As the days grow longer and Lake Huron sunsets stretch a little later into the evening, May marks the unofficial start of the Canadian summer season with the arrival of the Victoria Day long weekend. Across Ontario’s West Coast—patios begin to fill, trails come alive, garden centres buzz with activity, and communities across the county welcome visitors back for another season by the lake.

    Planning a Victoria Day weekend getaway? Huron County is the perfect place to ease into summer. For those itching to spend more time outdoors, Ontario’s West Coast offers a great selection of campground, cottage rentals, and lakeside accommodations—ideal for a long weekend of campfires, trail walks, sunsets, and small-town exploring.

    One of the surest signs of spring’s return is the reopening of local farmers’ markets. The Goderich BIA Farmers’ Market returns on May 16, bringing fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and locally made products to downtown Goderich. The Bayfield Farmers’ Market also returns May 15 in Bayfield, offering a perfect Saturday morning stop for local flavours and artisan finds.

    Freshly harvested beets

      For gardeners eager to get planting, local garden centres are fully stocked and ready for the season ahead. Huron Ridge Acres and Greyhaven Gardens are filled with annuals, hanging baskets, herbs, native plants, and gardening inspiration – perfect for both seasoned green thumbs and first-time gardeners.

      While the waters of Lake Huron are still a little chilly for swimming, May is one of the best times of year to explore the region’s many trails. Cooler temperatures and fewer insects make it ideal for hiking, cycling, and nature walks. Pick-up or download a copy of the  Ontario’s West Coast Trail Guide.

      Snowshoe

      May also brings a dose of pop culture fun with Huron County Comicon, where fans of comics, gaming, anime, cosplay, and collectibles gather for a day packed with entertainment and creativity.

       

      May is also the perfect time to hit the links. Huron County is home to scenic courses ranging from lakeside fairways to rolling countryside layouts, making it easy to turn a spring getaway into a golf weekend. Comfortable temperatures, fresh spring conditions, and quieter tee sheets make May one of the best times of year to play.