM

International Food + Drink Festival: A Global Culinary Journey

Embark on a worldwide gastronomic adventure at the 2nd Annual International Food & Drink Festival at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W, Toronto). This vibrant 3-day celebration, from Saturday, May 17th to Monday, May 19th, 2025, will showcase the diverse and exciting flavors from across the globe, all set against the stunning backdrop of Toronto's waterfront.

Indulge in a wide array of international cuisine, from tantalizing street food to exquisite gourmet specialties, all expertly prepared by top chefs and vendors. Sip on curated selections of wines, beers, and artisanal cocktails while enjoying live music, captivating performances, and interactive cooking demonstrations. Whether you're a seasoned foodie, a curious explorer of global flavors, or simply looking for a lively weekend experience, this festival is a must-visit. Bring your appetite and your sense of adventure – Toronto's most exciting international food event awaits!

Dates & Times:

• Saturday, May 17, 2025: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Sunday, May 18, 2025: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Monday, May 19, 2025: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Toronto Halal Bites Festival: Celebrating Cuisine, Culture, and Community

Experience the vibrant spirit of halal cuisine, culture, and community at the Toronto Halal Bites Festival, taking place at Nathan Philip Square (100 Queen St W, Toronto) from Friday, May 16th to Sunday, May 18th, 2025. As Toronto's premier halal-focused festival, this three-day event offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse culinary delights and connect with a multicultural and family-oriented audience.

Beyond the incredible food, the festival will feature live art installations, an Art Gallery showcasing artistic expressions, cultural performances, a Live Cooking Show, and interactive exhibits that highlight the rich artistic traditions of various communities. With its central downtown location and an anticipated attendance of over 20,000 people, the Toronto Halal Bites Festival is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a celebration of food, culture, and art.

Dates & Times:

• Friday, May 16, 2025: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday, May 17, 2025: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday, May 18, 2025: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Witness the Wonder: Dazzling Victoria Day Fireworks

No Victoria Day long weekend is complete without the sparkle and boom of fireworks! Get ready to light up your night with these spectacular displays across Toronto and the GTA:

A Guide to Victoria Day Fireworks in and around Toronto:

1. Ashbridges Bay Park (Toronto): To celebrate Victoria Day, Ashbridges Bay Park (1561 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6) will host an impressive 14-minute fireworks show on Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 10:00 PM.

2. Canada’s Wonderland (Vaughan): Cap off a thrilling day at Canada’s Wonderland (9580 Jane Street Vaughan, ON L6A 1S6) with their custom-designed fireworks display on Sunday, May 18th, 2025 at 10:00 PM. Enjoy multiple viewing points throughout the park for a grand finale to your adventure.

3. Niagara Falls (Niagara Falls): Starting Friday, May 16th, 2025, witness the magic of nightly fireworks displays over the majestic Niagara Falls at 10:00 PM. This captivating 5-minute show offers breathtaking views from various vantage points.

4. Memorial Park (Whitchurch-Stouffville): Take a short drive to Stouffville's Memorial Park (2 Park Dr, Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A 4K1) for their fireworks display on Friday, May 16th, 2025 at 9:30 PM. Enjoy food trucks and live music leading up to the spectacular show, rain or shine!

5. Dundas Driving Park (Dundas): Head to Dundas Driving Park (71 Cross St, Dundas, ON L9H 2R5) on Sunday, May 18th, 2025. Starting at 4:00 PM, enjoy live music, food trucks, and an artisan market, followed by the fireworks display expected to begin around 9:30 PM.

Sweet Treat Alert: The First-Ever Chapman’s Ice Cream Festival!

Perfectly timed to welcome ice cream season, Toronto’s iconic Casa Loma (1 Austin Terrace, Toronto) will host the inaugural Chapman’s Ice Cream Festival on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

This delightful festival promises fun activities, games, and contests for all ages. Indulge in creative ice cream dishes and a wide variety of delectable Chapman's ice cream flavors while enjoying live music. It's the perfect way to kick off the warmer months with a sweet and memorable experience at a historic landmark.

This Victoria Day long weekend in Toronto and the GTA is brimming with exciting events. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a culture seeker, or a fan of dazzling lights, there's a perfect way for you to celebrate. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a jam-packed weekend of fun and festivities!