May Long Weekend: Victoria Guide

It’s the unofficial start of summer, and Victoria is brimming with festivals, markets, and cultural celebrations, alongside some of the city’s best seasonal experiences. Whether you’re planning your days around signature events or looking to explore at your own pace, here’s how to make the most of the May long weekend in Victoria.

What’s On: May Long Weekend Events

Luxton Spring Fair

May 14–17 | Langford
Ease into the weekend with a touch of nostalgia. The Luxton Spring Fair brings midway rides, classic carnival games, and food trucks together for a relaxed, family-friendly outing just outside the city.

Victoria Highland Games

May 16–17 | Topaz Park
A Victoria tradition for over 160 years, the Highland Games are one of the weekend’s most anticipated events. From massed pipe bands and Highland dancing to international heavy events competitions, the energy is unmistakable—and uniquely Victoria.

Gordy Dodd’s One World Multicultural Festival

May 16 | Legislative Assembly of BC
Celebrate the diversity of the region through music, dance, art, and cuisine. This lively, inclusive festival offers a vibrant snapshot of the many cultures that shape the city.

Metchosin Spring Witches Market

May 16–17 | Metchosin
For something a little unexpected, this whimsical market blends handcrafted goods with folklore-inspired creativity. Set in a rural landscape, it’s a charming way to spend a spring afternoon.

Pacific NW Offshore International Yacht Race

May 16–17 | Victoria waterfront
Watch as dozens of yachts complete their offshore journey and race toward the finish line. Head to the coastline or Ogden Point Breakwater for front-row views of this striking maritime spectacle.

Orchard Market at Junction Orchard and Cidery

May 17 | 12–6 PM
A relaxed, community-driven market featuring local makers, food vendors, and small businesses. With cider flowing and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s an easy addition to your Sunday plans.

Victoria Day Parade

May 18 | From 9 AM | Downtown Victoria
A longstanding tradition and the largest parade of the year, this festive procession of floats, bands, and performers brings the long weekend to a celebratory close.

Ways to Experience Victoria This Weekend

Take in the View at Malahat SkyWalk

For those seeking something memorable, the SkyWalk introduces The Overhang this May, a glass-floored viewing platform extending out over the landscape. It’s an exhilarating way to take in sweeping views of the Juan de Fuca Strait, Salish Sea, and Finlayson Arm.

Wander Through Butchart Gardens

Spring is in full bloom, with vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils, rhododendrons, and more. It’s a classic Victoria experience, and especially beautiful this time of year.

Celebrate International Museum Day

Spend time exploring Victoria’s rich history and culture at institutions like the Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, or the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. From maritime history to fine art, there’s something for every interest.

• Royal BC Museum
• Craigdarroch Castle
• Maritime Museum of British Columbia
• Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
• Victoria Chinatown Museum
• Point Ellice House

Taste Your Way Through the City with Off the Eaten Track

Discover Victoria through its culinary scene on a guided walking food tour. It’s an engaging way to explore hidden gems while sampling the best of the local flavour.

Explore by Bike

Victoria is one of Canada’s most bikeable cities, with scenic routes that wind along the coastline and through lush parks. Take a leisurely ride and discover neighbourhoods, waterfront paths, and quiet corners at your own pace with Magnolia’s fleet of complimentary e-bikes and push bikes, also offered are a selection of curated bike trails!

Get Out into Nature

From easy strolls to more challenging hikes, the region offers something for every level:

• Goldstream Provincial Park – rainforest trails, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints
• Beacon Hill Park – manicured gardens, ocean views, and Garry oak meadows
• East Sooke Regional Park – rugged coastline and serene beaches overlooking the Olympic Mountains

Set Sail on a Tall Ship Adventure

Step aboard a heritage vessel like the Tall Ship Duen for a hands-on sailing experience. Learn about the region’s maritime history while taking in the coastal scenery! Also offered are sunset sails which are always especially memorable.

Picnic Along Dallas Road

With sweeping ocean views and plenty of open space, Dallas Road is an ideal setting for a relaxed afternoon picnic. On a clear day, you’ll see all the way to the Olympic Mountains.

Visit the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

A charming stop for all ages, the farm offers a chance to get up close with goats, alpacas, pigs, and more, an easy, lighthearted addition to a day in the park.

Explore Local Markets

Beyond the weekend’s featured events, Victoria’s markets are always worth seeking out. From farmers’ markets to artisan pop-ups, they offer a genuine glimpse into the region’s creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit.

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A Weekend Well Spent

Whether you’re here for the festivities or simply to soak in the coastal beauty, the May long weekend is one of the best times to experience Victoria. Pair signature events with unhurried exploration, and you’ll find a city that feels both vibrant and refreshingly laid-back, exactly as a long weekend should feel!