One of the most anticipated Victoria Day events in Toronto is the annual fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park. This year, on Monday, May 19, the city is set to continue its tradition of lighting up the skies in the east end with an awe-inspiring display of fireworks.
According to official city sources, the fireworks will start at 10 p.m. and run for approximately 14 minutes.
The park is TTC accessible, available via the 92 Southbound from Woodbine Station or the 501 Queen Streetcar. But savvy fireworks regulars will know that these routes are usually packed, and a good way to skip the crowd is the 22 Southbound from Coxwell Station.
Parking is available, with two Green P lots at Woodbine Beach and Ashbridges Bay. However, given the fireworks display’s popularity, we recommend taking public transit.
Where to watch the fireworks in Toronto
If you’re worried about crowds around Ashbridges Bay Park, there are a few key vantage points from which to watch the fireworks.
Some in-the-know Toronto residents have recommended scouting out a hill in Woodbine Park or staying further east near Kew-Balmy Beach. You can also opt for Tommy Thompson Park Pavilion or somewhere along the Eastern Beaches.
The hottest tip comes from one Reddit user who recommends the parking lot at the Leslie and Lakeshore Loblaws. “[It’s] close but far from the crowds. You’ll get a good view and beat the rush when it’s over.”
If you want to be where the action is, your best bet is to show up early, with some recommending showing up as early as 2 p.m. But few quarrels are proposing a full beach day with friends, especially when you’re right near the Beaches Disc Golf Course.
Other fireworks hotspots in Toronto
If you can’t make it down to Ashbridges Bay Park, Canada’s Wonderland puts on a — for lack of a better word — wonderful fireworks display.
The park describes it as an “explosive, custom-designed fireworks display set to an original soundtrack that you won’t find anywhere else in Toronto!”
The show there also starts at 10 p.m., and select rides will be closed early to make room for the display. But again, not a bad way to cap off a fun-filled day of rides.
If you want your own, personal fireworks celebration, the City’s bylaws allow for the personal use of fireworks on Victoria Day before 11 p.m. with a permit secured by emailing TFS Events.
Remember to use responsibly, as the City doesn’t allow fireworks in parks or on beaches, on a street, in a parking lot, on a balcony, or on any private property that is not your own.
Victoria Day fireworks
When: Monday, May 19, at 10 p.m.
Where: Ashbridge Bay Park — 1561 Lake Shore Blvd. E.
Tickets: Free
