A rowdy NYE celebration not your cup of tea for ringing in 2026? How about a more enchanting alternative? While Seattle has an iconic fireworks display, it also draws big crowds. But New Year’s Eve in Victoria, B.C., is all about tranquility and romance.
Say farewell to those massive crowds and hello to Victoria with a scenic ride via the Victoria Clipper!
Perhaps a romantic dinner, live music for dancing, and a midnight champagne toast on NYE. Breakfast in bed in the morning? Check! Adding a wellness-enhancing activity or two can be a great way to kick off 2026. No matter what you have in mind, you’re sure to find something to inspire the perfect New Year’s Eve in Victoria.
New Year’s Eve in the Bengal Lounge at Fairmont Empress
One of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks, the Fairmont Express is renowned for its New Year’s Eve celebrations. This year, the nostalgic and beloved The Bengal will combines the “grandeur of the past and the excitement of the present.” Start with cocktails and hors d’oevres, followed by dishes showcasing the best of PNW cuisine. There will be a full-service bar with holiday drinks for purchase, bringing the chance to mingle while savoring tasty flavors during the final hours of 2025. Capping off with the countdown, after midnight you might continue in your luxurious room.
Of course, spending the night at the Empress not only means you’ll be just steps from your room. In the morning, you’ll be steps from pampering at one of Canada’s best spas! It includes a Finnish-style sauna and a menu of more than 10 different massage options. How’s that for a great start to the New Year?
An Intimate Evening at the Waterfront Inn at Laurel Point
Set right along the waterfront, the Inn at Laurel Point is ideal for those seeking a quieter celebration filled with romance. A platter of tasty bites and some bubbly in a serene atmosphere is the perfect setting for a romantic countdown on December 31. Or, simply start the party here and head out to mingle while welcoming in 2026! Either way, you can look forward to a leisurely morning in an ultra-comfy bed and a breathtaking Inner Harbour view.
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Villa Eyrie
Just 30 minutes from downtown Victoria, Villa Eyrie promises a romantic NYE. This is a getaway with your loved one like no other, nestled among peaceful wilderness. You’ll be able to breathe in the fresh mountain air from one of Canada’s most beautiful resorts, with nearly every room boasting awe-inspiring views. And, for an extra-special celebration, enjoy dinner and dancing at the on-site Alpina Restaurant. Choose from three- or five-course dinners, with items like seared scallops and confit lemon risotto, and skirt steak with black garlic mash.
In the morning, you might head to the Tuscan Spa for a mountainside treatment using local island herbs and organic ingredients. Combined with a 180-degree view, it’s likely to be one of the most unforgettable New Year’s Days you’ve ever had.
Merridale Cider & Distillery
The Farmhouse at Merridale Cider & Distillery offers all sorts of fun for the holidays. And, that includes New Year’s Eve! There will be a special menu and limited-edition cocktail list focused on winter flavors and orchard-inspired creations. It’s perfect for a pre-NYE party to start off the night, but it can also be the main event for those who like to celebrate early.
Slow Flow Yoga & A Kombucha Toast
New Year’s Eve doesn’t always have to involve alcohol. Last year’s NYE yoga event was a big hit for celebrating in a way that enhances well-being. And, lucky for us, Caleigh Hunter with One Yoga Victoria will be hosting once again in 2025. The class runs from 10:30 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. and will be guided as slow flow, followed by breath work, and meditation. You’ll get to toast to the New Year with a glass of Kombucha and even take home a crystal used during practice.
New Year’s at the Courtney Room
Winner of Restaurant of the Year at the 2024 YAM Magazine Best Restaurant Awards, The Courtney Room is ideal for a foodie’s New Year’s Eve. You can expect a relaxed evening of fine dining for ringing in 2026 in style. The thoughtfully curated menu will be focused on locally sourced ingredients. Think everything from fresh, sustainable seafood to in-house dry aged natural beef complemented by local produce.
NYE Wonderland in Centennial Square
Throughout the holidays, downtown Centennial Square will be transformed into a wonderland with themed light exhibits, interactive light tunnels, a a hug 40-foot tree, and live entertainment. Not only can you celebrate NYE under the dazzling lights, but there will be an outstanding line-up of performers. Starting at 5 p.m. and running through midnight, you can catch the following:
- The West Coast Soul Collective
- Encore
- Tri-Funkta
- Josh Warren’s Groove Circus
- Myc Sharrat & The Alibis
- Malnacidos Collective
- Carmine
New Year’s Eve at the Fathom, Hotel Grand Pacific
Located at the Hotel Grand Pacific, the Fathom will offer fine dining from specialty menus with three- and five-course options. Welcome bubbly is included and, for the ultimate soundtrack to your celebration, live music from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. featuring the John Lee Trio.
WinterLURE Exclusive Patio Dining Domes
The WinterLURE tables at LURE restaurant can make for an especially memorable NYE dinner. While they’re available from November through March, a celebratory three-course dinner will be served for welcoming 2026. Dining on the waterfront patio in an exclusive wonderland-inspired dome not only means savoring delicious eats, but taking in a stunning view of the Inner Harbour.
An Irish New Year’s Eve
If you like all things Irish, head to the Irish Times Pub for your New Year’s celebration. You can even ring in the New Year twice here with an Irish countdown at 4 p.m. and the local countdown at midnight. It’s also a great alternative for those looking for an earlier night out! Either way, there will be plenty of Guinness, confetti cannons, and live music.