9 festive holiday events you can't miss in Victoria this December
The holiday season is here, and Victoria is brimming with festive cheer (sans snow).
Whether you’re looking to stroll through twinkling light displays, get spooked by ghostly legends, or immerse yourself in the city’s seasonal charm, there’s something for everyone.
From the enchanting Christmas Magic at The Butchart Gardens to eerie ghost tours that weave through the city’s historic streets, this list of 10 exciting Christmas events offers plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit.
Musical Performances at the Legislative Building
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Get into the holiday spirit with musical performances by local choirs and bands in the stunning Upper Rotunda of the Parliament Buildings. These free performances take place on weekdays from December 2 to December 20, with shows at noon and/or 4 pm. No registration is required, but be sure to arrive early to pass through security. Some of the performances include choirs like St. Joseph’s Intermediate Choir (December 2), Greater Victoria Police Chorus (December 3), and Sing Victoria (December 9), among others.
Where: British Columbia Legislative Assembly, 501 Belleville Street, Victoria
When: Weekdays from December 2 to 20, with performances at noon and/or 4 pm
Bastion Square Holiday Market
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Celebrate the season at the Bastion Square Holiday Market, featuring handcrafted goods from local artisans and makers, live music, and festive vibes. With multiple dates to choose from, it’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts and soak up holiday cheer.
When: Friday, November 29; starts at 11 am
Where: Bastion Square
Tickets: Free
Yuletide Christmas Craft Market
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Head to Bilston Creek Farm for a charming holiday craft market experience. This picturesque setting is perfect for finding festive decorations and handmade gifts from local makers.
When: Friday, November 23 to Sunday, November 24
Where: Bilston Creek Farm — 4185 Metchosin Road, Metchosin
Tickets: $10 for five market visits
Festival of Trees Victoria
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Start the holiday season with this beloved event at The Bay Centre, featuring a sparkling display of trees, each uniquely decorated by local sponsors. Guests can vote for their favourite tree, with all proceeds going to support BC Children’s Hospital.
When: Friday, November 15 to Sunday, January 5
Where: The Bay Centre — 1150 Douglas Street
Tickets: Free; donations encouraged
Christmas Magic at The Butchart Gardens
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Experience the wonder of the holidays with over a million twinkling lights decorating the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. Wander through enchanting displays like the Twelve Days of Christmas and keep an eye out for hidden treasures throughout the gardens. It’s a festive treat that’s well worth the 35-minute drive from downtown Victoria.
Where: 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
When: Daily through the holiday season
Ghosts of Christmas Past Walking Tour
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Get into the holiday spirit with a spooky twist! Join the 60-minute Ghosts of Christmas Past walking tour through Victoria’s historic streets. Hear chilling tales of a Songhees legend, a Christmas Eve murder, and the eerie “White Lady” of Bastion Square, said to first appear at Christmas in 1861.
Where: Starts at Victoria’s Inner Harbour
When: Thursdays to Sundays, December 1 to 31 at 7:30 pm
Tickets: More info here
A Wonderheads Christmas Carol
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One of the most unique theatrical interpretations of the famous Charles Dickens’ story, A Wonderheads Christmas Carol, is bound to put you in the holiday mood.
Where: McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
When: Wednesday, December 18 to Sunday, December 21
Tickets: More info here
Cozy Christmas Food Tour
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Eat your way through the city with seven festive treats including decadent cheese, savoury nuts, chocolates, gingerbread cookies, and hot chocolate, all while exploring iconic sights like the Inner Harbour, Empress Hotel, and Festival of Trees at the Bay Centre.
Where: Departing from Off the Eaten Track — 470 Belleville Street Level 2
When: Thursday to Sunday until December 31, from 11 am to 1 pm and 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Tickets: Prices vary
Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
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Step back in time and immerse yourself in the Victorian-era holiday charm of Craigdarroch Castle this December. Starting December 1, the castle will be decked out in traditional decorations, including vintage toys, wooden blocks, and antique games displayed under the tree in the drawing room.
Where: Craigdarroch Castle — 1050 Joan Crescent
When: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm (closed December 25, 26 and January 1)
Tickets: From $10 to $22.50 online
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments or by email at victoria@dailyhive.com.