The holidays are a wonderful time of the year to see and experience all that Victoria has to offer. With so much going on and special sights, we have curated a list of Greater Victoria’s best holiday events for you to enjoy!
For more things happening around town, check out our events calendar.
25th Annual Festival of Trees
What: For the past 24 years the Festival of Trees has created a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise much-needed funds for BC Children’s Hospital. The festival knits together the incredibly generous community of Victoria in what has become, over the last two decades, a cherished holiday tradition and the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in the city. Victoria Buzz are proud media sponsors of this event.
When: Friday, Nov 16, 2016 – January 5, 2016
Where: The Bay Centre and The Fairmont Empress
Bears on the Move- A Teddy Bear Christmas
What: Hundreds of Teddy Bears will be invading Sidney Museum for the Christmas season. They will be getting up to their usual antics, but this year they will be travelling! Up, Up and Away in a hot air balloon, or riding in an airplane or even taking the train. A special feature this year is the beautiful and gentle art of Erin Vanessa that will compliment the displays with painted scenes of teddy bears on their travels. This is an annual ‘must’ for all the family.
When: Nov 16 – Dec 31, 2016, open 10AM – 4PM daily
Where: Sidney Museum, 2423 Beacon Ave, Sidney
Admission: By donation
7th Annual Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase
What: More than just a house, these are “sweet” masterpieces! This event brings together professionals and amateur chefs from across Canada, dazzling visitors with their skills. Vote for your favourite and make a donation to Habitat for Humanity Victoria. This year’s theme is “Around the World” and bakers are encouraged to let their creativity lead the way, whether it is finding inspiration in travel, traditions and cultures, or adventures with friends. Victoria Buzz are proud to be one of this year’s official judges.
When: Nov. 19, 2016 and runs until Jan. 2, 2017, with viewing from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Where: Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal St
Victorian Christmas Craft Fair 2016
What: Hand-made Christmas decorations that will have you decking the halls, contemporary pieces for your home year round, local, gourmet baking and treats, and so much more! The Victorian Christmas will get your jingle bells ringing just in time for the Holiday Season.
When: Saturday, Nov 19, 2016, 10AM-5PM; Sunday, Nov 20, 2016, 10AM-4PM
Where: Commonwealth Pool, 4636 Elk Lake Dr
Admission: $3 which covers both days. Children under 12 free.
Christmas Market at Mount St. Mary Hospital
What: A Christmas Market of unique gifts. Local vendors offer woodworking, jewelry, knitting, jams, baking and more. There is also a silent auction, 50/50 draws, & attic treasures sale! The Canadian College of Performing Arts will perform a Capella 11APM-2PM. Snacks & hot turkey lunch available. Stroller & wheelchair accessible.
When: Saturday, Nov 19, 2016, 10AM-3PM
Where: Mount St. Mary Hospital, 861 Fairfield Road
Christmas Bazaar, Silent Auction and Luncheon
What: It’s time for the annual Christmas Bazaar, Luncheon and Silent Auction at Christ Church Cathedral School. Baking, toys, books, decorations and much much more, including a fabulous lunch. Come early if you want to get something at the bake table – it sells out quickly! Lots of great items to bid on at the silent auction.
When: Saturday, Nov 19, 2016, 11AM-3PM
Where: Christ Church Cathedral School, 912 Vancouver St
November Noel
What: Pre-Christmas Celebration! Local Artisans, Baked Goods, Local Farm Market Vendors!
When: Saturday, Nov 19, 2016, 9:30AM-1PM
Where: St. John’s United Church, 10990 West Saanich Rd
Uptown Tree Light Up and Parade
What: Don’t miss out on the Annual Lighting of the 54ft. Christmas Tree and the Christmas Parade! The parade will loop the Boulevard twice, and don’t worry you’ll have enough time to make it back to Town Plaza for Santa to light the tree. Stick around after the light up to hear some festive tunes.
When: Saturday, Nov 19th, 2016 at parade at 6:05PM. Tree light-up at 6:40PM. Arrive early to snag the best seats along the Boulevard.
Where: Uptown Shopping Centre
Little Gems Holiday Art and Craft Fair
What: Presented by The Community Arts Council of Greater Victoria, all the works of art are under $300. Find something unique for Christmas – sculpture, art cards, prints, painting, photography and more, while supporting local artists!
When: Nov 19-Dec 18, 2016
Where: The Bay Centre, 636 Fort Street
25th Annual Highlands Winter Craft Fair
What: Step back in time and experience what a traditional craft fair used to be like! Enjoy hot apple cider and fresh baking, while browsing through a great selection of work from local artisans. Take a beautiful Sunday drive up into the hills to the ever-so-charming, late 1800s heritage buildings.
When: Sunday, Nov 20, 2016, 10AM-4PM
Where: 1589 Millstream Rd AND 729 Finlayson Arm Rd
Winter Market Opens in the Spencer Mansion
What: Get into the Holiday spirit while you shop for unique handcrafted gifts by local artists in the beautiful Spencer Mansion, in the Art Gallery of Victoria’s Winter Market opening! Sip on some delicious hot apple Sea Cider and listen to live music by Jon Middleton and Sierra Lunday.
When: Thursday, Nov 24 at 5PM-9PM. Then also on Fri, Nov 25-Sun, Nov 26, 10AM-5PM.
Where: Spencer Mansion, 1040 Moss Street
Admission: Free!
28th Annual Out of Hand Artisan Fair
What: Get your Christmas shopping done at Victoria’s most prestigious artisan fair. Find some of BC’s most creative artisans, bringing an eclectic mix of food, fashion, home decor and art. There will be Door Prizes from donations by participating artisans, with several drawn each day. Also a pop-up etsy boutique where you can meet your favorite etsy sellers and discover new ones. The Fairmont Empress will set up a gourmet bistro in the ballroom on the upper level. Grab a tasty snack or a meal while you ponder your gift list!
When: Friday, Nov. 25, 10AM–9PM; Saturday, Nov. 26, 10AM-6PM; Sunday, Nov 27, 10AM-4:30PM
Where: The Crystal Gardens, 713 Douglas St
2nd Annual Magic of Christmas Craft Fair
What: 100 vendors with everything from crafts, clothing, jewlery, home furnishings, food and more! Kids area, crafts, face painting and Santa will be visiting the craft fair between 11AM-1PM!
When: Saturday, Nov 26 at 10AM-4PM
Where: City Centre Park 1089 Langford Parkway
Admission: A suggested $2 donation. All proceeds going to Santa’s Anonymous.
Oaklands West Coast Winter Market
What: Over 50 vendors from all over Greater Victoria including farmers, artisans, gourmet food producers, baked goods, potters, knitters, crafters, handmade body products, jewelry, and more! The Market also features live music, an afternoon beer garden, food trucks, a locally sourced concession, as well as activities for kids.
When: Saturday, Nov 26 at 10AM-4PM
Where: Oaklands Community Centre and Oaklands Elementary Gym, 1-2827 Belmont Avenue
St. George’s Annual Christmas Fair
What: Find a unique Christmas gift, bags of holly&Christmas wreaths, have lunch with friends, hear Christmas music and more! Don’t miss the home baking and preserves area, where you’ll find delicious concoctions such as rose water panettone, fresh apple pies made by the church congregation from local apple trees, and spreads&jams both savory and sweet. There will also be a silent auction with lots of goodies.
When: Saturday, Nov 26 at 10AM-2PM
Where: St. George’s Church, 3909 St. George’s Lane
Sidney Lawn Bowling Club’s Christmas Bake & Craft Sale
What: Delicious home-made items, jams, baked goods, crafts and more!
When: Saturday, Nov 26 at 9AM-1PM
Where: Sidney Lawn Bowling Club, 9580 Fifth Street (near Ocean Avenue, across from Tulista Park)
Marina Light Up
What: Don’t miss the many colourful boats in the Inner Harbour lit in a vibrant display of Christmas lights! Festive lights and decor will also adorn the Inner Harbour, Wharf Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf Marinas. Lights will be lit through the end of December.
When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 to Saturday, Dec 31, 2016, dusk-11:30PM
Where: Inner Harbour, Wharf Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf Marinas.
Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade
What: Begin your Christmas Season in Victoria with the magical Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade! Floats and bands, entertainment and lots of fun for the entire family. Head to Centennial Square to see the Christmas Tree Light-Up and witness SANTA OFFICIALLY DECLARE CHRISTMAS IN VICTORIA OPEN!
When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 parade begins at 5:45PM in front of Legislature, heads along Government St to Chatham St.
Where: Government Street, Downtown Victoria
9th Annual Centennial Square Christmas Tree Light-Up
What: Join the DVBA, City of Victoria and the Greater Victoria Festival Society to kick-off the holiday season in Centennial Square. Enjoy musical performances, eat at a food truck or two, enjoy the Centennial Inn, ride the Ferris Wheel, and watch as thousands of lights are switched on at 7:30PM to create a Winter Wonderland. For the first time, Santa will also be joining for the Light-Up – so come after the Island Farms Santa Light Parade, and meet him before he goes back to work at the North Pole.
When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 – 6PM-9:30PM. Tree light-up at 7:30PM.
Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria
DVBA Ferris Wheel in Centennial Square
What: The Ferris Wheel is back this holiday season! Witness the lights of Centennial Square and Downtown Victoria from 20 metres up. Grab a snack from local food vendors, enjoy holiday entertainment, try out the audio-reactive tree, meet Santa, and snap a picture with the Polar Bear and the Ferris Wheel photo backdrop.
When: Saturday, Nov 26 – Friday, Dec 23, 2016. Check the DVBA website for exact times and dates. Ferris Wheel will not operate in inclement weather.
Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria
Admission: Rides are $3 or $2/5. New this year, spend $10 or more at a participating downtown business and receive a voucher to ride the Ferris Wheel for $1 (while supplies last). Height restrictions may apply.
Free Horse-Drawn Trolley Tours
What: Enjoy a classic downtown tradition with your family this holiday season for FREE! Every weekend, horse-drawn trolleys will circulate throughout downtown making it an enjoyable experience for you as you take in the festive sights and sounds of the holidays. The trolleys are a unique way to tour the downtown or take a scenic break while you rest your weary feet.
When: Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2016; Saturdays & Sundays 11AM-3PM
Where: Pre-set trolley routes throughout the downtown with 4 stops at:
A: Store St. at Chatham St. – In front of Capital Iron
B: Johnson St. near Wharf St. – In front of Willie’s Bakery
C: Langley St. at Bastion Sq. – Across from Re-Bar
D: Government St. at Fisgard St. – In front of CRD Plaza
Christmas Carollers
What: Listen for your holiday favorites in Downtown Victoria as carollers roam the streets bringing tidings and good cheer.
When: Nov 27 – Dec 20, 2016, Saturdays 11AM-3PM & Sundays noon-4PM.
Where: Downtown Victoria
16th Annual Bear Wear
What: A beloved holiday tradition and annual fundraiser for the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. A wonderful festive display of cuddly bears dressed up in costumes by local sponsors, business, organizations, and individuals. Victoria Buzz are proud media sponsors of this event.
When: Monday, Nov 28 to Monday, January 2, 2017
Where: Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St
The Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens 2016
What: Christmas lights, holiday wreaths, carollers, festive dining & skating all taking this at the gardens this coming holiday season. The Magic of Christmas Light Up Ceremony is on December 1 at 5PM. Visit the Magic of Christmas calendar here for all details.
When: Thursday, Dec 1, 2016 – Tuesday Jan 6, 2017.
Where: The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave
Christmas Craft Beer Show
What: The Christmas Craft Beer Show will showcase many fantastic local micro-breweries, and let everyone gather together to display their seasonal products as well as their brewery favorites. Dont miss out on an event that is surely going to satisfy all beer lovers and food and beverage professionals ahead of the holiday season! More information here.
When: Friday, Dec 2, 5PM-9PM, Saturday, Dec 3, 1PM-5PM
Where: Save On Foods Memorial Centre
Kick-Off to Christmas Merchants Open House
What: The Sidney Merchants Open House launches the holiday season with multiple activities and treats designed to tickle the fancy of even the most Grinch-like family member. There will be FREE horse-drawn carriage rides, the Linden Singers performing traditional storybook Christmas carols, beautiful shop windows, and more!
When: Friday, Dec 2, 2016, 5PM-9PM
Where: Various Merchants Downtown Sidney
Breakfast with Santa – Sidney
What: Save the date for the Peninsula Celebrations Society’s annual Breakfast with Santa! A delicious Pancake Breakfast will be served by the Sidney Lion’s Club. Face painting by Susi Sunshine and there will also be photos with Santa (by donation)!
When: Saturday, Dec 3, 2016, at 8:30AM with Santa arriving at 9AM.
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue
Admission: $7 per adult and $5 for children under 12. Tickets at the door.
Ogden Point Light Up and Christmas Market
What: Enjoy an afternoon filled with holiday music and kids activities. Spend some time with Santa and get your holiday picture by donation. Find the perfect Christmas gift among the local vendor offerings and treat yourself to tasty snacks and hot chocolate. Stay until dusk and watch Ogden Point and the Truck Convoy as they light up with thousands of Christmas lights. Bring your non-perishable food items and cash donations to support the Mustard Seed and local food banks.
When: Saturday, Dec 3, 2016, 2PM-6PM.
Where: Ogden Point, 199 Dallas Road
IEOA Truck Light Convoy & Food Drive
What: Help Support the Local Food Bank by heading out to the streets on Dec 3rd, and watching a convoy of festive trucks roll by. Bring the entire family to enjoy the holiday tradition, as it rolls through your neighbourhood!
When: Saturday, Dec 3 at 6:30PM-8:30PM
Where: For route and timing see map here.
Santa Claus Brunch Series
What: Back by popular demand , is our Santa Claus Brunch, where kids can eat, meet and snap a photo with Jolly Old Saint Nick himself. Start a new tradition by bringing the whole family down to relax and spend some time together on the ever-gorgeous harbourside Terrace Ballroom. Fee and reservations information here.
When: Sunday, Dec 4; Sunday, Dec 11; Sunday, December 18. Brunch seatings available between 11AM-2PM.
Where: The Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal Street
Esquimalt Celebration of Lights Parade
What: Lots of floats, lighted vehicles and musical groups, and of course lights! This free event is a community celebration supported by volunteers, Esquimalt’s Business Community and the Township. The event includes a parade, light up of the Esquimalt Plaza, Memorial Park, Municipal Hall\Library. Entertainment and refreshments.
When: Sunday, Dec 4, 2016, 5PM-7PM
Where: Parade Route: At 5:00 pm, the parade begins on Canteen Road and proceeds on Esquimalt Road, and finally to Archie Browning Centre where you’ll find fun for the whole family.
Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade
What: Grab a hot chocolate or your favourite warm beverage, then line up along Beacon Avenue and Second Street to get a terrific view of the annual Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade starting at 5PM. Keep your eyes out for the Jolly Old Elf – Santa himself riding atop the Sidney Fire Department truck. Then immediately following, head to the waterfront to view the parade of lighted in boats in the annual Sailpast of Lighted Boats that lights up the coastline from Port Sidney to Tulista Park! (The Lighted Boat Parade is weather dependent.)
When: Sunday, Dec 4, 2016, parade begins at 5PM
Where: Beacon Avenue, Sidney
16th Annual Classical Christmas Concert
What: A celebration of the Canadian holiday season in song with The Victoria Children’s Choir – 90 students in Concert, Recital, and Prelude ensembles, as well as alumni singers; The Victoria Baroque Players; Men from the St. Christopher Singers. Singing Schubert’s Mass in G major, winter carols, traditional music, new compositions, and sing-a-long songs from Canada and around the world. Everyone welcome.
When: Monday, Dec 5, 2016, 7pm-9pm
Where: Christ Church Cathedral, 930 Burdett Ave
Admission: TICKETS: $20, ORDER ONLINE, or purchase at Christ Church Catedral, Ivy’s Bookshop, or at the door. (Children age seven and younger free)
Colwood Christmas Light Up
What: Join the community celebration when City Hall officially lights up for the Christmas season! Reconnect with friends and neighbours while you enjoy musical performances by local groups. Come for a hot chocolate provided by Bitez Sandwich Bar, hot dogs supplied and grilled by the Red Barn Market BarnBQ and tasty treats courtesty of Royal Bay Bakery! There will be fun craft activities for kids, led by volunteers from West Shore Parks and Recreation to keep them busy while they eagerly await Santa’s arrival by fire truck.
When: Wednesday, Dec 7th, 2016, 6PM-8PM
Where: Colwood City Hall 3300 Wishart Road
Esquimalt’s Live Christmas Tree Village
What: Experience the magic of the holidays in the Third Annual Living Christmas Tree Village! Over 40 trees decorated by local businesses and community groups will fill the Esquimalt Recreation Centre and the Archie Browning Sports Centre. Be sure to vote for your favourite. Your vote doubles as a draw prize entry; draws to take place at random throughout the month of December. The winning tree will receive an Esquimalt Recreation prize package valued at $500. There is no cost to view trees.
When: Dec 8-26, 2016.
Where:
Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street: 5:30AM-10:30PM
Archie Browning Sports Centre, 1151 Esquimalt Road: 8AM-9PM
Last Chance Christmas Craft Show
What: A wide selection of handcrafted items meeting the highest standards of the finest arts and crafts available on the West Coast of BC. Pottery, metal works, sculptures, wood working, glass and yarn works, weaving, body & skin care, jewelry and sweet & savoury treats. Admission $4 which covers access to both days, along with hourly door prizes from vendors. Children Under 12 FREE. Tickets only at door.
When: Saturday, Dec 10, 10AM-5PM and Sunday, Dec 11, 10AM-4PM
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue
Father Christmas in Old Town
What: Visit with Father Christmas in Old Town to have your photo taken and share your holiday wishes.
When: Saturday, Dec 10, 2016, 11AM-3PM
Where: Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville St
Cost: Included with admission or membership. Photo by donation.
Tuba Christmas Victoria
What: A tradition that began in New York City’s Rockefeller Centre some 40 years ago; more than 65 tuba players from across BC and the Pacific Northwest come together to play much loved Christmas songs in a big way!
When: Saturday, Dec 10, 1PM-3PM
Where: Market Square
This Little Light
What: This holiday season Belfry Theatre brings you this melodious musical as a staged presentation. A beautiful way to celebrate the season and a special way to experience this brand new musical play, written specifically for Victoria and Fernwood. Starring members of the Canadian College of the Performing Arts’ Company C, local school choirs and other special guests.
When: Dec 10-23, 2016. Showtimes here
Where: Belfry Theare, 1291 Gladstone Ave
Tales of a Charlie Brown Christmas
What: A beloved Christmas classic is coming to Victoria. Vince Guaraldi and his new trio together with the Victoria Children’s Choir, brings the spirit of Christmas to life through stunning music and charming holiday tales.
When: Saturday, Dec 10, 2016, 8PM
Where: Dave Dunnet Community Theatre, 2121 Cadboro Bay Road
Admission: tickets $39
Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular
What: A celebration of Christmas as well as an extravaganza of music and dance, lights and decorations, laughter and tears. Now in it’s 10th year, this year’s singing and dancing extravaganza will include new broadway hits, classical songs and Christmas favourites, as well as musical tributes to Johnny Cash, June Carter, Ella Fitzgerald and the Village People. Elvis will once again grace the stage and the sights and sounds of Abba will be back by popular demand. Enjoy the old classic White Christmas as well as beautiful arrangements of Schubert’s Ave Maria and Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.
When: Saturday, Dec 10 at 3PM and 7PM; and Sunday, Dec 11 at 3PM
Where: McPherson Playhouse, #3 Centennial Square
Admission: tickets $49
4th Annual Metchosin Light Parade
What: Fire Trucks and Emergency Services vehicles will be decorated for the Christmas season with bright lights and decorations as they make their way through the streets of Metchosin. Visit Metchosin Fire Dept website for approximate times and route.
When: Sunday, Dec 11, 2016 6PM–8PM
Where: Metchosin Fire Hall, 4440 Happy Valley Rd
Joy and Roy Holiday Special
What: It’s that time of the year for another Holiday Special with roots/folk rock band Jon and Roy! This is an all ages show.
When: Sunday, Dec 11, 2016, 7PM
Where: Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora Ave
Admission: $26, available here and in-person at Lyle’s Place.
CBC Radio & Our Place present ‘A Christmas Carol’
What: CBC & Our Place Society present a reading of Dickens’ Classic Tale, ‘A Christmas Carol’ featuring Shelagh Rogers, Bob McDonald, Arthur Black & more With Louise Rose & the Open Door Choir at Our Place leading the audience in a Christmas Carol sing-a-long.
When: Monday, Dec. 12th , 2016, doors 6:30PM, show 7PM
Where: First Met United Church, 932 Balmoral Rd
Admission: Tickets $17.50, children $5.
Santa Scoot
What: Come and see Santa ride a scooter! A parade of Vespas and vintage scooters will make their way through city streets collecting donations, then rally at Market Square for a pizza party. One dollar from every pizza sold at Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria will go to charity. There will be lots of prizes and surprises. Come see the bikes and enjoy a pizza.
When: Saturday, Dec 17, 2016, 1PM–4PM
Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street
Horse & Carriage Rides in Sidney
What: Enjoy a festive horse-drawn carriage tour around Sidney!
When: Saturday Dec 17 – Sunday Dec 18, 11AM-3PM
Where: Pick up on First Street outside the Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites (across from Fairway Markets).
Admission: $30 per carriage, seats six, 20 minute tour. Please call for reservations: 250-883-3651
Winter Wonderland in Centennial Square
What: New this year – come and get cozy in Centennial Square’s Winter Wonderland. Grab a festive drink in the Centennial Inn or grab a bite to eat from one of Victoria’s delicious food trucks. Live music and lots of holiday cheer for the entire family! Do not forget to take a well-earned rest from all the Christmas shopping on the Ferris Wheel.
When: Dec 17, 22, 23 noon-9PM; Fri, Dec 18 – Mon, Dec 21, noon-8PM
Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria
Breakfast with Santa – Metchosin
What: Come to the Metchosin Fire Department for a pancake breakfast with Santa – hot coffee/tea, hot chocolate and kids crafts – and don’t forget a picture and visit with the Big Guy himself! If someone you know is unable to get out to visit with Santa – please let the fire fighters know – they can make special arrangement to get Santa to them! “No one goes without a visit from Santa here in Metchosin!”
When: Sunday, December 18, 2016, 9AM–1PM
Where: Metchosin Fire Hall, 4440 Happy Valley Rd
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