The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) has some good news for the city’s procrastinators and scatterbrains.
Overdue fines will officially be a thing of the past at VIRL branches in 2023.
In a media release, VIRL says it has permanently removed late fees on all adult materials, after previously waiving fines on young adult and children’s items.
“This decision from our Board means more families will have access to reading and educational materials, more seniors will be able to connect with their libraries, and no one will suffer the indignity and embarrassment of punitive fines restricting their ability to read, watch, and listen to the 750,000 physical items in our collection,” said Ben Hyman, VIRL’s Executive Director.
“I would like to thank staff for their advocacy and vision to make our system fine free, and our Board for supporting this values-aligned outcome.”
Late fees on young adult and adult materials were suspended in response to COVID-related restrictions during the pandemic.
At a September 25th, 2021 VIRL board members approved the permanent removal of young adult fines and a one-year moratorium on adult fines.
Then back in September, the board agreed to permanently remove fines on all adult materials, starting in 2023.
On average there are approximately 150,000 physical items checked out across VIRL’s system at any one time.
Data collected by VIRL indicates that two thirds of those items will be returned before the 21-day loan period is up, and 98% will be returned before 120 days.
To help encourage borrowers to return their items on time, several reminders are sent in the lead up to and after the due date. After 120 days, VIRL will charge the replacement cost to recoup the cost of the item.
Anyone with existing fines has also had them removed from their account as part of this change. In 2019, the Board permanently removed late fees on all children’s materials.
Just the other day, VIRL released its top checked out books of 2022 so if you aren’t sure on what to read next, click here to see some of the most popular books for the year.
There’s a new Asian fusion style pub opening in downtown Victoria later this month.
With support from his longtime friends and business partners Eric Moon and Eric Zheng, Arnold Yeung is opening his first restaurant after working 10 years in the Victoria restaurant business.
For Yeung, the opportunity to open Victoria Pocha allows the longtime foodie the ability to run a restaurant his way.
“When opening your own restaurant you have more control. The places that I worked at have different work styles than I do. I always wanted to see what it feels like if I had my own restaurant,” Yeung told Victoria Buzz.
What started out as a vague idea between Yeung and Moon soon became a reality as Yeung spent the greater half of 2022 searching for a space to host his business.
Located on Yates Street, Victoria Pocha is replacing the home of King Sejong Restaurant, a long time Korean food staple in Victoria.
“The previous owners wanted to retire. They were going to give their business to their daughters but their children were looking for something other than restaurant owners. It was sad seeing the business cycling out.”
The new introduction of Victoria Pocha will offer guests a traditional restaurant atmosphere with a modern focus on street food and pub style dishes.
While serving an array of Chinese and Japanese cuisine, Korean food will remain the primary focus of the restaurant’s menu.
Guests who are new to Asian fusion meals will enjoy their signature soy garlic pork ribs on their feature menu.
With plenty of applications pouring in and a few more kitchen and serving positions yet to fill, Yeung says their vision is finally coming to reality.
As construction on the restaurant’s interior wraps up this month, Yeung is excited to launch Victoria Pocha at the end of January.
“It’s my first time opening up my own restaurant so it’s going to be huge. It’s always an adventure trying something different. It will be a challenge for me but I will make the most of it.”
After an expensive December, many BC residents will have a bit more money in their bank account to recover from the expenses of the holidays thanks to the BC Affordability Credit first announced in November
BC’s Minister of Finance, Katrine Conroy, says she wants British Columbians to know that their government is thinking about them.
“The winter season often brings extra expenses for people and, with the rising costs we’re seeing around the world, it can add stress to already stretched household budgets,” said Conroy.
“We know it won’t cover all the bills, but hopefully this little extra from the BC Affordability Credit will help take a bit of the pressure off as we head into a new year.”
The province said 85 percent of British Columbians could receive up to $164 per adult and $41 per child this month automatically through the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA).
How the payment works
Low income individuals making up to $36,901 will receive the maximum amount. Those making more than $79,376 will not receive anything. Between those two amounts, eligible individuals will receive money on a sliding scale based on their income.
Families with two children can receive up to a total of $410.
(Province of British Columbia)
The allotment of what British Columbians are entitled to will be added to what they will receive from the BC Climate Action Credit (BCCAC). The province uses the BCCAC as a vehicle for any additional funds they distribute to residents.
Today people will see extra money in their pockets with the BC Affordability Credit. 85% of people in BC will benefit — up to $410 for a family of four. If you're eligible, you can expect to see the credit payment from @CanRevAgency today.https://t.co/kTdW72IhXXpic.twitter.com/J6D7gkAP3o
So if you are entitled to the full $164 and your CRA account says your BCCAC credit paid out on January 5th was $212.37, the affordability credit has been added onto the $48.37 from the BCCAC.
In October of 2022, a ‘top-up’ credit of $164 was also given. So when looking at your CRA breakdown of disbursements, your payments on January 5th should be similar to the October credits.
BC Family Benefit
In addition to the affordability credit above, that credit will also come alongside an enhanced BC Family Benefit payment.
For the next three months, 75% of families could see as much as an extra $58.33 per child.
“We’re focused on helping the people and families who need it most right now, and we are in a strong position to continue this support,” Conroy said in a statement.
“No matter what is on the horizon, we’ll continue to be here for British Columbians.”
This February a brand new immersive cocktail experience is coming to the Sonora Bar & Grill in downtown Victoria.
As you taste the bar’s finest delights, including fancy cocktails and mouth-watering food, you’ll be taken on a journey with an alternate reality twist.
Based on the Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont fairytale, those in attendance will step into the enchanted and cursed world of beauty and the beast.
Guests will work together to lift a curse that has been placed on the beast and his servants.
Created by the same team behind theAlice in Wonderland Immersive Cocktail Experience, this time around, guests will enjoy over 90 minutes of dancing, riddle solving and the opportunity to create their very own cocktails.
“You’re invited to an elegant, Victorian cocktail party (dress-ups encouraged!), part of the select few that have been invited to this elaborate Castle,” reads a description on the event website.
(Photo by Sonora Bar & Grill)
“You’ll be invited to dance, sample from the Castle’s finest delights (of the alcoholic and edible variety), but be careful not to overstay your welcome to take anything that’s not yours – or you may not get home at all!”
For those interested in taking part in this elaborate castle experience, tickets are currently being sold on Hidden Victoria.
According to police, the graffiti has since been removed.
“Police are asking anyone who witnessed this take place or has information regarding this crime to come forward and speak to police,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations.
Anyone with information regarding this crime should contact West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264.
To report anonymously through Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.
According to Environment Canada, heavy winds are expected throughout Greater Victoria, the southern Gulf Islands and the western and eastern coasts of Vancouver Island starting Thursday.
In a weather alert, the agency says a strong low pressure system will bring winds ranging from 70 to 90 km/h near the Strait of Georgia in the afternoon and overnight into Friday.
The western section of Vancouver Island will see wind gusts reach near 100 km/h late Thursday afternoon. Gusts are expected to drop to 50 to 60 km/h later into the night.
Winds will hit southeast 50 km/h, gusting to 80 starting around 2 p.m. in the Greater Victoria area today.
The same storm reached as far south as California and has been dubbed a ‘bomb cyclone’ to those who face the brunt of this weather system.
As the storm approaches Vancouver Island and the coast of BC, it is weakening, but is still expected to bring with it between 50 and 100 millimeters of rainfall before it is done with the island.
Tofino and the western side of the island will face winds up to 70 km/h. In the Juan De Fuca Strait, winds are only predicted to be between 40 and 60 km/h.
Nanaimo and Ladysmith along with the rest of the east coast of the island and the Strait of Georgia will bear the worst of the storm, with winds reaching between 70 and 90 km/h.
For Greater Victoria, rainfall is expected to begin in the evening on Wednesday, and continue through until Friday.
Saanich Police believe a local teenage girl who has gone missing may be in the Vancouver area.
Zenaeh Edwards-Helgasson is a 17-year-old who was last seen on December 19th.
Police describe her as standing 5’6” tall, with an average build and black hair.
Investigators believe that she has gone to the Metro Vancouver area, where she was seen wearing a white zip-up jacket, white pants, white and black shoes, and a black backpack recently.
Police ask that anyone who sees Zenaeh Edwards-Helgasson calls 911.
Anyone with information that could help investigators locate her, contact Saanich Police at (250) 475-4321.
Come to Recyclistas to learn how to safely and effectively maintain, fix, and rebuild bicycles. Whether you are looking to better understand how your own bicycle works or to completely refurbish and build a bicycle, we are ready to help you get rolling!
Unfortunately, there are three things this class cannot help with:
This free art class is open for all ages. The class will explore painting images of nature while learning how to blend colours, walking you through a few techniques to make blending easier.
There will be different versions of the same painting, which suits all ages. Beginners are welcome!
The Tiny Rhythm Kings plays music from the time of Kings, Dukes and Counts!
Music from Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Nat King Cole and more comes to life in the hands of three of the West Coast’s top jazz musicians including the lyrical guitarist Joey Smith, organist Tony Genge and drummer/ vocalist Kelby MacNayr!
Led by drummer extraordinaire and swinging crooner Kelby MacNayr this band is a tour de force of the swinging spirit, sass and soul of jazz!
The City of Victoria wants all artists and designers to submit their work and have their art seen all over the city.
Victoria changes the banners that decorate light standards throughout downtown and James Bay every season. Now that winter feels as if it’s halfway over, the City needs a new summer design.
The chosen winner will have their art displayed in up to 400 places throughout the city in an effort to beautify Victoria’s streetscape. The designs are selected every two years in a juried selection process through the City of Victoria’s Art in Public Places Program.
Artists from all over Greater Victoria, including the Southern Gulf Islands and First Nations may submit their designs. The winner of the selection process will have four designs implemented throughout the city until 2024.
The winner will also receive $2,000.
Here are the banners displayed through the spring/summer of 2021-22:
(Dylan Thomas’ designs/City of Victoria)
The previous winner of the summer banner competition was local Coast Salish artist Dylan Thomas in collaboration with Margaret August and lessLIE.
“Through this collaboration, I hope to extend my good fortune to two of my fellow Salish artists lessLIE (Cowichan Nation) and Margaret August (Shihshalh), while simultaneously honoring the student-teacher relationship that has helped sustain Salish art for thousands of years,” said Thomas.
August was a student of Thomas’ and lessLIE was somewhat of a mentor figure for the artist.
“Through this banner project I chose to honour the lineage of contemporary Salish artist by working with lessLIE – an artist who deeply influenced my work and generously offered his help when my own practice was emerging; and Margaret Briere (August)–my first student who has been working with me over the past few years.”
The imagery in their designs was meant to reflect the collaboration’s relationships as well as heritage, according to Thomas.
“I created a central image (the Salish moon) and then shared this design with Margaret and lessLIE for each of them to expand and create their own designs.”
“I chose to use lunar imagery because the moon represents a cycle in Salish iconography–and I wanted to allude to the teacher-student cycles that allowed the art form to thrive and evolve over vast time,” said Thomas.
Artists who wish to submit their designs can find the guidelines here. The deadline for submissions will be at 4 p.m. on January 26th.
Local artists and designers working in digital mediums are invited to apply to showcase their work through our 2023-2024 Summer Banner program. Learn more at an online info session on Thursday, January 12 at 5:30 p.m. https://t.co/JJmfk79ZZk#yyj#yyjart#yyjartistspic.twitter.com/KBe3Lcypyk
Whether you want to lose weight, travel more, or spend less time on social media, New Year’s resolutions are much harder to keep than they seem.
In a new study conducted by gambling website Time2play, findings revealed the majority of Canadians are likely to fail to stick with their New Year’s resolutions
The study surveyed 1,000 Canadians from across the country, and despite most of them finding New Year’s resolutions beneficial, 68.6% were unable to keep them.
Almost half (48.1%) of those polled lack the motivation to keep their resolutions throughout the year. 14.9% end up forgetting about their resolutions, while 12.2% lost track of their progress.
A few (7.4%) claim they don’t have the time to continue their resolutions, and 4.1% said they set unrealistic goals for themselves.
In a time when people are exploring different ways to achieve their goals, wellness professionals are advising people to look beyond the traditional marketing of self-help books.
“It isn’t about advice giving,” Linda Bradley, certified life and empowerment coach, told Victoria Buzz.
“So many people are reaching out and saying, tell me what to do, give me the four steps and give me the solution.”
For those looking to take their self improvement efforts to the next level, Bradley says the first step is to set aside time to reflect.
“Have they done any self reflection? Have they sat down with themselves to think about a couple of questions? What’s important to me in life and what are my values?
For those who struggle to stay committed to themselves, Bradley says the difference in traditional advice compared to her work as a life coach is that she holds her clients accountable.
“Coaching works because you are hiring an accountability partner. You’re saying this is the objective I want to achieve but I need to check in with somebody, I need somebody to keep on track, I need someone to remind me of why I started this and why it is important to me.”
For Victoria residents interested in learning more about life coaching Bradley currently offers 30-minute sessions for free.
Reading is always at the top of most people’s new year’s resolutions list, and for good reason!
If it weren’t for reading we’d be more akin to our hunter gatherer ancestors than in the midst of planning a space odyssey to Mars in the near future.
Reading has the power to make people smart–both cognitively and emotionally. It can connect us with our peers through book clubs, teach us a recipe from our favourite chef or grandma and it can even catch us up on the local news via Victoria Buzz.
2022 is over now and lots of Victorians are likely looking back with 20/20 hindsight, wishing they’d set aside more time for reading the best of the best books.
If you want to find some of Vancouver Island’s favourite page-turners of last year you are in luck!
Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) has released a list of their most checked-out books in 2022:
We’ve all had them, those pesky prank calls, mistaken numbers and pocket dials that have left you confused as to what is happening.
But for one essential service in particular, nuisance calls tend to plague them quite often.
In 2022, E-Comm answered a total of 2,109,440 calls being made to 9-1-1, marking the busiest year in the organization’s history.
Of these calls, 98% were answered in five seconds or less.
If you’ve ever wondered what some of the most ridiculous reasons why people have called 9-1-1 are, we’ve got you covered.
From flat tires to faulty fuel pumps, E-comm has released the top 10 nuisance calls received in 2022:
The nozzle wasn’t working at the gas station
They had a flat tire
People were playing basketball on a public court at night time
Someone wasn’t picking up after their dog
Someone was using their garbage bin
Complaining about children drawing with chalk at a playground
Their phone was stuck in a bench
Looking for an update on a nationwide telco outage
Someone called 9-1-1 because they had a broken window wiper
Someone cut in line at the car wash
While funny at first, nuisance calls are strongly discouraged to be directed at emergency services such as 9-1-1 as it prevents call takers from being able to aid those in distress.
“Nuisance calls never belong on emergency lines, but it’s extremely concerning how often callers know their non-urgent concerns aren’t an appropriate reason to call 9-1-1. We regularly get callers stating ‘I know this isn’t an emergency, but I didn’t know who else to call,’” says E-Comm call taker Mark Kolomejac.
While faced with a concerning challenge in the moment, emotions and fear can influence confusion when attempting to find the right resource to reach out to for support.
A ‘rain cyclone’ is expected to side-swipe BC’s southern coast on Thursday, January 5th, bringing rainfall and high winds along with it.
This means that a storm system is approaching and that it rotates around the centre of low atmospheric pressures. Winds could reach between 70 and 100 km/h.
The same storm reached as far south as California and has been dubbed a ‘bomb cyclone’ to those who face the brunt of this weather system.
California declared a state of emergency due to flooding and heavy wind damage from the storm on Wednesday. Maximum wind gusts reached up to 130 km/h in the state.
The rainfall that’s been causing lots of flooding in San Francisco’s Bay area is expected to stop on Thursday morning.
As the storm approaches Vancouver Island and the coast of BC, it is weakening, but is still expected to bring with it between 50 and 100 millimetres of rainfall before it is done with the island.
Tofino and the western side of the island will face winds up to 70 km/h. In the Juan De Fuca Strait, winds are only predicted to be between 40 and 60 km/h.
Nanaimo and Ladysmith along with the rest of the east coast of the island and the Strait of Georgia will bear the worst of the storm, with winds reaching between 70 and 90 km/h.
For Greater Victoria, rainfall is expected to begin in the evening on Wednesday, and continue through until Friday.
Environment Canada has yet to announce a storm watch or a weather alert regarding the incoming storm, but their forecast for Thursday does include high winds and rainfall.
“Wind northeast 20 km/h gusting to 40 except 50 gusting to 70 near Juan de Fuca Strait in the morning and early in the afternoon,” reads Environment Canada’s Thursday forecast.
“Wind becoming southeast 50 gusting to 80 in the afternoon.”
Hope you haven’t tucked away those rain boots just yet, Victoria!
Sometimes you have to eat like a broke university student—but why not make it classy?
Whether you’re looking for a change for some variety or a new place to dine in, these 7 ramen restaurants in and around Victoria offer a mix of delicious dinner options, fusing Japanese and Canadian ingredients.
The unlimited creativity and possibilities of Ramen is the focus for the cooks at Rzuna Ramen. Opening in 2021, this specially crafted ramen restaurant serves a blend of Japanese umami food culture, authentic cooking methods, and locally sourced and Canadian made ingredients to create Victoria’s own original rich umami.
Serving authentic Japanese ramen dishes, Ramen Arashi features a whopping nine delicious noodle dishes in a restaurant offering food in a warm friendly atmosphere.
Where: Ramen Arashi, 2950 Douglas Street
When: Wednesday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Three vehicles have been destroyed in a suspected arson in View Royal Tuesday morning.
At around 6:40 a.m. on January 3rd, West Shore RCMP officers attended a call regarding a vehicle that had caught fire in the parking lot of 1445 Craigflower Road, a residential parking lot located just off Admirals Road.
Police say when they arrived, they observed a white 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 fully engulfed in flames with two cars parked alongside it.
According to police, a yellow 2006 Dodge Ram and grey 2013 Hyundai Accent also received considerable damages from the fire.
View Royal Fire attended the scene and were able to extinguish the blaze.
Police believe this may be a case of arson and are seeking a suspect that was seen near the vehicles shortly before the fire began.
West Shore RCMP say they are seeking a man of unknown descent or age who was wearing a black hoodie, black jacket and a black face mask when he was seen near the vehicles.
“Thankfully no one was injured, however three vehicles were significantly damaged by this arson,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.
“Investigators have canvassed the area and spoken to many residents living nearby; however, we are asking anyone who has information regarding this crime to come forward and speak to police.”
Police are asking anyone who has dash camera or home surveillance footage in the area,to come forward and call West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264.
Almost exactly one-year after the SM Busan was stuck in Victoria, another container ship, the GSL Eleni, was brought to Ogden Point in Victoria to undergo mechanical repairs.
The Liberian registered ship is about 300 metres long and is stacked high with shipping containers and ‘sea-cans’.
The GSL Eleni was bound for South Carolina from Vancouver by way of the Panama Canal, according to Ian Robertson, CEO of the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA).
While the vessel was en route, it experienced mechanical failure in its rudder just off the coast of Tofino.
“It was stuck in what’s called ‘port position,’” Robertson told Victoria Buzz. “So it was unable to maneuver.”
“[The ship] is positioned stern into the dock at Ogden Point, so you can see that the rudder is stuck to the port.”
While the GVHA said they are always happy to accommodate repairs, Robertson did say that during the thick of cruise season in Victoria, the ship likely would have had to go elsewhere to find repairs because Ogden Point is just too busy during that time.
“Reports tell me that it’s going to be there for a week,” Robertson said to Victoria Buzz when asked how long the GSL Eleni would be in port.
“It could be longer, but fortunately we don’t have any upcoming plans for that side of the pier and so we’re able to accommodate it as long as it needs to stay here to get its repairs done.”
Robertson told Victoria Buzz that the GVHA has a full manifest of the ship’s contents and he wants to assure Victorians that there are no dangerous materials on board that would be of any risk to the public.
The GVHA welcomes locals and tourists alike to come and feast their eyes on the magnitude of size of the GSL Eleni while it is still here. It isn’t that often a ship of this size is in port at Ogden Point during the winter months.
Almost a year ago to date, Ogden Point hosted another similar vessel, the SM Busan out of South Korea.
On January 2nd, 2022, the SM Busan came to port for repairs as well. It was stacked much higher with cargo though and residents from all over Greater Victoria flocked to the Breakwater to see the ship eclipse the skyline.
This unique menagerie of musicians met through the raw energy of Friday night jam parties in Victoria.
Incredible live performances and hot vibey studio sessions gave rise to Downtown Mischief; a cast of musical characters, each with their own alter ego, who form a driving, pulsing machine that explodes with life on stage.
Formed in 2017, the Victoria-based project is led by Angus Watt. Pulling influence from the jerky rhythms and genre-blending curiosity of Talking Heads as well as the interlocking guitar-work of Canadian post-punk luminaries Women, the music of Pastel Blank cloaks experimentation in pop-minded song structure.
In February 2020, Pastel Blank released Cinema Is Cheap, a standalone single written and recorded in a hazy fervour over the course of one night in a small, airless room at a former band house.
With a sound built as if to contrast the beauty that surrounds them, The Dog Indiana blast their audience with a wall reverb, feedback, and distortion, creating the perfect foil to the natural serenity of Vancouver Island.
The trio has spent the last four years building a dynamic repertoire of original material, a sound of simmering doom that boils over and explodes into thrashing primordial chaos.
Saskatchewan born singer/songwriter Matt Goud, aka Northcote is known for his distinct and intimate voice. His influences include Hardcore Metal, Folk, Americana and Devotional Music. Matt lives in Victoria and also works as a mental health worker and volunteers as an amateur hockey broadcaster.
Ocie Elliott is a Canadian folk music duo from Victoria, whose members are Jon Middleton (from Jon and Roy) and Sierra Lundy.
After racking up over 35 million combined streams and receiving acclaim from American Songwriter, Atwood Magazine, PopSugar, and more, the pair cemented this balance on their 2021 EP, Slow Tide.
Middleton and Lundy began performing together as a duo in 2017,releasing a self-titled EP that year placing their song “Run to You” in a 2019 episode of Grey’s Anatomy, and their song “The Less We Know” in a 2022 episode.
Hush Hush Noise is an experimental pop duo from Victoria featuring multi-instrumentalists/vocalists Lily Fawn and Eric Hogg.
Their intricate arrangements combine organic sounds with electronics to create memorable songs that range from hypnotic lullabies to nightmarish psychedelia.
Jon and Roy is a Canadian three-piece folk rock and reggae band from Victoria.
Singer-songwriter and guitarist Jon Middleton and percussionist Roy Vizer met at University of Victoria. They formed Jon and Roy, and began performing around Victoria and Vancouver in 2003.
After eight studio albums, Jon and Roy released Know Your Mind in 2021.
Winner of the 2021 JazzTimes Readers’ Poll for Best Female Vocalist. Verbrugge released her 2019 debut on NY-based Gut String Records with a piano trio backing from three veterans of the NYC jazz scene. The album hit number one in jazz on iTunes Canada.
After having three kids, she followed her passion to jazz by assembling a jazz education through self-study and mentorship from top artists.
Over the weekend, the NHL announced the league’s two most recent additions will play an outdoor hockey game at T-Mobile Park in in Seattle, Washington.
The Seattle Kraken will host the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2024 Winter Classic on Monday, January 1st, 2024.
“Outdoor hockey is at the essence of our game and the way many of our players grew up playing,” said Ron Francis, Seattle Kraken general manager. “We are thrilled to have the chance to showcase this in Seattle.”
T-Mobile Park, which is a retractable roof stadium, is the home of the MLB’s Seattle Mariners and has a seating capacity of 47,929.
It is in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood, near the western terminus of Interstate 90.
Despite being a young franchise, Vegas already has an outdoor game under their belts, falling to the Colorado Avalanche on February 20th, 2021 at Lake Tahoe.
The Golden Knights entered the league in 2017 and the Kraken last season.
“It’s a tremendous honor to host the next NHL Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park,” said Catie Griggs, Seattle Mariners president of business operations.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support our hometown team when they take the ice and see our ballpark packed to the rafters with our city’s incredible fans cheering them on.”
Victorians who would like to receive updates on ticket information can visit here to sign up for alerts.
Ticket sales will be managed by the NHL and are expected to begin in Spring 2023.
A 60-year-old man has succumbed to his injuries after being struck by a vehicle on Tuesday morning.
At around 7:40 a.m. on January 3rd, Port Alberni RCMP received a call that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle near 6 Avenue and Redford Street.
Police say officers attended the scene promptly and began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
According to police, the driver of the vehicle that struck the man remained at the scene and fully cooperated with officers.
The man who was struck was treated at the scene by paramedics and transported to a nearby hospital where he later died of his injuries.
Police say that out of respect for the man and his family, the RCMP will not be releasing any further details.
“As the nights stay long, and the fog and poor weather continues, we encourage drivers to take a little extra care, and take a few moments longer to get to their destinations,” said Cst. Richard Johns.
“The Port Alberni RCMP are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to this collision and are awaiting the results of a collision reconstruction report.”
Police ask that anyone who has dash camera video of the area around the time of the collision, call Port Alberni RCMP at 250-723-2424.
With the holidays now in the rearview mirror, many of us will be getting back to our daily routines. While it might be tough, the daily grind doesn’t have to be a bad thing when you have plenty of fun activities that await!
From jazz performances to calming breathe work classes, here are five things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, January 3rd:
Live stream session of Vancouver Local singer songwriter Paul Clifford. Paul Clifford originally from the UK Paul now resides in Vancouver.
Paul uses a live loop setup and draws his inspiration from artists like “Bon Iver”& “Ben Howard”. You can catch Paul in around Vancouver at different local venues and busking in around the city.
Where: Paul Clifford Live via Facebook
When: Wednesday, January 4th, 7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
A Vancouver Island resort was the only hotel in Canada to be listed among a list of the best in the world.
The Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge landed itself among some of North America’s most prestigious places to stay according to Condé Nast Traveller’s Gold List for 2023.
Clayoquot Sound is the name of the inlet just northeast of Tofino that the resort lies and it offers its guests a taste of tranquility in the stillness of Vancouver Island’s pristine wilderness.
It is accessible only by boat, helicopter or seaplane and is nestled in the island’s signature brand of old-growth rainforest.
(Google Maps)
Despite its remoteness, nobody is forced to be “roughing it” at this wilderness lodge.
The canvas tents that guests stay in may pay homage to prospector tents of the region’s past, but the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge embodies luxury from every angle.
That being said, the ethos of the resort is based in Indigenous teachings.
(Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge)
Guests are encouraged to do a “digital detox” and get in touch with nature while staying at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. They achieve this by learning from practices of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation peoples.
The Nuu-chah-nulth Nation have a mutual understanding of conservation with the owners and desire to celebrate, protect and educate guests about the region’s natural and cultural heritage they’ve been stewards to for over 2,000 years.
(Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge)
Australia hoteliers James and Hayley Baillie, proprietors of Baillie Lodges, put $1.6 million into a glow-up for the luxury resort which have landed it on the prestigious list among some of the most beautiful and opulent places to stay in the world.
(Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge)
The Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge has a one-of-a-kind spa and a restaurant run by life partners Olivia Bolano and Mark Ota who cut their culinary teeth in some of Toronto’s best restaurants.
The resort offers several day-activities like kayaking in glacial waters, fly-fishing, canyoning, horseback riding, archery and heli-adventures.
On your mark, get set, go… start planning your next camping trip!
With the launch of an improved camping reservation system by BC Parks, their online booking now allows you to make reservations up to four months in advance.
Originally announced last year, BC Parks reservation site opened for bookings at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, January 3rd.
So if you’re brave enough, you can now log on to the BC Parks’ campsite reservation system and book a site into May.
In previous years, the website booking system was known to crash as many flocked to the site to score their favourite spot.
After several hours into the launch, the new system so far has avoided any disruptions or crashes.
The new website was launched last March as part of the ongoing improvements to deal with the influx of people hopping onto the website at the same time.
The online booking system was upgraded to make the process of booking a camping spot easier for British Columbians and to keep up with growing demand.
A record-breaking 317,000 reservations were made on the new BC Parks reservation service for the 2022 season–an increase of 26.5% since 2019.
This time around, campers are allowed to pre-book four months in advance of their trip. As of today, reservations can be booked for arrivals up to May 3rd.
The addition of this extended booking period now doubles the scheduling period allowed for reservations.
“Through our ongoing visitor engagement, we’ve heard the majority of campers prefer a four-month rolling window, allowing people to book a site well in advance of their visit,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy in a press release.
The reservation of group sites and picnic shelters are the only exceptions to the four month reservation period with on the spot bookings.
The list of reservable campsites and dates that are currently available can be found on BC Parks website’.
Canada saw a record breaking-number of people immigrate to the country in 2022, according to numbers released by Statistics Canada.
COVID-19’s severity has been decreasing and people fleeing the war in Ukraine may be a factor in the number of new Canadians welcomed to the country.
The Government of Canada set a goal for itself at the beginning of 2022 to welcome more than 431,000 newcomers to the country and on January 3rd, they announced the milestone was met.
According to Statista, a statistics and research firm who took a look at the amount of newcomers to BC, 83,000 of that number immigrated to British Columbia.
(Statista)
As the graph shows, 2022’s numbers for new British Columbians smashed the numbers of immigrants from all previous years dating back to 2000, more than doubling some years.
Statista’s source for BC’s immigration data was based on numbers from Statistics Canada.
In 2021, the country had previously set a record with 401,000 immigrants coming into Canada. Previously, the record belonged to 1913’s intake of immigrants.
This means that 2022’s total of 431,645 new Canadians is the most newcomers brought into the country in history.
“Today marks an important milestone for Canada, setting a new record for newcomers welcomed in a single year,” said Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
“It is a testament to the strength and resilience of our country and its people.”
Let's work together to ensure that Canada remains a welcoming and supportive place for newcomers, and celebrate their vital role in Canada’s success. Learn more here: https://t.co/TTsCh4r1Y0
These high numbers in immigration are believed to be good for Canada’s economy, especially since businesses have been struggling to keep staff.
According to the Government of Canada, immigration accounts for almost 100% of Canada’s labour force growth and 75% of its population growth.
It is projected that by 2036, immigrants will comprise 30% of Canada/s population as compared to 2011’s 20.7%.
More people than ever before wanted to come to the country last year. In 2022, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processed 5.2 million applications for permanent residence, temporary residence and citizenship.
Even the application numbers processed last year beat the number of applications in 2021 by double, according to Fraser.
“Newcomers play an essential role in filling labour shortages, bringing new perspectives and talents to our communities, and enriching our society as a whole,” said Fraser.
“I am excited to see what the future holds and look forward to another historic year in 2023 as we continue to welcome newcomers.”
Jennifer Cole, winner of $31-million Lotto Max jackpot on July 8, 2021.
Last year BC residents cashed in big through lottery winnings, including Vancouver Islanders.
According to a BCLC, 100 million winning lotto tickets were sold throughout the province in 2022 which resulted in more than $802 million in prizes for lottery players.
On Vancouver Island alone, 17.6 million tickets were sold netting $110.8 million being won by islanders.
Just before the new year, Patricia Weaver and Erin Roberston, a grandmother and granddaughter duo from Lake Cowichan were able to enjoy a stress free holiday after winning $675,000 playing Set for Life.
“I was at home and had to check on my phone to let it sink in,” said Robertson.
The family are one of eight winners that cashed in grand prizes valued at $500,000 or more.
West Kelowna’s Jennifer Cole became the largest prize winner in BCLC history after scoring a $31-million Lotto Max jackpot on July 8th, 2021.
“As we welcome the new year, we’re excited to look back at 2022 and celebrate our players and the dreams that became realities for our lottery winners,” said Pat Davis, BCLC President and CEO.
The latest BC Assessment numbers have been released and so have the top valued properties in the province.
As per previous years, BC’s property assessment firm revealed the top 500 most expensive properties and only five properties on southern Vancouver Island made the cut.
But don’t let that fool you—the Vancouver Island homes that did make it did so for good reason.
According to BC’s 2023 list of top-valued properties, the most expensive property in the province is located in the City of Vancouver and will cost you a cool $74,089,000 in pocket change.
The home, which is owned by Lululemon’s founder Chip Wilson, takes the crown for owning the most expensive home in BC.The value of his home increased slightly by $94,200 in the latest assessment.
In Greater Victoria, the top spot goes to a home in Oak Bay costing a whopping $16.8 million dollars.
In the next few days, owners of about 384,000 properties throughout Vancouver Island should be receiving their 2022 assessment notices, which reflect market value as of July 1st, 2022.
In a report released by BC Assessment, property assessments have risen 10 to 20% across the board on Vancouver Island this year.
While the value of housing in Greater Victoria continues to rise, four of Vancouver Island’s most expensive properties have actually declined across the board according to the 2023 assessment.
This year Oak Bay takes the top spot as three out of five properties on the list reside in the municipality:
For the second year in a row, this waterfront home is listed as Victoria’s most expensive property. Despite this, the assessment has dropped $1,047,000 from $17,875,000 to $16,828,000.
This waterfront home occupies most of the peninsula between Loon Bay and Cadboro Bay adjacent to the Victoria Yacht Club.
This 10,251 square foot single family home has been assessed at a massive $13 million and features 3 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. As of 2023, unfortunately, the home is not listed for sale.
This custom-designed home is also worth nearly $13 million and is surrounded by lush forests and gardens. To name a few of the highlights, it features a private beach and boat launch, eight bathrooms, a yoga studio, an infinity pool, an underground wine cellar as well as a private theatre.
Location: Central Saanich
Status: Sold
Valued at: $12,980,000
Square Feet: 13,000
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 8
Residence type: Single family
1850 Land End Road
Built in 1983, this residence features natural lighting from large windows and skylights that face more than 1,500 feet of ocean views—and it’ll cost you $15.4 million.
This home sits on 24.57 acres of oceanfront property and offers four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The property also includes a caretaker’s cottage and 15 parking spots.
This home comes with a price tag of $12,825,000 and is considered one of the most desirable and spectacular waterfront properties on southern Vancouver Island.
This property offers 2.24 acres of manicured grounds, and includes almost 700 feet of private waterfront, a secluded beach area and three islets that provides seasonal moorage.
Described as Victoria’s most beautiful waterfront setting; an Uplands Estate like no other – 2.5 acres of south facing, private oceanfront and over 1,000′ feet of seawall above rocky shoreline and its very own sandy beach protecting gorgeous landscaping and lawns. Incredible views of the Strait, Mt. Baker & beyond – this is an exquisite residence of over 15,000 square feet of elegance.
Location: Oak Bay
Status: Sold
Valued at: $12,665,000
Selling Price: $11,499,000
Square Feet: 15,409
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 9
Residence type: Single family
For those interested in assessing the value of their own home, this is what goes into property assessments throughout the province.
Police are reminding motorists to be extra careful after a young boy was struck by a vehicle in Courtenay in the early hours Tuesday.
At around 8:30 a.m. on January 3rd, Comox Valley RCMP say they received a call to respond to a collision in the 400-block of Woods Avenue between a motor vehicle and a small child.
Police say they blocked off the road for a short time to allow paramedics the opportunity to properly assess the situation. During this time officers spoke with witnesses to better understand the situation.
“The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and has been fully cooperative with the investigation,” said Cst. Monika Terragni, Media Relations Officer, Comox Valley RCMP.
“There is no indication that speed, impairment, or carelessness were factors in this incident.”
“This is an unfortunate reminder for both pedestrians and drivers to be extra careful during the busy times children are headed to and from school.”
The boy was transported to hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
If you were planning a weekend getaway to Tofino during the off-season but don’t have a car, you may be out of luck.
Vancouver Island Connector’s Tofino Bus is putting their services on hiatus until May beginning this week.
The bus may only operate seasonally going forward as it hasn’t been profitable for its parent company since the pandemic affected travel on Vancouver Island.
John Wilson, President, and CEO of The Wilson’s Group of Companies which took over operations of Tofino bus pre-pandemic, in 2018, says they know people rely on their buses’ services and the company did not make the decision lightly.
“We are very concerned about the safety of the people who rely on our service. Sadly, we have no other options,” said Wilson.
With the Tofino Bus’ service ending until spring, Vancouver Island is losing its only inter-municipality bus. This bus provided much-needed transportation to 29 communities and 21 First Nations communities.
Wilson says that since the COVID-19 pandemic, ridership has been down by 95% on the inter-municipality routes and has yet to recover to regain a sustainable level of commuters.
“The passenger counts drop so drastically in the fall and winter months that the revenue made during our peak season just simply isn’t enough to sustain the service 12 months of the year,” said Wilson.
The company hasn’t had any funding to help the business survive the pandemic since March 2022 and received a one-time grant back in 2021 through the BC government.
Being that the Tofino Bus isn’t a part of public transit and relies on ticket sales to remain profitable, they decided it was best to go on hiatus rather than lose money in the off-season.
“We have tried our best to cut back on costs where we can,” said Wilson. “With our current passenger counts we are unable to cover the operational expenses for these runs and cannot continue to operate these routes at a loss through the winter months. Therefore, we have made the decision to move to a seasonal, May through October, service.”
The last day of operation for the Tofino bus and the Vancouver Island Connector will be Tuesday, January 3rd until it begins again in May.
Wilson said that any passengers who have previously purchased tickets for a trip during this time will be contacted and issued a refund.
Your home may be worth a lot more now, as Victoria enters 2023.
In the next few days, owners of about 384,000 properties throughout Vancouver Island should be receiving their 2022 assessment notices, which reflect market value as of July 1st, 2022.
In a report released by BC Assessment, property assessments have risen across the board on Vancouver Island this year.
Since last year, the total value of property assessments across the island increased by nearly $44 billion, rising from approximately $342 billion in 2022 to $386 billion this year.
About $4.78 billion of the region’s updated assessments is from new construction, subdivisions and the rezoning of properties.
According to BC Assessment, the majority of residences saw a range of percentage change in value between 10 and 35%.
“Homeowners across Vancouver Island can generally expect about 10% to 20% rise in assessment values with a few exceptions,” said Vancouver Island Deputy Assessor Jodie MacLennan.
“While the current real estate market has been trending downwards, it is important to consider that 2023 assessments are based on what your home could have sold for as of July 1, 2022, when the market was performing higher.”
A Victoria newscaster is taking a stand after receiving an email criticizing her appearance on a recent broadcast where she was updating the weather forecast.
During the broadcast, van Straaten could be seen wearing a sleeveless dress—which, apparently, one viewer in particular found offensive.
On January 1st, CHEK News personality Tess van Straaten posted to Twitter a message the news publication received from a viewer who critiqued her outfit.
“This is what women in broadcasting sadly still face in 2023… Do you think my dress is ‘almost upsetting’,” the tweet caption read.
Straaten posted a screenshot of the message the station received, with the viewer saying, “I find it inappropriate for Tess van Straaten to still wear sleeveless tops in the wintertime to report on the weather.”
“In my opinion, she should be wearing a suit jacket and look more professional like other newscasters around the world.”
“Sorry for a negative comment but it is almost upsetting to see what she is wearing,” the email ended.
This is what women in broadcasting sadly still face in 2023… Do you think my dress is 'almost upsetting'? pic.twitter.com/iMBQM542yh
By the afternoon, responses were pouring in, supporting the local newscaster. To date, her tweet has garnered over 1,000 likes and nearly 600,000 views.
The majority of responses supported Straaten’s decision to stand up to the critics.
A user questioned the critic’s priorities during a time when more pressing social issues should be addressed.
HUMANS all over the world face excruciating lives. Lack of food, water, clothing, shelter…many don’t have the basic necessities.
We are discussing sleeve length for women. Maybe OUR priorities are slightly off.
Others supported Straaten’s decision to stand up and speak out.
Thank you for posting this. It is only when we each speak up that we will change culture. Especially in honour of the young woman who was beaten to death because her hijab was "too far back."
Admitting Straaten previously ignored comments of this nature, in recent years she decided to call them out in an effort to support women that are struggling to find their voice.
I used to just ignore comments like this but a few years ago, I decided to start calling them out. We need to standup and speak out so that things change. It’s truly heartbreaking to see what women in other parts of the world are faced with. I really have no words.
As prices are expected to rise across the board in 2023, child care may be one thing parents in British Columbia can save on.
On January 3rd, just as parents return to work from the long weekend, the province released a statement on how they will continue to try and make child care easier on parents in the coming year.
More than 1,375 child care spaces will move into the $10-a-day program through ChildCareBC in January alone.
Grace Lore, BC’s Minister of State for Child Care says she wants the model to be a staple service that the province can provide parents.
“Affordable child care can be life-changing, and with these new $10-a-day spaces, we continue our work to make life more affordable for families with more spaces converted in the next few weeks,” said Lore.
“The recent child care savings and the $10-a-Day ChildCareBC program are some of the ways we are making child care more affordable and allowing parents–especially mothers–to pursue opportunities and achieve financial independence and security, which benefits families, our communities and the economy as a whole.”
The child care spaces that operate within the province’s $10-a-day program make it so parents spend only $200 per month rather than upwards of $1,000.
BC’s Ministry of Families, Children and Social Development and the Ministry of Education and Child Care have set the lofty goal of adding 12,500 spaces to the already long list of these type of child care centres.
In an interview with Centennial Day Care Society–which is a small child care operation in Greater Victoria–Executive Director, Alexandra Maurice said the province decides who gets to be a part of the $10-a-day program via a lottery system.
“The government is obviously trying to make child care more affordable so we have this new $10 a day initiative,” Maurice told Victoria Buzz.
“Everybody just goes into this pool, hundreds and hundreds of centres that want to become a $10 a day centre. Then they’re selected at random.”
She believes this funding becoming available is meant to close the gap between what parents had to pay before and get them to this program’s state.
“The goal for BC is that everyone be at $10 a day,” said Maurice.
The province said they do give extra consideration to Indigenous communities and communities that do not already have the more affordable option.
“I think it’s really incredible that [the province] is doing this and seeing how important child care is,” said Maurice.
“It really is an essential service, it is a challenging job, and essentially, child care can be seen as the backbone of the working force.”
In a email statement to Victoria Buzz, the province said the selection for daycares goes through a vetting process based on the population density, type of child care program, facility ownership, community with additional consideration given to providers in communities that do not currently have a $10-a-day site.
BC claims that applications are reviewed and approved on a rolling basis now, meaning new centres can be announced monthly.
Within Island Health’s region there are currently 39 locations that are part of the program, 16 of which are within Greater Victoria.
Sunrise Cowichan Bay January 2nd, 2023 (Valerie Tilley)
Hello 2023!
If you were awake in the early hours of Monday morning, you were privy to gorgeous glowing red sunrise that broke through Vancouver Island’s hazy skies.
Anyone who managed to wake up early this morning may have caught the beautiful scene light up the sky.
In case you’re not superhuman and you slept in, we’ve got you covered. Here are 19 photos of this morning’s sunrise.
Beautiful start to the day here in Ladysmith! (Marsha Fric)From the Point Holmes webcam in Comox. Viewed from the comfort of the couch (Trevor Blackburn)
West Shore RCMP have issued a missing person alert for a 60-year-old man last seen in mid-December.
James Cheetham was last seen in the Langford area on December 18th and was reported as missing on January 1st.
Police describe Cheetham as being Caucasian, standing 5’10” tall with a medium build. He has long white hair that is usually kept in a pony tail and has blue eyes.
Cheetham was last seen wearing a black Helly Hansen jacket.
No other details were released surrounding his disappearance.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of James Cheetham is urged to contact police, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
A man accused of randomly attacking women in downtown Victoria with a burning chemical has been arrested.
The incidents first began in late November when police issued a media release when two women had an unknown, hot-feeling liquid splashed on their legs, causing a burning sensation and skin irritation—at the time, it was believed the liquid was hot coffee.
Since that time, more similar incidents occurred, including on Thursday, December 29th when a man sprayed an unknown liquid on a group of women in the 1100-block of Government Street.
The victims told police the liquid had damaged their nylons and, similar to the previous incidents, caused a burning sensation on their skin.
The following day, on Friday, December 30th, police arrested a man in relation to these random assaults.
Police say he was later released but now faces conditions that he must abide by as well as a future date in court.
“The investigation is ongoing, and investigators believe that there may be additional victims or witnesses and are looking to speak with anyone who has witnessed or may have experienced a similar encounter but has not yet come forward,” said VicPD in a release.
Investigators are asking any witnesses or additional victims who have not yet reached out to police to call VicPD’s report desk at 250-995-7654 extension 1.
BC is ringing in the new year by implementing the first ever delivery-fee cap for companies such as SkipTheDishes and DoorDash.
Beginning on January 1st, 2023, restaurant owners will have more certainty when it comes to their overhead costs.
Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, Brenda Bailey doesn’t want to see restaurant owners who are struggling to turn a profit unfairly charged by food-delivery companies.
“We all have a favourite local restaurant, somewhere we celebrate as families and friends, eat our favourite foods, or get a taste of home,” said Bailey, Minister of Jobs.
“When restaurants were being charged unfair fees, our government acted fast to implement a temporary cap on delivery-service fees. We’re excited to bring in a permanent cap in the new year that will provide more support to restaurants.”
The Canadian government passed the Food Delivery Service Fee Act on November 3rd to respond to delivery companies charging restaurants upwards of 30% of an order’s value over the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This was the first permanent cap to take the place of the temporary cap first imposed in December of 2020.
Now, with the new cap in place, delivery companies cannot charge restaurants more than 20% of the dollar value of an order.
This new act also gives restaurants the opportunity to enhance the services provided by the delivery companies, if they choose to do so.
In addition to advocating for restaurants, the new act also protects delivery drivers. It ensures that companies don’t add fees onto drivers. Delivery employees and contractors will now be guaranteed their full wages and any tips earned will be theirs.
Parliamentary Secretary for Labour, Janet Routledge saw that over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, it became increasingly important to protect delivery drivers wages while the companies they were employed by boomed.
“We’ve seen dramatic growth in app-based delivery work in recent years, but we need to ensure workers are treated fairly,” said Routledge.
“It was a priority to include protections for food-delivery workers in this legislation that prevent the costs of the delivery-fee cap from being downloaded onto them.”
The Soul Shakers have entertained Victoria area audiences for more than a decade with their own brand of funky R&B dance music. They combine superb musicianship with five strong vocalists led by lead vocalist Joyce “the voice” Allensen.
There is no doubt they are one of the best dance bands on Vancouver Island!
Their show is undeniably entertaining and audience engaging led by powerhouse front person Joyce Allensen. The band includes Henning Kanstrup (bass), Sean McCool (guitars), Paul McLellan (drums) and Alexander B. Ferguson ( keyboards).
Saturday nights are the biggest night of the week down at The Duke Saloon. Come on down and witness incredible live music in one of Victoria’s premier venues. You won’t regret it.
Sharing a passion for Yoga and Sound, Dawn and her husband Craig have created a unique immersive experience.
Craig mixes music and sound live while Dawn leads a Flow followed by Yin and Yoga Nidra; the practice is coupled with electronic music, natural sounds, visceral tonal vibrations, delta waves and binaural beats to stimulate your senses and facilitate mind-body integration.
All levels are welcome.
Where: The Lab, 1088 Fort Street
When: Saturday, December 31st, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Come ring in the New Year at Starlight Lights of Wonder in Centennial Square!
There will be two countdowns to the New Year:
9 p.m. – Want to celebrate the New Year and have the kids in bed before midnight? The 9 p.m. countdown is perfect for families (or just those of us who like to go to bed early)
12 p.m. – We are honouring traditional New Year’s and closing out Lights of Wonder for the year with a countdown to midnight!
Whether you choose the 9 p.m. or the 12 p.m. countdown, wear your shiniest, sparkliest, brightest outfits! Glow sticks and prizes will be handed out throughout the night!
The 360-degree camera will be on site with some fun accessories, so you can get the coolest videos of your friends/family.
Where: Centennial Square
When: Saturday, December 31st, 7:15 p.m. to 12 p.m.
The Empress has played hostess to numerous grand balls over the years. In 1919, Edward Prince of Wales waltzed the night away in the iconic Crystal Ballroom.
Be part of a grand tradition and eloquently ring in the New Year in Fairmont Empress’ historic Crystal Ballroom.
This year, in classic formal fashion, Fairmont Empress’ New Year’s Eve Event will involve black-tie attire, cocktails upon arrival, live entertainment and a four-course seated dinner.
You’ve waited for this: now it’s time to gather those who mean the most to you and share an experience like no other.
Where: Fairmont Empress Hotel, 721 Government Street
Fusing two fresh-off-the-mountain electronic music addicts, Tim and Dave together
Hailing from the ski town of Whistler, this dynamic duo loves shredding the ski hill almost as much as they love smashing out hit records in the studio.
Producing and performing together for over 6 years, Tim and Dave feed off their high energy live shows. Featuring everything from funky bassline house to black-diamond twerk.
Guests will be transported back to the magic of the Roaring 20’s, a time when footloose flappers danced the Charleston, gamblers tried their luck at the roulette table, and everyone drank free-flowing bootlegged booze.
This evening of good times and amazing food and drink will be held via a secret password revealed two days beforehand.
Where: The Collective – Wine Bar & Kitchen, 230 Cook Street
Join the folks at the Irish Times Pub before 4 p.m. for Irish New Year’s featuring Black Angus playing live at 3:30 p.m.The Prowl takes the stage at 9:30 p.m.
Ring in the new year at the Upstairs Lounge. On Saturday night, celebrate in style with a fine multi-course buffet style dinner and dancing to Victoria’s best R&B band, Big Hank and The Kingpins!
Bundle up and stroll through thousands of twinkling lights featuring the Twelve Days of Christmas display, sing along to the sounds of the season with Traditional Carollers and Festive Brass, then stop in at the Coffee Shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and gingerbread by the fire.
When: December 1st to January 6th, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Celebrate the last evening of the year with our annual New Year’s Eve Champagne Dinner!
Guests are invited to join Executive Chef Kreg Graham as he presents and pours a special selection of Champagnes, each thoughtfully paired with a different culinary delight using locally sourced ingredients.
Reservations are required, 1 ticket per person, 2 to 6 guests per party.
Until December 31st, the free, accessible, and all-ages outdoor light display will welcome guests to experience a variety of activities and entertainment each day.
This year, Lights of Wonder will also include nightly performances every night except for on Christmas Day. A schedule of event for each night can be found on the Downtown Victoria Business Association website.
‘Tis the season of Holiday Magic! Enjoy a cozy beverage, warm fire, their massive holiday tree, crafts, and a visit from Santa! You may even see Luke the Sasquatch partaking in the holiday fun! Here you can find more details on each activity.
When: December 3rd to January 1st, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (see list of times)
Celebrated for her resplendent vocal timbre, exceptional musicality and unparalleled dramatic instincts, the Vancouver native is establishing herself as one of the most exciting emerging artists in the opera world.
Ms. Osborne was one of the youngest Grand Prize winners in the history of the Metropolitan Opera National Council auditions and has gone on to debut on opera and concert stages across the globe.
The Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department hosts their annual Polar Bear Swim at Whiffin Spit. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with a cannon start at noon!
When: Saturday, January 1st, 11:30 a.m. registration. 12 p.m. swim
Start off the New Year with a program every bit as effervescent as a glass of bubbles! Maestro Giuseppe Pietraroia and our guests share much loved arias, overtures, choruses, and dances from the pens of Lehár, Strauss, Verdi, Puccini, Rossini, Massenet and more!
Alarms were set off on Friday morning when a pipe burst at Victoria General Hospital (VGH).
The pipe, which burst around 8:30 a.m. on December 30th, caused two maintenance workers to be injured and they are now receiving medical care.
View Royal Fire Chief, Paul Hurst told Victoria Buzz the fire crews were told on arrival there was a broken pipe that was releasing steam and hot water that had set off the alarms which triggered their response.
“Crews went to investigate and found a four inch hot water line, connected to the boiler lines, had broken while it was being worked on.”
“The hot water and steam coming out sprayed the workers,” Hurst told Victoria Buzz. “They’ve got significant, serious burns.”
The injured workers are being treated at the Royal Jubilee Hospital’s burn unit.
The steam affected an area of the hospital where no patients are treated, but damages from the flooding are significant.
“The issue was of course the hot water coming down the hallway,” said Hurst. “When crews got there, there was zero visibility in the hallway from the stream.”
“They had to access the [shutoff] valve by getting access to the ceiling space about 10 or 12 feet up and shut the water down.”
After the valve was shut off, fire crews remained to help remove water to reduce damage.
Chief Hurst said that thankfully the hospital was able to remain open although the situation did temporarily affect the intake of patients.
Island Health issued a statement to provide information on a temporary disruption to the hospital’s workflow shortly after the incident.
The health authority said repairs to the mechanical equipment that was damaged are underway.
In the aftermath of the incident, ambulances bound for the VGH emergency room were rerouted to the Royal Jubilee Hospital for two hours.
Island Health says the emergency department remains open and it is able to provide emergency care.
Barbara Postleb - Cowichan Lake - Floating Walkway ( Barbara Postleb/Instagram)
A man and woman from Ladysmith were arrested last week after being caught on surveillance breaking into a property in Youbou, near Lake Cowichan.
On December 23rd, owners alerted police to their recreational property on North Shore Road, after spotting two suspects on video surveillance stealing items from the property.
Arriving officers located a suspicious vehicle in the area and when they pulled the vehicle over, the male driver exited the car and began to run into the cold snowy forest.
The female passenger remained on scene and was arrested without incident.
It took RCMP and a police tracking dog two hours to locate the man and once captured, he was transported to hospital for cold exposure.
Once medically cleared, he was brought to the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP detachment for a bail hearing.
The 36-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both from Ladysmith, are facing criminal charges related to the break and enter.
“The Lake Cowichan RCMP would like to remind recreational property owners to check their properties frequently throughout the year and to report any suspicious activity to police right away,” said RCMP Island District spokesman Cpl. Alex Bérubé.
That’s the question that BC-based Research Co.is asking Canadians.
The company conducted a survey of how Canadians feel about tipping in a restaurant environment and found that one-third feel the need to tip, even if the service was considered sub par.
Servers jobs are far from easy when a restaurant is busy. Most people take in their server’s performance, how busy the restaurant is, and the server’s tableside manner into account when they tip, says Research Co.
One thing to consider is that in Victoria–unlike the majority of Canada’s major cities–most restaurants pool all servers tips together, which some servers think removes the incentive to provide exceptional service because they don’t reap the benefits of their hard work.
Canadians from BC as well as the rest of Canada were asked a series of questions by the survey company and its findings may be surprising to some.
Tipping in a sit-down restaurant
Around one-third will leave a gratuity between 15% and 19% if they receive exceptional service that is not busy (37%), busy (34%) or extremely busy (32%). The business of the restaurant does influence the tip they leave but not by much, as the results of the survey show.
Similarly, one-third of Canadians said they would give a tip of 20% or higher if the service they receive from their server is exceptional in quality (between 34% and 36%).
Service that is good, but not amazing renders the server a tip between 15% and 19% if the restaurant is not busy (34%), busy (41%) or extremely busy (37%).
If average service was given by a server, about two-in-five (41%) said they would leave a tip between 10% and 14%.
28% of Canadians said they’d give a higher tip after receiving average service.
Surprisingly, about 36% of Canadians said they’d leave a lower tip (between 10% and 14%) to a server who’s clearly working in an understaffed environment, even though that server likely has nothing to do with the business’ staffing issues.
Lastly, Research Co. found that over three-in-ten say they would not leave a tip if they got bad service and their server clearly wasn’t busy.
“Two-in-five Canadians aged 55 and over (40%) would walk away from a sit-down restaurant without leaving a tip if they perceive that their server was idle and aloof,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co.
“The proportions are lower among Canadians aged 35-to-54 (29%) and aged 18-to-34 (24%).”
Tipping in a to-go situation
The survey found that over half of Canadians (54%) don’t think a tip is necessary when the server packs their food up as a to-go order.
For food delivery, over one-in-ten think they do not have to tip for delivery to them, and two-in five believe the tip range should be between 10% and 14% in delivery scenarios.
Some to-go businesses that almost half of Canadians say they never tip at are: coffee shops (43%) and cafeteria style restaurants (49%).
Millennials and Gen Z tend to tip more frequently
The Research Co. survey found that one-third (33%) of Canadians believe that servers in restaurants deserve a tip regardless of service quality. That statistic climbed to 51% with surveyees between the ages of 18 and 34-years-old.
67% of Canadians think servers don’t work for their tips anymore, they simply expect it.
Even more than that, 70% of Canadians agreed with the statement, “Food servers cannot get by on their salaries alone—it is important to tip them,” and 69% agreed that, ““If the salaries of food servers were better, there would be no need to tip servers.”
So, how do you base the size tip you’re going to leave? Let us know in the comment section below!
From guessing whether Victoria will have a white Christmas to which hospital will deliver the first baby of 2023, it seems as though anything can be bet on these days.
This year, online gambling website PlayNow.com has launched a new wager.
Bettors can wager on which BC hospital will deliver the first baby in the new year.
This year’s odds are in favour of BC Women’s Hospital (3.50) as it is currently one of the busiest maternity care centres in the province and it welcomed the first bundle of joy in 2021.
Other betting favourites include Surrey Memorial (5.00), which last delivered the first baby of the New Year in 2018, and New Westminster’s Royal Columbian Hospital (8.00).
Other odds to bet on include Victoria General Hospital (11.00), Kelowna General Hospital (18.00) and Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops (28.00) are also in the running.
Betting on which of BC’s 23 hospitals will welcome the first baby of 2023 will be available on PlayNow.com until 6 a.m. on December 31st.
According to recent statistics, the number of babies born in BC were down in 2022 with 37,801 being delivered between January 1st to December 8th. In 2021, the province saw 44,073 babies born.
Are you willing to put money down on BC’s first baby? Let us know!
As the new year approaches, some Victorians will begin fresh by hitting the gym, changing their diets, and cutting out alcohol—and mocktails are a perfect way to start!
If this is your time to give up the wobbly pops, mocktails are a great way to enjoy your favourite cocktails with friends, minus the liquor.
Enjoy the new year fresh at these 7 bars and restaurants offering mocktails in Greater Victoria.
Enjoy your time with family and friends with a classy mocktail at Wind Cries Mary. Here the bar is happy to serve creative non-alcoholic drink options that best suit your taste.
If you’re looking to order a mocktail to go. Softer Drink specializes in non-alcoholic cocktails on a wholesale basis to specialty retail shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Try out their ‘pina para la nina’ for a virgin piña colada inspired drink. Served with: pineapple, coconut cream, star anise, and lime.
Looking for a virgin drink with a bit more of a boost to it? Try Boom and Batten’s ‘boom cold brew’, with discovery cold brew, coconut cream, earl grey syrup, lavender cocoa nibs and coconut whipped cream.
Where: 2 Paul Kane Plaza
When: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
This bar is the hottest place to be when it comes to chic vibes and a lively youthful atmosphere.
Citrus & Cane features a wide selection of drinks, including alcoholic free drinks
Their spirit free menu includes sodas and zero proof cocktails such as their ‘like a lotus’ and tiki tea-tollaler. Come to Citrus & Cane for drinks that equally match in flavour and design.
Where: 1900 Douglas Street
When: Thursday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Police say Desorcy was last seen in downtown Victoria and was reported missing five days later on January 5th, 2021. Since that time he has been the subject of numerous missing person reports, according to police.
“To date, we have not been able to determine what happened to Tyler,” said Cst. Terri Healy in a statement regarding Desorcy’s investigation.
“Our investigation into Tyler’s disappearance is ongoing and we are asking for information from anyone who has not already spoken with investigators.”
Police describe Desorcy as an Indigenous man with dark brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5’9” tall, with a heavy build and he is known to walk with a noticeable limp.
Police ask that anyone who sees Desorcy to call 911 right away.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.
To make an anonymous report, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
December 30, 2022 marks the two-year anniversary of Tyler Desorcy’s disappearance. Our investigation into Tyler’s disappearance is ongoing and we are asking for information from anyone who has not already spoken with investigators. #yyjhttps://t.co/20PPzdoDqLpic.twitter.com/D0wcAzYcmO
It’s no secret that Vancouver Island singer Lauren Spencer-Smith is doing well in the music industry.
This weekend, Smith is set to perform during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2023.
Showcasing her latest singles Fingers Crossed and Flowers, the Nanaimo artist will perform alongside Grammy award-winning singer Ciara, indie pop band Fitz and The Tantrums, and country music duo Maddie and Tae.
The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Rob Fleming, says the new lanes are now completed and ready for use by BC Transit vehicles.
“These improvements mean better safety and faster transit service for people who live on the Saanich peninsula and for travellers who take the bus to the ferry or toward downtown Victoria,” said Fleming.
“The Pat Bay Highway is an important and heavily used transportation corridor on the south island, and I’m pleased that transit users will benefit from this project.”
(South Island Transportation Strategy)
In addition to the new lanes, the province has budgeted for new bus shelters to be installed for improved service to the Tsawout and Tsartlip First Nations as well as all transit riders along the corridor.
Improved safety for transit-riders was also taken into account at the Mount Newton Cross Road intersection. Signals have been added, as have new signs, road markings, new sidewalks and upgraded islands have all been considered and implemented.
President and CEO of BC Transit, Erinn Pinkerton, believes this initiative will increase transit-commuters by making the bus more convenient than taking a personal vehicle.
“Upgrades that prioritize transit, like these queue jump lanes, reduce commute times and increase convenience for people catching the bus,” said Pinkerton.
“We’re always looking for ways to encourage more people to choose public transit and better connect communities. These lanes will help reduce the number of cars on the road, which eases traffic congestion and makes nearby neighbourhoods more accessible.”
The $7.6 million project was a part of the government’s South Island Transportation Strategy.
If you’re looking for a baby name as unique as your precious little bundle of joy, you should check out the BC’s newly released list — and steer clear of anything on it.
With 2023 just hours away, many of the popular New Year’s Eve wrap-ups and traditions are well underway.
One of these provincial favourites is the annual list of most popular baby names born for the year in British Columbia.
And it has been released for 2022!
The data, collected by the Vital Statistics Agency preliminary figures, was collected from January 1st to December 8th 2022.
The top name for 2022 was Noah, beating out Olivia which took the top spot for the last several years.
Noah is followed by Olivia, Oliver, Liam, Theodore, Jack, Emma, Lucas, Leo and Sofia, according to the Vital Statistics Agency’s preliminary figures for 2022.
To celebrate the new beginnings of a new year, many people have also joined BCLC in guessing which hospital in BC the first baby will be born!
In 2021, the top names for babies born in BC were Olivia, Liam, Noah, Emma, Jack, Theodore, Benjamin, Charlotte, Oliver and Ava.
Only names that occur five or more times are listed.
This year, the number of babies born were down with 37,801 being delivered between January 1st to December 8th. 2021 saw 44,073 babies born in the province.
Click here to see the list of popular baby names in BC for previous years.
VicPD has blocked off Store Street between Fisgard Street and Herald Street in the heart of downtown Victoria following a hazmat incident.
Police officers are joined by Victoria Firefighters and the Capital Regional District’s (CRD) Hazmat team in an incident that VicPD has yet to disclose further details on.
As people exit the building, they can be seen getting sprayed by the CRD Hazmat crew.
VicPD are currently assisting Victoria Fire Department along with HAZMAT crews in an incident that has evacuated a building in the 400-block of Swift Street.
GVERT also on scene. Video shows someone from inside being sprayed down. Police say there is no danger to the public. pic.twitter.com/IuYoO1DRCA
Officers are on scene to assist @VictoriaFire730 & @crd_bc HAZMAT w a building evacuation in the 400-block of Swift St. It required #GVERT assistance as specialized training & equipment was needed. There is no risk to public safety. #yyj
A building has been evacuated in the 400-block of Swift Street and the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) have now joined the effort to control the situation.
VicPD says that GVERT joined their efforts because “specialized training and equipment was needed,” during the incident.
A witness tells Victoria Buzz that fire crews informed him the incident may have involved mustard gas, and that one individual was arrested on scene.
As the situation unfolds, Victoria Buzz will update this publication.
Police say there is no risk to the public at this time.
Thieves have stolen three beautiful works of art from downtown Victoria’s Madrona Gallery.
On Monday, December 26th (Boxing Day), just before 7:45 a.m. a sole thief broke into the Madrona Gallery space through its Trounce Alley entrance.
The thief was calculated in their maneuvering of the space and Brittany Lee, Madrona’s Gallery Manager believes they knew exactly what they were after.
“They had taken three inuit carvings,” Lee told Victoria Buzz. “It appears to be a targeted theft because what they went after was very specific and quick as well.”
The thief smashed through the glass door and unlocked the deadbolt to gain entry. They were dressed in baggy black clothing from head to toe with a hat and a headlamp to distort camera footage and hide their facial features.
Madrona Art Gallery in Trounce Alley was broken into on Boxing Day resulting in more than $42,000 in irreplaceable carvings being stolen. See link below for story. #victoriabuzz#yyjpic.twitter.com/o13Mmvmz4w
Upon breaking the glass and entering the space, the gallery’s alarm went off and VicPD was alerted. Police were on the scene very quickly and the Gallery Director arrived within 10 minutes, but the thief was gone after just two minutes inside the gallery, according to Lee.
The thief had large black bags and was able to carry all three carvings out of the gallery when collectively they would have weighed between 60 and 70 pounds.
“Two of the three carvings are very rare,” said Lee. “They were done by artists who have long passed away and were very important in terms of Inuit art history and their contribution to Inuit art.”
“They’re just irreplaceable.”
(Madrona Gallery)
According to Lee, this was the first break in at Madrona in around 12 years, and only the second theft since the gallery opened its doors.
“The other break in happened around the time the gallery opened and they only took a computer from the desk, so this has a very different feeling than the first one,” Lee told Victoria Buzz.
The smashed door was replaced shortly after the break in occurred so the gallery staff can be assured the artwork displayed inside the gallery is safe once more.
In addition to replacing the door, Lee says that additional security measures are already being implemented in the gallery.
“You do the best you can but when you look at it after the fact, you think, ‘oh, okay, this is a vulnerable point and so is this.’”
“It definitely makes you re-evaluate what you had in place before and how to go forward,” said Lee.
The community has been supporting Madrona Gallery since the theft by coming by and sharing their sympathy for the gallery and the loss of three beautiful art pieces.
“With this sort of thing, I think galleries tend to keep quiet when they do happen but because of the scale of some of these items and the rarity, we ultimately want to have them back.”
“We’ve had a really great outpouring of support from the community which has made this a little bit more positive than the crummy situation that it is.”
Any piece of art that comes through the galley’s doors is insured by Madrona Gallery. Two of the pieces are owned by the gallery but are irreplaceable and one is there on consignment which Lee says Madrona will take a hit on should it not be returned.
The art gallery has put forth a reward for the pieces should they be returned in good condition. They will pay $1,000 per carving if they are found and brought back to the gallery.
VicPD currently has an open investigation into the break in and theft.
Police are asking that anyone with information on the break in, the whereabouts of the carvings or who may be responsible, call VicPD at (250) 995-7645.
To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
You’ve made it to the end of the week and while it might be a bit gloomy out there, that’s okay, because there are plenty of fun events happening throughout Victoria for you to enjoy!
From a highly anticipated Royals hockey game to hip-hop karaoke. Here are five things to do in and around Victoria this Friday, December 30th:
The Royals and Giants will face off for the third and final time this week on Friday, December 30th in Victoria. The puck-drop is set for 7:05 p.m. at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
Where: Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
Winner of five Academy Awards, including best picture, The Sound of Music returns in December to the Vic Theatre!
Set against the most beautiful alpine scenery, sing along with Maria (Julie Andrews) and the rest of the Von Trapp crew. Add your voice to music by Rodgers and Hammerstein and escape to a wonderland of uplifting spirituality.
Habitat for Humanity Victoria’s premier fundraiser, The Gingerbread Showcase is opening for its 14th year! Located in the atrium of the Parkside Hotel & Spa, the event will run from November 26th to January 2nd.
Stop by this local holiday treasure to view the fantastic 100% edible creations made by volunteer bakers, and don’t forget to donate to vote for your favourite! This year, they’ve asked bakers to interpret some magic into their creations with the theme: “Magical.”
100% of donations to the Gingerbread Showcase will help Habitat Victoria support affordable homeownership in Victoria.
Can’t make it in person to see these amazing creations? View and vote for your favourite creation online.
Comox Valley RCMP arrested a man following two separate incidents with the same stolen truck in early December.
At around 8:30 a.m. on December 4th, police received a call reporting that more than one “sketchy male” was trying to free a truck stuck in a ditch on the Inland Island Highway in the area of Union Bay.
Police say the individual who called in the report said the men were using inadequate cables in their efforts to free the truck and were using potentially dangerous methods.
When officers arrived on scene, two men were able to quickly get the truck out of the ditch and they fled the area. A licence plate check of the truck revealed thatit did not belong to that vehicle.
According to police, an RCMP officer attempted to stop the truck but decided to back off due to the driver’s dangerous driving.
The next day, on December 5th at approximately 3 p.m., Comox Valley RCMP received another report of suspicious activity which was again in the Union Bay area.
(Google Maps)
When police arrived on scene, they determined the same truck from the prior day’s incident was involved.
Police say they placed the driver under arrest, however he was able to break free and fled, assaulting an officer in the process.
According to police, he was eventually stopped and taken into custody following a short altercation.
The investigation so far shows that this man was wanted on several warrants and the truck was in fact reported stolen.
“This man is in custody and the stolen vehicle has been recovered because of the people who took the time to call us,” said Cst. Monika Terragni, Media Relations Officer, Comox Valley RCMP.
Comox Valley RCMP encourage the public to call them whenever suspicious activity is occurring in the area.
The Soul Shakers have entertained Victoria area audiences for more than a decade with their own brand of funky R&B dance music. They combine superb musicianship with five strong vocalists led by lead vocalist Joyce “the voice” Allensen.
There is no doubt they are one of the best dance bands on Vancouver Island!
Their show is undeniably entertaining and audience engaging led by powerhouse front person Joyce Allensen. The band includes Henning Kanstrup (bass), Sean McCool (guitars), Paul McLellan (drums) and Alexander B. Ferguson ( keyboards).
Saturday nights are the biggest night of the week down at The Duke Saloon. Come on down and witness incredible live music in one of Victoria’s premier venues. You won’t regret it.
Sharing a passion for Yoga and Sound, Dawn and her husband Craig have created a unique immersive experience.
Craig mixes music and sound live while Dawn leads a Flow followed by Yin and Yoga Nidra; the practice is coupled with electronic music, natural sounds, visceral tonal vibrations, delta waves and binaural beats to stimulate your senses and facilitate mind-body integration.
Come ring in the New Year at Starlight Lights of Wonder in Centennial Square!
There will be two countdowns to the New Year:
9 p.m. – Want to celebrate the New Year and have the kids in bed before midnight? The 9 p.m. countdown is perfect for families (or just those of us who like to go to bed early)
12 p.m. – We are honouring traditional New Year’s and closing out Lights of Wonder for the year with a countdown to midnight!
Whether you choose the 9 p.m. or the 12 p.m. countdown, wear your shiniest, sparkliest, brightest outfits! Glow sticks and prizes will be handed out throughout the night!
The 360-degree camera will be on site with some fun accessories, so you can get the coolest videos of your friends/family.
Where: Centennial Square
When: Saturday, December 31st, 7:15 p.m. to 12 p.m.
The Empress has played hostess to numerous grand balls over the years. In 1919, Edward Prince of Wales waltzed the night away in the iconic Crystal Ballroom.
Be part of a grand tradition and eloquently ring in the New Year in Fairmont Empress’ historic Crystal Ballroom.
This year, in classic formal fashion, Fairmont Empress’ New Year’s Eve Event will involve black-tie attire, cocktails upon arrival, live entertainment and a four-course seated dinner.
You’ve waited for this: now it’s time to gather those who mean the most to you and share an experience like no other.
Where: Fairmont Empress Hotel, 721 Government Street
Fusing two fresh-off-the-mountain electronic music addicts, Tim and Dave together
Hailing from the ski town of Whistler, this dynamic duo loves shredding the ski hill almost as much as they love smashing out hit records in the studio.
Producing and performing together for over 6 years, Tim and Dave feed off their high energy live shows. Featuring everything from funky bassline house to black-diamond twerk.
Guests will be transported back to the magic of the Roaring 20’s, a time when footloose flappers danced the Charleston, gamblers tried their luck at the roulette table, and everyone drank free-flowing bootlegged booze.
This evening of good times and amazing food and drink will be held via a secret password revealed two days beforehand.
Where: Saturday, December 31st, 5 p.m.
When: The Collective – Wine Bar & Kitchen, 230 Cook Street
Join the folks at the Irish Times Pub before 4 p.m. for Irish New Year’s featuring Black Angus playing live at 3:30 p.m.The Prowl takes the stage at 9:30 p.m.
Ring in the new year at the Upstairs Lounge. On Saturday night, celebrate in style with a fine multi-course buffet style dinner and dancing to Victoria’s best R&B band, Big Hank and The Kingpins!
Celebrate the last evening of the year with our annual New Year’s Eve Champagne Dinner!
Guests are invited to join Executive Chef Kreg Graham as he presents and pours a special selection of Champagnes, each thoughtfully paired with a different culinary delight using locally sourced ingredients.
Reservations are required, 1 ticket per person, 2 to 6 guests per party.
Celebrated for her resplendent vocal timbre, exceptional musicality and unparalleled dramatic instincts, the Vancouver native is establishing herself as one of the most exciting emerging artists in the opera world.
Ms. Osborne was one of the youngest Grand Prize winners in the history of the Metropolitan Opera National Council auditions and has gone on to debut on opera and concert stages across the globe.
The Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department hosts their annual Polar Bear Swim at Whiffin Spit. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with a cannon start at noon!
When: Saturday, January 1st, 11:30 a.m. registration. 12 p.m. swim
This 10,251 square foot single family home has been assessed at a massive $13 million and features 3 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. As of 2023, unfortunately, the home is not listed for sale.
This custom-designed home is also worth nearly $13 million and is surrounded by lush forests and gardens. To name a few of the highlights, it features a private beach and boat launch, eight bathrooms, a yoga studio, an infinity pool, an underground wine cellar as well as a private theatre. 
The Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department hosts their annual Polar Bear Swim at Whiffin Spit. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with a cannon start at noon!
