What’s Happening in Toronto this April

April in Toronto is all about movement and growth. Think: groundbreaking art, heartpounding pro sports, outdoor adventure and family fun. From live performances and seasonal celebrations to food-forward outings and the first spring blooms, here’s what’s happening across the city right now.

Right now: April highlights

CHEER ON TORONTO FC

Soccer season is here! Cheer on Toronto’s Major League Soccer team at BMO Field as they take on rivals Colorado, Cincinnati, Austin, Philadelphia and Atlanta this month.

EXPLORE BOLD, SOCIALLY ENGAGED ART

Three must-sees: Rebirth: The Quiet Becoming, a sprawling outdoor installation at Fort York; PRESERVATION, a multidisciplinary exhibit by renowned Palestinian artists; and Building Black AMORPHIA: Spiritual Starships, an amorphous futuristic LEGO® tapestry.

EXPERIENCE INDIGENOUS THEATRE

Playwright Yolanda Bonnell’s White Girls in Moccasins is a hilarious and poignant reclamation story that world-hops between dreams, memories, and a surreal game show. Native Earth Performing Arts hosts the play’s much-anticipated return run.

GET HOPPING ON EASTER WEEKEND

The Beneva Spring Run-Off has race distances for all ages and abilities in High Park, while the 60th Annual Beaches Lions Club Easter Parade includes a scavenger hunt that takes teams on a wild egg chase across the Beaches.

DISCOVER LOCAL FLAVOURS

Sip, savour and shop T.O. Food & Drink Fest, a three-day celebration of good taste. While you’re here, explore Toronto’s top food halls and fill your belly on a guided foodie tour.

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY OUTSIDE

Feast your senses in Toronto’s parks! Explore forested trails at Rouge National Urban Park, take the kids to High Park and peep cherry blossoms at Trinity Bellwoods Park. Don’t miss Colonel Samuel Smith and Biidaasige Park for spring birding along the waterfront.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SAKURA

Toronto’s ephemeral cherry blossoms typically burst into bloom in late April or early May. Experience the magic in Toronto’s public parks. But be ready to move: the show lasts days, not weeks!

Plan your April

Make the most of your Toronto visit with these savvy-traveller tips.

Take advantage of shoulder season.
This is a great month to explore like a local, with fewer crowds vying for restaurant reservations and hot-ticket shows. You’ll experience a more relaxed vibe at top attractions like the Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, and CN Tower, too. April is all about slow jaunts and chill vibes!

Pack for the weather.
April brings wild-card weather with sun, clouds, rain and even snow… potentially all in one weekend. Check the weather forecast and pack appropriately. Early April must-haves include a parka, toque, and waterproof boots, while later in the month, a raincoat, warm layers, and comfortable footwear will do (Pack an umbrella!). Be prepared so you can explore in comfort.

Plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.
Warm days are ideal for exploring outdoors—whether that’s strolling Graffiti Alley or exploring the waterfront trail on a share-bike—while chilly nights are meant for live music, comedy shows, dining, pro sports and other indoor fun.

Bundle your activities.
Spend less time in transit and more time exploring by planning back-to-back experiences in the same or adjacent neighbourhoods.

Take public transportation.
Toronto boasts excellent public transit—plus pedestrian-friendly communities, taxis, ride- and bike-shares, and the underground PATH system. Leave your car at the hotel to skip traffic and parking fees.