When to go Toronto

Even in the cold winter, Toronto's blue skies make city seem alive and coming in from a snowstorm, the restaurants, bars and shops feel cosy. However the city is more fun in the other three seasons: in spring the midtown streets suddenly become forests; in summer the patio bars and waterfront come alive; in autumn the leaves change colour and the air is clean and crisp.

Climate

Toronto has one of the mildest climates in the country, thanks to the moderating effects of Lake Ontario and a southern latitude of 44º north, on par with Florence, Italy. Winter is not as bad as the rest of Canada: the city gets less snow than it used to, but visitors should bring hats and gloves as the mercury often dips below 0°C. Toronto gets plenty of sunshine year-round. Summers are hot and humid, punctuated by thunderstorms.

Festivals & events

Because the summer is short, locals make the most of it, filling the calendar with large- and small-scale events from Victoria Day (late May) through Labour Day (September). The biggies of the summer include Pride in late June and Caribana in late July, when the downtown core comes alive. But the rest of the year isn't neglected: autumn and winter play host to many indoor pursuits.

See all festivals & events in Toronto

Public holidays

New Year's Day 1 Jan (if a Sun, then holiday is the following Mon)
Good Friday Mar/Apr
Easter Monday Mar/Apr
Victoria Day 24 May (if a Mon, otherwise the preceding Mon)
Canada Day 1 July
Simcoe Day 1st Mon Aug
Labour Day 1st Mon Sept
Thanksgiving 2nd Mon Oct
Christmas 25 Dec
Boxing Day 26 Dec

While government offices and most banks close on Easter Monday (Mar/Apr) and Remembrance Day (11 Nov), the majority of businesses remain open.

Our listings

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this guide, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors it may contain. Before you go out of your way, we strongly advise you to phone ahead and check the particulars.

More travel information

Getting to Toronto
Getting around Toronto
Toronto fast facts A-Z