Its that time of year again! The air is feeling crisp, the shops are getting busier and you are humming Christmas carols. Whether you are a local or a tourist, there are many festive things you can do in Victoria that takes you out of the Christmas shopping hustle and bustle.
Here are some of our suggestions to get you in the holiday spirit:
November 16, 2017 – January 2, 2018
The Festival of Tree’s has become an annual tradition as it celebrates it 26th year. Participate by voting for your favourite tree, it might be hard to choose as there will be 83 of them! This event really brings the community together during the holiday and all funds raised will be donated to the BC Children’s Hospital.
Admission: By donation
Location: The Bay Centre
9th Annual Gingerbread Showcase
November 18, 2017 – January 2, 2018
The Gingerbread Showcase highlights the creativity of bakers from across Vancouver Island. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Canada”. Donate and vote for your favourite, donations benefit Habitat for Humanity, who will help build a home for a family in need.
Admission: By donation
Location: Parkside Hotel
November 25, 2017 – January 9, 2018
Go back in time and visit Old Town this Christmas, you might even see Santa! Walk the decorated cobble stone streets located at the Royal BC Museum.
Admission: Included in museum admission
Location: Royal BC Museum
Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
December 1, 2017 – January 6, 2018
Christmas lights, ice skating, carollers, wreaths, festive dinning – there is something for everyone at the Magic of Christmas. Sip hot chocolate as you wander through the gardens humming Christmas carols, tis the season!
Admission: Adults – $27.00/ Youth – $13.50/ Children – $3.00
Location: Butchart Gardens
Sea of Lights – Lighted Ship Parade
December 1, 7:00pm
This annual event offers great family fun. A fleet of boats, led by the Canadian Navy training ship, will light up the nights sky as they cruise by. We suggest viewing from Willows Beach in Oak Bay, the Oak Bay Fire Department will keep everyone warm with a bonfire and Kiwanis will serve hot chocolate.
Admission: Free
Location: Willows Beach
December 2, 10am-4:30pm
The Dickens Fair has been decking its halls for over 30 years with local artisans and activities. Hosted by the James Bay Market Society, the Dickens Fair has something for everyone. From treasures to toys, you will find everything from great homemade foods to uniquely crafted gifts. Check out Victoria’s oldest beloved Christmas fair.
Admission: $2.00. Children under 12 free.
Location: James Bay Community Centre
December 3, 11am – 3pm
This Christmas we want every child in our community to wake up on Christmas morning with a present to unwrap. This year the Victoria Public Market is hosting a Toy Drive. Bring an unwrapped toy and receive a doughnut from Yonni’s Doughnuts, and a coffee from Discovery Coffee. Plus you can make a child smile this holiday season!
Admission: Free. Bring an unwrapped toy.
Location: Victoria Public Market
Victoria’s Children Choir – Classical Christmas Concert
December 4, 7:00pm
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season and be entertained by the Victoria Children’s Choir. Listen to all the Christmas carols you love performed live, in the beautiful Christ Church Cathedral. This event is truly a Christmas treat.
Admission: $20.00. Children under 7 free.
Location: Christ Church Cathedral
December 5, 7:30pm
Vancouver Island Performers Guild Presents Handel’s Messiah. 16 singers, 11 piece orchestra, 4 soloists, 1 magical evening.
Admission: $20 Reg, $15 Students and Seniors
Location: North Douglas Church
December 9 – December 10, 10am – 4pm
The Moss Street Holiday Market is the Moss Street Market you love but with a Christmas twist. There will be over 80 vendors. Find some locally made crafts, clothing, jewelry, art, plus winter vegetables and hot apple cider. A perfect place to find some locally made Christmas gifts.
Admission: By donation
Location: Sir James Douglas School
Happy Holidays!