Discover Durham Region: A Month Full of Exciting May Events

As spring blossoms across Ontario, Durham Region springs to life with a vibrant lineup of events throughout May. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for family fun, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the top events to check out:

Clarington’s Got Talent (May 3, 2024)

Showcasing local talents, Clarington’s Got Talent is a perfect family-friendly event. Taking place at the Firehouse Youth Centre, it’s a great opportunity to support young performers and enjoy a variety of acts.

Maplefest in Bowmanville (May 4, 2024)

Experience the charm of spring in Historic Downtown Bowmanville at Maplefest. This beloved festival features local maple syrup producers and an array of maple-infused treats like donuts, fudge, and candies. Stroll through four city blocks of craft and food vendors, and enjoy a range of activities perfect for the family. With free admission and parking, Maplefest is a sweet way to enjoy the season​

Quilt Show: Port Perry Patchers Still Stitching Together ( May 10-11, 2024)

The Port Perry Patchers Quilt Guild is proud to present their 2024 show, Still Stitching Together on May 10 & 11, featuring over 150 beautiful quilts from a diverse range of styles and techniques.  Enjoy browsing the high-quality vendors mall, and treat yourself to lunch at our delicious and affordable café.  Make a day of it, and enjoy Port Perry’s historic downtown on the shores of Lake Scugog.  Admission is $10, with plenty of free parking and an accessible building.

Petapolooza - Pickering (May 11, 2024)

Get ready for a day full of tail wags at Petapolooza, a festival dedicated to pets and their owners. Located in Pickering, this event invites attendees to enjoy activities with their furry friends with a suggested donation of $5 which goes towards supporting animal-related charities.

Mothers Day Sunrise Paddle (May 12, 2024)

There's a reason paddlers love early morning outings. The sunrise is good for the soul, and water conditions are usually calmer and more favourable. Plus, once we get off the water you've still got the whole day to do whatever you want! Join us for this 90-minute dragon boat outing. This excursion is suitable for all levels. We'll take plenty of breaks for water, snacks, and pictures.

Monster Trucks All Out Northern Lights Party (May 25, 2024)

The Monster Trucks All Out Northern Lights Party is coming to Oshawa! Don’t miss this epic performance of lights, music, and motorsports action at Tribute Communities Centre on Saturday, May 25, 2024 – you gotta be there! Experience all the high-flying, ground-pounding action as iconic Canadian Monster Trucks battle it out in nonstop competition. We’re talking the untameable BUCKING BRONCO, big bad CANADIAN CRUSHER, high-flying OUT FOXED, and more! Be mesmerized by a state-of-the-art light show that is sure to dazzle. Plus a kids light show dance party! 

Food Truck Frenzy Whitby (May 25-26, 2024)

Food Truck Frenzy celebrates its 10th anniversary with over 30 food trucks parked at the Iroquois Sports Complex. From gourmet meals on wheels, local artisan crafts, to a dynamic Kids Zone with jumping castles and face painting, this event combines culinary delights with community spirit. Admission is $5, with children under 14 free

Ajax Rotary Ribfest (May 24-26, 2024)

Kicking off the summer, the Ajax Rotary Ribfest promises a weekend full of delicious BBQ, live music, and carnival attractions at the Ajax Downs Racetrack. This charity event is perfect for the entire family, offering free admission with donations appreciated. Enjoy Live Music, Vendors, REPTILLIA ZOO, a Carnival, along with our Famous Rib Vendors & all our Fantastic Food Trucks, all while supporting dozens of local charities.

28th Annual Golf Fore Grandview Kids Charity Golf Classic (May 30, 2024)

 Join us for a day packed with excitement, camaraderie, prizing and plenty of laughter, all in support of the children and youth with physical, communication, and developmental needs seeking care at Grandview Kids. Let's make a difference together, one swing at a time!

Brooklin Spring Fair (may 30-June 2, 2024)

The Brooklin Spring Fair theme for 2024 is We've Got a Good Thing Growing! The Demo Derby, Tractor Pull and Rodeo are gearing up. Performers are booked. Supporters, sponsors and volunteers are ready to welcome you back together again. Visit website for more details.

Each of these events provides a unique way to experience the vibrant community spirit of Durham Region. Whether you’re looking to engage in community activities, enjoy live performances, or partake in outdoor adventures, Durham has something to offer this May. See you there!