5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, June 18th

Canadian World Cup action is back this Thursday!

Watch Team Canada take on Qatar at Market Square, surrounded by friends and community.

If the World Cup isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other events going on as well. From the Esquimalt Farmers Market to a hip-hop show at one of Victoria’s favourite venues, there’s something going on for everyone!

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, June 18th:

Canada versus Qatar World Cup match at Market Square

Visit Market Square to catch the games on the big screen!

A family-friendly, outdoor event offering food and beverage service, including locally produced beer!

Head down and watch alongside friends and community in the heart of downtown.

The World Cup viewings are free and everyone is welcome to attend. These events are a part of the DVBA’s Summer of Soccer Series.

• Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street
• When: Thursday, June 18th – 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Petty Boy Osley – Halfway Home Tour at Lucky Bar

Canadian alternative hip-hop artist Petty Boy Osley returns to British Columbia following a sold-out hometown headline show for a special one-night performance in Victoria.

After spending the past year touring and performing festivals across Europe, the Canadian artist brings his internationally developed live show back home for an intimate night.

With millions of accumulated streams, Petty Boy Osley has built a loyal global following through his blend of alternative hip-hop, emo rap and cinematic production.

His music combines dark melodic textures, heavy 808s and emotionally driven songwriting that resonates with fans.

Known for his high-energy performances and immersive stage presence, Petty Boy Osley has spent years building momentum through independent releases, international touring and a rapidly expanding catalog.

His shows transform intimate venues into powerful shared experiences between artist and audience.

This performance offers a chance to catch the artist as he returns to Canada with new music and a renewed live set following his European run.

Tickets start at $25 (although there is a $15 ‘I’m broke but wanna go’ option as well). Purchase yours here.

• Where: Lucky Bar, 517 Yates Street
• When: Thursday, June 18th – 9:30 p.m.

Esquimalt Farmers Market

This food-first market is a foodie’s dream!

Peruse an amazing selection of local businesses, pick up a delicious dinner from a hot food vendor and enjoy twice nightly musical performances while the kids run wild in the onsite playground.

In addition to food, there will be a fantastic selection of artisans and crafters yielding everything from soap to hand-printed tea towels, clothing, jewellery and more.

The weekly vendor map will be posted on the Esquimalt Market website so you can see who will be there each week and plan your trips.

Parking is limited at this location so organizers recommend walking, using transit (#15 or #26 bus) or riding your bicycle.

• Where: Memorial Park, 1200 Esquimalt Road
• When: Thursday, June 18th – 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

John Butler Band at the McPherson Playhouse

Catch the John Butler Band at the McPherson Playhouse!

Following the triumphant release of his latest album Prism, musical revolutionary John Butler is returning to the US and Canada with his band for a spring tour of epic proportions.

Forming a ferocious new band including original JBT drummer Michael Barker, Ian Peres on bass/keys and Michael Boase on percussion, these shows promise to be packed with the classics, groove-laden jams and Butler’s signature instrumental flourishes—a full two hours plus of sheer John Butler band power.

Butler and his band will do what they do best, taking the audience through alt-rock explosions, heartfelt ballads and anthemic pop choruses, building on John’s legacy as one of the most revered live acts of his generation.

Remaining tickets start at $74 and can be purchased here.

• Where: The McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
• When: Thursday, June 18th – 8 p.m.

Harold Night with Garden City Improv

Join Garden City Improv for The Harold—improv’s high wire act.

Watch it performed by some of Victoria’s funniest improvisers!

Enjoy an evening of long-form improv comedy, with hilarious characters and interwoven stories, all inspired by a single audience suggestion!

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.

• Where: Theatre SKAM, 849 Fort Street
• When: Thursday, June 18th – 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.