Feel like a VIP as spring offers visitors a preview of what's happening this summer. Toronto-based travel writer, Natalie Preddie, tells you how to get a head start with these warm weather must-do's to enjoy now.
Home of the Toronto Blue Jays
Spring brings more sunshine, warmer weather and longer days – perfect for a sneak peek at all this dynamic city has to offer ahead of the summer crowds. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the excitement and renewal of spring in the 6ix.
A Different Type of Date Night
#FNLROM At The Royal Ontario Museum
If you’re looking for something a little louder, the Royal Ontario Museum hosts Friday Night Live (#FNLROM), a night of live indie bands, DJs, food and drinks. Each Friday is a different theme and guests can explore an exhibition or collection such as dinosaurs, photography or fashion throughout the party. Tickets are available online or at the door.
Music on the Beach
Electric Island
This outdoor summer concert and picnic series takes place from May through September on Hanlan’s Point, Toronto Islands. Some of the world’s best EDM artists take to the stage spinning essential techno mixes for excited crowds. Bring a picnic and don’t forget your glow sticks.
CBC Music Fest
The CBC Music Festival will celebrate spring and kick off summer on Echo Beach. This year, an all-Canadian line up will feature some of Canada’s top talents, including July Talk, A Tribe Called Red, Charlotte Day Wilson and the Rural Alberta Advantage. This year, the concert will also be streamed on CBCMusic.ca, YouTube and Facebook. The festival is also family-friendly and will offer a CBC Kids’ Zone that includes crafts, activities, entertainment throughout the day and a selection of food trucks.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Toronto Blue Jays Game
Toronto has winning sports teams. Our famed Boys of Summer play at the Rogers Centre downtown all week long. Catch a fly ball, kiss on the ‘Kiss cam’ and do the 7th inning stretch in the stands while world-class players slide into home. At specialty games, you can leave with a gift: Some people have gone home with jerseys, bobbleheads, or even umbrellas.
Onsite concession stands offer Toronto neighbourhood-inspired foods, ballpark classics (think hot dogs and nachos), sit-down dining, local craft brews and ciders, as well as classic beers and bar rail. The Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre is not only a sporting experience, it’s a Toronto culinary experience too!
Outdoor Eats
Spring Beerfest T.O.
May brings the spring session of legendary summer event, Toronto’s Festival of Beer. Historic Fort York will host live bands, Toronto’s favourite food trucks and most importantly, Canada’s top craft brews, all for you to taste and enjoy.
Try ten beers and ciders or fall in love with the first one you try and drink it all day. Fresh Ontario corn-on-the-cob, juicy burgers, delectable poutine and more are also available all day and into the night. As the sun sets, pair your beer with marshmallows and chill by the campfire. This is authentic Ontario cottage life in the heart of the city. Celebrate great beer, tasty food and #CottageVibes during the Victoria Day Long Weekend.
Pedestrian Sundays
Starting in the spring, vibrant and diverse Kensington Market celebrates the warmer weather with car-free Sundays. Explore Kensington Market like a local, walk through the colourful foot-traffic only streets and enjoy tantalizing food, watch engaging performers and explore vendors with unique and eclectic collections. You are almost guaranteed to discover something new. Filled with other happy pedestrians; Kensington Market is the ultimate version of your Sunday stroll.