The May long weekend is the unofficial start of summer in Simcoe County, and there is no shortage of ways to get outside, explore local communities, and enjoy time with family and friends.
From farmers’ markets and festivals to live music, fireworks, workshops, and outdoor experiences, there is something happening across the region all weekend long.
At The Walker Team, we are always proud to highlight the local events and community experiences that make Simcoe County such a special place to call home.
1. Barrie Farmers’ Market
Cost: Free admission
Location: Barrie City Hall, 70 Collier St, Barrie
Spend your Saturday morning browsing local produce, baked goods, handmade items, and fresh coffee at the Barrie Farmers’ Market. It is a great way to support local vendors while enjoying the downtown atmosphere.
2. Elmvale Jungle Zoo Opening Weekend
Cost: $20 - $30
Location: 14191 Simcoe County Rd 27, Phelpston, ON L0L 1P0, Canada
Kick off zoo season with opening weekend at Elmvale Jungle Zoo. Families can spend the day visiting a wide variety of animals and exploring the grounds during the long weekend.
3. Orillia Farmers’ Market
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: Orillia Public Library, Orillia
The Orillia Farmers’ Market offers a welcoming community atmosphere with local food vendors, artisans, and seasonal products. It is a great stop for fresh ingredients and handmade goods.
4. Friday Harbour Long Weekend Activities & Fireworks
Cost: Free
Location: Friday Harbour Resort, Innisfil
Friday Harbour is celebrating the long weekend with a full day of activities including tie dye experiences, campfires with s’mores, and evening fireworks over the harbour.
5. Murphy’s Tulip Festival
Cost: $20
Location: 5141 County Rd 10, Alliston
Take in colourful spring blooms at Murphy’s Tulip Festival in Alliston. Visitors can stroll through the tulip fields and enjoy beautiful seasonal photo opportunities.
6. Muskoka Craft Beer Festival
Cost: $22.60
Location: River Mill Park, Huntsville, ON
Craft beer fans can head north to Huntsville for the Muskoka Craft Beer Festival featuring breweries, food vendors, and live entertainment in a scenic outdoor setting.
7. Watercolour Painting Workshop
Cost: $70
Location: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, Midland, ON
This watercolour workshop combines creativity with nature in a peaceful setting. Participants can enjoy guided painting instruction inspired by the surrounding wetlands and wildlife.
8. Collingwood Comicon
Cost: $5
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63, Collingwood, ON
Comic book fans and collectors can spend the day exploring vendors, comics, collectibles, and memorabilia at this affordable and family-friendly event.
9. National & World Fiddle Day Fundraiser
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: Eady Community Hall, 73 Eady Station Rd, Oro-Medonte, ON
Celebrate National and World Fiddle Day with an afternoon of live fiddle music, dancing, and community spirit while supporting Cope Service Dogs.
10. Live Music - Mark Stewart
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: Rawley Resort, Spa & Marina, Severn, ON
Enjoy an evening of live music at Rawley Resort with performer Mark Stewart in a relaxed waterfront setting during the holiday weekend.
11. Ukrainian Vyshyvanka Day Festival
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: Meridian Place, 30 Simcoe Street, Barrie
Celebrate Ukrainian culture and heritage with cultural performances, music, food, and family-friendly activities in downtown Barrie.
12. Yoga In The Fields
Cost: $34.95
Location: Murphy’s Farm Market, 5141 County Rd 10, Alliston ON, L9R 1V2
Start your morning with an outdoor yoga session surrounded by spring blooms and open countryside during the long weekend.
13. Centennial United Church Trunk and Table Sale
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: Centennial United Church-Stayner, 234 William Street, Stayner
This community trunk and table sale is a great place to browse unique finds, handmade goods, and household items while supporting local connections.
14. Portarama Family Festival
Cost: See event page for full details.
Location: See event page for full details.
Portarama is a long-running family festival featuring community events and activities throughout the weekend with entertainment and family-friendly fun.
Get the full event details here
Make the Most of the May Long Weekend Close to Home
The May long weekend is a great opportunity to explore local communities, support local events, and spend time outdoors with family and friends.
Whether you are visiting a farmers’ market, attending a festival, or enjoying live entertainment, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the start of the season across Simcoe County.
From all of us at The Walker Team, we wish you a fun and memorable Victoria Day weekend.
