Kaizen Real Estate Team · Markham, Ontario Michael John Lau & Neeraj Moolchandani · REALTORS®
Victoria Day Long Weekend · May 15–18, 2026
Things to Do This
Victoria Day Weekend
in Markham & Nearby
Parks reopen, patios fill up, fireworks light up the sky, and Markham has more to offer this long weekend than ever. Your complete guide.
Fri May 15
Sat May 16
Sun May 17
Mon May 18 — Holiday
Friday
15
Stouffville Fireworks 9:30pm
Patios open
Saturday
16
Int'l Museum Day 11am–5pm
Farmers' Market 9am–1pm
Candlelight Concert 6:30pm
Sunday
17
Milne Dam Opens
Wonderland Fireworks 10pm
Monday · Holiday
18
Victoria Day
Nobleton Fair + Fireworks
⚠ Most services closed
Victoria Day Fireworks Near Markham
🎆 Fireworks Confirmed for 2026
Stouffville Victoria Day Fireworks
Friday, May 15 · Event 8:00 PM · Fireworks 9:30 PM
Memorial Park, 2 Park Drive, Whitchurch-Stouffville. ~15 min from Cornell. 2,000 fireworks in a 13-minute show with food trucks, live music & face painting.
FREE ADMISSIONCanada's Wonderland Fireworks
Sunday, May 17 · 10:00 PM over Wonder Mountain
1 Canada's Wonderland Drive, Vaughan (~25 min). Included with park admission. 200+ rides and attractions before the show. Book in advance, one of the busiest weekends of the year.
💡 Kaizen Team Tip: Both fireworks events are weather-dependent. Check the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville's Facebook page on the afternoon of May 15 before heading out. Arrive at Memorial Park before 8 PM to secure parking, lots fill significantly by 9 PM.
New Addition · Saturday, May 16
Saturday Events in Markham
The long weekend's first full Saturday has several standout events right in the city.
01
Saturday May 16 FREE · Family-Friendly 11 AM – 5 PM
🐝 International Museum Day — Markham Museum
9350 Markham Road, Markham · Ticket required (free for members)
Markham Museum hosts its annual International Museum Day celebration with the theme "Bees, Bugs & Pollinators." Highlights include a hands-on What's the Buzz! workshop with beekeeping partner Alvéole from 2–3 PM, where a dedicated beekeeper showcases tools and answers your questions. Activities throughout the day: build your own wild bee home, explore the Honey House, GeoTour: Markham Museum on the Move, mini putt, Transportation Hall Activity Center, the Everyday Superheroes Exhibition, Markham Community Makers, and A Picture of Markham: The Art of Pat Wheeler. The event proceeds rain, shine, or snow, dress appropriately for outdoor portions. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free parking on-site.
02
Saturday May 16 FREE · Outdoors 9 AM – 1 PM
🌿 Main Street Markham Farmers' Market
102 Main St. N (Guardian Pharmacy lot) & Robinson St., Markham Village
The Markham Farmers' Market runs every Saturday from May 9 through October 10, and this Victoria Day weekend edition is one of the first truly summery markets of the year. Browse 32+ vendors offering farm-fresh produce, baked goods, deli meats, cheeses, honey, preserves, and artisan goods from local makers. The market is set in the Markham Village heritage area, making it a natural pairing with a walk up Main Street Markham. Arrive early for the best selection; popular vendors sell out by 11 AM.
03
Saturday May 16 Tickets Required · From ~$34 6:30 PM & 8:45 PM shows
🕯️ Candlelight Concert — Cathedral of the Transfiguration
10350 Victoria Square Blvd., Markham · Via Fever/feverup.com
Two separate Candlelight concerts are on offer at Markham's stunning Cathedral of the Transfiguration this Saturday evening. The early show (6:30 PM) features The Best of Hans Zimmer, while the later show (8:45 PM) presents Ed Sheeran Meets Coldplay, both performed live by a string quartet under the gentle glow of hundreds of candles. Each show runs for 60 minutes; doors open 45 minutes before the start. Recommended for ages 8+; under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The cathedral is an architectural landmark in Markham, and the setting alone makes it a remarkable long weekend outing. Book tickets in advance at feverup.com — this event consistently sells out.
New Addition · Sunday, May 17
Sunday Events in Markham
Sunday is the big outdoor day of the weekend — with Markham's largest park officially opening for 2026.
01
Sunday May 17 — Season Opening Fee on weekends
🌿 Milne Dam Conservation Park — 2026 Season Opening
8251 McCowan Rd, Markham · Opens May 17 · Debit/credit only, no cash
Markham's largest park, 305 acres along the Rouge River, officially opens for the 2026 season on Sunday, May 17. The 2.3-km trail network winds through forest, across bridges, and along the river. Picnic areas are reservable for groups. Prime for wildlife spotting (hawks, falcons, migratory birds), fishing with an MNR licence, and birding. Admission fees apply on weekends and statutory holidays; weekday visits are free. Children 15 and under are always free. Debit and credit only at the gate, no cash accepted.
02
Sunday May 17 · Fireworks 10 PM ~25 min from Markham
🎢 Canada's Wonderland — Victoria Day Weekend
1 Canada's Wonderland Drive, Vaughan · Fireworks included with park admission
Canada's largest theme park is the big-spectacle option just west of Markham. With 200+ rides and attractions, the park is a full-day destination. Cap off Sunday evening with the fireworks display over Wonder Mountain at 10 PM. Book tickets online in advance, Victoria Day weekend is one of the highest-attendance weekends of the year at Wonderland, and walk-up queues can be significant.
All Weekend Long · In Markham
Best Things to Do in Markham All Weekend
These are open and available across Friday through Monday.
01
Free · All WeekendUnionville
🏛️ Stroll Historic Main Street Unionville
Main Street Unionville · Businesses open long weekend hours
One of Ontario's most photographed heritage streetscapes, 19th-century buildings, boutiques, cafés, art galleries, and the recently restored street following the 2025–2026 Main Street Restoration project. Patios open for the unofficial start of summer. Best visited Saturday or Sunday morning before afternoon crowds. Street parking fills quickly, use the Carlton Road or Toogood Pond lots and walk in.
02
Free · ScenicUnionville
🦆 Toogood Pond Park Trail
Kennedy Road & Highway 7 area · Accessible trails
Connected to Main Street Unionville, Toogood Pond features two ponds, wooded trails, a soccer field, and a playground. The Toogood–Milne Dam trail link lets you walk all the way to Milne Conservation Park and back. Popular with families, joggers, and dog walkers. Hawks and falcons are frequently spotted by birders.
03
Free AdmissionUnionville
🖼️ Varley Art Gallery of Markham
216 Main Street, Unionville · Check gallery hours before visiting
Markham's premier public art gallery, dedicated to Group of Seven painter Frederick Horsman Varley, who lived and worked in Unionville. Features rotating exhibitions of Canadian art alongside Varley's iconic works. A rewarding stop on any Unionville walk — particularly over the long weekend when the surrounding streetscape is at its most lively.
04
Patios & DiningAll Weekend
☀️ Patio Season Opens — Markham's Best Restaurants
Unionville Main Street · Markham Village
Victoria Day weekend is the traditional patio-opening weekend across Ontario, and Markham's independent restaurant community, especially along Main Street Unionville and Markham Village — comes alive. Reservations are strongly recommended for Saturday and Sunday evenings at popular spots. Call ahead or use an online reservation platform.
05
Free · TrailsAll Weekend
🚴 Ride or Walk Markham's 150+ km of Trails
markham.ca for trail maps · Free entry
Markham's recreational trail network is one of the most extensive in the GTA. The Markham Rouge Valley Trail connects Toogood Pond through Milne Dam and into Rouge National Urban Park. Victoria Day weekend is one of the best times to explore by bike or on foot before summer crowds arrive. Grab a trail map at markham.ca before heading out.
Statutory Holiday · Monday, May 18
Victoria Day Monday Activities
Nobleton Victoria Day Fair
King Township · ~35 min from Markham
A beloved York Region community celebration with a fair, live entertainment, midway rides, and fireworks at dusk on May 18. A great small-town long weekend atmosphere.
Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
Bowmanville · ~60 min from Markham
Victoria Day SpeedFest with NASCAR Pinty's Series, fireworks on May 16 at dusk, a Fun Zone for kids, and food and vendor vendors throughout the weekend.
Pingle's Tulip Days
Hampton, Durham Region · ~45 min
Fields of colourful tulips perfect for walking and photos. A popular family and couples destination over the long weekend. Check their website for 2026 hours and admission.
Rouge National Urban Park
Markham / Scarborough border · Free
Canada's first urban national park, spanning Markham's eastern boundary. Victoria Day weekend marks peak season with migratory birds, spring wildflowers, and lush trails. Free entry through Parks Canada.
Victoria Day Monday, May 18 · Statutory Holiday
⚠️ What's Closed This Long Weekend
Most government offices and public services close on Victoria Day Monday (May 18). Some services have reduced hours on Saturday and Sunday as well. Always call ahead or check online before visiting.
📚 Markham Public Library
All branches closed on Victoria Day Monday, May 18, in observance of the statutory holiday.
May 15–17: Regular hours · May 18: CLOSED
🏛️ Markham City Hall
City Hall and all municipal administrative offices are closed on Victoria Day Monday.
May 18: CLOSED · Reopens Tue May 19
🏢 Service Ontario
Service Ontario locations are closed on Victoria Day as a provincial statutory holiday. Online services remain available.
May 18: CLOSED
🏦 Major Bank Branches
Most major Canadian bank branches (TD, RBC, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC) close for Victoria Day. ATMs and online banking remain fully available.
May 18: Most branches CLOSED
📬 Canada Post
Mail delivery and collection services will not operate on Victoria Day Monday. Regular service resumes Tuesday, May 19.
May 18: No mail delivery
⚖️ Provincial Courts
Ontario provincial courts are closed on Victoria Day as a statutory holiday. No court proceedings on May 18.
May 18: CLOSED
🏫 Schools
All York Region elementary and secondary schools are closed for the full long weekend, including Victoria Day Monday.
May 15–18: CLOSED
🏢 Service Canada / Passport
Service Canada centres and passport offices are closed on statutory holidays. Plan any urgent passport or document needs before the long weekend.
May 18: CLOSED
☕ Coffee Chains
Starbucks and Tim Hortons locations are generally open on Victoria Day, but with reduced or modified hours. Check your specific location before visiting.
May 18: Modified hours likely
🛒 Grocery Stores & Malls
CF Markville and most grocery stores typically operate on reduced holiday hours on Victoria Day Monday. Confirm hours with individual stores.
May 18: Reduced hours — call ahead
Note: Milne Dam Conservation Park charges admission fees on weekends and on statutory holidays (May 18). Weekday visits (Mon–Fri excluding holidays) are free. The park is open throughout the long weekend — admission fees apply Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Debit and credit only at the gate.
Local Knowledge
Practical Tips from Markham Locals
Before You Head Out This Weekend
- Saturday Farmers' Market: The Main Street Markham Farmers' Market runs 9 AM–1 PM on May 16. Popular vendors sell out by 11 AM — arrive early for the best selection at the Guardian Pharmacy lot on 102 Main St. N.
- Museum Day tickets: International Museum Day at Markham Museum on May 16 requires a ticket for entry — museum memberships are accepted, but ASTC, Attractions Ontario, ROAM memberships, and Free Admission Passes are not. Register in advance at the Markham Museum website.
- Candlelight Concert: Doors open 45 minutes before the show at the Cathedral of the Transfiguration. No entry once it starts. Book online through Fever — both the 6:30 PM and 8:45 PM Saturday shows have been selling out weeks in advance.
- Stouffville fireworks parking: Arrive before 8 PM if you want a relaxed parking experience. Lots at the Leisure Centre and across from Latcham Hall near Memorial Park fill significantly by 9 PM.
- Traffic on May 18 (Monday): The 407 and Highway 7 see significant outbound traffic on Victoria Day Monday afternoon. Plan to return before 2 PM or after 7 PM to avoid the heaviest volume.
- Milne Dam admission: Fees apply Saturday May 16, Sunday May 17, and the statutory holiday Monday May 18. Bring a debit or credit card — no cash accepted. Children 15 and under are always free.
- Unionville afternoon parking: Main Street Unionville gets busy on long weekend afternoons. Use the Carlton Road City of Markham parking lot or the Toogood Pond lot and walk in — street parking fills quickly.
- Weather contingency: May weather in Markham can range from 12°C to 22°C. The Stouffville fireworks are weather-dependent — check the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville's social media on May 15 afternoon before leaving.
- Bank & services planning: Do any banking or government service needs (Service Ontario, passport, etc.) before the long weekend — most close on Victoria Day Monday, May 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Victoria Day in Markham — FAQ
When is Victoria Day 2026 in Ontario?
Victoria Day 2026 falls on Monday, May 18. The long weekend runs Friday, May 15 to Monday, May 18 — a statutory holiday in Ontario and widely treated as the unofficial start of summer.
What events are happening in Markham on Saturday, May 16?
Saturday is one of the most activity-packed days of the weekend. Markham Museum hosts International Museum Day (Bees, Bugs & Pollinators) from 11 AM to 5 PM. The Main Street Markham Farmers' Market runs from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Guardian Pharmacy lot. In the evening, Candlelight concerts at the Cathedral of the Transfiguration offer shows at 6:30 PM (Hans Zimmer) and 8:45 PM (Ed Sheeran & Coldplay) — both require tickets.
What events are happening in Markham on Sunday, May 17?
Sunday is the big outdoor day — Milne Dam Conservation Park officially opens its 2026 season on May 17. Trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing are all accessible from opening day. In the evening, Canada's Wonderland in Vaughan (~25 min west) has fireworks over Wonder Mountain at 10 PM with park admission.
Is there a Victoria Day fireworks show near Markham in 2026?
Yes. The closest confirmed fireworks display is the Town of Stouffville's annual Victoria Day Fireworks at Memorial Park on Friday, May 15 — free admission, with fireworks at 9:30 PM. Canada's Wonderland in Vaughan also has fireworks on May 17 at 10 PM included with park admission.
Is the Markham Public Library open on Victoria Day?
No. All Markham Public Library branches are closed on Victoria Day Monday, May 18, in observance of the statutory holiday. Library branches are open on the regular weekend days (May 15–17). The library's virtual branch and digital collections (ebooks, audiobooks, online databases) remain accessible 24/7.
What government services are closed on Victoria Day 2026?
On May 18, the following are closed: Markham City Hall and all municipal offices, Service Ontario locations, Service Canada centres and passport offices, provincial courts, and most major bank branches. Canada Post will not deliver mail. Many online services remain accessible. Plan accordingly before the long weekend begins.
Does Milne Dam Conservation Park charge admission on Victoria Day?
Yes — admission fees apply on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and on statutory holidays including Victoria Day Monday, May 18. The park is open all four days of the long weekend. Weekday visits are free. Debit and credit only at the gate; no cash accepted. Children 15 and under are always free.
Exploring Markham This Long Weekend?
Victoria Day weekend is one of the most active weekends in Markham real estate. Open houses are common in the Unionville, Cornell, and Markham Village neighborhoods. Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are available all weekend for showings and questions.
📞 647-370-8885 · ✉️ [email protected] · 🌐 kaizenrealestate.ca