Cheap and free things to do on Victoria Day weekend

[Simon Carr/Flickr]

It may be unofficial—and it’s certainly premature—but the May 2-4 weekend is Canada’s favourite summer kick-off celebration. Soak in those summertime vibes with a free or affordable event, complete with food, fun and good company, no matter where you are this weekend.

[John Vetterli/Flickr]

Toronto

Ashbridges Park will have shoot off over 2,000 fireworks at dusk on Victoria Day, free to attend (but as with all fireworks shows on the list, get there early as the best viewing points fill up fast).

If you’re willing to pay a little extra for a party, head to Wasaga Beach. Thousands are expected to hit the sand for Electric Elements, a trendy music festival featuring the best DJs from both close to home and across the globe.

[Denise M/Flickr]

Vancouver

Among Western Canada’s most popular family events, the four-day Cloverdale Rodeo and County Fair is a blast to the past, sure to trigger memories of your favourite childhood adventures at the local fair. A full-out, old-fashioned rodeo, plus carnival rides and games, countless exhibits and live entertainment make this a fun pick, for only $10 at the gate. The fair is held in Surrey, just minutes outside Vancouver city limits.

[Nicole Bratt/Flickr]

Halifax

Old or young, there’s always something to discover at Halifax’s Museum of Natural History. This weekend, the museum is offering free admission, giving you more incentive than ever to take advantage of this local gem.

[John Talbot/Flickr]

Ottawa

It’s more than flowers in the nation’s capital. Take in the free activities at Ottawa’s month-long Tulip Festival. Closing weekend is promising to be a memorable one, with live music, international art, food, wine and beer. Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park is your destination to join the fun this weekend.

[Dano/Flickr]

Winnipeg

After a winter in Winnipeg, nothing beats a warm evening outdoors, a classic barbecue and a dazzling fireworks show. The Victoria Long Weekend Carnival and BBQ is May 20-23 at the Heritage Village Community Club. Treat the kids to affordable wristbands and ride the rides all day, every day this weekend. Fireworks are Saturday at dusk.

[Festival Accès Asie/Facebook]

Montreal

Festival season is permanently in full swing in Montreal. Over the May 2-4 weekend, don’t miss the 21st Festival Accès Asie, which runs through May 29. Experience Asian arts, culture and history through all variety of performances, from theatre to dance, film to poetry, comedy to culinary art. Free or low-cost events are happening all throughout town, each day bringing its own lineup of events.

[Bill Burris/Flickr]

Edmonton

Fort Edmonton Park has been long awaiting the weekend, as May 2-4 marks the opening of a new season. If you’re in the Edmonton area, this attraction offers a great mix of local history and simple fun, with plenty to do and see.

[Stewart Black/Flickr]

St. John’s

Five-time Grammy award winner James Taylor comes to the Mile One Centre this weekend, but if you’re looking for a cheap date, that probably won’t be your first pick. Music lovers with light pocketbooks can instead celebrate World Fiddle Day on Saturday. The day includes a free afternoon fiddle session for all string enthusiasts at the Arts and Culture Centre.