Victoria Day 2025 in Canada: Top Things To Do, Events, Fireworks & Activities

Victoria Day 2025 lands on Monday, May 19, and for most Canadians, that means a well-earned long weekend, backyard BBQs, and—yes—fireworks lighting up the sky. But beyond the day off, Victoria Day is packed with meaning. It celebrates Queen Victoria’s birthday and unofficially kicks off summer across the country.

From parades and food festivals to camping getaways and fireworks shows, here’s your ultimate guide to things to do on Victoria Day 2025, with tips to help you enjoy it fully—rain or shine.

Your Ultimate Guide to Victoria Day 2025: Events, Activities & Fireworks

What Is Victoria Day All About?

Victoria Day has deep historical roots. First celebrated in 1845, it honours Queen Victoria and marks the beginning of warmer, outdoor-friendly days. While it’s recognized as a federal holiday in most provinces, it’s also known as the “May Two-Four weekend”—a nod to both the date and a popular case of beer size. Go figure.

1. Catch a Fireworks Show (or Two)

Victoria Day 2025 — *Photo via Canadian Tulip Festival*

Fireworks and Victoria Day go hand in hand. Most cities will light up the skies over the weekend.

Major Fireworks Displays in 2025:

Ashbridges Bay Park (Toronto): a local favourite
Canada’s Wonderland (Vaughan): May 18, included with park admission
Whitchurch-Stouffville Memorial Park: May 16 (9:30 pm), free family-friendly show
Ottawa (as part of the Tulip Festival): May 18 (9:20 pm – 10:00 pm), this year, paired with a drone show

Pro tip: Arrive early to get a good viewing spot. Bring a blanket, snacks, and dress in layers.

2. Attend a Parade or Festival

Victoria Day weekend is a showcase of Canadian creativity and community spirit. Expect marching bands, food stalls, and local performers.

Parades to Check Out:

Victoria, BC: Canada’s oldest Victoria Day parade, May 19
Nobleton, ON: Celebrating King Township’s 175th anniversary on May 19 with a full day of fun

Cultural & Food Festivals:

International Food + Drink Festival (Toronto): May 17–19 at Harbourfront Centre
Toronto Halal Bites Festival: May 16–18 at Nathan Phillips Square
Asian Night Market at stackt market: May 17 — free admission

Love a side of music with your food? There’s Jewish Music Week, Electric Island’s summer kickoff, and even a Piazzolla & Tango concert in Toronto.

3. Explore Nature: Hikes, Parks & Camping

The May long weekend is prime time to reconnect with the outdoors.

Top Hiking Destinations:

Banff National Park, AB: Snow might still be melting—check trail conditions before heading out
Algonquin Park, ON: Great for wildlife watching and canoeing
Pacific Rim National Park, BC: Ideal for ocean views and long beach walks

Camping Picks:

Kejimkujik National Park, NS: For lakeside serenity
Okanagan Valley, BC: Mix camping with vineyard visits
Blue Mountain Village (ON): Offers lodging, hiking trails, and May Long Weekend celebrations

4. Take a Day Trip or Go Fishing

Don’t want to travel far? There’s still plenty to do nearby.

Roadside Tulip Festivals (GTA): Pick-your-own tulips at places like Pingle’s Farm or St. Catharines’ fields until May 19
ROMWalks (Toronto): Free guided heritage walking tours of Toronto neighborhoods
Ontario Family Fishing Weekend: Licence-free fishing from May 10 to July 6 in designated areas

5. Get Active: Races, Biking & Water Fun

If you’re looking to stay active this long weekend, you’ve got options.

Victoria Day Royal Race (Toronto): May 19 – a lakeshore run through High Park
Biking Trails: Try Toronto’s Don Valley, Vancouver’s Stanley Park, or Ottawa’s Rideau Canal
Kayaking & Canoeing: Rentals are available at most major lakes and parks

Feeling adventurous? Book a guided nature or historical tour—many parks and historic villages offer these during the holiday.

6. See a Show or Join a Class

Looking for something indoors or creative?

Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Live in Concert (Toronto): May 17
Cirque du Soleil’s OVO (Toronto): All month long
Spring Plant-Based Cooking Class: May 17 at Animal Liberation Kitchen
Paprika Theatre Festival: Free, youth-led performances in Toronto

For kids, check out WonderPhil the Magician, Centreville Amusement Park, or Once Upon a Time at Black Creek Pioneer Village.

7. Family-Friendly Fairs and Events

Luxton Spring Fair (Victoria, BC): May 15–18 — carnival rides, midway games, food
SpeedFest at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Bowmanville): May 16–18 — features racing and fireworks
Ice Cream Festival at Casa Loma: May 17 — perfect for a sunny Saturday with the kids
May Long Weekend at Blue Mountain Village: May 17–19 — free concerts, outdoor activities, and more

8. Celebrate with Food & Drink

Food is central to Victoria Day celebrations. Think BBQs, patios, and seasonal snacks.

Must-try Victoria Day Eats:

Poutine: A greasy classic to end the night
Butter Tarts & Maple Treats: Found at local bakeries and vendors
Grilled Skewers & Street Food: Especially at food fests and night markets
Craft Beers & Summer Cocktails: Watch for local brews with seasonal releases

9. Sustainable Ways to Celebrate

Want to keep your celebration low-impact? Here are a few eco-friendly tips:

Bring a reusable bottle and bags to events
Skip the disposable BBQ gear—go reusable
Join a community cleanup if available
Support local artisans and food producers

10. Planning Tips for a Smooth Weekend

Book ahead: Camping, restaurants, and events fill up fast
Use transit: Some areas have limited parking on event days
Check weather forecasts: Pack a rain jacket just in case
Pack for comfort: Sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfy shoes go a long way

Quick FAQ: Victoria Day 2025

When is it?
Monday, May 19, 2025

Is it a statutory holiday?
Yes, in most provinces—except NB, NS, PEI, and Newfoundland.

What’s open?
Most major attractions, restaurants, and public parks. Grocery stores and banks may be closed.

Victoria Day 2025 is shaping up to be a full-on celebration—from coast to coast. Whether you’re all about hiking and fireworks, cultural events, or just soaking in the sun on a patio, this long weekend is made for you.

What’s your favourite way to spend Victoria Day? Let us know in the comments!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Victoria Day 2025: Events, Activities & Fireworks