Cherry blossoms and more beautiful things to see in GTA

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It’s the last weekend of April — can you believe it?

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The Maple Leafs will be in Ottawa to play the Senators in Game 4 on Saturday night, but there will be a tailgate party in Maple Leaf Square at Scotiabank Arena, with the game being played on the outdoor big screen.

And while there is no such thing as a date on when cherry blossoms, or sakura, bloom for a limited time each year, in Toronto it’s typically between late April and early May — so, it could be now or very soon.

Here’s what you need to know to make the necessary plans.

Cherry Blossom Photo Walks

Buds are now in late stage four at High Park, but that’s not the only place to capture the beauty.

There are some hidden gems around the city where the gorgeous sights can be found including Exhibition Place, where buds have already started to appear.

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A series of free guided photo walks is being offered by the West Toronto Photography Group, where photographers of all skill levels can capture the blossoms at their peak.

The walks at Bandshell Park begin Saturday at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. as well as Monday to Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

To reserve your spot or for more information, click here.

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SakuraFest

The month-long celebration has already begun but the inaugural festival featuring activities for the whole family including films, workshops and fabulous food continues on.

Experience the beauty of spring through the lens of Japanese heritage, tradition and artistry as the cultural and seasonal significance of sakura in Canada is honoured.

Prepare to be mystified at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre until May 11.

For more information, click here.

Barkada Market

Kick off the spring season with a fun day of shopping, music and delicious food while supporting more than 30 Asian-owned vendors and businesses.

Expect unique handmade items, jewelry, home decor, art and more at the pet-friendly pop-up.

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Head to Stackt Market on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, click here.

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Earth Day at Downsview Park

Celebrate the planet and the environment during this rain-or-shine event, where visitors will learn about ways to reduce their environmental footprint, and connect with like-minded individuals and organizations.

All the fun is at the Play Zone at Downsview Park on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, click here.

ROM After Dark: Boots and Blooms

If country vibes and fresh spring energy is what you have a hankering for, then look no further than this special Earth Day edition, featuring toe-tapping, side-stepping performances and interactive fun.

The 19-plus crowd can expect lively lawn games, immersive selfie booths and climate-focused activities and surprises around every corner. Yee-haw!

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Stomp on over to the Royal Ontario Museum on Friday at 7:30 p.m.

For tickets and more information, click here.

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Firecracker Comedy Café

Some of Toronto’s funniest comedians, who just happen to be female and non-binary, are back for a high-energy show.

If you like your stand-up sharp, hilarious and inclusive, and you’re a morning person, this is the show for you.

Laugh your butt off at the Assembly Theatre at 1479 Queen St. W. on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. when doors open.

For tickets and more information, click here.

Living Luxe Design Show

The lines between interior design and fashion are blurred in this space with a program that features an impressive lineup of speakers, immersive exhibits, and cutting-edge showcases spanning interior design, architecture, fashion, real estate, and luxury living.

Prepare to be wowed at Toronto Congress Centre from Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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For tickets and more information, click here.

Annual Khalsa Day Celebration

Vaisakhi, also known as Khalsa Day, celebrates the Sikh New Year and the establishment of the Sikh community in 1699.

The star is the annual parade — the third largest in Canada — along Lake Shore Blvd. and is expected to attract thousands of participants and spectators.

The parade kicks off on Sunday at 1 p.m. from the CNE grounds and travels east to Toronto City Hall, finishing up at 3:30 p.m.

For more information, click here.

Note: Road closures include Queen St. W. from Bay St. to York St. from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., while Lake Shore Blvd. W. between British Columbia Rd. and Bay St., York St. between Lake Shore Blvd. W. and Front St. and between Queen and Adelaide Sts., University Ave. between Front and Dundas Sts. and Queen St. W. between Simcoe and York Sts. are affected from 12:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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Hot Docs Festival

The non-profit dedicated to showcasing and supporting the work of Canadian and international documentary filmmakers, and to promote and celebrate excellence in documentary production.

And don’t forget the fest’s dynamic series of knowledge sessions, networking opportunities and market programs for documentary practitioners and industry delegates, including the renowned Hot Docs Forum, Hot Docs Deal Maker and The Doc Shop.

This year marks the 32nd annual edition which runs until May 4 in venues across Toronto.

For tickets, schedules and more information, click here.

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