An ideal trip for Seattleites and visitors from well beyond, the British Columbia capital offers everything from a world-famous botanical garden to a distinct British vibe, with double-decker buses and elegant venues for afternoon tea. While you really don’t need an excuse to visit, there are many events in Victoria worth planning a trip around in 2026.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting day trip, a weekend, or longer, just getting to Victoria is a fun and scenic adventure aboard our high-speed Victoria Clipper catamaran. And, to make the most of the time you have, we’ve put together this guide with the top events in Victoria worth traveling for in 2026!
Be sure to save the link so that you can refer to it throughout the year. Our team of Pacific Northwest travel experts at FRS Clipper will keep you updated as more details are made available. Information for some events may be released months ahead, but others don’t come out until closer to the date they begin.
Now, if you’re ready for some inspiration, check out the upcoming events in Victoria.
March
Victoria Goddess Run: March 6
Empowering women and girls of all ages, the Victoria Goddess Run invites females to walk, run, or even skip while raising funds for local charities. it includes both 5K and 10K options, benefiting organizations like Victoria Hospice and Victoria Women’s Transition House.
Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony: March 7
A great way to introduce the entire family to the joys of the symphony, New York Times best-selling author Dan Brown will present his children’s book Wild Symphony. Hosted at the University Farquhar Auditorium at UVic, the audience will meet ” a big blue whale and speedy cheetahs, tiny beetles, and graceful swans,” all to the sounds of the orchestra.
Langford Bike Fest: March 13-15
The annual Langford Bikefest features the UCI Canada Cup XCO/XCC mountain bike racing events, drawing some 500 participants and hundreds of spectators. Held in Jordie Lunn Bike Park, the “crown jewel of cycling” on Vancouver Island and a training area for the Canadian National Team, it’s just nine miles from downtown Victoria.
Victoria Royals: Through March
The Royals continue their season in March with the following opponents:
Vancouver Giants: March 13
Everett Silvertips: March 17
Prince George Cougars: March 20 and 21
Pacific Rim Whale Festival (Uculet/Tofino): March 14-21
While it’s a bit of a trek from Victoria, it’s well worth the drive to attend the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Held over a week in Tofino, Ucluelet, and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, it celebrates the return of Pacific Grey Whales to the west coast of Vancouver Island on their northern migration route. Whale watching tours and all sorts of special whale-related activities will be hosted. Plus, there’s a ton of other things to do for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers thorughout this stunning region of the island.
St. Patrick’s Day: March 17
Victoria is a great place to be for celebrating all things Irish too! The annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival takes place on Government Street, typically on the Sunday just before or after St. Patrick’s Day, which is always on March 17. There will be live entertainment, family-friendly games, food vendors, and more, many of which will be very close to the popular Irish Times Pub. That means, after the official festivities, you’ll be steps from the pub for live Irish music and dancing.
Remember, we’ll keep this updated as more details are released, just plan to be in Victoria in mid-March!
April
Children’s Easter Bunny Hunt at The Butchart Gardens: April 3-6
Spring is one of our favorite times to visit The Butchart Gardens, and there’s another reason to bring the whole family! From Good Friday to Easter Monday every year, kids 17 and under can participate in the Children’s Easter Bunny Hunt. They’ll pick up a handout at the Admission Gate to mark the location of 10 hidden ceramic bunnies. Once maps are completed, they’re returned to the Information Centre in exchange for an Easter treat. Each one is also entered into a drawing for an Easter gift basket.
Island Embrace Tango Marathon: April 10-12
Like to tango or want to learn the sultry dance? The Island Embrace Tango Marathon is for you! There will be a special option for new dancers to particpipate while the seasoned will be dancing ’til they drop. It will feature five milongas (with snacks), some non-dancing learning experiences, brunches, and more. Of course, pro photographers will be their to capture all the action too.
Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival: April 17-May 9
The Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival is an annual event that aims to foster a love of the performing arts for all ages and skill levels in music, dance and speech arts. Taking place at venues throughout the area, there are typically over regional 9,000 performers and students, with details for 2026 to be announced.
Saanich Earth Day Festival: April 18
Attending the Saanich Earth Day Festival provides the perfect excuse to bring the family, rent some bikes, and travel the Lochside Trail. The event will be held just off the trail, behind Municipal Hall, offering the chance to get active and celebrate the planet. There will be a food truck and a vendor village where activities will be hosted along with local musicians. Stayed tuned for more details!
Victoria Outdoor Adventure Show: April 24-26
If you’re into all things outdoors, don’t miss the annual Victoria Outdoor Adventure Show. It’s a three-day weekend of all things outdoors, including adventure sports demos, RVs, and all sorts of gear. Think fishing, bikes, camping equipment, boats, roof-top tents, survival gear, and a whole lot more.
TC10K: April 26
Runners and walkers can take part in the 37th annaul “Together, We Soar” TC10K. It’s an early wake-up call, starting at 8 a.m., with running, walking, and family options, including a three-part medal series by local Indigenous artist Jamin Zuroski. Register by January 31, 2026 to take advantage of the discounted early bird fees. Over 10,000 are expected to participate!
May
Esquimalt Buccaneer Days: May 8-10
The annual Buccaneer Days festival is your excuse to dress up like a sailor or a pirate! There’s something for all ages at this event, including free local entertainment, a cornhole tournament, a beer garden for the grown-ups, and the Pirate’s Den Family Zone with crafts, a bouncy castle, and a photo booth. Of course, the kids and the kids at heart will probably want to come for the Midway rides, with thrills for all ages.
Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival: May 9-17
Experience a bit of Scotland in Victoria at the Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival. While the specifics haven’t been released just yet, you can mark the dates on your calendar: May 9-17 in 2026. There will be plenty of tartan throughout along with hundreds of drummers and bagpipers, pipe band and Highland dance competitions, and heavy events like the hammer throw. The whisky school, beer gardens, and food vendors sell traditional Scottish eats are all staples of the festival every year.
Victoria Day Weekend: May 17-19
Victoria Day is celebrated every year on the last Monday before May 25, a Canadian public holiday honoring Queen Victoria’s birthday. There are events throughout the long weekend, May 17-19 in 2026, unofficially marking the start of summer.
The main event is the parade on May 18, now celebrating its 126th year. Free to attend, it’s hosted by Thrifty Foods and has typically featured roughly 150 entries. That includes everything from musical floats, Canadian and American marching bands, cultural entries, clowns, military vehicles, and more.
Swiftsure International Yacht Race: May 22-24
The Swiftsure International Yacht Race starts and ends in Victoria, drawing world-class sailors and thousands of visitors from across British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and beyond. A premier annual yachting event, it’s organized by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. Watching the hundreds of majestic yachts as they sail from Clover Point is a breathtaking sight, but that’s not all it includes. There will be lots of tasty food, music, and fun activities. If you’d like to see the yachts finish their long courses, head to Ogden Point. Others will be finishing at Ship Point in the Inner Harbour.
Oak Bay Half Marathon: May 24
The 20th annual Oak Bay Half-Marathon kicks off the triathlon season on Sunday, May 24 in 2026. Starting from Hamsterly Beach at Windsor Park in the heart of Oak Bay, it will include the half marathon, a 10K, a four-person relay, and a 1K kids run. Multiple charities will be benefit, so you can not only feel good about boosting your health, but also helping out the community. There will be two new charities, Victoria Hospice and and the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island joining CFAX Santas Anonymous as the official charities of choice this year.
And, to help you save, we were able to score a special promo code! Use OAKBAYHALF to get 10% off when registering at www.oakbayhalf.com.
June
Island FanCon: June 5-7
Calling all Comic-Con fans throughout the region from Victoria and Vancouver to Seattle, and beyond. Wear your most creative costume and head to Island FanCon at City Centre Park in Langford. It’s just nine miles west of downtown Victoria and will feature all your favorites, from superheroes and comics to cosplay.
The Village Block Party: June 7
Always a big hit with dog lovers, the Village Block Party not only features live music and adult beverages, but dog races! There will be over 125 local vendors and food trucks along with DJs and live performers. While the artists haven’t been announced yet, keep an eye on this page for updates.
Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival: June 19-21
The Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival takes place at Laketown Ranch in Lake Cowichan, about an hour and 20-minute drive from Victoria. It’s one of the island’s most popular events and the biggest of its kind in B.C. Family-friendly, there will be live bluegrass performances on stage, free workshops, square dancing, food and craft vendors, and camping. Plus, those who attend will be in the heart of the island’s burgeoning wine scene, and just minutes from scenic trails for hiking and cycling.
Victoria Jazz Festival: June 19-28
If jazz is more your style, the dates are set for the Victoria Jazz Festival in 2026. As always, it will feature a diverse mix of music that includes jazz, along with soul, funk, and world tunes. Pink Martini is the headliner, on stage at the Royal Theatre on June 24.
SKA & REGGAE FESTIVAL: June 24
There’s something for ska and reggae enthusiasts too! The 27th annual Ska & Reggae Festival will take place at Ship Point at the Inner Harbour on June 24. As always, it promises an enticing mix of international, national, and hometown talent with diverse programming. In addition to ska and reggae, you can expect hip-hall, global roots, bass, and dancehall. It’s all about anything that makes your “soul groove” and your “feet move.”
July
Summer Entertainment & Night Illuminations at The Butchart Gardens: July and August
Throughout July and August, Wednesday through Sunday evenings in Victoria can include taking in live performances at The Butchart Gardens. Just after dusk, thousands of lights transform The Gardens into a magical wonderland. It’s the perfect setting for a show, held on the Concert Lawn. And, the concerts are even included with your admission to the gardens!
Canada Day: July 1
The biggest event of the year in Victoria is Canada Day. This is a massive, not-to-be-missed celebration that’s focused around the Inner Harbour. There will be family-friendly activities in places like Beacon Hill Park, live performances by local artists throughout downtown and various parks, lots of diverse foods, and markets. The grand finale? The fireworks that are launched over the Inner Harbour around 10:20 p.m.
Gorge Canada Day Picnic: July 1
The Gorge Canada Day Picnic is a great alternative to the happenings right in the city. Taking place along the Gorge Waterway, the stretch between Tillicum Road and Admirals Road will be closed for traffic. That means attendees can safely enjoy the parade, Gorge on Art, street hockey, car show, market, food trucks, activities and inflatables for the little ones, and more.
Victoria X Tri: July 5
For the athletes (and those who like to watch), the Victoria X Tri is a challenging off-road triathlon and duathlon that takes place at picturesque Durrance Lake. An internationally well known area home to the Mt. Work Mountain Bike Park, it’s renowned for its trails and its jaw-dropping views.
Butchart Gardens Summer Fireworks: July 4-September 5
In addition to concert evenings, during the summer The Butchart Gardens puts on a magnificent firework show. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the original displays that are designed and choreographed to music, by Jennie Butchart’s great-grandson, Christopher Ross. And, even better? The show is included with your admission to The Gardens!
Victoria Pride Festival Parade: July 12
On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the Victoria Pride Festival Parade will take place in downtown Victoria, starting at 11 a.m. Afterward, there will be the Festival in the Park, which typically takes place in MacDonald Park, although details are yet to come.
Victoria Half, Olympic & Sprint Triathlon: July 12
This classic West Coast race featuring a half, Olympic, and Sprint Triathalon will be held at Elk Lake. It serves as the 2026 Provincial Long Course Championships and a qualifier for the 2027 ITU World Championships.
The Art Gallery Paint-In: July 18 (tenative)
The largest summer arts festival on Vancouver Island, the Art Gallery Paint-In will return once again to Moss Street in 2026. Presented by the TD Bank Group, you’ll be able to check out works from artists throughout the island. The tenative date is July 18 as it’s typically held on a Saturday mid-month, with last year’s on July 19. Details coming soon!
Symphony in the Summer Festival: Late July through Early August
One of North America’s largest symphonic gatherings, the Victoria Symphony (and a selection of other performers) will play from late July through early August. Venues include everything from the Inner Harbour to Butchart Gardens and Christ Church Cathedral. Specific dates and performers coming soon!
August
Symphony Splash: Early August
Worthy of a separate entry, the Symphony Splash is the conclusion to the Symphony in the Summer Festival. The Victoria Symphony will perform on a floating barge in the Inner Harbour. The grand finale? A fireworks display!
The Wonderment Festival: Early August
The Wonderment Festival offers free performances by day in Victoria’s public parks and ticketed events after dark. It’s often compared to a mix between the Big Chill in the U.K., Germany’s Love Parade, and Burning Man in the U.S. Daytime events are family-friendly, and the kids can even enjoy playgrounds and swimming. Nightime is 19+, and dance-focused. Details, including dates, to be announced, but it’s typically hosted over three days in early August.
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival: August 8
The date for the popular Canada Dry Victoria International Dragon Boat Festival combines set has been set for 2026. Mark your calendar for August 8 and plan to be in the Inner Harbour to watch the colorful dragon boats race from Laurel Point to the Empress. There will be a cultural demonstrations, local artist performances, a light show, live bands, a beer garden, and a food court. This is one you’ll definitely want your camera or smartphone for – one of our favorite shots is the sun going down over the harbor.
Victoria Fringe Festival: August 26-September 6
The Victoria Fringe Festival takes over downtown for a theater extravaganza. In 2026, its 40th anniversary will be celebrated, which means it’s likely to be an extra special event. There are always a variety of talented artists from across the globe, from comedy and dance to magic. Plus, a pop-up Indigenous Artisans Market, craft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available too.
September
Saanich Fair: September 5-7
The annual Saanich Fair is a classic! Less than 13 miles north of downtown Victoria, bring the whole family for this one. There will be horse and dog shows, petting zoos, roller coasters, and all sorts of other entertainment. Plus, you can even pick up fresh produce with regional farmers selling their products that were often harvested that morning.
Rifflandia: September
As we progress further into 2026, you’ll find many festivals and events haven’t announced their dates just yet. But we do know that the Rifflandia festival marks the end of the summer. Celebrate the conclusion of those warmer months with a weekend of music in a variety of genres, held at Matullia Lands at Rock Bay. We’ll update you when the artists are announced, typically in May.
Brewery & the Beast: September
The dates for Brewery & the Beast are yet to come, but you can be sure that it will be an extraordinary gastronomic experience. Over 50 of Victoria and Vancouver Island’s renowned chefs and award-winning restaurants participate. The featured dishes are crafted using responsibly sourced, local ingredients, cooked over live fire. They can be paired with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks while proceeds support culinary scholarships, mental health initiatives, and food security programs.
Terry Fox Run Victoria: September
Keep an eye out on our page for the Terry Fox Run Victoria dates and details. It will be held in September and typically attracts more than 10,000 participants.
October
Victoria Tea Festival: October 3
Victoria Tea Festival in Nootka Court offers the chance to sip teas from across the globe. And, the date for 2026 has already been announced! Be there on October 3 to sample teas sourced from the farms of origin for an authentic “farm-to-cup experience.” It’s also an opportunity to learn more about them from experts, and enjoy delicious food with live music in the backdrop.
Royal Victoria Marathon: October 9-11
Start training now if you haven’t already for the Royal Victoria Marathon. This is a Boston Qualifier, taking place on Sunday, October 11 in 2026. The scenic oceanfront course winds through Victoria and Oak Bay. There will also be a half-marathon, 8K, and 5K run/walk options. A kids’ race typically takes place the day prior to the main event, so likely on October 10.
November – Early January
As the 2026 holidays grow closer, we’ll update all the events, but there are some that you can count on every year. And even a few extra, non-holiday related events.
Greenhouse Tours at The Butchart Gardens: November Weekends
Go behind the scenes at The Butchart Gardens on November weekends. A one-hour tour led by a staff garden will bring you through the greenhouses (there are 26 spanning 2 acres!). You’ll get an introduction to a variety of topics from plant propagation and production to pest management.
Gingerbread Showcase: November-Early January
Habitat Victoria’s Gingerbread Showcase at the Hotel Grand Pacific is a gingerbread house bake-off. Both professionals and home-bakers will create their displays baesd on a theme, vying for top honors. It’s the perfect place to get inspiration for making your own.
Festival of Trees Victoria: Late November-Early January 2027
Held at the Bay Centre, the Festival of Trees provides another source of inspiration – for decorating your tree! Typically there are around 100 featured at this event. Furthermore, you can even vote for your favorite!
December
Butchart Gardens Magic of Christmas: Early December through Early January
One of the best and biggest events for the holidays in Victoria is the Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens. While the colorful blooms are impressive earlier in the year, if you haven’t seen it in December, put it on your bucket list! It’s always a breathtaking vision with hundreds of thousands of dazzling lights. Plus, holiday music and festive treats are all part of the fun. Another big plus, you can even combine your ride on the Victoria Clipper with a tour to The Butchart Gardens! Gotta love that.
Christmas at the Castle (Craigdarroch Castle): Early December through the First Week of January
Lights of Wonder: Throughout December
Lights of Wonder brings dazzling lights and decor, nightly live music, and a Ferris wheel for a view over it all, from downtown’s Centennial Square.
Holiday Teas: Throughout December
The Fairmont Empress and the Pendray typically host special holiday editions of their renowned afternoon tea experiences. Come for the fresh scones and stay for the exquisite desserts and holiday decor!
That’s enough to keep you busy having fun in Victoria all year long! Of course, who really needs an excuse to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful cities?