13 Reasons to Love May in Canada

ALBERTA: Medicine Hat's Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival

Medicine Hat's Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival is a free, family-friendly celebration that brings the community together to witness the awe-inspiring sight of hot air balloons soaring over the stunning landscapes of Medicine Hat and its surroundings.

📌May 22-25, 2025

BRITISH COLUMBIA: Richmond Night Market

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Richmond Night Market — and we’re celebrating like never before! With over a million visitors annually, our milestone season promises to be unforgettable. Enjoy exclusive admission deals, limited-time happy hour specials, and thrilling giveaways with one-of-a-kind prizes. Join us for this landmark celebration and be part of the excitement!

📌Apr 25 - Oct 13, 2025

MANITOBA: MB Food Truck Battles

MB Food Truck Battles is more than just a food fest — it’s a full-on celebration of community, music, and fun for all ages! Whether you're coming for the food trucks, live entertainment, or family-friendly activities, there's something here for everyone.

Bring your friends, family, and your appetite for a weekend packed with flavour, fun, and unforgettable memories.

📌May 24 - May 25, 2025

NEW BRUNSWICK: Paddlefest 2025

Paddlefest Music & Nature Festival 2025 is a vibrant four-day celebration of music, art, and the outdoors, held each spring in the scenic seaside town of St. Andrews, New Brunswick.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Qonaskamkuk — the unceded territory of the Peskotomuhkati Nation — the festival blends live music, local art, outdoor recreation, and environmental awareness into one unforgettable weekend. Paddlefest brings the community to life and kicks off the tourism season by celebrating the deep connection between creativity and the nature.

📌May 15 - 18, 2025

Newfoundland and Labrador: The East Coast Music Awards: Festival and Conference (ECMA)

The East Coast Music Awards: Festival and Conference (ECMA) is a five-day, high-energy celebration honouring the very best in East Coast music and talent.

For our 37th year, they’re thrilled to return to St. John’s, Newfoundland — bringing together hundreds of Atlantic Canadian artists, industry leaders, delegates, and fans for an unforgettable week of music, connection, and celebration.

From our iconic Awards Show and dynamic festival showcases to industry conferences, Fan Fest, and more — there’s something for everyone.

📌May 7–11, 2025

Northwest Territories: Aurora Day Trips

Aurora Day Trips take you to the best spots to witness the Northern Lights.

In the Northwest Territories, the Aurora Borealis graces the skies up to 240 nights a year, offering one of the most consistent and breathtaking Aurora-viewing experiences on Earth. But even in a place this magical, the Northern Lights can be elusive. That’s where expert Aurora guides come in. With deep local knowledge and years of experience, these seasoned Aurora hunters know exactly where to find the most spectacular views each night.

Nova Scotia: Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

The Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival is a beloved springtime celebration of tradition, community, and agricultural heritage — set against the breathtaking backdrop of blooming apple orchards.

Now in its 92nd year, the 2025 festival takes place at the end of May, just as the blossoms reach their peak, offering a warm welcome to visitors and marking the unofficial start of Nova Scotia’s summer season.

Come celebrate the bloom, the Valley, and a timeless tradition that continues to blossom year after year.

📌May 28 - June 1, 2025

Nunavut: Birdwatching

Birds of Many Feathers Flock to Nunavut: Birdwatching

With over 100 bird species calling it home — nearly all of them migratory — Nunavut is a haven for avian life.

Ontario: Canadian Tulip Festival

Canadian Tulip Festival Each May, Ottawa bursts into bloom as the city hosts its iconic flower festival, drawing over 50,000 visitors annually.

Beyond the breathtaking floral displays, the festival features dazzling fireworks, live concerts, a veterans’ memorial service, and a variety of events that celebrate the season in full colour.

📌May 9 - 19, 2025

Prince Edward Island: Street Feast

Join us on Kent Street this May Long Weekend for the fifth annual Street Feast  — Charlottetown’s ultimate two-day block party!

Kent Street will be bursting with energy as carnival-inspired street food, local brews, live music, dance shows, party games, quirky decor, trivia, buskers, and food contests transform the heart of the city into a vibrant urban playground.

Don’t miss the sights, sounds, and tastes of this unforgettable weekend — it’s everything you love about Charlottetown, all in one place!

📌May 16 -17, 2025

Quebec: Go Bike Montréal Festival

The Go Bike Montréal Festival is the ultimate celebration of the city’s vibrant cycling culture.

From scenic rides to lively events, it’s a week-long experience for riders of all ages and skill levels. Explore Greater Montréal during the Metropolitan Challenge, dive into cycling innovation and ideas at the Go Bike Conference, light up the streets during the festive Tour la Nuit, and join thousands of cyclists for the iconic Tour de l’Île de Montréal, showcasing the power of pedal across the city.

📌May 25 - June 1, 2025

Saskatchewan: The Prairie Lily Boat Tour

The Prairie Lily Riverboat
May marks the return of riverboat season in Saskatoon, as this charming cruise sets sail from its dock behind the Mendel Art Gallery.

Climb aboard and enjoy a scenic journey through the beautiful Meewasin Valley along the winding South Saskatchewan River — a relaxing way to experience the city from the water.

📌May 10 - August 30, 2025

Yukon: Faro Crane & Sheep Festival

Faro Crane & Sheep Festival Celebrate the rich wildlife and vibrant culture of our region with a weekend of fun-filled activities, local artisan crafts, delicious food, and live music!
Bring your family and friends and enjoy an unforgettable experience that blends community spirit with a deep connection to nature.

📌May 3 - 5, 2025