If you’ve yet to dive into the holiday spirit, we might have the solution for you, Victoria!
There are plenty of ways to ring in the season, but with so much going on, sometimes it can feel a little overwhelming.
We’ve created a comprehensive and quick list of some holiday activities and must-tries for you to pick and choose depending on your social battery, shopping needs, and preferences.
Scroll through a list of holiday markets happening in and around Victoria throughout December, take yourself on festive culinary adventures, book your photos with Santa, attend a Christmas brunch and much, much more.
Without further delay, Happy Holidays, and here’s a list of things to get you in the holiday mood:
Check out a Holiday Market
The festive season is officially in full swing, and the buzz around Christmas markets, craft nights, unique gift ideas, cozy holiday drinks, and more is all over social media. We don’t know about you, but we’re ready to dive into the holiday fun.
If you haven’t already heard, there are tons of amazing markets happening around Victoria, featuring everything from artisanal goods and homemade treats to beautiful local art and much more.
We get it, though—keeping track of them all can be tricky. Which market was where again? How much does it cost to get in?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together a handy guide to some of the best holiday markets in and around Victoria.
Full article: 18 holiday markets in and around Victoria for all of your shopping needs
Book Your Santa Photos
Nothing rounds out the holiday season quite like taking a classic photo with Santa Claus!
With Christmas just around the corner, Ol’ Saint Nick is coming to town and he’s looking to spread the holiday cheer.
Rally up your family and friends and create long-lasting memories and cherished moments—moments that you’ll proudly be able to display on your mantle or wall!
If you’re looking to catch a glimpse of Santa, we’ve put together 6 places in and around Victoria you’ll be able to find him.
Full article: 6 places in and around Victoria to get your photos taken with Santa
Santa Sips at the Fairmont Empress
If you’re looking for a whimsical night-life atmosphere, the Fairmont Empress invites you to explore their festive take on Sunset Sips!
This cocktail and culinary experience takes on a magical holiday twist, with festive cocktails served in their signature translucent glass teapots.
The accompanying food menu is also tailored to the holiday season!
It kicked off on November 29th and will run every Friday and Saturday. From December 20th to December 30th, this service will then be offered daily.
Check out their full list of wonderful festive events here.
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- Where: The Fairmont Empress, 721 Government Street
- When: Kicked off November 29th and runs until December 30th—book your table here.
Lights of Wonder
The Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) has officially kicked off their Lights of Wonder experience in Centennial Square!
The square is now beautifully illuminated, making it the perfect spot for a family outing. So grab the kids, bundle up, and come enjoy the festive lights that will brighten up your evening!
Come prepared with a warm beverage to add to the holiday magic.
- Where: Lights of Wonder, 1 Centennial Square
- When: Kicked off on Saturday, November 30th and will remain up until Tuesday, December 31st
Off the Eaten Track: Christmas Edition
Get ready to indulge in the spirit of the season with Off The Eaten Track’s popular Cozy Christmas Food Tour, which kicked off November 21st!
This festive 2-hour walking tour promises to be a delightful journey through downtown Victoria, featuring seven delicious stops and an array of holiday-inspired treats.
Tickets must be booked in advance, and are priced at $80 for adults and $70 for youth (18 and under) and seniors (65+), and include all food, beverages, and exclusive discounts at local businesses.
- Where: The tour kicks off at the Off The Eaten Track gift shop in the Steamship Terminal Building
- When: Wednesdays to Sundays at both 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. throughout the holiday season
16th Annual Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Showcase
As of Friday, November 22nd, the 16th annual Gingerbread Showcase is open to the public, promising a delightful blend of family fun, creativity, and community spirit.
Presented by Habitat for Humanity Victoria, in partnership with Peninsula Co-op, and hosted by the Hotel Grand Pacific, this beloved event is back and awaits your curious eyes!
This year’s theme is “Through a Child’s Eyes,” which is bound to bring out the best in our local bakers and give everyone a peek into the minds of the artists.
Admission to the showcase is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation when voting for their favorite gingerbread house.
All proceeds will go towards Habitat for Humanity’s mission of providing affordable housing in the community.
- Where: Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville Street
- When: Kicked off on Friday November 22nd and runs until January 5th, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Festival of Trees Victoria
The Festival of Trees has been a beloved holiday tradition on Vancouver Island for over 30 years, celebrating community support for BC Children’s Hospital with beautifully decorated trees.
This year’s event will feature up to 100 sponsored trees, and they’ll remain on display from November 15th to January 5th.
The Bay Centre invites the community to enjoy the display, vote for their favorite trees, and help raise vital funds for BC’s children!
- Where: The Bay Centre, 1150 Douglas Street
- When: Kicked off on Friday, November 15th and runs until January 5th
Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
The iconic historic site is once again transforming into a winter wonderland, decked out in traditional holiday decorations that capture the spirit of a Victorian Christmas.
From December 1st, visitors can experience a range of exciting events throughout the month, making it the perfect destination to celebrate the season—starting with Museum Store Sunday.
Museum Store Sunday provides visitors around the world the opportunity to support their local museum and cultural institution shops at the beginning of the holiday shopping season.
Find unique gifts from local artisans, take part in product launches, prize draws, special book signings from local authors, and a 10% discount on store items!
- Where: Craigdarroch Castle, 1050 Joan Crescent
- When: Starting December 1st and throughout the holiday season
Sidney Sparkles Holiday Parade & Polar Bear Dip
Get ready for the festive season to officially take over Sidney with their much-anticipated Sparkles Holiday Parade!
It will take place on December 8th at 5 p.m., taking over Beacon Avenue—the heart of downtown Sidney.
Hosted by the Peninsula Celebrations Society, the event promises to be a dazzling display of holiday cheer, complete with Christmas lights, festive floats, lively music, dancing, and, of course, a special visit from Santa Claus himself!
If you’re hooked on festive fun after the parade, then join the Peninsula Celebration Society at their second event: the annual Polar Bear Dip at Glass Beach, scheduled for January 1st, at 12 p.m.
- Where:
- Parade: Downtown Sidney!
- Polar Bear Dip: Glass Beach, 2533 Beacon Avenue West, Sidney
- When:
- Parade: Sunday, December 8th at 5 p.m.
- Polar Bear Dip: Wednesday, January 1st at 12 p.m.
CCPA Sense & Sensibility
The Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA) invites audiences to fall in love once more with Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility, brought to life by an all-star cast of second-year students.
This charming and witty adaptation by Canadian playwright Michelle Deines runs from Thursday, December 12th to Sunday, December 15th, offering five performances of this timeless tale of love, loyalty, and longing.
Award-winning director and CCPA faculty member, Barbara Poggemiller, is at the helm of this production, and she’s thrilled to present a fresh take on the classic.
Tickets are $30 for an adult, $28 for seniors, and $25 for those under 30-years-old.
- Where: CCPA Performance Hall, 1701 Elgin Road
- When: Thursday, December 12th to Sunday, December 15th—showtimes vary
46th Annual Tuba Christmas
No one can deny the power and beauty behind the mighty tuba instrument—now imagine what experiencing around 100 or more playing at once must be like!
The beloved 46th annual Tuba Christmas event will take place at Market Square this Saturday, December 14th at 1 p.m., conducted by Scott MacInnes.
The group is made up of tubas and the family of instruments, including euphoniums, baritones and potentially Sousaphones and helicons.
Donations will be accepted for the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, a charity that assists the people most in need in the Greater-Victoria community.
- Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street
- When: Saturday, December 14th at 1 p.m.
Calm & Bright: Morning Yoga Mini-Retreat at Sea Cider
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating 2-hour yoga and mindfulness experience at the stunning Sea Cider on Saturday, December 14th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.!
This peaceful retreat offers a unique opportunity to relax, reflect, and connect with both yourself and others in the serene surroundings of the cider house.
Monique Sekhon, who was trained in Tofino with renowned instructor Randelle Lusk, will guide you through this nurturing session!
Tickets are $65 and can be purchased here, and includes a glass of mulled cider and a gift!
- Where: Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, 2487 Mt St Michael Road, Saanichton
- When: Saturday, December 14th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The Courtney Room: Brunch with Santa
Not only will you get to meet the Big Man himself, but you’ll also have the opportunity to capture your best family photo yet and enjoy a two-course brunch meal.
So, bring the whole family down to the Courtney Room on Sunday, December 15th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and savour this unique opportunity!
Highlighted menu items include assorted pastries, antipasti, fresh seafood, chocolate french toast, eggs benedict and much more.
Tickets cost $90 for adults and $40 for children 12 and under, and includes coffee, tea or juice—purchase your tickets via Eventbrite.
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- Where: The Courtney Room, 619 Courtney Street
- When: Sunday, December 15th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
A WONDERHEADS Christmas Carol
This December, get ready for a holiday performance like no other as A WONDERHEADS Christmas Carol returns to Victoria from December 18th to 21st at the McPherson Playhouse.
The acclaimed theatrical group WONDERHEADS, known for their breathtaking visual storytelling, will reimagine Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale with a magical twist—giant, whimsical 10-feet tall puppets, and inventive theatrics that are sure to delight audiences of all ages.
And it’s all done without dialogue! How’s that for creativity?
Ticket prices will vary by seat selection, but they start at $40 and can be purchased here.
- Where: McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
- When: Wednesday, December 18th to Saturday, December 21st—showtimes vary
Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas Concert
Lapp’s Home for Christmas, presented by the Victoria Conservatory of Music, is returning for its 21st year, and will light up the Royal Theatre in Victoria on Wednesday, December 18th and Thursday, December 19th.
Round up your loved ones and celebrate the joyous season together with toe-tapping tunes, festive cheer and heartwarming musical performances.
Led by Lapp, the renowned musician, teacher, and local impresario, the concert brings together his legendary ensembles: the BC Fiddle Orchestra, Folkestra!, and the Joy of Life Choir.
Ticket prices for this event depend on seat selection, but they start at $24.50 and can be purchased here.
- Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
- When: Wednesday, December 18th and Thursday, December 19th at 7:30 p.m.
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