Happy weekend, Victoria!
Whether you’re ready to dive into the holiday magic or look for something a little less festive, the city is buzzing with activities for every kind of weekend mood.
From dazzling light-ups to even a flamingo’s 50th birthday party, there’s no shortage of ways to make memories.
Here are 13 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend:
The Tree Light Up and Holiday Show at Uptown
Join in on the tradition of Uptown’s annual Tree Light Up and Holiday Show on Saturday, November 22nd.
With festive activities starting at 4 p.m., live music, dance performances, and more, there’s fun to be had for the whole family!
Don’t miss Santa make his grand appearance and light the 54-foot-tall Christmas tree, marking the official start to Victoria’s holiday season!
- Where: Uptown Shopping Centre, 3440 Saanich Road
- When: Saturday, November 22nd – 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Admission: Free
Mango the Flamingo’s 50th Birthday Party
You’re invited to one of the most fabulous birthday parties of the year!
Head over to the tropical oasis of the Victoria Butterfly Gardens and join the flock to celebrate an incredible milestone–Mango the Flamingo is turning 50!
With delicious cupcakes from Ooh La La Cupcakes, colourful face painting fun, flamingo-themed crafts, hot coffee from Level Ground Coffee, and even an educational meet-and-greet with Mango’s keeper, this is a party you won’t want to miss.
Admission to the Gardens is required to join the celebration. Get your tickets here.
- Where: Victoria Butterfly Garden, 1461 Benvenuto Avenue
- When: Saturday, November 22nd – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Frosted Family Fun
Step into a world of wonder with Kaleidoscope Theatre!
Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy storytelling, dress-up, games, and festive family entertainment.
Registration is free and walk-ins are welcome!
- Where: Tillicum Centre, 3170 Tillicum Road
- When: Saturday, November 22nd & Sunday, November 23rd – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Magic of Christmas Artisan Market
Come for a weekend of holiday shopping at the 11th annual Magic of Christmas Artisan Market!
With over 130 handmade artisans, this is the perfect place to find gifts for everyone on your list.
Admission is $3, payable by cash or card, and kids under 12 are free!
- Where: Eagle Ridge Centre, 1089 Langford Parkway
- When: Saturday, November 22nd to Sunday, November 23rd – hours vary
- Saturday, November 22nd – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, November 23rd – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
West Coast Winter Market
Bring your family and friends for great food, music, local vendors, and a lovely community vibe at Oaklands West Coast Winter Market!
With over 80 local vendors, there will be handmade art, jewelry, and crafts available for purchase, as well as four food trucks.
The Gift of Good Food Fundraiser will be on site at the market, and a 50/50 raffle will take place.
Head on over to do some holiday shopping while making a big difference!
- Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Avenue
- When: Saturday, November 22nd – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Festival of Trees Victoria
The Bay Centre’s annual Festival of Trees is back!
From decorated Christmas trees to twinkling lights hanging overhead, stepping into the Bay Centre suddenly becomes walking into a winter wonderland.
Each tree, sponsored by a local business, is uniquely decorated to reflect its sponsor’s brand and personality.
This beloved tradition also allows these organizations to give back.
All tree sponsorships support the BC Children’s Hospital, helping local organizations make a difference this holiday season.
Head over to the Bay Centre this weekend and see if you can spot our tree!
- Where: Bay Centre Shopping Centre, 1150 Douglas Street
- When: Open until Wednesday, December 31st – During mall hours
Cedar Hill Holiday Market
- Where: Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, 3220 Cedar Hill Road
- When: Saturday, November 22nd – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Yuletide Market Series
Designed as a retail pop-up store, the Yuletide Market Series has a rotating list of vendors, ensuring no two market weekends are the same!
Each weekend market is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., running through to December 21st.
Plus, don’t miss their festive Christmas Night Market, happening from December 15th to 19th, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Hot drinks and food are available for purchase!
- Where: Bilston Creek Farm, 4185 Metchosin Road
- When: November 21st to December 21st – hours vary
Candy Cane Lane Winter Festival
Step into the holiday spirit with a magical weekend at the Candy Cane Lane Winter Festival!
With a Kids Zone, featuring crafts, face painting, hot chocolate, and photos with Santa, as well as local artisans and food vendors, it’s the perfect way to spend a family weekend.
Entry is by donation!
- Where: Saanich Fairgrounds – Indoors Main Hall & RCMP Barn, 1528 Stellys Cross Road
- When: Saturday, November 22nd & Sunday, November 23rd – 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Drag Brunch at the Vicious Poodle
Start your day off right with Drag Brunch at the Vicious Poodle this weekend!
Enjoy some classic brunch menu items while watching some of Victoria’s top drag performers.
- Where: The Vicious Poodle, 726 Johnson Street
- When: Saturday, November 22nd & Sunday, November 23rd – 11 a.m.
Snotty Nose Rez Kids
Snotty Nose Rez Kids are bringing their RED FUTURE TOUR to Victoria at Capital Ballroom, with both GA and VIP tickets now available.
- Where: Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street
- When: Saturday, November 22nd, starts at 8 p.m.
Esquimalt Holiday Market
Looking for the perfect gifts for the foodies?
Head over to the Esquimalt Holiday Market on Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a one-day extravaganza that’s a must-stop for anyone shopping for culinary enthusiasts this holiday season!
And that’s not all—while you shop, there will be live music and tasty bites from curated food trucks for you to enjoy.
- Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street
- When: Sunday, November 23rd – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hillside Night of Lights
Hillside Centre’s beloved Night of Lights returns this Sunday, November 23rd, offering an unforgettable evening of shopping, entertainment, and giving back.
Night of Lights runs from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with $5 tickets that support local charities, including the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and over 55 community organizations.
Guests can enjoy live performances, treats, a Holiday Lounge, prizes—including five $1,000 shopping sprees—plus exclusive in-store deals revealed that evening!
Tickets can be purchased from Hillside Centre Guest Services or from one of the non-profits listed here.
- Where: Hillside Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
- When: Sunday November 23rd – 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
