Happy Thursday, Victoria!
Whether you’re still after Santa photos, looking for a new bar to check out or wish to satisfy your educational curiosity, we’ve got something for you.
If you’re not looking for a late night, Gigi’s Writers Open Mic is a great way to stay connected to the literary community or enter into it!
Here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Thursday, December 5th:
Butchart Gardens Christmas Lights
Starting December 2nd, Magic of Christmas hours at the Butchart Gardens run daily from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., giving everyone the chance to experience the wonder through early January.
This cherished annual tradition transforms Victoria’s most iconic attraction into a winter wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights, lush greenery, and festive music filling the gardens.
General admission tickets are $37 and can be purchased here.
- Where: The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Avenue
- When: Thursday, December 5th from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Pop-up Santa Photos at Tillicum Centre
Tillicum Centre wanted to give back to the community by offering by-donation Santa photos.
Pay what you feel is right and hop on next to Santa. The photos will be printed on-site by Four Frames Photobooth, so you can take it home with you.
To ensure they can get to as many as possible, a reservation is required to secure your time slot.
- Where: Tillicum Centre, 3170 Tillicum Road
- When: Thursday, December 5th from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Artemis Whiskey Bar
This whiskey bar is an experience in and of itself—not are there a multitude of whiskey options, the atmosphere has been specifically curated to match their space theme and whimsical vibes.
As described on their website, it’s riddled with superstition, divination and charms, and is sure to offer a magical space for you and your friends.
They also offer a selection of cocktails with spirits such as gin, mezcal, and vodka.
- Where: Artemis Whiskey Bar, 560 Johnson Street
- When: Thursday, December 5th from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Writers’ Open Mic
Head down to Gigi’s Cafe for an evening of inspiration, creativity, hard-hitting lines, and more at their Open Mic for writers.
If you’re feeling brave, come with your writing and present it to an audience within a 10 minute time-slot.
Everyone is happy to listen to whatever you have—be it poetry, fiction, or nonfiction!
Their kitchen and coffee bar will be open, so you can enjoy some delicious refreshments while you listen!
Email info@gigiscafe.ca ahead to reserve your own timeslot.
- Where: Gigi’s Cafe, 1002 Hillside Avenue
- When: Thursday, December 5th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Dino Labs Inc.
Dino Lab Inc. is a high-tech, low-tech, all fun fossil restoration lab right in Victoria!
You can organize your own trip to take a look at their private gallery and prep lab to get a taste of what these incredibly dedicated individuals get up to.
It’s perfect for anyone wishing to learn more about the ancient beings that roamed before us—they even offer junior programs!
Prices will vary depending on the kind of tour you would like, but regular tours start at $40 and can be booked here.
- Where: Dino Labs Inc., 43 & 45 Erie Street Unit #100
- When: Thursday, December 5th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
