10+ Things to Do in Toronto This Week: May 4–10 (Mother’s Day 2026)
Wondering what to add to your schedule this week? Early May typically brings a refreshing shift, where people start spending more time outdoors again. In this guide to things to do in Toronto this week (May 4-10), you’ll find events, pop-ups, and local activities happening around the city. This list rounds up a variety of things happening this week so you can see what’s worth checking out.
Pro-tip: Before you make the trip, check the official event page for any last-minute updates. While many of these events are free to attend, some still require a reservation, and you’ll want to budget for food, drinks, or merchandise.
The Ultimate Toronto Guide: May 4–10 (Mother’s Day Edition)
Free Fun Things To Do
CONTACT Photography Festival – 30th Edition
May 1–31, 2026丨Multiple Locations
The CONTACT Photography Festival returns for its milestone 30th edition, transforming galleries, public spaces, and cultural venues across the city into a celebration of photography and lens-based art. You’ll discover exhibitions featuring both Canadian and international artists exploring themes like migration, activism, memory, and identity through powerful visual storytelling.
If you’re planning to explore several exhibitions, you may want to check the CONTACT Photography Festival‘s official page for the full list of venues and event schedules. It’s one of the most engaging festivals in Toronto this weekend for art lovers.
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Toronto Union Presents A Kind Of Order
Until August 31, 2026丨Union Station
This multi-site exhibition inside Union Station features works from contemporary artists exploring themes of movement, migration, and transformation. Curated in partnership with BAND Gallery, the exhibition encourages visitors to pause and reflect on the emotional and imaginative aspects of travel and transition.
Since the artwork is displayed within one of Toronto’s busiest transportation hubs, it’s easy to explore while commuting or passing through downtown. It’s also one of the more accessible free events downtown Toronto today if you happen to be in the area.
Paid & Ticketed Events
Departure Festival
May 4–10, 2026丨Multiple venues
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Throughout the week, you’ll discover curated performances featuring emerging artists alongside headlining acts shaping today’s cultural scene. Beyond the concerts, you can attend film screenings, comedy shows, podcast recordings, and art experiences happening throughout the city.
Before heading out, it’s a good idea to explore the Departure Festival’s schedule online so you can plan which events or showcases you’d like to attend during the week.
MLB: Toronto Blue Jays
Select Dates丨Rogers Centre
If you’re looking for a classic Toronto experience, catching a Blue Jays game at Rogers Centre is always a great option. You can cheer alongside thousands of fans while enjoying the lively stadium atmosphere and iconic ballpark snacks.
Before heading to the game, you might consider grabbing dinner nearby or exploring the waterfront area just a short walk away.
Karan Aujla
May 9-10, 2026丨Scotiabank Arena
Punjabi music superstar Karan Aujla brings his P-Pop Culture World Tour to Toronto for two nights at Scotiabank Arena. Known for his dynamic performances and chart-topping hits, Aujla has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary Punjabi music.
You can check the concert page for ticket availability and showtimes before heading to the arena.
Mother’s Day Celebrations
Tea & Blooms: A Mother’s Day Workshop
May 9, 2026丨Anga’s Farm & Nursery
Tea & Blooms is a relaxing Mother’s Day floral workshop designed to celebrate moms, friends, and anyone who loves creativity. During this hands-on experience, you’ll learn how to arrange fresh flowers in a charming indoor setting inspired by an English garden.
Along with creating a beautiful arrangement to take home, you’ll enjoy tea and light refreshments in a welcoming environment perfect for conversation and connection. If you’re planning to attend, be sure to check the Mother’s Day workshop page for registration details and availability.
Mother’s Day Vendor Market at STACKT Market
May 9, 2026丨28 Bathurst Street, Toronto丨Free entry
STACKT Market hosts a lively Mother’s Day vendor market featuring local creatives, makers, and small businesses selling unique gifts and handcrafted goods. Set within the venue’s iconic shipping-container space, the market blends shopping, community, and culture in a vibrant open-air environment.
You’ll find everything from handmade accessories to locally designed products, making it easy to pick out something thoughtful.
Mother’s Day Succulent Arrangement Workshop
May 10, 2026丨Toronto Botanical Garden丨Ticketed
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a creative and relaxing afternoon surrounded by greenery at the Toronto Botanical Garden. In this guided workshop, you’ll learn helpful tips for caring for succulents while creating your own custom arrangement to bring home.
If you’re interested in joining, you may want to explore the event page for booking details and workshop information.
Mom-umental Mother’s Day Market
May 10, 2026丨The Parkdale Hall丨Free entry
If you’re searching for unique gifts for the moms and mother figures in your life, the Mom-umental Mother’s Day Market is a great place to browse. Local vendors and makers will be offering handcrafted items, thoughtful gifts, and creative products perfect for celebrating the occasion.
While you’re in Parkdale, you might also consider exploring the neighborhood’s cozy cafés or grabbing brunch nearby before heading to the market.
Mother’s Day at Hart House’s Gallery Grill
May 10, 2026丨7 Hart House Cir, Toronto丨Booking available
Treat Mom to a memorable brunch at the elegant Gallery Grill inside Hart House. Guests will enjoy a dining experience featuring a variety of delicious selections, along with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic alternative.
Since seating can fill up quickly, you’ll want to check the restaurant page and reserve a table in advance.
Premier Mother’s Day Cruise on Odyssey
May 10, 2026丨Queen’s Quay Terminal丨Booking available
For a memorable Mother’s Day celebration, consider taking Mom on a scenic cruise through Toronto Harbour aboard the Odyssey. The experience includes chef-prepared dining, attentive service, and beautiful daytime views of the skyline and waterfront.
It’s a relaxing alternative to busy restaurants and a wonderful way to enjoy quality time together while taking in the city from the water. If you’re planning this outing, you’ll want to check the cruise page for departure times and reservation details.
Where can you find the sweetest treats to celebrate Mom this year?
Since Mother’s Day falls on the final day of this week’s guide, finding the right spot for a celebratory treat is a top priority. Toronto’s bakeries and patisseries go all out for the occasion, offering everything from delicate floral-infused macarons to decadent multi-layered cakes. Check out our list of the Best Mother’s Day Dessert Spots in Torontoto lock in your plans before the best tables are gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Toronto offers plenty of ways to celebrate Mother’s Day, from brunch experiences and creative workshops to markets and scenic cruises. Many families also spend the day exploring parks, gardens, or waterfront attractions around the city.
May is a lively time in Toronto with festivals, art exhibitions, outdoor markets, and concerts happening throughout the city. Spring weather also makes it a great time to explore neighborhoods, attend cultural events, and enjoy the city’s parks and waterfront.
You can celebrate Mother’s Day with activities like brunch outings, creative workshops, shopping at local markets, scenic cruises, or simply spending time outdoors. Many people also attend community events in Toronto this weekend or cultural festivals happening throughout the city.
You Might Also Like:
- 18 Bucket List Things to Do in Toronto This May 2026: Guide • Over Here Toronto
- Must-Catch Concerts & Shows in Toronto This May 2026 • Over Here Toronto
- 25 Best Mother’s Day Events in Toronto & GTA (2026) • Over Here Toronto
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