Highly-anticipated Ultimate Hobby & Toy Fair returns to Victoria this weekend

We’ve got some good news for the collectors, hobbyists and toy lovers out there!

The iconic Victoria’s Ultimate Hobby & Toy Fair will be returning to the Pearkes Recreation Centre in Victoria for its bi-annual showcase of all things collectible and fun.

This show will transform the venue into a wonderland of toys, hobby activities and collectibles.

The event will take place this weekend on Saturday, May 23rd and Sunday, May 24th.

The fair is a highly-anticipated event for hobbyists and toy enthusiasts in BC, and is expected to bring thousands from across the province to play some games and show off and trade their wares. The event has become a must-visit for anyone hunting rare cards or childhood throwbacks since its inception in 2007.

The Ultimate Hobby & Toy Fair will feature a variety of vendors offering everything a hobbyist looks for in an event of this kind, including Pokémon cards and other trading cards, vintage toys, trains, Barbie dolls, LEGO, video games, Hot Wheels, vinyl records and more.

For serious collectors, this event is one that can’t be missed.

“There is magic and whimsy in these events that happen twice a year,” said Candice Woodward, an organizer of the event.

“We love seeing collectors leave happy after finding that special something, and we love seeing families share memories and have a great time together. There really is something for everyone, including a lot of nostalgia.”

This year, there will be a silent auction in support of the MS Society and BC Children’s Hospital, adding to the weekend’s merit.

The event will also feature Victoria’s LEGO Users Group (VicLUG), as well as balloon creations with Kydo Klowns and Sammy, local food vendors and artists Glen Mullaly and Ahmed Sidky of Monster Machine.

“We have been putting on this Toy Fair for 18 years, and we are forever grateful for the community and volunteers who help make it happen,” said B. Woodward, another one of the event’s organizers.

“Thanks to everyone’s support, we have helped raise over $73,000 for local charities over the years. It feels good to give back.”

General admission to the fair is only $5 per day and $10 for a weekend pass, and admission includes a door prize entry. And heads up, those wearing a costume get an extra entry to the competition! Children under 12 get in free with an adult.

For the serious collectors, there is a $15 Early Bird ticket that allows early entry to the event on Saturday and includes entry for the whole weekend.

If you’re serious about your collectibles, are looking for your next big Pokémon score or just want to experience a fun weekend filled with good people, get down to the Pearkes Recreation Centre this weekend!

Victoria’s Ultimate Hobby & Toy Fair

• Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Road
• When: 
  • Saturday, May 23rd – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Early Bird Entry 8 a.m.)
  • Sunday, May 24th – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.