The holiday season transforms Victoria into a festive wonderland, and Inn at Laurel Point is your perfect base to explore the city’s holiday magic. From dazzling lights to local maker markets, here’s your guide to the best festive activities in Victoria this year.
One highlight of the season is the Festival of Trees at The Bay Centre. This beloved tradition turns the shopping centre into a glittering forest of uniquely decorated Christmas trees, all supporting the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. This year we designed a tree too – does it have your vote? It’s the perfect place to soak in some holiday cheer while supporting a great cause.
From light displays to heartwarming traditions, Victoria’s holiday activities are sure to create lasting memories for all ages. See below for a complete list of events to help you plan your magical visit!
Free Holiday Photos
Capture the best memories of the season with a complimentary holiday photo. Join our friends from Four Frames in centre court for a seated photo in a signature holiday setting.
The Bay Centre
November 15 – December 14 (Saturdays & Sundays)
Learn more here
Festival of Trees
See the Bay Center transformed into a lush forest of hand-decorated trees. Share in the spirit by voting for your favourite tree, with all proceeds supporting the most urgent health care needs of kids in BC and BC Children’s Hospital.
The Bay Centre
November 15 to January 5
Learn more here
Christmas at the Manor
Experience the enchanting fusion of holiday cheer and ghostly thrills as you putt your way through twinkling lights, festive decorations and ghostly surprises!
November 17 – January 4
See more here
43rd Peninsula Co-op Santa Lights Parade
Food and cash donations will be accepted for the Mustard Seed Street Church and Food Bank. Plus Santa and Mrs. Claus will be taking pictures by donation following the parade at Centennial Square!
November 29, 5:30pm
Find more info here
Chek Christmas Drive Thru
Support local families in need at the CHEK Drive-Thru. This cherished tradition emphasizes the spirit of giving and collective impact in addressing community challenges. Celebrate the season and help spread holiday cheer!
December 5th, 5pm – 7pm
Learn more here
Lights of Wonder
Downtown Victoria is transforming the square into a holiday wonderland. This outdoor event features themed light exhibits, interactive light tunnels, and a 40-foot festive tree – plus free admission!
November 29 – December 31
See more here
GVHA’s Harbour Holiday Light Up
Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays at GVHA’s Harbour Holiday Light Up! This year will also include local artisans, vendors, food trucks, and more.
Inner Harbour
December 4th, 5pm – 8pm
Read more here
The Dickens Fair
Celebrating its 43rd year, the Dickens Fair is one of Victoria’s oldest and best-loved Holiday craft fairs. Curated Vancouver Island artisans offer a great variety of handmade and homemade products at affordable prices.
December 6, 10am – 4pm
Find more info here
Merry Witches Yule Market
Don’t miss the witchiest holiday market of the season. With 30+ vendors, free admission and swag bags for the first 30 guests!
December 13, 10am – 4pm
See more here
The Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens
Christmas is a cheerful time of year at The Gardens. Experience the Magic of Christmas! Bundle up and take a winter stroll. A time must be booked in advance during the holiday season.
Butchart Gardens
December 1st to January 6th
Find more information here
Or book our Festive Lights Package, stay with us and get admission, a cookie & cocoa at the gardens!
“Out of Hand” Modern Market
Shop a gorgeous array of goods made by hand by over 100 incredible makers, designers, and artisans from BC. Shop for the holidays or for yourself!
November 27 – 30
Learn more here
The Gingerbread Showcase
Stop by this local holiday treasure to view the fantastic 100% edible creations made by volunteer bakers and don’t forget to donate to vote for your favourite. The theme for this years Gingerbread Showcase is Homes for All!
Hotel Grand Pacific
November 21 – January 4
See more here
Ghosts of Christmas Past Walking Tour
During December the Ghostly Walks team will present “Ghosts of Christmas Past,” a spooky route that highlights some of the best seasonal ghost stories in their repertoire. Stories include: the haunted chocolate shop, a Christmas Eve assassination, the “Lady in White” who first appeared at Christmas 1861, a haunted Christmas book, and many others.
December 1 – 31
Book tickets in advance online
Carriage Tours
Watch the streets come to life and sparkle with festivities as you travel around Victoria by horse and carriage.
Celebrate Christmas at Merridale
Experience the holiday magic at Merridale Cidery & Distillery with a visit to Santa’s workshop, complete with festive displays and a fun scavenger hunt. Enjoy seasonal treats and create special memories with the whole family.
The 27th Annual IEOA Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive
Witness the countless trucks wrapped in their holiday best and contribute to a great cause.
December 6, 5pm – 8pm
Stay tuned for more details
Nerdy Days of Christmas
Nerdy Days of Christmas is a quaint and nerdy craft fair in Market Square. Beautiful makers and artists all with a nerdy flair! Entry is by donation and all proceeds will go to Victoria Hospitals Foundation.
December 6 & 7
Sleigh Boat Ride with Victoria Harbour Ferry
Set sail with Victoria Harbour Ferry’s holiday tours and see the city’s festive lights from the water. Enjoy cozy boat rides, complete with holiday cheer and stunning views of the seasonal displays.
December 6, 7, 11 – 21
See more here
Christmas Shows at the Royal Theatre
Take in a show! Whether it’s the Nutcracker, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, Christmas Pops with Denzal Sinclaire & Dee Daniels or A Holly Jolly Christmas – there’s a show for everyone.
Stay Festive at Inn at Laurel Point
Make the most of the holiday season with our Celebrate the Holidays Package,
featuring waterfront accommodation, festive treats, and more.
Book your stay today to experience the warmth of the season at Inn at Laurel Point.
Happy holidays from all of us at Inn at Laurel Point! 🎄