GTA Fireworks Guide: Celebrating Victoria Day Across the Region
The Victoria Day long weekend has arrived, bringing a variety of fireworks displays and celebrations to Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). A Canadian federal holiday, Victoria Day takes place on the third Monday of May to celebrate the birthday of the late Queen Victoria.
While many residents are looking forward to lighting up the sky, the availability of official displays and the legality of private fireworks vary significantly by municipality.
Toronto
The city’s official celebration will be held at Ashbridges Bay Park, located near Coxwell Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard East. The fireworks display is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. On Monday, May 22.
Organizers have advised attendees to arrive early to secure a viewing spot, noting that the show will conclude with a large finale. Because the park is accessible via the TTC, officials are asking residents to leave their vehicles at home and utilize public transit.
Vaughan
Residents in Vaughan have two primary options for fireworks this weekend:
- Vaughan Ribfest 2026: Running from Friday through Monday, this event features live music, family activities and barbecue food. A fireworks display is scheduled for Sunday at approximately 10 p.m.
- Canada’s Wonderland: The park will host a 30-minute fireworks show near the front of Wonder Mountain on Sunday, starting around 10 p.m.
Milton
At Woodbine Mohawk Park, the Fireworks Family Night will feature an LED light show followed by a fireworks display to mark the conclusion of the final standardbred horse race. Doors open at 5 p.m., and entry to the event is free.
Municipal Regulations and Private Use
For residents in cities without official displays, the rules regarding private fireworks vary:
Mississauga: While there are no official city displays, fireworks are permitted on private property on Monday, May 18, between 6 p.m. And 10 p.m. However, the City of Mississauga has clarified that roman candle fireworks are no longer permitted and the use of fireworks in parks is illegal.
Pickering: No official displays are planned, but residents may set off fireworks on their own private property from sunset until 11 p.m.
Brampton: A strict fireworks ban remains in effect throughout the long weekend, and there are no official displays. The possession, sale, or use of fireworks may result in fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, with rare cases reaching up to $100,000. Only handheld sparklers are permitted.
Markham: The city has no plans for official fireworks. Residents may instead travel north to the Town of Stouffville to attend the annual Victoria Day Fireworks at Memorial Park.
Looking Ahead
Given the varied regulations across the GTA, residents may face different legal consequences depending on where they choose to celebrate. Those in Brampton will likely need to limit their celebrations to sparklers to avoid significant fines, while those in Toronto may experience heavy traffic near Ashbridges Bay Park if public transit recommendations are not followed.