The weekend has arrived and somehow we’ve already reached the midway mark of June!
And don’t forget, this Sunday, it’s time to celebrate dad.
Although we appreciate our dads all year round, this weekend we focus especially on him and take time to thank him for all he does for us.
Without further ado, here are 12 events in and around Victoria this Father’s Day weekend:
FernFest 2023
This year will mark FernFest’s 26th year running!
For two days Fernwood is transformed into a groovy, energetic, family friendly extravaganza and it’s free to attend.
Check out the lineup of music, the different vendors, food trucks, and other tidbits of entertainment they have ready for you!
- Where: Fernwood Square, Gladstone Avenue and Fernwood Road
- When: Kicked off on Friday, June 16th at 5 p.m. and goes until Saturday, June 17th at 10 p.m.
Brewhaw BBQ at Vancouver Island Brewing
After last year’s huge success, the Brewhaw BBQ is back and ready for you!
Tofino’s infamous Lil Ronnies will be bringing their finger-licking BBQ straight to the party and the lineup of bands will keep you bopping for both Friday and Saturday.
Tickets are $40 for a day pass and it will include a free drink — what are you waiting for?
- Where: 2330 Government Street
- When: Kicked off on Friday, June 16th and goes until 11 p.m., Saturday, June 17th
Local Folk Fair Summer Market
Hosted by Junction Orchard & Cidery, this pop-up market will feature all sorts of goodies.
This is a family friendly event and will feature live music, local artisan vendors, games, and — of course — Junction cider!
- Where: 273 Prospect Lake Road
- When: Sunday, June 18th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dads get into Malahat Skywalk Free for Father’s Day
What better way to show your dad some appreciation than with a day of adventure. The best part is, all dads get in to the Malahat Skywalk for free all weekend long! Spend some quality time with your dad while soaking in the views from the Spiral Tower and enjoying a tasty treat from our local retro food carts at the Tower Plaza.
Note: Free adult ticket with the purchase of any other ticket. Please note this is a window only offer. Free tickets cannot be purchased in advance.
- Where: Trans Canada Highway near the Malahat, 901 Trans-Canada Hwy
- When: Friday, June 16th to Sunday, June 18th (dads get in free)
Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival
British Columbia’s largest bluegrass festival happens right here on the island!
If you’re up for a bit of a daytrip, drive up to Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park for a fantastic lineup of foot-tapping, old-time folk and bluegrass music.
Tickets are available here — prices will vary depending on the pass you’re after!
- Where: 8811 Youbou Road #648, Lake Cowichan
- When: Kicked off on Friday, June 15th and runs until Sunday, June 18th (show times vary)
BC’s Family Fishing Weekend
Fish for free without a license over Father’s Day weekend!
This incredible three-day event kicked off on Friday, June 16th and runs until Sunday, June 18th. It’s a great chance to gather with family and friends!
Whether you’re trying fishing for the first time or are a long-time lover of the sport, this is the perfect opportunity to partake!
All over the province, cities and towns are throwing their own events to celebrate. Click here for information on Victoria’s family fishing event occurring on Saturday, June 17th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Victoria Fish & Game Protective Association campground!
- Where: The whole province of BC!
- When: Friday, June 16th to Sunday, June 18th
Father’s Day Walk/Run
This year marks the 20th Father’s Day walk/run for prostate cancer.
Show your support and participate in this community event! There will be a goodie bag giveaway for the first 200 walkers and a complimentary pancake breakfast hosted by the Central Saanich Lions!
It’s $40 to register!
- Where: Vancouver Island Technology Park, 4464 Markham St #2201
- When: Sunday, June 18th at 10 a.m.
Father’s Day Brunch at CRAFT
Treat your dad to a Father’s Day brunch at CFAFT Beer Market — buffet style!
If you’re curious about the mouth-watering menu, that can be viewed here.
Book a table in advance to ensure you get a spot.
- Where: 450 Swift Street
- When: Sunday, June 18th at 10 a.m.
Father’s Day Summer Fair
Heritage Acres is hosting a summer fair in honour of all the awesome dads out there!
Bring the whole family and giddy up for the incredible agricultural displays and entertainment like steam engine rides, tour-ready log houses, and tractor tours.
It’s only $12 to get in for adults and kids under 12 get in for free!
- Where: 7321 Lochside Drive
- When: Saturday, June 17th at 9 a.m. to Sunday, June 18th at 3:30 p.m.
Father’s Day HarbourCats
Is your dad a big baseball fan?
Why not take him to a game at the Wilson’s Group Stadium at Royal Athletic Park to celebrate all that he’s done for you!
This Sunday the Victoria HarbourCats are playing against the Yakima Valley Pippins and tickets are available for purchase here.
- Where: 1014 Caledonia Avenue
- When:
- Saturday, July 17th at 6:35 p.m.
- Sunday, June 18th at 1:05 p.m.
Family Sunday at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria for an extra special Family Sunday event for Father’s Day!
This Sunday will feature hands-on photography activities, hosted by Victoria-based photographer Tristan Shouldice.
It’s your chance to get up close and personal with the exhibition, The Street!
- Where: 1040 Moss Street
- When: Sunday, June 18th from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Father’s Day Brewery Tour
Head over to Small Gods Brewing with your dad, grandpa, or father figure for an up-close and personal look at what they do!
Jonny & Chris will be giving tours in groups of up to 12 every hour on the hour. 12PM – 5PM
Tickets are free but make sure you reserve a spot so they know you’re coming!
- Where: 9835 Third Street
- When: Sunday, June 18th from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Pacific FC vs York United FC
On Sunday, treat dad to a soccer game at Starlight Stadium to cheer on Greater Victoria’s men’s soccer team as they take on York United FC!
- Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Parkway
- When: Sunday, June 18th at 4 p.m.
