The holiday magic is officially arriving in downtown Victoria with the highly anticipated return of Lights of Wonder this weekend.
Set to kick off this Saturday, November 30th, at 4 p.m., the event promises to illuminate the heart of Victoria in spectacular fashion.
This year, the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) is aligning the start of the festivities with the beloved Santa Claus Parade, making it the perfect evening to kick off the season’s celebrations.
Lights of Wonder draws tens of thousands to the downtown core each year, turning the streets into a holiday wonderland filled with lights, laughter, and the spirit of the season.
“Downtown Victoria’s unique shops, services, and eateries look forward to welcoming everyone again this holiday season! Lights of Wonder is businesses’ gift to the community – a ‘thank you!’ for all the support Greater Victorians give to downtown. So, finish up your holiday shopping, plan a date night, or take the family out to dinner and make Lights of Wonder part of your holiday celebrations while supporting downtown,” said Jeff Bray, CEO of the DVBA
This year’s event continues to be family-friendly, accessible, and entirely free, inviting everyone to head downtown and celebrate with the community while supporting the local businesses.
Attendees can look forward to a variety of fun activities that cater to all ages and interests. The event will feature an exciting lineup of local entertainers taking the stage, free photobooths, and even performances by Lion Dancers and other dynamic groups.
For those looking to let loose, there will be a silent disco and plenty of opportunities to indulge in tasty treats and warm drinks.
In addition, the DVBA is offering free horse-drawn trolley rides around downtown. These will be available from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, and 21st.
From 5 p.m. on December 7th, BCLC is providing hot chocolate to visitors, while supplies last, with all proceeds going to Victoria Hospitals Foundation.
Canadian Tire is sponsoring the photobooth this year, it will be onsite for free photos on November 30th, and December 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th.
London Drugs is sponsoring the 360 ° camera, it will be onsite for free photos on December 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, 31st.
And most importantly, for the first time since 2016, the DVBA is bringing a Ferris Wheel to Centennial Square from December 20th to 31st, available to ride nightly from 4 p.m., weather permitting.
With so many activities and ways to give back, Lights of Wonder promises to be the must-see holiday event in Victoria.
For the full schedule of events and to plan your visit, be sure to check out lightsofwonder.ca.
