When and where you can watch Victoria Day fireworks in the Toronto area

A handy guide for those looking to enjoy a fireworks display this long weekend.

It’s Victoria Day weekend (a.k.a. May long weekend, a.k.a. May 2-4). For some, that means the unofficial start of cottage season. For others, it means an extra day off in the city to enjoy some decent weather and find fun stuff to do.

For still others, it means fireworks.

If you’re setting them off yourself, the City has some guidelines for you, including a rule that they’re permitted on private property only on Victoria Day.

But the City also provides an annual display to save you the trouble. This year, the big event is taking place at Ashbridges Bay Park on Victoria Day (Mon., May 22) at 10:00 p.m., and promises a “spectacular finale” — so feel free to raise those expectations.

Of course, no sweat if you can’t make that one as Ashbridges Bay isn’t the only spot in the Greater Toronto Area where you can enjoy a giant fireworks display. We tracked down multiple others, a few of which are attached to other unique events.

Read on for the list, or check the map accompanying this article to find the fireworks display nearest you.

Organizer description: “The City will present Victoria Day fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park starting at 10 p.m. on Monday, May 22. The show will feature beautiful fireworks and a spectacular finale.

“Ashbridges Bay Park is located on Lake Shore Boulevard East at the foot of Coxwell Avenue and is accessible by public transit. Attendees are encouraged to use public transit and leave personal vehicles at home. Information about TTC schedules, routes and expanded long weekend service is available at www.ttc.ca.”

Organizer description: “The Castrol Victoria Day SpeedFest kicks-off Canadian Tire Motorsport Park’s 2023 major event season with the NASCAR Pinty's Series featured on track and fireworks lighting up the sky at this holiday weekend classic.

“There's plenty of off-track excitement for race fans of all ages to enjoy, including interactive displays, vendors, food, the Beer Garden, and live music Saturday night in the CTMP Marketplace, while the Canadian Tire Fun Zone serves up fun activities for families with younger kids…

“A special highlight is our traditional Victoria Day fireworks display Saturday night. Launched at dusk from Corner 1, the fireworks show is a spectacular celebration for your first long weekend of the summer.”

Organizer description: “The Victoria Day Fireworks are back! Join us for a free, family-friendly event at the beautiful Dundas Driving Park…

“Programming from 4:00 p.m. to dark (includes) live music and face painting, as well as food trucks, coffee, snacks & glow sticks available for purchase before the fireworks.”

Organizer description: “Come out Saturday, May 20, to watch some exciting live Standardbred racing, dine in one of Woodbine Mohawk Park’s restaurants, and watch a spectacular fireworks show. Doors open at 5 p.m.”

Organizer description: “Join us for our signature Fireworks Show beginning at dusk. Presented by King Fire & Emergency Services, the Nobleton Victoria Day Fireworks have been credited as one of the best Victoria Day Fireworks display in Ontario! Be sure to come early because parking and space fills quickly. Bring your own blankets and/or lawn chairs.

“Come early for a special performance by the Practically Hip! Starting at 7:30 p.m. before the fireworks.”

Organizer description: “More than 375 people-hours go into designing and mounting the show, with 11 separate firing positions and 1,800 firing cues creating a spectacular display above the park skyline and our iconic Wonder Mountain.

“For approximately 15 minutes, you’ll witness more than 6,000 colourful explosions, reaching heights of over 800 feet, which is sure to ignite thrills for guests of all ages.”

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