Victoria Day Parade returns for May long weekend with new route

The Victoria Day Parade returns this weekend but will have an entirely new route, similar to that of the Christmas Parade.

Taking place in downtown Victoria this May long weekend, this year will mark the 126th time this cherished parade will take place, and this year will feature a new route.

On Monday, May 18th, starting at 9 a.m., the parade will begin its new route on the corner of Belleville and Government Streets.

The parade will proceed down Government to Wharf Street, up Johnson Street, back along Government, before ending on Chatham Street.

The parade’s distance is significantly reduced this year, down to 1.6 kilometres from four kilometres in previous years.

This shortened route is a result of mounting financial pressure and additional safety regulations put in place by the Province and the City around parades this year in response to last year’s Lapu Lapu Day block party tragedy.

This route will be a familiar one for Victoria parade enthusiasts, having been tested by the Pride Parade in July 2025 and the Santa Clause Parade in November and several parades already in 2026.

While operating on a shorter route, the parade will continue to showcase the city’s diverse culture and various community partners. It will feature floats, bands and various cultural showcases.

The parade will be led by the “Victoria Mile,” raising funds for the Parkinson Wellness Group in Victoria.

In 2025, the annual event brought thousands of spectators and raised $73,400 for the Parkinson Wellness Group, and organizers are aiming for $100,000 this time around.

Organizers of the event have said that they don’t know what the future holds for this beloved parade, but are committed to doing everything they can to continue to support Victoria celebrations as much as possible.

Get down to the Victoria Day Parade this year and support your community!

For more information on the parade, visit the Greater Victoria Festival Society’s website here.

Thrifty Foods Victoria Day Parade

• Where: Starting at Belleville Street and Government Street to Wharf Street, up Johnson Street, then back along up to Government Street before ending on Chatham Street
• When: Monday, May 18th – 9 a.m.