Time to hang up that business attire and let loose for the weekend, Victoria!
Despite the cooler weather, there’s plenty of exciting things to do around the city, and if you’re alright with a little rain, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities.
Gather your loved ones and take a stroll through Sidney’s Sidewalk Sale, check out Langford’s car show, catch a Pacific FC game, attend Vancouver Island’s biggest craft beer festival, and much more.
Plus, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds are doing another aerial show in Nanaimo if you happen to find yourself up island!
For all of this and more, here’s 11 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend—August 16th and 17th:
World of Art
Join the Pacific Arts Market for their weekend-long World of Art fair, featuring a lineup of BC’s most talented artists, makers and creators.
This immersive art fair takes place in Duncan, and will also present attendees with live cultural performances, giveaways throughout the day and more.
Some of the performers include the Tzinquaw Dancers, Vesna Ukrainian Dancers, Fusion CHIBCHA, Maple Leaf Ballet and many others.
Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and connection!
This event is free to attend.
.png)
- Where: Cowichan Community Centre, 2687 James Street, Duncan
- When:
- Saturday, August 16th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, August 17th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Snowbirds in Nanaimo
If you find yourself in Nanaimo on Saturday, the Snowbirds are returning for another air show!
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are back, and they’ll be giving viewers a jaw-dropping show of aerial magic over Nanaimo’s Harbour.
The nine jets will twist, roll and loop in perfect harmony, all to a set soundtrack! Head down to Maffeo Sutton Park for an epic view.
- Where: Maffeo Sutton Park, 100 Comox Road, Nanaimo
- When: Saturday, August 16th from 4:15 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Free-B Film Festival: Matilda
The 26th annual Free-B Film Festival, a series of free outdoor movie screenings, has officially returned!
Rediscover an old childhood favourite, or introduce yourself and friends to a classic gem for the first time—either way, unwind and enjoy the magic of the movies in the fresh air!
Saturday’s screening will feature Matilda.
- Where: Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park, 250 Bridge Way
- When: Saturday, August 16th at 9 p.m.
Sidney Sidewalk Sale
Hosted by Explore Sidney, this free, fun and family-friendly event is happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturday, August 16th.
It features over 55 local shops and businesses partaking in the sale, as well as a day full of activities, live entertainment, and even things like face-painting and a photobooth.
- Where: Beacon Avenue, Sidney
- When: Saturday, August 16th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pacific FC vs. Halifax Wanderers FC
Bring your best cheer and loads of team spirit this Saturday as Victoria’s Pacific FC team faces the Atlético Ottawa team.
Treat yourself to some snacks and beverages while you’re there too to make the most of this afternoon game!
Ticket prices vary by seat selection, but they start at around $30 for general admission.
View this post on Instagram
- Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Parkway
- When: Saturday, August 16th at 3 p.m.
Pacific Rim Community Wellness Event
Pacific Rim is hosting a yoga session in Market Square this Saturday!
In addition to free yoga, you can expect handmade wellness gifts and craft vendors to peruse, healthy and delicious snacks, and lots of socializing.
Celebrate health and well-being with like-minded folks!
- Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street
- When: Saturday, August 16th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
SVA Screening of “E.T.”
Combine your admiration for movies with your need for fresh air on Saturday, August 16th, as the Saanich Fairgrounds hosts a screening of beloved E.T. on their inflatable 40-foot screen.
The gates will open at 6 p.m. for anyone looking for dinner before the movie begins at dusk (8:45 p.m.-ish)! Featuring an amazing lineup of food vendors and concessions lined up.
Food vendors include Greek on the Street, Sean’s Dogs, Peninsula Pizza, Sidney-by-the-Sea Rotary Dole Whip, The Ice Cream Truck, Noel’s Donuts, The Slushie Girl, Berry Sweet, Candy Time and Bretzel’s German Treats.
This event is free to attend, and make sure you come early to save yourself a seat!
- Where: Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton
- When: Saturday, August 16th at 8:45 p.m. (gates open at 6 p.m.)
Cowichan Craft Beer & Food Festival
Now recognized as the largest craft beer festival on Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Craft Beer & Food Festival will take place this Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Doc Lewis Park in Chemainus.
Lucky attendees will be able to try over 30 different breweries with up to 100 (or more) craft beers, alongside delicious eats from local vendors and popular food trucks from across the island.
Some of the food choices will feature Artisan Empanadas, Bite me Cookie Company, Canada Crepe and More, 2 Rae’s Jacks Grilled Cheese, Hot Dog Hustlin, Island Pastry Haus, Phat Bastard Eats, Souls Toast, The Steel Pan, Taco Papi, and more!
Tickets for the Cowichan Craft Beer & Food Festival start at $32 for ‘admission only’ tickets, and $48 for a general admission ticket, which includes five tasting tokens, a tasting glass and a chance to win exciting prizes (on top of admission to the festival).
- Where:
- Main event: Doc Lewis Park, Elm Street, Chemainus
- After Party: The Travel Bar, parked steps away from the main event
- When: Saturday, August 16th
- Main event: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- After Party: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Mayfair Mall’s Summer Block Party
Support local business and celebrate the season in style at Mayfair Mall’s Summer Block Party this Saturday!
It’ll take place on the rooftop, and will feature DJ dance-party music, shopping from over 20 local vendors, a kids’ zone and much more.
It’s free, so bring the whole family and have a great time!
View this post on Instagram
- Where: Mayfair Mall, 3147 Douglas Street
- When: Saturday, August 16th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Langford Show and Shine
Langford’s popular and dazzling 13th annual Show and Shine car show will be taking over Goldstream Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Sunday, August 17th.
It’s a free and family-friendly event that will once again fill the streets with an impressive array of classic cars, unique rides and concept vehicles.
In addition to vehicles to look at, The Langford Station will be buzzing with a bustling market, a kids craft station, food trucks, hands-on activities for all ages, and more.
- Where:
- Goldstream Avenue, Langford
- The Langford Station, 720 Station Avenue
- When: Sunday, August 17th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Salish Sea Lantern Festival: Kick-Off
The 12th annual Salish Sea Lantern Festival is scheduled to return this weekend, beginning on Sunday, the Week of Lanterns will present residents with hands-on opportunities to build their own lanterns.
So, while you’re hard at work with your magical creations, large-scale lantern installations will begin to transform the peninsula with glowing displays throughout the community.
If you’d like to take a look at their full festival lineup and August 23rd’s parade route, you can do so here.
- Where: Throughout Sidney!
- When: Sunday, August 17th to Saturday, August 23rd
💬 Join the conversation
No comments yet — be the first to start the conversation
