Plan Your Summer in Victoria
Victoria, BC, is a vibrant city that comes alive in the summer with a myriad of events and activities. From music festivals and outdoor concerts to art exhibitions and the latest culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a long time resident or a prospective homebuyer exploring the city, here’s a guide to a few summer events, festivals, activities and the hottest new restaurants in Victoria.
Art & Culture
1. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria Explore contemporary and historical art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Their summer exhibitions often feature local artists, providing a platform for emerging talents. The gallery’s serene gardens are also worth a visit, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
2. Moss Street Paint-In Join the community at the Moss Street Paint-In, where over 150 artists line the streets, showcasing their work and demonstrating their craft. This free, family-friendly event is perfect for art enthusiasts and those looking to support local creators.
3. Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival This is a must for theater lovers. This festival brings independent theater companies from around the world to perform in various venues across the city. With a diverse range of performances, from drama to comedy, there’s something to captivate every audience.
4. Victoria Event Centre For art enthusiasts, the Victoria Event Centre will host the grand finale of the live Art Battle competition, showcasing local talent in a dynamic and engaging format.
5. Pride Exhibit 2024 - The Sidney Museum will have a Pride exhibit titled, Reading Between the Lines for Local Queer History on display until the end of June! Transgender Archives at the University of Victoria. It will be on display throughout June and will then become a part of the permanent upstairs gallery.
SPORTS
W’Hoop It Up - Canada vs. Portugal Basketball fans can look forward to the pre-Olympic exhibition game between Canada and Portugal on June 26th at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. This event is part of Team Canada's training camp and offers a great opportunity to see
BC Lions Touchdown Pacific -The BC Lions will host the Ottawa REDBLACKS in the first-ever Touchdown Pacific game, bringing Canadian football excitement to Victoria. Held at the Royal Athletic Park on August 31st.
Musical Extravaganzas
1. Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival Kick off your summer with the beats of the Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival. This event features an impressive lineup of international and local artists, bringing the best of ska, reggae, and world music to the city. Held at Ship Point in the Inner Harbour from June 19th-23rd, the festival offers an unforgettable waterfront experience.
2. Symphony Splash Experience classical music like never before at the annual Symphony Splash. The Victoria Symphony performs on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour on August 4th from 1:00-10:00pm, drawing thousands of spectators. Bring a picnic, relax on the lawn, and enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of live orchestral music as the sun sets. The concert starts at 7:30pm.
3. Rifflandia Festival This multi-day music festival showcases a diverse range of genres, including indie rock, hip-hop, and elec
tronic music. Rifflandia takes place in various venues across the city, culminating in a massive outdoor party at Royal Athletic Park. It's a fantastic way to discover new music and dance the night away.
4. JazzFest The TD Victoria International Jazzfest is a 10 day music festival featuring the jazz, blues and world music. Held at various venues from June 21st-30th.
CONCERTS
John Fogerty - The Celebration Tour Rock legend John Fogerty will be performing at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on August 23rd. Known for his iconic songs from Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty's show promises a night of unforgettable music with hits like "Proud Mary" and "Fortunate Son"​
Flo Rida- Hip-hop star Flo Rida will bring his high-energy performance to Victoria on September 4th. This is a must-see for fans of vibrant and engaging live shows​ (Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre)​.
COMEDY
Russell Peters - Renowned comedian Russell Peters will be performing at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on October 30th. Known for his hilarious takes on race and culture, Peters is sure to deliver a night full of laughs.
Jim Jefferies & Jimmy Carr - Two comedy heavyweights, Jim Jefferies and Jimmy Carr, will join forces for the "Charm Offensive" tour, stopping in Victoria on October 26th. Their sharp wit and humor promise a memorable evening​​.
Culinary Hotspots
1. Il Terrazzo For a romantic dining experience, Il Terrazzo offers Italian cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. Their wood-fired pizzas and extensive wine list make it a local favorite.
2. Little Jumbo This stylish cocktail bar and restaurant is perfect for a night out. Little Jumbo’s innovative cocktails and seasonal menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients, provide a delightful culinary adventure.
3. Wind Cries Mary One of the newest additions to Victoria’s dining scene, Wind Cries Mary offers a farm-to-table experience with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Their creative dishes and chic ambiance have quickly made it a popular spot among foodies.
4. Marilena Cafe and Raw Bar Another exciting newcomer to Victoria's restaurant scene. Offering a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that emphasizes fresh, raw and beautifully prepared seafood, Marilena is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality, innovative cuisine in an elegant setting.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
1. Kayaking and Paddleboarding Victoria's stunning coastline is perfect for water activities. Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard and explore th
e scenic waterways around the inner Harbour and Gorge waterway. Keep an eye out for seals and other marine life.
2. Hiking and Biking Take advantage of Victoria’s extensive trail network. The Galloping Goose Trail is ideal for both hiking and biking, offering picturesque views of forests, farmlands, and waterfronts. For a more challenging hike, head to Mount Douglas Park for panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands.
3. Beacon Hill Park Spend a leisurely day at Beacon Hill Park, a lush urban oasis featuring gardens, ponds, and playgrounds. Don’t miss the petting zoo and the iconic totem pole, the world’s tallest free-standing totem.
Other Things To Do
Mile 0 Located Located next to Beacon Hill Park is the spot that marks Mile 0 of the Trans-Canada Highway that runs 8,000km across Canada.
Chinatown Visit a part of history in Canada's oldest Chinatown district. Discover a maze of courtyards, Fan Tan Alley and unique eateries.
Castles Take a tour through Craigdarroch or Hatley Castle where you will immediately feel transported to a bygone era. Full of rich Victorian furnishings, vintage photos and lavish interiors.
Government House Visit the official residence of the Lieutenant Govenor of British Columbia. Wander through the 36 acres of gardens and have a snack at the tea house.
Butterfly Gardens & Insectarium Here you'll find thousands of butterflies as well as lush gardens full of plants, frogs, fish, reptiles and birds.
Markets There are plenty of markets in and around Victoria to choose from including the Public Market at the Hudson, Bastion Square Market, Moss St
reet Market, Metchosin Market and Sidney Street Market.
Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse At the edge of Esquimalt Lagoon you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views.
Minature World The greatest little show on earth! Perfect for the young at heart, this quirky museum makes childhood fantasies come to life
In Conclusion:
Victoria, BC, is a city that thrives in the summer, offering a rich tapestry of events and activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the local music scene, exploring the arts, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in the latest culinary trends, Victoria promises an unforgettable summer. As the city continues to grow and evolve, its vibrant community and diverse cultural offerings make it an ideal place to call home. So, grab your calendar, mark down these events and get ready to experience the best of Victoria this summer!
Of course we can't provide ALL of the activities and things to do this summer in Victoria, but this list provided promises to be lively and full of opportunities for fun. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to check out these events and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer.
Posted by Stephen Foster on
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