Things To Do In Victoria This September
As summer transitions into fall, Victoria comes alive with harvest celebrations, cultural festivals, culinary events and family-friendly fun. September is a particularly vibrant time of year to visit Vancouver Island, with warm days, crisp evenings, colourful gardens and a calendar full of experiences for every kind of traveller.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a weekend escape, here are some of the top September events and things to do in Victoria, B.C.
25th Annual Greek Fest
September 4–7 | Greek Community Hall
Celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Greece at this beloved annual festival. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, live music, traditional dance performances and a welcoming community atmosphere at the Greek Community Hall on Elk Lake Drive.
Victoria Classic Boat Festival
September 4–6 | Victoria Inner Harbour
Presented by the Maritime Museum of British Columbia, the Victoria Classic Boat Festival transforms the Inner Harbour into a showcase of beautifully restored vessels. Explore the docks, admire more than 100 classic boats and enjoy activities throughout the weekend, including the popular sail race.
Victoria Fringe Festival
Through September 6 | Various Venues
Now celebrating its 40th year, the Victoria Fringe Festival brings theatre, comedy, dance, spoken word, music and family performances to venues across downtown Victoria. Discover local and international artists while experiencing one of the city’s most creative annual events.
Labour Day Picnic
September 7 | Memorial Park, Esquimalt
Hosted by the Victoria Labour Council, this free, all-ages event features live entertainment, food trucks, family activities and community organizations. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the final long weekend of summer.
158th Annual Saanich Fair
September 5–7 | Saanich Fairgrounds
One of Vancouver Island’s most cherished traditions, the Saanich Fair celebrates agriculture, local food and the harvest season. Enjoy midway rides, livestock displays, competitions, exhibits and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
Esquimalt Ribfest
September 11–13 | Bullen Park
Bring your appetite to Esquimalt Ribfest, where talented pit masters serve up mouth-watering barbecue alongside local craft beverages and live music. Don’t forget to cast your vote in the People’s Choice Awards.
Little Fernwod Harvest Fun Fair
September 12 | Fernwood
Celebrate the arrival of fall at this charming neighbourhood event featuring outdoor games, harvest contests, workshops, crafts, live music and seasonal treats. Activities take place throughout Little Fernwood, Fernwood Square and Gower Park.
Culture Days
September 18–October 4 | Various Locations
Culture Days is a nationwide celebration of arts, culture and creativity, featuring workshops, performances and special events across Greater Victoria. From visual arts to live music and cultural demonstrations, there are countless ways to explore the city’s creative community.
Fall Fairfield
September 20 | Robert J. Porter Park & Fairfield Community Place
Celebrate the harvest season at this free community festival in the heart of Fairfield. Enjoy live music, local artisans, food vendors, family activities and performances while discovering the vibrant spirit of one of Victoria’s most loved neighbourhoods.
Brewery & the Beast
September 27 | Starlight Stadium
One of Vancouver Island’s premier culinary events, Brewery & the Beast brings together many of the region’s top chefs, restaurants and beverage producers for an unforgettable feast. Enjoy responsibly sourced dishes, local beverages and live entertainment in a lively outdoor setting.
South Island Powwow
September 30 | Royal Athletic Park
Held on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the South Island Powwow is a vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture featuring traditional song, dance, food and artisan vendors. Visitors are invited to learn, connect and celebrate alongside the community.
September Markets in Victoria
Moss Street Market
Saturdays, September 5–26 | 10 AM–2 PM | Fairfield
A Victoria favourite, Moss Street Market brings together local farmers, food producers, artisans, makers and musicians every Saturday. Browse fresh produce, handmade goods and local treats while enjoying live music in the heart of Fairfield.
James Bay Market
Saturdays, September 5–26 | 9 AM–3 PM | James Bay
Just a short walk from downtown, the James Bay Market is a great place to discover locally made goods, artisan products, food and more. Located at the corner of Menzies and Superior Streets, it’s an easy addition to a morning exploring the Inner Harbour and James Bay neighbourhood.
Ship Point Market
Saturdays & Sundays in September | Inner Harbour
Set along Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, Ship Point Market features local artists and makers selling unique, handcrafted goods. Take a stroll along the waterfront, browse the stalls and enjoy views of the harbour, the Empress and the BC Legislature.
Esquimalt Farmers Market
Thursdays, September 10–24 | 4:30–7 PM | Memorial Park
Make an evening of it at the Esquimalt Farmers Market, a food-focused community market featuring local producers, artisans, prepared food and live music. Pick up dinner from a food vendor, browse local goods and enjoy the park’s relaxed atmosphere.
Gorge Farmers Market
Mondays, September 14 & 21 | 4:30–7 PM | Esquimalt Gorge Park
Set beside the Gorge Waterway, this picturesque evening market offers local vendors, food trucks and live music. Bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxed evening by the water while browsing the market.
Plan Your September Getaway to Victoria
From harvest festivals and waterfront events to culinary celebrations and live performances, September is a wonderful time to experience Victoria, BC. Stay in the heart of downtown at Magnolia Hotel & Spa and discover many of these events just steps from your guest room.
After a day of exploring, unwind with a treatment at The Spa Magnolia or enjoy a seasonal meal at The Courtney Room, where the flavours of Vancouver Island are always on the menu.