Christmas Events in Victoria 2024
Posted by Niels Madsen on
Victoria is a magical and beautiful place to spend the holidays, with plenty of lights and events throughout the city. Here are just some of the events taking place for Christmas, from performances to photos with Santa to markets! And don't forget to check out local coffee shops and restaurants as well for their Christmas specials.
Winter Spirits Artisan Market
Where: Oak Bay Beach Hotel
When: December 6, 13, and 20, 11:00am - 7:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.oakbaybeachhotel.com/event/winter-spirits-artisan-market-2
Hosted by Tulipe Noire Clothing, with sponsorship by the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, the market will showcase a curated selection of artisanal treasures, offering hotel guests and visitors a unique opportunity to discover and shop local. A variety of handcrafted goods, including Cowichan Sweaters, luxury clothing, local art and sculptures, skin care, jewelry, books, bath and body products, will all be available to purchase onsite.
Bastion Square Holiday Market
Where: Bastion Square
When: December 6-8, 13-15,19-24
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.facebook.com/bastionsquaremarket
Market will be outdoors and INDOORS (18 Bastion Square)! Each day will feature hand crafted goods from Local Artisans & Makers, Live Music as well as Resellers on Sundays!
Dickens Fair
Where: James Bay Community Centre
When: December 7, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More jamesbaymarket.com/dickens-fair
Celebrating its 43rd year, this is one of Victoria’s oldest and best-loved Winter Craft Fairs. Our carefully curated Vancouver Island and Gulf Island artisans offer an amazing variety of affordable handmade and homemade products. With over 60 vendors there will be something for everyone!
Holiday Market
Where: Hillside Mall
When: December 7, 8, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More hillsidecentre.com/holiday-market
Our local vendors will be scattered throughout the mall, adding to the magical holiday atmosphere that Hillside is known for. With many exciting activations throughout the mall, it’s more than just a market—it’s a full festive experience! Bring the family and enjoy all that Hillside has to offer this holiday season.
Sidney Sparkles Holiday Parade
Where: Downtown Sidney
When: December 8, 5:00-6:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.exploresidney.ca/event/sidney-sparkles-holiday-parade
Join Peninsula Celebrations Society for the Sidney Sparkles Holiday Parade along Beacon Avenue in Downtown Sidney!
Festive Brass Merry Mischief
Where: Mary Winspear Centre
When: December 13
Cost: $46
Website: Learn More www.marywinspear.ca/event/festive-brass-merry-mischief
Festive Brass are back at with their unique take on Christmas – a fun, stocking full programme of traditional carols and holiday favourites. A stellar brass quintet joined by an all-star rhythm ensemble will delight, with musical selections like a soulful “Silent Night”, “O Christmas Tree Samba” and, of course, Festive Brass’ infamously twisted “Rudolph Dances”. The incredible Cowichan Vocal Collective from Duncan and the choir students from Claremont, Parkland, and Stelly’s Secondary join us to sing some beautiful arrangements and join in on the fun! Brilliantly bold, jazzy, and sometimes downright quirky arrangements coupled with humorous repartee and plenty of personality will have audiences feeling warm, nostalgic, and fully festive!
One Man Christmas Carol
Where: Royal BC Museum - Old Town
When: December 13, 14, 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Cost: $20
Website: Learn More www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/visit/events/calendar/event/one-man-christmas-carol
The Man Who Adapted Christmas: Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol receives one man treatment courtesy of Charles Ross. It’s Ebenezer Scrooge’s story of reclamation—the tale that launched a thousand spin-offs—irreverently adapted and presented in Old Town. Starring the One Star Wars Trilogy/One Man Pride and Prejudice, Charles Ross. Directed by mime master, Trent Arterberry. Both artists have delighted audiences worldwide and they are equally delighted to premiere this adaptation for you this holiday season.
Very Merry Makers Market
Where: Metchosin Arts & Cultural Centre
When: December 14,15, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More metchosinartcentre.ca/events/makers-market
Enjoy this family friendly community event with over 70 Vendors, hot drinks & food, a puppy visit from the Victoria Humane Society, door prizes and perhaps a visit from the big guy himself! This event is organized by MACCA volunteers with all donations going directly back to supporting arts & culture in our community.
Coastal Bead Collective and Friends Indigenous Holiday Market
Where: 1240 Gladstone Avenue
When: December 14, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More allevents.in/victoria/coastal-bead-collective-and-friends-indigenous-holiday-market/200027485825004
Join us for a late afternoon/ evening with around 20 Indigenous artists from various territories across Turtle Island! We're so humbled to be able to arrange such an event to uplift Indigenous artists and bring community together. We ask that those that attend bring a small contribution if you can for the local food banks within Lekwungen territory. Times are tough and we want to be able to ensure to contribute a little bit back to our community in any way we can. Gilakas'la, Huy ch q'u Siem, Klecko, kʷukʷstéyp, Thank you!
Jolly Jingle Story Mingle
Where: Esquimalt Rec Centre
When: December 14, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.esquimalt.ca/community-events/events-listing/calendar/jolly-jingle-story-mingle-0
Throw on your PJs, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy a story time! Families can stop by after their swim to relax and enjoy some holiday merriment! Or just come for the stories and singing!
46th Annual Victoria Tuba Christmas
Where: Market Square
When: December 14, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Cost: Donations
Website: Learn More finearts.uvic.ca/music/calendar/events/46th-annual-victoria-tuba-christmas
Tuba Christmas returns to Market Square in downtown Victoria for one of Victoria’s most beloved holiday traditions! The annual gathering brings together more than 100 tuba and euphonium players from across the region to play your favourite holiday carols. Donations will be accepted for the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, a charity that assists the people most in need in the Greater Victoria community.
Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas
Where: Helmcken House
When: December 14, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/visit/events/calendar/event/helmcken-house-old-fashioned-christmas
Step through the doors of the oldest house in British Columbia still on its original site and experience what Christmas was like in Victoria more than 100 years ago. Decorations, music and first-hand accounts will take you back to Christmas past.
A Christmas Carol
Where: Craigdarroch Castle
When: Various
Cost: $35.34
Website: Learn More www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-christmas-carol-tickets-1077672179499
Charles Dickens himself toured Europe and North America delivering staged readings of his famed tale, A Christmas Carol, and now actor Jason Stevens channels the Dickensian spirit within the historic walls of Craigdarroch Castle and brings the world of Victorian England to life with his perennially sold-out performances.
Messiah from Scratch!
Where: Christ Church Cathedral
When: December 14, 2:00pm – 5:00pm
Cost: $27.96
Website: Learn More www.eventbrite.ca/e/messiah-from-scratch-tickets-1080981347309
Now’s your chance to lift your voice in song, as we present the ever-popular “Messiah from Scratch!” Come join a team of some of Victoria’s best singers and instrumentalists and add your voice to the stirring choruses of Handel’s iconic masterpiece – this year featuring the full heft of the Victoria Symphony. No experience necessary. “Messiah from Scratch!” distills Handel’s joyful masterpiece to its Christmas essentials for maximum fun: Angels, shepherds abiding in their fields, exalted valleys, a Saviour born and, of course... a Hallelujah Chorus. Proceeds to support the cathedral music program.
Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas Concert
Where: Royal Theatre
When: December 18, 19, 7:30pm
Cost: Starting at $24.50
Website: Learn More vcm.bc.ca/event/daniel-lapps-home-for-christmas-concert-12-18-2024
Bringing the magic to the stage once again, Daniel Lapp leads the very talented young fiddlers of the BC Fiddle Orchestra, the lively Folkestra!, and the uplifting voices of the Joy of Life Choir. All accompanied by the renowned Shiny H’ornaments, Swing’n Shepherds, and the Strings of Lights house band.
Christmas Pops with the Victoria Symphony
Where: Mary Winspear Centre
When: December 17, - 7:30pm
Cost: $58
Website: Learn More www.marywinspear.ca/event/christmas-pops-victoria-symphony
Maestro Giuseppe Pietraroia and your Victoria Symphony are coming to Sidney with music for The Most Wonderful Time of the Year! From holiday classics to spirited renditions of favourite carols, join your Victoria Symphony for a festive celebration This Christmas. Vocal soloist Diane Pancel.
A Wonderheads Christmas Carol
Where: McPherson Playhouse
When: December 18, 21, 7:30pm
Cost: Starting at $40.00
Website: Learn More www.rmts.bc.ca/production-detail-pages/2024-mcpherson-playhouse/a-wonderheads-christmas-carol
A feast for the eyes, ears, and heart, with a generous kick to the funny bone; this astonishing production showcases larger than life characters, glowing ghosts, and 10-foot-tall puppets – to name just a few of the treats in store for audiences as they are whisked away with Ebenezer Scrooge on his seminal Christmas Eve adventure. Prepare to laugh, cry, and be utterly enchanted this holiday season!
Winter Wonderland Family Carnival
Where: Panorama Recreation Centre
When: December 21, 11:00am – 3:00pm
Cost:
Website: Learn More www.exploresidney.ca/event/winter-wonderland-family-carnival-at-panorama-recreation-centre
Join us on the ice for some holiday fun for the whole family! Enjoy hot chocolate, kids games, painting on the ice, and a special visit from Santa in this beautiful winter wonderland. Please note: Skate aids upon request.
Home Alone in Concert
Where: Royal Theatre
When: December 21, 22, 7:00pm
Cost: Starting at $29.00
Website: Learn More victoriasymphony.ca/concerts/home-alone-in-concert
A true holiday favourite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Victoria Symphony. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is holiday fun for the entire family!
A Child’s Christmas in Wales
Where: St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
When: December 24, 2:30pm
Cost: $38.61
Website: Learn More www.eventbrite.ca/e/vox-humana-chamber-choir-presents-a-childs-christmas-in-wales-tickets-1061664961479
A warm and nostalgic Vox Humana Christmas tradition: join us for the reading of Dylan Thomas’s famous story, interlaced with both familiar, traditional carols and a few newer Christmas choral works typical of Vox’s unique repertoire, expressive of the joy and the mystery of the season. Melville Jones will return to narrate this beloved tale.
Lights of Wonder
Where: Centennial Square
When: November 30 to December 31
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More downtownvictoria.ca/lights-of-wonder
Downtown Victoria is transforming Centennial Square into a holiday wonderland. This outdoor event features themed light exhibits, four interactive light tunnels, and a 40-foot festive tree. With free admission and for all ages, Lights of Wonder offers live entertainment, warm nibbles, and magical light displays.
Celebrate the Season
Where: Parliament Buildings
When: Various
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.leg.bc.ca/visit/programs-and-events/special-programs
Join us for musical performances by local community choirs and bands in the Parliament Buildings each December. Concerts are free and are held in the Upper Rotunda (second floor). Plan to arrive around 10 minutes early to allow for time to pass through security screening.
Experience the Magic at Merridale
Where: Merridale Cidery & Distillery
When: Various
Cost: Various
Website: Learn More merridale.ca/christmas
This holiday season, Merridale will transform into a winter wonderland, decked out with twinkling lights and pints of good cheer. You’re warmly invited to join us for one of our upcoming events with the ones you love most. There’s a little something for everyone so mark your calendars and don’t miss out on our most festive events of the year!
Jingle All the Way!
Where: Corner of Belleville and Menzies Streets
When: Various
Cost: From $150 per carriage
Website: Learn More www.tallyhotours.com/seasonal-tours/#christmas
Wrap yourself in a warm blanket and relax to the melodic sound of sleigh bells and the soft footfalls of your horse, while we take you back in time through the quaint residential streets of James Bay. With your favorite holiday music playing in the background, we encourage you to warm up your vocal cords and delight residents with your amazing caroling skills!
Habitat Victoria’s Gingerbread Showcase
Where: Hotel Grand Pacific
When: November 22 to January 5
Cost: Free (donations accepted)
Website: Learn More www.habitatvictoria.com/gingerbread
An iconic Victoria holiday tradition, Habitat Victoria’s Gingerbread Showcase, presented by Peninsula Co-op and hosted at the Hotel Grand Pacific is back for its 16th year! This is Habitat Victoria’s premier annual fundraising event, contributing to helping local families get a hand-up into affordable homeownership. The theme for 2024’s Gingerbread Showcase is Through a Child’s Eyes. Professional and home bakers alike spend hundreds of hours interpreting the Showcase theme each year. In dozens of creative ways and with edible materials of all kinds.
Christmas Tree Village 2024
Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre
When: December 3 to January 3
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.esquimalt.ca/ChristmasTreeVillage
Experience the magic of the holidays at our ninth annual Christmas Tree Village. Join us as we transform the Recreation Centre Atrium and Archie Browning Sports Centre into a holiday wonderland, teeming with twinkling lights and delightful decorations.
Sleigh Boat Ride
Where: Empress dock
When: December 13 to December 22, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm
Cost: Adult $33.60, Child (3 to 18) $16.80
Website: Learn More victoriaharbourferry.com/tours-services/holiday
Join us for a one-of-a-kind “Sleigh Boat Ride”. Your adventure will start at the Empress dock. From here you will take a ride over to Fisherman’s Wharf where you will disembark the ferry at Puerto Vallarta Amigos for hot chocolate & churros! You will then board your return ferry back to the Empress Dock while holiday music plays on your journey.
Ghostly Walks - Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour
Where: Visitor Information Centre
When: Various
Cost: Adults: $22, Child (6 to 11) $12
Website: Learn More discoverthepast.com/ghostly-walks
During December the Ghostly Walks team will present “Ghosts of Christmas Past,” a spooky route through Old Town 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.
Holiday Magic
Where: Malahat Skywalk
When: 23 November to January 1
Cost: Admission ($38 Adults, Children 6-17 $24)
Website: Learn More malahatskywalk.com/connect/events/holiday-magic
'Tis the season of Holiday Magic! Enjoy a cozy beverage, warm fire, shopping from local makers and cameo visits from Santa on weekends! Discover local treasures, meet Vancouver Island’s finest makers, and sip on mini hot chocolate as you explore handcrafted gifts and tasty treats. Wrap up your SkyWalk adventure with a fireside embrace. Unforgettable views and cozy moments at the Tower Plaza!
The Magic of Christmas
Where: The Butchart Gardens
When: December 1 - January 6
Cost: Admission (Adult $38, Youth 13-17 $18.50, Children 5-12 $5)
Website: Learn More https://www.butchartgardens.com/christmas/
Christmas is a cheerful time of year at The Gardens. Bundle up and stroll through the Twelve Days of Christmas displays, sing along to the sounds of the season with Traditional Carollers or listen to the Festive Brass, then stop in at the Coffee Shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and gingerbread by the fire.
Gingerbread House Challenge
Where: North Saanich, Panorama Recreation
When: November 15 to January 5
Cost: $26 per house (family/friends entry) $55 per house (business entry)
Website: Learn More https://www.crd.bc.ca/about/events/event/2024/11/15/default-calendar/gingerbread-house-challenge
Pick up a gingerbread house kit from Panorama or Greenglade starting November 15 and decorate with your family, friends, teammates and co-workers! Deliver back to Panorama on December 1st to be displayed in our CFAX Santa’s Anonymous challenge. All proceeds support CFAX Santa’s Anonymous. Your completed creation will be left on display in the lobby over the month of December. The public will vote for their favourite creation, and the winners will receive a prize!
Cozy Christmas Food Tour
Where: 470 Belleville Street
When: Until December 31, 11:00am-1:00pm & 1:30-3:30pm
Cost: $80
Website: Learn More offtheeatentracktours.ca/cozy-christmas-food-tour
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive, family-friendly foodie tour that highlights the season’s tastiest treats. Indulge in decadent cheese, spiced nuts, rich chocolates, a savoury festive toasts, rare Italian Panettone, hot chocolate, and more. It's a celebration of all things delicious that will make your holiday season extra special!
Festival Of Trees
Where: The Bay Centre
When: November 15 to January 5
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.thebaycentre.ca/events/festival-of-trees
Explore over 90 trees spruced up and on display at the Bay Centre for the community to vote on and enjoy over the holidays.
Photos With Santa
Where: Patio Gardens
When: November 24 - December 14
Cost: $30/photo shoot
Website: Learn More www.tourismvictoria.com/events/photos-with-santa-patio-gardens
Bring your pets, kids, spouse, or the whole family and join us for a memorable seasonal photoshoot. Local Peninsula photographer Cassidy Nunn of Nunn Other Photography will be at Patio Gardens with Santa.
Santa at Mayfair: Capture the Holiday Magic
Where: Mayfair Mall
When: November 26 to December 24
Cost: $29
Website: Learn More www.mayfairshoppingcentre.com/m/santa-at-mayfair-snap-your-festive-photo
The magic of the holiday season is here, and we’re thrilled to announce that Santa Claus is coming to Mayfair! Whether you’re looking for the perfect Christmas photo or just want to share your wish list with Santa himself, this is the perfect way to celebrate the season. We’re thrilled to partner with the North Pole Picture Co. to offer a cozy, heartwarming Santa experience for Victoria families. From November 26th to December 24th, book your visit to our Mini North Pole and create special memories with Santa this season.
Breakfast With Santa
Where: Oak Bay Beach Hotel
When: December 8, 15, 22, and 23, 10:00am – 1:00pm
Cost: Adult $99, Child (4 to 12) $59 + Tax
Website: Learn More www.oakbaybeachhotel.com/event/breakfast-with-santa-6
Buffet brunch will include house-made cookie decorating, a visit from Mr. Claus himself, as well as on-site photo printing by Four Frames Photo Booth to bring the merry memories home. 2 to 8 guests per table, reservations required, pre-paid and booked online.
Santa at Westshore Town Centre 2024
Where: Westshore Town Centre
When: December 7 - 24
Cost: Starting at $31.99
Website: Learn More westshoretowncentre.com/events-promotions/santa2024
The North Pole is taking over Westshore Town Centre! Get ready for the best Santa & Christmas Photos in Victoria! With our beautiful cozy Christmas cabin set, the best Santas around, professional photographers with high quality studio lighting and high resolution digital files and prints of your memories!
Photos with Santa
Where: Esquimalt Rec Centre
When: December 14, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Cost: Donations
Website: Learn More www.esquimalt.ca/community-events/events-listing/calendar/photos-santa-2
Santa is popping into the Recreation Centre for some photo opportunities this year. Please bring your camera or smart phone to take your photo, or have our friendly staff take the photo for you. Registration is not required but donations for the Rainbow Kitchen are strongly encouraged.
Photos with Santa in Sidney
Where: Garden Court
When: December 14, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Cost: Free
Website: Learn More www.peninsulacelebrations.org/events/photos-with-santa
Get ready for some holiday fun! Join Santa in Sidney’s Winter Wonderland, located at Garden Court (2360 Beacon Avenue). Hosted by the Peninsula Celebrations Society, this festive event offers free photos with Santa—and pets are welcome too! Click for more information. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the magic. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the whole family (including your furry friends) to get into the holiday spirit!