Victoria’s most iconic spring event is returning—and this year, it’s pulling out all the stops!
On Monday, May 19th, the Thrifty Foods 125th Victoria Day Parade will roll through the heart of downtown, marking a major milestone in the city’s celebration of community and culture.
Kicking off at 9 a.m., with over 100 float entries, the parade will begin at Douglas and Finlayson, continuing down Douglas Street all the way to Courtney Street.
Expect lively crowds, high-energy performances, and a vibrant atmosphere as the capital city comes alive for this beloved annual tradition!
Hosted by the Greater Victoria Festival Society, the Victoria Day Parade is one of the largest parades in Canada, and is renowned for bringing together a dazzling array of floats, marching bands, cultural groups, and performers from across the region and beyond.
“We have over 4,000 participants this year, and our largest number of multicultural performers and organizations which we are thrilled about!” said Kelly Kurta, Executive Director with the Greater Victoria Festival Society.
Kurta mentioned Marshall and Skye from Paw Patrol will be visiting from Toronto, and will be hosting a Meet and Greet following the parade!
Although there will be less US bands this year due to the ongoing trade/tariff tension, six strong groups will remain in the lineup, with 1,200 of the total performers.
This includes the highlighted University of Washington Husky Drumline coming down for both the parade and the Drum Battle at the Parliament Buildings from 12:20 p.m. to 4 p.m.
This year’s 125th edition promises to be a world-class spectacle, featuring returning favourites and new additions to the lineup as the city pulls together to celebrate Victoria Day in true west coast style.
Additionally, in light of the recent attack in Vancouver, this year’s parade is being dedicated to the Filipino community of BC.
Make sure to arrive early, grab your spot along Douglas Street, and take in the sights and sounds of one of the most anticipated events of the year!
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If you’re looking for additional multicultural community fun, Kurta also wanted to mention the One World Cultural Festival, presented by Dodd’s Furniture. It’ll be taking place on Saturday, May 17th from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
There will be all-day cultural performances with great food, vendors, bouncy castles, face paintings and so much more.
125th Victoria Day Parade
- Where: Starts at Douglas and Finlayson to Douglas and Courtney
- When: Monday, May 19th at 9 a.m.
