Friday, March 29, 2024

61 things to do this Christmas Season in and around Victoria!

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The holidays are a wonderful time of the year to see and experience all that Victoria has to offer. With so much going on and special sights, we have curated a list of Greater Victoria’s best holiday events for you to enjoy!

For more things happening around town, check out our events calendar.

1. 25th Annual Festival of Trees

  • What: For the past 24 years the Festival of Trees has created a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise much-needed funds for BC Children’s Hospital. The festival knits together the incredibly generous community of Victoria in what has become, over the last two decades, a cherished holiday tradition and the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in the city. Victoria Buzz are proud media sponsors of this event.
  • When: Friday, Nov 16, 2016 – January 5, 2016
  • Where:  The Bay Centre and The Fairmont Empress

2. Bears on the Move – A Teddy Bear Christmas

  • What: Hundreds of Teddy Bears will be invading Sidney Museum for the Christmas season. They will be getting up to their usual antics, but this year they will be travelling! Up, Up and Away in a hot air balloon, or riding in an airplane or even taking the train. A special feature this year is the beautiful and gentle art of Erin Vanessa that will compliment the displays with painted scenes of teddy bears on their travels. This is an annual ‘must’ for all the family.
  • When:  Nov 16 – Dec 31, 2016, open 10AM – 4PM daily
  • Where: Sidney Museum,  2423 Beacon Ave, Sidney
  • Admission: By donation 

3. 7th Annual Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase

  • What: More than just a house, these are “sweet” masterpieces! This event brings together professionals and amateur chefs from across Canada, dazzling visitors with their skills. Vote for your favourite and make a donation to Habitat for Humanity Victoria. This year’s theme is “Around the World” and bakers are encouraged to let their creativity lead the way, whether it is finding inspiration in travel, traditions and cultures, or adventures with friends. Victoria Buzz are proud to be one of this year’s official judges.
  • When: Nov. 19, 2016 and runs until Jan. 2, 2017, with viewing from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
  • Where: Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal St

4. Little Gems Holiday Art and Craft Fair

  • What: Presented by The Community Arts Council of Greater Victoria, all the works of art are under $300. Find something unique for Christmas – sculpture, art cards, prints, painting, photography and more, while supporting local artists!
  • When: Nov 19-Dec 18, 2016
  • Where: The Bay Centre, 636 Fort Street

5. The Bear Mountain Skating Rink

  • What: Decorated for the holidays and located in the resort’s backyard, the Bear Mountain skating rink is perfect place to build memories with your friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Come skate outdoors and take in the best views in Victoria! (Weather dependent)
  • When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 – Sunday, Jan 8, 2017. Open until 9:00 pm. This year, a special addition – the Fire Lounge and Adults only skate times! Saturday nights in December from 8PM to 10PM, the music is turned up and the bar is open – it’s a perfect spot for a date!
  • Where: Bear Mountain Resort, 1999 Country Club Way
  • Admission: $5 per person, which includes skate rental if needed. (limited skates available)

6. Marina Light Up

  • What: Don’t miss the many colourful boats in the Inner Harbour lit in a vibrant display of Christmas lights! Festive lights and decor will also adorn the Inner Harbour, Wharf Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf Marinas. Lights will be lit through the end of December.
  • When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016  to Saturday, Dec 31, 2016, dusk-11:30PM
  • Where: Inner Harbour, Wharf Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf Marinas.

7. Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade

  • What: Begin your Christmas Season in Victoria with the magical Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade! Floats and bands, entertainment and lots of fun for the entire family. Head to Centennial Square to see the Christmas Tree Light-Up and witness SANTA OFFICIALLY DECLARE CHRISTMAS IN VICTORIA OPEN!
  • When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 parade begins at 5:45PM in front of Legislature, heads along Government St to Chatham St
  • Where: Government Street, Downtown Victoria

8. 9th Annual Centennial Square Christmas Tree Light-Up

  • What: Join the DVBA, City of Victoria and the Greater Victoria Festival Society to kick-off the holiday season in Centennial Square. Enjoy musical performances, eat at a food truck or two, enjoy the Centennial Inn, ride the Ferris Wheel, and watch as thousands of lights are switched on at 7:30PM to create a Winter Wonderland. For the first time, Santa will also be joining for the Light-Up – so come after the Island Farms Santa Light Parade, and meet him before he goes back to work at the North Pole.
  • When: Saturday, Nov 26, 2016 – 6PM-9:30PM. Tree light-up at 7:30PM.
  • Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria

9. DVBA Ferris Wheel in Centennial Square

  • What: The Ferris Wheel is back this holiday season! Witness the lights of Centennial Square and Downtown Victoria from 20 metres up. Grab a snack from local food vendors, enjoy holiday entertainment, try out the audio-reactive tree, meet Santa, and snap a picture with the Polar Bear and the Ferris Wheel photo backdrop.
  • When: Saturday, Nov 26 – Friday, Dec 23, 2016. Check the DVBA website for exact times and dates. Ferris Wheel will not operate in inclement weather.
  • Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria
  • Admission: Rides are $3 or $2/5. New this year, spend $10 or more at a participating downtown business and receive a voucher to ride the Ferris Wheel for $1 (while supplies last). Height restrictions may apply.

10. The Oak Bay Christmas Festival Light Up

  • What: Musical entertainment, street food, roasted chestnuts, bouncy castle, street hockey, crafts and games and and thousands of lights will be turned on throughout the Village. Santa Claus will also arrive on an Oak Bay Fire Truck.
  • When: Sunday, Nov 27, 2016 from 2PM, onstage entertainment begins at 3PM, lights come on at 5PM. The light-up concludes on Saturday, Dec 3, 2016.
  • Where: Oak Bay Village

11. Free Horse-Drawn Trolley Tours

  • What: Enjoy a classic downtown tradition with your family this holiday season for FREE! Every weekend, horse-drawn trolleys will circulate throughout downtown making it an enjoyable experience for you as you take in the festive sights and sounds of the holidays. The trolleys are a unique way to tour the downtown or take a scenic break while you rest your weary feet.
  • When: Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2016; Saturdays & Sundays 11AM-3PM
  • Where: Pre-set trolley routes throughout the downtown with 4 stops at:

A: Store St. at Chatham St. – In front of Capital Iron
B: Johnson St. near Wharf St. – In front of Willie’s Bakery
C: Langley St. at Bastion Sq. – Across from Re-Bar
D: Government St. at Fisgard St. – In front of CRD Plaza

12. Christmas Carollers

  • What: Listen for your holiday favorites in Downtown Victoria as carollers roam the streets bringing tidings and good cheer.
  • When: Nov 27 – Dec 20, 2016, Saturdays 11AM-3PM & Sundays noon-4PM.
  • Where: Downtown Victoria

13. 16th Annual Bear Wear

  • What: A beloved holiday tradition and annual fundraiser for the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. A wonderful festive display of cuddly bears dressed up in costumes by local sponsors, business, organizations, and individuals. Victoria Buzz are proud media sponsors of this event. 
  • When: Monday, Nov 28 to Monday, January 2, 2017
  • Where: Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St

14. The Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens 2016

  • What: Christmas lights, holiday wreaths, carollers, festive dining & skating all taking this at the gardensthis coming holiday season. The Magic of Christmas Light Up Ceremony is on December 1 at 5PM. Visit the Magic of Christmas calendar here for all details.
  • When: Thursday, Dec 1, 2016 – Tuesday Jan 6, 2017.
  • Where: The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave

15. Christmas Craft Beer Show

  • What: The Christmas Craft Beer Show will showcase many fantastic local micro-breweries, and let everyone gather together to display their seasonal products as well as their brewery favorites. Dont miss out on an event that is surely going to satisfy all beer lovers and food and beverage professionals ahead of the holiday season! More information here.
  • When: Friday, Dec 2, 5PM-9PM, Saturday, Dec 3, 1PM-5PM
  • Where: Save On Foods Memorial Centre

16. Kick-Off to Christmas Merchants Open House

  • What: The Sidney Merchants Open House launches the holiday season with multiple activities and treats designed to tickle the fancy of even the most Grinch-like family member. There will be FREE horse-drawn carriage rides, the Linden Singers performing traditional storybook Christmas carols, beautiful shop windows, and more!
  • When: Friday, Dec 2, 2016, 5PM-9PM
  • Where: Various Merchants Downtown Sidney

17. Sea of Lights Lighted Ship Parade

  • What: Enjoy the Royal Victoria Yacht Club’s annual sea of lights parade! There will be a bonfire and hot chocolate at Willows beach, and hot chocolate at Cadboro Bay.
  • When: Friday, Dec 2, 2016, 6:30PM.
  • Where: Approx times 7PM Cattle Point; 7:15PM Willows Beach; 7:45PM Gyro Park.

18. The 36th Annual Dickens Fair

  • What: Handmade and homemade items to provide an appealing array of over 70 quality vendors with gift choices at affordable prices for the public. A children’s craft space, music, a café and artisanal food products complement this traditional event. Last year over 1300 people attended! A Victoria Tradition for 36 years!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3 at 10AM – 5PM
  • Where: James Bay Community School Centre, 140 Oswego Street
  • Admission: $2, children under 12 free
  • What: Celebrate Christmas at the Market! Find everything you need for under the tree, and on the table! There will be lots of local artisans selling their goods, plus the delicious food at the permanent vendors! Bring your little one, and your camera, and take some FREE photos with Santa! You, and your kids, will be able to sit on Santa’s knee and tell him your Christmas wish, along with snapping a few pictures with him! Cookie decorating will be available.
  • When: Santa will be set up on the Upper Level of the Market, in front of Bumble and Hive Play Centre on Saturday Dec 3, Dec 10, and Dec 17 from 12pm – 3pm.
  • Where: Victoria Public Market at the Hudson, 6-1701 Douglas Street

20. Breakfast with Santa – Sidney

  • What: Save the date for the Peninsula Celebrations Society’s annual Breakfast with Santa! A delicious Pancake Breakfast will be served by the Sidney Lion’s Club. Face painting by Susi Sunshine and there will also be photos with Santa (by donation)!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3, 2016, at 8:30AM with Santa arriving at 9AM.
  • Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue
  • Admission: $7 per adult and $5 for children under 12. Tickets at the door.

21. Breakfast with Santa – Bear Mountain

  • What: Santa is stopping by Bear Mountain to have breakfast with your family!  Be swept into the spirit of the season including the Westin Christmas Breakfast buffet, Christmas cookie decorating for the kids and every child gets a chance to sit on Santa’s lap and pose with their family for a photo. Book early, this event sells out every year.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3 and Sunday Dec 4, 10AM-12PM
  • Where: Bear Mountain Resort, 1999 Country Club Way
  • Admission: Adult (18 yrs old +) $39.10 plus tax; 13 – 17 yrs old $24.15 plus tax; 6 – 12 yrs old $16.10 plus tax; 5 & under free. Buy tickets here.

22. 12th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas Tree Trail

  • What: Start at 9am with Pancake Breakfast with Santa at St. Mary’s Church. Have your photo taken with Santa with a donation to the food bank. Wander over to Pioneer Square for the Christmas Winter Market. There will be music provided by Knackers Yard. Find local crafters, artisans, bakers and food producers all selling their wares. Take a horse drawn carriage ride through the village or walk the Christmas Tree Trail with a map.  Check out all the local business that have entered the Christmas Tree contest. Vote on the best decorated tree. You get your map stamped at each business and you may even find a nice little treat awaiting you!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3, 9AM-1PM
  • Where: In the heart of the Saanichton Village. Breakfast with Santa will be at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 1973 Cultra Ave, Saanichton.
  • Admission: This is a FREE Christmas event. Drop off your donations to the Sidney Lions Food Bank, 9586 5th St, Sidney.

23. Creative Holiday Fair

  • What: McTavish Academy Of Art is hosting its very first Creative Holiday Fair celebrating local artisans. There will be many creative vendors, local artisans, live music, hot food and drinks by Hungry Rooster & much more. Find that perfect creative gift!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3, 12-7PM and Sunday Dec 4, 10AM-4PM
  • Where: McTavish Academy Of Art, 1720 McTavish Rd

24. Ogden Point Light Up and Christmas Market

  • What: Enjoy an afternoon filled with holiday music and kids activities. Spend some time with Santa and get your holiday picture by donation. Find the perfect Christmas gift among the local vendor offerings and treat yourself to tasty snacks and hot chocolate. Stay until dusk and watch Ogden Point and the Truck Convoy as they light up with thousands of Christmas lights. Bring your non-perishable food items and cash donations to support the Mustard Seed and local food banks.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3, 2016, 2PM-6PM.
  • Where: Ogden Point, 199 Dallas Road

25. IEOA Truck Light Convoy & Food Drive

  • What: Help Support the Local Food Bank by heading out to the streets on Dec 3rd, and watching a convoy of festive trucks roll by. Bring the entire family to enjoy the holiday tradition, as it rolls through your neighbourhood!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 3 at 6:30PM-8:30PM
  • Where: For route and timing see map here.

26. Winter Wonderland on the Veranda

  • What: Cuddle up with loved ones out on the Veranda. Warm blankets will be provided, alongside an offering of hot beverages such as hot chocolate, mulled wine or even a shot of absinthe. Christmas bites like stollen and cookies will help to bring the warm and fuzzy feeling of a winter wonderland to life.
  • When: Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24: 3PM-8PM
  • Where: On the Veranda, Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St

27. Santa Claus Brunch Series

  • What: Back by popular demand , is our Santa Claus Brunch, where kids can eat, meet and snap a photo with Jolly Old Saint Nick himself. Start a new tradition by bringing the whole family down to relax and spend some time together on the ever-gorgeous harbourside Terrace Ballroom. Fee and reservations information here.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4; Sunday, Dec 11; Sunday, December 18. Brunch seatings available between 11AM-2PM.
  • Where: The Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal Street

28. The Nerdy Days of Christmas Craft Fair

  • What: Swing on by and check out the geeky cool stuff made by local artisans. Pick up gifts and stocking stuffers or maybe a little something for yourself. Participate in the silent auction with all proceed going to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation. Enter to win a basket of fabulous door prizes.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4, 11AM – 4PM
  • Where: 638 Fisgard Street
  • Admission: By donation with 100% of the proceeds going to Victoria Hospitals Foundation. Kids can come on down for free.

29. 10th Annual Carol-Along with the Carillon

  • What: Gather on the upper courtyard of the Royal BC Museum with your fellow singers, family, friends and pooch. Guest carillonneur, Jon Lehrer will accompany the Newcombe Choir below in a one of a kind carolling party. Hot chocolate and cookies help to make the season bright.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4, 4:30PM – 5:15PM
  • Where: Carillon Tower, Royal BC Museum
  • Admission: FREE

30. Esquimalt Celebration of Lights Parade

  • What: Lots of floats, lighted vehicles and musical groups, and of course lights! This free event is a community celebration supported by volunteers, Esquimalt’s Business Community and the Township. The event includes a parade, light up of the Esquimalt Plaza, Memorial Park, Municipal Hall\Library. Entertainment and refreshments.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4, 2016, 5PM-7PM
  • Where: Parade Route: At 5:00 pm, the parade begins on Canteen Road and proceeds on Esquimalt Road, and finally to Archie Browning Centre where you’ll find fun for the whole family.

31. Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade

  • What: Grab a hot chocolate or your favourite warm beverage, then line up along Beacon Avenue and Second Street to get a terrific view of the annual Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade starting at 5PM. Keep your eyes out for the Jolly Old Elf – Santa himself riding atop the Sidney Fire Department truck. Then immediately following, head to the waterfront to view the parade of lighted in boats in the annual Sailpast of Lighted Boats that lights up the coastline from Port Sidney to Tulista Park! (The Lighted Boat Parade is weather dependent.)
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4, 2016, parade begins at 5PM
  • Where: Beacon Avenue, Sidney

32. ICC 4th Annual Christmas Shaker

  • What: An extraordinary cocktail party with a festive theme. Hosted by Victoria’s best bartenders and chefs; showcasing Victoria’s award winning cocktail scene and the culinary prowess of the talented ICC chefs in our region. Barkeeps from the city’s most unique establishments will craft, mix, and shake an exciting variety of both classic and innovative libations for your enjoyment. Delicious canapes prepared with the finest local ingredients will be served to pair with the tasty concoctions, and live music with The Broken Strings will play throughout the night.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 4, 2016, 7PM-11PM
  • Where: Ogden Point – Inside Pier A Building, 189 Dallas Road
  • Admission: $50+GST, 19+ event. Tickets available here.

33. 16th Annual Classical Christmas Concert

  • What: A celebration of the Canadian holiday season in song with The Victoria Children’s Choir – 90 students in Concert, Recital, and Prelude ensembles, as well as alumni singers; The Victoria Baroque Players; Men from the St. Christopher Singers. Singing Schubert’s Mass in G major, winter carols, traditional music, new compositions, and sing-a-long songs from Canada and around the world. Yep Everyone welcome.
  • When: Monday, Dec 5, 2016, 7pm-9pm
  • Where: Christ Church Cathedral, 930 Burdett Ave
  • Admission: TICKETS: $20, ORDER ONLINE, or purchase at Christ Church Catedral, Ivy’s Bookshop, or at the door. (Children age seven and younger free)

34. Christmas Starlight Cinema

  • What:  A Victoria family tradition! Watch holiday movies shown on the Delta’s beautiful Harbour Patio. Please bring a lawn chair. Heaters and Hot Chocolate will be provided and everyone will move inside if it rains!
  • When: All movies start at 6PM.
    December 6 – A Christmas Story
    December 7 – Ice Age
    December 13 – Elf
    December 14 – Home Alone
    December 20 – Polar Express
    December 21 – It’s a Wonderful Life
  • Where: Delta Hotels Ocean Pointe Resort, 100 Harbour Road
  • Admission: FREE ADMISSION – donations to Santa’s Anonymous are greatly appreciated.

35. Colwood Christmas Light Up

  • What: Join the community celebration when City Hall officially lights up for the Christmas season! Reconnect with friends and neighbours while you enjoy musical performances by local groups. Come for a hot chocolate provided by Bitez Sandwich Bar, hot dogs supplied and grilled by the Red Barn Market BarnBQ and tasty treats courtesty of Royal Bay Bakery! There will be fun craft activities for kids, led by volunteers from West Shore Parks and Recreation to keep them busy while they eagerly await Santa’s arrival by fire truck.
  • When: Wednesday, Dec 7th, 2016, 6PM-8PM
  • Where: Colwood City Hall 3300 Wishart Road

36. Esquimalt’s Live Christmas Tree Village

  • What: Experience the magic of the holidays in the Third Annual Living Christmas Tree Village! Over 40 trees decorated by local businesses and community groups will fill the Esquimalt Recreation Centre and the Archie Browning Sports Centre. Be sure to vote for your favourite. Your vote doubles as a draw prize entry; draws to take place at random throughout the month of December. The winning tree will receive an Esquimalt Recreation prize package valued at $500. There is no cost to view trees.
  • When: Dec 8-26, 2016.
  • Where: 
    • Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street: 5:30AM-10:30PM
    • Archie Browning Sports Centre, 1151 Esquimalt Road: 8AM-9PM

37. Moss Street Holiday Market

  • What: The annual Holiday Market features 80 vendors selling bath products, cards, calendars, clothing, jewelry, pottery, glassworks, art, toys, preserves, baked goods, winter vegetables, pasta, chocolates, meats, fish, hot food, beer, wine, cider, and so much more.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 10, and Sunday, Dec 11; 10AM-4PM
  • Where: Sir James Douglas School & Fairfield Community Centre (1330 Fairfield Road)

38. Last Chance Christmas Craft Show

  • What:  A wide selection of handcrafted items meeting the highest standards of the finest arts and crafts available on the West Coast of BC. Pottery, metal works, sculptures, wood working, glass and yarn works, weaving, body & skin care, jewelry and sweet & savoury treats. Admission $4 which covers access to both days, along with hourly door prizes from vendors. Children Under 12 FREE. Tickets only at door.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 10, 10AM-5PM and Sunday, Dec 11, 10AM-4PM
  • Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue

39. Father Christmas in Old Town

  • What: Savour the sights and sounds of Christmas in Old Town, bedecked in seasonal finery. Visit with Father Christmas and have your photo taken and share your holiday wishes.
  • When: Santa will be in town Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in December (2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 & 18) from 11AM to 3PM.
  • Where: Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville St
  • Cost: Included with admission or membership. Photo by donation.

40. Tuba Christmas Victoria

  • What: A tradition that began in New York City’s Rockefeller Centre some 40 years ago; more than 65 tuba players from across BC and the Pacific Northwest come together to play much loved Christmas songs in a big way!
  • When: Saturday, Dec 10, 1PM-3PM
  • Where: Market Square

41. This Little Light

  • What: This holiday season Belfry Theatre brings you this melodious musical as a staged presentation. A beautiful way to celebrate the season and a special way to experience this brand new musical play, written specifically for Victoria and Fernwood. Starring members of the Canadian College of the Performing Arts’ Company C, local school choirs and other special guests.
  • When: Dec 10-23, 2016Showtimes here
  • Where: Belfry Theare, 1291 Gladstone Ave

42. Tales of a Charlie Brown Christmas

  • What: A beloved Christmas classic is coming to Victoria. Vince Guaraldi and his new trio together with the Victoria Children’s Choir, brings the spirit of Christmas to life through stunning music and charming holiday tales.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 10, 2016, 8PM
  • Where: Dave Dunnet Community Theatre, 2121 Cadboro Bay Road
  • Admission:  tickets $39

43. Festive music at Craigdarroch Castle

  • What: Craigdarroch Castle’s halls will ring with the sound of festive music this holiday season. Musicians ranging from jazz artists to medieval folk groups to classical cellists to Celtic bands will perform. Enjoy the castle beautifully decorated for the holidays while taking in the sweet sounds.
  • When: December 10, 11 and 17-24 at 11AM and 3PM
  • Where: Craigdarroch Castle, 1050 Joan Crescent
  • Admission: The performances are free with Castle admission.

44. Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular

  • What: A celebration of Christmas as well as an extravaganza of music and dance, lights and decorations, laughter and tears. Now in it’s 10th year, this year’s singing and dancing extravaganza will include new broadway hits, classical songs and Christmas favourites, as well as musical tributes to Johnny Cash, June Carter, Ella Fitzgerald and the Village People. Elvis will once again grace the stage and the sights and sounds of Abba will be back by popular demand. Enjoy the old classic White Christmas as well as beautiful arrangements of Schubert’s Ave Maria and Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 10 at 3PM and 7PM; and Sunday, Dec 11 at 3PM
  • Where: McPherson Playhouse, #3 Centennial Square
  • Admission:  tickets $49

45. It’s a Wonderful Night!

  • What: Come for an intimate Christmas concert as Daniel Lapp and friends perform all your Christmas favourites. VIP tickets include confirmed table seating in the front row and wine and cheese welcome reception.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 11, 2016, 7PM – 9:30PM
  • Where: Bear Mountain Resort, 1999 Country Club Way
  • Admission: $35-$75, tickets available at here.

46. 4th Annual Metchosin Light Parade

  • What: Fire Trucks and Emergency Services vehicles will be decorated for the Christmas season with bright lights and decorations as they make their way through the streets of Metchosin. Visit Metchosin Fire Dept website for approximate times and route.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 11, 2016 6PM–8PM
  • Where: Metchosin Fire Hall, 4440 Happy Valley Rd

47. Jon and Roy Holiday Special

  • What: It’s that time of the year for another Holiday Special with roots/folk rock band Jon and Roy! This is an all ages show.
  • When: Sunday, Dec 11, 2016, 7PM
  • Where: Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora Ave
  • Admission: $26, available here and in-person at Lyle’s Place.

48. Stories with Santa

  • What: Cozy up with Santa Claus for an afternoon of heartwarming Christmas stories, including a reading of Island Santa, the story of a little boy who catches a ride with Santa on his boat and travels from island to island delivering gifts to children in need of cheer. Those in attendance will be entered to win a copy of Island Santa, written and illustrated by the award-winning, local duo, Sheryl McFarlane and Sheena Lott.
  • When: Sunday, Dec. 11 , 2016, 2PM and 3PM
  • Where: Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St

49. CBC Radio & Our Place present ‘A Christmas Carol’

  • What: CBC & Our Place Society present a reading of Dickens’ Classic Tale, ‘A Christmas Carol’ featuring Shelagh Rogers, Bob McDonald, Arthur Black & more With Louise Rose & the Open Door Choir at Our Place leading the audience in a Christmas Carol sing-a-long.
  • When: Monday, Dec 12, 2016, doors 6:30PM, show 7PM
  • Where: First Met United Church, 932 Balmoral Rd
  • Admission: Tickets $17.50, children $5.

50. Christmas Light Run

  • What: Join Frontrunners for a fun 5km run through the residential streets of Saanich to see all the Christmas Lights and decorations. There will be a hot chocolate/eggnog and cookie aid station along the course, plus warm beverages and snacks after the event!
  • When: Wednesday, Dec 14, 2016, 6:30PM
  • Where: Frontrunners Shelbourne, 3659 Shelbourne St
  • Admission: The event is free with donation of either food or toys or money to the local charity, CFAX Santas Anonymous. For every toy or 3 food items donated, the participant will receive one raffle ticket to win a FREE pair of shoes! Prizes will also be awarded for the best holiday costume!

51. Carols and Cocoa

  • What: Let the bright sound of the Alumni Company from the Canadian College of Performing Arts fill your heart with joy, as they perform beloved Christmas carols and jingles. Lyrics will be provided to you so you may join in. The Hotel Grand Pacific will serve complimentary cocoa and hot drinks to warm your fingers and toes. Be sure to vote for your favorite bear at the Bear Wear Event and help a good cause!
  • When: Thursday, Dec. 15 , 2016, 6:30PM, 7PM, 7:30PM.
  • Where: Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St

52. A Christmas Carol

  • What: Once again Craigdarroch Castle will be home to Jason Steven’s popular one-man production of Charles Dickens’ 1843 classic, A Christmas Carol. Stevens’ presents the tale of ghosts, regret, love and Christmas redemption in an hour-long intimate performance set in the Castle’s Dance Hall. Stevens’ tour-de-force performance has become a much loved classic event at the castle.
  • When: Friday, Dec 16 and Saturday, Dec 17 at 7PM. Dec 20-23 at 6:00PM and 8:00PM. Suitable for ages 13 and up. Patrons are invited to arrive early and tour the Castle.
  • Where: Craigdarroch Castle, 1050 Joan Crescent
  • Admission: Tickets are just $20 for adults ($18 for members) and available by calling (250) 592-5323.

53. Santa Scoot

  • What: Come and see Santa ride a scooter! A parade of Vespas and vintage scooters will make their way through city streets collecting donations, then rally at Market Square for a pizza party. One dollar from every pizza sold at Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria will go to charity. There will be lots of prizes and surprises. Come see the bikes and enjoy a pizza.
  • When: Saturday, Dec 17, 2016, 1PM4PM
  • Where: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street

54. Horse & Carriage Rides in Sidney

  • What: Enjoy a festive horse-drawn carriage tour around Sidney!
  • When: Saturday Dec 17 – Sunday Dec 18, 11AM-3PM
  • Where: Pick up on First Street outside the Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites (across from Fairway Markets).
  • Admission: $30 per carriage, seats six, 20 minute tour. Please call for reservations: 250-883-3651

55. Winter Wonderland in Centennial Square

  • What: New this year – come and get cozy in Centennial Square’s Winter Wonderland. Grab a festive drink in the Centennial Inn or grab a bite to eat from one of Victoria’s delicious food trucks. Live music and lots of holiday cheer for the entire family! Do not forget to take a well-earned rest from all the Christmas shopping on the Ferris Wheel.
  • When: Dec 17, 22, 23 noon-9PM; Dec 18-Dec 21, noon-8PM
  • Where: Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria

56. Christmas Carols and Tea at the Empress

  • What: Enjoy the timeless traditions of Tea at the Empress and live classic Christmas Carols in the elegant surroundings of the Lobby Lounge. Fill your heart with joy and fill your belly with delicate afternoon tea treats and uplifting songs of the season.
  • When: Dec 17&18 and Dec 24&25, 3PM–5PM
  • Where: Lobby Lounge, Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St

 57. Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas

  • What: Step through the doors of the oldest house in British Columbia, still on its original site, and experience what Christmas would have been like in Victoria over 100 years ago. Decorations, music and first-hand accounts will take you back to Christmas past. On opening day, December 17, stories will be told by experienced storytellers by the hearth between 2PM and 3PM.
  • When: Dec 17-31, 2016 (closed Dec 25), 12PM-4PM
  • Where: 638 Elliot St
  • Admission: Included with Royal BC Museum admission or by donation

58. Breakfast with Santa – Metchosin

  • What: Come to the Metchosin Fire Department for a pancake breakfast with Santa – hot coffee/tea, hot chocolate and kids crafts – and don’t forget a picture and visit with the Big Guy himself! If someone you know is unable to get out to visit with Santa – please let the fire fighters know – they can make special arrangement to get Santa to them! “No one goes without a visit from Santa here in Metchosin!”
  • When: Sunday, December 18, 2016, 9AM–1PM
  • Where: Metchosin Fire Hall, 4440 Happy Valley Rd

59. Candy Wonderland

  • What: Rediscover the magic of Christmas with a visit to Candy Wonderland to explore The incredible life-sized gingerbread house and get in the festive spirit by decorating your own gingerbread man!
  • When: Sunday, December 18 – Thursday, December 22, 2PM-6PM
  • Where: Library, Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St
  • Admission: $25 per family of four

60. Christmas Lights Ride

  • What: A perennial family favourite! Join in this easy, 20 km ride to view wonderful holiday light displays in the James Bay area. Free refreshments and door prizes after the ride. Holiday wear and bike decorations encouraged! As this is a night ride, front and rear lights are required. Decorated bikes are highly encouraged!
  • When: Sunday, December 18, 2016, 6PM-9PM
  • Where:  The ride starts and ends at the James Bay New Horizons Centre, 234 Menzies Street.
  • Admission: All GVCC rides are by donation ($5 suggested).

61. Meet Mrs. Claus

  • What: Bring the family to meet Santa Claus’ lovely wife for a special reading of Christmas stories as everybody snuggles up to enjoy milk and cookies while Mrs. Claus tells her tales.
  • When: Saturday, December 24, 6PM, 7PM, 8PM
  • Where: Library, Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St
  • Admission: FREE

Got an event? Add it to our Events Calendar!

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Jitka Zhttp://www.itkasanimages.com
Meeting people from all walks of life and sharing their stories is my passion!

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