Thursday, January 22, 2026

The ultimate things to do guide to celebrating Canada Day in Greater Victoria this weekend

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This year, Canada Day lands on a Tuesday—but that doesn’t mean you need to limit your celebrations to just the day itself.

Greater Victoria is pulling out all the stops with a full lineup of festivities taking place from Sunday through Tuesday, giving you plenty of options to enjoy the long weekend vibe even without an official stat holiday on Monday.

Whether you’re in the mood for pancake breakfasts, community parades, waterfront fireworks, food trucks, live music, or even a friendly game of drag ball, there’s something happening in almost every corner of the region.

Yes, the traditional fireworks display will light up downtown Victoria again this year, and with dozens of other family-friendly activities throughout the area, there’s no shortage of ways to show your Canadian pride.

Here are some of the biggest and best events to check out this Canada Day:

Victoria’s Canada Day Celebration at Inner Harbour

Victoria’s official Canada Day celebration returns to the Inner Harbour with a full day of programming. The main stage will feature artists like Delhi 2 Dublin, Blue Moon Marquee, JAXXEE, and Tk the Artist. Enjoy multicultural food trucks, a vibrant busker stage at Ship Point, and a fireworks show to end the night.

  • Where: Inner Harbour and Legislative Precinct, Victoria
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 11 a.m. to late evening

Gorge Canada Day Picnic

This beloved community tradition spans the entire length of Gorge Road West with over 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, and free family fun. Start the day with a pancake breakfast, decorate bikes for the family parade, and enjoy canoe rides, a car show, kids’ zone, and strawberry tea.

  • Where: Gorge Road West (from Tillicum to Admirals)
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sidney Days and Canada Day Fireworks

Celebrate the evening before Canada Day in Sidney with live music, food trucks, and fireworks over the water. The Heels take the stage, and the event offers a more relaxed way to ease into the big day.

  • Where: Beacon Park, Sidney
  • When: Monday, June 30th, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Sidney Canada Day Parade and Family Fun Fair

The festivities continue in Sidney with a community parade along Beacon Avenue, followed by a Family Fun Fair in Iroquois Park. Expect face painting, local vendors, games, food, and lots of activities for the little ones.

  • Where: Beacon Avenue & Iroquois Park, Sidney
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Canada Day at Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse

Step back in time while celebrating Canada Day at one of the region’s most scenic historic sites. Enjoy live music, heritage-themed activities, interpretive programs, and even heritage-style ice cream and soda.

  • Where: Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site, Colwood
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sooke Canada Day Celebration

Sooke is bringing the party to Fred Milne Park with a full day of family fun. There’s a downtown parade at 11:30 a.m., followed by a festival packed with magic shows, karaoke, food trucks, bouncy castles, a dunk tank, and more. Shuttle buses will be running from SEAPARC and Edward Milne School.

  • Where: Fred Milne Park, 2249 Sooke River Road
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Victoria HarbourCats Canada Day Fireworks Game

Head to Royal Athletic Park to watch the HarbourCats take on the Redmond Dudes, then stick around after the game for a spectacular fireworks display. It’s baseball with a bang, and perfect for families and fans alike.

  • Where: Royal Athletic Park, 1014 Caledonia Avenue, Victoria
  • When: Monday, June 30th, game at 6:35 p.m., fireworks post-game

Canada Day Pancake Breakfast at Huntingdon Manor

Start your Canada Day bright and early with a pancake breakfast hosted by Huntingdon Manor. With entertainment, face painting, and a vintage photo booth, it’s a great morning option for families before heading to the Inner Harbour festivities.

  • Where: Huntingdon Manor Hotel, 330 Quebec Street, Victoria
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Canada Day Foodie Walking Tour

Take your taste buds on a journey through iconic Canadian foods with this guided walking tour. Sample bannock, poutine, Nanaimo bars, and more across seven stops in downtown Victoria.

  • Where: Downtown Victoria (starting location provided upon booking)
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Canada Day Drumming at Legislature Grounds

Join this unique drumming celebration that unites Canadians coast-to-coast with synchronized rhythm. Bring a pot, pan, or drum and be part of this joyful tradition.

  • Where: BC Legislature Grounds, Victoria
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, at 11 a.m.

Memorial Drag Ball Game & Picnic

This all-ages drag ball game has become a local tradition, combining sport, performance, and community in the most fabulous way possible. Bring a picnic and enjoy the show.

  • Where: Vic West Park, Wilson Street, Victoria
  • When: Tuesday, July 1st, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Early Canada Day BBQ at Monterey Recreation Centre

Celebrate a day early with a casual BBQ in Oak Bay, perfect for seniors and those looking to kick off their week with some grilled goodies and neighbourly cheer.

  • Where: Monterey Recreation Centre, 1442 Monterey Avenue, Oak Bay
  • When: Monday, June 30th, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

 

We’re still adding events to this list, so check back often! Got something to add? Send the details to tips@victoriabuzz.com.

Mike Kelly
Mike Kelly
Founder of Victoria Buzz, Vancouver Island's fastest-growing local media outlet. Father of three girls who are dedicated Victoria Royals fans. Let's talk hockey!
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