Spring has a way of awaken our souls. We shed the layers of winter and wash away the grit beneath our feet. It’s a natural wonder we appreciate when we walk through the city. Buds are on the verge of bursting into colourful reminders to celebrate this softer season renewal. And we know how much Torontonians love our spring season. Just head to any park during Magnolia and Cherry Blossom (Sakura) season and be amongst many who admire the blooms. Here are our favourite ways to celebrate the Spring season in the city.
Hues of Spring Afternoon Tea at Shangri-la Toronto Hotel: Thursdays to Sundays, until May 11
The most exquisite Afternoon Tea of the season has arrived at this luxurious hotel. With an overall blush pink theme, the chefs here have created a most memorable experience, including arriving tableside to create a picture-worthy sweet finish. Begin with a glass flute of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic Raspberry Fizz. Then, choose a fresh brewed pot of tea from the curated menu (the Shangri-la Signature Tea is a favourite!) before the delightful selection of savoury and sweet arrives. Each morsel is freshly made in-house using the freshest ingredients. The presentation is also meticulous and breathtakingly beautiful. As always, our much loved scones are part of the three-tiered sweet arrival. Don’t miss the house-made preserves! There’s also live music – a lovely way to enjoy the season. Reservation required.
Luxurious Spring Epicurean Getaway: Shangri-la Toronto Hotel
For an unforgettable spring retreat, the hotel also offers two unique experiences designed for culinary enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Guests can book The Epicurean Getaway— a two-night stay with daily breakfast and an exclusive shopping expedition at the historic St. Lawrence Market led by an expert chef, followed by a three-course dining experience at Bosk, embracing the Rooted in Nature philosophy. The second experience is a Heli Adventure in Niagara package that offers a scenic helicopter ride over Niagara Falls and the wine region, and a three-course meal at Peller Estates Winery, paired with the winemaker’s selections before returning to Toronto.
SakuraFest at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre: 6 Sakura Way, until May 11
The first ever SakuraFest has begun with an incredible line up of live performances, film screenings, art demonstrations and workshops, culinary experiences, tea ceremonies, family-friendly events and more. The festive celebration honours the cultural and seasonal significance of Sakura through the lens of Japanese heritage, tradition, artistry and community. Yes, there are Cherry Blossoms happening early May on the grounds surrounding the JCCC! See our complete write up here.
Hanami “Flower Viewing” during Cherry Blossom Season:
Part of enjoying the views of cherry blossoms is gathering with friends and family to admire and even bring some snacks to enjoy together. Bring your picnic blanket and food under the blossom canopy. We recommend ordering up the beautiful Sakura boxes from Hello Nori to take with you. Wondering where to go? High Park is always a favourite. The paths to the trees are limited to pedestrian use only during the busy spring season. Other great spots include Centennial Park, Spencer Smith Park, Birkdale Ravine, and Trinity Bellwoods Park.
Jane’s Walk: May 2 to 4
This annual community-building tradition honours the legacy and work of Torontonian Jane Jacobs – a journalist, urbanist and activist whose writings championed a fresh, community-based approach to city building. She saw cities as ecosystems that had their own logic and dynamism, which would change over time according to how they were used. She wrote eloquently about sidewalks, parks, retail design and self-organisation. At the core of her work and thinking was the need to get out and walk your city and observe how people, through their actions and interactions, create communities with a strong sense of belonging.
Jane’s Walk was founded in 2007 as a community-led way to honour and commemorate her work. Today, thousands of people worldwide take part in this annual event. Volunteer-led walking tours help to make spaces for people to observe, reflect, share, question, and re-imagine the places in which they live, work and play; giving agency to and championing the voices of everyday people. You can find the Toronto list here.
Evergreen Brick Works: ongoing
Explore one of our favourite urban spaces this spring by joining in one of their free public tours, shop the Farmer’s Market, admire the wildlife and creatures in their natural habitat (do so peacefully without disturbing or feeding, please), food vendors, and visit the public gardens. Visit their garden centre to discover and bring home what’s ready to plant in your very own garden oasis. You can access the Lower Don parkland for a hike as well.
