Victoria Day: What’s Open, What’s Closed, and Where to Watch the Fireworks.
Victoria Day is just around the corner! On May 18, Environment Canada’s forecast calls for a warm day with a mix of sun and clouds, with temperatures reaching a high of 27°C and a low of 17°C. It’s the perfect opportunity to get outside and shake off the winter blues!
So, what’s open on Victoria Day, and what isn’t? More importantly, where can you watch the fireworks that evening?
What’s Open:
Attractions:
– CN Tower
– Ripley’s Aquarium
– Royal Ontario Museum
– Art Gallery of Ontario
– Toronto Zoo
– All City of Toronto golf courses
– Hockey Hall of Fame
Shopping and Retail:
Starting this year, retailers across Ontario can now choose to open on Victoria Day due to changes to the Retail Business Holidays Act, though it is not mandatory, according to the Retail Council of Canada.
Gas stations, convenience stores, and other essential retailers are generally allowed to open on statutory holidays, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.
– CF Toronto Eaton Center
– Toronto Premium Outlets
– Scarborough Town Center
– Yorkdale Shopping Center
– Square One Shopping Center
What’s Closed:
– All federal, provincial, and municipal government offices
– Toronto Public Library branches
– Community centers
– Banks
Transit Information:
Line 6 Finch West will be closed during the long weekend. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and Metrolinx announced that Line 6 Finch will be closed from Friday at 2:30 a.m. until Tuesday at 4 a.m. for system upgrades and to prepare for the FIFA World Cup.
Replacement shuttle buses will operate along Finch Avenue West during this closure.
According to Metrolinx officials, this planned closure aims to prepare for increased ridership during major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Where to Watch the Fireworks:
The City of Toronto will host Victoria Day fireworks at Ashbridge’s Bay, starting at 10 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to leave personal vehicles at home and use available public transport. Routes and schedules are available through the city’s transit resources.
If you’re planning your own fireworks watch party, the City of Toronto allows residents to set off fireworks on their private properties before 11 p.m. on Victoria Day, as stated in a City of Toronto press release.
Enjoy the festivities and be safe.
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