As November rolls around, Victoria begins to see its first frosty mornings. Crisp, fresh air greets the lungs as you stroll around town, seeking out the city’s array of twinkling light displays and festive decorations. Window shop along Johnson Street until the smell of java lures you into one of downtown’s quaint coffee shops. Or ring in the holiday season with carols and sweet eats. Ready to get your cozy autumnal trip planning underway? We’ve got 10 things to do in Victoria, BC this November to get you started!
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1. The Butchart Gardens
Experience the magic of The Butchart Gardens! Boasting hues of ambers and gold, the gardens this time of year don’t disappoint as they make their way into the winter season. (Tight on time? Check out our Butchart Gardens Day Trip option).
Round out your day at Butchart with their seasonal spread of Afternoon Tea, presented in The Gardens’ homey Dining Room Restaurant. Nibble on an outstanding array of house-made treats, crafted with care from top quality, locally-sourced ingredients paired with their signature blends of loose-leaf teas. Between the warm, welcoming service and the intimate atmosphere, you’ll walk out feeling like a close personal friend of Jennie Butchart herself.
2. Catch Some Fall Color on the Galloping Goose Trail
Lined with deciduous trees that turn vibrant orange and yellow this time of year, the Galloping Goose Regional Trail is one of the most scenic trails in Victoria come autumn. The 55km/34 mi trail begins just over the Blue Bridge and runs from Victoria to Sooke, allowing travelers to enjoy a range of scenic landscapes as they bike, walk, run or ride on horseback from the city to the country.
3. Nomad Holiday Market – November 10 – 12
A creative’s wonderland home to BC’s finest artists and Makers, browse this year’s Nomad Holiday Market. A space where limitations don’t apply and unique visions come to life, you’re sure to be in awe while equally inspired. Bring home a variety of food, alcohol, fine art, hand-made clothing, and crafts as the perfect stocking stuffers or new addition to your home.
With offerings from craft distilleries and wineries to interactive activities, sip and stroll while you ponder your purchases!
4. Catch a Show – November
If you’re looking for live entertainment this month, you’ll find it in Victoria! Everything from British comedy icon Alan Carr to a screening of Jurassic Park with a live orchestra, to ethereal Canadian singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin have performances scheduled throughout the month. With shows hosted at historic venues such as the Royal Theatre and the McPherson Playhouse, it’s an excellent opportunity to peek inside some of Victoria’s most opulent spaces!
5. Victorian Christmas Craft Fair – November 18-19
Celebrate local artisans at this year’s highly anticipated and beloved Victorian Christmas Craft Fair! Explore handcrafted décor and gifts from over 70 artists and local businesses just in time for the holiday season! Treat yourself to gourmet treats and snag an extra for your furry friend.
6. Get Your Holiday Shopping Underway
Discover Victoria’s growing boutique shopping scene with a stroll around downtown! Cruise along the candy-colored storefronts of Lower Johnson Street to check out stores like Rook & Rose, Good Vibe Space, and Still Life.
Then, hang a right and head up Government Street for some incredible vintage finds at Glam & Fame and handmade clothing inspired by nature at Smoking Lily. With far fewer downtown crowds and an exchange rate in favor of American visitors, this is the perfect shopportunity to start crossing some things off your holiday to-do list!
7. Festival of Trees – November 16 – January 3
True holiday magic isn’t complete without this year’s Victoria Festival of Trees – the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in BC’s capital! Held at the Bay Centre, each tree is unique in its own way–from eccentric to exquisite. Going beyond touching the hearts of those who visit, the event also benefits the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.
8. Victoria Gem Show – November 24 – 26
Discover an exceptional selection from 50 premier gem, mineral, and jewelry vendors from across the country at Western Canada’s biggest gem show. Explore a vast selection of one-of-a-kind gems, exquisite crystals, unique fossils, handcrafted jewelry, opulent beads and metal findings, intricate stone carvings, and tons more!
9. 2022 Gingerbread Showcase – November 25 – January 4
Delicate, frosted creations take the spotlight at this year’s Gingerbread Showcase held at the Hotel Grand pacific. Stroll through the festive lobby and admire the efforts from amateur and professional bakers alike.
Vote for your favorite by donation, with all proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity Victoria. Whatever the confectionary creators come up with, it’s sure to light up your kids’ faces (and yours!) with glee.
10. Magic of Christmas Dinner and Dance – November 25
Ring in the Christmas season with an evening of holiday festivities at The Butchart Gardens’ Magic of Christmas Dinner and Dance! Dine on a tempting buffet from their culinary experts while live music drifts through the air. After dinner, bundle up for a caroler-led stroll through The Gardens and prepare to be dazzled by an exclusive preview of their annual Christmas Lights display. Wrap up the evening at The Blue Poppy Restaurant with a swank spread of desserts and groove to the big band stylings of The Chris Millington Band.
There are two options when brisk fall begins – hibernation or a whole-hearted seasonal embrace. Whether you choose the former and experience the fiery colors this season is known for, or the latter via artisan markets and holiday cheer, there’s a fall activity for everyone in BC’s capital this month!
While you’re out and about, slow down and stop to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Victoria mid-fall: leaves crunching underfoot, local coffee wafting out of your cup and array of glowing lights brightening the evening sky. Pure autumnal goodness!
Featured image courtesy of Destination BC