Fun Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025 | Must-See Events & Festivals

Julie Anne L.
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So, your calendar says May, but your brain is still processing January? Time moves weirdly these days. But while you’re figuring out how it’s already spring, Toronto’s piling on events like it’s trying to win a competition. Fun things to do in Toronto this May 2025? Yeah, there’s a long list (almost too many).

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But don’t worry, this isn’t a list of “go for a walk” or “try a new salad.” We’re talking actual fun. The kind you forget to post on Instagram because you’re too busy enjoying it.

Scroll on. Something interesting will catch your eye—probably right after your group chat stops replying.

Event details and schedules can change. Please check the official website or contact the organisers for the most up-to-date info.

Can’t-Miss Fun Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025

Hot Docs Festival (Until May 4)

Got a soft spot for real stories? The Hot Docs Festival is your May must-do. With screenings across the city and online, this festival features bold films, eye-opening panels, and deep dives into the real world.

OVO – Cirque du Soleil (May 1-June 28)

Photo via @cirquedusoleil, @circuscoopr, and @ovo.cirquedusoleil / Instagram

In OVO, Cirque du Soleil reimagines life from the eyes of an insect—complete with love stories, flips, and flying beetles. It’s colourful and happens in the middle of a lively ecosystem.

  • Location: Under the Big Top (2150 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.cirquedusoleil.com

MLB: Toronto Blue Jays Game (Various Dates)

Photo via @bluejays / Instagram 

Sun’s out, Jays are in. If you’re looking for a classic Toronto day out, you can’t go wrong with a ballgame at the Rogers Centre. Here, you can grab a drink and a hotdog, and cheer on the home team with thousands of fans.

  • Location: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.mlb.com
  • May 1 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Boston Red Sox
  • May 2 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Cleveland Guardians 
  • May 3 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Cleveland Guardians 
  • May 4 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Cleveland Guardians 
  • May 13 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays 
  • May 14 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays 
  • May 15 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays 
  • May 16 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Detroit Tigers
  • May 17 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Detroit Tigers
  • May 18 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. Detroit Tigers
  • May 20 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. San Diego Padres 
  • May 21 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. San Diego Padres
  • Mat 22 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. San Diego Padres
  • May 29 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. The Athletics 
  • May 30 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. The Athletics 
  • May 31 – Toronto Blue Jays vs. The Athletics 

Toronto Coin Expo (May 2-3)

You’d be surprised how fun a coin expo can be. The Toronto Coin Expo brings together 50+ dealers with rare currency, tokens, medals, and collectibles. It’s your chance to buy, sell, or just admire vintage currency.

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  • Location: Toronto Public Library – Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.torontocoinexpo.ca 

Eugene Onegin (May 2-24)

Photo via @canadianopera / Instagram 

Longing, rejection, and letters that come a little too late—Eugene Onegin is the opera for your dramatic side. It’s a “why didn’t I tell them I loved them sooner” kind of story… but fancier.

  • Location: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts (145 Queen St. W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.coc.ca

ReMode: Circular Fashion Festival (May 3)

vietnom vietnamese restaurant in toronto
Photo via Fashion Takes Action 

What if your clothes could save the planet? This free event at Arcadia Earth highlights sustainable style, featuring a fashion marketplace, expert talks on reusing and repurposing, and even a clothing swap.

  • Location: Arcadia Earth (486 Front St W. Building C, Toronto)
  • Admission: Register here for free. $10 for clothing swap.
  • Website: www.fashiontakesaction.com 

TASH Presents: Cherry Blossom Picnic at High Park (May 3)

Nothing says “spring” like cherry blossoms and a potluck picnic. So, join the crew at TASH at High Park, bring your snacks (and maybe a blanket), and bask in the blooms while making new friends.

  • Location: High Park (1873 Bloor St W, Toronto)
  • Instagram: @tash_hangouts
  • The date is also subject to change based on the weather

Let’s Move, Willowdale: Move-a-thon & BBQ (May 3)

Photo via @neighbourlinkny / Instagram 

How about starting your day with a jog, ride, or walk… and ending it with BBQ and prizes? This fun-filled community event includes live entertainment, kids’ activities, delicious food, and more.

2025 Soundwave Summit (May 4)

Dreaming of going viral or just wanting to level up your mic game? This day-long summit covers everything from storytelling tips to tech deep dives—plus food trucks and an afterparty.

  • Location: The Orange Lounge Recording Studio (567 Queen Street West #300, 3rd Floor, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.thesoundwavesummit.com

Toronto Marathon (May 4)

Running with thousands of people through the city? The Toronto Marathon unites athletes from 50+ countries for multiple race types. Moreover, it’s all in support of major local charities.

Departure Festival (May 6-11)

Need a festival that’s beyond music? Departure Festival features a full-on fusion of music, comedy, art, and tech. It’s a creative playground where performers, speakers, and industry experts come to blow your mind.

GradEx 110 (May 7-11)

OCAD U’s biggest flex of the year is back. Over 800 emerging artists show off their work across every discipline imaginable. Also, there’s a free opening night party on May 7.

  • Location: OCAD University (100 McCaul St., Toronto)
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: www.ocadu.ca

Artist Project (May 8-11)

Photo via @artistprojectto / Instagram

Ever wanted to ask an artist what inspired that mind-bending piece in front of you? At the Artist Project, you actually can. It features over 250 independent artists showing everything from fine art to large-scale installations.

  • Location: Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place (195 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.theartistproject.com

Mother’s Day Tea at Old Mill Toronto (May 8-18)

Vietnamese Restaurant North York
Photo via @oldmilltoronto / Instagram

Classy, comfy, and possibly your mom’s new favourite place—Old Mill Toronto’s Afternoon Tea is peak Mother’s Day energy. Sip on curated blends, nibble Devonshire cream-topped scones, and bask in the beauty of a venue that’s been around since 1914.

Midnight in Paris: An Immersive Art Experience (May 8-10)

Can’t make it to Paris this spring? If so, visit Midnight in Paris, a 3-night multi-sensory art bash with over 60 artists, interactive exhibits, and yes… a secret underground dance floor.

  • Location: Super Wonder Gallery (1162 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Instagram: @booksartmagic 

Toronto Botanical Garden Spring Plant Sale 2025 (May 9-11)

Vietnamese Restaurant North York
Photo via Toronto Botanical Garden

The annual Spring Plant Sale is back with roses, hydrangeas, fruit shrubs, and a whole jungle of native and pollinator-friendly plants. Plus, there’s a mini market with over 10 local vendors, free coffee, and garden advice from the pros.

Wine Fest Toronto 2025 (May 9-10)

Vietnamese Restaurant North York
Photo via Wine Fest Toronto

Wine not? Wine Fest Toronto is the weekend upgrade you deserve. Expect exclusive tastings, live music, gourmet pairings, and winemakers who actually make wine chat fun.

  • Location: Exhibition Place — Heritage Court (19 Nunavut Rd, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.winefesttoronto.com 

Mother’s Day Buffet at Old Mill Toronto (May 10-11)

Looking to impress Mom? This dreamy buffet is the move. You’ll enjoy carved roasts, fresh seafood, indulgent desserts, and even vegan/gluten-free options in a comfy historic spot.

Mother’s Day MRKT in Mimico Square (May 10)

The annual Mother’s Day MRKT returns with live music, face painting, free activities for the kids, and lots of incredible items from local makers. Bring Mom, browse candles and skincare, and enjoy sweet finds.

  • Location: 2445 Lake Shore Blvd West, Etobicoke, Toronto
  • Admission: Free
  • Instagram: @localmrkt

Toronto Flower Market (May 10)

Photo via @torontoflowermarket / Instagram

Flowers? The Toronto Flower Market is a spring fave for a reason. It’s back and blooming with gorgeous picks from Ontario’s top growers.

Toronto Police Children’s Games (May 10)

Got active kids, teens, or young adults with disabilities who love a challenge? This fun-filled inclusive sports day involves teamwork, competition, and a fun atmosphere, featuring wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, boccia, and more.

Mother’s Day High Tea at Ripley’s Aquarium (May 11)

Photo via @ripleysaquaca / Instagram

Yep, you read that right—high tea with the fish. This Mother’s Day experience is set inside Ripley’s Aquarium, where Mom can sip on artisanal tea and nibble on delicate finger sandwiches surrounded by shimmering sea turtles and glowing jellyfish.

  • Location: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.ripleys.com 

Toronto Artisan Market – Trinity Bellwoods Park (May 11)

Photo via @torontoartisan / Instagram 

If you’re looking for something chill and local, this art-filled Sunday stroll is the ideal event. The Toronto Artisan Market returns to Trinity Bellwoods with handmade goods, art, ceramics, skincare, and snacks.

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise (May 11)

Photo via Hornblower Group

Brunch is great, but brunch on a boat? This scenic Mother’s Day cruise on Lake Ontario comes with a chef-prepared brunch, live DJ, and skyline views you’ll want to post about immediately.

Mother’s Day High Tea at The Castle (May 11)

Photo via Casa Loma 

If your mom deserves royal treatment, head to Casa Loma for a tea party in a literal castle. This Edwardian affair includes premium teas, pastries, and the castle’s grandiose ambience.

Blockchain Futurist Conference (May 13)

Photo via @untraceableinc / Instagram
  • Location:  Old Toronto Stock Exchange – Design Exchange (234 Bay St., Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here. Free tickets are available but limited.
  • Website: www.futuristconference.com 

Consensus 2025 (May 14-16)

Collision who? The Consensus Conference is stepping in as Toronto’s new Web3 heavyweight. From AI to blockchain, expect 15,000+ attendees, high-level panels, and enough tech buzzwords to power your next side hustle.

Second Harvest Truck Pull Challenge (May 14)

Photo via Second Harvest 

Ever wanted to pull a 20,000-pound truck for charity? No? Well, now’s your chance anyway. Rally your team of 10 and flex your strength in this fun, adrenaline-packed event at Nathan Phillips Square.

Art Gallery of Ontario: 125th Anniversary (May 15)

Photo via @agotoronto / Instagram 

The AGO is throwing itself a birthday bash, and you’re invited. You’ll love the late-night fun, DJ sets by DJ Clymaxxx, hands-on activities, performances from the Royal Conservatory of Music students, and more.

  • Location: 317 Dundas Street West Toronto
  • Admission: Check pricing here.
  • Website: www.ago.ca

Toronto Met Film Festival 2025 (May 16-17)

Curious about what the next generation of filmmakers is cooking up? The Toronto Met Film Festival is back for its 29th year, and it features brilliant final projects from TMU’s film students.

Halal Bites Festival (May 16-18)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @halalbitesfestival and @muslimwomenpreneurs / Instagram

The Halal Bites Festival serves everything from juicy smash burgers and biryani to fusion tacos, loaded churros, and cheesy kunafa. Toss in live cooking demos, music, and a bustling artisan market, and you’ve got a weekend that smells (and tastes) incredible.

  • Location: Nathan Phillips Square  (100 Queen St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Free (pay per food item)
  • Website:  www.halalbitesfestival.com

Astronomy in Action Planetarium Show (May 17)

Need a break from city lights? Step inside a giant 4K planetarium dome and drift into the galaxy. This interactive experience takes you from Earth to deep space (no spaceship needed).

2025 Asian Heritage Culture Festival (May 17-31)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @canadaonefamilynetwork / Instagram 

Craving a weekend full of color, culture, and killer food? At this annual Asian Heritage Culture Festival, you’ll find live performances, art exhibits, Asian fashion shows, and rows of tempting food vendors. Plus, there are bouncy castles for the kids and booths for everyone.

Victoria Day Weekend Boat Party (May 17)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @torontoboatparties and @oceanicentertainmentinc / Instagram

Sick of the same old Victoria Day plans? This two-level boat party involves over 500 people dancing under the stars, live DJs pumping bangers, rooftop views of the skyline, and a fully stocked bar to keep the fun flowing.

Electric Island (May 17-18)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @electricislandto / Instagram

Toronto’s fave open-air party is back, and yes, it’s still electric. Electric Island is transforming city parks into EDM playgrounds with world-class DJs, wild visuals, and big summer energy.

  • Location: Fort York (250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.electricisland.to 
  • Other dates: June 28-29, August 8-9, August 30-31

Victoria Day Royal Race (May 19)

Who’s up for a scenic jog by the lake? This 5km and 2km race through High Park gives you those sweet lakeside views and a chance to crush a personal best.

  • Location: High Park (1873 Bloor St W, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.

Estonian Music Week 2025 (May 22-25)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @estonianmusicweek and @akolehemets / Instagram

From folk to jazz to choral, this festival’s got a range. Estonian Music Week is back with 17+ musical acts from Canada and Estonia lighting up venues all over the city. If you’ve never been to a Nordic festival, this is your sign.

  • Location: Multiple venues 
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.2025.estonianmusicweek.ca  
  • May 22 – Salakõrts aka Secret Saloon w. Now in Service (venue TBA)
  • May 23 – Curly Strings, The Crosslegs, Les Rats d’Swompe (Revival, College Street 783, Toronto)
  • May 23 – Official Estonian Music Week Afterparty: Dumai Dunai (DROM Taberna, Queen Street West 458, Toronto)
  • May 24 – Estonian Voices, Countermeasure (Innis Town Hall, Sussex Avenue 2, Toronto)
  • May 24 – Tuulikki Bartosik x Sander Mölder, Caracol (St. Anne’s Parish Hall, Dufferin Street 651, Toronto)
  • May 24 – Mart Avi, Katie McBride (St. Anne’s Parish Hall, Dufferin Street 651, Toronto)
  • May 25 – Ensemble U (Innis Town Hall, Sussex Avenue 2, Toronto)
  • May 25 – Vox Clamantis (Trinity-St. Paul’s Church, Bloor Street West 427, Toronto)

WeeFestival (May 22-June 8)

WeeFestival returns with theatre, dance, puppetry, and stories specially designed for toddlers to early school-age kids. Each show is thoughtful, imaginative, and guaranteed to keep their attention (and maybe yours too).

CLMBR ARTS MRKT at Hooptown Boulders (May 22)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via CLMBR ARTS MRKT

How about combining indoor climbing with the indie market? CLMBR ARTS MRKT is setting up a shop at Hooptown Boulders for a one-day-only event featuring local vendors from the climbing community.

Anime North 2024 (May 23-25)

Anime fans, Anime North is your weekend-long paradise this May. So, prepare for 350+ vendors, endless merch, cosplay everywhere, and a very packed Artist Alley.

  • Location: The Toronto Congress Centre (Dixon Road, Etobicoke)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.animenorth.com

Party 4 Paws Pet Fair (May 24-25)

Warning: You might fall in love with a rescue dog this weekend. This adorable pet-friendly event celebrates all things furry, featuring adoptable pets, interactive games, and paw-some photo ops. Shop for treats, toys, and cute accessories, and don’t forget to enter the giveaways.

  • Location: Trinity Bellwoods Park (790 Queen St. W., Toronto)
  • Admission: Free. More info here.
  • Website: www.guardiansbest.com 

SING! Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival (May 24-June 1)

SING! brings together top vocal talent from around the world for a celebration of sound that ranges from jazz to beatboxing to gospel. With nine concerts, seven free shows, and workshops, it’s the ideal place to find your new favorite group.

  • Location: Multiple venues 
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.singtoronto.com  
  • May 24 – SING! Free: Concerts in the Park, Kew Gardens
  • May 24 – SING! in Concert: Estonian Voices with Countermeasure, Innis Town Hall
  • May 25 – SING! in Concert: Black Umfolosi, Royal Ontario Museum
  • May 26 – SING! Free: Preview in Nathan Phillips Square, Nathan Phillips Square
  • May 29 – SING! in Concert: Beatsync EP Release, Royal Ontario Museum
  • May 30 – SING! in Concert: 2025 SING! Canadian A Cappella Championships, Royal Ontario Museum
  • May 31 – SING! in Concert: Soundcrowd with Deke Sharon, Isabel Bader Theatre
  • June 1 – SING! In Concert: The Kinsey Sicks’ Dragappella with opener On That Note, Royal Ontario Museum
  • More events to be announced.

TOFW Fashion Week S/25 (May 24–25)

TOFW highlights diversity, bold design, and style that speaks.  Watch spectacular runway shows, check out a local designer marketplace, and maybe snag that piece you’ll be posting on IG later.

  • Location: Toronto Public Library – Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.tofw.ca 

Dixonlicious 2025 (May 29)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @dixonhall_toronto / Instagram 

Food that feeds your soul and your community? Dixonlicious brings together incredible chefs, tasty treats, and a warm-hearted mission—to serve 30,000 meals to those in need. Enjoy gourmet bites, craft brews, and sweet pairings while helping fight food insecurity.

  • Location: Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas St E, Toronto)
  • Admission: Get your tickets here.
  • Website: www.dixonhall.org

Liberty Village Art Crawl – 12th Anniversary (May 31)

Things To Do in Toronto This May 2025
Photo via @torontoartcrawl / Instagram 

The Bentway. With 100+ local artists, interactive demos, live music, and delicious food, this is the kind of Saturday that ends with both a new handmade mug and a new favourite dance move. Moreover, DJ Kid Artik is bringing the beats.

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Hey, it's Julie! Fueled by coffee and cuddles from my 5 feline overlords, I'm on a perpetual quest for the perfect plate. When I'm not exploring new restos, you'll find me curled up with a good book or planning my next adventure.

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