Happy Thursday, Victoria!
There’s a lot of cool things to do in the city today, including a swanky surf summer Soirée to attend, a popular Toronto-based musician to listen to, international yachts to see, and more.
Without further ado, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria today, Thursday, May 23rd.
The Allan Rayman Show
Don’t miss your chance to see Toronto-based singer/songwriter Allan Rayman in Victoria tonight!
Best known for his three albums, Hotel Allan, Roadhouse 01, and Harry Hard-on, and one EP, Courtney, Allan quickly grew a cult following for his alternative hip hop and R&B style. He has played sold-out headline tours in the United States and Canada and has recently returned from a European tour.
- When: Doors open at 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street
Bee Inspired & Meet Your Local Pollinators
Head down to the Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature for a tantalizing and informative talk about Vancouver Island pollinators.
One out of every three bites of food that we eat is made possible by pollinators like honey bees and visitors can expect an immersive experience at the talk, including demos to see, hear, touch, taste and even smell during the presentation. Tickets are free but limited so make sure to register!
- When: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Where: Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature, 470 Belleville Street
Swiftsure International Yacht Race
The world renowned Swiftsure International Yacht Race begins today!
The event consists of nine races over five courses in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and regularly draws in sailors from across Canada, the US, New Zealand, and more. While the race proper doesn’t begin until Saturday, visitors are welcome to check out the yachts at Victoria’s Inner Harbour starting today.
- When: May 23 – 27
- Where: Victoria Inner Harbour
Surfrider Summer Soirée
It’s officially patio season at Canoe Brewpub!
To kick off the summer, join the brew pub for a ‘Surf Forma; featuring a local art auction, door prizes, live music and Canoe’s new summer menu. Also, if you arrive by a ‘paddlecraft’ (paddleboard, canoe, kayak) staff from Ocean River Sports will provide complimentary ‘boat valet’ and exclusive prizes
- When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Canoe Brewpub, 450 Swift Street
Esquimalt Farmers Market Outdoor Season in Memorial Park
With the weather heating up its time to check out Esquimalt’s huge outdoor Farmer’s Market!
The market helps support local growers and producers who use environmentally sound farming practices and helps build connections within the community. And of course, the food is tasty, local, and fresh!
- When: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Memorial Park, 1230 Esquimalt Road
