May is one of the best months to spend in Toronto: gardens really start to bloom, temperatures are comfortable and nature-lovers bust out of the house to go for a hike, a bike ride… or maybe just hang out on a patio. It’s also the start of the warm-weather tourism season, making it a busy and exciting time for visitors and venues alike. So, enjoy all the festivities with our May Event Guide for Toronto and the GTA!
(Click on the title link for more details)
Cirque du Soleil ECHO (Starting May 8)
Cirque du Soleil mesmerizes audiences once again with the spectacular circus acts and bold visuals of their 20th show, ECHO. As with their previous creations, this groundbreaking show features their signature contemporary aesthetic, performed by talented acrobats and musicians at the top of their game.
Canada’s Wonderland Opening Day (May 3)
Canada’s Wonderland is reopening for the 2024 season with new rides, plus exciting events and festivals throughout spring and summer.
Free Comic Book Day (May 4)
Rejoice, comic book nerds! Free Comic Book Day always offers new titles to try out, plus plenty of established favourites, from superheroes to anime.
The Big Bounce Canada (May 4-19)
The biggest touring inflatable event in the world, The Big Bounce Canada tour returns to Ontario with their action-packed outdoor experience that really turns up the wow-factor on family-friendly entertainment.
Illuminarium Toronto: Lite Brite Worlds of Wonder (Starting May 8)
Illuminarium Toronto introduces their newest immersive experience Lite Brite Worlds of Wonder, a 360-degree light show along with interactive games and photo opportunities.
Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE (Starting May 8)
Just in time for Mother’s Day, Bloor-Yorkville presents Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE, a free floral trail that blends fashion design and fresh blooms with custom-made floral-dressed mannequins.
Mirvish Productions: “Dog Man: The Musical” (Starting May 9)
Mirvish Productions presents “Dog Man: The Musical”, a hilarious live show based on the bestselling Dog Man book series by Dav Pilkey.
The WeeFestival of Arts and Culture for Early Years (Starting May 9)
WeeFestival returns with performances and events in various locations around Toronto, intended for children newborn to six years old.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority: Spring Bird Festival (May 11)
At TRCA’s free Spring Bird Festival at Tommy Thompson Park, families can take part in kid-friendly bird-themed games and activities.
Harbourfront Centre JUNIOR Festival (May 18-20)
Harbourfront Centre hosts the JUNIOR Festival over the Victoria Day long weekend, taking place across Harbourfront Centre’s 10-acre waterfront location in both indoor and outdoor venues.
SING! The Toronto Vocal Arts Festival (Starting May 25)
Sing along with Canada’s premier music festival featuring artists performing “a cappella”, which means to sing without instruments.
Doors Open Toronto (May 25-26)
Doors Open Toronto lets you explore more than 140 of our city’s most notable buildings and rediscover our city in a new way, all for FREE.
Stratford Festival
This renowned theatre festival, held in the quaint Southern Ontario town of Stratford, features a full schedule of Shakespearean classics, plus musicals and family favourites.
Stars On Ice (Ending May 5)
Stars On Ice once again glides across Canada this year to bring figure skating to its loyal fans, featuring Canadian and international champions.
Hot Docs Festival (Ending May 5)
Hot Docs Festival returns with a full in-person line-up of short films in cinemas throughout downtown Toronto, plus special presentations and special events.
Mother’s Day Guide for Toronto and the GTA
Celebrate that extra special lady in your life with an outing or gift with help from our Mother’s Day Event Guide for Toronto and the GTA.
Guide to the Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Toronto
There’s still time to see cherry blossoms in parks across the GTA. Check out our list of the best spots where you can stroll amongst the rows and, naturally, take lots of selfies!
Summer Camp Guide for Toronto and the GTA
It’s not too early to think about summer, and therefore also summer camps! Provide your kids with fun activities and learning during their school break.
The Best Bike and Skateboard Parks in Toronto
Are your kids ready to move beyond the sidewalk? Check out these bike and skateboard parks in Toronto for all ages and abilities.
Spring Markets and Craft Fairs in Toronto and the GTA
Find arts & crafts, plus Earth Day and Mother’s Day themes with our guide to Spring Markets and Craft Fairs in Toronto & the GTA!
The Best Paths and Parkways for Hiking
Toronto and the GTA has a plethora of beautiful trails in case you need to sow your wild oats!
Bowling Guide for Toronto & the GTA
Bowling is a time-honoured family fun activity, many incorporating glow & cosmic bowling nights, so roll for a strike with our Bowling Guide.
Winter Farmers Markets
Meanwhile, you can also enjoy fresh food from farmers markets while supporting local businesses in and around Toronto. Stay tuned for an updated Spring/Summer market list as they’re reopening outdoors soon!
Public Indoor Pools
Indoor pools in Toronto are a perfect way to have fun and get some exercise, any time of year! (And it’s also handy to help pretend you’re down south at a resort…)
But Wait… There’s More!
Want even more ideas for Family-Friendly Events in Toronto This Weekend? For a complete listing of all the best events around Toronto, click on our Calendar and stay tuned to all the best local family events through both our Facebook and Instagram pages. Plus, we’re now on TikTok!
If you are looking for tips on how to keep your kids occupied without attending in-person events, you can find our best ideas, activities and inspiration here!
Did you know you can submit your family-friendly event to us? Fill out the form with your event details, as well as a photo, and we’ll do our best to get your event added to our events calendar.
