It’s our favourite time of the year! In and around Victoria the city sparkles with festive displays, Christmas markets and special events for all to enjoy. There is so much to do during the holiday season so we’ve chosen our Top 10 Things To Do in Victoria this Christmas for you to discover this year!
The Festival of Trees
November 16, 2016 – January 5, 2017
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this season, the Festival has 65 trees on display at the Bay Centre, and 20 trees at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Decorated by local businesses, sponsors and organizations the Festival brings the community together during the holidays in support of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation! Vote for your favourite and donate to this important charity.
Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
December 1, 2016 – January 6, 2017
Victoria’s famous Butchart Gardens is beautifully-lit throughout the festive season with thousands of Christmas lights and holiday wreaths. Enjoy classic traditions with the 12 Days of Christmas displays throughout the gardens, enjoy outdoor ice skating, treat yourself to festive dining or listen to the carolers.
Marina Light Up
November 26, 2016 – 4pm
Head down to the Inner Harbour, and along to our very own docks at Wharf Street to enjoy the colourful display of Christmas lights and decor on the boats!
Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade
November 26, 2016 – 5.45pm
Victoria’s famous parade featuring festive floats, music, dancers and much more entertainment for all the family! Join Santa for refreshments after the parade finishes at Centennial Square and bring a donation for the Mustard Seed Food Bank.
Christmas Starlight Cinema
Every Tuesday and Wednesday evening throughout December
Watch your favourite Christmas classic movies under the stars at these special screenings courtesy of the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa! Complimentary admission, donations to Santa’s Anonymous are welcomed.
Ogden Point Light Up, Christmas Market & Truck Convoy
December 3, 2016 – 2pm
Enjoy an afternoon filled with holiday activities at this family event with Christmas music, children’s crafts and face painting, food trucks and local gift market. Stay until dusk to see the spectacular truck convoy, lit with thousands of Christmas lights, head out through the city in all its festive glory!
Annual Gingerbread Showcase
November 19, 2016 – Jan 2, 2017 9am – 9pm
The Inn at Laurel Point hosts Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase benefiting Habitat for Humanity. Professional and amateur bakers present their amazing festive creations for judging, this year’s theme is Around the World!
Christmas at the Royal BC Museum
December 2 – 4, 2016
Visit Christmas in Old Town and join Santa at the Museum this December. Experience the festive season of days gone by and sing at the 10th Annual Carol-Along as the bells of the Carillon tower play.
Uptown Christmas Parade & Light-Up
November 19, 2016 6pm – 7pm
Join the holiday celebration at Uptown Shopping Centre as the annual tree lighting event takes place with a parade, entertainment and performances, live holiday music and shopping. Bring new scarves, gloves and hats for donation to the Our Place Society.
Christmas Ferris Wheel in Centennial Square
November 29 – December 21, 2016
View the festive lights of our beautiful city from your vantage point 20 metres above! Enjoy holiday entertainment, food vendors and Santa. $3 per ride.