Toronto is a city that transforms with the seasons. Winter blankets the streets in snow, bringing ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and cozying up in warm cafés. Spring shakes off the cold, bursting into bloom with cherry blossoms, outdoor patios, and cultural festivals. Summer sees the waterfront buzzing with life, from boat cruises to music festivals, while autumn paints the city in golden hues, setting the stage for harvest markets and crisp evening walks. Each season offers a unique transition, making Toronto a dynamic place to explore year-round. Spring, however, is when the city awakens—flowers bloom, patios open, and events fill the calendar. With the Spring Equinox around the corner –March 20th to be exact, here’s how to make the most of it. Start planning!
1. Cherry Blossoms in High Park
Toronto’s most famous spring bloom, the cherry blossoms, have a history tied to Japan. In 1959, the Japanese ambassador to Canada gifted the city sakura trees as a sign of friendship, planting many of them in High Park. Today, the delicate pink petals attract thousands of visitors annually, creating a short-lived but breathtaking scene. If you want to avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on a weekday.
Location: High Park – 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3
Best Time to Visit: Late April to early May
Alternative Spots to See Cherry Blossoms:
- Trinity Bellwoods Park – 790 Queen St W
- University of Toronto (Robarts Library area) – 130 St. George St
- Centennial Park – 256 Centennial Park Rd
2. Patio Season Returns
When Toronto’s temperatures rise, the patios come alive. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail in Yorkville, enjoying craft beer in Kensington Market, or indulging in a gourmet meal on King Street, there’s something special about eating outdoors in spring. Many of these patios stay open into fall, making this the kickoff to months of outdoor dining.
Location: Throughout Toronto (King Street, Distillery District, Kensington Market, Yorkville)
Opens: Early April (weather dependent).
Patio Hotspots:
- The Pilot (22 Cumberland St) – Famous rooftop patio in Yorkville
- El Catrin Destileria (18 Tank House Lane) – Mexican-inspired patio in the Distillery District
- Bellwoods Brewery (124 Ossington Ave) – A go-to for craft beer lovers
3. Farmers’ Markets Reopening
Spring signals the return of fresh, local produce at Toronto’s farmers’ markets. St. Lawrence Market, one of the oldest markets in Canada (dating back to 1803), is a year-round staple, but its fresh offerings expand as warmer months approach. Evergreen Brick Works, once an industrial site, is now a vibrant eco-conscious space where visitors can enjoy fresh food, artisan products, and community workshops.
Locations: St. Lawrence Market (93 Front St E) | Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Ave)
Season Starts: May
More Farmers’ Markets to Explore:
- Dufferin Grove Farmers’ Market – 875 Dufferin St
- Trinity Bellwoods Farmers’ Market – 1053 Dundas St W
4. Spring Festivals & Events
Spring is festival season in Toronto, with events that celebrate everything from pop culture to international film.
- Toronto Comicon (March 14–16, 2025, Metro Toronto Convention Centre). A must-visit for fans of comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming.
- Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival (April 24 – May 4, 2025, Various Locations). The largest documentary festival in North America, showcasing powerful storytelling from around the world.
- Doors Open Toronto (May 24–25, 2025, Various Locations). A rare chance to explore Toronto’s most historic and architecturally significant buildings for free.
5. Exploring the Don Valley Trails & Waterfront
Toronto is home to incredible outdoor trails, perfect for walking, biking, or running. The Don Valley Trails offer a natural escape in the heart of the city, while the Martin Goodman Trail stretches along the waterfront, providing uninterrupted lake views. Spring is also an excellent time to visit the Toronto Islands, where rental bikes, beaches, and picnic spots await.
Locations: Don Valley Trails, Martin Goodman Trail, Toronto Islands
Best Time to Visit: April – October
Must-Visit Nature Spots in Spring:
- Evergreen Brick Works Trails – A stunning mix of forest and urban ruins
- Rouge National Urban Park – Canada’s first national urban park, located in Toronto
- High Park’s Grenadier Pond – A peaceful retreat for birdwatchers
6. Toronto Blue Jays Season Opener
Baseball season means summer is just around the corner. The Toronto Blue Jays’ home opener at Rogers Centre is one of the most anticipated sporting events of spring. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love the atmosphere, cheering on the Jays with thousands of others is a true Toronto experience.
Location: Rogers Centre – 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J1
Home Opener: March 27, 2025 with the Baltimore Orioles at 3:07 pm ET
7. Ice Cream & Gelato Shops
Toronto’s favourite frozen treats return as temperatures rise. Ed’s Real Scoop, an east-end favourite, serves up house-made, small-batch ice cream and gelato. Over in Ossington, Bang Bang Ice Cream is known for its legendary ice cream sandwiches—expect long but worthwhile lineups. Okay, some of us enjoy ice cream at home year-round, but in Toronto, there’s something special about grabbing a cone and strolling through the city—a simple pleasure that truly marks the arrival of warmer months. Whether it’s a casual weekend treat or a post-dinner indulgence, ice cream season is coming!
Locations: Ed’s Real Scoop (2224 Queen St E, 920 Queen St E) | Bang Bang Ice Cream (93A Ossington Ave)
More Must-Try Ice Cream Spots:
- Bar Ape Gelato – 283 Rushton Rd
- Summer’s Ice Cream – 101 Yorkville Ave
8. Easter Celebrations & Spring Break
Spring break and Easter bring egg hunts, family outings, and seasonal treats to Toronto. Popular places like Toronto Zoo, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Royal Ontario Museum host special events during these holidays. It’s a great time for families to explore the city with interactive exhibits, scavenger hunts, and special performances.
Locations: Various family-friendly venues
March Break: March 10–14, 2025 | Easter Weekend: April 18–20, 2025 |
Spring is Just the Beginning
As Toronto transitions into spring, the city’s energy builds, setting the stage for an exciting summer. Whether you’re enjoying cherry blossoms, discovering hidden patios, or catching a Jays game, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season in my beautiful hometown. So, grab your camera, lace up your sneakers, and step into Toronto’s most vibrant time of year.
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet.
Safe and mindful travels!