Family-Friendly Victoria Day Long Weekend Events in Toronto & the GTA
- Nadia
- May 7
- 4 min read
The Victoria Day long weekend is the unofficial start of summer – and the perfect excuse to get out, explore, and make memories with your family! From dazzling fireworks and exciting festivals to outdoor adventures and kind-friendly attractions, Toronto and the GTA are full of fun ways to celebrate!
Before heading out, be sure to check event websites for updates schedules, tickets, weather information, and parking details, as some events may require advance registration.
Dates: May 18, 2026
Location: 1561 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON
Admission Fee: Free
Why families love it: This annual 14-minute fireworks show is one of the city’s most popular traditions. Families can enjoy an evening by the waterfront before the sky lights up with a spectacular fireworks show – making it the perfect way to end the long weekend together.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, being blankets or lawn chairs for comfort, and consider using public transit or parking farther away, as the area gets very busy close to showtime.
Date: May 17, 2026
Location: 9430 Guelph Line, Milton, ON
Admission Fee: Free
Why families love it: This event combines exciting live horse racing with entertainment for all ages. Families can enjoy face painting, balloon twisters, magic shows, crafts, and even the chance to meet a standardbred horse before ending the night with a spectacular LED light show and fireworks display.
Tip: The free fireworks show is weather dependent. LED Light Show and Fireworks will follow the final race.
Location: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy, Toronto, ON
Dates: May 16-17, 2026
Admission Fee: Adult: $27.45 / Child: $22.50 Children (ages 3 and under): Free
Why families love it: Families can step into a magical storybook world and explore a fantasy-filled village. This event features fairy tale characters, pirate adventures, puppet shows, enchanted dances, fairy classes, and interactive activities designed to spark imagination for kids of all ages. Costumes are encouraged, making it an extra fun and immersive experience!
Tip: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the village and encourage kids to dress up in their favourite fairytale costumes to fully enjoy the magical atmosphere and interactive activities.
Location: 1805 Taunton Rd. Hampton, ON
Dates: May 9-18, 2026
Admission Fee: $24.95 - $35
Why families love it: Pingle’s Tulip Days transforms the farm into a colourful experience with over one million blooming tulips, wagon rides, live music, farm activities, food vendors, and plenty of photo opportunities. Families can stroll through the vibrant flower fields, enjoy the playland, and even create their own tulip bouquet to take home!
Tip: Weekend tickets can sell out quickly during peak bloom, so booking ahead is recommended. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea since there’s lot of walking around the farm.
Location: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON
Date: May 17, 2026
Admission Fee: Included with park admission
Why families love it: Families can spend the day enjoying roller coasters, attractions, and shows before ending the night with a custom-designed fireworks presentation set to an original soundtrack. With multiple viewing areas throughout the park, it’s one of the GTA’s most exciting long weekend celebrations!
Tip: Fireworks begin at 10 PM, and some rides may close early before the show starts.
Location: Memorial Park, 2 Park Dr, Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON
Date: May 15, 2026
Admission Fee: Free
Why families love it: This community celebration lets families enjoy live music, food trucks, and an exciting fireworks show in a fun outdoor setting at Memorial Park. The event begins at 8 PM, with fireworks lighting up the sky at 9:30 PM. It’s the perfect evening for families to spend together!
Tip: Bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable viewing and arrive early to enjoy the food trucks and entertainment before the fireworks begin. Accessible parking is available.
Location: Centre Island (accessible by ferry from downtown Toronto)
Dates: May 16 - 18, 2026
Admission Fee: Free entrance, ride passes available for purchase
Why families love it: This classic Toronto favourite is the perfect Victoria Day long weekend outing for families with younger kids. This amusement park features over 30 rides and attractions. The island adds to the experience, with plenty of space for picnics, walking, and enjoying the waterfront after a day of rides.
Tip: Plan to arrive early and take one of the first ferries to avoid long lines, especially on holiday weekends.
Location: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON
Dates: Open daily throughout the Victoria Day long weekend
Admission Fee: Free
Why families love it: Families can spend the day exploring walking trails, playgrounds, gardens, picnic areas, and the park’s free zoo featuring farm animals. With plenty of open space to relax, play, and enjoy the warmer weather, it’s the perfect low-key outing for families.
Tip: Bring a picnic basket, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes to make the most of your visit!
Comments