Holiday Magic in Victoria
Victoria transforms into a storybook of twinkling lights, coastal charm, and celebrations each holiday season. From cherished traditions to festive events, the city comes alive with a magic that captures the beauty of winter on the West Coast. Explore some of the season’s most beloved festivities and let the wonder of the holidays in Victoria unfold.
1. 43rd Annual Peninsula Co-Op Santa Claus Parade presented by Chek Media
November 29th
Returning for it’s 43rd year, the Annual Santa Claus parade kicks off the holiday season in Victoria! Celebrate all day long – starting with the Christmas Festival in Bastion Square from 11am-5pm with holiday treats, activities and photobooths! Then find the perfect viewing spot to watch over 3,000 participants flaunt their holiday cheer. Culminating in a visit from Santa and Mrs. Clause, the parade is the perfect way to start a West Coast holiday season. The route will move north along Government, east on Humboldt and North on Douglas where it will disperse at the Victoria Public Market. Road closures will begin downtown at 3:30pm for marshalling.
2. Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
December 1- January 6
Bundle up and explore the Twelve Days of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens! Stroll the gardens and discover each scene, to the sounds of Traditional Carollers and Festive Brass! Enjoy the dazzling light displays, and be sure to stop by the Coffee Shop to warm up after.
3. Festival of Trees at the Bay Centre
Now through December 31
Enjoy the iconic Festival of Trees at the Bay Centre all December long! Get your holiday shopping done as you take in a forest of Christmas trees, all festively decorated by local businesses. Vote for your favourite and give back to the Victoria community, supporting BC Children’s Hospital. Best of all, it’s free and open daily, and enjoy free parking after 4pm on weekdays!
4. Lights of Wonder a Centennial Square
November 29 through December 31
Kicking off after the Santa Claus Parade, this is downtown Victoria’s most photo-worth holiday event! Enjoy live entertainment on Friday & Saturday night, snap festive photos and of course, ride the iconic Ferris Wheel, opening December 19!
5. Harbour Holiday Light Up
Thursday December 4 at 5:00pm
The GVHA is lighting up the harbour again this year! Watch the Inner Harbour sparkle with dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, browse local vendors, and catch Santa’s arrival by boat at 6 p.m. A magical waterfront celebration that captures the spirit of the holidays in downtown Victoria.
6. IEOA Truck Parade & Food Drive
December 6 at 5:00pm, starting at Ogden Point
Now in it’s 27th year, this beloved tradition sees over 80 commercial trucks decked out and adorned with decorations and festive lights! Travelling through five municipalities for 35km, this parade sees dump trucks, fire trucks, coast guard vessels, military, transit and more weaving through the streets and spreading holiday cheer! Food bank donations are encouraged.
7. Habitat Victoria 17th Annual Gingerbread Showcase
November 21 – January 7
This iconic Victoria tradition, presented by Peninsula Co-Op and hosted at the Hotel Grand Pacific is a favourite for a reason! Professional and home bakers come together to build unique works of gingerbread art, interpreting the theme for each year. This year’s theme is “Homes For All”! Attendees are encouraged to vote for their favourite creation, and donate to support local families build a foundation through affordable homeownership.
8. Festive Horse & Carriage Rides with Tally-Ho
Select Dates & Locations
Wrap yourself in the magic of the season aboard Tally Ho’s horse-drawn carriage tours! From twinkling Inner Harbour lights to charming Saanichton village displays, the jingling bells and festive tunes set the scene for an unforgettable holiday ride. These classically Victorian excursions offer old-world charm with seasonal sparkle.
9. Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
December 3, 2025 through January 7, 2026
Experience holiday magic of days gone by at Craigdarroch Castle! Featuring period themed decor, holiday music and Victorian era traditions, the holidays at the Castle are truly a unique experience! Visit for a guided tour, self-guided tour or just to enjoy the beauty of a Victorian Christmas.
10. Messiah by Candlelight
December 14, 2025 at 2:30pm
Enjoy the beautiful 1776 oratorio by Handel in the candlelit setting of Victoria’s magnificent Christ Church Cathedral. Put on by the Victoria Symphony, take in the stunning architecture accented by flickering candlelight, as local choirs and four leading soloists share the story of the Messiah.
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Victoria offers countless ways to revel in the enchantment of the season. Whether wandering through illuminated gardens or taking in community celebrations, the city’s festive spirit shines brightly. Let these experiences inspire memorable moments throughout this magical time of year.