Family Day Guide
Your Guide to Family-Friendly Fun in Victoria, BC
Whether you’re a local family looking for weekend plans or hosting out-of-town guests over the Family Day long weekend, Victoria offers a delightful blend of indoor amusements, outdoor adventures, special events and cultural experiences perfect for all ages. Family Day weekend falls from February 13-16, 2026.
CELEBRATIONS & SEASONAL EVENTS
Victoria at Dusk
February 13-15, 2026 from 5pm-9pm nightly
Explore downtown Victoria in a new light! This free, illuminated walking experience features light art installations, performance, storytelling and interactive activities, all set along a cozy, walkable route through the heart of the city.
Family Day Celebration at Esquimalt Recreation Centre
February 16 from 10am-1pm
Visit the Esquimalt Recreation Centre on February 16 for a wide range of family friendly activities! Enjoy face painting, a bouncy castle and kinder gym, arts and crafts and more! Also available are a free family swim from 11:00am-1:00pm, free family skate from 2:30pm-3:50pm and free music bingo from 2:30-4:30pm!
INDOOR FUN (RAIN-FRIENDLY!)
Victoria’s temperate winter weather means great indoor options when you want to stay warm and dry:
Get up close with bugs, arachnids and exotic critters, and even interact with some species.
A whimsical world of tiny scenes and intricate dioramas that kids of all ages will love exploring.
Engaging exhibits and IMAX films make this museum a long-lived winter favourite.
Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park
Let the kids bounce off energy with wall-to-wall trampolines and attractions.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES & SCENIC SPOTS
When the sky clears, bundle up and head outside:
One of Victoria’s most beloved green spaces, perfect for walks, playground time or spotting wildlife.
Colourful houseboats, playful seals and waterfront strolls for all ages. For extra fun, hop on a Victoria Harbour Ferry from in front of the Fairmont Empress Hotel and see Victoria from a new point of view!
For adventurous families, this elevated nature experience offers panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula and a unique forest walk; it’s often part of seasonal promotions during the weekend.
Victoria Hot Chocolate Festival
Victoria Hot Chocolate Festival runs through February, with local cafés and chocolatiers serving creative twists on the classic winter favourite — perfect as a sweet break between activities.
Tips for Families
- Keep an eye on community rec centres, many offer drop-in play, skating and family swim hours over Family Day weekend.
- Inner Harbour strolls and Chinatown can be fun walkers’ routes with historic charm.
- If weather’s cool and dry, enjoy a brisk walk along Dallas Rd or into Beacon Hill’s nature trails.
- Be sure to ask about our curated Family Fun trail, featuring family friendly activities and adventures all around Victoria!
Victoria’s February long weekend is full of magic, creativity, and active family time. From awe-inspiring night lights and cozy indoor adventures to energizing outdoor explorations, there’s truly something for every age and every family’s pace.