Toronto’s Best Spring & Early Summer Festivals | Novotel Toronto Centre
Hockey Hall of Fame, Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
As Toronto emerges from winter, the city quickly comes alive with festivals celebrating film, music, food, art, and community. Spring and early summer are some of the most exciting times to visit, with unique events happening across neighbourhoods and venues throughout the city.
If you’re planning a trip to Toronto, these festivals offer the perfect way to experience the local culture while enjoying warmer days and lively crowds. Here are some of the top festivals worth adding to your calendar.
Spring Equinox Festival at STACKT Market
Toronto welcomes the start of spring with a weeklong celebration at STACKT Market, one of the city’s most creative community hubs. The Spring Equinox Festival brings together live music, art installations, wellness activities, and pop-up experiences designed to celebrate the change of seasons.
Visitors can explore local vendors, enjoy outdoor programming, and take part in activities that highlight renewal and creativity as the city transitions into spring.
When: March 17 – March 22, 2026
Time: Noon – 10:00 p.m.
Where: STACKT Market — 28 Bathurst St., Toronto
Cost: Free admission
Toronto Urban Vendors Fest
If you love discovering local makers and street food, the Toronto Urban Vendors Fest is a great way to experience Toronto’s creative community. Held at the popular Trinity Bellwoods Park, this three-day event brings together artisans, food vendors, and small businesses from across the city.
Expect everything from handcrafted goods and unique art pieces to a variety of street food options that showcase Toronto’s diverse culinary scene. It’s also a great opportunity to explore one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhood parks.
When: March 27 – March 29, 2026
Time:
• Friday: 9:00 a.m. – Evening
• Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Trinity Bellwoods Park — 790 Queen St. W., Toronto
Cost: Free admission
Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival
Film lovers won’t want to miss the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, North America’s largest documentary film festival. Each year, the event showcases powerful stories from Canadian and international filmmakers, offering audiences the chance to see thought-provoking documentaries that explore culture, politics, science, and human experiences.
Screenings, special events, and filmmaker Q&As create a dynamic atmosphere that attracts film enthusiasts from around the world.
When: April 23 – May 3, 2026
Time: Schedule to be announced
Where: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema — 506 Bloor St. W., Toronto
Cost: Tickets starting around $22
Departure Festival and Conference
Music takes over the city during the Departure Festival + Conference, a multi-day event celebrating artists and creators from Canada and around the world. Formerly known as Canadian Music Week, this festival continues its tradition of spotlighting emerging and established talent across multiple genres.
Throughout the week, hundreds of bands perform at venues across Toronto, creating an exciting atmosphere for music fans eager to discover new artists.
When: May 4 – May 10, 2026
Where: Multiple venues across Toronto
Cost: Passes starting at approximately $60
Wine Fest Toronto
Raise a glass and celebrate the arrival of warmer weather at Wine Fest Toronto, a popular event dedicated to wine lovers and curious newcomers alike. The festival features tastings from a variety of local and international wineries, giving guests the chance to explore different styles and regions.
In addition to wine sampling, visitors can enjoy gourmet food pairings, live music, and the opportunity to connect with winemakers and industry experts. It’s a relaxed and social way to spend a spring weekend in the city.
Dates and times: To be announced
Location: Toronto
Cost: Ticketed event
Experience Toronto Festival Season
From food markets and outdoor celebrations to music and film festivals, spring is one of the most exciting times to explore Toronto. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, these events offer a great way to experience the city’s creativity and energy.
Located in the heart of downtown, Novotel Toronto Centre places you close to many of Toronto’s top attractions, restaurants, and festival venues.
Book your accommodation at Novotel Toronto Centre and experience Toronto’s vibrant festival season for yourself.