It’s almost the end of May and we’re feeling hopeful about the start of a great summer — unless La Niña rains on our parade. This weekend seems promising for some fun in the sun, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the weather and the best of what the city has to offer, all at the same time.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Toronto this weekend so you can make the most of your precious days off.

Music on the River

Boating, music, warm nights — put ’em all together and you have what might just be the coolest live concert experience Toronto has to offer. Music on the River is a concert series right on the Humber River and you’ll get to paddle your way to the show. Your ticket comes with a boat rental, paddle, lifejackets, access to the show, and a glowstick to wave along with the music.

Where: Humber River Paddling Centre, 9 Old Mill Rd
When: Beginning on May 27, 2022

Spring into Spice Ethnic Outdoor Food & Wine Fest

Ready to take your taste buds on a trip around the world? Canada’s first-ever ethnic food and wine outdoor festival called Spring Into Spice is coming to Toronto this weekend and you may not need a passport for this culinary journey, but you’ll definitely need your appetite.

The one-day event will feature 30 ethnic vendors, wineries, and wine importers, so prepare for some seriously heavenly pairings.

Where: Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst St
When: May 28, 2022, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Pedestrian Sundays at Kensington Market

After a two-year hiatus, the Sunday street parties we know and love are officially coming back to Kensington Market. Pedestrian Sundays return for the season this weekend and will continue well into the fall. Toronto’s most eccentric neighbourhood will host a street-wide celebration of community, culture, and ecology, with a lively atmosphere that always attracts a crowd.

Where: Kensington Market
When: May 29, 2022

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Deeply Rooted Farmers’ Market

Toronto is a city with plenty of farmers’ markets, but this one is the first of its kind. Deeply Rooted is Toronto’s first-ever Black and Indigenous farmers’ market, highlighting Black and Indigenous vendors and making fresh locally-sourced foods more accessible to these communities. At the market, you’ll find a variety of fresh and in-season fruits, vegetables, ready-made food, and artisan goods sourced directly from local farmers and creators.

Where: 455 Cosburn Ave
When: Every Sunday until September 25, 2022

The Colourway

A whimsical new walkway has popped up in Toronto. The free outdoor pop-up, called The Colourway, is a series of rainbow arches made out of 5,000 recycled pool noodles. If you snap a photo of The Colourway, you’ll be given access to all kinds of deals and freebies at participating storefronts in the area, including free pizza, gym passes, clothing discounts, and more.

Where: 1479 Yonge St
When: Until June 24, 2022

Doors Open Toronto

Torontonians will once again get rare access into some of the city’s most interesting sites this weekend as part of the annual Doors Open Toronto event. With nearly 700 unique locations (including a hidden abandoned TTC station!) and over 2 million visits since the event began in 2000, this event is not to be missed if you love to explore the city.

Where: Various locations
When: May 28 — May 29, 2022

Splash Works Opening Day

The SplashWorks waterpark at Canada’s Wonderland officially opens on May 28 and there’s so much fun to be had this spring and summer. SplashWorks has a brand new cliff-jumping attraction called Mountain Bay Cliffs, along with Canada’s largest outdoor wave pool, 17 water slides, and a Lazy River. Get ready to slather on your suncreen and hit the slides!

Where: Canada’s Wonderland
When: May 28, 2022

 

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Inside Out 2022

Canada’s premier 2SLGBTQ+ film festival returns for in-person and virtual screenings. For almost 30 years, this event has brought together people of all ages, races and abilities in celebration of Canadian-made queer film. Year after year, the festival engages in challenging attitudes and changing lives through stories told on-screen. A can’t-miss festival for film buffs, community members, and allies alike.

Where: In-person & virtual
When: May 26-June 5, 2022

Sponsored Pick: Niagara’s Skylon Tower

Kick your weekend off on a high note with epic views from the tallest attraction in Niagara Falls – the Skylon Tower! Experience stunning views of the Falls and the entire city from both the observation deck and the Revolving Dining Room. Plan your visit to watch the sunset during dinner turn into the nightly Falls illumination with fireworks at 10 pm.

Where: 5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls

Cirque du Soleil

After a long hiatus, Cirque du Soleil has finally brought its iconic Big Top back to Toronto for a breathtaking performance. This Victoria Day, the city will be treated to Cirque du Soleil’s most critically acclaimed show, called KURIOS — Cabinet of Curiosities. The performers will take the stage at Ontario Place for a “mind-boggling” limited series of shows that combine acrobatics with art, poetry, and humour.

Where: Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W
When: Until July 17, 2022