Are you looking for exciting plans this May? Well the Great White North or Canada is one of the best places to travel during Ramadan, and in the month of May with so many amazing May Events in Canada happening all across the country!
From the vibrant and colourful cultural festivals to music extravaganzas, there is something for every traveller to enjoy. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the country after Ramadan the diverse May events in Canada promise unforgettable experiences.
So get ready to explore these colourful celebrations and indulge in delicious food (including halal options), and make everlasting memories. In this detailed blog we will give you an inside scope on the can’t-miss May Events in Canada that will make your month truly extraordinary!
List of the Best Events in Canada in May
Alzate Canada Tour 2024
Colombian singer-songwriter Jorge Andrés Alzate Ríos brings his beloved music to Canada. Get ready to be swept away by his passionate piano melodies and vocals.
Dates: May 3 – May 4
Location: Oasis Convention Centre, Mississauga, Ontario
Price: $70.56 to $193.03
Sew Hungry
A street food lover’s paradise! Indulge in delectable dishes from a variety of food trucks and vendors at this lively outdoor festival. Don’t miss the live music and entertainment.
Date: May 11
Location: Ottawa Street North, Hamilton, Ontario
Price: Free
Toronto Comic Arts Festival
Comics fans, this is your mecca! Meet famous artists and writers, attend panels/workshops, and discover a wide array of comics from Canada and abroad. An unmissable event for graphic novel enthusiasts.
Dates: May 11 – May 12
Location: Various venues in Toronto, Ontario
Price: Free
Caribana
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the Caribbean at this 3-day festival. Feast your senses on the music, dance, food, and dazzling costumes of the massive parade.
Dates: May 10 – May 12
Location: Exhibition Place, Toronto, Ontario
Price: Start at $200 per person
Niagara Children's Festival
Spark your little one’s creativity at this week-long festival featuring live kids’ theatre, performances, and engaging arts activities. A whimsical world for young minds!
Dates: May 11, 18 and 19
Location: Various locations in Niagara Falls, Ontario
Price: Free –$50 tickets
Paprika Festival
Discover the talents of young, emerging artists at this free multidisciplinary festival. Experience cutting-edge theatre, dance, music, and multimedia performances that will dazzle you.
Dates: May 13 – May 19
Location: Aki Studio, Toronto, Ontario
Price: Free
St. John's International Comedy Festival
Prepare to laugh out loud! Top comedians from near and far take the stage at this hilarious week-long festival of stand-up comedy shows.
Dates: May 14 – May 19
Location: Various venues in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Price: $22.00 plus tax
Canadian Tulip Festival
A vibrant celebration welcoming spring’s arrival, with over a million tulips blooming across Ottawa and Gatineau. Admire stunning flower shows, lively parades, music performances and cultural events in Canada in May month.
Dates: May 15 – May 21
Location: Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec
Price: Free
Ottawa International Writers Festival
Book lovers, clear your calendars! This 5-day literary extravaganza features renowned authors from around the globe. Enjoy readings, interviews, panel discussions and more.
Dates: May 15 – May 19
Location: Multiple venues in Ottawa, Ontario
Price: $20 -$25
Calgary International Beer Festival
Calling all beer aficionados! Sample over 1,000 brews from around the globe at this 4-day celebration of craft beer, featuring live music and tasty food vendors.
Dates: May 16 – May 19
Location: BMO Centre, Calgary, Alberta
Price: Start at $19.99 CAD
Victoria Day SpeedFest
A petrolhead’s dream – watch thrilling NASCAR, sports car and touring car races over an action-packed 3 days. The weekend culminates with an incredible fireworks display lighting up the sky.
Dates: May 17 – May 19
Location: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario
Price: $40 and up
Manito Ahbee Festival
Immerse yourself in Indigenous arts, culture, music and stories at this vibrant 4-day festival. Experience powerful performances, browse artisan markets and taste delicious Indigenous cuisine.
Dates: May 17 – May 20
Location: Red River Exhibition Park, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Price: Single day pass $16.75
2024 Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair
This four-day western extravaganza features professional rodeo competitions, an exciting midway, agricultural exhibits, and fabulous live music. The fair and the rodeo definitely promise fun for the whole family and are one of the fun places to visit in Canada.
Dates: May 17 – May 20
Location: Cloverdale Fairgrounds, Surrey, British Columbia
Price: $10, $12, or $15, depending on when you buy tickets
Winnipeg Folk Festival
Experience the very best of folk music over this 3-day outdoor festival. Enjoy performances by acclaimed artists from around the world, plus workshops, artisan crafts and delicious food.
Dates: May 17 – May 19
Location: Birds Hill Provincial Park, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Price: $90 – $310
Shaker Run for Epilepsy
Lace up and join this charitable 5K or 10K run/walk through the stunning Stanley Park to raise funds and awareness for epilepsy research and education.
Date: May 19
Location: Stanley Park, Vancouver, British Columbia
Price: $25.00
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival
Watch sleek dragon boats race across the Inner Harbour in this exciting 3-day festival. Also featuring cultural performances, artisan markets and mouthwatering food vendors.
Dates: May 24 – 26
Location: Inner Harbour, Victoria, British Columbia
Price: Free to watch
Vancouver International Children's Festival
Raise a glass to Canada’s brewing talents! Sample over 250 Canadian craft beers along with live music and tasty food over this 3-day beer-tastic event.
Dates: May 24 – 26
Location: MaRS Discovery District, Toronto, Ontario
Price: Starts at $76.42
The Great Canadian Beer Festival
Raise a glass to Canada’s brewing talents! Sample over 250 Canadian craft beers along with live music and tasty food over this 3-day beer-tastic event.
These are some of the fun and exciting events to attend if you visit Canada in May. You can also check April events in Canada.
Dates: May 24 – 26
Location: MaRS Discovery District, Toronto, Ontario
Price: Starts at $76.42
Things to be Aware of if You Are Visiting Canada in May
Unpredictable Weather
The month of May in Canada can be a mixed bag when it comes to weather. So before travelling be prepared for everything from warm, sunny days to chilly temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers, especially in the Northern region.
Layered Clothing
Make sure to pack layers of clothing to accommodate the fluctuating temperature. We recommend that you carry a warm jacket, sweaters, and waterproof shoes even if the forecast looks promising.
Allergy Season
May is a peak allergy season in most parts of the world. So if you suffer from allergies like pollen allergy be prepared with all the necessary medication and take precautions when you are spending time outside.
Mud and Melting Snow
In some parts of Canada you may encounter muddy conditions and melting snow, especially in the mountains and rural areas. So please carry appropriate trekking and waterproof shoes.
Crowded Parks and Attractions
As the weather condition improves, the popular outdoor attractions and nature parks will become more crowded with local people looking to enjoy the warmer temperature. So plan accordingly and visit during off-peak hours.
Road Conditions
Depending on the region many roads may still be affected by the winter weather. So check for advisories and drive cautiously.
Mosquitoes and Bugs
Make sure you are prepared for emergencies like mosquitoes and other bugs. So pack insect repellent and protective clothing.
Wildlife Encounters
Be very careful of your surroundings during this time of spring as during this time most animals come out of their hibernation.
Conclusion
May events in Canada showcase the national diversity and festive spirit of the country. Whether you are attending a cultural festival or a musical festival or trying out an adventure sport you will be creating long lasting memories in this country.