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Events happening in Toronto this weekend: May 16-19

People viewing art exhibit at Toronto gallery with crowd taking photos and enjoying modern artwork, vibrant lighting and lively atmosphere at NOW Toronto event.
Toronto, the Victoria Day long weekend is here, and there are lots of different ways to unwind(Courtesy: Bloom Immersive/Eventbrite, 2K Party/Instagram)

Toronto, the Victoria Day long weekend is here, and there are lots of different ways to unwind and enjoy yourself over the next few days.

From a 2000s-themed Hip-Hop and R&B party to a Caribbean board game brunch and free fireworks at Ashbridges Bay, here are some events happening in Toronto this weekend. 

Friday, May 16

2K Party – Hip Hop and R&B Anthems of The Early 2000s

Miss the music of the 2000s? The 2K Party is back with a dance promising all the nostalgia. 

The event is taking over Nest, located at 423 College St., from 10 p.m. until 2:30 a.m.

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Attendees can look forward to enjoying Hip-Hop, R&B and dancehall anthems from the early 2000s, taking guests on a blast to the past. 


Find tickets here.

After Dark Art Gallery + Drinks: An Augmented Reality Experience

Enjoy a unique art gallery event that utilizes AI to create an augmented reality experience. 

Held at the Super Wonder Gallery located by Dufferin Station, the event combines spatial painting, creative technology, and art that guests can interact with through their smartphones while enjoying refreshments and networking with creatives. 

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The event is 19+, and attendees can look forward to an event that will teach them about the intersection between art, technology, and artificial intelligence. 

Find out more and find tickets here.

Coco Jones: Why Not More? Tour

American singer-songwriter Coco Jones is taking over HISTORY for the Toronto stop of her Why Not More? Tour on Friday night.

The tour is promoting her debut album, Why Not More? which was released last month. 

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The concert promises good vibes and great music. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.

Tickets are available for purchase here

Saturday, May 17

Pottery Workshop

Get your creative juices flowing with a pottery workshop at The Danforth Art Studio.

Receive step-by-step guidance from instructors who will lead you through the creation of stunning hand-built pottery projects.

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The classes are beginner-friendly, and each person can create up to two bowls.

Find out more about the event here, and find tickets for Saturday’s workshop and future workshops here

Reggae VS Soca On The Lake Boat Cruise

The Reggae VS Soca boat cruise is returning to Toronto for its 10th anniversary, promising a night of dancing and good vibes on the lake. 

Artist Armanii is performing at the 19+ event, which features licensed bars and spectacular views of the city skyline. 

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Boarding is at 176 Cherry Street in Toronto, ON and starts at 9 p.m., with the ship setting sail at 9:30 p.m. and returning to shore at 2:30 a.m.

The dress code is “island sexy,” but guests are encouraged to dress for the weather.

Find tickets here.

Sunday, May 18

Caribbean Board Games & Brunch 2025 

Enjoy an afternoon of board games and brunch with a Caribbean theme at Ralph Thornton Hall on Sunday. 

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The rundown includes Caribbean-style Jeopardy, where participants will be quizzed on their knowledge of the islands, a chef-led demo on creating sweet potato buns, an activity where players will be tasked with giving directions Caribbean-style, and more. 

Upon registering for the event, attendees will automatically be entered in various raffles for different prizes

The event runs from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Ralph Thornton Community Centre, located at 765 Queen St. E. 

Tickets are available here.

Pasta Traditions from the North Cooking Class

Learn how to make pasta like a true Northern Italian at a hands-on class at Eataly Yorkville

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First, a trained chef will prepare a signature dish for students to taste-test. Then, they will be led through the steps to create their own delicious pasta creation. 

Attendees can expect to learn more about the traditions and culture associated with pasta in northern Italy, while they are taught to create pastas like ravioli, agnolotti del plin and tortellini.

Classes are appropriate for those eight and older, but children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult with a ticket to the event. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Find out more and register here.

Monday, May 19

Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park 

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Enjoy a beautiful display of fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park.

Organized by the City of Toronto, the show begins at 10 p.m. on Monday. 

The park, located on Lake Shore Blvd. E. at the foot of Coxwell Ave., is accessible by public transit and attendees are encouraged to take transit to the park and leave their cars at home. Find out more about the TTC’s long weekend schedule here

The city is asking residents to leave pets at home, as the sounds and flashes of flight can be overwhelming for animals. 

And if you’re planning to put on your own fireworks show, you can find rules and regulations here

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Victoria Day Royal Race

Calling all runners! Lace up your running shoes and embark on a scenic run along the lakeshore in High Park. The route begins at Spring Rd and Colborne Lodge Dr., goes left onto West Rd. through some of the trails to the south of the park, before looping through a greenhouse and circling back to Spring Rd. 

Runners can participate in a five or two-kilometre run. The 5 KM starts at 10 a.m. and the 2 KM starts at 10:30 a.m., while an award ceremony is slated for 11:00 a.m.

For safety reasons, no dogs or strollers are allowed to take part in the races.

Find out more and register here.

For a list of events, check out our events calendar, powered by Now Playing Toronto. 

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To list your event, click here.

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