People tend to escape the city on Victoria Day weekend. But if you’re stuck in Toronto, whether by chance or by choice, there are still plenty of fun activities happening that will keep you entertained.
READ: Where To Watch Victoria Day Fireworks In Toronto
From a spring art show in the Distillery District to a secret beer festival in Queen Victoria's honour, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Toronto this long weekend.
Read on for all the details...
1. Eye Candy Pop-Up Museum
Where: 322 Queen St. W.When: Friday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: $15 for weekdays (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), $20 for evenings (4 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and weekends
The city has seen its fair share of Insta-worthy pop-ups, but Eye Candy is truly unique. The newly opened exhibit features 12 Instagrammable rooms that are fresh and fun. Pose in a fake private jet, a cherry blossom field, a gold vault, and even a “Blockbuster” room. And don’t forget to bring the kids! They’re sure to love this interactive exhibit.
2. Queen Victoria's Secret Beer Festival
Where: Evergreen Brick Works — 550 Bayview Ave.When: Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Cost: Free!
Celebrate Queen Victoria the right way at this secret beer festival. Even though Evergreen Brick Works is keeping mum on what kinds of beers they’ll be serving, they've sold us on their drink deals. Beers will be $6 for the first hour of the event before being bumped up to $7. Now you have an excuse to get their early!
3. #FNLROM: Namaste
Where: Royal Ontario Museum — 100 Queen’s ParkWhen: Friday from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.Cost: $17 for adults; $15.50 for students; $5 for members
Kick off the long weekend at the ROM! This edition of Friday Night Live features free access to the special exhibit Treasures of a Desert Kingdom: The Royal Arts of Jodhpur, India. Eat, drink, dance, and explore at this unique event that mixes art, culture, and music.
BONUS: Victoria Day falls on the third Monday of the month, which means the ROM will be open on the holiday and will offer free admission during their extended hours (5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.).
4. Movement with Flow x Misfits
Where: Stackt — 28 Bathurst St.When: Saturday at 10 a.m.Cost: Free!
Start your day right with a special movement class brought to you by Flow and Misfit Studio. When you’re finished, take some time to explore Stackt market. Grab some treats from Donut Monster, shop vintage-inspired womenswear by Ellie Mae, and check out inkbox Tattoos.
5. Rib Fest Yonge-Dundas
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square — 1 Dundas St. E.When: Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.Cost: Free!
Rib lovers unite! This year’s fest will feature 26 tasty vendors, 15 craft beers and 12 live bands. Bring the whole family to enjoy some good food, music, and outdoor games. Pro tip: if you’re a diehard rib fanatic who hates long waits, consider buying a line pass card for $7.99!
6. “The Shining” at TIFF
Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox — 350 King St. W.When: Friday and Saturday at 8:45 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m.Cost: $14 for adults; $11.50 for seniors/students; $10 for kids
Watch Stanley Kubrick's classic adaptation of Stephen King’s bestselling book on the big screen. TIFF will show the original film on Friday night, and a stunning 4K restoration of it on Saturday and Sunday. The screening is sure to be a memorable one, regardless of whether or not you’ve seen the movie.
7. Artfest Toronto Spring Show
Where: Distillery District — 55 Mill St.When: Saturday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.Cost: Free!
Fine art, crafts, and gourmet food come together at this spring art show in the Distillery District. Eighty artists will showcase their work at the event, which will include photography, glass art, paintings, designer clothing, sculptures and more. There will also be live music and a free art workshop for kids, so be sure to bring the whole family!
8. Black Owned Food Market
Where: Wychwood Barns — 601 Christie St.When: Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.Cost: Free!
If you love music, culture, and good food, then be sure to check out The Black Owned Food Market this weekend. The event features afro-Caribbean cuisine and beverages, as well as vendors from black-owned businesses. All proceeds will go towards supporting black youth entrepreneurs.
9. Beer Beer Comedy Show
Where: The Social Capital — 154 Danforth Ave.When: Friday from 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: $5 for admission or $15 for admission and two drink tickets
Get your laugh on at this fun comedy show in the city’s east end. Comedians Mark Little, Kyle Dooley, Matt McCready, Natalie Metcalfe, and Colin Sharpe will headline this week’s show. Get ready for improve, hearty laughter, and good times.
10. Spring Streetsville Craft & Gift Show
Where: Vic Johnston Community Centre — 335 Church St., MississaugaWhen: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Cost: Free!
Those who love unique, handmade goods should head over to this spring craft show. This event will have more than 40 vendors in attendance, and will give guests the opportunity to win some amazing door prizes!
