If you’re a little low on funds but still want to attend some of the best concerts across Canada this summer, Live Nation is launching a ‘$30 Ticket to Summer’ promotion beginning May 21! True to its name, concert tickets across the country will go for just $30 and will include all service fees (although taxes will be added at checkout).
The deal is available for a limited time on select shows. While ticket purchase limits will vary by event, there’s no limit to how many different events you can buy tickets for!
The full list of concerts, dates and venue locations will be revealed on May 21, but a few artists/bands have already been announced:
$UICIDEBOY$
AJR
ALICE COOPER & JUDAS PRIEST
AVRIL LAVIGNE
BARENAKED LADIES
BIG TIME RUSH
BILLY IDOL
THE BLACK KEYS
BLINK-182
CODY JINKS
COHEED AND CAMBRIA
COUNTING CROWS
CREED
CYNDI LAUPER
DIERKS BENTLEY
DISPATCH
THE DOOBIE BROTHERS
THE DRIVER ERA
GLASS ANIMALS
GOO GOO DOLLS
HALSEY
HARDY
HAUSER
JAMES TAYLOR
KEITH URBAN
KESHA
KIDZ BOP KIDS
LEON BRIDGES
LITTLE BIG TOWN
+LIVE+ & COLLECTIVE SOUL
LUKE BRYAN
NELLY
THE OFFSPRING
PANTERA
PAPA ROACH & RISE AGAINST
PEACH PIT & BRISTON MARONEY
PIERCE THE VEIL
ROD STEWART
RUSS
SIMPLE MINDS
SIMPLE PLAN
SLIGHTLY STOOPID
STYX & KEVIN CRONIN BAND
SUMMER OF LOUD
TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND
THOMAS RHETT
TOTO + CHRISTOPHER CROSS + MEN AT WORK
TYLER CHILDERS
VOLBEAT
WEIRD AL YANKOVIC
WILLIE NELSON
Visit LiveNation.com/TicketToSummer to see the full list of participating events, select the concert you’re interested in, look for the ‘$30 Ticket to Summer’ ticket type, add the ticket(s) to your cart, and proceed to checkout!
Looking to break free from the office for a lunch with a kick? Sink your teeth into a flaky Caribbean classic: the Jamaican patty.
This pastry’s got a storied past in Toronto. 38 years ago, the city was rocked by the infamous “Patty Wars” when health inspectors decided that “beef patties” couldn’t legally be called patties. Why? Because, apparently, patties couldn’t come wrapped in dough. Outraged vendors fought back, and after a fiery public debate and high-stakes negotiations, they clinched the victory on February 23, 1985, keeping the name alive.
Today, Jamaican patties and jerk chicken continue to spice up Toronto’s food scene. If you’re in the mood for a taste of history and some serious flavour, here are the best spots to grab a patty and savour a piece of the city’s culinary rebellion.
Well, it’s a good thing vendors didn’t have to stop using the name patty, otherwise what would this place be called? At Pattylicious, even those who don’t eat beef or chicken can celebrate the occasion with a vegan Jamaican patty.
Island Foods
eatingyyz/Instagram
Today, Island Foods uses the same authentic recipes that it used in 1974 when it opened as one of Toronto’s first Caribbean restaurants. While you can certainly find newer Jamaican restaurants, sometimes the oldest do it best.
With six locations across the GTA, this Caribbean bakery is easy to find. But be warned: you might walk into the bakery with the intent of buying just a patty and leave with other Jamaican specials like oxtail, fried plantains, and jerk wings. Allwyn’s has it all.
You don’t need to be royalty to afford the patties from the queen herself. The hospitality is worth the trip alone but you can’t go wrong with these patties that are large and loaded—which is exactly what you want on Jamaican Patty Day.
Crumbs Gourmet Patties
Crumbs Gourmet Patties on Instagram
The patties at this favourite spot in Kensington Market are known for being ooey, gooey and oh-so stuffed. Check out Culinary Adventure Co. to discover how you can get a free patty from Crumbs today between 2:00 – 3:00.
A patty on the commute home from work might just be the best way to end the day. Fahmee’s homemade patties can be found at both Bathurst and Warden Station.
Located in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood at 796 Dundas St W., JunePlum by Patois opened last year to a legion of loyal fans. Featuring “the food and goods they’re so obsessed with that they had to open a space next door” the shop features the same sell-out-in-minute Jamaican patties popularized at Wong’s Weekender Cafe Pop-Up and feature fillings that include curry goat and smoked brisket.
Golden Patty
@julesjlceats/Instagram
Tucked into the chaos of Kensington Market, Golden Patty has earned cult status for its flaky Jamaican patties and unbeatable prices. The spicy beef is the undisputed fan favourite — loaded, flavourful and just the right kind of messy. Other options like jerk chicken and curry goat are also faves and customers rave about the friendly service, and quick takeout which has made it a go-to for so long.
Update: The Lunch Lady, the beloved Vietnamese street food icon made famous by Anthony Bourdain, has passed away. Nguyễn Thị Thanh died of cardiac arrest on May 19, 2025, shortly after arriving in Toronto ahead of her new restaurant opening. The Ossington location, originally set to open June 3, has been postponed.
Fifteen years ago, the late Anthony Bourdain stumbled upon a nameless lunch stall in a Ho Chi Minh City alley and declared it one of the best meals of his life. The woman behind the ladle was Nguyen Thi Thanh, now known around the world as The Lunch Lady — a nickname Bourdain himself helped bestow.
Now, her legendary soups and street food are finding a third home—this time on Ossington Avenue—following the 2020 launch of a Vancouver outpost, with the Toronto location set to open next month.
@thelunchlady/Instagram
The original stall became famous for serving a different soup every day, drawn from generations of family recipes. Bourdain described Thanh’s food as “discovering new neighbuorhoods every few mouthfuls” — high praise that turned a quiet corner of Saigon into one of the most popular spots in Thailand.
In an interview, a representative from The Lunch Lady shared insights into the Toronto expansion.
“We’re bringing over some of our most beloved dishes from Vancouver, but Toronto will have its own unique identity with exclusive new dishes inspired by the city’s energy and diverse food scene.”
Diners can expect signature favourites like Steak Lúc Lắc, Wagyu Phở Bò and Bún Bò Huế, alongside dishes that pay tribute to the original Saigon stall. But Toronto-exclusive creations are in the works too — all staying true to the bold, deeply layered flavours that made Thanh’s food a global phenomenon.
The new space at 93 Ossington (formerlyBoehmer) is getting a full redesign.
@thelunchlady/Instagram
“The space is being completely reimagined to feel warm, vibrant and transportive,” the rep explains. We’re drawing inspiration from the bustling markets of Saigon, incorporating rich textures, layered lighting, and elements that reflect Vietnam’s culinary culture: ringing in artwork, handcrafted elements, and nods to chef Nguyễn Thị Thành’s original street stall.”
And yes, the Lunch Lady herself will be part of it.
“Ms. Nguyễn Thị Thanh’s influence is at the heart of The Lunch Lady, and that won’t change in Toronto,” they say. “She’ll be here for the grand opening, and plans to visit frequently to share her expertise, and connect with guests. Toronto will definitely have the chance to experience The Lunch Lady through her eyes and her cooking firsthand.”
To mark the opening, the team has planned a series of preview dinners, pop-ups and chef collaborations.
“Toronto has an incredible food culture, and we’re excited to be part of it.”
The Lunch Lady officially opens on June 3. You can make reservations here.
Jim Carrey, Toronto’s beloved comedy icon, is still looking for a buyer for his sprawling Los Angeles estate, two years after it first hit the market.
The estate is nestled in Brentwood, one of L.A.’s most sought-after neighborhoods, and has been Carrey’s home for three decades. Known for his breakout roles in Ace Ventura, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber, Carrey’s career expanded into more serious territory with acclaimed performances in The Truman Show and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. His distinctive energy and physical comedy first earned him a following in Toronto’s comedy circuit, particularly at the landmark Yuk-Yuks club, before launching him into international stardom.
Images of Jim Carrey’s Brentwood property
The property, originally listed at $26.5 million in 2023, has undergone several price cuts and re-listings. By December, the ranch-style home was pending sale for $19.75 million, but according to public records, the deal ultimately fell through. The estate was relisted two months later at the same price, but with no buyers, the listing was slashed again, bringing it down to $18.75 million as of May 2.
Outside of acting, Carrey has pursued creative projects ranging from writing—penning both a children’s book and the novel Memoirs and Misinformation—to fine art and political commentary, often shared via social media. He also briefly returned to the spotlight portraying Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live. In 2022, Carrey announced that he would be stepping away from acting and has since relocated to his vacation home in Maui, prompting the sale of the Brentwood estate.
Described by Carrey as “a place of enchantment and inspiration,” the property is tucked behind tall hedges and private red-brick gates. The 12,700-square-foot ranch-style home includes five bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and three half-baths. Inside, high-beamed ceilings and skylights flood the interiors with natural light, highlighting the actor’s extensive and eclectic art collection, much of it his own.
Images of Jim Carrey’s Brentwood property
The home also features an Art Deco-style movie theater inspired by grand cinema palaces, complete with mohair-covered sofas, burl wood columns, and a marble bathroom. Outside, the nearly two-acre grounds are a rarity in Los Angeles and include a full-size tennis court, a waterfall-fed swimming pool, a pool house with bar, a sauna and steam room, vegetable gardens, and shaded walking paths that lead to a yoga and meditation platform. In the listing photos, subtle nods to Carrey’s film career can be spotted, including costumes from past roles, such as his turn as the Riddler in Batman Forever.
Despite its impressive amenities and storied history, the property has yet to sell. The latest price cut could entice buyers seeking a one-of-a-kind Los Angeles retreat with celebrity pedigree—assuming they act before the next adjustment.
Toronto’s culinary scene is about to get a taste of nostalgia with a Ginsberg and Wong pop-up. This marks the first collaboration between Toronto chefs Anthony Rose of Fat Pasha and Trevor Lui of Highbell Hospitality, who will resurrect the spirit of the original Ginsberg and Wong — a legendary Chinese-Jewish fusion restaurant (if you haven’t guessed by the name already) — for one night only on May 27.
The original Ginsberg and Wong, situated in the Village by the Grange, was a mainstay in the city for years before it closed its doors in the 90’s with iconic combinations of dishes such as pastrami egg rolls, fried rice and gourmet footlong hot dogs. This pop-up promises a reimagined menu playing off the classic dishes.
“We’re doing this kind of matzah ball–wonton soup to start — Chinese aromatics, little dumpling-sized matzah balls,” says Rose, clearly excited about the new menu. “And my favourite: corned beef egg rolls.”
“We’re also doing a pineapple fried rice, served right in the core of the pineapple,” adds Lui. “Traditionally, we make it with cooked ham, but for this version, we’re using pastrami.”
Rose and Lui know more than anyone the legacy they’re bringing back and how important it is to do it justice —not just by honing in on the nostalgia of Ginsberg and Wong, but by elevating it too. Rose remembers the original fondly, even spending many of his birthdays there.
“Between the ages of eight and around 13 or 14 — other than my bar mitzvah — I was there as much as possible,” he says, recalling his go-to order. “It would be the pastrami egg roll, and then I’d look through the menu to find the biggest burger with the most junk on it,” he jokes.
When asked about the inspiration behind bringing back Ginsberg and Wong it’s not just nostalgia driving the bus. It’s also rooted in a deep love and respect for each other and their cultural cuisines.
For Lui, the collaboration is both personal and long overdue.
“I’m a huge fan of Anthony’s — we’ve worked in the same circles but never actually together, so I was like, ‘chef crush, let’s do it, man,’” Lui says. He also reflects on the cultural intersections that shaped the original Ginsberg and Wong, and the role Toronto played in that history. With Chinatown and Kensington Market as neighbouring communities, he remembers the closeness between them — and the personal impact it had on him growing up.
“My parents would go grocery shopping in Chinatown, with stops at the delis along the way,” he recalls. “I remember my mom grabbing me a kosher pickle on a stick from one of them—just to keep me quiet while we shopped.”
If all goes well, this could open the door to more collaborations in the future. Whether or not that means more Ginsberg and Wong, it hardly matters — these two chefs have a way of making everything they touch feel fresh, exciting, and entirely their own.
“I think Anthony and I are just passionate about it — the value of having people around a table and just enjoying a good meal. And if you can sort of bring back some memories while you’re doing it and get some fun out of it — why not, right?”
The Ginsberg and Wong pop-up takes place on May 27th at Fat Pasha. You can get tickets here.
From its cultural tapestry and world-renowned gastronomy to its obscure history, Toronto is a pleasure to uncover by foot. With countless walking tours at your fingertips, there’s no reason not to explore this marvelous city with the knowledge and enthusiasm of an expert guide. Whether you crave exploring little-known epicurean delights, want the insights of a local historian, or love the idea of trailing on the coattails of an immersive storyteller, here are Toronto’s 10 best walking tours that are perfect for a day of discovery.
Berczy Park Dog Fountain, one of the highlights of ROMWalks. Courtesy rom.on.ca
Get a dose of history beyond the walls of the ROM and join a walking tour. With free guided tours twice a week from May to October, all you need to do is show up at the starting point and search for the trademark umbrella. This year, the ROM will host walks through Yorkville, Queen’s Park, Riverdale and more.
Join one of several guided tours and nature walks that will open up a whole new side of this beloved greenspace. From uncovering the garden’s history to learning about plant species and green initiatives, there’s lots for green thumb enthusiasts to experience. To explore beyond the garden gate, join the annual neighbourhood garden tour to peek into some spectacular private gardens. Running since 1988, this year’s featured locale is Hogg’s Hollow.
There’s no denying that Toronto is a food lover’s paradise. Known as one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world, you can find practically any cuisine on earth right here at your doorstep (how wonderful is that?). To uncover what makes this city an epicurean dream, join an award-winning Tasty Tour and explore local delights in places like Kensington Market and downtown Toronto.
Don’t let your fears stop you from exploring the fascinating world of Toronto’s storied cemeteries. As any historian (or nature lover) will tell you, these peaceful green spaces offer a fascinating glimpse into the local past — and there’s no better way to unearth it than with a knowledgeable local guide. Stop by the Necropolis or Mount Pleasant Cemetery for free, themed tours on select dates.
The Resistance and Reconciliation Walking Tour, courtesy heritagetoronto.org.
Toronto’s layered past may often be overlooked, but for those who seek to uncover its unique legacy, there are many under-told stories to be discovered. Join Heritage Toronto for one of several walking tours through places like Cabbagetown, the Village, and the Canary District and explore angles of Toronto, new and old, you may have never known.
From a fascinating hub of alcohol production and prohibition-era shenanigans to a derelict space popular for films to the present-day tourist attraction filled with boutiques and exceptional dining, the Distillery District has worn many faces over the years. Whether you’re into history, food or culture, the best way to uncover this unique part of town is on a guided walking (or segway) tour.
Get in touch with your sixth sense and join a Toronto ghost tour. Not only a fun way to spend an evening in October, these Haunted Walks are offered from spring until late fall. Explore what goes bump in the night at Black Creek Pioneer Village, learn about the spectres of the Distillery District, the ghouls of U of T and more. With captivating tales told through immersive storytelling, these twilight tours are certainly memorable.
Presented by the same creators as Haunted Walks, this delightfully offbeat tour gets you, well, off the beaten path and face-to-face with the quirky side of Toronto. Perfect for the curious at heart and those with a sense of humor, you’ll enjoy every minute uncovering the city’s hidden delights, strange stories and bizarre histories.
Rated as one of the best tours in Toronto, Bruce Bell’s guided exploration of St. Lawrence Market runs every day except Mondays. Join Bruce as he unfolds the very best of this world-class market — from its history to its hidden gems and, of course, culinary delights. To reserve your spot on this popular experience, be sure to pre-book online.
The Downtown Toronto Walking Tour, courtesy tourguys.ca
Whether you’re interested in exploring Toronto’s street art, its history or its food and culture, the Tour Guys have you covered. Looking for a combination of things? Why not try their beer and history tour and enjoy a pint with a side of yesteryear tales? Perfect for locals and visitors alike, join one of their professionally guided walking tours and experience Toronto like you never have before.
Same Same, Toronto’s newest Thai restaurant, is set to open May 22 under the ownership of Jesse Warfield and Phanom Suksaen (owner of Toronto restaurants Le Lert, Savor, Larb Muang, Aamara and Koh Lipe,) but the inspiration for the concept revolves around a Vancouverite.
“Chef Tempo” aka chef Warakorn Suriyawong, first moved from Thailand to Vancouver to pursue his Canadian culinary career. At elevated Thai restaurant Song, he earned Michelin Bib Gourmand, and also met Suksean. Earlier this year, Tempo followed Suksean to Toronto to head up his new restaurant, Same Same.
@samesamethaito/Instagram
Having never lived in Toronto before, Tempo says he likes the city, though he finds it a bit busy. He’s used to the slow pace of mountain hiking and camping, and hasn’t had the time to be outdoors as much in Toronto. His motivation for moving, he says, was to familiarize Torontotonians with his work, create a more upscale menu and determine the flavour that Canadian Thai food should have.
“The Thai food here is a little bit different from Vancouver,” he says, explaining that Southern Thai is very authentic in Vancouver, but that Toronto has more Northern Thai food which more closely resembles the Thai food he enjoyed at home in Thailand. “In Vancouver, Thai food is all around [but there’s] not much specific regional food. I find that Toronto is more open about food than anywhere else in Canada.”
To date the restaurant only has five-star reviews and aims for a high standard of cuisine and service, as reflected by the expensive menu prices. Behind the scenes, an unsuspecting individual, general manager Othman Zegai has been working diligently to ensure the restaurant’s success.
@samesamethaito/Instagram
Originally from Paris, Zegai worked in the hospitality industry for over 10 years, for high-end chefs and restaurants, before an unintentional trip to Canada during the COVID pandemic got him stuck in the country.
“I was not even supposed to be here in the first place, and then I was like, you know what, I’m just going to choose to stay here, and I started working,” he says.
Despite his experience, he had to build his way up to land a job here — something he said he didn’t mind at all because he’s a hard worker. He began as a dishwasher, and made his way up to line cook, cook, supervisor, then kitchen manager. After a few years, he began managing different restaurants and clubs downtown.
@samesamethaito/Instagram
“I loved it, and this is really something that I enjoy doing, which is why I’m still working in this industry even though I put in a lot of hours,” he says. “Especially doing openings, there’s a lot of work that people aren’t aware of, a lot of logistics to deal with in the background. But honestly, if you love your job and you like what you’re doing, I’m sure you’re not going to be looking at your watch anytime soon.”
With Same Same, he says the owners had the concept in mind for quite some time, but were missing a key piece–”most likely chef himself,” says Zegai. “We had to find the perfect chef, somebody that knows about Thai food, somebody that has experience, and somebody that can understand what the customer would like to have, especially on King Street.”
Once chef Tempo entered the picture, everything fell into place. He created the entire menu, and the service ethos rose up around it. “Here’s the thing, we call ourselves ‘Thai, but different,’ ” says Zegai.
The menu features signature cocktails inspired by characters of the popular White Lotus TV series (season three) and dishes quite literally differentiated as “Same” and “Same But Different.”
Chef Tempo and his team from Song
“Same” features plates like oysters, crab and deep fried giannone wingette, while “Same But Different” features locally inspired plates like Canadian royal white sturgeon caviar and Hudson Valley’s Moulard duck leg.
“And the reason why we call it ‘different’ is because we truly try to be different in terms of food quality, but also in terms of drink quality, and in terms of service itself,” says Zegai. He notes that even guests who don’t typically like Thai food have stated that Same Same tastes different than what they’re used to.
Working in high end restaurants taught Zegai that perfect service meant paying attention to details and always being one step ahead, which is exactly what he taught the service staff to do. It’s about always taking that extra effort to make sure guests feel special. An example of that is Chef’s table, a reservation in which chef Tempo will personally present the dishes to guests, and explain the cuisine in detail.
Zegai is also going out of his way to bring high-profile guests to the restaurants, having already extended personal invites to celebrities, NBA players, and even Shark Tank investors. At present he is working on a collaboration with TIFF to host the producers, and celebrities attending the festival. “I’m here to create a relationship between myself and patrons,” he says.
After he gets Same Same off the ground, Zegai aspires to open his own French bistro in Toronto, a goal that he believes he can achieve in close to two years.
Lead photo: Summer Music in the Garden – Harbourfront Centre
As the weather warms up, Toronto’s waterfront transforms into one of the city’s top destinations. With lakeview patios, the return of lively festivals, boat tours, kayak rentals and sunny days filled with cycling and beach days on the Toronto Islands, rising temperatures bring a fresh wave of activity to the waterfront.
Patios with a View
Patio – The Goodman Pub & Kitchen – Waterfront BIA
Torontonians are notorious for their patio enthusiasm. And nothing complements a sunny day like dining al fresco with lakefront views. With most patios opening their doors this weekend, here’s a list of some scenic patios to enjoy:
The waterfront comes alive this time of year with an incredible lineup of festivals and events. From the return of the historic Tall Ships Festival to musical performances, food markets and a variety of cultural events, there’s truly something for everyone. Here are some highlights of waterfront events that will keep you busy this season.
For those eager to take to the water, Toronto’s waterfront offers diverse boating experiences. From a scenic tall ship cruise aboard the historic Kajama, to sailing adventures with Gone Sailing Adventures, to kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding at Toronto Island SUP or Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre, there are so many options.
Biking Along the Waterfront
Biking – Joseph Michael Photography
Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the Martin Goodman Trail, a path providing picturesque views of Lake Ontario and access to key attractions. No bike? No problem. Convenient rental options on the waterfront include Wheel Excitement as well as island rentals such as Toronto Island Bicycle Rental and Bike Share Toronto, launching on the islands this weekend.
Exploring the Toronto Islands
Escape the city and discover the charm of the Toronto Islands this season. Whether you’re biking scenic trails, relaxing on the beach, paddling through peaceful lagoons, or enjoying a picnic or patio with skyline views, the Islands offer the perfect warm-weather getaway—just a short ferry or water taxi ride away!
This season, the waterfront is the place to be—make it your go-to destination! Dine on a lakeview patio, dive into a vibrant new festival, get out on the water, or escape to the island—your adventure starts on the waterfront. Visit waterfrontbia.com>> to plan your visit.
Canada’s largest and longest-running outdoor art fair is heading to Nathan Phillips Square this summer! The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (TOAF), which debuted in 1961, is returning for its 64th year from July 11 to 13, so both locals and visitors can enjoy a full weekend of art and culture.
This year’s roster boasts over 400 indie artists, including 70 from across Canada and 155 artists joining the fair for the first time. This year’s notable picks include contemporary artist Alex Hall, Toronto-based visual artist Bounthanh Inthavaly, and Korean-Canadian visual artist Ellee SY Lee, highlighting the diversity and creativity that TOAF showcases.
Many nationally and internationally acclaimed artists have gotten their start under TOAF’s iconic white tents, including Barbara Astman, David Blackwood, Edward Burtynsky, Ken Danby, Rob Gonsalves, Harlan House, Joanne Tod, Jennifer Stead and more — so this is a rare chance to discover rising artists before they make it big!
The fair will take place under sprawling white tents, and visitors will have the opportunity to browse through the most unique original works of art!
This year’s highlights include:
The National Corner — TOAF is making a special effort to showcase more Canadian artists from outside Ontario than ever before, with 70 artists from all across Canada, including Alberta, British Columbia, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Québec, and beyond! You can admire the vast talent of these Canadian artists in the National Corner zone.
The Atlantic Canada Zone — This special showcase is dedicated to emerging artists from Atlantic Canada. Curated by Bushra Junaid, the zone will debut the works of five or more emerging artists, including Luanne Dominix, a renowned watercolour artist from Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland).
The Québec Zone will return with 27 in-person artists and five online artists; this showcase is organized in partnership with the Bureau du Québec à Toronto.
The Northwest Territories Online Showcase will boast five online artists and one in-person artist, amplifying voices from Northern Canada!
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair visitors can also expect a bunch of onsite programs, including new dance commissions, curated art tours, artist talks, and interactive experiences in collaboration with the Museum of Toronto, The Power Plant and Small World Music. Online Programs will include digital studio tours, artist chats and curated online collections.
Best of all, admission is free! The fair takes place at Nathan Phillps Square, 100 Queen St W, July 11-13 between 10 am and 7 pm. Click here for more info and here to see the full list of participating artists.
Victoria Day takes place on Monday, May 19 this year! To help you make the most of the unofficial start of summer, here’s a list of what’s open and closed.
Public transit
TTC: All TTC routes will operate on a Sunday schedule but will start earlier (at approximately 6 am). Any routes that don’t normally operate on Sundays won’t be in operation.
Go Transit: Go Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule.
Government services
Municipal, provincial, and federal government offices (including passport offices and Service Canada centres) will be closed on Monday.
Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library branches will be closed on Sunday, May 18 and Monday, May 19, 2025. You can return books and other materials when the library is closed, but they won’t be cleared from your account right away. Online services are always available.
Postal and delivery services
Canada Post, FedEx, and Purolator will be closed on Monday, May 19.
Banks
In-person banking at most banks will be closed on Monday, but customers can still access their accounts through online and mobile banking services.
The Beer Store: Eighty-two Beer Store locations will be open on Monday! Most will remain open from 11 am to 6 pm, but check your local store for confirmation.
Restaurants and eateries
Most restaurants will remain open on Monday! Click here for the best new restaurants to check out in Toronto for Victoria Day weekend.
Grocery stores
Most grocery stores will be closed on Monday. Here are a few that will remain open (just double-check before heading out):
Rabba Fine Foods: All Rabba locations are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Loblaws (60 Carlton St): Check for holiday hours before you head out.
Kitchen Table (705 King St W): Open 7 am – 12 am.
Whole Foods in Yorkville: Open 8 am – 6 pm.
T&T Supermarket: Locations will remain open until 10 pm.
Galleria Supermarket: Locations will remain open until 10 pm.
Malls
Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St): Open 11 am – 7 pm.
Vaughan Mills: Open 11 am – 7 pm.
Markville Shopping Centre (5000 Hwy. 7 E): Open 11 am – 6 pm.
Toronto Premium Outlets (13850 Steeles Ave): Open 9:30 am – 7 pm.
Pacific Mall (4300 Steeles Ave. E): Open 11 am – 8 pm.
Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall, Etobicoke): Closed on Monday.
CF Shops at Don Mills: Closed on Monday.
Yorkdale Shopping Centre (3401 Dufferin St, North York): Closed on Monday.
Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr, Scarborough): Closed on Monday.
Dufferin Mall (900 Dufferin St): Closed on Monday.
Fairview Mall (1800 Sheppard Ave E): Closed on Monday.
The summer season is just around the corner! To help celebrate the warmer weather, there will be tons of free events at the reimagined Downsview Airport lands in the coming months. Running from May to October, “For the Love of Free” programming activities at the YZD lands will be accessible, inclusive and creative — so, perfect if you’re looking to enjoy a staycation amid Toronto’s affordability crisis. The summer season is expected to help attract over 800,000 visitors to the site!
From a giant public play space to free drive-in movies and an interactive street festival, there’ll be something for everyone to discover this summer at YZD.
Runway Rivers
When: Saturdays, June 14 – October 11, 11 am – 5 pm
Explore the history of Toronto’s waterways through Runway Rivers, a unique and immersive experience on YZD’s expansive runway! Visitors will “paddle” hand-made and specialized canoes along painted pathways, tracing the routes of Toronto’s long-lost waterways (this will be part of the 2025 Luminato Festival).
This summer marks the debut of YZD’s weekly Farmers’ Market, bringing together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors from the north of Toronto! Expect a ton of fresh produce, delicious handmade goods, and ready-to-eat treats, accompanied by live music. For those looking for a deeper connection with the environment, the market will offer free, nature-based workshops, including guided walks, beekeeping demonstrations, Indigenous gardening and hands-on planting activities.
Visitors can check out an actual moving forest! A flock of 50 Red, Silver, and Sugar Maple trees will be secured to shopping carts and playfully travel throughout the city, stopping to create refreshing shade canopies in sunny spaces. This mobile-tree journey will shed light on the importance of equitable access to green spaces in urban environments, travelling from YZD to The Bentway Studio to the Waterfront Neighbourhood and Harbourfront Centres.
Hangar Jam
When: July 19 – 20, 12 pm – 6 pm
This will be a two-day celebration of street art! International artists, led by Toronto-based collective One Day Creates, will transform industrial shipping containers into works of art, giving visitors an inside look at the creative process. For those looking to get involved, a community mural will give you the chance to leave your mark. The event will also host skateboarding and dance competitions, free skateboarding lessons, with live sets from some of Toronto’s top DJs.
Play on the Runway
When: August 9 – 10, 12 pm – 5 pm
The airport’s two-kilometre-long runway will once again transform into a giant, lively playground for two days of fun! Bring the entire family and enjoy free roller skating and scooter rentals, skateboarding and roller-skating lessons and performances by professional kite flyers.
Runway Reels
When: Fridays and Saturdays, Oct 3 – 4, 10 – 11 (Films begin at sundown)
Head to the runway for a free outdoor movie series set against the iconic YZD hangars! Each evening highlights a new cultural theme with family-friendly pre-show programming, live performances, and tons of food. Choose drive-in or lounge-style seating and settle in for a night of connection, culture, and discovery under the stars. It’s cute for date night or even a family outing.
Beyond the headline activities, there’ll be tons of free workshops and drop-in classes at the Experience Centre each week, focusing on a blend of art, design and technology. These events will be hosted by a mix of Indigenous-led and community-based organizations.
Visitors can also explore Plaza Play, a nature-inspired public space featuring a deconstructed airplane-turned playground! Nearby, the Indigenous Hub is a welcoming space where Indigenous youth leaders invite guests to connect with the land through cultural practices, everything from gardening and harvesting to making traditional corn husk dolls. And then there’s a curated Art Walk — a lively pathway showcasing murals by prominent local artists from across the GTA!
The airport is located at 123 Garratt Blvd, North York, and is accessible by TTC (it’s a short walk from Downsview Park Station). Click here for the full season brochure and up-to-date event listings.
