Has spring finally sprung in Canada? Don’t miss out on these experiences this season
Spring has taken its time this year in many parts of Canada but our fingers are crossed that it’s finally here. (Or is this just another fool’s spring?)
Our country is one with four distinct seasons but summer and winter kind of get all the attention. Canadians famously wait all year long for the warm months from mid-June to September so we can jump off docks, swim in lakes, kayak and hike. In winter, it’s all about skiing, snowboarding, and skating.
But what about spring? If you ask us, this is an underrated time of year. Flowers are blooming and in some parts of the country, that’s quite the spectacle. The sun’s out but not in a humid or unbearable way. And the in-between weather is great for things like spring marathons, cultural festivals, or early-season rituals.
If you’re planning some adventures in Canada at this time of year, consider these:
Hitting the trails on Vancouver Island
Spring is a great time of year to explore Vancouver Island — one of Canada’s hiking and adventure capitals. You may be in Victoria, Tofino, or mountain biking in Cumberland (or all of the above!). In any case, whether you’re on foot or on a bike, now’s the time to hit the trails on the island! The weather is perfect, the summer crowds won’t have arrived yet, and around each bend, there’s yet another impeccable view.
Spotting cherry blossoms in Toronto’s High Park
If you’re in Toronto this spring, plan to check out the cherry blossoms in High Park. Typically, the park will be in full bloom around late April or early May and that’s when Torontonians flock to wander through the park stopping with friends for coffee or a picnic before leisurely strolling along the park’s pathways. If you’re up for a longer walk, some of these llead right down to the shore. High Park at this time of year is truly awe-striking: light pink flowers speckled all across the park in the middle of the city.
Having a picnic in Stanley Park
Stanley Park in Vancouver is without a doubt one of the most beautiful parks in Canada. You’ve got beaches, massive trees, thick forests, the iconic Stanley Park Sea Wall, and tons of picnic tables and green space to park it after an active morning. This spring, pack a picnic — be it a gourmet one of sourdough bread, olives and cheese, or just the basic PB&J — and just sit in peace for the rest of the afternoon. Give yourself the afternoon with nothing else planned to rush off to and just enjoy the mild weather in this Canadian beauty.
Running a race in the capital
For runners planning a visit — or even just a local getaway — in Ontario, the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is one of the biggest and best in Canada. This year’s event is happening on the fourth weekend in May with marathon, half-marathon, 5K and 10K options. Or, if you're nearby and not really into running, go to watch and just enjoy the bustle in the capital while adding a food or pub crawl to the itinerary afterwards.
Checking out Montreal’s Fringe Festival
Montreal’s culture scene is its own thing. It’s also one of the best places in Canada for the arts! Just walking around this French-Canadian city, the creative vibe is truly magnetic. Montreal Fringe Festival is one of the best ways to experience that culture in one of Canada’s most unique cities. The festival features shows, theatre, live performances, and music and will be happening in late May and well into June. Yes, cheap bites and beverages will be available of course.
Visiting Toronto for Hot Docs film festival
For those with an interest in film, Hot Docs is one of the best film festivals in Canada. As its name suggests, this is a documentary film fest with programming typically ranging from true crime, to biographical, to travel and nature options. This year’s running of Hot Docs is happening from April 23 until May 3. Expect to watch incredible documentaries from all around the world. This is one of the best ways to spend a chill afternoon… or a series of quiet days on a trip.
Heading to the cottage or cabin for the May long weekend
The holiday long weekend in May (Victoria Day) is one of the most important weekends of the year as it kicks off the summer season. Though still in spring, this is your chance to dive into the season and vow to make the most of every single minute of it. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Ontario, Alberta, B.C., or somewhere else. What you need is a few days at a place that embodies pure cottagecore vibes to spend time in nature and enjoy chats with friends. Our wilderness properties are great examples that pass the vibe check!
