5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, July 9th

The weekend approaches, Victoria!

As we get ready for an exciting weekend full of Pride events and the legendary Philips Backyard Festival, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite things happening around town to get the fun started a little early.

Whether you want to start your Pride celebrations ahead of time with Pride-a-Licious at the Vicious Poodle, catch some live music at Willows Beach Park, The Westshore Town Centre or the Capital Ballroom or do some shopping at the Sidney Street Market, there’s something for everyone to get out and about this Thursday!

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, July 9th:

Oak Bay Concerts in the Park – Daniel Cook & the Radiators at Willows Beach Park 

Experience unforgettable summer nights at Willows Beach, where live music, ocean views and community spirit come together!

This week, the main act is Daniel Cook & the Radiators.

This seasoned band blends finger-style folk, bass-driven funk, tender ballads, reggae and rock, all rooted in country vibes.

Kele Fleming, who is the opener for the night, gracefully weaves the vulnerability of traditional folk with the raw power of rock and roll.

These concerts are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

• Where: Willows Beach Park, Oak Bay
• When: Thursday, July 9th – 6 p.m.

Pride-a-Licious at the Vicious Poodle

Gay AF Comedy is serving big gay laughs for Pride! An LGBT focused comedy variety show in a queer owned space—let’s get fabulous!

Gay AF Comedy is the Inspire Award winner for Queer Positive Business of the Year, and they’re bringing that positive energy to The Vicious Poodle for a stellar queer comedy pride week event!

Featuring TikTok sensation Nico Marchant, an extended stand-up set by Victoria homegrown fave Julya Van Der Sloot and headlined by Canadian Comedy Award winner and Victoria’s prodigal gay son Robert Watson.

Hosted by drag queen extraordinaire Lilith Cain.

Gay AF always puts on a great show, grab your friends (with consent) and join the funny!

Tickets for the show are $23 and can be purchased here.

• Where: The Vicious Poodle, 726 Johnson Street
• When: Thursday, July 9th – 7:30 p.m.

The Sidney Street Market

The Sidney Street Market is one of Vancouver Island’s favourite summer traditions, transforming downtown Sidney into a lively outdoor marketplace every Thursday evening.

From June through September, Beacon Avenue fills with local vendors, live music, delicious food and a welcoming community atmosphere.

As a result, thousands of residents and visitors gather each week to experience one of the Peninsula’s most popular events.

Every week, more than 200 vendors, artisans, growers, makers and food producers line Beacon Avenue with an incredible selection of handcrafted goods, artwork, jewellery, clothing, home décor, fresh produce and specialty foods.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or treating yourself to something special, you’ll always discover something new. At the same time, every purchase supports local businesses from Sidney and across Vancouver Island.

Throughout the evening, live musicians and entertainers will also create a festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

Meanwhile, food vendors, cafés, restaurants, breweries and waterfront patios offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy dinner or a sweet treat.

Attendance is free, and everyone is welcome to attend the market.

Also check out Swingin’ in the Bandshell at Beacon Park from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. while you’re out in Sidney!

• Where: Beacon Avenue, Sidney
• When: Thursday, July 9th – 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Save Ferris at the Capital Ballroom

Head down to the Capital Ballroom and catch Save Ferris!

Save Ferris is an American ska punk band lead by the legendary front-woman Monique Powell.

The opening act is local three-piece band The Poubelles.

This show is bound to be a riot!

Tickets are $28.50 plus fees and can be purchased here.

• Where: The Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street
• When: Thursday, July 9th – 9 p.m.

An & Ben at the Westshore Town Centre Summer Music Series

The Westshore Town Centre’s Summer Music Series is here!

This will be the third of the series, with An & Ben performing some Angelic harmonies and acoustic songs.

These events are going to be happening every Thursday evening at the Westshore Town Centre, on the pathway behind the RBC.

Soak up some summer atmosphere and grab some take-out from one of the many local restaurants!

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

• Where: Westshore Town Centre, 2945 Jacklin Road – in the pathway behind RBC.
• When: Thursday, July 9th – 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.