Canada Day Activities for 2025: What to Do?
Canada Day is one such occasion in Toronto that perfectly vibrates to celebrate the locals as much as the tourists during the birthday of the nation. Starting from parades, the city fizzes with activities through to fireworks for everyone. Here are the top 10 things you can do in Toronto on Canada Day 2025!
Parades and Festivities
Kick off Canada Day with the parade wave here in Toronto. Colorful processions boasting marching bands, sizzling floats, and spirited performers navigate the streets of this city. Get out to one of the millions that line the parade routes, waving your Canadian flags and basking in the festive vibes. It’s a beautiful way to start your day and feel the community.
- Toronto Canada Day Parade: The Toronto Canada Day Parade begins at 10 AM on Bloor Street.
- Scarborough Celebrations: Parade kicks off at 11 AM from the Scarborough Civic Centre.
Virtual Reality Adventures
Do you long for something absolutely unique in the world of adventure? Experience the future with Levelup VR – Toronto’s premier virtual reality arcade. From young to old, Levelup VR immerses you in a journey toward another world. Be it killing zombies, futuristic car racing, or journeys through the realms of enchanted lands: there’s something for everyone at Levelup. Extended hours on Canada Day mean that it’s just the suitable indoor activity—especially for when the weather turns or you need a break from outside festivities. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience!
- Levelup VR Arcade: Open from 10 AM to midnight at 661 Yonge St.
Cultural Shows
Toronto’s rich cultural scene comes alive on Canada Day with many performances showcasing the city’s incredible diversity of talent. Live concerts, dance displays, and engaging theatrical performances can be witnessed live at various sites across the city. These showcase the cultural mosaic in Toronto, creating a day filled with rhythm and creativity.
- Harbourfront Centre Concerts: Shows running from noon onwards.
- Nathan Phillips Square: Dance and music performances from 2 PM.
Family Fun
Do you want to have fun with your family this Canada Day? The parks and public squares in Toronto are filled with entertainment suitable for the entire family, from face painting and games to interactive workshops. These activities offer families a safe and enjoyable way to celebrate together.
- High Park: Children’s games and activities occur between 11 AM and 5 PM.
- Toronto Zoo: Special Canada Day programming running between 9 AM and 6 PM.
Fireworks
Conclude your Canada Day with a spectacular fireworks show. Toronto has several locations where you can watch the colorful light shows that illuminate the nighttime sky. Just bundle up in a blanket, pick out a cozy spot along the waterfront or in one of the many parks throughout the city, and enjoy a spectacular show as the sky is illuminated in many colors. It is the perfect ending to the celebration.
- Ashbridges Bay Park: Fireworks at 10 PM.
- Canada’s Wonderland: Fireworks at 10 PM.
- Nathan Phillips Square: Fireworks display at 10 PM in the downtown area near the town hall.
Food and Beverages
Satiate your taste buds with Canada Day-themed food at Toronto’s best restaurants or food trucks. Get a delectable taste of several foods made from maple syrup or even gourmet poutine, among several other delicacies found in this city. Do not leave out your favorite dish without some craft beer or that special cocktail in the spirit of merriment.
- St. Lawrence Market: Special stalls for food for Canada Day are open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
- Toronto Food Truck Festival: Located at Woodbine Park, running from 11 AM to 9 PM.
Activities
For those who find adventures exciting and love to stay outdoors, Canada Day presents a beautiful chance to gaze through Toronto’s natural charms and encounter amusing experiences. Whether you prefer kayaking on Lake Ontario, cycling on scenic trails, or hiking amidst lush parks, there are plenty of things to do. Have a great day under the sun and explore everything an incredible summer day offers.
- Boating on Toronto Islands: Available daily for rent starting at 9 AM up until 7 PM.
- Biking along the Martin Goodman Trail: Bicycle rental options are available at a few locations along the trail.
- History Tours: Feeling historical? Visit historic sites such as Fort York and the Distillery District.
- Fort York National Historic Site: Tours open from 10 AM – 5 PM.
- Distillery District Walking Tours: Hourly walking tours at 11 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM.
Art Shows
Find the more artistic side of Canada Day with several art shows and exhibits. Toronto’s museums and galleries often have different art shows that showcase a history of expression and artistic flow in the country. Peruse these displays to be blown away by the talent.
- Art Gallery of Ontario: Open for Canada Day, 10 AM – 5:30 PM, featuring a special exhibit.
- Toronto Outdoor Art Fair: Nathan Phillips Square, also open 10 AM – 7 PM.
Art Shows
Find the more artistic side of Canada Day with several art shows and exhibits. Toronto’s museums and galleries often have different art shows that showcase a history of expression and artistic flow in the country. Peruse these displays to be blown away by the talent.
- Art Gallery of Ontario: Open for Canada Day, 10 AM – 5:30 PM, featuring a special exhibit.
- Toronto Outdoor Art Fair: Nathan Phillips Square, also open 10 AM – 7 PM.
Music Festivals
Go to one of the many music festivals in Toronto and dance the day away. With local and international talent, the festivals cater to and take care of all their audiences by offering the best retreats with music. Live concerts, great vibes, and a chance to have fun on Canada Day amidst music enthusiasts.
- Toronto Jazz Festival: The performances will be spread across the day at different hours inside numerous venues.
- Electric Island Festival: The doors to the dance and electronic music festival are open at 2 PM at Hanlan’s Point.
With everything from fireworks to parades, as well as VR experiences from Levelup—make the most of your Canada Day.
What's open and closed on Canada Day in Toronto?
Many places are teeming with activities, but importantly, note that:
Open:
- Public Parks and Beaches: Most parks and beaches will be open to offer an excellent place for picnics, walks, and enjoying the outdoors.
- Tourist Attractions: Several tourist attractions, including the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Toronto Zoo, will offer special programming for Canada Day.
- Shopping Districts: Eaton Centre, along with most larger-scale shopping centers, are usually open, but individual store hours may vary.
- Bars and Restaurants: Most dining establishments will be open, especially in the high tourism areas where they will have special meals and drinks.
Closed:
- Government Offices: Federal, provincial, and municipal offices will be closed.
- Banks: Most banks are usually closed on Canada Day.
- Libraries: Public libraries will be closed.
- Post Offices: No Canada Post locations are open.
- Some Grocery Stores: Many small convenience stores are open, but the larger grocery stores are closed, or they might have reduced hours.
Knowing what’s open and closed can help you plan your day, meaning a more effective and hassle-free way to celebrate Canada Day.
