Step into the timeless magic of the holidays at Victoria’s iconic Fairmont Empress, where cozy fires, sparkling décor, and festive traditions come together and create lasting memories.
With beloved traditions returning—including the Christmas Day Buffet, Festive Veranda, and the ‘Meet Me Under the Mistletoe’ contest—the Empress is the ultimate destination for celebrating the holiday season in style.
Begin your winter adventure at the charming Festive Veranda, where warm fire pits invite you to toast to the holiday season with seasonal beverages from the Q Bar, roast marshmallows, and savour cheese or chocolate fondue.
For couples looking to create a truly magical memory, wander hand-in-hand to the Fairmont Empress’s Mistletoe Magic, an enchanting display of twinkling lights and mistletoe that sets the perfect romantic scene.
And, make the moment even more special by participating in their ‘Meet Under the Mistletoe’ contest where you could win Afternoon Tea or a Festive Veranda Experience for two.
To enter, all you need to do is publicly post your photo on Instagram or Facebook, tag the hotel (@fairmontempress), and add #MistletoeMoments to your caption.
Once you’ve captured memories under the mistletoe, indulge in Festive Afternoon Tea in the historic Lobby Lounge.
This timeless tradition offers sweet and savoury bites, like Grandfather Ham Éclairs and Chestnut & Rum Cremieux, crafted by talented chefs, paired with expertly selected teas, all served with a seasonal twist for $109 per person.
And, don’t forget about the little ones! Young guests can enjoy afternoon tea fit for royalty with the Children’s Festive Royal Tea, priced at $70 per person.
This experience offers child-friendly teas and treats—think delicate finger sandwiches and a delightful spread of cookies, cupcakes, and cake pops—all served in a luxurious setting that’s fun for the whole family.
As Christmas Eve rolls around, there’s no better way to kick off the holidays than with a festive feast—and luckily, the Fairmont Empress has plenty of dining options to choose from.
Celebrate a delicious Christmas Eve Dinner in the Q at the Empress, where an elegant four-course dining experience complete with optional wine pairings and a festive ambience that sets the perfect holiday mood.
Bookings are available from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and are $239 per adult. This option is also available on Christmas Day from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.!
On Christmas Day, relax and let the Fairmont Empress take the stress out of holiday cooking.
Choose from their lavish Christmas Day Buffet in the grand Crystal Ballroom or opt for an intimate four-course dinner in the Q at the Empress.
The buffet is filled with all of your holiday favourites, alongside fresh seafood dishes and chef-attended carving stations, blending nostalgia and fine cuisine for the ultimate holiday feast.
Seatings are available at 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. for $279 per adult and $70 per child (six to 12 years old), so make sure to secure your spot!
If you crave a quieter day, bring the taste of the holidays home with their Festive Turkey to Go.
This mouth-watering turkey dinner, prepared by the Empress’s culinary experts, is prepared with all the staple fixings, and the perfect meal to enjoy from the comforts of your own home!
Priced at $599 plus taxes, each meal serves 10 people, making it ideal for family gatherings.
Orders must be placed by 12 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20th, so you can pick up December 24th or 25th from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Whichever dining option you choose, it’s bound to be your most delicious Christmas yet!
From festive drinks and treats to magical experiences for the entire family, the Fairmont Empress promises a holiday season filled with timeless elegance, cherished traditions, and memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
Book early to experience some of Victoria’s most beloved holiday traditions firsthand.
Holiday Experiences at the Fairmont Empress
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- Where: Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St
- When: Times and dates vary depending on experience
- Festive Veranda:
- November 28th to December 19th – Friday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- December 20th to January 3rd – Open daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Festive Afternoon Tea & Children’s Festive Royal Tea:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Friday to Sunday – 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Christmas Eve and Day Dinner at the Q
- December 24th – 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- December 25th – 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Christmas Day Buffet
- December 25th – Seating available at 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
- Festive Veranda:
