Toronto in spring is full of amazing things to do and see! As the weather gets warmer, you can relax on a rooftop patio, catch a baseball game, chow down on some ribs, and so much more.
The Drake
Check out an event at the Drake Hotel. Located on Queen Street West, The Drake offers tons of events all year round – but in the spring and summer, their gorgeous rooftop patio is open! Head up to the roof for a drink before heading to the Underground bar for a poetry slam, Indie concert, karaoke night. See a full events list here.
Cherry Blossoms
Head to High Park to marvel at the gorgeous cherry blossoms! The blossoms are expected to be in full bloom between April and May (last year it was late April). After a long winter, the blooming, white Sakura flowers are a sight for sore eyes and to many, it’s the definitive start of spring. The Sakura have been in High Park for almost 60 years when Toru-Hagiwara, the Japanese ambassador to Canada gifted 2,000 Japanese Somei-Yoshino Sakurathe to the citizens on Toronto from the people of Tokyo. They were a gift in support of the Japanese-Canadian refugees after the Second World War. Since April 1, 1959, the trees have signaled spring to Torontonians.
Rib and Craft Beer Fest
From May 17th to 20th, experience the huge backyard BBQ at Yonge and Dundas Square. Entrance is free! In addition to great craft beer and top-notch ribs, there will also be live music, line dancing, face-painting, and more! For more information or to find other Rib Fests in the GTA, click here.
Farmers’ Markets
There are tons of farmers’ markets happening all over Toronto during spring and summer. The Trinity Bellwoods Market starts May 7th and features lots of fresh, local, and organic produce. The Toronto Botanical Garden hosts a farmers’ market inside the gardens. This busy market plays live jazz music for shoppers and features a variety of vendors selling a range of items from unpasteurized honey to fresh produce and cheese made from Stratford-based dairy. To see a more complete list of Toronto farmers’ markets, click here.
Food Truck Friday
Starting Friday April 27th, Food Truck Friday runs biweekly in the parking lot of Bloor West and Resurrection Road in Etobicoke. It is just west of the Islington subway station so it’s convenient to get to. Entrance is free so you can browse the many different food trucks and pick whatever one satisfies your craving. There’s something for everyone!
Doors Open Toronto
On May 26th, Toronto will open its architecturally, culturally, socially, and/or historically significant doors (many which are normally off limits) to the public. The event is free and happens annually. Toronto was the first city to host Doors Open in North America and is one of the biggest in the world. It’s a great chance to learn more about the history of Toronto. This year, the event will focus on the city’s film and television industry. Learn more here.
Blue Jays Game
Catch a Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre on a nice day with the roof open. Even the nosebleed section in the Rogers Centre offers excellent seats since you’re that much closer to the sun and breeze with the roof open. Plus, the jumbotron makes sure you don’t miss a thing. Spring means baseball season, so make sure you catch a game and root, root for the home team! Find the schedule here.
Field Trip
Experience the music festival Field Trip on June 2nd to 3rd at the Historic Fort York and Garrison Common. The lineup this year boasts amazing, Canadian artists such as Metric, Alvvays, Bahamas, and Charlotte Cardin. The festival began as a celebration of Canadian independent music in 2013 and has been growing ever since. On top of great music, there will also be great food, art, comedy, and fashion. For more information, visit the official website.
Written by Megan Cary.
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